"It is good to meet you, Basileios," says Keska, smiling. "Let me tell you more about the one I serve. Myrshala brings order and security to the Varrel Hills, but such things come at a price. To keep these roads safe, we ask for a toll from all who travel along them."
"Keska," you hear Vanya say as he brings his horse up alongside yours. "My sister of the Narrow River. You must have left us, what…four moons ago? I did not think to find you in the employ of some bandit chief."
"And what of our tribe?" replies Keska defiantly. "Was I not right? Was it not better to leave before the Black Wolves came for us? No matter—I have a new master now. One who will keep me safe." She glances at the caravan that stretches behind you. "Steppe horses are valuable, as we both know," she says. "If I were to bring a number of them to Myrshala, I am sure you would be allowed to pass through these hills in peace. Know also that my friends are watching us even now, and Myrshala's forces hold great sway over this region. I assure you that it would be folly to defy us."