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Byzantium explored the idea of amphibious assaults in its last war against Mali. Or, rather, Mali launched endless river raids against Byzantine encampments. The resulting massacres have probably shaped Stralchus's thoughts about battle. You explain what the ships might be able to do, and the net-makers get to work. They have nothing that will stop the ships themselves, but they can entangle marines, if it comes to that. The other villagers visibly relax when you explain your plan.

The ship carrying the herald glides to a halt, and its triangular sails fold up like a courtier's fan. You think you see something on the far side of the river, perhaps reinforcements, but then the herald raises his voice.

"Chief Kothis!" the herald shouts. "I come bearing tidings from Stralchus, ruler of the Great Ziggurat!"

"We do not wish to join you in toiling upon the Ziggurat," Chief Kothis shouts back. Most of the villagers shout their agreement, though you think some would abandon the River People for the moral clarity Stralchus offers. "Go away. Return to your master with my answer while you still can."

"I'm not here for that," the herald says. "I'm here to tell you the truth that Stralchus has uncovered." He clears his throat. "The False Icon created this world, but the truth is he cannot sustain it. You have seen the gray mountain grow brighter in the sky.

"It is not growing brighter. It is growing closer. The False Icon is falling, and soon it will fall upon this world and destroy everything!"

The River People shout in surprise, alarm, disbelief. Kothis waves them silent, but he's quickly losing control of the villagers.

"It's just a trick," Alexius says, looking up at the gray mountain. "Every leader like Stralchus needs to give his people something to fear."

"The herald's explanation would explain certain observations I have made," Control mutters.

"We can't worry about that now!" Vecla says. She turns to you. "Do something, Crowchar, before people start wandering onto those ships!"

A few villagers are discussing the possibility that only Stralchus can save them.

"Stralchus has followers and resources," Therko reminds you. "We cannot trust him, but we also cannot fight him."

Chief Kothis tries to get the attention of his people, but he has no luck. As two ships glide ever closer and one beaches itself almost within bowshot of the village, ready to disgorge troops, you realize you'll have to intervene.