The nobles were markedly different from the merchants, arriving with strong guards and soldiers beside them. It was evident that they had coordinated their arrival, aiming to demonstrate a united front and indicate that they had formed an alliance. This was a clear message that they were not to be trifled with.
Grandpa William and Father John, observing from a distance, were not surprised by this show of force. They had anticipated such a move, knowing they would have done the same in a similar situation.
However, the nobles' major mistake was underestimating the Fletcher family's strength, assuming that their united front would intimidate them. Little did they realize that the Fletchers had no intention of being cowed by their combined power.
