It's true that we suffered a defeat in the fortress battle. Harness that feeling, that failure. It must be corrected.

There will be another battle, on another day. I have an order for you. It will allow us to regain our footing and press forward on the heels of this fluke.

The higher-ups have ordered the suppression of Valiant's Watch, Stonegrave Ruins, Ashen Glade, and Smoldering Crag in preparation for the impending battle. Eliminate all the War Agitators in the following areas and bring me Smoldering Soot as proof.

Accept. Decline.

We are not going to suffer such embarrassment again. I need you to rectify the situation.

Clear out these distractions from the surrounding area. We can't take any chances with enemies we don't need to fight.

Planning and preparation will set the record straight. We won't fail again, not if you succeed here.

"How's this for success?"

What an interesting material they leave behind. I wonder if we could use any of its properties to our advantage.

I'll have to have this examined as soon as possible. In the mean time, your actions will be reports to my superiors.

I'm sure they'll want to go on the offensive once they've heard the good news. Well done.

Completion:

Leton said that the higher-ups ordered him to clear out the area around the fortress in preparation for the next fortress battle.

When you returned, he gave you a reward.