During Training
The sun dipped low behind the trees of Camp Lehigh, casting long shadows over the grounds.
The recruits—ranging from eager young men to seasoned soldiers—lined up in neat rows, waiting for their next drill.
Among them stood two individuals who couldn't have been more different: Steve Rogers, the scrawny kid with a heart of gold, and Rayn, the quiet and observant man with a mind as sharp as any blade.
Rayn had kept a low profile since his arrival. His strategy was simple: blend in, execute precisely, and let his abilities speak for themselves.
He wasn't the strongest recruit, but he wasn't the weakest either. His intelligence was above average, and his mental strength—bolstered by the System—allowed him to stay calm under pressure.
It was a calmness that extended beyond the physical: in his mind, Rayn was already preparing for something far greater than a mere trial.
Today's test was the toughest yet—a combat simulation set in an urban environment.
The recruits were split into teams, and each team had to navigate through a mock cityscape filled with obstacles, enemy soldiers, and a set of civilian "hostages" to rescue. The challenge wasn't about brute strength or speed;
it was about decision-making, resourcefulness, and the ability to keep your head in the chaos.
Rayn surveyed the "battlefield" as the simulation began.
He wasn't overly concerned with the physical aspects of the test. His true focus was on the strategy. He noticed that the other recruits were charging headfirst into the fray, recklessly attacking the enemy or making impulsive decisions.
They were all thinking in terms of action—rushing to take down the enemy or run toward the hostages.
But Rayn wasn't thinking like them.
He studied the surroundings, focusing on the layout of the buildings, the paths the enemy soldiers might take, and the position of the hostages.
He activated his [Appraisal] ability, scanning the area.
[APPRAISAL - Activated]
[Hostage 1 - Civillian]
Strength: 3
Agility: 4
Durability: 2
Mental Strength: 5
Intelligence: 5
Condition: Frightened, but healthy
[Location: Upper floor of building A]
Rayn's mind worked quickly. He understood that if the recruits rushed the hostages without thinking, they'd alert the enemy too early. Instead of charging in, he approached a nearby alleyway, checking the position of his teammates.
Meanwhile, Steve Rogers, standing on the opposite side of the battlefield, was trying to do the right thing in his usual way.
The enemy soldiers saw him coming and fired shots, forcing him to dodge and weave awkwardly. He wasn't the fastest or the most agile, but he had heart—a trait that was evident even in the simulation.
But it was Rayn who moved with purpose, using the shadows of the environment to mask his steps, coordinating a strategy with unseen precision. He directed his fellow soldiers to take alternate routes, cutting off enemy reinforcements while sneaking into the building where the hostages were held.
A few moments later, he emerged from the building with the hostages in tow, quietly signaling the retreat as enemy soldiers closed in. The team, following his lead, pulled back without a single casualty, successfully completing the mission while minimizing damage.
_
( To be continued..)