At dawn the next day, Carl woke up determined to begin his journey towards the city of Mucrea. He organized his few belongings, wrapped his old hatchet in a piece of cloth, and securely tied it to his backpack.
As he left home, the village was bustling with activity. Farmers worked in the fields, children ran through the streets, and the smells of kitchens intertwined in the air. Carl walked the dirt streets with firm and determined steps.
While on his way, Carl crossed paths with some villagers who greeted him with curiosity and encouragement. They knew he was heading to Mucrea to enlist for the battle, and many wished him luck on his journey. Carl thanked each of them with a nod and a determined smile.
The road to Mucrea was long and winding, surrounded by picturesque scenery. Majestic mountains rose in the distance, covered in a gentle mist. Dense forests displayed a myriad of colors and sounds, harboring mysterious creatures that Carl could only imagine.
During his journey, Carl encountered other travelers on the road. Some were heading to the city in search of work or trade, while others were also enlisting for the battle. They shared stories and information about the dangers that awaited beyond the city limits.
As he walked, Carl reflected on his transformation and the possibilities that lay before him. He had mastered the art of mana accumulation and developed his first level of awakened warrior. Now, he was determined to become increasingly powerful and achieve his goal of becoming a respected warrior in the kingdom.
After days of walking, Carl finally caught sight of the city walls of Mucrea. They were imposing, built with massive stones and guarded by watchtowers. The city pulsated with life and activity, with people of all social classes coming and going.
Carl, along with the other young people who were enlisting, entered the city gates and was immediately engulfed in intense bustling. The streets were filled with merchants, soldiers, and citizens going about their daily routines. The sound of voices, the smell of spices, and the frenetic pace of the city filled the air.
Determined to find the enlistment location, Carl asked a guard for directions. The guard pointed to a busy square in the city center, where recruiters were gathering volunteers for the army. Carl thanked the guard and headed towards the square.
Upon reaching the square, Carl was impressed by the crowd of people gathered there. Men and women of all ages, from different backgrounds and appearances, anxiously awaited their turn to present themselves. He joined the line and patiently waited his turn.
While waiting, Carl observed the recruiters, imposing men dressed in gleaming armor. They scrutinized the volunteers with experienced looks, seeking those who seemed the most fit and determined. Carl exerted himself to show his resolve, maintaining an upright posture and a steady gaze.
When his turn came, Carl approached one of the recruiters and introduced himself as a volunteer. The man carefully examined him, observing his posture and determined expression. After a few moments of silent evaluation, the recruiter nodded and extended his hand to Carl.
"Welcome to the army of Mucrea," the recruiter said in a deep voice. "We expect courage, discipline, and dedication from our soldiers. Are you ready to face the challenges that await those who defend the kingdom?"
Carl looked into the recruiter's eyes and replied with determination, "I am ready. I will give my best to protect this kingdom and become a powerful warrior."
The recruiter nodded again and indicated the path to the training camp. Carl followed the instructions, feeling a mixture of emotions within him. He was eager to begin his journey as a soldier, knowing that each challenge would be an opportunity to hone his skills and move closer to his ultimate goal.
As he made his way to the training camp, Carl mentally prepared himself
for the challenges that lay ahead. He was determined to excel, to become a feared and respected warrior. His journey towards greatness had only just begun.
Upon arrival, Carl saw a line of young recruits like himself. They were entering the training camp to receive their basic instructions on what their lives would be like from then on. Carl soon joined them.
They were led to open areas where they were briefed on schedules and obligations. The training camp was just another area within the military district. This area housed the recruits until they became real soldiers. This is where they learned the basics, as they couldn't go into battle without even knowing how to properly hold a sword.
The recruits' accommodations were also within the training camp. Only when they became real soldiers would they move to the barracks outside the training camp, but still within the military district. Awakened warriors are very rare. Throughout Mucrea, there are only 3 of the first level: the city lord, the general commander of the Mucrea army, and the lord's daughter, who is considered a genius for becoming an awakened warrior at only 18 years old. She is also part of the army, but is rarely put on the front lines.
Normal soldiers do not receive training to become awakened warriors, as it is a very expensive endeavor. Therefore, only talented people with strong financial support can become awakened warriors. There are rare cases of commoners becoming awakened warriors, but it is very rare.
After receiving all the instructions, all the recruits were given a recruit uniform. They were released for the day. They would only officially begin training the next day, so they had the rest of the day off.
The young ones flaunted their new uniforms through the city, brimming with pride. Carl decided to try and learn more about this world, so he looked for something resembling a library, even though he didn't know if they existed in this world. He needed more information to thrive in this new life.
"The most expensive product is information, as the sages used to say," Carl whispered as he walked through the city in search of a library.