The guards regarded the group with mirthless grins.  After a moment, the eldest spoke, almost in a bark.  "Well, we can't be holding the gate open all day, ya know.  Are you in or are you out?"  He gestured impatiently to the opening.  In a lower voice, a younger guard said to Arindalise and Atrius, "sometimes the beasties can hear the gate being opened.  Sooner you're on your way, the less likely it is they'll ambush you."