The day after Kyle's training surprise, the barracks buzzed with stories of what had happened.
Soldiers who had watched him spar, or trained beside him unaware of his identity, now recounted the event to others with wide eyes and awe in their tone.
A noble—a real noble—had fought beside them in the dirt, taken hits, and spoken about protecting their lives. It was unheard of.
"He really said he'd do everything to keep us alive."
"No noble's ever said that before."
"I saw him spar with Varn. Knocked him flat in three moves."
It didn't take long before Kyle Armstrong became a name spoken with respect, even admiration, among the ranks.
His unexpected humility, his strength, and his sincerity had won over many in a single day.
The ripple of support became a wave, and soon, soldiers who had once followed orders with dull indifference were beginning to ask, what else does the new commander have planned?
Kyle noticed. And he capitalized on it.
