Chapter 17
Brocc punched the ground as he and Frank watched the cave collapse. The air filled with dust and smoke. Brocc grabbed a rock and felt its contours dig into his palm as he gripped it angrily.
“I’m sorry,” Frank said, panting. “I didn’t think we’d make it out of there, Brocc.”
Brocc didn’t say anything. He fought back the tears.
“You always wanted to be a hero, Caulette,” he said. “You got your wish.”
Frank put his hand on Brocc’s shoulder. “We’ve got to go back. That explosion will probably attract whatever Gourmans are in the area.”
Brocc stood and nodded. Now wasn’t the time for grief.
Several hours later, they reached the outcrop that overlooked the vegetable camp. Helices of smoke rose from the camp where the army had been. There were hundreds of dead bodies all over t
