Simon reports to Sergeant Crawford after every shift. The cadet knows the price of failure.
Ashton holds the power of rank over him. Simon's place in the military depends on the sergeant's approval, and that approval comes through strict discipline.
Inspections and reviews always conclude with Simon ordered into position. His shirt is removed, the tattoo on his ribs exposed, and Ashton spanks him across bare skin with measured strokes. The pattern repeats and deepens, each time more necessary than the last. The corrections grow more intimate with each repetition. Simon could request reassignment at any time. He stays instead.
Ashton locks the supply room door behind them.
