After what felt like an eternity, the helmet was removed, and she was not the same. Emotionlessly, she was ushered out, outfitted in an army combat uniform, transforming her into something unrecognizable. She felt like a statue, devoid of life or agency.
As they journeyed through the military complex, Luna couldn't help but notice that the room brimmed with a staggering array of weapons. Everything from rifles to heavy artillery surrounded her, and the emperor reveled in the idea of her becoming the perfect soldier, ready to take over the world—or whatever he desired.
"First, you need to train," he said with a chilling smile that reached only partway to his eyes. They brought her to the training area, which was surrounded by electric fences. It was rigorous; they pushed her to her limits with physical fitness and discipline, transforming her into a weapon.
After six grueling months of training, she was ready. Ready to pull the trigger, to take a life, to be part of the emperor's army. She was led to meet her fellow soldiers, all shockingly young, ranging from 12 to 18. Despite the emptiness that consumed her, she formed a small bond with one of them, named Ethan.