Nervous Laughter

Jake, who had been treating the early stages of the Ordeal like a leisurely stroll, felt his mood shift in the blink of an eye. More than just anger, he seemed restless, a glint of worry flashing fleetingly in his eyes before being stamped out by sheer force of will - and fury.

The inhuman growl that escaped his clenched teeth sent shivers down the spines of the two barbarians nearby. The sound was so deep that they could even feel their bones quiver. When the shaman and the officer exchanged anxious glances, their expressions were mirror images of shocked bewilderment.

'What the heck did we do wrong this time?' Both barbarians thought simultaneously, not daring to voice their burning question aloud.

Just when they began fearing that the foreigner would lash out in rage, Jake returned to his usual composure. However, the sharp edge of menace still danced within the depths of his eyes.