Maximus's mood grew heavy, especially when he encountered the bodies of women and children.
As they continued marching south, the vibrant greenery started to vanish. Trees had been felled, wild grass uprooted, replaced by makeshift hovels and tents scattered across the fields without fences or walls. People dressed in bizarre garments were everywhere; some cooking, others laughing, training, fighting, or abusing captives. The scene was chaotic and noisy, with the occasional harrowing screams of women coming from certain tents.
Maximus's furrowed brow tightened even further.
When these people noticed travelers on the now-deserted road, their eyes fell upon Maximus's troops. Yet, the Free Italy banner held high and the imposing soldiers dissuaded most from thoughts of robbery, though some still dared to block the path, demanding supplies.
At this moment, Okmar galloped forward, declared his identity, and fiercely reprimanded them for their insolence.
