The moment the other centaurs saw their commander be rode upon, the last thread of their composure snapped.
Daughters and elders alike dropped to their knees, their cries rising to the heavens.
"No...it's over. It's all over now."
"Our commander...her innocence...gone..."
Some of the older centaurs began speaking through their tears, their voices heavy with nostalgia and grief.
"I-I used to train her when she was just a foal." One veteran whispered. "She was such an eager little thing. So bright. So stubborn. So full of fire!"
She clenched her fist.
"But now...seeing her like this...knowing I could do nothing to stop it...I am utterly ashamed of myself! Ashamed to call myself her knight!"
Another elder wept openly.
"How could I let the younger generation suffer like this while I still stand!? I-I should have protected her. I should have done something!"
Poppy was sobbing uncontrollably.
