Granth nodded at Xalmann, then turned his attention to Mariana, shaking his head at her.

"Maybe you can run off on a whim, but you ain't in charge of feeding a whole camp of men, are you?" the archer retorted plainly, turning away from the scene and slowly heading off after Boris. "That treasure turns out to be fake and I'll have wasted a lot of men's time. Better, more real money to be made doing what I'm doing."

Of course, there was another reason Granth wasn't about to go chasing after buried secrets, unspoken though it was. He wasn't entirely without obligation. The Bandit King had debts of his own, and he knew better than not to pay them. Leaving while not upholding his promises would be... unwise. It was far better to focus on guaranteed, incremental methods of success rather than boldly chasing a reward that might not even exist.

"We will be taking the big ball," Granth said firmly as he left. "And the weapons from the dead men, of course. Anything else is for you to do with as you please."

And that was that. Granth wasted no more time speaking with the others. Red knew he'd always be welcome, and Granth didn't exactly feel he owed Mariana any further explanation. As far as Granth was concerned, his part in the affair was over.

Mariana let out a frustrated sigh as Boris and Granth shouldered past her. They weren't really the type to get excited over buried treasure lest it lie in the purse of some traveller. It was sad to be losing such good help, but Xalmann and her could handle themselves. If he was at least willing to look for the treasure they should be able to manage with at least one other companion.

"Granth, Boris... Stay alive until we meet again, and maybe then we can have a true fight? No hostages involved?" She gave them a conflicted smile. These bandits had taken her emotions on a trip during their time together.

She looked back to Xalmann again with a confident smile. Having grown to respect the Lizardman for his bravery and skill in combat she had no doubt his word was worth taking. They would be treasure hunters together, at least for the foreseeable future.

"I will, Xalmann, and I have no doubt we'll find something better than a big rock at the end of this trail..." She gave him another bow, this one was serious and respectful.

"I look forward to working with you. Now, I happen to know a place with a great many men and women who'd love a chance to look over those tablets. Follow me." She waved him along with a nod of her head.

The two of them headed off, avoiding the bandit camps, and leaving the spider canopy behind. Good riddance, she thought.

[End Thread]