To cut to the conclusion, the citizen representatives who had entered Battalion Headquarters lasted about five minutes before saying, “That’s enough, we’re leaving.”

Well, of course. Surrounded by grim-faced men in pitch-black execution uniforms, all rushing about—three unarmed citizens would wilt instantly. In their shoes, I’d have said the same. Because it’s terrifying.

I would have liked to buy a bit more time, but better that than have the crowd outside turn into a mob. The important thing was that three of their own had gone inside and returned alive.

I escorted the nervous three back to the main gate.

“I showed them the inside of Battalion Headquarters. Ask them yourselves.”

The gate opened again, and the three were released. Immediately, the crowd swarmed them.

“Well, how was it?”
“Was it true there were prisoners inside?”