The battle with the trader... sorry, but that's how caravans go. Stop whining about battle times where field battles are concerned. Any kind of arrangement wouldn't work. Either the person would be out of range, reinforced, or would end up hiding somewhere until he/she can make another break for it. It can't be stopped. What happens when Person A wants to attack Person B, but Person B is at work, or asleep, and can't stop, or be gotten in touch with?
That being said... I believe Alligator. It's a shitty time. They acknowledge it. It's very possible that army was being sent in as a scout. Big enough to not get popped, but not geared enough for the attack. I'll give the benefit of the doubt on this one. One more thing to consider... 8 AM. Night time settings anyone? Just more food for thought.
