The clearing went into an uncomfortable silence. The only noise was the sound of crying cubs, which began to quiet into scared whimpers. Even the wind seemed to cease to exist.
Sade stood, petrified. She didn't move. She couldn't move. Not an inch. all that changed was the dampness on her face as silent tears flowed heavily. All she could see is blood. She was close enough the some of the red had splattered a bit on her cheek.
Octavian watched in horror as his soldiers were killed. He held Amelia close to him, however he himself felt the need to be protected. He had never heard of this Kion until now. But now he knew for certain. He would never forget. And he would never forgive.
Fuli and Beshte stood together. For once, Fuli sought for protection herself in the large Hippo. Beshte of course didn't mind when he felt Fuli press against him, and Fuli was glad he didn't. The truth was, Beshte need her just as much. They needed each other to cope. Because all at once, for both of them, every happy memory with their leader collapsed.