After Father taught me about power and power struggles, as well as the upcoming gathering event, I excused myself and made my way towards the training ground to meet the head knight, Kevin.
As I walked, I pondered what Kevin might be like based on his name. I imagined him as someone average-looking yet charismatic, wearing armor and carrying a sword and shield. Surely, he must be strong to have been appointed as the head knight of the marquis.
Before reaching the training ground, I decided to change into more comfortable clothing suitable for movement. Despite it being early in the day, I already felt exhausted.
Sighing, I reflected on the challenging morning I had experienced. From the unknown memories that haunted me to the encounter with a terrifying aura, sleep had eluded me. My morning felt completely ruined, except for the peaceful moment of watching the sunrise with Father.
Nonetheless, I pushed through my fatigue and headed towards the training ground to meet Kevin.
To my astonishment, Kevin was nothing like I had anticipated. He had an unusually large frame, bulging with muscles, and a noticeable scar on his side profile. He looked intimidating, far from the image I had conjured in my mind.
Observing him, it became clear that he was training a battalion with great intensity. They were divided into small groups, engaging in various exercises such as swinging swords and doing push-ups.
Just then, Kevin barked in a harsh voice, "Halt! Rest for 2 minutes, and then we will continue."
My expectations were shattered by the reality of how Kevin appeared and commanded his soldiers. I gulped as I watched some of the soldiers struggle and fall down.
In my mind, I panicked, thinking, "I am in trouble!"
Every excuse imaginable crossed my mind, from stomach aches to migraines, in an attempt to escape his demanding training.
However, since I had made a promise to Father to begin my training, I mustered up the courage to approach Kevin, albeit hesitantly.
In a low voice, I said, "Excuse me, are you Kevin?"
He turned around, and I flinched at his sudden movement.
His tone softened, no longer as commanding as before, and he asked with concern, "Are you okay, Master Ray? Why do you look so scared?"
I was taken aback by his unexpected change in demeanor, but I managed to nod in response.
He smiled kindly and inquired, "To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit, Master Ray?"
I stammered, "I... I want you to train me!"
His expression instantly turned serious, and he said, "Do you see them?" pointing towards the battalion.
"I apologize for being blunt, but your situation will become like theirs, or perhaps even worse. I must warn you that I won't go easy on you during training."
He paused and then asked, "Do you still want me to train you?"
Upon hearing his words, I felt a bead of sweat forming, but I looked directly into his eyes and asked, "Can you make me strong?"
He grinned and replied, "Undoubtedly!"
I nodded with determination and said, "I want to be strong!"
Kevin smiled approvingly, but then commanded firmly, "Then, start running. Complete 10 laps circling the mansion!"