"Just Another Day" (L’Renouille) Morning was apparent in the halls of L’Renouille Castle. All around, the citizens began their morning rituals of rising from slumber and starting a brand new day. The same went for General Krugan, although unlike most others, he did not mind the ordeal of getting up in the morning as most people did. Krugan exited his quarters fully dressed in his armor, which was covered with his general’s coat. His sword Radiant, a long & thin but extremely durable sword, dangled in its scabbard at his side underneath his coat. He made his way down the hall to the dining quarters, and waited until a servant served his usual breakfast; sausage links and home fries. Krugan ate his breakfast quickly, but still minded his manners. After he was finished, he thanked the servant and handed her a nice sized amount of potch for her efforts. Stunned, the servant watched as General Krugan exited the dining hall. “His kindness never ceases to amaze me.” She thought. Krugan then made his way to the stables, and fetched his horse Torrent, a pure white steed. At the stable, he met up with Roland Brody. Roland was Krugan’s Lieutenant General, which is basically his assistant. He was originally one of Ruka’s White Wolf troops, but Krugan asked Prince Ruka for his promotion. After some hesitation, he agreed. Not only was Roland a good all around soldier, but also have been good friends since Krugan entered the Highland army. Roland greeted Krugan as he approached Torrent’s stable. “Good morning Lord Krugan.” Roland said. Krugan grinned. “You don’t have to call me that here. Just in front of the troops.” Roland laughed. “Heard any word of Seed’s return?” he inquired. Krugan nodded as he mounted his steed. “He’s scheduled to report back today. I wonder if he got word of Prince Ruka’s latest victory.” Roland got on his horse as well. “I’m not sure. What plans do you have for the troops today?” Krugan thought for a moment. “We’ll start off with the basic calisthenics, followed by strength, agility, and endurance drills, and then we’ll split them up by weapon to practice.” Roland smirked. “So it’s basically the same as everyday?” he said. Krugan smiled. “Exactly,” Krugan said. “Giddy-up!” Krugan yelled, as his horse took off for where Krugan’s battalion was waiting. Roland followed close behind. Krugan’s troops were waiting for him on the outskirts of L’Renouille, all waiting for their general to arrive. Krugan and Roland arrived. After Krugan quickly surveyed the soldiers, he stopped Torrent front and center and addressed them. “Listen up men. With Prince Ruka victorious at Ryube, all we need is to take down the Mercenary Fortress south of Ryube to take control of that section of Jowston. Soon it will become time to deploy, so I want double the effort today so you will be ready when we are called upon. Is that clear?” “SIR YES SIR!” every troop shouted in unison. “Good. Let’s start with our calisthenics.” Krugan said. Krugan, Roland, and all of the cavalry troops dismounted their horses. Krugan then lead the troops in their calisthenics, which included pushups, sit-ups, jumping jacks, etc. Krugan always did these with his troops, partly for his own benefit and partly for troop morale. After about fifteen minutes worth, Krugan made them run their everyday drills. Krugan had devised certain exercises that improved their agility, strength, and endurance. He surveyed them with Roland for many hours, and then had them break for lunch. After lunch, he gathered them together again. “Ok, it’s time to split up. I want close range fighters to the right and archers to the left. Roland will work with the archers, and I’ll work with the footmen.” Krugan said. Each of the soldiers got to the appropriate side depending on their weapon. More drills commenced to improve the soldier’s skill with their weapon. After a couple hours of training, Krugan and Roland switched, and the exercises continued for more hours. When the sun started to set, Krugan gathered his troops together one last time. “Good job men. Get some rest, and be ready for tomorrow. Now, go get some dinner!” Krugan exclaimed. The soldiers cheered because of the end of the day, and stampeded to the mess hall like a herd of cattle. Krugan and Roland mounted their steeds, and headed to the stables to return their horses. As he headed towards the castle gates, he saw Seed entering the castle. “I’ll have to talk to Seed later and update him on the news.” Krugan thought. He then headed into the castle to order some food and rest after a long, tiresome day.
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