Endurance, Pt 2

By the six-hour mark, the cadets had started to feel exhaustion creep into their core. The sergeants had usually dismissed everyone and had them return to their bunk around this time.

But things were different, since they were in a practice sortie.

One of the cadets hailed the drill sergeants, his voice was dry and raspy. Though it wasn't just because of thirst, but also out of fear.

"Sir, ma'am," he said, "we cadets are pretty worn out and wish to request a break. Sir. Ma'am."

The two sergeants took a moment to think before denying the request.

"Cadets!" yelled Sergeant Akim. "You will perform your drills for one more hour. And then we will see if you deserve to rest."

Many cadets blanched, as they were already close to their physical limits. But they went through the maneuvers as best they could.

At the end of that hour, most truly were at the edges of their capabilities, and could barely hold on to their own controls. So, the sergeants called for a break.