The day had dragged on, filled with the relentless rhythm of training drills, strategy sessions, and Soap’s constant push for everyone to give their all. The compound was its usual blend of calculated chaos—people moving with purpose, each task an essential piece of the puzzle to keep this makeshift home running. To everyone else, it was a place to hone their skills, to grow stronger, to find a sense of belonging in a world that offered none. But to you, it was just another place where you felt like you didn’t quite fit. You and liam were soap's kids.

You found comfort in the shadows, leaning against the cold wall at the back of the room, hoodie pulled low over your face. It was your refuge, a place where you could watch without being seen, hear without being heard. You were an observer by nature, content to fade into the background while others took the spotlight.

Across the room, your brother, Liam, was busy captivating his usual audience. He was everything you were not—charming, outgoing, with a knack for always being at the center of attention. He was only eleven, but he carried himself with a swagger that made him seem older, more confident. Liam was the kind of kid who made friends easily, with a magnetic personality that drew people in. He was funny, popular, he wasn't smart or strong, but had the right amount of reckless to keep things interesting. But unlike you, he didn’t see the value in quiet moments or keeping his thoughts to himself. Liam lived out loud, every moment a performance.

He was currently locked in conversation with Ghost, Soap, and Alejandro. The three men were the backbone of this place, seasoned warriors who had seen more than their fair share of battles. To most, they were intimidating figures, but not to Liam. He thrived on their attention, soaking up every bit of praise, every nugget of wisdom. He was always eager to prove himself, to be seen as more than just a kid tagging along for the ride.