The six months since I began serving as a medic in the military were undoubtedly during a major turning point in Austin's history.
The Western Front, which had maintained a balance for over ten years, was broken. We lost the front that Platoon Leader Garback and Head Medic Gale had desperately defended, enduring a turbulent six months in which even unconditional surrender was rejected.
At one point, it looked like the end of the war was within sight, but ultimately, it continued on.
Refused surrender, the people of Austin resolved to fight until the last person, thinking, "If we're going to be killed like this, we may as well fight."
With their almost certain victory now overturned and their people on the verge of exploding with dissatisfaction, the Sabbath Federation couldn't bring themselves to say, "We lost."
This East-West war, which neither side could afford to lose, gradually escalated into a "grinding down of human lives at a level where national function could no longer be maintained."
This would later be called a "total war" and would be remembered as one of the forms of warfare to be most avoided in future conflicts.
The people of Austin will never forget the events of this day.
When news spread on national broadcast in the capital, Winn, that our unconditional surrender was rejected, the city was on the verge of panic.
However, for some reason, the enemy forces retreated. Soon after, news of a dramatic victory for the Southern Austin Army reached the capital.
In an instant, the despair was replaced by a glimmer of hope, and Rodri and I hugged each other in joy.
"Drink and sing!"
Of course, the people could not stay calm in such a situation.
In the end, local residents started celebrating starting at noon that day. We ended up getting caught up in it and celebrated with the people of the capital.
But that festive atmosphere didn't last long.
The next morning, we Austin soldiers began inspecting our equipment once again.
The war is still going on. It has been kept going by the Sabbath.
"You have fought very well."
We were provided with lodging in the facilities of the military academy in the capital.
That night, we spent the night lying down in the school auditorium alongside our comrades.
"If it weren't for our efforts in Marshdale, the capital would surely have been a sea of fire. We're heroes."
The soldiers who were prepared to go back to the battlefield received an explanation of the upcoming plan from Major Renvel.
"But our fight is not over yet. No, the real battle is just beginning. Until we can drive out those detestable Sabbatians and ensure the safety of our fellow Austin citizens, our struggle will not end."
"Yes, Major!"
"The state is ready to support us to the fullest. They've started recruiting in the capital to make up for the reduced personnel."
"…"
"Our new comrades will be joining us shortly. Each of you, stay sharp and be ready to lead them."
The plan that Major Renvel explained was:
"We will leave the capital city of Winn in a week. We will finally strike back against the demons of the Sabbath."
Our plan was to pursue the retreating Sabbatian soldiers alongside Austin's Southern Army.
According to the Major, a request for mobilization had been received from the South.
The idea was to create a pincer formation from the capital and the southern area to annihilate the enemy.
However, our forces were devastated. It was going to be tough to mobilize with just the capital's forces.
Over the next week, they plan to conscript relatively young, physically fit people and incorporate them into our units.
"The new recruits who are assigned to the unit are expected to be amateurs. There will be very few people who will be of any use in combat."
"Yes, Major."
"Those of you who have seen battle must train them into a real fighting force. Nurturing the next generation is now one of your crucial duties."
Looking back, six months ago…
I was thoroughly trained by Platoon Leader Garback, and heard many different stories from Senior Allen and Senior Gray. I've grown little by little.
And now, the role of guiding new recruits has come to me sooner than expected.
"Once the formation is finalized, you will be given your orders. Those of you who survived to this day will become the core of my new Renvel Army."
"Yes, Major!"
"It will probably take three days to complete the formation. So today and tomorrow, you should take a well-deserved rest. Visit your family, go out with your comrades in town; make the most of what could be your last holiday and leave no regrets."
With that, Major Renvel placed a heavy sack of gold coins on the ground with a thud.
"This is a special reward from the government. Rejoice! We've struck it rich!"
"Whoa!"
"Since it's a precious leave in the capital, I won't allow my subordinates to feel ashamed about not having enough money to fully enjoy themselves. Now, line up and take your share. You've earned it with your hard work until now. Don't hold back! Take as much as you need!"
With a beaming smile, he grabbed the coins with both hands.
"A six-month salary as a reward, huh? That's an incredible amount to receive all at once."
"Even though we're juniors and getting a bit less, it's still a good amount."
We ordinary soldiers were given a two-day rest.
We were handed bags full of gold coins, more than we could easily spend in just two days.
"Senior Allen, what are you doing on your leave?"
"I'm thinking of going to see my parents. By some miracle I managed to come back alive, so I should show them I'm okay."
"Oh, so you're from the capital, Senior Allen?"
It seemed all the soldiers from the capital were planning to visit their families.
After all, there's no guarantee that we'll come back alive this time.
If my family were still alive, I'd want to see them as much as possible.
"What about you, Rodri?"
"Well, I think I'll start by visiting Corporal Verdi."
"Oh, I'd like to go too."
Rodri was apparently heading to the central hospital in the capital.
