The sun slowly sank toward the horizon. Andrew lay prone behind a low, unremarkable ridge and remained still. He was waiting for full darkness to fall, because only then would it be easier to move.

From his position, he could barely see the town gate and most of the settlement beyond it.

It was deathly silent, with not a single sound to be heard. Thin smoke still lingered over one corner of the town, as if the fires there had only just burned out.

Andrew's heart was as still as his gaze, calm and without the slightest ripple. Without stepping inside to confirm it himself, he already knew what had happened to this town where fellow Holtriens had lived.

If he had felt pain when he first sensed it, then now even that pain was gone. All that remained was absolute calm, and beneath that calm was a killing intent ready to erupt at any time.

Blood debts had to be repaid with blood.

Andrew drank the remaining half-bottle of liquor Louie had given him. Although he had already done somethi