The Calm Before the Storm

When he approached them, Zephyr and Zane rushed to him. Grinning, they offered a military salute before their mischievous voice echoed.

"As instructed, we drummed on their walls and howled all night. We saw them become paler and more irritated with each passing night." Zane raised his nose and puffed his chest. "Are you proud, big brother?"

Meanwhile, a heavy pouch clinked as Zephyr handed it to Adam.

"I gathered the twelve badges from this expedition, big brother. Take them"

Upon hearing them, the bubbling anger that had coursed through his veins a second ago cooled. His other generals' smiles and crossed arms also helped his narrowed eyes to relax.

He sighed, ruffling the two ruffians' hair before strapping the pouch to his belt.

"Well done, little imps."

Then, he turned to the others, a frown creasing his brow and his voice echoing the situation's solemness.

"A storm is brewing and closing on us."