“Well, for starters, we all know that the ongoing war is for the mana stones,” Leo started the discussion, still holding the mug of ale in his left hand. “The current expeditions for new mining locations are an effort by the kingdom to solve the mana stone crisis.”

Mr. Bennet took a sip from his mug, slightly nodding in agreement.

“Due to the dangers lurking in the underground caverns, miners are considered a respectable job by many,” Jace continued, pouring himself another serving of ale. “Which is also why the compensation for mine guards are at least twice that of town guards. There is also…”

“It’s good that you boys have been paying attention in history class,” Mr. Bennet interrupted, trying to change the flow of the conversation. “But I am referring to what that really matters down there, ya know?”

The duo was baffled by Mr. Bennet’s question and soon fell silent. They were not entirely sure what Mr. Bennet meant by “what really matters”. After all, the things they were talking about were the standard information almost all citizens of Alferis knew about the mines.

“Say you boys were poisoned by a bluefang in the mines, how would you treat yourself without the use of an antidote?” Mr. Bennet questioned, fingers fidgeting about. “Or if you were to lose your way in a mine, how do you find your way out without the use of a torch?”

Jace took another sip from his mug, appearing to have understood what Mr. Bennet was talking about.

“You see, boys,” Mr. Bennet continued, scratching his beard with his index finger. “I am sure the military has taught you how to maim a deep-goblin or how to damage a mineral golem. But they have not thought you how to stay alive in times of emergency.”

Intrigued by Mr. Bennet’s speech, Leo placed his mug on the counter, paying full attention to what Mr. Bennet has to say.

“There may be times,” Mr. Bennet continued as he let out a light sigh. “When you find yourself in a sticky situation. Your entire party might’ve been ambushed, or you might have fallen into a hole in the ground with no one around to help you.”

Jace and Leo could not find any chance to speak up. These are indeed scenarios where they have yet to be taught to survive in.

“Certain skills were gained through experiences,” Mr. Bennet said, patting his waist. “While some were gained through painful lessons. Mostly regrets, really.”

There was a hint of sadness in the eyes of Mr. Bennet, before rapidly fading away. Jace wondered whether he would be overstepping the bounds if he were to pry deeper. This seemed to be something very personal to Mr. Bennet after all. However, a strong and tight clasp on his shoulder diverted his attention instead.

“…So,” a slow and monotonous voice spoke slowly behind Jace and Leo, hands still on their shoulders. “…Anyone remembers the fourth rule of basic military training?”

Jace froze up, his back straightening involuntarily. A chilling sensation ran down his spine, originating from the hand which is now clenching hard on his shoulder.

“…N-no alcoholic beverages until the end of t-training, Staff,” Leo stammered, with his mouth opening wide.

“…Go gather the others before I forget the meaning of “end of training”, recruit Fletcher.” Staff Bryce commanded, his tone similar to that of a midwinter draft.

“Yes, Staff!” Jace and Leo pretty much screamed, bouncing off their stools like cats that have seen a cucumber. Within seconds, they were back in the crowd, shouting at everyone. Staff Bryce then turned his attention to Mr. Bennet, his eyebrows slightly drooping to the sides.

“Sir…” Staff Bryce greeted Mr. Bennet, fingers rubbing his left temple. “Please refrain from giving my soldiers ale in the middle of the day…”

Mr. Bennet chuckled, pouring another mug of ale for himself.

“Come on Bryce, a little ale wouldn’t hurt no one, eh?” Mr. Bennet took a hearty gulp from the mug, complaining. “And also, I am no longer your “sir”, so stop calling me that would ya?”

“Retired or not, sir,” Staff Bryce protested, fingers still rubbing his temple. “You are still the renowned Silver-fanged beast of Alferis, sir.”

Mr. Bennet was obviously irked by what Staff Bryce said, waving his arm in response.

“That was a long time ago, young man,” Mr. Bennet replied, with a frown still plastered on his face. “That name would be more fitting in the history textbooks those young lads are reading.”

“…Stories of honor and glory, sir.” Staff Bryce whispered to himself.

The armory suddenly fell silent as the last recruit slipped through the door in fear. The recruits fell in outside the armory, awaiting further orders from Staff Bryce. Jace and Leo were amidst those in the front row, staring intently at Staff Bryce while hoping for him to recall the meaning of “end of training”. Nodding politely at Mr. Bennet, Staff Bryce made his way for the door.

“So where are the baby chicks going today?” Mr. Bennet asked inadvertently.

Staff Bryce stopped his feet just before the door, replying sternly before finally stepping out.

“To the mines, sir.”