Chapter 4 & 5

Chapter 4: Growing Bonds and Rivalries

The training field had emptied after the “Bloody Up” event, but the tension between the blue and red teams still lingered in the air like electricity.

Leona and Alexa found a quiet corner near the barracks to catch their breath and share thoughts.

“Did you see how much those girls were glaring at you?” Alexa whispered mischievously. “They all want Arthur for themselves, and it’s driving them crazy that he’s on your team.”

Leona snorted. “And why does it feel like he’s enjoying all that attention? He’s impossible.”

Alexa grinned. “I’d say he’s just playing his role. McLyne isn’t used to being ignored or underestimated.”

Leona frowned, thinking about Arthur’s moments when his mask slipped — the flashes of vulnerability she’d glimpsed. “Maybe you’re right.”

Their conversation was interrupted by Roinne’s booming voice.

“Ready for the next event, ladies?”

Leona glanced toward Arthur, who was speaking quietly with the Commander nearby. The Commander gestured seriously, something about Arthur wanting to prove himself beyond his family name.

Leona’s irritation with Arthur faded, replaced with curiosity.

“Maybe he’s more than just a spoiled brat,” she murmured to Alexa.

Alexa nodded knowingly. “You never know.”

The chapter closed on an uneasy truce between Leona and Arthur, the rivalry softened by understanding.

Chapter 5: Secrets Unveiled

The evening settled quietly over the training camp as most members regrouped after a busy day. Leona felt a restless energy buzzing inside her — she couldn’t shake thoughts about Arthur’s sudden change from annoying rival to responsible teammate during the "Bloody Up" event. Something about him intrigued her, but she refused to admit it out loud.

Curiosity led her to the dimly lit corner near the Commander’s office, where she overheard a conversation that made her heart skip a beat.

Arthur sat close to the Commander, his usual confident smirk replaced by a serious, almost vulnerable expression.

“I don’t want people thinking I’m just the President’s grandson using his name,” Arthur’s voice was low but steady. “I need to prove I belong here on my own.”

The Commander nodded, understanding in his eyes. “It’s a heavy burden, Arthur, but skill and humility will earn you respect. Not your family name.”

Leona’s mind raced. So his teasing was a mask — a shield to hide the pressure he felt to live up to that legacy.

As she turned away, the Commander warned, “Remember, this organization runs on trust and loyalty more than just ability.”

Arthur’s answer was determined. “I won’t disappoint you.”

That night, lying awake in her room, Leona mumbled to herself, “Maybe he’s not just a pain in the neck after all.” Yet, deep inside, she wondered what this meant for their rivalry — and if feelings she tried to ignore could grow into something else.

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I have to put both chapters on the same update because it was short. Hope you enjoyed it.

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