The rhythmic clang of steel on steel echoed across the parade ground, a metronomic beat punctuated by the grunts of exertion and the sharp commands of instructors. Erich, sweat plastering his dark hair to his forehead, parried a blow from Sergeant Meier, his muscles burning but his focus unwavering. He’d deliberately pushed himself harder than necessary during this bayonet drill, a calculated gamble to attract attention. And it seemed to have paid off.