Chapter 39: Black octagonal knight’s cap (2)
The cadets from the Swordsmanship Department, those of commoner birth.
Currently referred to as the "saplings" or the "sapling squad," they were different from the noble cadets who had been rebellious from the start. From the first encounter, they showed little resistance toward Ihan. This was partly because he came from a lower background than theirs, but also because they were drawn to his "strength."
The image of him overwhelming the vice-commander of a renowned sword-fighting family, who had insulted him, was burned into their minds. He was strong. That he could become so powerful despite his lower status than theirs was astonishing.
And later, when they got to know him more formally, they discovered that he had never learned the "Toughening Technique." In some ways, this was obvious. They’d heard that starting the Toughening Technique at the age of five was considered late.
Naturally, it was something out of reach for those of the lower classes. To begin learning the Toughening Technique, which involves acquiring life force, or combat power, one needs a master to guide them and the help of a priest to protect their young body from damage. It’s an expense that commoners can never afford.
...Some say it’s possible to train in the Toughening Technique safely as an adult, but how realistic is that?
Maybe for a genius or someone with a heroic fate, but, unfortunately, most people are neither. They’re simply struggling day by day to survive.
That’s why they respect their instructor. He became a knight without learning the Toughening Technique, born into a harsher environment than theirs. And he’s strong.
Strength—he achieved this treasure, one that everyone covets, through sheer effort. Who wouldn’t admire that?
So they resolved to follow their instructor’s orders to the best of their abilities, enduring any harsh regimen.
“–Trainee number two, fall out.”
...Or so they thought.