Ambush

In the early winter night, the howling north wind slipped through their clothes, stealing away what little warmth they had.

The soldiers on night watch in Black Pine Town tightened their collars and shifted closer to the brazier. They never opened their eyes throughout the whole process.

A few days earlier, they had received word that a band of northern Plunderers was heading this way, and everyone had been on edge.

Yesterday, they received good news: the band had taken the main road nearby around the town. Their target wasn't here.

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief. The soldiers, who had worked hard for days, let their guard down and got some proper rest.

A carrion crow swept across the night sky, circled the walls twice, then landed atop the church bell tower.

Several groups of dark figures crept silently up to the walls. Their fur-wrapped grappling hooks made not a sound as they caught on the parapet.

There was a brazier here. Somehow, the strong wind had blown it out, leaving the charcoal as cold as the night.

The areas beyond the firelight quickly filled with people, while the soldiers on the walls continued sleeping soundly.

Warm blood sprayed across cold axe blades. Fire arrows streaked across the night like meteors. The gates were opened, and the watchtowers on the walls became torches, illuminating the entire town.

Black Egg led the bravest warriors through the gates and straight toward the little castle in the town center. The town's lord was bound to have the greatest wealth.

The other bandits smashed open the doors along the streets, pierced their owners' skin with sharp blades, and seized their bloodstained valuables.

Firelight illuminated the crows' wings. Screams mingled with the rumble of collapsing rooftops, choking smoke filled the night sky, and vicious