Javier slowly ascended the stone steps to the top of the wall, Buddy following halfway before stopping to peck curiously at a barrel. The wind was quiet now, gentle as it brushed his coat.
Below him, Buddy waited patiently, while Javier looked down in silence. What had once been a sea of halfling soldiers was now merely a field strewn with scattered bodies, scorched earth, and broken weapons. Dark smoke still drifted from the mana cannon strikes.
His masked gaze swept across the battlefield, deep in thought.
Why? he wondered. Why did they choose war? Why not just retreat if they didn't want to surrender?
Was pride truly worth more than life? Was their stubbornness… worth this much death?
He closed his eyes for a moment, silent.
I gave them a chance. I warned them. I didn't want to kill anyone.
He exhaled slowly, softly.
But maybe that's the difference. I fight for something. They fought for nothing but pride.
