When Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo start their first year at Wuhan University, they expect the usual challenges of student life-new friends, cramped dorms, and late-night study sessions. But their dormitory holds a dark secret, one that Yibo can't ignore...
As the shadow of war loomed ever closer, Wuhan University became a refuge of sorts for students seeking solace and normalcy amidst the chaos. The once-thriving campus was now marked by a palpable tension, the laughter and chatter of students replaced by hushed conversations about the growing threat. The war had become a pervasive backdrop to their lives, a constant reminder that their world was shifting in ways they could scarcely comprehend.
Gu Yiye and Wei Ruolai had been inseparable since the beginning of their studies. Their bond was built on shared passions and mutual respect. They spent their days immersed in academic pursuits, but as the war escalated, the looming conflict began to intrude upon their peaceful existence. The university became a place of preparation and uncertainty, with students and faculty alike grappling with the harsh realities of the times.
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon and painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, Gu Yiye and Wei Ruolai sat in their usual spot under the old willow tree by the pond. The serene setting was a stark contrast to the turmoil of the outside world, a brief escape into a semblance of normalcy.
"I've been thinking a lot lately," Wei Ruolai began, breaking the comfortable silence that had settled between them. He stared at the rippling water, his eyes reflecting the troubled thoughts swirling in his mind. "About what we can do in this situation."
Gu Yiye, leaning back against the tree trunk, looked at his friend with a mix of curiosity and concern. "What do you mean?"
Wei turned to face him, his expression serious. "We're here, studying, trying to make sense of our world through books and theories, but the reality is that the war is right on our doorstep. I feel like we're just standing by, waiting for something to happen."
Gu nodded slowly, understanding where Wei was coming from. "I've felt the same. It's hard to concentrate on our studies when every day brings new reports of the advancing enemy. I've been trying to convince myself that what we're doing here is important, that knowledge is power, but..."
"But it doesn't feel like enough," Wei finished for him, his voice tinged with frustration. "I want to do more. I want to make a difference, not just with words but with action."
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Gu sighed, his eyes drifting to the distant horizon. "I've been wrestling with the same thoughts. But the idea of leaving everything behind-our studies, our future-it's daunting. And yet, it feels like we have no choice."
Wei's gaze was resolute. "I've already decided. I'm going to enlist. I can't just stand by while my country is being torn apart."
Gu's heart sank at the thought of losing his closest friend to the ravages of war. He reached out, placing a hand on Wei's shoulder. "Are you sure about this? It's dangerous. We've seen the casualties, heard the stories..."
Wei's eyes were filled with determination. "I know the risks, Yiye. But I can't live with myself if I don't try to help. We have to do something, not just for ourselves but for everyone who's suffering out there."
