The forest was devastated by the small battle against the Crunchers. Trees laid scattered about, portions of the earth were smoking and charred, while others were drenched in water. Large gashes and craters dotted the forlorn landscape.
The scent of smoke and resignation filled the air. The voices of people and the sound of burnt grass crackled through the ruined land.
The soldiers laid under the shade of the untoppled trees, sweating profusely, covered in blood and dirt, and watching each other closely.
The nervous anticipation that filled the young Squires now dissolved and was replaced by a heavy, grim disgust. They peeled off their ruined armour and cast aside broken blades while they talked.
"I'll never complain about hunting Lurker Hounds again," Callan murmured.
"You're so fucking cool, Helie," Kon said, "I don't think I could have managed fighting those things without your orders."
