CHAPTER 19

***Cassie's Pov**

WE ARE ABLE TO vanquish ALL of the rogues, and not a single one of their lives was spared in the process because they do not merit it. This evening, we suffered a loss of 16 lives; certainly, we were successful in killing more than fifty of our opponents; yet, I cannot declare that we emerged victorious from this conflict.

It is not possible to have such a thing. The idea that you can win a war is nothing more than an illusion. The purpose of war is for both sides to suffer defeat, which is one reason why everything has become so brutal.

After we have laid to rest the body of one of our fallen warriors, we console the family that has suffered the loss of a loved one.

We have arrived at the packhouse now. Even though it is early morning, the sun has not yet begun to show itself. The wind is brisk, and so is the lack of conversation between my companion and me.

Yes, Kaiden, I am aware. It is likely that he is dissatisfied with me because I do not fully comprehend the c