genessia | Winter Training Camp v. 1.0

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Winter Training Camp v. 1.0 - Week One

WHO: Winter Schnee, Hamusuke, Young Link, Navi, Ted Satchel, Mael Radec
WHAT: Five people ~~were crazy enough~~ signed up for Winter's rigorous training regiment, either to become part of the royal guard, or simply to improve their own skills. But the first week is going to be hell. If it's this punishing on just the first week, what will the other seven be like?
WHEN: November 4, 2017 - Early Morning
WHERE: Fayren

Winter sent the details three days in advance to Hamusuke, Ted, Radec, and Link (and by extension, Navi as well). It included a list of the gear they were allowed to bring as well as what they would be provided with, and a copy of the rules that they were under strict orders to follow as insubordination would lead to direct termination from her program. She would train only the best, and the best needed to put their egos and weaknesses aside to follow orders.

The other recruits were doing their absolute best not to cast confused glances at the non-natives that Winter had assembled: a giant hamster, a boy and his fairy companion, and...a clown? The other guy seemed like he might not even be human. They knew better than to question the captain, of course, but it was probably clear from their secretive shared glances that they really had no idea what to make of this, or whether they should be insulted to be put on the same level.

The training was to begin at 6 a.m. sharp, with all recruits assembled and standing in a single line formation just outside the castle walls. Winter's lieutenant, Terry Adams, was available to pass out gear and get the trainees lined up just the way the captain liked before she arrived. The earlier a recruit arrived, the better the chances of not immediately earning Winter's ire, as she made it clear that anyone who was even five seconds late would not be admitted into the training regiment.

Each recruit's breath was a fine, silvery mist in the pre-dawn hours. It was already frightfully cold for November, with temperatures firmly nestled at 32 degrees, not expected to get much higher than the low 40's. The grass was frosted and brittle, and the horses of the upper guardsmen snorted and pawed at the frozen ground to shake off the chill.

Then Winter arrived.

She was pristine and groomed, not a single white hair out of place, nor a goosebump visible on the skin bared by the slits of her ivory blouse. It was as if the cold simply didn't bother her, and perhaps it didn't. Compared to the snow and ice of her home country of Atlas, this was practically a pleasant summer vacation spot for her, and she couldn't care less for anyone who didn't see it that way. She cast a critical eye over each man and woman assembled, her expression never changing, not even when she surveyed the non-natives.

"You have all been briefed on my rules and expectations for this training course. I see no need to repeat them; see that you do not give me cause to do so." It was a warning, the only one they'd get. She paced further down the line, hands behind her back, and turned to repeat the process once she reached the end of the line. "I want each and every one of you to state why it is that you are here. What you hope to gain. What it is you wish to become. It is important that you establish this reason now, so that it will sustain you in the unpleasant days to come. This is no place for those with weak wills and fragile convictions. Private Scarla."

A mousy-haired woman stiffened slightly, lifting her chin higher. "To bring honor and pride to my family."

Winter inclined her head. She showed no sign of approval or disapproval, just an acknowledgment that the reply was sufficient.

"Private Zorel."

"To be as competent and respected as Lieutenant Adams, Captain."

Adams remained stony-faced, but there was a touch of pink in his face that Winter couldn't fail to notice.

"And you?"

Here she faced the gathered five. All of them were expected to respond, and evidenced by the hard stare Winter levied, that included Navi too.

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Link had a feeling that he was much more at ease than his fairy companion. "I'm here to learn. To get better, so I can help more people."

The boy was curious about nearly everything around him, from the horses, to the soldiers, to the giant hamster--but, he focused on Winter without letting his gaze wander.

[ Radec already didn't question the fact that they were out in the freezing cold and frowned. His hands were already behind his back. ]

"Col. Mael Radec, Helghast army, Ma'am. I am here to train myself to become stronger and avoid any weaknesses which plague me."

[Ted does a good job of avoiding any yawning; it'd take some getting used to, being off the night shift where he played vigilante. The weather's about as merciless as his new instructor is, distressingly. He's usually dressed for warmer climes. He glanced at the soulless soldiers Winter had seen fit to teach too. Drat. He was hoping for something more intimate; just the five (or so) of them.

