Luke would not have to look hard. The trees seemed to shiver with an unseen wind as dozens of masked bandits came into view. Most were on foot but three, assumed the leaders, were riding horses. The villagers drew away, mothers pulling children into homes or carrying them out of the fields. "Drop your weapon stranger." The other raiders began to rush the village, taking anything they could grab; food, clothing, tools.

Four dashed through the trees. How idiotic! A band that small patrolling the trails? There was no way that would have been all of them. They were simple a reconnaissance party. which meant that the real danger would be back at the village and fields. A brief check was all he gave to ensure himself that his older was behind him before diving head long into the village. He could see Luke easily (what did the man have in his hand?) but no trace of Trace.