Chapter 331: Bandits

As a person who grew up foraging and hunting in the forest, Oriana's senses were no less than a knight's. She could sense the movement of people with hostile intentions approaching their group. 

"Come out, and stop hiding like cowards!" Rafal shouted in provocation. 

No one emerged from the trees, but a man's rough voice responded from the shadows, "Leave all your belongings here and you can go on your merry way."

"You wish," Rafal sneered as he brandished his sword. "You fools dare target the Crown Prince of Griven? If you wish to keep your lives, I suggest you turn back and let us cross  unharmed. Otherwise, I can't guarantee how many of you can make it alive."

There was a stretch of tense silence, broken by a flying dagger shot in Rafal's direction. 

Swish!

In the darkness, only a few sharp-eyed knights caught the glimmer of the blade, but it was too late for them to react to the sneak attack.