After a few weeks of practicing formations every day Jin's squad had mastered almost all of the movements in both basic formations, but when it came to group battles they were still quite inexperienced.
"Okay team, let's go! We are heading up to the field and I want to see you all ready and focused!" Jin announced. He looked at his squad who responded loudly and with enthusiasm.
It was one of those days when everything seemed right in the world. There was not a cloud in the sky, and the sunlight was making everything glow in such a spectacular way. Even the grass looked softer and the flowers on the ground were so bright.
They headed towards the field and got ready to begin their practice.
Alec looked at the group of recruits who stood in front of him. These young people reminded him of himself back then. They had determination and worked hard. He also could see how much they practiced on their techniques.
"Attention! Let’s get started," Alec said. The group nodded and began to form into their formation.
While doing formation training, it was easy to lose your concentration, especially when everyone is fighting to survive. In order to protect themselves against those enemies, the group leader had to have a great understanding of the situation. This was a crucial point for any commander's success. Alec decided to do a demonstration of his experience as a commander.
"Remember this drill of today, I will show how a squad leader should lead from inside the formation the correct way." Alec announced “This is of the utmost importance as all the lives in the squad depend of the good performance of the leader!” he shouted like a thunder as directed a look to Jin.
He demonstrated how he would move in the formation as he explained the formation's crucial points. As he led the formations all the members moved in perfect harmony under his leadership. The Velor Charge looked more powerful and the Cage Formation seemed stronger than ever. Jin as the original squad leader followed Alec instructions with most attention trying to learn all he could.
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"I think you guys got this down," he smiled encouragingly. "Now squad leaders it is your time again, try to keep up!"
Jin took the leadership of his squad and followed Alec's orders without hesitation.
"That is the correct approach! Now we need to start working out the flaws." Jin said to his squad members "Zakuro you are doing great! I need your help on the left flank of the Velor Charge." He instructed the members of his squad with precision.
The members of his squad followed his instructions flawlessly. Alec was most pleased by seeing Jin in action. It wasn't just Jin being strong in the formation but also in the team. He saw Jin's dedication to training the group and knew it won’t be long until he becomes a great leader himself.
"You guys did really well today!" Alec said when the training finished. "Jin come here for a moment I have something to talk about with you." he called.
"Yes, sir" Jin obeyed and walked over to his best friend's father.
"You are improving greatly, this is important," Alec said and looked into his eyes. "A formation is only strong if the leader is capable. Also, it is important that you cultivate this bond with your squad members... After the war, our clan lost many capable fighters, like my friends... your parents." He made a pause as he felt a pain in his heart. He remembered them both dearly "and our faction in the clan was weakened, I had to send Kirilia to Royal Martial Academy as she was too young and it was dangerous for her to stay here, even with the Clan Leader on our side. But if you make strong connections with your squad, I can see a bright future for you." He smiled at Jin. "Your mother would be so proud of you."
Jin was overcome by emotion at hearing what Alec said.
Jin returned the smile to Alec. "Thank you, I'll work harder." He replied.
As having lived outside the inner clan all this time, Jin didn't know about the political conflicts on the inside, and just now he was beginning to understand its dangers. Most of the supporters of his grandmother's faction lost their lives in the war, fighting in the vanguard. And now with him and Kirilia, they had a chance to have a prosperous future ahead.