Rock Fortress, the stronghold they had held for over a year, was now the only beacon of hope for this defeated army.
If they could just get back, shut the heavy gates, light a bonfire, eat a hot meal, and get some sleep… these shell-shocked soldiers might be able to muster their courage again.
The column marched on in grim silence, and just before the darkest hour of dawn, they finally saw the familiar, blurry silhouette of Rock Fortress on the mountainside.
The watchtower stood silhouetted against the starry sky, as if quietly awaiting its master's return.
"Look, it's the Rock Fortress!"
"We made it! We finally made it!"
"Gods be praised..."
The surviving soldiers' spirits lifted. Their pace quickened, and their faces showed a mixture of relief at having cheated death and the profound weariness that followed.
Many even began to imagine the taste of hot soup and the comfort of a warm bed.
