C270 THE BANNER FELL INTO THE MUD

The torn banner lay in the mud.

Rainwater soaked the cloth. The symbol of the Blood-Fed throne was half buried under dirt and footprints.

No one moved.

Soldiers stared at it.

Villagers stared at it.

Even the Second Prince stood still for a moment.

Then he pointed at the banner.

“Pick it up.”

His voice was cold.

One soldier stepped forward slowly