Bounty hunters

Tor was arranging rocks on the road when suddenly Chromos shouted, "Men approaching from the south!"

Immediately Elm moved into action. "Pepper, Tor, be ready to attack from hiding." The werewolf grabbed his stony hand and pulled him over to a large rock on the roadside, where the two ducked behind it. She nodded, then turned to the kitsune. "Kennedy, start summoning fire sprites and have them scan the area for any more." He nodded and his hands began working. Turning her head towards Chromos, she asked, "Any signs of magic?"

The automaton shook his head. "None, Elm. It's strange."

She strode up the road, mind turning as she walked to the south. Chro was right- it was strange. She pulled out her sword, ready to face down any number of threats.

The truth revealed itself clearly as she saw the small group of hunters approaching. They had overconfident grins on their faces, like they couldn't be hurt.

She would prove them wrong.

"Who are you?" Elm tossed her head, steely green eyes pinning them down.

Still not realizing their mistake, the leader said, "We're here to collect yer group's bounty."

She raised an eyebrow. "Is that so?" Walking up to them, she pointed her sword at the leader's throat. "Leave, now, and I will spare your lives."