Oh no, personal questions. Not his favorite; they tend so easily to egotism. Looks like she really, really expects something. Um...]

"To please Star, and to have enjoyment and expansion."

Edited 2017-11-06 05:04 (UTC)

[ Hamusuke isn't bothered by the cold. Her fluff keeps her warm. She stands at a quadrupedal version of attention.]

I desire to gain the strength to face new challenges, that I do.

Next to Link, hovering around the air was his fairy partner, Navi. Navi remained close to Link as possible.

"I'm here to help and guide Link to fulfill his wishes anyway I can, even if it means I have to be honest."

With that said, Navi bounced in the air once followed with a chime.

Winter listened to each response carefully, thoughtfully. And yet, like the others, her face betrayed nothing of her thoughts. Their goals were theirs; it was up to them just how much those goals were personally valued as it was for their own benefit. Not Winter's.

"The next eight weeks will not be pleasant. The food will be cold, and simple fare. Your bodies will ache. The weather will not always be favorable. You are advised to keep your complaints to yourselves, for they will not improve your situation. Pick up your gear."

Lieutenant Adams made a swift motion with his hand, and the recruits broke formation to take up their packs and heft them up onto their shoulders. Their weapons were buckled into place or slung over their shoulders. They had 30 seconds to comply before Winter turned on her heel and released her hands.

"We have a five mile trek ahead of us. It is fortunate that you will not have to make the hike in the snow. March!" she barked crisply.

"This way," Lieutenant Adams stated. "Single formation, don't cluster too tightly together now."

Winter had already begun, her long legs carrying her over the grass and further down the packed dirt that marked the main road to the castle. Half a mile down that road, she turned to the left, climbing a steep embankment. It didn't seem to slow her in the least.

The path she took no longer followed any trail, and her pace was brisk and punishing. Those with shorter legs might find it hard to keep up with her, especially for five miles, but occasionally the lieutenant would give someone's pack a little nudge of encouragement.

Day had broken over the horizon by the time they reached their destination -- a broad, flat circle surrounded by towering trees and ragged stumps. To the left was a trickling stream, one that would become a hearty rushing river in a rainstorm. Many of the recruits were panting for breath but grateful for the rest.

Winter turned to face them.

"You have half an hour to set up your tents, refill your waterskins, and eat the rations supplied to you. I would advise you not to fill your bellies too full, or it will make the five-mile run rather difficult. Break!"

The soldiers moved apart, choosing spots to situate their tents. Some chose to place their belongings close to the fire; others preferred to be near the river. Others still preferred to be further apart than the rest and chose more solitary locations.

Thus far, Link was a fairly happy kid. No monsters had tried to attack them, which really would have slowed things down. The weather wasn't too awful. And they weren't trekking up the face of an active volcano. Walking, or marching in this case, didn't bother him. It was how he had gotten from place to place in Hyrule, after all.

He looked at Navi cheerfully, while he filled his waterskin, hoping she was as pleased with things as he was.

"Where should we put our tent up, Navi? D'you think we really need it?"

[ Radec already was on pace to catch up with Winter, preferring short and quick bursts as he frowned, ignoring the chills on him. Weakness was for the ISA. ]

"... Yes, Ma'am."

[ The soldier was already walking over to the rushing water, and held tight to his waterskin filling what he could and taking a sip.

His tent was closer to in between both necessities. He had to make do on what he had so he started to place up his tent. It was up within a good 10 minutes. He then chose to sit by the fire, and eat a bit of his rations, making sure not to fill up. After taking what he wanted, he sipped a bit of water. He had cut a bit of rations off, preferring not to get too messy. After he did so, he dipped his knife in the water and wiped it off. ]

Edited 2017-11-09 00:10 (UTC)

Navi survived surprisingly, the weather wasn't that bad and if anything, she would hid under Link's hat if it was too cold for her wings. Navi didn't really need supplies and thus allowed Link to pick up the sac and went along with it.

She was pleased at Link's effort no doubt. It was harsh, but at the same time it felt normal, home. The poor fairy had her adventures with the fairy boy after all.

