The Vanguard platoon erupted in cheers, their victory cries echoing across the field as members exchanged high fives and celebratory grins.
Gao Tian was among them, his face lit up with a broad grin as he slapped palms with his teammates.
Turning to the girl beside him, he chuckled, reaching out to ruffle Jiang Xiu's hair. She pouted, swatting his hand away and hastily fixing her hair.
"Don't look so gloomy," he teased. "I'm sure Jiang Yue's happier about us winning than her own platoon losing."
"Hey, I am happy," Jiang Xiu replied, though her tone carried a hint of defensiveness. She wiped her hands on her pants, wincing slightly at the sting in her palms. "I just… expected them to win."
Gao Tian shrugged casually. "So did I. But hey, surprises happen."
