Chapter 99: The Thermos Said It All
Micah and Emile registered their names at the desk where a bored-looking soldier ticked them off the list without a glance. The sun was already high, and the air smelled of dust, heat, and sweat. The two of them strolled across the training field to the designated area.
When they finally arrived, they found the students sitting on the ground in rows. The instructor at the front was demonstrating how to fold a blanket with precision and efficiency, emphasising the importance of discipline and readiness. His voice rang sharply with each instruction, and not a single student dared to speak. Piles of olive-green blankets and neatly folded uniforms lined the ground beside them.
"Be quick. You must be ready at all times. A dispatch order could come without warning. Folding your blanket and making your bed is the first basic skill every soldier must learn."
Micah and Emile dropped down at the very back, careful not to attract attention. Micah winced slightly as he bent, his stomach still unsettled. He sat cross-legged with his arms draped loosely over his knees. Emile plopped down beside him with an unimpressed look on his face.
When the session ended and the instructor dismissed them with a barked command, they all sighed in relief. Before Micah could even stretch his legs, Eddie and Nick came running to them from another group.
"Ah! You are back!" Nick exclaimed. "We had a scare not seeing you this morning." he paused. "Why are you still looking pale?"
"Yeah, like the life was sucked out of you!" Eddie added, glancing at Micah up and down. "What happened?"
"He threw up blood, that’s what! Of course, he looks like shit!" Emile grumbled.
"Shush!" Micah hissed, nudging him with his elbow after spotting Darcy walking toward them.
The military uniform fit Darcy perfectly, showcasing his tall, lean frame. His dark hair had been slightly tousled under his cap, and his serious, focused expression only heightened the quiet authority he exuded. To Micah, he looked like a young general straight out of a movie, ready to execute him.
Several girls nearby glanced up, their conversation pausing as their eyes followed Darcy’s approach with obvious interest. A few even whispered to each other, their cheeks flushed.