The battle against Crestview had ended, but their journey was far from over. The remaining hundred or so soldiers, nursing their wounds, pressed forward after looting their defeated enemies. While the fight had made them individually stronger, it had significantly depleted their forces.
There was no grand celebration due to their substantial losses. Despite being victorious, war left no true victors. Their comrades were now being reconstructed in their city, far from where they currently marched.
Among the lieutenants who had survived was Hawkins, who made sure to share the tales of the new recruits who had become heroes. As they moved closer to their final destination, bards sang songs in their honor.
"Can you hear the songs about you?" Joey, the man sitting by the window, asked. Seeing no immediate response, he continued. "We're not far from the Wide Lakes of Azkahar. I'll be taking my leave soon."
