As the last of the stretching exercises concluded, a collective panting swept through the assembled tribe members. Usato allowed them a brief moment to catch their breath, his gaze sweeping over their flushed faces. He then turned to Corporal Kael, who stood attentively nearby.
"Corporal Kael," Usato began, his voice now calm and measured, "for our daily training regimen, we will follow a structured approach. This will ensure comprehensive development in all the necessary areas."
He then detailed the four phases he had in mind. "First, as you've just witnessed, we will always begin with a thorough warm-up. This prepares the body for more strenuous activity and helps to prevent injuries."
Usato continued, "Second, we will focus on body cultivation. Initially, this will primarily involve skin tempering exercises, as we discussed. In the future, as their bodies adapt, we will gradually introduce more advanced techniques to strengthen their bones, tendons, and internal organs, following the principles of the cultivation methods I've been developing ."
He then moved on to the third component. "Third, we will conduct tactical drills. These will be tailored to our current circumstances and the challenges we anticipate facing in this new world. For example, today, we will practice formations and coordinated attacks specifically designed to target the vulnerabilities of creatures like the Iron-Backed Apes. These drills will incorporate the use of spears, bows, and coordinated movements to maximize our effectiveness in combat. Imagine, Corporal Kael, formations that flow like water, adapting to the enemy's movements, striking with the focused power of a lightning bolt!"
Finally, Usato outlined the last part of their routine. "Fourth and lastly, we will distribute the daily assignments. This will include tasks such as scouting patrols, resource gathering, and any other duties necessary for the troops' survival and progress. This ensures everyone understands their responsibilities for the day."
Usato looked at Corporal Kael, seeking his understanding. "This structured approach, starting with physical conditioning and moving into practical combat tactics and finally daily tasks, will build a strong foundation for our warriors and ensure the smooth functioning of our troops.
Usato looked at Corporal Kael, his gaze direct. "Instructions clear, Corporal?"
"Crystal clear, Sir!" Corporal Kael responded sharply, his voice carrying with a soldier's crispness, setting an example for the rest of the troops.
Usato nodded, his gaze sweeping over the assembled warriors. "That is all. Carry on with the training preparations as outlined." He then turned, his eyes scanning the group until they landed on two individuals. "Corporal Vala! Private Ren! Front and center!"
Vala and Ren immediately moved forward, their movements swift and disciplined.
"Corporal Vala," Usato addressed her directly, "your mission for this morning is reconnaissance. I want you and Ren to scout the location where we anticipate encountering the Iron-Backed Apes. Observe their numbers, their movements, and the lay of the land. Identify any potential advantages or disadvantages the terrain might offer us." He paused, then added with a subtle knowing look, "Report back to me with your findings before the commencement of tactical drills." Though Sky already has a detailed overview, it's important to maintain these protocols for the others.
With his orders issued, Usato watched as the troops, under the watchful eye of Corporal Kael, resumed their warm-up exercises. Satisfied that the training had commenced, Usato moved to a more secluded part of the training grounds.
Alright, Sky, let's kick this up a notch. Time to make some real progress with bone tempering. This is going to hurt.
'Acknowledged, Host. Initiating Bone Tempering sequence, Initial Stage protocol, incorporating rhythmic compression and release. Pain receptors will likely spike.'
Usato began his own warm-up routine, but at double the pace and repetitions of the main group. Where the troops performed twenty push-ups, Usato executed forty with perfect form. The same went for sit-ups, jogging, and stretches, each movement precise and powerful, a testament to his enhanced physicality and the foundation of his skin tempering. He knew this rigorous warm-up was essential to prepare his body for the agony that was to come.
Next, Usato focused his will. He channeled his internal energy, the unique cultivation method he and Sky were pioneering, towards his bones. He began the rhythmic compression and release technique. With each inhale, he forced his energy to compress around a specific bone in his hand. It felt like his very essence was being squeezed, a deep, grinding ache that resonated through his entire arm. His teeth gritted against the sharp, piercing pain that shot through the marrow. With each exhale, he would slightly release the pressure, but the relief was temporary, a fleeting moment before the next wave of agony crashed over him.
