Stars Waited Above Empty Streets by Lorin Wren 207

Chapter 207 First Training 

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Finished 

“No one’s stopping you from stepping out if you’re sick or not feeling well,” Ivan said. “But don’t fake it. If something’s wrong, tell the truth. There’s a doctor in the med bay.” 

Right after he said that, a girl raised her hand. “Instructor, I’m on my period today.” 

Ivan paused, visibly thrown. “Let me finish talking first. 

“I get it. Most of you were probably pampered at home, and this is your first time being away from your family. First time in actual military training, too. But I want you to push through. If you stick it out, you’ll come out of this month completely changed. 

“Also, heads up–ten days in, we’re picking a top trainee. If someone holds that spot for three rounds over the month, she’ll get five bonus credits after training ends. So give it your best!” 

He thought that would stir up some excitement. Instead, silence. Someone even mumbled, “Well, it won’t be me.” 

Then another voice called out, loud and clear, “Instructor Cavalli, I’m seriously cramping. First day. Can I sit this one out?” 

Ivan’s face turned red. “Step forward. Name? Go to the med bay. If the doctor clears it, bring back a note. You’ll need that to file a leave request.” 

Ava watched the young instructor, his ears red as hell. He looked kind of adorable all flustered like that. 

Times had changed. Periods weren’t some awkward secret anymore. Guys didn’t act weird about it, and women’s cycles were all over the place–some every fifty days, others every few months. It was normal. 

Ava did the math in her head. Hers was still about ten days out. Luckily, she’d never had to deal with cramps. 

The girl who’d asked for a break headed straight to the med bay. 

“Alright! Everyone, on your feet! Attention! At ease! Headcount!” Ivan shouted. 

“One, two, three…” 

Morning drills weren’t that bad. You could tell Ivan was going easy on them. Maybe because it was day one. Maybe because he wasn’t heartless. 

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Chanter 207 First Training 

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During break, Zoey was practically wheezing. She glanced at Ava, who looked like she hadn’t even broken a sweat. “Ava, how are you not dying right now?” 

Ava stretched her arms up and brushed a leaf overhead. “This? It’s really not that bad.” 

Noelle let out a laugh. “Seriously, Zoey, you think you’re in the same league as Ava? Please. 

She’d hugged Ava carlier and knew–girl looked lean but felt solid. That kind of muscle didn’t come from lounging around. 

Zoey let out a groan. “I can handle you, Noelle. You grew up tough. But Ava? She looks so calm and chill! It’s kind of depressing!” 

Noelle cracked up. She’d been roughhousing with her brothers since she could walk. Military training? A breeze. 

Ava looked over with interest. “You said something about your family earlier. What do they do?” 

“We run a self–defense school,” Noelle said proudly. “It’s pretty well–known where I’m from. I grew up wrestling with my brothers.” 

Ava nodded. “That explains the vibe. You’ve got that no–nonsense energy. I respect it.” 

Girls weren’t exactly raised to take hits in this world. Most parents wouldn’t dream of letting their daughters go through anything rough. 

Ava knew that firsthand. After what happened to her, she’d begged her grandfather to teach her some basic moves. She swore she’d never be that helpless again. 

Noelle got a little flustered from the praise. They’d only met two days ago, but she already liked Ava a lot. 

“Oh, come on. I’m not that cool. It’s just some flashy kicks and punches.” 

Ava grinned. “Even so, I think you’re gonna be my biggest competition for model cadet.” 

Noelle blinked. She gave Ava a quick once–over. “Wait–you’re actually going for that?” 

Ava nodded. 

Zoey’s jaw dropped. 

“What?” Ava asked. “That surprising?” 

Noelle clapped her on the shoulder. “Not at all. But good luck, because I’m out. You can have it.” 

Ava smirked. “It comes with extra credits, you know.” 

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Chapter 207 First Training 

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Finisherf 

“You could bribe me with twenty, and I’d still pass,” Noelle shot back. 

“Same.” Zoey added. “But Ava, we’ve got your back.” 

Ava looked at the two of them. Brand–new college freshmen. Still clueless about how brutal the credit system could be. She let out a sigh. “You sure? This is the easiest credit you’ll ever get in college. Practically free.” 

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