The faces of the Centurion and the Steward grew increasingly grim.
The Deputy Officer furrowed his brow and temporarily handed over command to the drummer. He stepped forward to his superior's side, joining the negotiations.
Just when conflict was about to erupt, the door to the main house suddenly opened, and a figure appeared in the shadows elongated by the setting sun.
"What are you doing?"
Upon hearing the voice from behind, the servants at the manor's entrance displayed visible fear. Especially the Steward, who hastily turned around, bowing his head in trepidation.
"Madam."
It was the Baroness, dressed in a gray-white gown, her shoulders draped with a thin shawl, and an unusually calm gaze.
She was followed by several children, looking timid, holding each other's hands tightly.
Like the children of commoners, some were frightened, some were strong, and some were too young to understand what was happening and curiously glanced around.
