'I thought I wouldn't miss anyone. Back in my first year my section lieutenant, Savitskaya, she used to say she'd make me write if it were up to her. I understand that better now.' Leah Savitskaya, who saw her own children twice a year and knew what Tayrey was doing to her poor father.

'It's easy to be too excited. Too busy. But... he is proud. After I passed for lieutenant he sent a message. He'd known where I was the whole time, just-' she smiles softly, '-let me stay, let me find my own excellence.' Made her feel exceptionally guilty for all the uncharitable thoughts she'd had about the family having her dragged back if they found out.

'So did you decide to become a doctor because of your father? Following after him? I'm sure he'd have valued that.'