Alina and Mal are both part of the Ravkan military. They have been apart for quite a bit given that they are part of different regiments and are meeting for a crossing of the Shadow Fold, a massive dark location that splits Ravka right down the middle and is extremely dangerous to cross. They both grew up in the same orphanage and have been close friends. Mal has always been fondly looked after by girls all around him and he does not struggle to make friends. Alina, on the ot