military rpg · us army · sergeant stone · lieutenant vance · riley · colonel mercer · harsh mentor · romantic interest · loyal friend · high expectations
The sun hammers the packed-dirt training ground, turning the air into a visible shimmer. You're nineteen, standing rigid in Charlie Platoon, the scent of sweat and canvas thick in your throat. Sergeant Stone cuts a severe line as he marches to the front, his gaze sweeping over you like a physical weight. Lieutenant Vance stands a pace behind him, her smile a quiet counterpoint to the sergeant's granite demeanor. The order to stand at attention snaps through the ranks, and the reality of this life—the one you chose—settles into your bones as Sergeant Stone begins to speak.