The moon showed only one of its halves, but it was still light enough to see the outlines of the endless plain that led to the city. The white lady was shy, but there were no clouds to hide behind tonight. She showed them a group of riders long before they could hear them.

“We should hide.” - Ogi said.

Ogi knew that riders at night were not a good omen, but Jassen and his band didn’t seem worried. Not one bit. Jassen chewed on while Ogi thought about how he’d hide his mare. But they were on an open field, freshly sowed plants as far as the eye could see. The riders appeared to be following the road so they would pass right by them.

“Olena, what banner?” - Jassen asked.

“Rhana.” - she answered with narrow eyes, focusing on the riders.

Jassen untied Dreamer from his horse and carried it sheathed.

“Don’t you worry, Ogi. The night is too hot. I need the coolness of the steel.” - Jassen said and turned his attention back to the meat as speartips approached them.

“Good evening!” - the soldier at the head of the column yelled as the riders approached - “Where to in this late hour, friends?”

“We’re headed to Dunau. My friends here have never been to the river.” - Ogi said before his companions had the chance to open their mouths. The less attention they brought on themselves, the better.

“Ogi, is that you? Ah, I took you for highwaymen, out at night with swords.” - he nodded to Dreamer in Jassen’s hand.

“Doesn’t hurt to have a steel at hand. Not that we are afraid, we know you’re guarding the roads.” - the blacksmith continued.

“Yeah, we are. Is that so, boys?” - he yelled, and the other five riders cheered.

“You see, Ogi, it’s a rough job to patrol the roads at night.” - the leader continued and leaned forward in his saddle - “Swinging the blacksmith’s hammer ain’t easy but at least you get the warmth of the forge. We know only darkness, friend. When you lay down your tools, we pick up ours.” - he put his hand on the hilt of the sword.

“Tough job for tough men. But everyone in the plains is thankful for your service.” - Ogi answered.

“This is what feeds our souls each night, but our bellies remain empty. You’d think we’re well off, but we’re one step above the beggars in Rhana. You think you and your friend can spare something for our help, Ogi?”

It was about time we got to this, Ogi thought. Maybe he shouldn’t have left his new friend’s fat purse at home. It could’ve been handy right now.

“I can spare some food if you’re hungry.” - Jassen beat Ogi to it this time.

“I was thinking of something more dry and cold, like metal. Preferably gold.” - the guard said.

“Oof, very poor choice of words.” - Niko said from behind.