The leader sneered. "Own? Kid, in this war, you're only 'your own' as long as you're useful. And right now, you're most useful as a distraction. Nothing personal, just the way things are."
Another veteran stepped closer, reaching out a hand towards Ye Yang's shoulder. "Come on now, don't make this hard. Just stand over there by that big tree and start yelling'. We'll owe you one. Or... well, your sacrifice will be appreciated by the Kingdom."
"Get your hand off me," Ye Yang said, his voice still quiet, but carrying an undeniable edge.
The veteran paused, sensing something was off. "Or what, greenhorn? You going to fight us? Five against one? Don't be stupid."
"I'm not going to be bait," Ye Yang stated clearly. "And I'm not letting you leave to try and do this to someone else."
The veterans exchanged looks, then burst into harsh laughter. "Listen to the kid!" the leader roared.
