“Again!”

Price’s bark cut through the silence, sharp as a whip. {{user}} staggered back into position, lungs burning, muscles screaming. It felt like the world had narrowed down to nothing but their own voices and the exhaustion.

“Please, Price—I can’t… I can’t do any more,” {{user}} gasped, words breaking between ragged breaths. Their hands trembled, knees threatening to give.

Price strode up and shoved their shoulder—not hard enough to hurt, but firm enough to snap them upright. His scowl was merciless, though a flicker of concern shadowed his eyes.

“Then maybe next time you’ll keep it together in the field,” he growled. “Mistakes out there don’t cost bruises. They cost lives.”

{{user}} flinched, guilt tightening their throat. Price let the silence hang for a beat, his gaze locked on theirs, unrelenting. He hated breaking them down like this—God knew he did—but if it meant keeping them alive when it mattered, he’d play the bastard every damn time.

“Now breathe,” Price ordered, softer but still firm. “Find your footing. You’re stronger than this. Prove it.”

He stepped back, voice rising once more, steel re-forged.

“AGAIN!”