The muscular knight, now quivering with rage in response to the bandit's threats, opened his mouth to respond. What came out was a muffled "[i]ayergghhnnf[/i]...", as the thunderous man stumbled over his words, before quickly shutting his mouth again.

	Stonehelm, as thick-headed as he was, knew he couldn't fend off a virtual army of bloodthirsty bandits all by himself, and he had no command over the others. Taking the young mage's 'words' into consideration, as well as the tenacity of the bandit leader, the ferocious soldier paused. Every reflex in his brain told him to draw his sword, and behead the bandit leader while he was close, but he held himself together.

	Stiff as a statue, Tilson turned his head to the female mage. She seemed to be the presumptive leader of the group, so the decision would have to be hers. The veteran locked his eyes on her like an attack-dog waiting for a signal, biting down on his tongue until he could taste blood.