Dozens of columns of thick smoke rose outside Bonan City, with flames flickering within them.
Sanguse, lord of Bonan City, stood erect on the city wall in heavy knight's armor, his face grim with grief and anger.
These were the signs of burning villages. Wagon after wagon could be seen moving behind the army, while large numbers of subjects were driven away into the distance.
The people inside the city were already showing signs of panic.
On the plain outside the city, three thousand enemies waited for their opportunity, their murderous intent filling the air.
Sanguse roared, "You despicable scum! You don't dare attack the city, so you burn our villages and drive away our villagers!"
The Salante Fief had attacked swiftly. Even though Sanguse had issued orders immediately, he had only managed to evacuate a small portion of the population. Two-thirds of the villages outside the city had fallen into enemy hands.
After his roar, Sanguse swept his gaze over those beside him and said, "I am a descendant of Sayo, the Sea God. Twelve generations of our line have served as city lord. Alas, during the civil strife back then, that traitor Sennasai usurped the throne. I hoped to restore our fortunes through this city, only to encounter this calamity. But I will die fighting before I surrender!"
"We will die for the god Sayo!" those around him thundered, resolved to fight to the death.
Just then, a thunderous boom erupted in the sky. Brilliant golden light filled the heavens, and only as it drew closer did they see a golden dragon swooping toward them.
Before he even arrived, everyone had raised their heads.
An immense power descended from the heavens, its profound terror pressing down over the small city at once.
A clear, resonant cry rang out,