Itzal’s head is down, his shoulders rounded with defeat. “I knew it,” he mutters.

I’m hardly aware of what I’m doing when I break formation and go to him. “Itzal,” I say, wrapping my arms around his shoulders. “You will be missed.”

Suddenly we’re surrounded by recruits, and Itzal is forced to suffer patting on the back and hugs and even a robust hair ruffle from Pedrón.

“Good job, Itzal,” someone says.

“Stay strong,” says another.

“We won’t forget you.”

“Still hearts, my brother.”

Itzal’s eyes are filled with tears as he breaks away, but his head is high, his back straight, as he begins walking toward the barracks to retrieve his things.

“Wait,” Guardsman Bruno calls out. “I’m not finished. The rest of you, back into formation!”

We hurry to comply. Itzal stops where he is and stands tall, though his expression is perplexed.

“Itzal, you have other qualities that have been noted by your teachers,” Bruno says. “And it’s clear you’ve earned the respect and affection of your brothers. Er, and sister.”

Itzal does not respond. He simply waits, calm and poised.

“One of our stewards is soon to retire,” Bruno says. “It’s exceedingly rare for us to offer a staff training position to someone who hasn’t made it beyond the first year of recruitment, but we feel an exception is in order. Recruit Itzal, are you willing to accept an apprenticeship with the quartermaster? It will entail bookkeeping, supply chain, and inventory management.”

“Absolutely yes sir thank you sir with pleasure yes.”

Bruno cracks a small smile. “In that case, gather your things and report to the central storeroom at once.” He pauses. “And now the empress thanks you for your continued service.”

“Yes, sir!”

Aldo starts clapping, and I join him. Soon, everyone takes up the applause, and Itzal flashes us a quick grin as he steps under the portcullis.

“Light feet, recruits!” Bruno yells. “Ten times around the palace tonight. The first five finishers get dessert.”

The Guards hand us packs, which we hitch over our shoulders. Guardsman Bruno gives the signal. As one, we rush for the wall.

I usually finish well, in spite of my shorter legs. Even with the added burden of the pack, I have a good chance at the top five. I’m not sure it’s worth making the effort on such a hot day for a mere dessert, though. Then again, finishing well will shore up my case to survive the next cut.

The key to endurance running is to occupy your thoughts with something else, so I ignore the weight bouncing against my back, pick up my pace, and think of Itzal. I’m glad he found a permanent place with the Guard. I’ll miss him in training, but at least he’ll stick around. In fact, next time I see him, I’ll make sure he knows he’s still welcome in our nightly class.

After the third lap, I let myself fall behind a little, just enough so Iván can catch up. When he does, I whisper about the note I received.