Butler Die Co.

Chapter 4: The Gauntlet

Leon awoke abruptly to the blaring sound of his alarm at 4 a.m. He groaned, feeling every ache and pain from the previous day's intense training. Yet, he pushed through the fatigue, his resolve unbroken. He quickly showered and donned his crisp butler uniform, making sure every detail was perfect before heading to the training room.

Bertram was already there, his stern expression a constant reminder of the discipline expected. "You're late," he growled, though Leon had arrived on time. "Start running. Don't stop until I say so."

Leon began his endless laps around the training room, his legs protesting with every step. The hours stretched on as Bertram watched him, never allowing Leon to rest. When Bertram finally called for a halt, Leon was breathless and drenched in sweat.

"Enough. Now, we practice."

The training was even more grueling. Bertram pushed Leon to his limits with combat drills, demanding precision and control. Leon's body screamed for relief, but he pushed through, determined to meet Bertram's high standards.

After the punishing session, the trainees gathered for breakfast. Leon sat down with Elena and a few other butlers, eager for a moment's respite.

"Morning, Rookie," Elena greeted him with a knowing smile. "Survived another round with Bertram, huh?"

Leon sighed, taking a sip of his coffee. "Barely. I don't know how much longer I can keep this up."

"You'll get used to it," she said. "Last time we talked, you never really told me your story. What brought you here?"

Leon hesitated, then decided to share. "I was living on the streets, just trying to survive. Thaddeus found me and offered me this opportunity. It seemed like a chance to start over."

Elena nodded, her eyes thoughtful. "I used to be a ballet dancer. Precision and grace were part of my life from a young age. A friend told me about Maid to Order, and it seemed like the challenge I needed."

"A ballet dancer?" Leon was intrigued. "That's impressive. How do you go from dancing to this?"

"Life takes unexpected turns," she replied with a shrug. "I needed something new, and this job offered me that. Plus, I enjoy the challenge. What about you, Leon? What do you want to achieve here?"

Leon pondered her question. "I want to prove that I'm more than my past. I want to make a difference."

Elena smiled. "That's a good goal. And you're on the right path. Just keep pushing yourself."

As breakfast ended, the butlers dispersed to their duties. Leon was assigned to assist at a high-profile event, ensuring everything ran smoothly for the guests. Despite his exhaustion, he tried to focus on Bertram's teachings.

However, fatigue made him clumsy. He tripped while carrying a tray, spilling drinks on a guest. He missed subtle cues from the guests, leading to awkward moments. Each mistake was met with Bertram's disapproving glare. "Maintain decorum and elegance at all times," he reminded Leon sharply.

Leon struggled to stay composed, reciting the key lessons to himself. "Presentation... you always have to be presentable. A butler's movements should be precise and deliberate."

Despite the errors, he began to improve, watching how the experienced butlers, including Elena, moved with grace and efficiency.

During a break, Elena approached him again. "You're doing better, Leon. Keep at it. When I started, I was a mess too. But persistence pays off."

Leon appreciated her encouragement. "Thanks, Elena. I'll keep trying."

By the end of the day, Leon was exhausted but felt a sense of accomplishment. He knew he had a long way to go, but he was determined to improve.

Later that evening, as he was about to retire to his quarters, Elena found him. "Hey, Leon. A few of us are getting together to unwind. You should join us."

Curious, Leon followed her to the sparring room. His eyes widened at the sight before him. Marcus and another butler were engaged in a fierce fight, the sound of their blows echoing through the room. The fight was intense, both fighters reading each other's moves with impressive precision.

The match ended with Marcus's victory. He stood, breathing heavily, a look of satisfaction on his face. As he wiped the sweat from his brow, another butler called out, "Leon, you're up!"

Leon felt a rush of nerves and immediately tried to talk his way out. "I'm really tired, just here to watch. Maybe another time."

But the others wouldn't hear it. "Come on, Leon! You'll be fine. Just give it a try," someone insisted.

With a sigh and a reluctant nod, Leon stepped forward, ready to face a more experienced fighter. His opponent, a seasoned butler named James, gave him a nod of respect before the match began.

The sparring match was brutal. Leon, already fatigued and exhausted, found himself on the losing end from the start. He struggled to land any hits and couldn't dodge James's swift and precise attacks. Each blow left him more winded and desperate.

Elena watched with a mix of concern and encouragement. "Come on, Leon! You can do this!" she shouted.

Leon focused all his remaining energy, determined to at least land one good hit. He watched James's movements closely, looking for an opening. Finally, near the end of the match, Leon saw his chance. With a burst of energy, he managed to land a solid punch on James, momentarily stunning his opponent.

The room erupted in cheers. Leon, though battered and exhausted, felt a surge of pride. He had finally made a mark.

James gave him a nod of approval. "Not bad, Rookie. Keep at it."

Elena walked over, her smile bright. "Impressive, Leon. You've got potential."

Leon grinned, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Thanks, Elena. That was intense."

As the night wore on, Leon felt a growing sense of belonging. He realized that this place, these people, could truly become his new family.

When he finally returned to his quarters, he felt a renewed sense of hope. He knew the journey ahead would be tough, but he was ready to face it with the support of his new friends.