The forest fell into an eerie silence. Smoke drifted slowly between the trees while the metallic scent of blood spread heavily through the damp air. Corpses littered the ground, soldiers, Dragxtarns, even the two paladins, all reduced to lifeless remains scattered across the ruined battlefield.
Only the prisoners remained alive. Some cowered behind the iron cages, trembling violently as they stared at the massacre before them. Others could only sob quietly, too terrified to even move.Lory stood amidst the destruction, breathing slightly unevenly, her sword still stained with blood.
Not far from her, Simon slowly pushed himself upright from the shattered cage. Blood trickled down the corner of his lips.
Yet instead of anger—
He laughed. A low, breathless chuckle escaped his mouth before gradually growing louder.
