After the new recruits completed some basic training, such as group movements, they began training designed to simulate actual combat.
They were equipped with gear obtained from the Golden Sheep Trading Company.
“Hey! You there! Hold that properly! Don’t drop your shield!”
The one training them was Herbert, who had traversed many battlefields over the years. Since Herbert had the highest personal combat skills, he was in charge of their instruction.
They were issued leather armor and oversized iron shields, larger than the conventional ones. Due to financial issues, they couldn’t provide iron armor. However, considering that their physiques had not fully matured yet, wearing iron armor would be difficult.
It was my and Herbert’s idea to issue them larger shields and provide training. Unlike the conscripted peasant soldiers, this group required both money and time to be trained, as they were being paid.
Therefore, we focused on their survival.
Having witnessed my father’s battles, I knew that when high-ranking knights appeared, the peasant soldiers would be trampled with no way to fight back. However, if they could at least block one or two attacks from knights, their survival rate should improve.
“Take a ten-minute break!”
As Herbert declared this, the soldiers fell to the ground in exhaustion.
Herbert also approached and drank from his canteen.
“What do you think, old man?”
“They’re still lacking. However, their formations and commands are being followed well, making it easier to lead them.”
“So we can expect improvement in the future, then?”
Herbert nodded.
“Well, considering the future, I thought it would be good for them to experience a knight’s strike.”
“While we are anticipating combat against knights, let’s keep it moderate…”
Herbert returned to the recruits, providing individual feedback on their weaknesses.
Perhaps due to his years of battlefield experience, he had a keen eye for observation. This was also why Herbert was respected by other knights.
“Alright! Break’s over! Get up quickly!”
With that, the soldiers stood and organized their formation.
“Now, as preparation for when you stand on the battlefield in the future, I will deliver a knight’s strike. I’ll hold back, so if you hold your shields properly, you won’t die!”
A wave of tension washed over the soldiers.
I had taken a few of those strikes myself during sword training…
They formed a dense formation, bracing each other with their shields.
Seeing this, Herbert readied his sword.
It seemed like the intimidation radiating from him increased. Apparently, those with talent can see a sort of aura, but unfortunately, I couldn’t see it. Well, I could sense it through the atmosphere somehow.
Herbert took a deep breath and, with a short exhalation, swung his sword.
With a high-pitched sound, the soldiers were knocked back, falling onto their backsides. The shields had grooves carved into them, but they were only superficial and did not penetrate.
The soldiers stared at Herbert, looking dazed.
I understand. A single strike from that old body that sends dozens of young men flying makes no sense.
While the soldiers were stunned, Herbert nodded with a smile.
“Well done, well done. But it seems my training wasn’t enough, as you let go of your shields.”
Although he had started with a smile, his pressure increased with the latter half of his words, exuding intimidation. The soldiers hurriedly picked up their shields, but it was already too late.
“As punishment, you will run 50 laps fully equipped!”
They began to run off like sheep being herded.
Watching this scene brought me a sense of nostalgia and familiarity.
Get stronger…
I felt like a protective guardian.
