Outside the manor gates, the soldiers stood, swords drawn, awaiting orders from within. The tension between the two factions was palpable. On one side, men barely able to stand, hands and feet trembling. On the other, the Cheonryeo, casually chewing on gurut leaves as they waited.
Creeeak.
The gates opened. The soldiers parted, allowing the outsiders entry.
"Only Ian and the Chieftain may enter!"
"Only us?"
"How generous," a Cheonryeo warrior scoffed, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
"..."
The soldier was from Bariel's central army, and these were barbarians from the fringes. His attitude was expected, but the warrior was deliberately provoking him.
The other Cheonryeo warriors chuckled, joining in. It was an intimidating display, but this time, Ian didn't intervene.
"Allow us our guards," Ian said calmly.
"That is not permitted."
"Are you the captain? The commander?"
"...The orders have already come down."
