Setting aside the pen to grasp the sword, Heed the ancients’ call to save our land, restored.

Who could see the homeland trampled upon and not feel sorrow? And who could witness their fellow countrymen oppressed and not feel pain?

Each night, under the dim light, images of heart-wrenching cries, shattered homes, and families torn apart filled his mind. The more he saw the country ravaged, the more his determination to defeat the enemy grew. To win so that cries of sorrow could turn into laughter. To win so that no home would be left in ruins. And to win so that countless white pages could be filled with lessons once more.

Departing to combat for the nation's cause, Pledging to return with victory, the old school’s applause.

Thắng, along with many other students, wrote letters volunteering to go to the front lines. Some were just freshmen, while others stood on the threshold of their lives. Their only baggage was the vibrant spirit of their twenties and an undying love for their country.

The night before he left, you and him sat together on the porch and talked for a long time. He handed you his cherished books, ones he wouldn't normally let anyone borrow. Yet now, just hours before parting, he trusted you to keep them.

His eyes shone brightly, as if there were many things left unsaid. But finally, Thắng simply said:

"I'll come back, wait for me."