The weeks had been hell. Blisters tore open on my feet and healed into scars. My arms shook from endless drills with weapons heavier than I thought I could lift. Sleep was a gift rarely given, and food was never enough.
But today… today was visiting day.
The gates of the B.A.M. compound creaked open, not for soldiers, but for families—mothers, siblings, and even a few fathers who dared step into this iron world. The recruits around me buzzed with excitement, their faces softening for the first time since training began.
I stood apart, scanning the crowd. My chest tightened when I saw her.
Mother.
She wasn't dressed in the silks she wore at home. She looked tired, her hair tied back, her dress plain, but her eyes—those warm, unbreakable eyes—found me immediately.
"My son," she whispered, rushing forward. She wrapped her arms around me before I could react, holding me like she feared I might disappear. For a second, I almost forgot I was a soldier-in-training.
"Mother," I said, my voice cracking. "Why did you come? Father—"
"Your father refused," she cut me off, her tone sharp but sad. "He said this path will break you. He said it is not what he wanted for his son."
Anger boiled in my chest. "I don't need his approval. I will rise here on my own."
She cupped my face, tears threatening to spill. "You're my child, not the Empire's. No matter what uniform you wear, you are still mine."
A whistle blew, sharp as a blade. General Soren himself stepped into the yard, watching the reunions with his cold eyes.
"Time is short," he barked. "Speak your words and leave your tears behind the gates."
Mother flinched but held me tighter. "Promise me," she whispered urgently, "promise me you won't let this place take your heart. Serve if you must… but don't lose you."
I looked at her, then at Soren's looming figure. My throat tightened.
"I promise," I said, though deep down, I wondered if I could keep it.
The horn sounded again. Families had to leave. Mother's hands lingered on mine until the guards pulled her gently away. She mouthed two final words as she was led out:
"Stay strong."
And as the gates slammed shut once more, I clenched my fists.
Not just for me.
Not just for the King.
But for her.
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