Hyresu, Guniya, Aatush and Avatstigorom gave chase, riding hard, the wizard was hurt and uncharacteristically grim, wanting revenge on Wyld Elleden.
As they traveled through an ominous canyon with mausoleums carved into the rock, an arrow sang out, spooking their mounts. A woman's voice issued from the darkness.
"Hold, Brightlanders. You don't look like easy prey, but there are many more of us and we have the advantage. Surrender your mounts and we'll allow you to leave."
Aatush raised her arm and walked forward carefully. "Come out, Agreppa, or I'll come in."
It was quiet a moment, then the dark woman strode out with confidence, muscles taut and ready. "Aatush, the wandering slayer. You've changed."
Aatush nodded tersely. "I wander no more, I have been redeemed. You could be, as well, if you'll aid us."
The marauder laughed and then sobered quickly. "You're serious. You'd what? Welcome my band into the lands of law and wealth, to be slaves?"
Hyresu spoke. "To be warriors."