Secret murder is one of the most serious crimes an Orlanthi could commit.
Murder vs. Secret murder[]
The Orlanthi believe that a murder committed publicly, or with others' knowledge, can be forgiven if a wergild is paid to the deceased's family or clan.
A murder committed in secrecy is a much graver offense. If the perpetrator is found (or even suspected), retribution may come in the form of outlawing, execution, or a punitive raid.
This is mentioned in the event Formal Declaration of Feud, where a rival clan publicly announces their intent to kill as many of your clan's people as possible, remarking, "Because we have told you this, it won't be a secret murder, which is a crime."
Violent deaths occurring during a raid or organized warfare are not considered murders, and are therefore not subject to wergild.