He reached the top, swung over, and landed hard on the other side. No time to catch his breath. The next obstacle was a set of heavy sandbags that needed to be carried across the yard. Kaius grabbed one, slung it over his shoulder, and started running. Every step felt like dragging a mountain, but he forced himself forward, sweat already dripping down his back. Ahead, recruits stumbled. Some tripped. Others cursed. Kaius kept going. The third obstacle was a deep pit of thick, wet mud. No way around it. He threw himself forward, sinking instantly. The cold mud clung to his skin, slowing him down. He waded through it, gritting his teeth as he dragged himself forward. By the time he pulled himself out, his body was covered in grime, his breath ragged. There was no stopping. Wall climbs

