"When I was forty-six, my legion commander recommended me for service in the Church's Sword Guard Legion."
"When I first joined the Sword Guard Legion, I failed the assessment. My rank was to be lowered by one grade, and according to past custom, I would also be assigned to a squadron as its deputy squad leader."
"During the initial assignment period, my former legion commander learned of this and used his connections to spare me the demotion. I was sent directly to the headquarters of the Sword Guard Legion's Second Army as an adjutant to the logistics officer, helping him handle logistical matters."
"During that time, I met my former mentor."
At this point, Velin waved for Fulna to stop. He rubbed his chin and said curiously, "Let me guess. Your mentor was probably Legion Commander Mitchell, wasn't he?"
Fulna shook his head. "Marshal, you... well, guessed wrong."
"Then who was it?"
Velin shifted his posture and asked impatiently.
Fulna looked somewhat hesitant. But remembering his mentor's respect for Velin, he gave up on concealing it. "In reply to the marshal, my mentor was your deputy."
"You mean Leonas?" Velin asked in disbelief.
"Yes, Marshal." Fulna nodded in confirmation.
Velin's curiosity was thoroughly aroused. Looking at Fulna, he asked eagerly, "In that case, why were you in the Wings of Dawn Legion instead of continuing your studies at Leonas's side?"
"Marshal, please allow me to organize my thoughts," Fulna said, a trace of hesitation flashing through his eyes.
Velin smiled. "No problem. I have nothing to do today. We can talk until dawn if we like."
Fulna began considering which matters he could recount, which he should mention selectively, and which absolutely could not be spoken of.
Ten minutes later, after forming a rough outline, Fulna raised his head to