THE CRYSTAL CLOCK

Leaving the horses at a safe distance, Glax regretted not having any firearms with him, just the good old gladius and his watches. He overheard conversations nearby, and hid behind a tree. 

Three guards walking at a distance from each other were talking among them. They were looking for fugitives.

Holding his breath as his restless mind worked fast, he wasted no time. As soon as the soldier searching the bushes passed him, the valosian rushed forward and plunged the gladius in his neck. The element of surprise was essential for Glax to take down the first opponent with minimal rustle. He hesitated before snatching the spear from the man, who writhed in front of him with his hand on his neck, trying to contain the blood spurting from it. 

He preferred not to be attacking imperial soldiers, but they were after his friend and his sister. The captain would not return until the next day.

How did this happen?