Chapter 269 - 267
The first flaming projectile shattered against Almorr’s outer walls, exploding in a shower of stone, splinters, and fire.
Romanus siege engines, positioned at staggered intervals, roared to life, sending wave after wave of flaming ammunition into the city’s fortifications.
The defenders of Almorr—what remained of them—rushed to their stations, hurling javelins, rocks, and boiling oil down upon the advancing Romanus engineers, and legionaires.
But it was clear from the outset: this was not a battle they could win at best they could just make Romanus bleed greatly to take this city.
Yet, King Aled’s final decree had already been issued.
"If we cannot hold Almorr, we will make them bleed for every inch of our capital. Every man, woman, and child will rise to defend their homes. Romanus will find no meek submission within these walls."
The capital would die fighting, and they would make Romanus pay in the process.
~
The northwestern gate shuddered under the relentless pounding of Romanus battering rams. Reinforced with iron and wrapped in soaked hides to resist fire, the rams smashed through layer after layer of ancient wood and stone.
Berta stood at the head of the first assault wave, her polished armor gleaming with soot and grime.
The legionaries behind her stood silent, shields raised, eyes locked on the splintering gate.
With a final earth-shaking crash, the gate caved inward.