Return of the Crimson Guard/Chapter 13

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==Wickan Plains==
Nil and Nether have become aware of the confrontation in Li Heng. They decide to intervene on the Malazan side. The Malazans would then be indebted to them, and the price will be their sovereignty. They take a thousand veteran riders, and Rillish; and as the normal Warrens have guardians who might intervene, they intend to travel through the Abyss itself.
==Li Heng==
Hurl, Rell, and Liss have left Li Heng and go to the battlefield. They expect Ryllandaras to be attracted by the bloodshed and intend to attack him.
Kyle's party are being led through the Shadow Warren. Jan admits that he is in fact Duke K'azz. Edgewalker intervenes to expel them from Shadow; they find themselves in Quon Tali, not far from the battlefield. K'azz contacts the Brethren and expels Skinner from the company.
The Crimson Guard divides into two parties: those loyal to K'azz, and Skinner's followers. The latter continue to attack the Malazan remaining position, but are routed by the Wickan cavalry who suddenly arrive on the field. Skinner remains and is attacked by two previous members of Dassem Ultor's bodyguard. They are suddenly joined by someone who appears to be Dassem Ultor himself; he eventually wounds Skinner and forces him to withdraw. The mysterious swordsman then disappears again.
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