Maximillian's hooves hammered against the cobblestone as the entourage pushed onward toward Gerhard's mansion.
Just as they entered the wider main road, a deep, urgent bell tolled from the city's patrol tower. The group reined in at once at the sign.
The street erupted into motion. The guards rushed into formation, officers shouted orders, and citizens pulled back in alarm, giving way. Something serious had happened.
"I'll go check," Adam said, already anticipating Kyren's order.
The grand duke nodded sharply. If the danger involved the people, they needed to know immediately.
The admiral spurred his horse forward, cutting through the growing crowd towards the nearest patrol station. It wasn't long before he returned, his face pale beneath the grime of travel.
"Your Highness!" Adam called. "The eastern tower of Gerhard Mansion is on fire!"
"What?" The grand duke's voice broke with shock, his eyes widening.
"What happened?" Rafe, sharing the same surprise, demanded.
