[East part of the Summerfield Duchy - Sia's POV]
[Hours before Sia called Archer for help]
Sia, accompanied by her father and five hundred soldiers, journeyed eastward to quell a group of bandits wreaking havoc in the region.
They had been a menace to the eastern part of the Duchy, launching attacks on merchants and travelers en route to Whillowshade City for trade.
She rode atop Shiva as they approached the bridge spanning the dark waters of the Black River.
Sia noticed the dense foliage of the jungle surrounding them seemed alive as they marched through it.
A scout returned with news as they reached the middle of the bridge. Sia reined in Shiva, and the large tiger stopped, its powerful muscles tensing beneath her.
The scout reported, "No signs of attacks, Commander. It seems safe for now. We should set up camp here."
