ALL NOVEL Chapter 16: Chapter 16
Chapter 16: The Super Soldier's Responsibility
The morning sun bathed the Ironclad Military Academy's training grounds in a golden glow, but Ethan Cross wasn't enjoying the view. He was deep in thought, standing in the middle of the field with his arms crossed, watching cadets struggle through their morning drills.
It had been weeks since the attack on the academy and the shocking betrayal of Instructor Harlow. The rogue faction's assault had left everyone on edge, and though the academy had resumed its routine, the cadets weren't the same.
Ethan wasn't the same.
---
The system's latest message replayed in his mind as he watched the weakest of the cadets fumble through an obstacle course.
System Alert:
Reflection: Responsibility
The system is more than a tool. It is a responsibility.
New path unlocked: Squad Loyalty Development.
The words had been cryptic, but the message was clear enough: the power the system granted him wasn't just for his benefit. It was a burden he had to bear responsibly.
Ethan had spent so much time relying on the system to improve himself—unlocking abilities, upgrading his stats, pushing his limits. But the realization had struck him like a lightning bolt: what was the point of being strong if he couldn't help those around him?
---
His squad, as always, was nearby. Jackson and Mira sparred under the watchful eye of Lila, who stood to the side with her tablet, likely running simulations or tracking combat stats. Ethan's team was strong, loyal, and capable. They had proven themselves time and time again.
But Ethan's attention wasn't on his squad. It was on the struggling cadets at the far end of the field.
Ben, a lanky first-year with more heart than skill, was hanging from a rope ladder, his arms trembling as he tried to pull himself higher. Below him, a small group of other cadets jeered and laughed, offering no encouragement.
Ethan's jaw tightened.
---
"Hey, Ben!" Ethan called out, his voice cutting through the din.
Ben froze, his head snapping up. "M-me?"
"Yeah, you. Take a break for a second." Ethan jogged over, his presence immediately silencing the other cadets. "Mind if I join you?"
Ben blinked in confusion. "Uh… sure?"
Ethan grabbed the rope ladder, pulling himself up with ease before dropping down gracefully. He stood next to Ben, clapping him on the shoulder.
"You're overthinking it," Ethan said. "The trick isn't in your arms—it's in your core. Keep your center tight, and use your legs to push yourself up."
Ben nodded nervously, his face red as he tried again. Under Ethan's guidance, his movements became more fluid, and he finally reached the top of the ladder.
"That's it!" Ethan grinned, clapping as Ben descended. "See? You've got it in you."
The other cadets watched in stunned silence.
---
Over the next hour, Ethan moved from one struggling cadet to the next, offering tips, encouragement, and the occasional demonstration. It wasn't long before a small crowd gathered, eager to learn from him.
"Why are you doing this?" one cadet asked, his voice laced with skepticism.
Ethan shrugged. "Because someone helped me when I was at my lowest. I'm just paying it forward."
---
By lunchtime, word of Ethan's impromptu training session had spread across the academy. Even the instructors noticed, nodding in approval as they watched from a distance.
Lila approached him during a break, her ever-present tablet tucked under one arm. "So, what's this all about?"
Ethan took a swig from his water bottle, his expression thoughtful. "I've been thinking about what it means to be strong. It's not just about winning fights or completing missions. It's about helping others reach their potential."
Lila raised an eyebrow. "That's surprisingly profound for you."
Ethan smirked. "I have my moments."
---
The following days saw Ethan's new initiative take shape. What started as informal guidance turned into structured sessions. He set aside time each afternoon to train with cadets who needed the extra help, focusing on teamwork, strategy, and fundamentals.
The system rewarded him for his efforts, its interface lighting up with new prompts and notifications.
---
New Function Unlocked: Leadership Aura
Passive ability: Boosts morale and coordination of nearby allies.
Strengthens teamwork during missions.
---
Ethan tested the ability during a mock combat exercise, splitting the cadets into two teams. He led one group, while Logan Steele led the other.
Logan's squad had the advantage on paper—faster, stronger, and more experienced. But under Ethan's guidance, his team outmaneuvered them with precision and coordination, working together like a well-oiled machine.
When the simulation ended, the results spoke for themselves.
"Victory: Team Cross," the instructor announced, a note of surprise in his voice.
Ethan glanced at Logan, who stood rigid, his jaw tight. Their eyes met for a brief moment before Logan turned and walked away without a word.
---
The victory solidified Ethan's reputation among the cadets. Those who had once dismissed him as an underdog now looked up to him with admiration. The weaker cadets, in particular, began to thrive under his guidance, their confidence growing with each passing day.
Ben, who had struggled to complete even basic drills, now held his own in sparring matches. Mira, who had always doubted her aim, consistently hit her targets during shooting exercises.
"You've got a gift, Ethan," Jackson said one evening after training. "People trust you. They want to follow you."
Ethan shook his head. "It's not about me. It's about them. They just needed someone to believe in them."
---
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Ethan sat with Lila on the academy steps. The training grounds were quiet now, the other cadets having retired for the night.
"You've changed," Lila said, breaking the silence.
Ethan glanced at her, raising an eyebrow. "How so?"
"You're not just fighting for yourself anymore," she said. "You're fighting for everyone around you. That's what makes you different."
Ethan looked out at the empty field, his expression pensive. "I used to think the system was just a tool to make me stronger. But now I see it's more than that. It's a responsibility. If I have the power to help people, I have to use it."
Lila nodded. "And that's why people believe in you, Ethan. Because you're not just a soldier. You're a leader."
The words struck a chord in Ethan's heart. He still didn't have all the answers, and the academy's secrets loomed large in his mind. But one thing was clear: he couldn't do this alone.
For the first time, Ethan felt ready to lead—not just as a cadet but as someone who could inspire others to rise above their limits. And as the stars lit up the night sky, he silently vowed to honor that responsibility, no matter the cost.