In a world where non knights received little recognition, nobles were desperate to elevate their heirs. Many resorted to feeding their children rare elixirs or growth stimulants to awaken their latent auras, producing barely competent knights.
Had the Crassus family possessed sufficient funds, they might have turned Lincoln into a knight as well. But the cost of such treatments was equivalent to that of an entire castle, far beyond what the family could afford in the past.
Standing on a platform, Michael observed the noble scions laughing and chatting before him. Each had undergone training that cost as much as a castle, hailing from wealthy families concentrated in the central regions of Lania.
Yet, despite their artificially awakened auras, their abilities were underwhelming. Unlike Louis, the youngest son of Count Charles, who had used a growth stimulant but achieved true knighthood through relentless effort, these individuals showed no such dedication. They were more interested in leisure than discipline.
At least their families' wealth ensured they were well equipped, which was a small consolation.
The new unit, named the Special Task Force, became a parade of privilege—an ensemble of golden spoon knights.
Designed to foster aristocratic unity, the unit's primary objective was to provide these nobles with just enough success to appease their egos. Still, Michael ensured they underwent adequate training to function as a military force.
The veterans of the first task force, seeing this as an opportunity to "train" their juniors, enthusiastically took on the task.
That night, the vast training grounds of Orlando Fortress echoed with the wails of noble born knights as their rigorous training stretched late into the night.
Michael stood before a scaled down model of Orlando Fortress and its surrounding terrain.
The model was one of the artifacts crafted by Leonardo, who had arrived days earlier, laden with items Michael had requested. Small flags were embedded in the model, each enchanted to display the movements and formations of different armies.
Designed to facilitate tactical planning, the artifact exceeded Michael's expectations. Satisfied, he picked up a flag representing the newly formed Special Task Force and planted it near the fortress on the model.
The Special Task Force had completed their training the previous evening under the guidance of the task force instructors. Now it was time to test their readiness and mobility. Michael, after much deliberation, decided to send them on a reconnaissance mission around the fortress.
While there was a slight risk of encountering the vanguard of the Pamir Imperial Army, the likelihood was low. To ensure safety, Michael planned to accompany the force personally, confident that his presence would guarantee the mission's success.
With his decision made, Michael rose from his seat. Miaomiao, who had been napping beside his bed, followed him. As Markus also prepared to stand, Michael stopped him.
"It's fine, Markus. I'll be taking the Special Task Force to scout the area. We'll be riding, so take a break," Michael said.
Assessing the task force's mobility required Michael to ride alongside them. Unlike the original Special Operations Unit, which included beast mounted warriors, the members of the new task force served as cavalry.
Since most of the Special Task Force members had not bonded with magical beasts, they relied on horses. Still, their role as cavalry gave the unit a distinct advantage.
These noble born knights, accustomed to privilege, all owned exceptional steeds. Many rode the famed Pamir Mountain horses, known for their speed. With such mounts, the Special Task Force could excel in their duties.
Before the task force's departure, Crown Prince Randolph came to see them off. Unlike his earlier outbursts during the meeting, he now conducted himself as a proper crown prince.
Though his true feelings remained a mystery, he stood alongside Princess Elise, who offered encouragement to the soldiers. The affection in Randolph's gaze toward Elise indicated her efforts to support him had not been in vain.
The noble families, eager to see their offspring succeed, also gathered to bid farewell.
Although it was a minor mission to scout the fortress vicinity, the nobles, aware of their children's limitations, took every precaution. In Elonia's case, the concern over their children's safety had even led a coalition of nobles to send 1,000 soldiers to accompany the task force.
It was gratifying to see the efforts to integrate these previously uncooperative nobles paying off. Many had invested personal funds to provide their children with equipment and skilled escorts.
Even the once hostile central nobles of Lania appeared more at ease, realizing Michael had no intention of monopolizing glory. As long as they cooperated, he was more than willing to share the spotlight.
Michael was equally pleased. His strategy of including these privileged yet underperforming heirs in the task force was yielding results. Sometimes, practicality was the wisest course of action.
While Michael possessed exceptional abilities, hoarding achievements would only breed resentment. By involving others and allowing them to share in success, he could cement alliances and expand his influence.
If this mission went smoothly, the nobles' heirs would gain accolades, further solidifying their families' support for Michael.
As the morning sun climbed higher, the Special Task Force and their accompanying 1,000 soldiers began their march.
For their first mission, the task force moved with flawless precision, their formation unmarred by even the slightest error.
Michael couldn't help but smile as he watched the sunlight glint off their polished armor. The sight of the disciplined procession filled him with pride.
The task force's impeccable display reassured both Michael and the nobles, who had been skeptical of their children's transformation.
The soldiers provided by Elonia, though less polished, marched with commendable composure, living up to their reputation as an elite contingent.
Buoyed by the sight of the unified force and the cheerful send-off, Michael left the fortress in high spirits.
His growing reputation was evident in how others now regarded him with respect and admiration. While he knew better than to become complacent, it was undeniably satisfying to receive such recognition.