Departure

Jack's hands trembled slightly as he folded the last piece of clothing into his bag. His mother stood in the doorway, watching him with a mixture of pride and sadness.

"So, you're leaving for the Red Faction tomorrow," she said softly, her voice tinged with concern.

Jack nodded, zipping his bag shut. "Yes, Mom. We had a deal. As long as they cover Ariel's hospital bills, I'll join immediately." He turned to face her, forcing a smile.

His mother returned the smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. She stepped closer and wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a warm embrace. Jack clung to her, drawing strength from her steady presence.

As they pulled apart, Jack reached into his pocket. "By the way, I have six thousand bucks from the 2x rebate," he said with a hint of pride.

His mother's eyes widened. "Oh, you multiplied the money I gave you? That's impressive! Send five thousand to my bank account and keep the rest for yourself," she instructed, her voice gentle but firm. She gave him one last affectionate pat on the back before leaving the room.

Jack watched her go, a bittersweet smile playing on his lips. He turned back to his packing, his mind racing. The thought of leaving home and the upcoming war loomed large in his thoughts, but he knew there was no turning back now. He had to be trained for the battle ahead, and in a way, it felt like a small price to pay for Ariel's health.

"Jack, come down here! Let's eat," his mother called from downstairs, breaking his reverie.

He finished packing and headed to the dining table, where his mother had prepared a hearty meal. They ate in relative silence, the weight of the upcoming departure hanging in the air.

****

The next morning was unusually slow for Jack. He had barely slept, his mind restless with anticipation. As the first rays of sunlight filtered through his window, he jumped out of bed and rushed into the bathroom to freshen up. His mother entered his room just as he was toweling off, her face lit up with a bittersweet smile.

"I can't believe I'll be staying here without you," she said, her voice trembling. She moved to hug him, and they both broke into sobs.

"I'm really going to miss you, Mom," Jack whispered, his tears soaking into her shoulder.

"You were never going to be a child forever," she said, her voice steady despite the tears. "I knew this day would come, and I prepared for it."

After several minutes, they finally broke apart. His mother wiped his tears away with her hands, then dabbed at her own eyes with the hem of her dress. "You need to get ready and leave immediately," she said, her voice firm once more.

Jack nodded and quickly got dressed. He took one last look around his room, memories flooding back. He had slept in this room since he was five, and now he was leaving, possibly for the last time.

"Goodbye, my dearest room," he whispered, closing the door behind him.

Downstairs, his mother had laid out all his favorite foods. They ate together, cherishing these final moments. As Jack finished his meal, his mother placed a gentle hand on his back. "Always remember where you are from. Stay positive, and the Lord shall be with you," she said, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Jack stood, his heart heavy. "Mom, I'm ready to leave," he said softly.

She kissed his forehead, whispering a quiet goodbye, and watched as he stepped out the door. Jack flagged down a cab and climbed in, giving the driver his destination.

"Red Faction building," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

As the cab sped through the city, Jack stared out the window, his mood somber. He already missed home. The familiar sights blurred past, each one a reminder of the life he was leaving behind.

The cab finally pulled up to a towering structure. Jack paid the driver and stepped out, his heart pounding. The Red Faction building loomed before him, a symbol of the new life he was about to begin.

"Welcome, Jack Willam," the receptionist greeted him with a warm smile. She gestured to take his suitcase. Jack handed it over wordlessly and followed her down a long hallway.

They stopped at a compartment where his belongings were stored. She handed him a key before leading him to another area for medical assessment. Machines scanned him for any diseases, but he passed with a clean bill of health.

Next, he entered a chamber where machines efficiently undressed him and fitted him into the Red Faction suit. A rank badge was pinned to his chest, marking the official start of his new role.

After the rigorous process, Jack emerged, feeling both exhilarated and nervous. The receptionist guided him to the open grounds, where he could find his way to the hostel.

"Hey, I'm Ryan," a friendly voice called out. Jack turned to see a young man with a well-trimmed haircut and an innocent smile. He extended his hand.

"Jack," Jack replied, shaking his hand.

"Welcome to the faction," Ryan said warmly.

Their conversation was cut short by an announcement over the speakers. "Everyone, move to the assembly room."

Jack followed Ryan to the hall, which was stark and empty except for a large white screen. He marveled at the space as the screen lit up, displaying his own image.

"First of all, let's welcome our new member, Jack Willam," the woman who had received him announced. Murmurs spread through the crowd.

"Silence," a calm but authoritative voice commanded. The room fell silent as a man in his late twenties stepped forward.

"We are here to be trained for the great war ahead," he began. "We have less than two months to prepare for the battle against the Saltins. Our mission is to defend our homeland and create a unified federation to prevent future wars."

He sipped from his coffee, letting the gravity of his words sink in. "Today's training will be in the gym room."

The screen went dark, and the soldiers began filing out. Jack followed, determination hardening his resolve. He was ready for whatever lay ahead.