Chapter 13: Voices of Glory (Part 10: Final)

The test…

How would one know which Battalion to join? It was not our decision to choose. In fact, we could not even choose. The decision was thrust upon us. But how?

Via the Test of Solitude.

Like the one I received when I entered the room alone, back then in the Strategic Headquarters. That was where I found a crystal that was talking to me. This weird talking crystal beckoned me to touch it, or perhaps it was a her because I could hear a female voice instead. And after I had touched it, somehow it revealed the necessary information needed for me to be classified as a Blitz Elite. Well, not that I could complain about it, but the test seemed a little… off.

There was no test of ability, physical strength and prowess, magical power and cunningness. Just needed someone to enter a room and all will be revealed. Heh. As if something like that could decide where I would end up. But then again, according to Captain Selina, the crystal or whatever I saw back in the room was created by ancient magic with failsafe system factored in. I did not understand what the failsafe system meant, but then again, my understanding of magic was lousy. Magic was for the nerds and weak-bodied people, not someone young, healthy and physical fit like me. Or other than that, I have not aptitude for the understanding of magic and even less mana in my body to even cast one.

“Captain Selina. How many people would be joining us today?”

As she looked at me, she said dejectedly.

“I don’t know Claude. We, the Blitz, are far and few in between. We would be lucky enough to have one more.”

“Ohh… just one more? “

I can see that the Captain was pretty anxious herself. And because of that, I tried to cheer her up.

“Well, Captain Selina. If anything else, I’m all you need. Until you have the numbers you are satisfied with, you can take advantage of me and work me as hard as you want. Besides, I’m eager to show off myself and what I can do. To prove a point, you know. So, if there are too many people, my star would be overshadowed. I’m a princess saviour and a hero after all.”

“Hehehe, Claude. How thoughtful of you. But if you say so, I’ll take you up on it. Be prepared to work hard. And if you do, I might reward you with something special.”

Captain Selina winked at me mischievously. She was all smile again.

“Besides, you need to make a name for yourself so you could become closer to your Sier…”

“Captain Selina!! Please…. not here.”

“Hehehe… I’m just teasing you, Claude. But you might as well take this opportunity. Increase your fame and your skills and make me proud of you, young First Lieutenant!”

Captain Selina patted my back so hard which caused me nearly fell down.

“Hey, watch it. If I fall down, that’s not a good way to start off my path of hero-ship, ain’t it Captain?”

“A little pat on the back like that? How could it fell a great hero like you, Ser Claude?!”

Captain Selina continued to tease me as we arrived at the main courtyard. As soon as we reached, Captain Rizzou greeted us.

“Claude, Selina… I have some news for you. And unfortunately, it ain’t a good one.”

The facial expression of Captain Selina turned glum. But she tried to suck it up and be cheerful.

“So, no more new recruits for me then?”

Captain Rizzou shook his head. Captain Selina’s head hung down, dejected to hear the news.

I can’t let this atmosphere be glum like this. I need to do something fast.

“Captain Rizzou! Did you remember your advice that you had given to me earlier back in the hallway?”

Although surprised, Captain Rizzou nodded.

“Well, I think I’m all the help Captain Selina needed for now. Besides, I wouldn’t want any pansies or weaklings to be under MY Captain.”

I said that, emphasizing the word ‘MY’, as to let Captain Selina know that I’m thinking about her too.

“So for now, I’ll give two… no, three… perhaps four times of hard work more than anyone else. Until she finds the one that is strong and powerful enough to serve her, I’m all that she needs…”

“Claude…”

Captain Selina was taken by surprised of what I said earlier. However, Captain Rizzou, upon hearing my words, gave a hearty laugh.

“You hear that Selina? Your First Lieutenant is going to work extremely hard for you. Our princess saviour, our hero now has declared that he will be your hero this time.”

I could see tears forming at the corner of Captain Selina's eyes.

“If anything goes by, your squadron is as good as well taken care off. I have the feeling that he will do you and every one of us proud.”

“Captain Rizzou, thank you.”

“No, Claude. It’s thanks to you. And Selina…”

He then looked at Selina and smiled.

“Take care of Claude for me alright.”

She nodded enthusiastically and then gave me a bear hug out of nowhere.

“C-C-Captain Selina? We are in public.”

“Do I even care about that, Claude? You are the best thing that ever happened to me in a long time…”

She whispered to me while I’m still within her embrace.

“Claude… thank you. Really... I’m so, so thankful.”

With that, her tears flowed nonstop. But it was not the tears of sadness, yet happiness and joy. I never knew that one new recruit for her squadron would meant so much for her.

“Ehemm…”

Suddenly, the one who was left out, Captain Rizzou, interrupted us. But for a good reason too, it seemed.

“Selina… don’t you think Claude needs to take his uniform soon?”

“Ohh… yah. I nearly forgot about that.” Selina wiped her tears off as she smiled.

“Claude… you remembered that we Elites have three uniforms right? First is our Elite official uniform, like the one Captain Rizzou and I am wearing. Second is the ceremonial armour and third is our battle gear.” She reminded me yet again.

I nodded.

“Good. For today, you would received your first uniform, the Elite official wear. Your second uniform, the ceremonial armour will be fitted to you after achieved the rank of Captain. However, for your battle gear, we need to take your measurement and made it according to your size. But that will be for next time. I’ll tell you when to get it, alright.”

I nodded.

“I understand, Captain Selina.”

“So, what are you waiting for? Go get your uniform already under that tent over there with our crest. And I’ll see you tomorrow morning at 7.00 am here, in the main courtyard, alright.”

“Yes, Captain!”

I enthusiastically answered her.

“Don’t be late, you hear!!” Captain Rizzou reminded me as I took off towards the tent to take my uniform. As I left both of the Captains, I turned my head towards them and I could see them all smiles. Perhaps I have made them happy and proud.

I like this feeling. It makes me warm and fuzzy seeing someone you admired and respect all smiles and proud of you.

-----

As Claude’s silhouette disappeared into the tent, both Captain Rizzou and Captain Selina looked at each other. Captain Rizzou was the first to start talking.

“Ain’t he a special case, Selina?”

“Within his small height and frame, his shoulder carries lots of weight and responsibilities, unbeknown to him. You know how dangerous the Blitz Battalion, right? And somehow he knows no fear. Or perhaps he knows fear but he chose to act instead of being paralyzed by it.”

Captain Selina put her hand on her breast as she nodded.

“I know. That’s why I’ll make sure he’s always safe. I’ll watch over him, Rizzou. Don’t you worry.”

“Besides, he is my dearest First Lieutenant after all.” Selina face beamed with pride.

“Well, you have a fine First Lieutenant with you then. Watch him grow up. He might surprise you and me, given how much potential and hard work he has given until today.” Captain Rizzou patted his colleague’s shoulder as both of them looked towards the tent where Claude disappeared into.

“Well, he did surprise me already with his declaration earlier. It’s like a lover confessed to you how much he is willing to give his all, just to see you happy. Ain’t he a player, Rizzou?”

“Hahahaha… he is, Selina. He is, indeed.”