The Sword Camp stretched wide on the eastern side of the main training complex. The field was filled with the clashing sounds of metal, shouted commands, and dust rising from the hard-packed ground under thousands of feet. This was where Bima began his new day as a prospective soldier of the Kingdom of Korasium.
That morning, all new recruits were gathered in the center of the main field. They stood in neat rows, upright under the rising sun. A tall, well-built man with short hair and a fierce expression walked to the center. His name was Instructor Ragas, the head trainer of the Sword Camp.
"Welcome to the spearhead of the kingdom's defense," he shouted. His voice was deep and firm. "You have been selected to join the Sword Camp, the place where true soldiers are forged. Here, the sword is not merely a killing tool, but a part of your soul!"
He held up two types of shields—one large and heavy, the other small and light.
"This camp is divided into two main functions. The Defensive Unit, using large shields to block enemy attacks at the front lines. And the Offensive Unit, moving swiftly with small shields to break through enemy defenses."
He scanned the faces of the recruits.
"You will choose your path later, after completing the first two weeks of training. But before that, your bodies must be prepared. A sword is useless in weak hands!"
A collective shout echoed in response, though some recruits looked hesitant.
Days 1 to 3:
Training began with physical fundamentals. Early each morning before the sun fully rose, they had to run ten laps around the field. Those who lagged behind were given five extra laps. Then came 100 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, and a five-minute plank. By midday, after a short rest, strength training resumed: carrying 30-kilogram sandbags around the arena.
Bima, accustomed to hard work and years of self-training in his village, showed no signs of exhaustion. Though sweat drenched his body and his muscles ached, he kept moving. Others began to collapse. Some fainted, others vomited at the edge of the field.
Days 4 to 7:
The training intensified. Recruits were made to sprint repeatedly, climb artificial hills with weight on their backs, and practice breathing control in shallow pools. Instructor Ragas emphasized the importance of lung endurance and body control.
One of the most grueling sessions was "still training"—standing motionless with a sword held overhead for an entire hour. Many trembled, fell, or cried from the pain in their shoulders. But Bima stood tall. He stared forward, his teeth clenched. In his mind, he repeated Pak Tanu's words: "Courage is moving forward despite fear."
Days 8 to 10:
Hand-to-hand combat training began. Additional field instructors were brought in. They taught rolling techniques, dodging, takedowns, and how to maintain control on unstable ground. Weapon training started with wooden swords as substitutes. Recruits paired off and engaged in mock battles.
Bima faced a tough opponent, a tall youth named Karun, but managed to hold his own and match the techniques taught. The instructors began to notice him.
Days 11 to 14:
The peak of the two-week training was group combat simulations. Recruits were divided into small teams and assigned missions: defend from attacks or capture the enemy flag. Here, the difference between defense and offense became evident.
Bima was chosen as a team leader. He led three newly acquainted teammates in a defensive mission. Using a simple yet effective strategy, he assigned one teammate to guard the left flank with a large shield, one on the right with a fast blade, while he balanced the center.
They successfully held off attacks for the full fifteen minutes. Instructor Ragas nodded in approval from a distance.
At the end of the fourteenth day, all recruits were gathered again. Instructor Ragas stood on a simple stage.
"Congratulations. You've passed the most grueling phase. Starting tomorrow, you will choose: will you be the iron wall on the front line, or the sword that pierces enemy ranks? That choice will shape your future training."
Bima gazed at the darkening sky. His body ached, but his heart burned with determination. He knew the road ahead was long, but his first steps had begun strong.
And he would not retreat.