The storm hadn't ended - it only changed its form.

Messengers rode through mud and firelight.

Flags were raised in panic. Armories were opened.

The scent of war was in the wind.

In the Southern markets of RuthValis, the cries of merchants vanished.

A royal herald stood at the city gates, soaked in rain, shouting:

"By order of the King - all civilians are to return to their homes. No wolf, no child, no merchant shall remain in the streets till ...