At that moment, everyone recalled the days two years prior when Xiao Man was still among them, practicing the sword alongside everyone else.

“Exactly,” Chen Kun said, a touch sheepishly. “I even remember knocking your sword clean away back then.” Hearing this, everyone recalled Xiao Man’s clumsy figure from two years ago. Yet, their faces held varying degrees of discomfort. I, too, was pulled from my reverie.

“Indeed, two years,” Xiao Man murmured reflectively. “After mastering the Basic Swordsmanship, I left the village to travel. Here I stand again today, two years later, but now I am a High-Tier Mid-Stance warrior. I don't mean to boast, but I want you to understand one thing: nothing is absolute. With my aptitude, I reached this level in just two years. Therefore, with your aptitudes, you can achieve the same, perhaps even surpass me to reach the Crimson Moon level.” As he spoke, Xiao Man swept his gaze across the assembly, finding their eyes burning with intense anticipation.

I, too, was profoundly shaken by Xiao Man’s words. Yes, what he said was undeniably true. Xiao Man had shattered their preconceived notions through his own actions. In that instant, an inexplicable surge of power and longing flooded my being. What exactly had Xiao Man endured in these two years? How could his strength have advanced this far in such a short span? Thinking this, I instinctively clenched my fists. I eagerly awaited the answers Xiao Man held for us.

“I cannot tell you everything I experienced while I was away these past two years. However, based on what I have learned, I have compiled a training regimen that is definitely viable. While I dare not guarantee every one of you will reach High-Tier Mid-Stance like me, the one thing I guarantee is this: if you follow my instructions, your cultivation progress will be more than three times what it was.” Xiao Man did not answer the questions swirling in their minds, yet he made a promise equally stunning.

“What? Triple?” Jialuo gasped in shock. “How is that possible?”

It wasn't just him; I was equally stunned into silence by Xiao Man’s proclamation. Triple. What did that imply? If the training speed of warriors could increase threefold, what kind of scenario would unfold? I couldn't begin to imagine.

“This can’t be real, to actually have such a method!” The crowd immediately erupted into a clamor, everyone chattering amongst themselves.

“If it’s true, the training intensity must be terrifying, right?”

That was precisely what I thought as well. There was no such thing as a free lunch; no effort meant no reward.

“Someone might actually die,” Abe voiced his worries, looking deeply troubled.

The scene reached an apex of fervor. Meanwhile, I wrestled with the credibility of Xiao Man’s claims.

.............................

“Do not doubt!” Xiao Man, seemingly reading their thoughts from across the square, boomed. “Am I not the best proof?”

The murmuring stopped as everyone turned to look at Xiao Man. If anyone else had made such claims, they would surely have dismissed it as nonsense. But Xiao Man was different. What had happened to him was a visible, irrefutable fact to them all. No one harbored any doubt. At that moment, the reservations in my mind dissolved. In my memory, Xiao Man never lied.

“Starting today, I will implement this training method. But before that, I must state clearly: this regimen is extremely rigorous and vastly different from our previous methods. I am giving you fair warning—if you wish to withdraw now, there is still time. I do not wish to force anyone. However, I must emphasize one point: once you agree to my training, you must unconditionally submit to my arrangements. Otherwise, I have the right to petition the Clan Head to revoke your professional warrior status.”

...........................

Silence fell over the square once more. Everyone’s expression was etched with longing and resolve. Yes, at this moment, no one could refuse such a temptation. Success was within sight. A threefold increase in training speed meant that achieving the Crimson Moon level within their lifetime was no longer an unreachable dream. Although stripping someone of their Clan Retainer warrior status was a severe punishment, facing such a bounty, everyone was willing to risk everything.

“Please coach us! We can endure any level of rigorous training,” Jialuo roared, his eyes blazing with desperate, fervent desire. If Xiao Man’s claims were true, how far could Jialuo—with his natural talent—possibly develop? No one could guess. Facing such a reward, Jialuo was undoubtedly the most eager. But would Xiao Man truly be this generous? I mused inwardly. If it were me, I would never reveal such a method. After all, with my aptitude, undergoing the same training as Jialuo wouldn’t allow me to surpass him. Xiao Man surely knew this too. Could he really be this selfless?

