A subterranean rumble shuddered through the valley floor, causing loose pebbles to dance across the dry dirt road.
At the western gorge entrance, six pillars of blackened volcanic ash erupted violently from the soil.
The necrotic pillars linked together in mid-air, weaving into towering ash frames that sealed the mountain pass with crackling gray miasma.
"The northern and western trails are completely blocked!" an outrider screamed, pointing toward the suffocating ash walls.
"The enemy activated the subterranean plugs before our final supply wagons could cross back into the valley!"
High upon a wooden siege tower half a mile south, Lord Dreth's voice blared through amplified brass mana horns.
"People of the Sixth Region, hear the generous decree of Duke Flint and your rightful provincial lords!" the voice echoed.
"Your false summoner brought ruin upon your valley by defying the imperial nobility and breaking royal trade monopolies!"
