Act II — Chapter 16
16
Once upon a time, there stood a mighty city of alabaster towers and golden spires. Envious of its majesty, a warlord from Byzantium cast his covetous eye upon it.
And so the city’s watchmen saw the dust of marching boots rise above the surrounding farmland. Temples and palaces trembled from the rumble of advancing footfall. Thousands of iron-helmed soldiers encircled the city. Trebuchets were erected upon hilltops, and battering rams hoisted to the gates. The Byzantine General called out a demand for unconditional surrender.
A city herald shouted to the invaders to go home and save themselves.
Many times had this city known war, but never had it fallen. Its marble walls were strong, but the city’s true defenses rested in a unique weapon: a corps of elite spies.
