The group looked travel-worn, their faces etched with the fatigue of a long, bumpy journey.
After cautiously surveying the area, the bushy-bearded man took out a bone whistle and blew a specific rhythm.
The whistle's call echoed through the ravine.
A moment later, a sinister voice drifted from the shadows of a corner. "Hyena, why are you a full day late? Have you forgotten the rules?"
As the voice faded, a man wearing leather armor under a wide cloak stepped out of the shadows.
Five or six underlings followed behind him.
They moved with a semblance of casualness, but their steps were steady, hinting at the disciplined air of soldiers or guards disguised as adventurers.
The bushy-bearded man hurriedly bowed and scraped, forcing a fearful yet fawning smile. "Lord Blood Eye, please calm your anger. We had the misfortune of running into a small band of Tidal Fishmen yesterday."
