A Celebratory Feast

We were on our way to Maison Étoilée, an expensive and renowned restaurant that I had heard about but never visited. Our family usually preferred the comfort of home-cooked meals to dining out, as normal restaurants just weren't up to par with Mom's exceptional cooking. And the more expensive ones were out of reach for us, since we weren't exactly a rich family. However, tonight demanded something special; tonight, we were celebrating.

As the car hummed beneath us, the radio announcer's voice cut through the airwaves. "We've just received breaking news from Korzuv. Former Prime Minister Evgeny Volkov has stepped down from his position after acknowledging the horrific human rights abuses and illegal experiments that were conducted at a government-run facility during his tenure."

Emily scoffed beside me, her eyes flashing with an all-too-familiar fire. "Can you believe that guy? He must have some serious connections to get off so easily," she said, her voice tinged with disdain. "Most people would be facing a tribunal at The Global Alliance High Court and face a life sentence, but this guy just steps down and... what? Retires with a full pension?"

I nodded, my thoughts traveling to Lily and the organization she represented. Valoria's plan had unfolded just as they had intended, but the ease with which it had been executed struck me as odd. Korzuv was not exactly known for its compliance or its willingness to back down from a fight, especially not to a global superpower like Valoria.

As my Evergreen navigated the tree-lined streets of Downtown Elmridge, I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to the situation than met the eye. Valoria must have exerted some serious influence—or perhaps wielded a significant threat—behind the scenes to ensure that everything went according to their plan.

We pulled up to the curb outside Maison Étoilée, and I took a moment to appreciate the elegant Zylonian-inspired decor. The crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the patrons, and the white tablecloths were immaculate. It was a stark contrast to the grim political news we had just been discussing.

I stepped out of the car, adjusting my slightly tight jacket self-consciously as I took in the attire of the other patrons. We were definitely underdressed compared to the elegantly dressed clientele, who seemed to have stepped straight out of a fashion magazine. The suits and dresses around us were a clear indication that this was a place where the elite came to dine, and it was a world away from our usual casual attire. My family wasn't accustomed to fine dining, and my tight-fitting clothes, a result of my recent physical transformation, made me feel even more out of place. I worried that my attire might give the impression that I was trying to flaunt my new, more muscular physique, which was the last thing I wanted.

Despite my discomfort, the anticipation of a delicious meal and the chance to celebrate my achievements overrode any concerns about fashion. As we made our way to the entrance, I braced myself for the expected shock of the menu prices. However, as the waiter, dressed impeccably in a tailored suit, led us to our table, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the prices, while still reflecting the restaurant's high standards, were not as exorbitant as I had feared. A wave of relief washed over me. Despite the initial concern about the cost, it seemed I would indeed be able to treat my family to this special evening without compromising our plans for a celebratory shopping trip at the mall the next day.

As we settled into our seats, I allowed myself to relax, letting the ambiance of Maison Étoilée wash over me. The evening was off to a good start, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a sense of contentment. The food, the company, and the celebration of my new path in life all combined to create a perfect moment—one that I would savor as I prepared to step into the unknown.

The coq au vin at Maison Étoilée was exquisite, the chicken tender and flavorful, steeped in a rich red wine sauce that seemed to capture the essence of Zylonian Cuisine. My mother, savored each bite with a contented smile, her eyes twinkling in the soft glow of the chandeliers. Emily, her cheeks flushed from the wine, was animatedly discussing the latest trends in environmental science, a subject that always sparked her passion.

As the evening drew to a close, my mother's eyes met mine across the table, her expression a delicate balance of pride and concern. "Ryan," she asked, her voice carrying the weight of her thoughts, "what will your role be in the military? Are there risks involved? You're not going to be sent through those gates, are you?" Her questions were direct, reflecting her need to understand the path I had chosen and her deep-seated desire to know that I would be out of harm's way.

I swallowed a bite of the succulent beef bourguignon, taking a moment to formulate my response. The truth was, I didn't have a clear picture of what I'd be doing. The recruitment process had been a whirlwind, and they hadn't given me many specifics. I wanted to reassure my family, though, so I chose my words with care.

"Well, Mom, it's actually quite exciting," I began, carefully crafting my response to mask the uncertainty that gnawed at me. "The Awakened are a new division within the military, and we're all still learning about our capabilities. But from what I understand, the training is extensive. It'll probably be a few months before I'm sent out on any missions." I paused, taking a sip of my water, hoping the nonchalance in my voice was convincing. "They're not going to rush us into dangerous situations without making sure we're ready for them."

Inwardly, I was grappling with the vagueness of my own words. The recruitment process had indeed been a whirlwind, and the details of what lay ahead were still shrouded in mystery. I hadn't been given a clear picture of what my role would entail, but I was acutely aware of the risks involved in being an Awakened recruit. Still, I chose to focus on the positive aspects, reassuring myself that the military wouldn't squander such valuable resources—resources that required costly and specialized training—by sending us into certain danger without adequate preparation.

Emily snorted, nearly choking on her wine. "Valuable assets? Come on, Ryan. You're still a recruit. Those old men in charge will send you wherever they need you, no matter the risk. Don't get ahead of yourself thinking you're indispensable." Her words were slurred slightly, the effects of the alcohol clearly taking hold.

Her skepticism was a stark reminder of the harsh realities of military life, but I held onto the belief that the Awakened division represented a significant investment for the military. Surely, they would take every precaution to ensure our safety and effectiveness in the field. At least, that's what I told myself.

