Kingdom Building Game: Starting Out With A Million Upgrade Points!

Chapter 55: Trials Of Mind And Body

Chapter 55: Trials Of Mind And Body

Laris snorted, glancing at Esten. "Complaints won't get you far, Flanker. The Emperor doesn't care for excuses... only results." His gaze shifted to the woods. "But… I have a feeling there's more to this than just another grueling exercise."

Kael raised an eyebrow. "What makes you say that?"

"I heard rumors," Laris said, his tone dropping. "About what he did with the church in the western district. Apparently, he used some sort of divine miracle to improve it somehow and even built a statue for a goddess up front. Maybe he's planning something similar for us."

Esten's smirk widened. "You think he's going to build some fancy training structure out here? In the middle of nowhere?"

"Why not?" Laris countered. "The Emperor doesn't do anything without purpose. If he brought us this far, there's a reason for it."

Kael nodded thoughtfully. "It would explain why he emphasized those endurance drills so much. Whatever he's planning, we'll need every ounce of strength to face it."

The three continued their speculation as the soldiers behind them exchanged murmurs of their own.

Farther back in the formation, Lionel marched with resolve in his steps. The young knight had sandy blond hair that curled slightly at the ends, and his bright blue eyes were filled with a look of anxiety and resolve.

His youthful face, free of scars, was very different when compared to the grizzled veterans around him. He clutched his sword tightly, his knuckles white, as he thought to himself, 'This time, I'll prove my worth. Maybe… just maybe, the Emperor will notice me and praise my efforts.'

Beside him stood Darian, his hazel eyes glinting with amusement as he observed Lionel's tense posture.

"Ease up, kid," Darian said, giving Lionel a light nudge with his elbow. "You look like you're about to charge into a battlefield."

Lionel blinked, startled out of his thoughts. "I-I just want to do my best," he stammered, glancing at Darian nervously.