The first light of dawn broke across the fields surrounding Komkana, spilling a pale gold over the smoke-streaked horizon.
Alexander surveyed the city from the ridge, his dark cloak rippling in the chill morning wind.
The siege had begun yesterday, and already Komkana's defenses showed cracks under the relentless pressure of Draco's army.
Fires smoldered along the outer walls, and the cries of the wounded echoed faintly through the streets.
Beside him, General Zena scanned the city with a keen eye.
"My lord, their eastern gate has been breached. The defenders are retreating toward the central keep. We must press forward before nightfall."
Alexander's gray eyes, sharp as polished steel, swept over the battlefield.
"No mercy," he said softly, though his voice carried across the ridge with chilling authority.
"Every man, every soldier, every coward hiding behind these walls—none shall survive to resist again. Komkana will remember Draco's justice."
