So did the villages all run away from the land they were in and build a new village outside the country in the Dragon Kings territory? That the solders following them and said even if you run away your still citizens of our country and obligated to pay your taxes no matter where you flee to? Is that the gist of it? If so, it may turn out the Dragon King might kick them off his land (the tax collectors) but keep the villagers because they are useful to making meals for him?
Nah, I'm over thinking. I bet the bad guys just run away from the manticore. Maybe they will show up as bad guys later but it's going to be a joke how quick they flee next chapter.