Xena and Alicia drew their stones, and both of them came out victorious. Their eyes lit up with excitement, and they exchanged a quick glance before exclaiming in unison, "Yes!"
"Looks like it's our turn to have some fun," Xena said, her grin widening as she stretched her arms above her head, loosening up.
Alicia cracked her knuckles, her eyes glinting with determination. "Let's make it quick, then. We've got a journey to enjoy." She gave Xena a playful wink, and the two of them stepped out of the carriage, ready for action.
The atmosphere outside was tense as the guards gathered in front of the carriage, their hands on their weapons. There were about ten guards traveling with them—experienced men who had proven their loyalty and skill. The bandits, however, seemed to have the advantage in numbers. There were at least fifty of them, all armed with mismatched weapons and standing in a rough semicircle, blocking the road.
