While Emmerich was speaking, Maximus was sizing up Gowes: He wasn't tall, but his body was strong, with prominently bulging muscles. Unlike the Scodisqi slaves he had seen before, who looked thin due to not being fed well by the Segestica people, his features were hard, and there was a determination in his eyes...
"Gowes." Maximus warmly extended his right hand, smiling as he said, "You are a capable person. Welcome to the Nix Tribe! I believe you will surely—"
"Leader Maximus." Gowes looked directly at the young leader before him and said solemnly, "I've heard you are a generous and kind leader. I have a request, and I hope you will agree!"
No one had interrupted him so rudely for a long time. Maximus felt displeased, but he suppressed it and asked with an unwavering smile, "What is your request?"
"We are not prepared to join your tribe." Gowes stated forcefully, "We hope you will allow us to leave here!"
