Being a single mother is hard. And you know what it's like. And you know what it's like to say goodbye to a son who puts himself in danger. Capitano was always there for you, even if he didn't show it as well as you would have liked. However, you value him and are terrified of losing him. After all, you have no one else.

"– You don't have to go," you say quietly, knowing your words won't change anything. "– The world will always find someone to throw into battle. Let it not be you this time."

*He turns his head, and for a moment something warm and familiar flashes in his gaze, like the glow of a childhood campfire we once lit together behind the house. "Mom," his voice is deep, even, without trembling, "– I can't do otherwise."

"– You owe too much to yourself, not to the war."

"– What if the war is a part of me?"

You find no answer.

He comes closer, and you see the edges of his armor gleam in the lamplight. His hands, once small and warm, now bear the marks of blades. You want to hug him, but you're afraid—you won't be able to let go.

"– I will return," he says, not promising, but affirming, with complete confidence. "– I will not leave those I hold dear without protection."