Lucas moved through his squad, his sharp eyes scanning each of them carefully, not just for visible injuries but for signs of exhaustion, instability, or anything that could hinder them in the battles to come, and to his quiet relief, they were holding up well, battered but intact, their spirits steady despite everything they had just endured. Bartho gave him a firm nod, the others following suit, their respect for him only deepened after what they had witnessed on the battlefield, and for a brief moment, Lucas allowed himself to feel that reassurance, that his people were still standing.
"Good," he said calmly, his voice carrying quiet authority. "Stay ready. This isn't over yet."
