When the bandits left behind the foundry, which they had turned into their fortress away from the freezing death that awaited them outside in the long winter. They also left behind their slaves.
Women, girls, and the occasional man here and there that the bandits found to their liking were often taken as a form of tribute when other resources couldn't be paid.
These slaves had for the first time since their capture been left utterly alone in the foundry. They didn't know why nobody ever told them everything.
But they also didn't dare leave. They huddled near the heat of the forges and whispered among each other in silence.
"Do you think they're all dead?"
One of the women asked, looking around first to ensure that nobody was nearby to hear it before daring to do so.
Another was quick to interject, her tone hushed and fearful.
"Don't even think that! If they find out you are wishing ill upon them, they'll do horrible things to you!"
