The bandit who was about to swing his sword did not even know when his hands had been cut off.
He stared at his bare shoulder, unbelieving. The cut was so clean that his mind could not register it at first. Blood spilled only a moment later, bursting out like a fountain.
Then his scream tore apart the night.
"KYAAAA!"
"AAAHHHHHH!"
"MY HANDSSSSS!"
He fell to the ground and rolled helplessly. Dirt mixed with blood as he writhed and kicked like a dying animal.
The remaining bandits froze. Their weapons shook.Then they saw them.
Knights.
Shining helmets. Silver plates. Cape flowing like storm clouds.
Their presence alone made the forest air heavy.
An oppressive feeling crushed the bandits' courage.
One knight stepped forward.
"I am Richard, Captain of the 2nd Unit of Blade of Eternal Orders of Blanks."
"Your protection will be our responsibility."
His voice was deep and steady. It carried no hesitation.
"Men, untie the people."
