The days of intense training and study had finally brought Bruno and the others to the brink of a breakthrough. Each of their auras had grown increasingly solid, and every movement radiated strength, agility, and pressure. After observing their performance, Ang realized that further training had lost its meaning, so he decisively gave them a break.
"You lot should go out and get some fresh air," Ang said lightly, his eyes full of trust. "Take this chance to do what you want, relax your minds, and perhaps your breakthrough will come when you least expect it."
Bruno grinned at that. "My lord, this is the first time we've ever been 'given leave.' We'll treasure it!"
The others could not help smiling as well. Long-term training had accustomed them to a relentless pace, so this sudden moment of freedom was undoubtedly an unexpected delight.
However, Bruno and the others' vacation left Allen caught between laughter and tears. Watching the guards sweating through drills on the training grounds, he let out a long sigh. "Why am I the only one who can't take a break? I still have to lead this bunch!"
In truth, Allen's task was indeed arduous. Most of the slaves they had rescued earlier were men in their prime. After resting and recovering for some time, their bodies had returned to normal. Under Ang's arrangements, diluted Healing Potion had been added to their daily drinking water. Not only had they grown stronger by the day, but they had also gradually regained their spirit and fighting will.
Now, most of those people had joined the guard force, pushing its numbers beyond four hundred. Their discipline—their obedience to orders without hesitation—made even Allen marvel. "These men are born warriors. With just a little training, they'll become rare elite troops."
Ang had