“You’ve heard?” said the blacksmith, eyeing their own bags.
Brokk nodded.
“We’re leaving town,” said the blacksmith. “My son, who’s been working in the armouries in the Restricted Zone, came home this morning, saying the Brathadair have taken over the Palace. He says riots have broken out and they were starting to get out of control. The Brathadair seem to be rounding up anyone who isn’t loyal to them. My son says they are forcing soldiers to make the choice between joining them or death. If you’ve had any connection to the Palace you’d be wise to get out of here while you can.”
Brokk nodded again. “Thank you and good luck.”
The blacksmith nodded, glancing furtively over his shoulder. “And you.”
He left quickly and quietly to rejoin his family. Branwyn watched them begin to make their
