Harvesting Dreams

"The military will provide you with a monthly salary, but don't expect too much – it might range from a modest 10 to 50 Cooper Yen. The exact amount hinges on the rank you achieve within the military," Father explained, his face marked with the wisdom of experience.

Taro's eyes burned with determination, and his words reflected his ambition, "How quickly can I climb the ranks?"

Father leaned back, a nostalgic glint in his eyes. "In my youth, ascending through the ranks as a newcomer was a formidable challenge. To move up, you had to outshine your peers, be the cream of the crop, and showcase unparalleled skills following the choosing ceremony. Reaching rank 5, the highest tier for newcomers, was no small feat. It demanded an unwavering work ethic, boundless dedication, and the spirit of a true warrior," Father recalled, underlining the arduous path ahead.

Note: The choosing ceremony is the military graduation, where recruits are assigned to their respective groups within the army.

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"In the military, newcomers start at the Novice Rank, which encompasses various levels."

Ever eager to learn, Taro leaned in as Father provided further insights.

Rank 1 - The Lowest Tier (5-10 Cooper Yen):

This is where the journey begins for the humble recruits. Unfortunately, life here can be brutal. Those who find themselves at the bottom are assigned the most grueling tasks, the struggle of military life weighing heavily on their shoulders, determined by their given army group.

Rank 2 - The Second-Lowest Tier (10-20 Cooper Yen):

Slightly better than the bottom tier, yet it still doesn't promise an easy life. Progressing upward is slower, and the path to advancement is treacherous.

Rank 3 - The Middle Tier (20-30 Cooper Yen):

This rank accommodates those who may not excel or have yet to demonstrate exceptional abilities. Life in the military shifts towards being a foot soldier, embarking on extensive evaluations within their army group, specialized training, and ultimately being assigned specific roles.

Rank 4 - The Second-Highest Tier (30-40 Cooper Yen):

Only the most talented and skilled individuals find themselves in this privileged tier. Sometimes, the nobles navigate their way into these positions, courtesy of their connections. Nevertheless, their experiences are unique once placed within their respective groups.

Rank 5 - The Pinnacle (50 Cooper Yen and beyond):

To reach this echelon requires unwavering dedication and an abundance of skill. These individuals must excel in every aspect – from assigned tasks to weapon mastery and mission accomplishment. They have the honor of joining the most elite groups, yet not everyone can attain this prestigious fifth rank. Not even the nobles can buy their way in; it's a testament to true valor and excellence.

Taro absorbed this information, preparing himself for the demanding journey ahead.

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"Father, since you've been in the military before, what was your rank and status?" Taro inquired, his curiosity piqued.

"Your father held the esteemed rank of 5 when he embarked on his military journey. He was part of a special army, an honor that distinguished him. However, as the years in the military passed, it exacted a toll on his body," Mother recounted, her eyes glistening with tears as she reminisced. "That's why he decided to retire from the military. We decided to settle down and raise all of you, our beloved children. Taro, you were quite young at that time and might not remember, but you've certainly seen your father's samurai armor."

In an attempt to console his mother, Nen chimed in, gently wiping away her tears. "Haha, no crying," he proclaimed with innocence and love.

"Mother, I believe I was too young to recall those memories," Taro admitted, his mind attempting to retrieve the fragments of his early childhood. "Father, I implore you to teach me everything there is to know about the military and their training. I'm determined not to falter and bring disgrace upon our Hashimoto family name." Taro demonstrated his reverence by kowtowing before his father.

"My son, please rise. There is no need to ask; I'm committed to guiding you through the intricacies of military life, starting at the break of dawn. And though you might think you haven't learned anything yet, you already possess an incredible strength from your upbringing," Father declared. His words left the entire family, aside from Mother, in a state of confusion.

Father clarified, "All the grueling harvests we've undertaken over the years have been more challenging than most families endure. The purpose was to condition your bodies, preparing you for the rigorous training that awaits. I can see you all have grasped the intention behind these demanding tasks."

Taro contemplated his father's words, realizing their arduous labor had been part of their preparation.

"Your aptitude is remarkable. I believe you will comprehend all the aspects of my training regimen before spring arrives," Father stated with a newfound assertiveness. It was a tone I had never heard him use before, and it conveyed his unwavering conviction.

On the other hand, I found myself bewildered, my thoughts in a whirlwind of uncertainty.

"Father, if I reach rank five before the harvesting season, would that alleviate our burden before tax time?" Taro inquired, with hope in his voice.

Father nodded, considering the timeline ahead. "Indeed, if you can attain the coveted fifth rank and maintain it until the ceremony, it would greatly help. You'll have to reach the fifth rank in your first week, or even better, in the first three days after joining. Those initial days will be the most arduous. But remember, my son, you must exhibit unwavering dedication and seriousness to prove your commitment to the military."

Taro nodded, absorbing his father's wisdom and acknowledging the task's weight.

Impatient about the timeline, Hana interjected, "Father, how long until tax time and Ni-san's ceremony?"

"Tax time follows Taro's ceremony. Taro has approximately 4 to 5 months before that time arrives, meaning we have roughly six months to gather the required 5 Silver Sakka for taxes," Mother responded as she attempted to keep Nen settled. The family members nodded in agreement.

As Father announced the evening's conclusion, we prepared to retire for the night. I headed to the room to fetch blankets and mats for the boys, sensing the weight of the upcoming challenges.

'Tonight is going to be a long night,' I mused, contemplating the road ahead.