Our injured comrades were being treated in that hospital.
Since Corporal Verdi has always taken care of me, I should definitely go visit him.
"Then I'll join you."
"You're coming too, Senior Allen?"
"Comrades are important family too. Seeing them safe will help me sleep better."
And so,
What may have been my last holiday of my life began with visiting someone in the hospital.
***
However, I was wondering what I'd do if Verdi was seriously injured and refused to allow visitors.
"Oh, you're all safe. I apologize for withdrawing due to injury at such a critical time."
When we went to the hospital and requested to see him, we were granted permission to meet with Corporal Verdi without any issues.
He was nearly fully recovered and expected to be discharged by tomorrow.
"I'm glad to see you're doing well, Corporal Verdi."
"Thank you, Touri. Your quick judgment saved my life."
"To be honest, when you were brought in front of me, your injuries were so severe that I nearly considered leaving you. I'm truly glad you made it."
"Oh, it sounds like I was really on the brink then."
I still vividly remember the sight of Verdi being carried to the Frontline Medical Clinic vomiting blood.
His entire body was swollen, and he was in a state of shock. Still, I thought he could narrowly make it with emergency surgery, so I took a gamble and had him sent to the rear.
"You really have incredible luck, Corporal. How many times have you narrowly escaped death?"
"Corporal, you were a bit careless. If you sense the enemy's gaze on you, you need to duck immediately."
"Hahaha, I have nothing to say to that."
When I handed him the cake I'd bought on the way, he accepted it with a wry smile.
In any case, I'm glad that he's safe.
"I guess I'm just not cut out for the front lines."
"What's this all of a sudden, Corporal?"
"It's just as Private Rodri said. I just wasn't paying enough attention."
"Ah, well…"
Rodri looked away, embarrassed that his joke had been taken to heart.
Corporal Verdi noticed and laughed, waving his hand to show he wasn't bothered.
"By my uncle's orders, I'm being promoted. They say it's in recognition of my actions in the Marshdale retreat, but as you know, I didn't really do anything. I was just a good-for-nothing who got shot and retreated."
"…"
"My uncle must have realized my shortcomings too. That's why he's probably using his influence to promote me, to keep me away from the front lines."
Corporal Verdi finished his words, looking humbled, his brows furrowed in embarrassment as he bowed his head.
"I suppose I won't have any opportunities to fight alongside you guys anymore… I'm sorry."
In truth, I had suspected something like this.
To put it plainly, Corporal Verdi often froze in sudden crises, leading to injuries. He couldn't be considered a particularly skilled infantryman.
Soldiers like Rodri show incredible reactions when they sense danger, but Corporal Verdi seems to be the type whose mind goes blank and freezes up.
It wouldn't be surprising if he died at any time if he stays on the front lines any longer.
In the first place, Verdi was sent to the front lines to gain experience as part of his process of becoming a staff officer. He was originally meant to be stationed in the rear.
"Congratulations on your promotion, Corporal. You have nothing to apologize for."
"…Even so."
"If you're now a big shot, that means I get to boast. I'll tell everyone that I was the one who whipped the great Verdi into shape."
"I suppose… you're not wrong."
But this promotion weighed heavily on Corporal Verdi.
I imagine he felt guilty, having withdrawn due to injury while the rest of us fought on.
"Also, I think your ranks will be slightly elevated as well. It's called a field commission."
"Oh, really?"
"Most soldiers of that rank have been killed or wounded, so they're filling the vacancies. I think, Allen, you'll be leading a platoon."
"Wow, so we'll have an Allen platoon, huh?"
It wasn't only Verdi being promoted, but us as well.
Considering the Sylph Offensive killed most of our main soldiers, even new soldiers like me and Rodri are now valuable due to our combat experience.
"Well then, this is goodbye. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors."
"See you, Corporal Verdi. If you ever gain real influence, make sure to slip some good wine to Allen Platoon."
"I'm afraid… that would be difficult."
And with that, we shook hands with Corporal Verdi one last time.
"Thank you for everything, Corporal Verdi."
With a slightly lonely look on his face, we left Corporal Verdi behind as we slowly exited the hospital.
"Huh? Oh, hey, Senior!"
…Or at least, we tried to leave the hospital.
"Hey, over here! Oi, can't you hear me? First Class Medic Touri!"
Out of nowhere, a strange voice called my name.
What could this be?
"Hey, someone's calling you, Touri."
"…It seems so."
With a light sigh, I turned toward the direction of the voice.
"Oh, it really is you, Senior! I'm so glad to see you. Did you come to visit me?"
"…Yes, well, something like that."
An older man with drooping eyes, missing both legs, was waving at me, supported by a woman with long hair.
***
"Ah, let me introduce you. This is my wife, Kusha."
"Are you Touri? I heard you've taken care of my idiot husband. Thank you so much!"
As I moved closer, called over by her greeting, Gomuji welcomed me with a big smile.
