Some of the civilians dropped to their knees, tears streaming freely as they clutched one another. Mothers hugged their children tight, while little ones sobbed against their parents' shoulders, their cries raw with exhaustion and release.
The remaining soldiers of Baron Roland leaned on their weapons, shoulders heaving, eyes closing as if the weight of weeks of fear had suddenly lifted from them. Some laughed weakly, others simply stared ahead, stunned that they had made it this far alive.
Baron Roland himself sat slumped in his saddle, exhaling a long, heavy breath. Captain Derrek, riding beside him, caught the look on his face and gave a tired smile.
"We're finally here, my lord," Derrek said softly. "You can rest now. You've been anxious and haven't slept properly this past week. Your body needs it."
