Two years after joining the Imperial Army, I submitted a formal request for reassignment.
The officer reviewing the document frowned.
"You want a transfer?"
"Yes."
He looked up at me.
"Reason?"
"I wish to serve closer to the heart of the Empire."
Finally, he leaned back.
"You understand the Royal Guard selection isn't easy."
"I do."
"You'll be competing against veterans who have served the Imperial Family for years."
"I understand."
His eyes lingered on the medals pinned to my armor.
Reliable.
Disciplined.
Exceptional under pressure.
Those words had followed me ever since I joined the army.
Perhaps that was why, after a brief silence, he stamped the request.
"Very well."
He slid the parchment back toward me.
"Report to the Imperial Capital."
I saluted before leaving the tent.
Without realizing it...
The first move had already begun.
...
Several days later, I received my assignment.
I unfolded the sealed parchment.
Royal Guard Division.
