The westerly winds howled, men shouted, horses neighed, and rigid-stepping militia and wagons laden with supplies poured into the small Saint Town from all western directions.
It was as if a gigantic vortex existed invisibly among them, gathering all the manpower and material resources of Iron Peak County into this place.
There was no doubt that the church of the Saint Town Monastery sat at the very center of the vortex.
A statue of the Virgin with eyes cast downward stood above the church's main entrance, silently watching people with swords come and go.
"Lieutenant Bard, the village chief of Bai'niu Village in Little Stone Town says the portion of dry food issued to them is not enough."
"Their ration was increased yesterday."
"He says it's still not enough..."
"Sergeant Roland!"
"Present!"
"Take the roster and the provosts to Bai'niu Village's station and check their numbers."
"Yes!"
