"Cavalry!" he called; his gaze steeled with purpose. "Apart from the scouts, split into three forces. The first hunt down any sign of the rebels in this region. I want no one left to slip away into the shadows."
"Aye, Your Majesty!" the officers responded in unison.
"The second force—clear the roads from here to Vlore. I want the reinforcements from Albanon escorted safely through these lands. No more surprises, no more delays."
"Aye, Your Majesty!"
"And finally," he continued, his voice growing sharper, "I want this atrocity recorded in full detail. The ashes, the ruins, the murdered innocents. Use our influence. Make sure the world knows what has happened here. And most importantly..." He paused, his eyes narrowing. "I want the Pope to know."
The officers saluted once more, swiftly dispersing to carry out their emperor's command.
And then, Leo turned to the one man he trusted above all others—his elder brother, Giovanni.
