Much preparation had gone into this night’s work. Reconnaissance parties had been sent out, propagandists, had been stirring the enemy, Newspapers had incessantly told the village folk that they were in good shape both financially and spiritually, and that there were plentiful years ahead.  Any opposition was quickly silenced as the Preparers formed and shaped the thoughts and hearts of the people of yet another village.  Without a word, silent gestures started the invaders moving towards the unsuspecting village.

The armored riders slipped quietly into the township, riding down the main street, without disturbing the villagers who slept peacefully in their houses.  They fanned out, and as the troops moved further into the village they spread out quickly and stealthily, occupying offensive postures, peeling off and taking up prearranged positions in different parts of the town.  With a silent signal each commander steered his section of warriors away and moved the disciplined team into hiding, for zero hour.  The wrapped hooves of the horses ensured that no telltale noises were heard as they took up their places.  Hidden all around the Village Square, the soldiers whose obviously rehearsed maneuvers were serving them well had quickly and silently occupied the entire community. 

Finally, with the mounted forces in place, the infantry surrounded the empty marketplace to cut off any retreats.  Thus the town hall was now covered, and each of the streets had some mounted warriors and a troop of infantry assigned to it.

When he was satisfied that all their plans were proceeding to order, the commander checked his own plans before letting out a piercing cry, splitting the night and spurring the silent army into action.  Horses reared up and whinnied loudly, while mounted cavalry charged at houses with lighted torches.  They flung them onto tinder dry thatched roofs, which were fully engulfed and ablaze in no time.  Villagers began appearing in doorways, confused at first, then fear and terror as they began realizing what was happening, but also by then, that it was too late.  Mothers took their children by the hands, trying to run off with them, but it seemed useless as they were all inevitably rounded up and herded into captive compounds.  The villagers didn’t know who or what they were up against and all resistance was crushed or dealt with swiftly, for the Attackers gave no quarter.