The noble officer Ahemim was a young man in his twenties, fresh out of military school and eager to serve the empire and earn military honors.
He was also the most staunch supporter of the pro-war faction.
"Dina, the empress sent you to take part in the war."
"She hoped you would bring back valuable experience."
"So that you could serve the empire."
"Was the only experience you brought back hiding behind defensive lines like turtles?"
"I'm really curious just what kind of war you fought in!"
Ahemim spoke loudly, winning the support of the pro-war faction.
Dina and the other officers who favored defense all shook their heads.
Dina, who had been singled out, retorted loudly, "You've never been to war. You have no idea how cruel it is."
"Why shouldn't we use an easier way to win when we have one?"
"Do you enjoy making things harder for yourselves that much?"
Ahemim shot back, "Don't make excuses for being afraid to die."
"Has the empire spent all these years training us just so we can hide like turtles?"
"What meaning would a victory like that have?"
"What would people think of us?"
"And what would they think of the empire?"
"Dina, what you're doing is bringing shame upon the empire!"
Dina laughed in fury. "Shame?"
"All I know is that I'm saving you."
"War isn't some combat game you played at school!"
"Nor is it a place to pursue personal glory."
"Do you know what it feels like to have your legs blown off?"
"Do you know how long you can survive with only half your body left?"
"Have you ever watched your intestines spill out of your own belly?"
"I can tell you with absolute certainty that the knowledge you learned at school is worthless on the