"Enough! I can see the hesitation on your faces, but drop it. The real world doesn't care how old you are, people die out there every day. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so if you think you're not ready, then fix your fucking heads."
Garrick's heavy gaze swept across them.
"Good." He gave a short nod. "Now… before we move on—what's the true essence of being a warrior?"
A trainee raised his hand.
"Don't raise your hand. This isn't class. If you've got something to say, say it properly."
"Y-yes, Instructor… I think it's talent."
"Talent? That's it?"
"…yes, Instructor."
"Trash. Next."
"…battle sense?"
"No."
"Strong rune arts?"
"No."
"…looks?"
"…are you trying to embarrass your ancestors?"
"N-no, Instructor!"
"It's will."
A hush settled over the trainees, and all eyes turned toward Kaiden, who met Garrick's gaze with a steady expression.
"The essence of a warrior is will."
"Hmm… will, huh. Why?"
