For the first time since entering the ancient ruins, there was peace.
Not complete peace.
The kind of peace soldiers experienced after surviving a battle.
Temporary.
Fragile.
The sort that could shatter at any moment.
Yet nobody complained.
After fighting hundreds of Tier 9 Void Burrowers, everyone welcomed the chance to breathe.
The dwarves established a temporary camp inside one of the ruined districts.
Ancient stone buildings surrounded them on all sides.
Some structures had partially collapsed.
Others remained strangely intact despite the passing millennia.
Enchanted lanterns illuminated the area while scouts patrolled the perimeter.
The atmosphere was cautious.
But calmer than before.
---
John rested near a massive ruined tower.
His enormous body occupied almost an entire plaza by itself.
Even while lying down, he towered over everyone around him.
A few dwarven warriors were still sneaking glances his way.
Not out of fear anymore.
Out of curiosity.
