The first four laws were received with relative calm.
Some goblins scratched their heads, a few orcs grunted in confusion, but for the most part, the crowd seemed to understand.
No killing each other, share resources, contribute to the city, and do not start fights with humans.
Simple enough.
But the fifth law sent a ripple through the crowd.
"Treason against Valdris is punishable by death," Sanovere read, his red eyes gleaming. "There will be no trial. There will be no appeal. The Lord's judgment is final."
The murmuring started immediately.
It was not loud enough to be called protest, but it was there, a low undercurrent of unease that spread through the gathered monsters like a cold wind.
And then, from the middle of the crowd, a voice rose above the rest.
"And who decides what counts as treason?"
Every head turned.
