My Beloved Has Risen from Death's Embrace novel Chapter 256

"Isn't that a bit of an exaggeration?" Xanthea held back a laugh, giving him a thorough once-over, trying to offer some comfort, "But you do seem a bit different, like you've gone from a puppy to a wolf cub."

"Really?"

Nelson, surprised, rubbed his buzz cut. Did it actually work? After playing the vulnerable character in a drama series, he had been constantly criticized for being too effeminate. He never imagined that one day he'd be praised for looking tough, and by such a stunning woman!

Before he could revel in his newfound appreciation, a stern, icy command came from off-camera, "Nelson, move to the back of the line."

"?!"

Nelson turned, his eyes wide with shock as he looked at Orion.

Why? Had he really turned uglier, so ugly that he didn’t even deserve a spot at the front anymore?

Xanthea was surprised too, gazing toward Orion to meet his icy stare and his clearly shaped lips—'The wolf cub?'

She immediately shook her head. She wasn’t into 'wolf cubs,' nor was she into 'puppies.' She liked... him.

But Orion obviously didn't believe her shake of the head; he quietly took note.

William barked, “Attention! At ease... Everyone lift your heads, stand tall, and be spirited. That’s how trainees should appear!”

“Exactly, you all look great like this! Even without makeup, even with your hair cut, you still look stunning!”

“Now, let's start with the first task—every participant will stand at attention on the parade ground for 40 minutes. Those who pass this will earn one point. Any fidgeting, incorrect posture, or complaints of fatigue will result in a failure, and no points will be awarded!”

“What?!”

At this, a collective groan echoed among the group.

Isabella initially wanted to raise her hand too, but seeing Xanthea’s calm demeanor, she stopped herself.

No matter what, she couldn’t lose to Xanthea!

Although Xanthea appeared calm, the thought of standing under direct sunlight for 40 minutes made her nervous.

Her skin had always been more delicate than most, often bruising before she even felt pain. The idea of sunburn or blistering from prolonged exposure was daunting.

"No allergies? Good. Remember, this is Adventure Blitz: Two Days, One Night, not some holiday luxury!"

Jonathan commanded, "Company, left turn! Forward fifty paces to the center of the parade ground. Prepare to stand at attention!"

Out of the group of six, only Martin, who exercised regularly, seemed unfazed. The rest bore expressions of noble sacrifice, as if marching to their doom.