Mai completes her push-up set, lowering herself onto her stomach. She takes a minute to catch her breath, then switches to lie on her back, beginning her sit-up routine. She counts each rep in her head—1, 2, 3, 4, 5…. This routine has been her constant since she was brought here a couple of days ago. That day, they had come to her classroom, asked her to follow, and led her to this enclosed observation room. They told her to make herself at home, offering no further explanation. Though curious about why she was brought here, Mai didn't question their orders. Until they brief her on the situation, she focuses on training her mind and body. It's a more efficient use of time than simply lounging around. In an army, inefficiency is useless. War allows no time for fun—she's learned that much during her time here. They live under the guise of students, but Mai knows the truth. They are being conditioned to become the most efficient soldiers, trained to survive or die—those are the only options. That's their purpose.
The door unlocks, and someone enters, but Mai continues her workout, assuming it's just a staff member bringing her daily lunch rations. However, an unfamiliar voice interrupts her routine. "Are you Mai?"
Mai stops her workout, sits up, and wipes her forehead with her arm before taking a sip of water. "Yes, sir."
The man walks closer, pauses, and looks at her desk chair. "May I sit? I'd like to chat a bit."
"Of course. This isn't my room; I have no authority to refuse you. I'll do my best to be of help."
He smiles slightly. "You really are quite compliant, aren't you? Who'd have thought?"
Mai looks at the greying man in confusion. "I'm sorry, sir, but I'm unsure how I should respond to that."
"Oh no, I apologize. I was just thinking out loud—no need to respond. I was a bit of a troublemaker in my younger years, but I had a lot of fun. I grew up a bit when I was older, of course, being assigned to my regime and all. They trained us hard, but honestly, if they hadn't, I might not be here today." He looks away, lost in memories of his youth.
For a fleeting moment, Mai feels a connection to him, but it passes quickly. He looks back at her and smiles. "Sorry about that. So I guess you enjoy exercising?"
As he looks at her, Mai suddenly realizes she's sweating heavily and likely looks unpresentable. She tries her best to wipe the sweat away with her shirt. "I'm very sorry, sir. I am ashamed that you would have to see me in such an unruly state. It's completely unacceptable; I'll accept whatever punishment you see fit."
He chuckles. "Hey now, please relax. There's no need to be so formal. I'm not here as a professional or anyone of real standing; I just wanted to talk to you a bit. I find you interesting. I've seen your profile, and you are quite impressive, to say the least. They say you are the most fitting to be a soldier due to your high level of diligence and efficiency, but you're also the most intelligent student at the academy. That is seriously impressive. I'm sure your parents would be extremely proud."
"I have never met my parents, sir, so I cannot give an opinion on that statement. I am honored that you speak so highly of me, and I will do my best to continue to live up to the ideals expected of me, sir."
He looks at her in awe, but there's also a tinge of sadness in his expression. For just a moment, Mai feels as though her tough exterior might crack, but she holds firm.
The guard knocks on the door, signaling the end of their conversation. The man stands up, looking at her once more. "I'm glad you've become such a respectful young lady but take it from this old man—don't forget that there are times when happiness and friendship are more important than the mission. I wish you all the best."
They shake hands firmly, and then, with a gentle smile, he's gone. Mai finds herself slightly confused, unsure of what he meant, and even more confused by her own feelings. Somehow, she feels as though she just met someone significant, but she'll likely never know exactly who. She shrugs, deciding it's not worth thinking about too deeply, and restarts her workout.
About ten minutes later, the door unlocks and opens once again. This time, Mai stops and stands at attention, not wanting to be caught in an unfavorable position again. A woman with brown hair enters.
"Hello, Mai. My name is Gia, and I've been assigned as your advisor. I'm here to take you to your new living quarters. Would you mind coming with me?" Gia's gentle blue eyes and warm smile put Mai at ease.
"Yes, of course. Forgive my current state. I haven't yet had an opportunity to wash myself."
"Don't worry about that. You'll have the opportunity to shower in a very nice bathroom soon. Come with me."
Gia guides Mai out of the cell, and they walk up a flight of stairs to a door that seems to lead to a private sector. After keying in a code, they enter and walk into a modern, high-tech living area. Gia shows Mai around briefly before leading her down a hall to what will be her bedroom. They stop near the door, and Gia motions for Mai to move closer. Mai obliges, and Gia leans in to speak quietly.
"Okay, so this is going to be your room. You'll be sharing it with another girl, but you need to know that she's very shy and withdrawn. She has an unfortunate history, which has made her a very cautious and anxious person, especially around men. She's better around other girls, but she still likes to keep her distance, so it would be best if you give her some space for a while. You each have your own spaces, including your own bathrooms, so it shouldn't be too difficult, but just be mindful of what you say or do around her, especially since you're a bit…" Gia pauses, unsure if she should continue.
But Mai already knows what Gia is thinking. She has heard it all before—people often say she looks a bit like a boy. It's common for people to comment on her masculine appearance; her classmates even call her the Ice Prince. Mai has always been more aggressive and rougher like the boys, but she likes to think she's retained at least some feminine qualities. She prefers wearing a boy's uniform over a girl's simply because she hates dresses and skirts. But that doesn't mean she's ashamed of being a girl; she even enjoys fashionable things. Still, she understands how her appearance could be uncomfortable for someone who has been through traumatic experiences. "I understand, ma'am. I will be sure to give her adequate space."
"Thank you. I really appreciate it. Now, let's go inside so I can introduce you two." Gia opens the door.
They walk inside, and Mai sees a girl with a lightly tanned complexion, pink flowing hair, and big round eyes looking up at them. As their eyes meet, Mai feels as though she's taken flight, her heart seemingly floating up in her chest. It feels as though she's seeing an angel before her very eyes, and it's magical.
"Mai, is everything alright?" Gia's voice snaps her back to reality. "Oh, you're back. I don't know where you went, but as I said, this is Lilianna. She'll be your roommate now."
Mai shakes her head and returns to her normal demeanor, embarrassed that she let herself slip for even a moment. "I apologize for my strange hesitation. I'm Mai. I really hope we can get along, Lilianna." She smiles warmly.
Lilianna stares back, both terrified and captivated, but after several seconds, she bashfully raises her hand to Mai's. In the sweetest voice Mai has ever heard, she says, "Lili. Just call me Lili."
In that moment, Mai knows she'll protect Lilianna and that precious smile. It becomes her sacred oath. As their eyes connect, Mai feels as though her soul is captured in Lilianna's embrace and hers in return. Mai has never thought much of fate, but now, she feels as though she's experiencing it firsthand. The old man's words suddenly become crystal clear. Mai would sacrifice her very soul to keep Lilianna safe, no matter the consequence.