Victory

((Sequel to 'Battle')) Silence. Men marched, out of step Away from the rising sun that cast the sodden ground In shades of blood. Heavy, blistered feet Clad in boots of worn and faded leather, Carried them back to a desolate camp. There were no words. Dried streams of tears Cut through the grime of sweat and blood That covered every warrior’s face. Sore and dirty hands beneath marred gauntlets Still gripped the hilts of bloodied blades. Dented metal armor sat atop Hunched and weary shoulders. Dull, bloodshot eyes were unfocused Down on the trodden earth beneath. Wounds were left forgotten on bruised skins, Gaining only the seldom grimace and endured. Scars would forever remind them Of what had transpired, The pain running deeper than flesh. It had been a long, cold night But these victors moved towards an even darker day.