In the crowd, several figures broke down in tears – families mourning comrades who sacrificed themselves in this operation.
Within the ranks returning home, a few empty spaces quietly emerged, wordlessly telling of the suffocating, crimson price paid behind this victory.
It is precisely the sacrifice of countless heroes that made this triumph possible.
"Remember this feeling. Do not let down their expectations. This is the duty of a Champion." Yang Chen's voice echoed: "Remember, the heroes stand behind us, watching. Carry their hope, and keep moving forward!"
Li Yelai bowed silently; every generation of Champions has shouldered such weight—the burden, the hopeful gazes. He must grow accustomed and bear it, no matter what.
There is no retreat, only the path ahead!
Afterwards, Li Yelai and the others returned to the family apartments, seeing the long-absent Li Yunyan.
Nearly three months apart, she had grown wan, seemingly thinner than before.
