Arthur nodded slightly as Veylor spoke. It was merit based and harsh, but also fair in a way that left little room for excuses.
Another young girl asked softly, "Move up to where?"
Veylor answered without slowing his steps. "Better squads, better gear, better missions, more pay, more influence. Eventually, command positions."
Arthur clenched his fist slowly. He could see the structure clearly now. A ladder built on pressure, comparison, and constant motion. People only stagnated when nothing pushed them, and this system pushed everyone whether they liked it or not. That alone made it effective.
Good.
Very good.
A boy walking beside Arthur leaned closer and whispered, "So basically… fight, survive, get stronger."
Arthur replied quietly, "Pretty much."
The boy swallowed. "I can live with that."
Arthur almost smiled.
