In the Lynx Federation's camp, the RAT-A-TAT-TAT of machine guns echoed from the perimeter. They were stopping the creatures driven out by the Insect Flowing Sand from charging the encampment.
Admiral Sebier's adjutant, Major Zephir, sat outside a tent, using the daylight to quickly flip through and examine some documents.
Just then, an officer walked over briskly. "Reporting, sir," he said. After being permitted to approach, he saluted and said, "Major, the Insect Flowing Sand is approaching. Our soldiers are asking when we can retreat."
Without looking up, Major Zephir said, "We can't leave. The Admiral ordered us to hold this position."
"But most of the people in the camp are unwilling to stay here any longer..."
As he was speaking, a commotion broke out on the camp's perimeter. Suddenly, several people who had been building ritual implements dropped their shovels and made a run for it.
