Two years

"You have returned."

In the camp, the same young man stood before another man, a figure of authority who radiated a quiet, imposing presence.

"Report," the older man commanded.

The young man bowed slightly before speaking. "As requested, I have successfully dealt with the enemy forces. Just as predicted, the enemy did not send too strong forces, only an Awakened of stage one. This was the main focus of their strategy, to probe our defenses and weaken us gradually."

He hesitated for a moment, then bowed his head further. "I am sorry for not being able to save the soldiers."

The older man's gaze hardened as he looked into the young man's eyes. "Do not say things that you do not mean."

The young man nodded his head at this fact. "Understood," he replied, accepting the truth in the older man's words.