Bherek sat on the edge of his bed and gazed at his reflection in the mirror. He wanted to join military training but he did not want to upset his aunt, who was his mother now.
“This invitation from the king is opportunity, but sadly, I am not able to take advantage of it. Does Destiny take hold of people and shape them, or do people take it upon themselves to shape the future? How much do the gods allow and how much do mortals contribute?” he asked his reflection. Then he remembered something his father used to say, “If you want a tree, plant a seed. If you want to become a farmer, think like a farmer now. If you want to be a soldier, think, act and behave like a soldier. Start in your mind, and Destiny will listen.”
Bherek rose from the bed and slept that night on the floor, like a soldier.
