Riders galloped through the central road of Florium, hooves drumming against cobbled stone like a herald's war drum, their voices cutting through the morning hum of the city.
"The Royal Army is here!" they cried, eyes wild with triumph. "His Grace, Prince Alpheo, has come to bless Florium with his presence!"
The shouts flew like sparks in dry grass, igniting the streets with sudden life as the various citizens of Florium went to witness the latest novelty.
And then—like a thundercloud cresting the hills—the Royal Army arrived in all its glory.