The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows across the training grounds as we gathered for the final test of the day. This one was different from the others. It wasn’t about shooting or running or fighting. This was about strategy—about using our minds to outthink the enemy.
We were divided into teams of four, and I found myself standing alongside cadets I barely knew. Liam was on another team, a few rows down with Matt and Aaron. I couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment, but I quickly pushed it aside. It didn’t matter who I was teamed up with. I could work with anyone if it meant getting through this.
Our task was simple on paper, but I knew it would be anything but. We were given a scenario—an enemy outpost that needed to be infiltrated and secured. The outpost was heav