“Very good,” Xiao Man smiled. “If anyone wishes to withdraw, step forward. There is still time.”

The field remained utterly silent.

Don’t be ridiculous. Even if someone held a blade to my neck right now, I wouldn’t give up. I assumed everyone else felt the same way.

“So, you all agree?” Xiao Man confirmed loudly once more.

“Yes!” everyone shouted back involuntarily.

“Excellent! From today forward, I officially begin training you. I hope you all live up to your promise and can endure my training curriculum!” In Xiao Man’s eyes, there was a distinct air of authority and sharpness. In that instant, I had a bizarre illusion—it felt as if Big Brother Feng, not Xiao Man, was standing on the field. The past Big Brother Feng always instilled that chilling sense of awe. To think I could feel that same aura emanating from Xiao Man today! Xiao Man had truly changed. He was no longer the innocent boy he once was; he had grown, matured into an outstanding warrior worthy of respect, just like Big Brother Chen Feng. I, too, must become like him.

“We will absolutely persevere!” everyone shouted with all their might.

Xiao Man continued, “Before training officially starts, there is one more thing to clarify. To rapidly boost everyone’s strength and to unify our training, starting today, all meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—must be taken here at the training ground. Soon, when the Clan Head vacates the large residence in the West Garden, our living quarters will also move there. Thus, both training and accommodation will be militarized. Please prepare yourselves mentally.”

“Wow, militarized!”

“Heh heh, this sounds interesting.”

A cold knot formed in my stomach. It seemed Xiao Man’s training was indeed going to be extremely strict if even their eating and sleeping arrangements were to be centralized.

....................

“Alright, everything that needed to be said has been covered. Does anyone have any further questions?”

“None! Please coach us strictly!” Thunderous roars echoed from the surrounding crowd.

“Excellent!” Xiao Man seemed greatly satisfied with the outcome. “Uncle Wei, would you please come forward?” With that, Xiao Man escorted Uncle Wei into the center of the square, leaving us rather puzzled. It seemed Uncle Wei and the others hadn't just come to watch the spectacle.

“From today onward, the first item in your daily training will be strengthening your leg power and overall stamina. Simultaneously, to accommodate the village's production needs, I have arranged a task for you: transporting ore from the mining area to Uncle Wei’s blacksmith shop. Each person must move twelve baskets daily, with a three-hour time limit. If you exceed the time limit, there will be a penalty!” As he finished, Xiao Man flashed a mischievous smile. “The penalty is forfeiting breakfast.”

“Ah!”

“What?”

“I thought the punishment would be more severe. Just missing one meal?” I felt a touch of confusion. Somehow, I sensed things wouldn't be that simple.

“However, to prevent any slackening or negligence!” Xiao Man continued, “the completion of this task will be calculated per group. This means that if your assigned group fails to complete the quota, the penalty will not just fall upon the individual who failed, but the entire squad you belong to.”

There was indeed a follow-up. I was slightly startled. Under these conditions, those with weaker abilities would truly drag everyone down. Thinking of this, I couldn't help but glance at Abe, who wore an equally worried expression.

“The purpose of this arrangement is not only to forge powerful warriors but also to teach you the importance of teamwork. Only by fully utilizing group strength can you overcome all difficulties and achieve final victory,” Xiao Man explained.

It must be said, Xiao Man’s reasoning held significant weight. Only by embodying team spirit could maximum strength be unleashed. Everyone nodded instinctively.

“Of course, a single missed breakfast is too light a punishment. Therefore, any team that fails to meet the standard will face an additional penalty. That team will be responsible for cleaning every latrine in the village, including the pigsty and the cattle sheds,” Xiao Man stated, once again flashing that roguish grin. “Don't worry, I've already spoken to the villagers. They are very happy to have your help.”

“What? How can this be? We’ll suffocate from the stench!”

“I’m most afraid of the smell of pig manure!” Someone couldn't help but retch.

“The audacity! We are dignified warriors, yet you make us clean toilets!” A voice immediately protested loudly.

Damn, Xiao Man’s move is truly brilliant. I pictured the scene: a warrior scrubbing a latrine. The loss of face would be total.

