The training room went quiet when Sergeant Emma Brooks stepped onto the red mat.
Dozens of soldiers formed a circle around her.
Across the room stood Staff Sergeant Ryan Cole.
Tall.
Confident.
And smiling like the outcome had already been decided.
Ryan looked at Emma.
You sure you want to do this?
Emma rolled her shoulders.
You asked for a demonstration.
The soldiers around them started whispering.
Ryan had spent weeks telling everyone Emma did not belong in the advanced combat unit.
Too small.
Too quiet.
Not aggressive enough.
Emma had ignored him.
Until that morning.
Ryan had challenged her in front of the entire platoon.
Emma finally accepted.
An instructor raised one hand.
Controlled training only.
No unnecessary contact.
Emma nodded.
Ryan smiled.
Then the instructor stepped back.
Begin.
Ryan moved first.
Emma did not.
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