Cyrus and his team returned to the tent, while his soldiers celebrated outside. Under the night sky, their laughter, the aroma of wine, and the casual conversations by the bonfire created a pleasant scene. The soldiers raised their glasses to each other, celebrating the success of tonight's mission, their faces filled with excitement and contentment.
However, Cyrus sat inside the tent, his mood starkly different from the outside merriment. The light reflected on his pensive face, his eyes deep and seemingly reflecting on everything that had happened today. Lucius's fate, the tragic death of the innocent old soldier, all of this made Cyrus feel deeply conflicted and guilty. He sat alone, surrounded by the laughter of his comrades, but his heart was filled with the terror and bloodshed of the battlefield.
On this night, Cyrus struggled between celebration and sorrow in his heart, beginning to deeply contemplate the meaning and responsibility of being a soldier and a person. The joyous laughter outside sharply contrasted with the heavy silence inside the tent, symbolizing Cyrus's struggle between glory and conscience.
Constantine quietly entered the tent and found Cyrus immersed in his thoughts, his face filled with deep pain and confusion. He walked over quietly, sat across from Cyrus, gently patted his shoulder, and said in a warm and understanding tone, "You are much smarter than those young soldiers who only know how to cheer, Cyrus. Pain... it means you are still thinking, you still care. That's a good thing."
Constantine's eyes were full of encouragement and support as he continued, "In this world, nothing is black and white. This is especially true for a soldier. Your inner struggles, your hesitations and doubts, these are all part of your humanity. Don't forget, every moment, keep thinking. This will make you a better leader, a more ethical person."
Constantine's words brought a hint of comfort to Cyrus. He looked up at Constantine with gratitude shining in his eyes. Although the pain in his heart did not completely dissipate, Constantine's words were like a beam of light, illuminating the dark corners of his heart. Cyrus nodded, feeling more determined in his belief as a soldier.
Constantine changed the subject and said to Cyrus, "Today's events will undoubtedly leave a deep impression on you in the heart of the Legion commander. However, this is not just about the impression, but about your potential as a leader. You possess not only courage and strength, but also intelligence and a sense of responsibility. These qualities are invaluable in the army." Cyrus somewhat awkwardly replied, "I'm not like you, my lieutenant, always scheming. I just want to do my duty as a soldier for now."
Constantine smiled knowingly, his eyes revealing a hint of appreciation and agreement. He shook his head gently, with a playful tone, "You, always so modest. But, Cyrus, your performance today was not just about fulfilling the duties of a soldier. You showed leadership and judgment, qualities far beyond those of an ordinary soldier."
Cyrus listened to Constantine's words, furrowing his brow slightly, clearly still troubled by the events of the day. He responded in a low voice, "Lieutenant, I understand what you're saying. But I... I don't want to become a hero or anything in the eyes of others because of today's events. I'm just doing what I should do, following my conscience and the rules of the legion."
Constantine nodded, showing respect for Cyrus's integrity and perseverance. He responded solemnly, "I understand, Cyrus. Your integrity and perseverance are your greatest strengths and what the legion needs. However, don't forget, this world not only needs integrity, sometimes, knowing how to seize opportunities is equally important."
Cyrus nodded silently, pondering Constantine's words in his heart. He knew that he still had a long way to go, with much to learn and adapt to. But at this moment, he just wanted to stay true to himself and hold onto his beliefs.
At that moment, Constantine patted Cyrus on the back, pulling him up from his chair, and said, "Now, what you need to do is celebrate today's glorious achievement with your soldiers, not sit here alone in melancholy." Constantine smiled, and Cyrus chuckled self-deprecatingly. He let out a sigh and his smile finally seemed to carry some genuine emotion. He followed Constantine out of the tent.
Cyrus walked out of the tent, and the fire outside the tent cast his shadow. His soldiers immediately stopped talking and focused their gaze on him. As he approached, the soldiers' faces showed expressions of respect and joy. They saw not only a centurion, but also their leader and comrade.
Constantine followed behind Cyrus, smiling as he observed everything. Cyrus's soldiers immediately made way for him, and a few soldiers approached with wine cups, warmly inviting Cyrus to raise a toast to celebrate.
Cyrus looked at them, a sincere smile appearing at the corner of his mouth. He took a wine glass handed to him by a soldier, raised it and said to everyone, "Today, we have experienced a lot together. We have all done well, this is our collective effort and victory. Cheers to our unity and courage!"
The soldiers responded, amidst cheers, everyone clinked their glasses. Cyrus took a deep breath, feeling a sense of belonging and team spirit. He knew that this was what he truly pursued, not just personal glory, but facing challenges and growing together with his comrades.
By the bonfire, everyone sat around, laughter and singing intertwined. Constantine watched Cyrus blend in with the soldiers, his smile growing even broader. This night marked a new beginning for Cyrus; he was not just a centurion, but a true leader.
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