Bloodshed

Two guards dragged in one of the accused ringleaders of the rebellion, the young man spitting and yelling out about truth and the people.

"Ah, finally, we can get some answers, you-"

The Captain of the Guard pulled out his sword and stabbed the young man through the chest. The blood hit me right as the shock did.

After a moment, I turned to him.

"Did I not state the King's orders clearly? As little bloodshed as possible!"

"I can have a washerwoman brought up to-"

"Metaphorical bloodshed!

...

But yes, please arrange for a washerwoman as soon as possible, please."