"You will not perish, as long as there is an ounce of strength left in my body" Crask pledged. The figures were now mere metres away, and he extended his sword out from his body. "Halt..." he cried, in a harsh bark which echoed down the mountain. The figures below ceased their advance, and one amongst their number stepped forward, in the dark it was difficult to make him out, but he appeared to be a well-built man in his 30s. "This is none of your concern" the man shouted back "We come in protection of our village...and our lives. Now move aside!" Crask looked over to Jack with a grin, "A friend of yours?"