Garudeina Oukoku Koukoku Ki Volume 4 Chapter 12

Bard note: My exams are finally over.

Prepare for the flood.

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Intermission: First Corps

My name is Johann. A man of the wolf tribe, I am the head of the guard corps in Garudeina city.

Originally, I took care of livestock, I cleaned up feces, and did other handiwork on a small farm. At some point, I was rescued from a life of poverty and slavery. I was even provided with work, food, clothing and shelter. Moreover, I was given a high position in the industry of this city. There is no expectation for unreasonableness. I have to pay my debt with eternal loyalty.

This feeling is common, especially among the residents of the first generation. The chiefs of each industry are extremely talented, and I am proud that I belong among them. As the head of the organization directly under Georg-sama, I am more rigid than anyone and pledge my loyalty deeper than anyone else.

That is why I am proud of my duties. I will wear the swords and armor given by His Excellency, and keep the security of the town of His Excellency. Everyone in the guard corps is proud of their special duties. Apart from vacation days, everyone is always faithfully doing their duties.

“Captain, would you please make arrangements to have a mock battle with me?” (Soldier)

“Sounds good,” (Johann)

It is not uncommon to be asked to practice the sword in this way. I picked up the sword which was leaning carefully against the wall of the room of the guard corps, and checked the metal fittings of the my armor This sword and armor were given to me directly by Georg-sama. It can never be handled shabbily. After I checked them firmly, I headed to the training ground which had been built behind the barracks, and while walking, I recalled every event that led up to this life of mine.

I call Georg-sama ‘His Excellency', because Cale and Nina, who serve at the side, have done so too. When asking what it means, they replied:  “It is said that you call the great one, who will lead you, like this.” I have been addressing Him that way since then. I do not know where they gained such knowledge, but it is apparent that His Excellency doesn’t mind it.

Dear Georg Stanford. Our lord, our parent, our brother, our comrade.

The guards often say such things. With pride in the fact that everyone is directly under his command, we are the only organization in this city with real manpower.

His Excellency, though he is a gentle and generous parent, will show us the face of a rigorous commander when he teaches us. His teachings are really tough, but they work. I would never have believed that swordplay can reach such a level as what I have now. I have challenged a great number of trials, and I always magically recover after having been beaten down.

“Do you think it is tough? Is it painful? … … I have to be strict with you. At least, if you are the only armed organization in this town, you guys, who are allowed to capture, watch or punish others, should have a cunning presence. Keep your mind open, keep being proud of your strength, and don’t live off of anyone else.  That is your mission. ” (Georg)

This was said in the training that was done at the beginning of the formation of the guard. At the time, His excellency was teaching rigorously in all departments, and his strict training broke my heart sometimes. However.

“It might be too strict for us guards…. please be a bit gentler?” (Soldier)

“Do not be stupid. There is no need for kindness, in the duties of the guard. They will be the military supervision of this city after a while. In some cases, battles may occur. To bear such a dangerous job, I have an obligation to train them with full power. It’s because they too are important family. In order to never let them die, it is necessary that they become stronger than anyone and anything else.” (Georg)

After the usual training, I heard such a conversation.

“……Your Excellency” (Johann)

This body is ready for the sake of your Excellency. The words of that person moved me, even when he wasn’t directly speaking those words to me.

Nowadays, the city is buzzing. The other day, my Excellency visited the city of Nidea and was ready to accept those who would become new residents.

Fields and fruit orchards, fis.h.i.+ng ports, houses, everything is transformed further and enriched by the hands of many people. And we are the ones to protect them.

“Captain, are you sure?” (Soldier)

I suddenly return to reality because of this voice. I noticed, we were at the training ground already.

“Oh, come at me from anywhere. You won’t delay my schedule.” (Johann)

Basically, our training is either sparring with wooden swords containing an iron core, or body training with our bare hands. Until the men are fit for the sword, they have to go through body training first.

“You will not keep saying that for long. I also want to show my presence to His Excellency as one of the guards. ” (Soldier)

“That’s good. Shall we, then?” (Johann)

“Yes!!” (Soldier)

In this way, the two start fighting in front of an audience. The audience watch the battle excitedly and the people who are fighting spare no effort with their movement. Recently, such a sight has become common.

In approximately three months, this town will accept new residents.