Chapter 179 - Return

When Gustavo and the others finally reached the relative safety of their fortified camp outside the city, they were met by Jason, who had returned from his own mission. His expression was stern, and his harsh words hit them like a bucket of cold water.

His words stung, and the group felt a wave of shame and regret wash over them. Now that they had a moment to catch their breath and reflect, it seemed obvious. The dungeons were the source of the enemy reinforcements. They should have anticipated that the enemies would react swiftly and decisively once their territories were breached. It was a glaring oversight.

The survivors exchanged glances, the exhaustion in their eyes now mingled with determination. They knew Jason was right. Their near-disastrous retreat had been a hard lesson in the importance of thorough planning and strategic thinking. They couldn't afford to make such mistakes again.

"... Did you pull it off, Jason?" Gustavo asked.