Sweat poured from his forehead, stinging his eyes. His muscles trembled from the sheer effort of maintaining focus and control through the torment. Each pulse of energy was a fresh assault, a reminder that he was treading a path no one in Kharon had ever dared to walk. He imagined his bones screaming in protest, yet he persisted, driven by an unshakeable resolve. He was the first, and the path of the pioneer was paved with pain. He knew medicinal baths would offer some respite later, but right now, it was a brutal test of his endurance.
Despite the intensely personal and agonizing nature of his training, the Evergreen Tribe members could see his dedication. They watched as their leader, who had brought them so far, pushed his body to what looked like its absolute limit, his face contorted in silent suffering. A profound sense of respect, bordering on awe, settled over them. Their own fatigue felt insignificant in comparison, replaced by a fierce determination to honor his sacrifice with their own hard work.
Just as Usato pushed through what felt like a significant cycle of compression on the bones in his legs, a deep ache settling within him, he finally eased the flow of energy. Alright, Sky, that's enough for this session. Need to let them recover.
'Agreed, Host. Notice Corporal Vala and Private Ren are waiting to report.'
Usato opened his eyes, the intensity in them slowly fading. He noticed Vala and Ren standing a respectful distance away, observing him. He nodded to acknowledge them. "Corporal Vala, Private Ren. You've returned. What have you found?"
"Sir, we located a group of Iron-Backed Apes within the gorge," Vala began, her tone professional and precise. "Our estimate is between six to seven individuals. They are indeed physically imposing, as the intel suggested. Their backs are heavily armored, the hide appearing incredibly thick and tough. We observed them attempting to dislodge rocks within the gorge, and their strength is considerable, easily sending large boulders tumbling down."
Ren, ever observant, added, "Their movements seem a bit clumsy when they aren't on all fours, Sir, but they are surprisingly agile when navigating the rocky terrain of the gorge. They appear to prefer the lower sections, near the water source."
Vala continued, "Their placement is somewhat dispersed, but there seems to be one larger ape, noticeably bigger and with a scar across its chest, that the others appear to defer to. It positioned itself on a slightly higher ledge overlooking the rest of the group. It's quite distinct, unlike the alpha wolf we encountered before."
'Sky, confirm Vala and Ren's report.' Usato thought internally.
'Affirmative, Host. Their observations align with the nanobot surveillance data. Six Iron-Backed Apes are present in the gorge, with one larger individual exhibiting alpha behavior and a distinct scar on its chest, positioned on a higher ledge. Their physical strength is significantly greater than that of the dark wolves.' Sky responded telepathically.
Nodding to himself, Usato called out, his voice resonating across the training grounds, "Corporal Kael! Vala! Elara! Syka! Gorthok! Assemble by the central fire. It's time to finalize our strategy."
His timing was opportune. The Evergreen Tribe members, their earlier training drills completed, were now moving about, some tending to the remnants of the roasted dark wolf, its rich aroma mingling with the sweet scent of foraged fruits.
Soon, the officers gathered around the crackling fire where a makeshift breakfast was being shared. Usato gestured for Vala and Ren to speak.
"Corporal Vala, please share your findings with the others."
Vala recounted their scouting mission, detailing the number of apes, their immense strength, their movements within the gorge, and the prominent alpha. Ren corroborated her observations, adding details about the terrain.
Once they had finished, Usato addressed his officers, taking a bite of roasted wolf meat. "As you've heard, these Iron-Backed Apes are a different caliber of threat compared to the wolves. Their strength is considerable, and their defenses are formidable. We need to adapt our approach."
He laid out his plan. "We will not engage them all at once. Our strategy will be to lure one ape at a time out of the gorge. Each group of our trainees, under the supervision of their respective corporals, will then have an opportunity to engage it."
Usato's gaze settled on Gorthok. "Gorthok, your strength will be crucial. You will act as the tank for every team. Your primary role will be to draw the ape's attention and absorb its powerful blows, providing an opening for the others to target its more vulnerable areas." He emphasized, "Remember, our unawakened recruits are still developing their strength. We will prioritize their safety while ensuring they gain valuable combat experience."