Ling Chengyan didn't run ahead; instead, she ran at the back of the group, maintaining a steady pace.
Everyone was carrying a load of thirty kilograms, having just completed a 400-meter obstacle course. Everyone was a bit tired, so at this point, controlling the pace and conserving energy was particularly important.
They ran out of the city and onto an off-road path. It had rained the previous two days, so while the dirt road wasn't too muddy, there were still some small puddles that could make one slip if not careful.
This road condition increased physical exertion, and soon everyone's clothes were soaked with sweat.
Ling Chengyan grabbed the towel tied to her harness to wipe the sweat off her temples, then picked up the pace to run ahead, checking on everyone, reminding them to take sips of water or have something to replenish their energy.
