"You may be reserves, but you aren't fully soldiers yet," Lord Lance proclaimed. "However, while the death penalty can be avoided, the punishment for your crimes cannot. All of you are to be sent to the farm for three years of hard labor. Your status may be restored based on your performance."
Lance announced the resolution; he had no intention of letting these freeloaders, who had consumed his supplies for so many days, off easily. The farm was in need of labor, and over the next three years, they would have to work off everything they had consumed, in addition to having their full value extracted.
Yet, the men dared not show any dissatisfaction. Some even felt fortunate they weren't being beheaded.
"Vick, hang the head in the square for ten days and post a notice explaining the situation."
"Yes!" Vick replied. Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward to pick up the head, fighting his discomfort as he left the area.
