At the end of Third Platoon stood Private Alara Hayes—steady, composed, a reputation for flawless compliance. Her dark hair lay braided beneath her cap.

One strand—no more than a line of shadow—had slipped free and caught the light.

To most, nothing.
To Marcus, noncompliance.

Chapter 2 — The Cut Heard by the Whole Base

“Step forward, Private Hayes!”

Alara moved without a tremor. Chin level, gaze straight, voice silent.

“You keep standards, or standards keep you,” Marcus growled, circling. “If a detail is beneath you, the mission will be too.”