After a long silence, one ability-user finally stepped forward and said, "Captain, it wasn't easy for me to get into the special forces. I don't want to retire."
Jin Xuyan nodded and said, "I understand. Thank you for your service all these years. Before you leave, I will divide some supplies and crystal cores for you."
Hearing this, the rest of those who wanted to leave finally spoke up. Most were unwilling to retire after working so hard to join the special forces.
While Xiao Qi and the others felt upset, seeing them as traitors, Jin Xuyan had no objections. He would rather they leave than follow him unwillingly.
Once their decisions were made, Jin Xuyan stood up and saluted them. The soldiers returned his salute.
Lowering his hand, he said, "Brothers, I wish you all a bright future and safety. Meeting adjourned."
With that, he turned and left the room.
Watching his firm steps as he left, those who chose to leave lowered their heads.
Most had only been in the Phantom Team for a year or two, and though their attachment wasn't deep, they had received their captain's care and even owed him their lives. Now that they were leaving, guilt weighed heavily on them.
Noticing this, Zhang Yuan turned to them and said, "Raise your heads and stand tall."
The soldiers obeyed, despite looking at him with teary eyes.
Zhang Yuan let out a long sigh before he said, "Brothers, from today onward, the duty of protecting our country falls on your shoulders. Since you have made your choice, walk your path with confidence."
"Captain and us don't blame you—he understands your concerns. Don't burden yourselves with guilt. We regret that we won't be able to watch your backs and fight alongside you anymore, but we wish you all a safe and sound future."
"Those leaving, pack your belongings and report to the Eagle Team. Those staying, remain here."
The soldiers who chose to leave saluted him before walking out, one by one. Now, only 12 people remain in the room. Fifteen had left, including four ability-users.
Noticing the heavy mood, Zhang Yuan smiled and asked, "Why do you all look like you lost a million dollars?"
Xiao Qi frowned and said, "Vice Captain, aren't you angry? After everything we have been through together, they just left."
Zhang Yuan patted his shoulder and said, "Xiao Qi, throughout life, many people will only stay for a moment—guests passing through your life. If you get angry every time someone leaves, won't you wear yourself out?"
"I understand how you feel, but in the end, everyone has the right to choose their own path. Just because we think differently doesn't mean their decision is wrong."
"You are still young. You will understand more in time," he added patiently.
Seeing that everyone had calmed down, he continued, "I asked you all to stay because we will be heading to the seed factory with the Captain to collect supplies."
"Today, the Captain and Sister-in-law found rice and coarse grains there. From the information he gathered, the amount is significant." freeωebnovēl.c૦m
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