The most important information the bandit had, was about Angulimaal and his men. They had travelled with Angulimaal’s band for a few days, but Harku and his men did not like their share of the loot. Besides, they found Angulimaal’s cruelty both unnecessary and revolting. “There is no reason to kill people that could be traded as slaves. I also steal people, but I don’t kill them for the pleasure of watching them die. This man is not right in the head.”

While Angulimaal’s band attacked a small settlement in the lower valley a weeks before, Harku and his men took off in the confusion of battle. They decided to remain in the area and see what they could carry off for themselves.

Angulimaal planned to attack Twisted Tree, that much was sure. “He is just practicing on the littler settlements. He means his warriors to be well seasoned before he gets to you. The news of the other village’s plight will already weaken your will to fight, he thinks.”

“The attack on your village will come soon. They were planning on attacking on the 11th day of the waxing moon, but maybe they will change their plans, knowing that we may sell our knowledge to you.”

“Be as prepared as you can be, Lady. Your people will need all the courage they can muster. And now, keep your bargain. Let me go. I must find my people, and return back to my village soon. I want no part in this fight.”