It was still dark when the group started their journey. The donkeys were heavy with their loads of cheese and wine. The guards were easily distinguishable by the cudgels and knives, one even sported a sword. Most were past their prime and bearing scars, though whether from battle or taverna brawls Ӕgeus had no way of knowing. Korinthos was out of sight when dawn began to break. They were nearing the mountains. The passes were well worn as it was a route used by many. These passes were also the most dangerous. The close-forested sides of the paths afforded the perfect hiding place for the thieves and bandits that could swoop down with no warning, kill and plunder, then disappear back into the dense forests. Ӕgeus felt eyes upon him but the sight of the armed men deterred any attack. Bleache