"Hmm..." Navi said when Link asked. "How about..." She fluttered to a patch of grass. Well, they are from the forest. "Maybe over here is okay? I'll help too!"

She could pull a rope or hold a pole, or something. Navi wasn't going to let Link do all the work.

Link nodded. "That looks like a good place. "

His grin brightened when she offered to help. Things were so much better now that she was around again.

"Okay, and then we'll eat a little bit. Do you think the old people can run that far?" He asked, while busying himself with tent-prep.

Ted's physical conditioning had been seen to by a woman so severe even Winter would have a run for her money. He's used to wandering and walking aimlessly for long stretches of time, too, though not quite so encumbered. Still, the march proves easy enough. He likes his traveling companions most of all, often giggling lightly to himself at the assembled motley crew. He liked Link, who seemed like a (young) man after his own heart. He had been practically raised on romances and fairy tails, so Navi was another delight. Ted loved the rude creatures on God's green earth, and cast adoring glances at Hamsuke, ugly though her tail is. And then there's Radec, who freed him from the burden of being the only adult man of the group.

Fortunate, for Ted would cast off any illusions of responsible maturity very soon. He liked nature walks, but this one was taking a while with no satisfaction in sight. No one seemed especially talkative, either. He understands testing their physical endurance, but one's tolerance for boredom? Not on his watch!

"Let's have a marching song!"

That's the only warning their procession gets before he begins. For what it's worth, his singing voice is professionally trained. And hey, Winter never said he couldn't.

Let martial note in triumph float
And liberty extend its mighty hand
A flag appears 'mid thunderous cheers,
The banner of the Western land.
The emblem of the brave and true
Its folds protect no tyrant crew;
The red and white and starry blue
Is freedom's shield and hope...

Eventually someone would probably tell him to shut up. But if not, he'll go through the rest of the verses, repeatedly, if necessary, until everyone else knew the lyrics well enough to sing America's praises too(as they should).

Running would be a challenge, but one he'd meet with his usual childlike verve. Tent-making?

Not so much.

He's not opposed to sleeping under the stars, but he'd like to succeed in every endeavor. Surely someone else can learn him this tangle of ropes and pegs. He looks happily bewildered, looking for someone more competent than himself. He needs a helping hand. Failing that, he'll look over another's shoulder and mimic as best he can.

Edited 2017-11-09 23:04 (UTC)

[Golly, that must be some sort of tent-pitching record! If Radec doesn't look too absorbed, Ted will inquire.]

"Goodness! Admirable celerity. If you've time and charity enough, could you show me the same?"

Edited 2017-11-09 21:49 (UTC)

Once he gets a feel for the melody, Link pulls an ocarina from his tunic and plays along with Ted. He sees nothing wrong with a little music as they march.

The pack is too large for Hamusuke's cheek pouch, but not built for her four legged body. She grabs it with her tail and sets it awkwardly over her back.

The most difficult part of marching is staying with the group, and making sure not to accidentally trample anyone. Hamusuke has roughly the size and speed of a horse. She also gets easily distracted by whispered grumbling, and familiar or interesting scenery.

Hamusuke has no clue on how to set up a tent. It ends up looking more like a nest to lie down on. At least the waterskin is easier to fill. She keeps it in her cheek pouch.

It wasn't immediately obvious, with Winter being so far up ahead and leading the way.

But with every repeated verse, her shoulders knotted up a little tighter, and her gloves creaked as her fists clenched harder and harder.

There was so much annoyance in that pristine and uptight warrior. However, knowing that her annoyance was supremely personal and that troop morale was worth preserving, she kept her silence and instead determined that she would have to increase the difficulty of their exercises. If they could march and still have enough breath to sing, then clearly they weren't working hard enough.

Nothing wrong?

Mah boi, this (music) piece is what all true warriors strive for!

Ted's surprised Winter didn't snap at him for it. He's doubly surprised that Link saw fit to bust out woodwind accompaniment. Once the song concludes, he wastes no time praising.

"Link! I didn't know you for a virtuoso! And such an adaptable one, too. Thank you, that was lovely. Though you know, perhaps this isn't the kind of thing to be doing."

