The night that descended upon Sestia after the day-long battle offered little beauty. It was a night of uneasy respite, one where the kingdom mourned even in victory.
A large portion of northwestern Sestia had been reduced to ruins. Houses lay collapsed beneath shattered stone and charred timber, the streets were scarred by the battle, and the smell of smoke still lingered in the cold night air. Everywhere, makeshift camps had sprung up as survivors were escorted into rows of hastily erected tents. Noble families and local officials worked through the night, arranging food, blankets and medicine while ensuring that those who had lost their homes had at least a place to rest before dawn.
