Butler Die Co.

**Chapter 7: Revelations and Missteps**

Leon couldn't shake the image of Thaddeus and Bertram's sparring match from his mind. The sheer magnitude of their skill and the intensity of their combat was unlike anything he had ever seen. He felt compelled to understand more about the enigmatic figures who were training him.

The next morning, after another grueling session of training, Leon found himself sitting with Marcus and Elena during breakfast. His curiosity got the better of him, and he decided to broach the subject.

"I saw something last night," Leon began, his voice low. "Thaddeus and Bertram... they were sparring. It was incredible, like nothing I've ever seen. Who are they, really?"

Marcus and Elena exchanged glances. Marcus spoke first. "Thaddeus and Bertram are legends within Butler Die Co. They're not just trainers; they're some of the most skilled and experienced butlers in the world. What you saw was a fraction of their true abilities."

Elena nodded in agreement. "They've been with the company for years, honing their skills and perfecting their craft. Their level of discipline and precision is something we all aspire to."

Leon was intrigued. "How did they become so amazing? What kind of training have they gone through?"

Marcus leaned in, his expression serious. "Their training is beyond anything we go through. It's rigorous, relentless, and pushes them to the limits of human capability. They've seen and done things that most people can't even imagine."

Leon listened intently as Marcus continued. "Thaddeus is still a mystery for the most part. Besides the fight you witnessed, all we know is that he's mightier than he looks. He can even beat Bertram, who none of us can even hope to touch in a fight at the moment. Bertram is the only one who knows Thaddeus's true nature and skill because he's the only one within the organization with skills close enough to spar with him."

Elena added, "It's not just about being a butler or a maid. It's about becoming a part of something larger, a legacy of excellence and service."

Leon was impressed and slightly overwhelmed by the revelations. He felt a newfound respect for his trainers, understanding that their abilities were the result of relentless dedication and experience.

As they spoke, Leon also learned that Marcus and Elena were not new to the organization. They were seasoned members with their own remarkable backgrounds.

"Marcus, how did you come to know Bertram?" Leon asked, curious about his connection to the formidable trainer.

Marcus smiled, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. "I knew Bertram from my days in the military. I was just a grunt back then, and Bertram was my commander. I witnessed him do some amazing feats, things that seemed almost impossible. Since then, I've idolized him and vowed to one day grow to overcome him and make him proud. I'll follow him to hell and back to learn from him."

Leon felt a deep sense of admiration for Marcus's dedication and loyalty. It was clear that Bertram's influence had shaped many lives within the organization.

Elena added, "I've heard stories about Bertram's time in the military. They say he was a force to be reckoned with, able to take on impossible odds and come out on top. His leadership inspired those around him, and that's why so many, like Marcus, would follow him anywhere."

Leon marveled at the depth of Bertram's history and the impact he had on those around him. It was becoming clear that there was much more to learn about the people who guided him.

Marcus then shared a specific story that left Leon speechless. "There was this one mission," Marcus began, his voice taking on a reflective tone. "We were deep in enemy territory, outnumbered and outgunned. Our objective seemed impossible. During the heat of battle, I got pinned down by enemy fire. It was a death sentence, but Bertram wouldn't leave me behind."

He continued, "Bertram charged into the fray, taking on the enemy head-on. He fought with a ferocity I'd never seen, taking down enemies left and right. But it wasn't just his combat skills that were impressive—it was his resolve. He took a bullet to the shoulder and a deep slash to his side, but he kept going. He reached me, shielded me with his body, and fought off our attackers. He made sure I got to safety, even though he was gravely injured himself."

Marcus's eyes hardened with determination. "That day, he saved my life, and I swore I'd follow him to hell and back. His courage, his skill, and his unwavering commitment to his men—it made me realize what true leadership is. That's why I follow him, and why I strive to one day be worthy of his respect."

Later that day, during practice, Leon couldn't resist trying to replicate the shadow strike he had seen Thaddeus use. He positioned himself, recalling every detail of Thaddeus's fluid movement, and attempted the maneuver. But his execution was clumsy, and he almost lost his balance, sending him careening towards another trainee.

Before he could cause any harm, Bertram appeared out of nowhere, grabbing Leon's arm and face and slamming him loudly to the ground. "What do you think you're doing, Leon?" Bertram's voice was sharp and unforgiving.

"I... I was trying the shadow strike," Leon stammered, feeling a mix of embarrassment and frustration.

Bertram's eyes narrowed. "You are nowhere near the skill level required to perform advanced techniques like that. Trying to replicate it without proper training is not only foolish but dangerous."

Leon looked down, chastened. "I'm sorry, I just wanted to... I wanted to be better."

Bertram's expression softened slightly, though his tone remained stern. "I understand your desire to improve, but you must follow the proper path. Master the basics before attempting the advanced. Your time will come, but for now, focus on what you can do."

As Bertram walked away, Leon couldn't help but notice a fleeting look of surprise in the older man's eyes. Despite his harsh words, Bertram had been impressed that Leon had come so close to grasping the technique after seeing it done only once.

The incident served as a humbling reminder for Leon. He realized that the path to mastery was long and arduous, requiring patience, discipline, and respect for the process. He resolved to redouble his efforts, knowing that only through perseverance and dedication could he hope to reach the heights exemplified by Thaddeus and Bertram.

That evening, as Leon prepared to retire to his quarters, he found Marcus and Elena in the common room, sharing a quiet conversation. Feeling a need for answers, he approached them.

"Marcus, can you tell me more about Bertram's time in the military? How did he end up at Butler Die Co.?" Leon asked, his curiosity evident.

Marcus leaned back, his expression thoughtful. "Bertram's story is one of legend. He served as a commander in the military, leading missions that seemed impossible. His strategic mind and unparalleled combat skills earned him the respect of everyone who served under him."

Elena nodded. "From what I've heard, Bertram's transition to Butler Die Co. was a natural progression. His skills were too valuable to be confined to the military. Thaddeus recognized his potential and brought him into the organization."

Marcus added, "Thaddeus and Bertram share a unique bond. Despite Thaddeus's mysterious nature, Bertram is the only one who truly understands his full capabilities. Their mutual respect and partnership have made them a formidable team."

At that moment, Bertram himself entered the common room, his presence commanding as always. "If you want to know the full story, you should hear it from me," he said, his voice steady and calm.

Leon felt a shiver run down his spine. He couldn't believe the timing. Just as they were discussing Bertram's past, the man himself appeared. Leon glanced at Marcus and Elena, who seemed just as taken aback.

As Bertram settled into a chair, Leon thought to himself, "The masters are always everywhere and watching everything." The realization hit him hard—there was so much more to learn, and he was just beginning to scratch the surface.