" Who's there? Show yourself!" Tallal cried out, eyes watching for any movement from the shadows of the trees flanking them.
There was the faintest sound of pebbles being crunched beneath horse hooves, and a dozen or so men emerged from behind the trees, sneering broadly as they circled them.
They were clad in dark clothes and fur, while their weapons varied. Tallal was concerned about the one with the crossbow.
By their appearance, one could deduce that they were outlaws or thugs. But something felt a bit off to Tallal.
Their leader, someone who wore the pelt of a grey wolf down his shoulders and his face bore the marks of many a fight, stepped forward atop his horse and looked down at the five soldiers.
" Step away from that chariot, and your life would be spared."
Tallal clicked his tongue as he saw they were outnumbered and quickly threw a dagger inside the carriage.
