Chapter 105 - The Names We Remember
Atlas needed only about 5,000 more experience points to reach Level 50, a milestone he intended to achieve as soon as he finished dealing with the aftermath of the battle.
His system reflected an additional 20 combatants and 5 workers, all accounted for in the updated tally.
However, as he observed the numbers more closely, he realized something unsettling. The total count of his troops was still lower than it should have been, even after factoring in the new recruits from his victory.
Frowning, Atlas approached Edrik, who was debriefing the team leaders following the battle. Noticing his Lord’s approach, Edrik turned to face him.
"We lost five combatants," Edrik reported.
Atlas’s hands trembled momentarily as the weight of the statement hit him. His jaw tightened, and he clenched his fists, forcing himself to remain steady.
He had always known this reality couldn’t be avoided. Anyone who joined this game did so with the full understanding of the risks. It was a world of absolutes: kill or be killed.
Drawing a deep breath, Atlas stepped forward toward the four team leaders who stood in a line. His gaze swept over each of them, taking in their faces: Zara, leader of Team Aether; Kaida, leader of Team Blaze; Garen, leader of Team Cinder; and Ronan, leader of Team Dusk.
His gaze moved across their faces. The expressions were heavier than usual, with a gravity that even silence couldn’t conceal. Only Ronan, whose flat demeanor mirrored Edrik’s, remained unreadable, as if untouched by the weight of the moment.
"We will create a monument," Atlas finally said. "It will bear the names of those who fell today, as a symbol of honor and remembrance."
He paused, letting the words settle before continuing. "We will also provide financial support to the families they’ve left behind."
He scanned their faces. "Is there anything you’d like to say?"