“Listen clearly, I said teams that fail to complete the task,” Xiao Man smiled mildly. “Surely you don’t lack confidence in yourselves to this degree? Remember, the power of the team is the crucial magic weapon to overcome all obstacles.”

“I see now,” Jialuo declared confidently. “I think this punishment is perfectly appropriate. No matter how strong an individual is, their contribution remains limited.”

“Exactly. This is the only way to highlight the importance of team spirit,” Chen Kun, our squad leader, also said confidently, though he looked towards Abe and me with concern. “You two need to work hard. You are the two weakest in stamina in our squad; don't drag us down!”

“Hmph, don’t look down on us! No matter what, we will finish the workload!” Abe and I shouted back fiercely.

“That’s best!” Chen Kun muttered darkly.

At this point, no one dared to wear an easy smile. Cleaning toilets was unequivocally an act that stripped one of honor. These young warriors, who valued honor above life itself, could never tolerate such a thing happening to them. Therefore, fighting tooth and nail to complete the task became their only choice.

“Alright, I’ve explained everything,” Xiao Man said, turning to Uncle Wei. “Uncle Wei, which sector is today’s hauling assignment?”

“It’s Sector Four, south of the village,” Uncle Wei said excitedly. “From now on, I will write the destination for the day’s hauling on this board.” With that, Uncle Wei used charcoal to write the words “Sector Four” on the board affixed to the wall. “The rest is in your hands, everyone.”

“Discussion time is over. Morning practice begins now. The task concludes at eight o’clock sharp,” Xiao Man bellowed.

“Yes!” The warriors roared back in unison and charged out towards the village entrance in neat ranks, causing the villagers to open their windows and stare in astonishment at this group of crazed youths.

“They really are a lively bunch of lads,” Uncle Wei remarked thoughtfully.

“Heh heh,” Xiao Man chuckled dryly. “Don’t forget what you promised me, Uncle.”

“Aren’t they just two hundred sets of Ebony Armor?” Uncle Wei waved it off. “I’ll have them ready within a week. But aren’t these Ebony Iron Armors a bit too heavy? One hundred and fifty catties—heavier than War God Armor!”

“What? Are you feeling sentimental about the materials?” Xiao Man teased.

“Not at all!” Uncle Wei replied. “If we were calculating payment, those two hundred sets of Ebony Iron Armor wouldn't even cover the small change. But is this extremely heavy armor really meant for them to wear?”

“You’ll know when the time comes. I’ll have many more things to trouble you with in the future.”

“You rascal, you always have so many schemes!” Uncle Wei said enthusiastically. “But this way, I won’t have to spend a fortune on transportation fees daily to move that ore.”

“That’s what I call making the best use of resources,” Xiao Man said. “Young men have nothing but strength to spare; it’s a waste not to use it.”

“Haha, that makes sense,” Uncle Wei laughed heartily.

If Ah Da and Abe had heard this conversation, they would surely have coughed up blood in anger.

“Then, Aunt Xia, are the plowing tools ready?”

“They are ready, just waiting for them to reach the fields,” Aunt Xia also looked excited. “I never thought you had this method up your sleeve. Heh heh, now Gani and the others can rest in peace, knowing that at least the fields their families own will be tended to.”

“It’s nothing,” Xiao Man said softly. “Gani and the others died fighting to protect the village. Their remaining widows and orphans simply do not have the ability to cultivate those lands. It’s only right that these young warriors fulfill a small part of their obligation.”

“However, the responsibility for their breakfast falls to you,” Xiao Man smiled. “As the saying goes, growing boys can bankrupt their fathers, let alone these spirited young men.”

“Don’t worry,” Aunt Xia assured him. “I will arrange everything.”

...............................

After Aunt Xia and Uncle Wei departed, Xiao Man swiftly hurried to catch up with the warriors’ procession.

Inside the mine shaft, the space was already packed with dense rows of wicker baskets, each brimming with dark ore.

Uncle Wei’s assistant, Wei Ning, guarded the mine entrance.

“Ah, you’ve come,” Wei Ning greeted Jialuo and the others with delight. “Just take the baskets marked with your team’s number. Remember, don’t mix them up, or all your work will be for nothing.”

