Basic Training (Private, Rellium)

Soldier · October 6, 2007, 07:38 PM

Several others crowded around waiting for training. Some wanted to join the Veldar, some just wanted a weapons education and some had darker motives.

As all waited for 0700 hrs to roll around, a Half-Elf could be seen coming toward the group. He was dressed in an impeccably clean and well-maintained blue uniform with a shortsword and dagger at his belt. He wore steel capped boots, and had a stern countenance. At precisely 0700, he snapped to attention and bellowed in a remarkably powerful voice. “Serale! I am Sergeant Gerron Silverblade! If you are looking for an easy way to make money or a lazy existence, you are in the wrong place! If you want to train with the weapons of war, if you want to join the proud tradition of one of the empire’s greatest military units, then you have come to the right place! I will be your Senior Drill Instructor! You will listen to me and follow my orders! You will train long and hard, but in the end I will make sure that by the time you graduate, you will be prepared for the worst that the world can throw at you! Remember, the more you train in peace, the less you will bleed in war! Are there any questions?”

Rellium · October 7, 2007, 08:16 PM

Rellium did not have much else to do, so he arrived at the barracks much earlier than 7. He stood there and watched groups of people file in as 7:00 drew near. Rellium took in his surroundings as he waited. There wasn't much to say about the place other than it didn't seem like a lot of dillydallying went on here. It seemed strict and challenging.

"Excellent." Thought Rellium.

Rellium was curious to find out what his limits were. And he was sure he would be testing them soon. Rellium was impressed immediately by the figure approaching. He knew it must be Silverblade. Rellium might have been taller, but Silverblade looked taller. That was how Rellium imagined himself to be one day. Or maybe he would wear a hooded cloak that concealed his identity. Rellium could be mysterious and radiate fear. Or he would give the illusion of ordinariness but truly conceal a hidden power. What difference would it make what people made of him if Rellium really didn't have an ability or power? He'd just be a fraud. No, he had to concentrate on training, this was first. He could decide on his appearance later. When Silverblade spoke, Rellium knew he was right about him and his commanding authority. Someone had to have skill to look so dangerous. Rellium listened intently for he did not want to miss a word. Everything Silverblade said would have a point and should not be disregarded. Rellium had no questions for Silverblade and so he kept quiet as he assumed he should.

Soldier · October 7, 2007, 08:51 PM

Silverblade began to pace back and forth as he answered questions, looking at each person in turn, sizing him or her up. “You pay your training fee in a few moments. Training will last five days. At the end of it, you will know the use of the dagger and the weapon of your choice. I know the use of just about every weapon in existence, so your needs will not go unfulfilled. This is intended as a primer on the military. Citizens are encouraged to sign up and learn basic military skills. If you pass you will be given the opportunity to enlist in the Lions. If you do not, you go home a wiser person. If you do, you will undergo another set of training to make you into a soldier. In case anyone is concerned about discrimination against elves, giants, dwarves or anyone else, you needn't worry there. I show no favoritism and hold no animosity toward any race, creed, gender, or religion. Within these walls there is only one race and that is “CRIMSON LION”! Leave your prejudices at the gate. I hate only one thing and that is insubordination. I expect you to do what you are told to do, when you are told to do it and to do it as quickly and thoroughly as possible. As long as you are in my training program, I am the all-powerful god of your universe. DO NOT MESS WITH ME! I have killed more giants, bandits, orcs and assorted monsters than any three Lion soldiers put together. I will chew you up, spit you out, and pick my teeth with your bones. If you doubt me, you are welcome to try me. Are there any other questions?" There were none, so Silverblade continued.

"Alright everyone. When I say 'ATTENTION!' you are to stand erect, feet together, shoulders back, and head up, eyes parallel with the ground. When I say 'LEFT FACE' you will all turn and face the left. When I say 'FORWARD MARCH' you will all walk forward, stepping in time starting with your left foot." As he talked, he walked up and down the line of recruits, evaluating who was going to be a troublemaker, who would need extra help, and who he should talk to about joining the Lions. "COMPANY, that’s all of you, ATTENTION! LEFT FACE! FORWARD MARCH!"

The group headed off into the barracks. Everyone’s name was taken on a role, the 100 crown fee (waived for those who signed up now to enlist for 6 months) was paid, and all recruits were given a quick physical exam to make sure they were capable of getting through training without dying. Corpses tended to be a real morale buster. After getting uniforms, standard issue dagger, and stowing the gear in rough wooden footlockers, several Lion soldiers, Silverblade’s assistants, guided them to an exercise yard.

Rellium · November 10, 2007, 06:59 PM

He would be taking orders as long as he was dependant on Silverblade’s knowledge. Rellium would execute commands until he'd learned what was necessary. Rellium had respect for Silverblade; he obviously hadn't goofed off throughout his entire life. But after boot camp, Rellium was a free, lone wolf. He marched, as insignificant as the rest of those he marched with, at Silver blade’s command. Rellium did as ordered, performing the same tasks as those surrounding him. Soon after, he was escorted into a field.