Surrender

Chapter 1

"If I knew being a soldier was unbearable to swallow, I would've followed my father's advice; stay home, get married, and be a housewife. But I didn't want to be like that. I want to be useful. My family did not force me, but I want to contribute to mankind. I carry the honor of my family name and I shall bring it until the final moments of my life."

"I am a soldier. I die a soldier."

"What in the name of all unholy have you done to yourself?"

"Sir! I prefer to be treated as male, sir!"

Petra Ral proudly stood in front of her commander, Levi Ackerman, wearing a male soldier's uniform with her hair cut short. Her objective was, per se, to appear male in order for her to gather confidence in herself. When she was a student, many of the women ridiculed her for her stature and looks. They always made it a point to her that being a female soldier needs to be as intimidating as men. Though not necessarily similar to them, women in the military are expected to bear input as valuable as men's.

She intended to be treated as such. However, Levi was not pleased with what he was seeing. "And what's going to be your name? Peter? No, go change to your official uniform, Private Ral."

She pretended to look undeterred, although Levi could see that her legs were trembling in fear and intimidation. "Sir! I will prove my worth as a soldier if you'd let me—"

"You prove your worth as a soldier out in the battlefield. Now go get changed."

Petra hung her head down in disappointment in herself. She thought she could catch her commander's attention by showing bravery. Apparently, it didn't work; what he looks for in a soldier is his or her actions, not mere appearance. How could she prove herself if she hadn't been in a single war? Not that she wishes there could be one, but all she wanted was for him to see her value.

"Oh, and your hair looks horrible because of your obvious, feminine face. You're free to let it grow but make sure it won't get in the way." When he said those words, she quickly touched her nape to feel her own hair. Perhaps he was right. Perhaps they were right.

That Petra Ral is unfit to be a soldier. But she will not falter.

"I-I will do as you say, sir, but I have a request."

He simply watched her shift about uncomfortably. She continued. "If there are any chance that soldiers will be needed to scout an area, or... or do any mission, I'd like you to please pick me to aid you."

"Oh?"

Petra tried to do a salute. "I will prove my worth in the battlefield, sir!"

Asking a favor from her superior made Petra unsure of what to expect and do next. Everybody in the military knew of Levi's skills and flaws. She made it clear to herself not to get on his bad side when they meet. Although he hasn't shown any form of indecency that may tarnish his impression for her yet, she wanted to prepare her heart at the very least. A lot of people branded the captain as cold and ruthless. Petra believed this the first time they met and were introduced, but she also knew that he was only like this because of his role.

Soldiers are meant to be pitiless, and Levi was doing a great job in this field.

The rest of the days were uneventful for the military life. Word of possible treason was rumored to be true, so the soldiers, inferior or not, were taught to be on high alert. One evening, one of the scouts spotted something strange not far from the woods. He immediately reported this to Commander Erwin Smith, who took note of this urgency. Erwin ordered his most trusted men to move out in the middle of the night and bring any information regarding the matter by morning. The squad was to report back at 7:00 sharp, whether they have collected information or not.