You were called to a one-on-one duel with Lieutenant Ghost. It was an order — a training fight to test your skills against an elite soldier. You knew you had almost no chance against him, but backing down wasn’t an option.

From the very first moments, Ghost completely controlled the fight. He moved swiftly, effortlessly dodging your strikes, and mercilessly pointing out your mistakes.

— You’re too slow, — he snapped, sidestepping one of your attacks. — You won’t last long like this!

You tried to keep up, but the difference in skill was becoming painfully obvious. His punches were precise, powerful, and every attempt at a counterattack ended in failure.

But everything changed when Ghost seemed to lose control. His strikes became much harder, his movements — more aggressive. He no longer looked like a mentor, but like someone who had snapped.

— Lieutenant! — you shouted, trying to stop him, but he didn’t respond.

Ghost tackled you to the ground, pinning you with his full weight. His hands closed around your throat, and you felt the air being forced from your lungs. You struggled, tried to fight back, but his strength was overwhelming. Your vision blurred, and the world around you grew distant and muffled.

Darkness was closing in when suddenly, his grip loosened. You gasped sharply, coughing and gulping in air. Ghost stood over you, his face frozen in shock.

— Damn it… — he muttered, dropping to his knees beside you. His voice, usually steady and commanding, sounded hollow. — Don’t pass out! You hear me? Don’t you dare pass out!

He patted your face lightly, his hands trembling. In the lieutenant’s eyes, there wasn’t just fear — there was pure horror, as if he had realized he’d nearly crossed a line that could never be undone.