Chapter 176
The morning sun broke over the hills, but there was no warmth in its light. A grey mist clung to the streets of the town, hanging low and still. The sound of hooves broke the silence. It came first like a whisper.
Then louder, heavier,rhythmic.
Clop. Clop. Clop.
Dozens of knights rode in, wearing the black and silver colors of the Veydrin Duchy. Their helms gleamed, and each one bore a sharp steel sword at their side. Behind them followed foot soldiers in rows, eyes scanning every shadow, every window, every rooftop.
This was no routine patrol. This was a purge.
Sir Helric, the lead knight, raised a gauntleted hand. The company came to a halt in the town square.
From the saddle, he turned to his squad commanders and barked orders, his voice sharp like metal on stone.
"You’ve heard of His Grace. The Serpent Gang has defiled this land. Every corner must be searched. Every door knocked. Every cellar and barn checked. If they’re hiding even under the rats, we’ll find them."
The commanders nodded and split off, leading their groups down the cobbled alleys, through market streets, into homes and taverns.
A notice was posted on the central board by a squire. It read:
[By the Command of His Grace Ruth of House Veydrin.The Serpent Gang is hereby declared enemies of the Duchy.Any man, woman, or child aiding them shall be punished by law.Anyone providing information will be rewarded with coin and protection.Their names will be burned from history.Their blood will be washed from our soil.]