Atlas needed only about 5,000 more experience points to reach Level 50, a milestone he intended to achieve as soon as he finished dealing with the aftermath of the battle.
His system reflected an additional 20 combatants and 5 workers, all accounted for in the updated tally.
However, as he observed the numbers more closely, he realized something unsettling. The total count of his troops was still lower than it should have been, even after factoring in the new recruits from his victory.
Frowning, Atlas approached Edrik, who was debriefing the team leaders following the battle. Noticing his Lord's approach, Edrik turned to face him.
"We lost five combatants," Edrik reported.
Atlas's hands trembled momentarily as the weight of the statement hit him. His jaw tightened, and he clenched his fists, forcing himself to remain steady.
