"Brr, why does it keep getting colder?"
"Yes, winter came a little early this year."
People streamed along the broad streets of Far-Sail Port City. Two city guards were walking down the road. They were bundled up, but after patrolling outside all morning, they still found the cold unbearable.
"This weather could freeze a man to death. Say, have you got any of that liquor you bought this morning left? Give me a sip."
It was noon, yet the sky was overcast, and the sun had not shown its face. A chill hung over the entire land.
One of the guards felt cold all over and could barely stand it. Catching sight of the little flask peeking out of his companion's pocket, he reached over to snatch it from the man's waist.
"Liquor? Didn't you just have some? It's gone, all gone! You're always drinking mine!" Seeing his companion reach for his flask, the other guard hurriedly protected it with one hand and pushed him away with the other, grumbling in displeasure.
"Hey, what's your problem?" The guard trying to steal a drink looked unhappily at his companion. "There must be some left, right? Come on, let me have a sip. Just one!"
As he spoke, he tried to grab it again, but his companion refused to give it up. The two began tussling on the street corner.
In truth, the two were good friends, and this tussle was merely friendly horseplay. But because they were wearing city guard uniforms, their antics attracted some attention.
"The soldiers here don't seem all that impressive either!" A carriage had stopped outside a nearby trading house. Its curtain was lifted high, and a boy inside was peering out.
Seeing the two soldiers tussling outside, the boy gave a quiet snort.
Several mounted men