My mother shot Emily a reproachful look, her eyebrows knitting together in a silent plea for tact. "Emily, dear, don't frighten your brother. Ryan, she's just joking. The military knows the value of their soldiers, especially those with... unique abilities."

I smiled reassuringly at my mother, appreciating her attempt to ease the tension. "It's alright, Mom. Emily's not entirely wrong. But I believe the military understands the potential of the Awakened. We're not exactly expendable."

The conversation shifted as Emily's inebriation became more evident. She grew nostalgic, her thoughts drifting to our father. It was rare for us to speak of him; his passing had left a void in our lives that we seldom acknowledged. But tonight, with the wine loosening her inhibitions, Emily spoke freely of the man we both missed dearly.

"Remember how Dad used to come home with that big, goofy smile on his face, no matter how tough his day was?" Emily's voice wavered, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "He was always so happy to see us. To the rest of the world, he might have been just another guy, but to me, he was Superman."

I reached across the table, placing my hand over hers. "I remember, Em. He was the best." A lump formed in my throat as I thought of our father, his rugged features softened by the love he held for his family. Emily had been only nineteen when he passed away, and the loss had hit her especially hard.

I could see my mother's discomfort growing; she hated to see either of us upset. "Let's not dwell on the past tonight," she said softly. "Your father wouldn't want us to be sad. He'd want us to celebrate Ryan's achievements, to look forward to the future."

I nodded in agreement, eager to steer the conversation away from the heartache that still lingered. "Mom's right. Tonight's about new beginnings. Besides, I think Dad would be pretty impressed with his son, the soon-to-be Awakened soldier."

Emily managed a watery smile, giving my hand a squeeze before releasing it. "You're damn right he would. Just... promise me you'll be careful, okay?"

"I promise," I replied, hoping that my optimism wasn't misplaced.

We spent the rest of the evening reminiscing about our childhood, recounting stories that had us all laughing until tears streamed down our faces. The night was filled with warmth and love, a testament to the resilient bond that held our family together.

After a night filled with laughter, reminiscing, and perhaps a bit too much wine, we left Maison Étoilée, the taste of crème brûlée still lingering on our tongues. The cool evening air was a welcome contrast to the warmth of the restaurant, and as we walked to my Evergreen, I felt a sense of contentment that had been absent for far too long.

"Alright, Ryan," Emily said, looping her arm through mine. "Time to drop some cash on some decent clothes. You can't very well start your military career looking like a scarecrow."

I chuckled, glancing down at my attire. She wasn't wrong; my wardrobe was in dire need of an update. "Fine, but I'm only getting a few outfits. It's not like I'll need a closet full of clothes at Fort Haven."

The mall was bustling with activity, the bright lights and lively chatter a stark contrast to the quiet elegance of the restaurant we had just left. We made our way through the crowds, Emily and Mom taking the lead as they guided me towards the men's section.

I let them take charge, content to follow in their wake as they picked out clothes with an efficiency that only mothers and sisters seemed to possess. In the end, I walked away with three new pairs of clothes—one that I had chosen for its comfort, and two others that Emily and Mom had insisted would make me look like "a real soldier."

As we drove back home, the ca's headlights cutting through the darkness, I turned to my mother and Emily, my voice steady despite the knot forming in my stomach. "There's something I need to tell you both. I'll be staying at Fort Haven for the duration of my training. I'm not sure when I'll be back."

Emily's brow furrowed, her playful demeanor giving way to concern. "How long will you be gone?"

"It could be a few weeks, or it could be a few months," I admitted. "But it's just for training. I'll be back before you know it."

My mother reached over, her hand resting on mine. "We're proud of you, Ryan. Just remember to stay safe and don't forget to keep us updated in the family chat group."

The rest of the drive was silent, each of us lost in our own thoughts. When we arrived home, I helped carry the shopping bags inside before heading to my room to pack. I didn't need much—just a few changes of clothes, some toiletries, and a couple of personal items. The military would provide the rest.

Emily, trying to lighten the mood, jokingly added, "And don't forget us little people if you suddenly get promoted to some high-ranking position. We expect an invite to the officer's club!" Her playful remark brought a smile to my face, a welcome break from the somber atmosphere that had settled over us.

As I drove away from the house, the familiar streets of Elmridge taking on a new significance, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of apprehension. Fort Haven was a symbol of military might, a fortress city that housed some of the most elite training facilities in the country. It was a far cry from the quiet suburban life I had grown accustomed to.

As I drove through the night, the evergreen's headlights piercing the darkness, a sense of anticipation filled the air. The world was on the cusp of transformation, and I with it, ready to embrace the unknown that lay ahead at Fort Haven.

The clock on the dashboard read 11:30 PM as I neared the fortress city. I knew I would be arriving late, possibly well past midnight, but I wasn't overly concerned. My body's reduced need for sleep was now a well-established part of my routine. The energy I drew from Mana had become a reliable source of sustenance, allowing me to maintain peak alertness even on limited rest.

I hoped that my late arrival wouldn't be met with reprimand, but the instructions had been vague, and I had assumed that reporting by nightfall would suffice. Training wasn't set to begin until tomorrow, and I reasoned that the military would understand the capabilities of the Awakened, especially when it came to our reduced need for sleep. With Mana's energy sustaining me, I felt ready to face the challenges that Fort Haven had in store, regardless of the hour I finally laid my head to rest.