บท 70: Test End [I]

The oppressive dryness of the air clawed at their throats as they pushed forward.

Each step that they took was heavy with exhaustion. Their bodies were slowing down due to toxins in their system.

Still, they ran.

As fast as they could in their condition, at least.

The distant screeches of the monstrous spider and the frantic cries of the unfortunate Cadets it had been diverted to still echoed faintly in the forest.

The looming mountain at the center of the dome grew closer, its jagged peak slicing through the artificial sky like a serrated blade.

Squad 10 exited the dense forest of black trees and entered a thin clearing around the tall mountain.

But winning this test wasn't going to be so easy.

Michael turned to look back and, sure enough, faint movement stirred in the distance behind them.

The teams that had been pursuing them averted their course to avoid confronting the spider beast and seemed to regroup.