soldiers in fear, the Sheheds tried not to draw attention to themselves, and the halflings vanished into the throng. Darius, however, focused on the cause of the earlier commotion. All four stared at Rex, who was waiting opposite them. They all reacted in an unusual way, at least for this place. The dwarf paled slightly, yet seemed to feel relief at their arrival. The two burly young men seemed surprised, but they did not appear at all shocked by the sight of the Guards. It soon became clear why – both saluted and froze to attention. So the victim’s friends are right here, thought Darius. A broad smile lit up the priest’s face, and words of thanks flowed from his lips. He was probably the only person who was glad to see the Guard squad today.
‘I am the owner of the Southern Star, sir.’ The dwarf took a few steps forward and bowed to the non-commissioned officer. ‘Kervet Stave, at your service.’ The innkeeper glanced uncertainly at Rex.
The corporal scanned the square, which was still thronged with a frightened crowd.
‘The show’s over!’ the non-commissioned officer raised his voice again. ‘Disperse!’
He didn’t need to repeat himself; one by one, the onlookers rushed towards the nearest clear passages. Amidst the shouts and hoots, the square emptied before their eyes. The travellers, who were clearly customers of the inn, hurried to the back of the building.
Darius gave the reins a gentle tug and Bellator set off. Right behind him came the tarians with heavily armoured men on their backs. The colonel had to admit that Rex really was cut out for the role of a strict non-commissioned officer and knew how to carry himself as such. It was therefore no surprise that his demeanour commanded such obedience.
‘Thank you, Corporal,’ said the earl as he stopped beside his deputy. He took another close look at the four men who had remained at the entrance to the inn. It seemed the Watchmen recognised Bleist’s insignia, for they turned pale. ‘You’ve had nothing but trouble of late, Mr Stave.’ He
