Cry of the Hunters reveals a side of the boys from the island that hasn't been seen before. On page 247 the audience is made clear that there were cries not only of distress controversy (meaning that even though they are being rescued, the realisation hits, and is stressfull, overwhelming, for them all to comprehend), but of helplessness, loss of innocence, and what they have become as people.
Ralph learns what mankind is capable of and that everyone can have darkness in their heart. His island best mate, was killed in front of his eyes. The innocence he lost from that point on was dramatic and changed who he was.