The aftermath of the facility's collapse hung heavy in the air as the group emerged from the dust cloud, coughing and shielding their faces from the debris that rained down. The once-massive structure was now a smoldering ruin, its destruction leaving behind a jagged scar on the barren landscape. Yet the victory was hollow. The ground beneath their feet was still trembling faintly, as though the land itself resented their interference.
Ruby scanned the horizon, her rifle still raised, her body poised to strike. "We hit them hard, but that wasn't the end. The Shadow's just getting started."
Finn wiped soot from his face, his voice trembling. "If that wasn't his full army, then what is?"
Caleb adjusted his blade on his belt, his expression grim. "We'll find out soon enough. But whatever it is, we won't be able to handle it alone."
