By the fourth week, Kylian had begun to feel the effects of the intense training. His body was leaner, his reflexes sharper. The constant grind had ingrained the basics of soldiering into him. He had learned to march in formation, follow orders without hesitation, and fight with discipline.

The last evening before the swearing-in, as they sat around the campfire, Eamon opened up about his past.

"My family had a small farm on the outskirts of Alanor," Eamon began, his voice heavy with emotion. "We were simple folk, just trying to make a living. My father worked the fields while my mother tended to the house. And then there was my little sister, Elara. She was the light of our lives, always smiling and full of energy."

All the recruits listened intently, sensing the pain behind Eamon's words.

"One night, Galdor's men came," Eamon continued, his hands clenched into fists. "They raided our farm, taking everything they could. My father tried to fight them off, but they cut him down. My mother... she tried to protect Elara, but they... they didn't spare anyone."

Tears welled up in Eamon's eyes as he spoke, the memory still raw and painful. "I managed to escape, but I lost everything. My family, my home... all gone."

The campfire crackled softly, the only sound breaking the heavy silence. The recruits' faces reflected a mix of sorrow and understanding, each one feeling the weight of Eamon's story and the shared pain of their own losses.

Kylian placed a comforting hand on Eamon's shoulder.

Eamon looked at Kylian, seeing the same grief reflected in his eyes. "That's why I joined the army. I want revenge for my family. I want to make sure no one else suffers like we did."

All the recruits nodded, their expressions resolute, bonded by their shared resolve.

...

Finally, after 4 weeks of grueling training, the day came for their swearing-in. Kylian stood in line with the other recruits, his heart pounding. The officer who had first signed him up, Lieutenant Commander Greaves, stepped forward, holding a scroll.

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"Repeat after me," Commander Greaves said, his voice strong and clear. "I swear to serve the Kingdom of Alanor with honor and bravery. I pledge to defend its people against all enemies, no matter the cost."

Kylian joined the chorus of voices, his words filled with resolve.

The sunset on their first day as soldiers cast long shadows over the training grounds. Kylian felt a mix of emotions, grief for his lost family, but also a burning desire for vengeance. He was no longer just a blacksmith. He was a soldier of Alanor, ready to fight for his kingdom and avenge his mother's death.

...

"Wake up"

"Wake up"

Kylian was jolted awake by a firm shake on his shoulder. Blinking groggily, he looked up to see Eamon's face, illuminated by the first light of dawn creeping through the barracks window.

"Wake up, Kylian. We've got a lot of work ahead of us," Eamon said, his voice carrying a mix of urgency and determination.

Kylian rubbed his eyes and stretched, feeling the familiar ache of sore muscles from the relentless training and work they had been doing. He nodded and quickly got out of bed, joining Eamon and the other recruits who were already getting dressed and preparing for the day.

The fort was bustling with activity as they made their way to the mess hall for a quick breakfast. Soldiers and recruits moved with purpose, their faces set with determination. Today marked the beginning of their official duties, and the air was thick with anticipation.

After breakfast, Kylian and Eamon headed to the parade ground, where Lieutenant Commander Greaves was already waiting for them. His grizzled face was stern, and his gaze swept over the assembled recruits with a mix of scrutiny and approval.

"Today," Greaves began, his voice commanding attention, "you will begin your official duties as soldiers of Alanor. You've been through the training, but now you must prove yourselves in the field. The kingdom needs you."

The recruits listened intently, their focus on the officer before them. Greaves continued, "You will be assigned to different units based on your skills and training. Some of you will be sent to guard posts, others will join scouting missions, and a few will be assigned to specialized roles. Pay attention, and follow your orders. The safety of the kingdom depends on you."

Kylian felt a twinge of nervousness but steadied himself. He had trained hard for this moment, and he was determined not to let his nerves get the better of him.

As the recruits were called up one by one and assigned to their units, Kylian found himself placed in a special technical unit responsible for the maintenance and repair of weapons, armor, and helmets. This unit was crucial in ensuring that all gear was battle-ready for the next day.

Eamon, to Kylian's surprise, was assigned to a scouting unit. Lieutenant Commander Greaves had noticed Eamon's exceptional eyesight and proficiency with a bow during training, making him a perfect fit for the role.