Nearby stood a slender, confident woman, and a young child who clung to her skirt, gazing curiously at me.
"Mommy, who's this?"
"A friend of Daddy's."
"Man, I really owe you for Marshdale. You're a lifesaver, and thanks to you, I get to be with my family like this!"
Gomuji's wife was a lot prettier than I expected. With her sharp eyes and a kind demeanor, she spoke with a slight dialect.
So he really was married, just as he'd claimed. How did a guy like him end up with someone so attractive?
"Gomuji, there's no need to feel indebted. It's only natural for a soldier to look out for their juniors."
"See that? Such humility! This is what a true soldier should be like, not like those arrogant types hiding behind their ranks."
"…Right."
"I've never met anyone as good as you, Senior. If my son were a bit older, I'd be down on my knees asking you to marry him!"
Gomuji cheerfully praised me, his words lighthearted but earnest.
…Though back in Marshdale, he called me a brat and ignored my orders.
He's a really shameless guy.
"Senior, this is it for me. I don't have to fight anymore now that I've retired."
"Yes, I thought so."
"So I'm taking my family to a safe place. Luckily, I got a decent payout. I'm planning to use that money to start a business somewhere."
He had apparently left the military.
Given his unreliable nature, it's probably for the best.
Even so, he was truly lucky to be able to receive his retirement benefits even after deserting before the enemy.
Platoon Leader Garback's decision to reintegrate Gomuji into the platoon as a lost soldier instead of a deserter likely led to him receiving retirement benefits.
"Anyway, I'll be leaving Winn soon, but… I'm glad I got to see you before I go."
"Likewise."
"Hey Kusha, you have those tickets, right? Let's give them to Senior here."
I guess Gomuji had called me over to give me something.
…What on earth is he planning to give me?
"Ah, yeah, I do. Well, it's true that she saved your life. I guess it's the least we can do."
"Tickets?"
"Oh, they're tickets to the theater my wife was planning to go see."
With that, he handed me two tickets that were rather lavishly decorated.
Theater… I see. So there is entertainment like that in the capital.
"Can you believe it, Senior? While I was out there nearly dying, this lady was calmly booking theater tickets."
"Hey, we're in the capital! Gotta enjoy it while we're here."
"Shouldn't a wife be too worried about her husband to even eat? What's with all this sightseeing?"
"I gained some extra income."
"That was my military compensation money!"
"Nope, that's the fee for collecting large garbage."
Gomuji's wife laughed heartily.
She had the audacity to not care that her husband was dying.
They might suit each other perfectly…
"The tickets are for tomorrow's performance, but we are planning to leave today. My wife keeps insisting that she wants to stay and watch the play, but I have no intention of being in a dangerous place for even a second longer."
"Yes, we don't know when the Sabbatian Army will return. You should evacuate to safety as soon as possible."
"That's why I was planning to sell these tickets quickly to get some money for my journey, but… you're still staying in the capital, aren't you, Senior?"
"Yes."
"Then I'll give it to you. They're apparently a pretty popular theater company. You can use it however you like, whether you want to sell it or go see it yourself."
With a wry smile, Gomuji handed me the two tickets.
"One adult, one child ticket. Sorry for the odd pair, Senior."
"No problem. Thanks, Gomuji. I just happened to have leave until tomorrow with no plans."
"Oh, perfect. Anyone under 15 can use the child ticket. You should bring someone along and enjoy it."
This is probably Gomuji's way of showing his gratitude.
Given his personality, it's hard to imagine him giving up something with value for free.
"When I messed up and lost my legs, I thought for sure that you were going to abandon me."
"…"
"I'm truly grateful. I don't think I can repay you with something as small as this. If you're ever in trouble again, I'll always be there to help you, I may look like this, but I never forget a debt."
With that, Gomuji, still supported by his wife, extended his hand to me.
"I'm praying for your safety from the bottom of my heart, Senior."
And there, we shook hands.
***
"Have you finished talking with Gomuji?"
"Yes. He was as noisy as ever."
With two theater tickets in hand, I returned to Rodri.
Gomuji plans to flee to a city far from the reach of war, in the opposite direction of the Sabbath.
We'll probably never see each other again.
"I got a gift from him."
"Well, that's nice. But what's with those tickets?"
"They're tickets to a popular theater troupe's performance. Though, I wonder if they're even operating theaters in this situation."
"Who knows… doesn't seem likely. But with all the festivities yesterday, it's possible they might be back up and running."
He remained a shady character until the end, but even someone like him had a family.
His wife and child looked happy as they embraced Gomuji, even though he had lost his legs.
My decision protected their happiness.
That day, even if I had to take a few risks to help him, there was meaning in saving him.
"Hey, Rodri. These tickets are for two people."
"Huh?"
Upon realizing that, just for a moment…
"If you're interested, would you like to go on a date with me tomorrow?"
"Huh…?"
I felt a little happy.