Construct-18

The Harvester

I was not far from Ludwig’s claim when the ground began to rumble beneath my feet. Thinking it was an earthquake, I ran through the forest, looking for the nearest clearing. But then the ground ahead erupted. 
Dust darkened the sky as the scent of fresh bricks was spreading through the woods. What emerged from the explosion was a snake the size of an Ironclad. With its drill, beset with countless gears, it ground all trees and rocks in its path between its cogs. Its contorting body released a swarm of insects chirping so loud I feared bleeding out of my ears. Then it carved its path through the woods like an unstoppable force and fell upon the mine. Within moments, it was all gone. The camp. The tunnels. My countrymen. All Gone. The machines had left nothing but a hole stripped of all life and resources.