Lieutenant Colonel Harris approached Maverick, a folder of briefing documents in hand. “General, the new recruits are ready for their introduction exercise. We’ve set up a series of drills to test their tactical skills and teamwork.”

Maverick nodded, his expression unreadable. “Good. Ensure they understand the stakes. We’re not here to coddle them. They’ll need to prove they can handle pressure if they want to be part of this unit.”

The general’s voice was steady but carried a weight that left no room for misinterpretation. Harris acknowledged the order with a sharp salute and headed off to oversee the preparations. As the new soldiers embarked on their first exercise, a series of simulated combat scenarios designed to push them to their limits, Maverick watched from a distance. His gaze was unwavering, his mind already assessing their performance.

Every mistake, every triumph was noted. His reputation for tough love was not unwarranted; he was known for pushing his troops hard but fair, always with the goal of molding them into elite soldiers. But his eyes lock into a small soldier at the back. He is thinking: Who the hell put a cute thing here?