THE BATTLEGROUND: LIFE & DEATH 3

This surveillance was crucial not only for safety but also to prevent any treacherous soldiers from attempting on each other's lives, a grim reality that had been tested several times before.

"How did we lose one?" Shi Min asked, his voice heavy with concern.

"The lake," his mother responded, the weight of the word hanging in the air.

"That lake never fails to attract," Shi Min murmured, a bitter edge to his tone. The lake's serene surface hid deadly secrets, a reminder that in this harsh training ground, even the most innocent-looking surroundings could prove fatal.

"What was the result of your mission with Goldie last night?" Ling Li inquired.

"Goldie was a blast!" Shi Min said with laughter, reminiscing the night's events.