They marched down the street, past the cheers and cries of the crowd. Each man held their head up and stared forward. Their feet marched in time, with no hesitation. Items were flung in their path, but no one man paid any attention. They continue their climb up the street ever closer to the castle in the distance. It loomed large, imposing spires jutting from its peaks. Guards watched the procession's progress along the walkways until it reached the castle gate. The frontman called out, and the gate rose.

Continuing forward, the men passed the guards at the gate into the courtyard. Activity stopped as all watched the men walking to and through the castle’s front doors. People cleared the halls, hurrying from the march. Maids peaked out of doors, and whispers followed in their wake. The halls seemed to stretch until they finally reached two large doors. Guards on either side struck their spears on the floor twice, then opened the doors. Another crowd of people could be seen through them, separated on two sides. Leaving a path down the middle, all the way to a dias with a lone figure waiting.

The men stepped through the doors and walked past the people. Coming to an end, they dropped to their knees, with some having more grace than others. Heads bowed as they waited for the figure to speak.

“You have returned, my captain.” A soft but strong voice rang out.

“Yes, m’lady.”

“I take it that these are the men that have been spoken about throughout my country.”

‘Yes, m’lady.”

“I see very few men in front of me. I thought there would be more?”

“There were some looses, m’lady, and we thought it would be more prudent to bring only the leaders to you.

”

“That seems like a wise decision, but it leaves few to be seen. Well, we will have to bring the others here slowly.”

“Yes, m’lady.”

“Yes, I would hate to deprive my people of the spectacle of their deaths.” Whispers of excitement rippled through the crowd.

“As you decree, m’lady.”

“Yes, all is I wish it. Rise now so I may look at all of them.” Ropes were pulled, and five men were forced to their feet. Looking up, they saw the face of their condemner.

“It is said a queen is supposed to be merciful.” She sat tall on her throne, poised and regal. A smile spread across her lips. “But in this world, being Queen means blood.”