Regroup and Assess

As we retreated to the safety of the river clearing, the heat of the flames and the acrid smoke began to fade, replaced by the cool, damp air near the water.

The villagers and guards gathered around, their faces etched with exhaustion and fear, but also a flicker of hope. We had managed to save many lives, though the cost was high. The village was lost to the relentless inferno behind us.

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. The adrenaline of the battle still coursed through my veins, but I needed to focus. I turned to Seraphina, her face smeared with soot but her eyes still sharp and determined.

"We need to regroup," I said, my voice steady but urgent. "Let's get everyone organized."

Seraphina nodded, and together we moved through the crowd, gathering the villagers and guards. Despite their exhaustion, they responded quickly, forming a loose circle around us.