The first clash did not begin at Count Aweq's castle.
It began on the walls of Lupos.
Dawn paladins stood beside the city garrison at every gate, their golden armor reflecting the light of hundreds of torches. For nearly an hour, neither side had drawn a weapon. They simply watched one another, waiting to see who would make the first move.
Below them, the streets were filled with confusion.
Civilians were driven away from the castle district while merchants hurried to close their shops. Families crowded the roads leading toward the outer quarters, carrying whatever belongings they could hold.
Above them, Church bells continued to ring.
At the northern gate, the garrison commander stared at the sealed decree in his hands.
Count Aweq's name stood clearly beneath the mark of heresy.
Any soldier who continued serving him would be judged an accomplice. Any officer who raised a weapon in his defense would be condemned alongside him.
