368. Logistics and Carriages

Auxiliary combat forces made up of the Mana-Less were not uncommon across the Empire, but most served as transport teams or logistics units for knight orders. After all, with their own knightly house lords at the front, it was only natural for the Mana-Less to take part in chores such as setting up camp, washing horses, and cooking.

Yet contrary to what Jim had imagined, they were not auxiliary soldiers of the Gallop Knight Order, but an independent auxiliary force. After Knight Daniko announced this to all the Mana-Less, the camp began issuing full sets of uniforms, military boots, and supplies, and started announcing army discipline, schedules, and training plans.

After that, the entire Auxiliary Army began a training routine unheard of before: running every morning, formation and strength training in the afternoon, and studying Gallop history and literacy lessons at night.

Day after day, the barracks of nearly fifteen hundred men were like a wheel constantly turning. Every day, dozens left the camp and returned whence they came because they could not keep up with the training, while a considerable number also joined the barracks and became new members.

As assistants to the corps commander, Jim and Jarg only needed to undergo part of the training. Their more important work was to help with the camp's various affairs. For example, before everyone rose at dawn, the two of them had to enter the mess hall and supervise the making of breakfast. After morning drills began, they had to inspect every tent and check whether there were any prohibited fire sources or items.

Before afternoon training began, they had to ensure the drinking water was in place. After the evening cultural lessons, they had to confirm the list of soldiers eliminated that day.

Jim enjoyed the bustle of these five