LIGHTNOVELWORLD Chapter 14: Training time
The sun had barely risen, and the vast training grounds outside the capital were already alive with the sound of determination. Rows upon rows of recruits stood ready, their expressions a mix of eagerness and trepidation. They had come from all corners of the empire—farmers, blacksmiths, mages, and even former merchants—answering Kaelion's call. Now, they faced their first true test.
Kaelion stood atop a raised platform, flanked by Sir Vellor and Magistra. His voice, imbued with magical amplification, rang out across the field.
"You have come here not as individuals but as the future of this empire. To stand against our enemies, you must first conquer yourselves. You will endure pain, fatigue, and doubt. But if you persevere, you will become unstoppable. Together, we will forge a force that will reshape the world!"
The recruits erupted into cheers, their spirits ignited by Kaelion's words. With a nod to Sir Vellor and Magistra, the training began.
Sir Vellor, clad in armor polished to a gleaming shine, stepped forward. His grizzled face bore the marks of countless battles, and his presence commanded respect.
"Strength and discipline," he bellowed, pacing before the recruits. "These will be your foundation. Weakness will break you. Indiscipline will kill you. Now, let's see what you're made of!"
The regimen began with the basics:
The recruits ran across the sprawling fields surrounding the capital, each stretch growing longer and faster.Weighted packs were gradually added, forcing them to push their limits.
Wooden swords clashed as recruits learned basic stances, strikes, and blocks.Sir Vellor corrected their forms with sharp words and sharper demonstrations, showing how even the smallest error could mean death in battle.
They lifted heavy stones, dragged logs, and carried each other across obstacle courses.Sir Vellor introduced a punishing set of exercises: push-ups, sit-ups, and pull-ups, all performed until their muscles screamed for mercy.
Recruits learned to move as one, practicing formations for defense, offense, and ambush tactics.Sir Vellor personally demonstrated the effectiveness of a tightly knit phalanx, breaking their ranks to prove a point before guiding them to perfection.
"You are no longer individuals," he reminded them, his voice thunderous. "You are a part of something greater. Act like it!"
Meanwhile, Magistra oversaw the magical training. She wore her signature dark robes, her sharp eyes scanning the recruits with the precision of a hawk.
"Magic is not about raw power," she began, her voice calm but commanding. "It is about control, precision, and understanding. You will learn to wield it not as a blunt tool, but as an extension of your very being."
The regimen was as rigorous as it was enlightening:
Recruits meditated to find their magical core, focusing on breathing and visualization.Small tasks, like levitating pebbles or creating sparks, taught control before they moved on to more advanced techniques.
Fire manipulators practiced creating controlled flames without letting them spiral out of control.Water users learned to manipulate streams into intricate patterns, testing their finesse.Earth mages moved heavy boulders, shaping them into defensive walls.Wind users created gusts strong enough to topple dummies but not harm their comrades.
Practical applications were emphasized. Recruits learned to shield themselves from projectiles, create barriers, and launch offensive spells with precision.Sparring sessions paired physical fighters with mages, forcing both to adapt to each other's styles.
Magistra introduced complex spellwork, including illusions, reinforcement magic, and small-scale curses.She also taught the recruits how to combine their magic with physical attacks, turning them into versatile combatants.
"Magic," she said, "is an art. Treat it with respect, or it will destroy you."
Kaelion refused to stand idly by while others trained. Dressed in battle-worn armor and his signature crimson cape, he joined the recruits in their exercises, running alongside them and sparring with those brave enough to challenge him.
"A king must lead by example," he told them, sweat dripping down his face. "I will not ask of you what I cannot do myself."
During magic training, Kaelion demonstrated techniques from Magistra's grimoire, his mastery inspiring awe. He sparred with recruits to test their progress, offering encouragement when they faltered and guidance when they struggled.
His favorite lesson involved teamwork. He orchestrated exercises where mages and warriors worked together to overcome simulated battle scenarios. Those who showed exceptional promise were given private instruction, their potential carefully nurtured.
After months of relentless training, the recruits were unrecognizable. Their bodies were honed, their minds sharp, and their magic refined. They moved with confidence and purpose, their unity evident in every formation and spell.
Kaelion addressed them once more, his voice filled with pride.
"You have surpassed every expectation. You are no longer mere recruits. You are the lifeblood of this empire, its protectors and champions. Together, we will forge a future where none can stand against us. Remember: A united empire is an invincible empire!"
The recruits roared their approval, their spirits blazing with newfound determination.
As the squadrons returned from their missions across the empire, they brought reports of hope. The people were recovering, their spirits bolstered by the emperor's vision and efforts. Families of the recruits were thriving, their lives improved by the empire's support.
Kaelion stood atop the palace walls, overlooking the sprawling training grounds where his new army assembled. Millions of soldiers stood ready, their banners fluttering in the wind. For the first time, he felt the full weight of his empire's strength, not as a burden, but as a force for change.
"This is only the beginning," he whispered to himself. "The world will know our name."