The sun had barely climbed over the eastern ridge when the camp burst into motion.
Every cadet was up before the first whistle, uniforms pressed, boots polished, bunks arranged so tight that a coin could bounce off them.
The reason?
Annual Camp Inspection.
It was one of the most dreaded days of the year when high-ranking officers and sponsors toured the facility, checking for discipline, cleanliness, and performance.
Leah stood beside her bunk, nervously smoothing down her bedsheet corners for the fifth time. Natasha groaned from behind her, holding up a mirror.
“Leah, you’re straightening that bed like you’re hosting the president.”
Leah laughed softly. “This is the army, Natasha. They’ll notice everything.”
Natasha shrugged. “Well, I just hope they notice I’m still alive.”
The s
