(at first I wanted to use Tyr himself as a character, but I couldn't figure out anything. So you get Xiang Lin instead. XD Feel free to request another one if you wanted a specific character -- just switch numbers or something :p)

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"Of course we're so proud of you for enrolling, Lin. Only, do you know where you'll be stationned? Because in two years the Chen's eldest will be done with University and..."

She closes her book. "I'm sorry, Mother. I signed on for longer than that."

Her mother sends her a confused look that slowly edges into baffled, irritated disbelief. "What on Earth for?"

"The war isn't going to be over in two years."

"Of course not! But you're giving them more than most people ever do, and I--"

"Ten."

"... What?"

"Ten years. Please convey my apologies to the Chens. I won't be able to meet with their son."

Her mother stares at her like she's a stranger, and then calls her father over, and then starts the screaming.

She's not going to the army to wear secretary skirts and get her ass pinched. She could stay home for that. She wonders how much louder they'll be, when they learn she's not going to a support position in some office, hoping to snag herself an officer and retire before she hits thirty, but straight to the front lines.

If there's an officer in her life, it'll be no one but herself.