It was a normal day, where all the assignments were fulfilled without issue. The young soldier read reports from each company as they came in. He had completed almost all of the assignments given by the Colonel, and was scheduled to continue his work in another garrison. His military life was on a smooth course to success, but echoing sirens cut through that optimistic vision. The young soldier almost couldn’t believe it. For that siren signalled the collapse of the front. The quiet garrison immediately began to move. Human and homunculus soldiers alike both quickly prepared to retreat to the rear reserve position while reports continuously flew in. Apparently, the front line was ambushed. The trenches were blown away, and the friendly forces were routed, retreating towards the comp. It seemed like the enemy was keeping up their attacks during their withdrawal. Hearing information of their complete disadvantage, he also gathered his homunculi and began his retreat to the rear, though a frantic lieutenant interrupted him.
「Oh! So here’s where you’ve been!! The Colonel has given you an order!! He didn’t have the luxury to write it down for you, so listen carefully!!」 The lieutenant, out of breath, communicated the orders of the Colonel, but the young soldier couldn’t hear.
…No, he could hear the order, but his brain refused to acknowledge it. 「Until the withdrawal of the army is complete, you are to buy us time at the garrison.」 When his brain finally comprehended those words he was struck with a round of dizziness.