“Got it,” Jialuo immediately found the number belonging to the First Squad. “Everyone, hurry up! We still have dozens of trips to make.”

“Right.” Soon, the warriors lifted the baskets piled on the ground onto their backs.

1708, I immediately located the basket marked with my own number and eagerly hoisted it onto my back.

Ah! It was so heavy! Caught completely off guard, I nearly sank to my knees. Others were in a similar predicament.

“Heh heh, keep it up! Each of these baskets weighs two hundred catties,” Wei Ning chuckled maliciously. “These baskets were custom-made just for you.”

“No wonder it’s so heavy. I remember before, a basket was only about one hundred and twenty catties,” I managed to force myself back onto my feet. With prior warning, I avoided the previous embarrassment.

“That was for the guards, wasn't it? How could you compare yourselves to the guards when you are warriors?” Wei Ning retorted.

“That does make sense,” Chen Kun gave a dry laugh.

“Set off for Uncle Wei’s blacksmith shop immediately!” Jialuo commanded loudly. “Don’t forget, if we don’t complete the task, we’re cleaning toilets!”

“Roar! Faster!” The captains of each squad urged anxiously; no one wanted to draw that particular assignment.

Soon, each squad was organized and quickly charged out of the mining area.

I followed closely behind the main body of the team.

“Everyone be careful out there!” Wei Ning called out. “The way back isn’t as smooth as you think!”

“What is that guy talking about?”

“Don’t worry about him, stay focused!”

................................

“One-two-one, one-two-one…” The warriors chanted their cadence while marching rapidly. The ore in the baskets on their backs weighed at least two hundred catties, but as warriors, this weight was still within our tolerable range. Though somewhat strenuous, Abe and I could generally keep up with the group's pace.

Soon, we arrived at the bank of the Jing River. However, the bridge across the river was crowded. Upon closer inspection, it was Carpenter Lu Da Shu and his apprentices.

“Hey! Uncle, please make way so we can cross!” Jialuo called out.

“That won’t do,” Uncle Lu pointed toward a row of narrow plank bridges along the riverbank. “Your path is over there. My apprentices and I worked through the night to build these for you.”

“Ah, plank bridges!” All the warriors couldn't help but exclaim in shock.

Across the small river, single wooden planks, only as wide as a foot, were laid down, spaced two meters apart. There were twenty such makeshift bridges lined up side-by-side across the water.

“Heh heh!” Carpenter Lu Da Shu proudly raised the heavy broadaxe in his hand. “Lads, your coach Xiao Man said this first obstacle is the plank bridge, specifically to train your sense of balance. Go on now, put your backs into it, and try not to fall in!” With that, he raised his voice even louder and burst into booming laughter.

“Go for it!” Uncle Lu’s apprentices looked on with the expression of spectators eager for amusement.

“Damn that Xiao Man!” Abe nearly exploded on the spot. “How is anyone supposed to cross a bridge this narrow!”

“Captain, I feel dizzy,” Chen Xi groaned, looking faint enough to collapse. He had been afraid of water since childhood, and even crossing an ordinary large bridge made him anxious; now he was facing a plank bridge—it felt like his soul was about to depart his body.

“So that’s the setup,” Jialuo remarked, full of admiration. “To suddenly spring this on us during a forced march is indeed unexpected. Moreover, for a warrior, balance is just as crucial.” Saying this, he quickly strode onto the first narrow plank bridge. Led by him, the other squads stopped complaining and immediately stepped onto the planks. However, not everyone managed to cross as easily as Jialuo. Nearly half the group fell into the river. Fortunately, the water was only waist-deep, so drowning wasn't a fear, but even so, the fallen retainers looked utterly disgraced.

Chen Xi absolutely refused to take a single step, greatly worrying his captain, Chen Xiong. Although I was curious to see what they would do next, time was pressing. I cautiously carried my basket across the plank bridge.

On the other bridges, thump! splash! thump! splash!—the sounds were incessant.

“Help! My basket!”

“Oh heavens, all my ore spilled! Hurry and help me gather it!”

The small river instantly descended into chaos.

“Damn it! Couldn’t this bridge be a bit wider?”

“Hahahaha!” Uncle Lu and his apprentices on the main bridge were rolling with laughter, their stomachs aching from mirth.