Recruited

The kingdom of Redvale was described by most as small and quaint. Neutral. Redvale held many alliances, and peace was rarely disrupted, until a war started that brought all the kingdoms of the North together. 40% of the population from each kingdom was required to serve on the front line, 20% to protect the coastal boarders, 10% to serve as medics or professors, and 2% to serve in the private guard. The private guard were a collection of the best fighters, who were controlled by the current monarchs, and rarely seen in daylight. Some people believe the guards didn't exist. But I know they do. Because I am one of them.

Or ember the day the war was announced- 6 rules had been shouted by Royal messengers, and were drilled into our heads in training. All citizens aged 18 to 60 are required to fight in the war. Women and men are required to fight for their countries, or train the next wave of fighters. Women are not required to fight until their child is old enough to start training. People over the age of 40 will train newcomers and anyone with any experience of first aid will become medics. All fighters will train for 18 months, unless they have never received any previous training. Everyone is required to serve.

My village was small, with 40 people living in it. I lived with my grandparents, who tried to hide me from the outside. But they found me. I was 17 when I was dragged away from my home, and I will never forget the crumpled bodies of my grandparents as I left. I may have been young, but I grew into an adult in the following days.

This is my story. My story of growing into who I am today.