Jenkins I try to focus on my task. It’s something mechanical, something I’ve done hundreds of times. Before my mind broke, I could fight on the front lines without feeling like I was falling apart, so now I just need to let instinct take over and do what I do best. I take a deep breath and glance sideways at Zeldric as he moves away, leading a large group of men. It would be easier if I weren’t so terrified of losing him. We move a few more meters. I’m leading another group—mostly Russians, along with Beni, who is stuck to my back, mimicking my every step. I want to believe I’ve trained him well, at least well enough to survive this battle. The first shots ring out, and I squeeze my eyes shut. I search for a way to detach myself from my own mind, to do what I must to save the people I

