An ominous thunderstorm was raging, and the earth trembled as forked lightning split open the sky. The downpour went on for most of the day now, and during this fair summer time it seemed almost like an ill omen, a portent for what seemed to be stirring in the south. The rumours of another invasion were spreading like wildfire amongst the city guard and recently, in many a tavern the conversations were heavy with the tone of fear and despair, instead of the usual laughter and merriment. "Brothers and sisters, the time has come to ride out as one. We are going to war."