Sir Spello furrowed his thick brows deeply as he gazed at the distant carriage traversing the rugged path below. His frown grew deeper, not just because of the sun in his eyes, but also due to the out-of-place presence of that fancy, intricately designed carriage in this countryside backdrop. 0

Every part of the large, sturdy-looking vehicle was remarkable, from the gleaming silver armor of the two white horses to the burly, brown-skinned coachman and the heavily armored beastfolk beside him. Even their timing was suspicious, considering this wasn't even the usual route to Tessen.0

"What should we do? Shall we inspect them first?"0

The question came from the lieutenant at his side, breaking the silence. It was just the two of them there, mounted on their horses atop the hill overlooking the road.0

Spello nodded thoughtfully. The lieutenant, catching the signal, nudged his horse forward a step. His face displayed anxiety, mirroring the tension Spello felt, knowing the carriage below was not an ordinary traveler.0

"Stop the carriage and identify yourselves!"0

The lieutenant's command rang out sharply and commanding.0

"This land is under the stewardship of Duke Kralen! If you do not comply with the procedures, you shall not pass!"0

Yet, the carriage did not halt. It merely reduced its pace as it continued its climb....0