Ted pauses, thoughtfully. Something's missing. But what? Suddenly, Ted finds his eureka moment.

"Of course! It's Sunday! We ought to be having more faithful fare: hymns!"

He cleared his throat and sang anew.

...I have read a fiery gospel writ in burnished rows of steel:
"As ye deal with my contemners, so with you my grace shall deal";
Let the Hero, born of woman, crush the serpent with his heel,
Since God is marching on...

They did have to skip morning services for this, after all. Not to mention the Christmas season was coming up; they'd have to practice their caroling!

So a precedent was set for the coming weeks. And Winter said they'd have no fun! Ted made it his personal goal to get the entire unit caught up in song. He'd do this as often as Winter's abusive regiment allowed.

[ As soon as the Helghan finished his own tent, he was about to sit down. Ted's music made him sigh, not that he hadn't heard music before, it was better than nothing.]

"I'm not setting up the tent for you, if that is what you meant."

[ Radec frowns and warms near the fire. ]

[OOC: Sorry Ted, Radec's coldhearted. Perhaps you might convince him sooner than later.]

[Link smiled before looking puzzled an a little lost. Other religions were a new thing to him.]

Din, Farore, or Nayru?

[Still, he listened and found the melody fairly easily. This song was made for marching.]

[Ted's nothing if not doggedly persistent, following at Radec's heels if necessary.]

"Oh, certainly not! You know the idiom: give a man a tent, shelter him for a day, and so on. Just instruction that's all; then I'll never need bother you nor anyone again. If you please and have time enough, mind."

[Ted keeps the question in mind for after the song, then picks up as though they'd never left off.]

Sorry, I'm unfamiliar with the allusion. What, or who, are those? Except, heh, perhaps the first one; that I recognize, as in "Some might say we were making a great din."

Goddesses. The three goddesses that created the world.

[Link paused.]

My home world, at least.

[HEATHEN]

"...huh. Three of them, eh? A trinity. Why more than one? Doesn't seem quite parsimonious."

[Talking to the child about religion didn't seem wise. Using words like that can't have been much wiser.]

Radec eyed Ted almost with a glare, "You sure are persistent, aren't you?"

"You can keep asking me, but I am not a weak man, Ted."

"You think so? Thank you."

[That must be a compliment.]

"Oh, I'm sure. A weak man probably wouldn't have survived the trek. You've some experience on your feet, I take it?"

[If he can't have tent lessons, he can at least have conversation. Even better!]

Radec frowned

"I've done a lot on my feet at home. I've fought ISA invaders, led my people the Helghast and ran a military academy."

Ted did the opposite of frowning.

"Interesting! Haha, makes one wonder what on earth you're doing here, then. Goodness knows you don't need the practice. ISA? Helghast? What do those consist of?"

Sorry Radec, you've activated his curiosity. It will never end.

Din created the land. Nayru created the law, and Farore, all the life to uphold the law.

"Ah, I see. What an...interesting motive. Created to uphold a law that, until the living appeared, couldn't have possibly bound anyone? The alliteration's sensibly pleasing, at least. The living, land to live on, and a law to lead the land-bound living."

[What went through these goddess' heads he doesn't know, but figures it's futile to probe the ten year-old much more. Back to merry marching melodies.]

And, when they left the world, they left behind the Triforce.

[Link happily marched along, amused at a few of the adults getting winded.]

Radec knew Ted won't stop asking until he tells him.

"I wanted to prove something is all."

The Helghast are a proud people, hard working and strong. We worked our way out of nothing to have the Interplanetary Space Alliance take it all away.

If Ted looked of Radec's armor, he'd see a little sign of his people.

The ISA are scum and nothing more.

Edited 2018-01-15 23:37 (UTC)

"They certainly sound so, given your description!"

Granted, most things like that are pretty one-sided. Everyone thinks they're the good guy, Ted included. Still, he offers the benefit of the doubt. The benefit of an easy conversation with an end in sight, however, he does not.

"And what's this something you'd like to prove?"

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Winter Training Camp v. 1.0 - Week One

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