This passage is from a science fiction story about an alien invasion of Earth. What effect does the phrase "ruthless and utter destruction'" most likely have on readers?

Fear or pain. shock and utter loss

This passage comes from the book "The War of the Worlds", written by H. G. Wells in 1897. The story was dramatized in a radio program called "Mercury Theatre on the Air" which was aired in 1938. The production was of such good quality that it caused widespread panic among the listeners who believed the Alien Invasion was real. The words "ruthless and utter destruction'"was used during the airing.