He had cautioned his merry gang of miscreants from the heist.
There had never been a time when Severen could recall anything of value coming out of the mountains that wasn't precious metals; mostly just tradesfolk peddling wares.
What goods could one man on his lonesome be carting that would interest them?
Still, it had been a while since their last ride and he knew from experience ( and own disquietude ) that restless men were no good to anyone, so he had acquiesced to the little misadventure.
Four of them had rode down the wagon, traveler not putting up much of a fight, unseating the stranger and leaving him out on the side of the road.
Just as a bit of forethought, Severen had stayed back with Westin, figuring that if the wagon proved a bust, then they could at least get whatever paper the feller had on him.
Not an entirely wasted venture.
Or so he hoped.
As the two remaining members of the posse rode up on the stranded man, Westin unholstered his pistol, leveling it, catching a stern look from his leader who had to hide it fast.
Turning his attention to the stranger, Severen did his best attempt at casual innocence. It was neutral at best.
For one recently disavowed of his possessions, their new acquaintance did not seem too down in the mouth.
Severen felt there was something to his earlier hunch after all.
"Them boys? Maybe seen 'em around".
Westin's hand had a jitter to it that his fellow desperado felt discomfited by. No fear for the accosted man's life, more wariness if Westin should get squirrely on him.
"You'll have to forgive my friend here, bit jumpy on the draw, y'know how it gets out on the road".
Unhorsing to get on equal ground, Severen took visible account of @cohuta trying to size up what sort of encounter he was to expect.
One hand held the reins, the other hooking a thumb into his belt.
"I just can't help but wonder if it might mean anythin' to ya gettin' yer goods back?"
He flashed a toothy smile that did not reach his eyes.
In the back of his mind he was imagining the hole he was fixin' to put in the dunderheaded idiot who had come up with this goose chase.
