The captives were soon bound and ready for escort back to Belokurikha.
I however, had to travel in the opposite direction now that the way was clear.
It was time to fetch Recoil and the Ovcharka.
I explained my plans to the lieutenant, who grabbed me in a bear hug.
Thank-you Vladimir - this ambush could have done us through.
Vladimir you went out of your way to help the riders. - we will remember our debt.
We'll be at Belokurikha for a couple more days to rest up and deal with them - he gestured at the captives. So meet us there and if you are headed to Novosibirsk, if we have a shared direction - then he swung up onto his horse.
And I departed running on foot to re-join Recoil.
(editing to follow)