Battle of Settlements

"Where do you hail from?" I queried, a hint of curiosity in my voice as I thought he might be one of the many variants sent to find small settlements.

"I was dispatched by my lord to keep watch on the ongoing battle at one of our settlements," the minion replied, his voice steady and unwavering.

I breathed a sigh of relief, but the expression on his face was unreadable. "So, what news do you bring with you?" I asked, my tone tinged with eagerness.

"My lord, the battle has come to an end, and unfortunately, most of our minions did not survive," he reported, his voice heavy with grief. I raised a hand to halt him, my mind racing with questions. "Are you saying that they were unable to inflict any damage on the enemy?" I asked, a hint of disbelief creeping into my voice.