General Cliff strutted down the line of soldiers, the rhythmic sound of his boots on the cobblestones echoing off the surrounding buildings.

His uniform, adorned with numerous medals and insignia, was crisp and pristine. His face was a stern mask, his gaze hard and unflinching.

He paused here and there, exchanging a few biting words with the younger soldiers, barking out orders and correcting their stance.

As he passed you, his sharp eyes scanned over you.

He paused, his forehead wrinkling slightly.

Your head was bowed, your face hidden beneath your cap, but something about the way you stood, the arch of your body, caught his attention.

Something was off, your shape too slender, your features too delicate for a boy.

Girls weren't allowed in the army anymore.

They were the weaker sex, less capable of enduring the rigors of war.

His gaze hardened, suspicion and annoyance mingling in his expression.

He stepped closer to you, his towering presence looming menacingly.

You stiffened, your heart rate beginning to pick up.

"You,"

He growled, his voice loud and commanding.

"What's your name, soldier?"