Amon walked toward them and quietly joined the line.
The soldiers stood casually, talking among themselves as they waited. Some laughed, others argued about trivial things, and a few were already holding wooden plates filled with food.
The atmosphere was far more relaxed than Amon had expected in such a dangerous place.
When it was his turn, he received a simple meal. Warm stew, a piece of bread, and some roasted meat. Just like usual.
Nothing fancy. No special seasoning. Yet the steam rising from it carried a comforting smell.
Lucien and the others had already taken their food.
After taking his food, Amon moved away from the line.
Near one of the campfires, several soldiers were already seated on logs and stones, eating and chatting.
The fire crackled softly, its orange glow pushing back the darkness of the forest just a little.
Amon walked over to where Lucien was sitting and sat down beside him, keeping a small distance.
He took his first bite.
