"Let's go..."
At the forest's edge, the rested Shieldguards assembled in formation to welcome back their leader.
However, when Patriot fully entered their field of vision, every Shieldguard froze.
What shocked them was not the unprecedented armor he wore, but the aura he radiated.
The oppressive heaviness around him, like ten-thousand-year permafrost, seemed to have been scattered by a warm spring breeze.
In its place was an uplifting confidence that radiated from within—a firm will capable of facing any hardship, crushing every scheme and enemy.
That presence... ever since the Captain's son had died in that tragedy... they had thought they would never see it again.
Was it because of him?
The Shieldguards' gazes passed over Patriot and fell upon the tall figure standing quietly at the edge of the forest.
He watched everything in silence, saying nothing, as though he were merely an extension of the forest itself.
"Let's go."
Patriot repeated himself, his voice still hoarse but now carrying a long-lost strength.
The Shieldguards instantly snapped back to attention, straightened their backs, and reformed their ranks. A killing intent spread once more, but it was more spirited than before.
Patriot bent down and gently lifted FrostNova, steadily placing her atop his shoulder armor.
After settling his daughter, Patriot turned back and quietly looked toward Gorth at the forest's edge.
The two stared silently at each other from a distance. There were no words, nor was there any need for them.
"Dad..."
FrostNova gently tugged on one of her father's horns, breaking the long silence.
Gorth moved first. He gave a slight nod as a final farewell, then turned away without hesitation.
Patriot finally turned back to face his loyal warriors.
He felt his daughter's light weight on his shoulder, felt the long-lost ease within his body.
"I... am