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  Yesterday, I helped unload supplies. Today’s my first mission—sneaking out at dawn through the trees with my squad.

  Our mission is to locate the nearest enemy base. I’m nervous as hell, but all that torture and training over the years won’t be for nothing.

  I kept walking cautiously with my squad, gripping the RX-90 pistol. Sharpened my eyes and ears, keeping my body as alert as possible. No room for mistakes.

  My heart pounded hard. My eyes scanned the forest as we passed obstacles. I motioned to a patch of dirt and leaves—something felt off.

  —Everyone, stop. Think there are mines.

  We’re already halfway. I swallowed hard, and my squad wasn’t any calmer. The squad leader turned to me.

  —You sure?

  —Yeah… let’s take another path.

  He seemed unsure, so I took the lead. Can’t let stupidity get me killed—dying here’s a luxury I can’t afford.

  I turned, slipping out of the forest and signaling them to follow. Safer than in there. Pretty sure it’s mined.

  Took a deep breath as we moved, now more hidden but safer from my perspective.

  Slid down the dirt hill with my allies, crawling forward. If there are mines here, there’s a reason. Must be something important. I lifted my head slightly, spotting a tent in the distance—would’ve mistaken it for a hill if not for the wind rustling the surface. Waved at the leader.

  —We should wait here until they send more people. When they switch shifts, that’s our chance.

  Murmured, locking eyes with the hesitant man. He doesn’t seem fit to lead.

  He bit his lip and sighed in agreement. Guess the sergeant didn’t have much hope we’d return alive. But I have to make it back.

  —Let’s do it.

  I y there, covering myself with dry dirt. My eyes grew heavy as the sun rose. The day dragged on, muscles tense, head exhausted.

  Breathed slowly, watching a rge man exit the tent and wave. They were carrying crates—mines. Probably setting more up… Bit my lip hard and leaned in.

  —Now. Let’s go. Soldiers are shifting.

  A gap—what we’d waited hours for. Crawled slowly, the others followed. Narrowed my eyes and waited until the soldiers moved into the forest.

  Stood up, slipping into the man’s tent. My hand moved faster than my thoughts—the slightest hesitation before the shot went through his ribs. He turned fast, gring at me, and raised a pistol from his waist. I aimed the RX-90 precisely, firing again. My heart froze as I dodged a stray bullet.

  My stomach churned. Bit my lip, crouched, and grabbed his gun. Heard more shots and ducked into another hut. Quickly took out the few remaining soldiers.

  My body buzzed with adrenaline. These people… died li

  ke it was nothing. This’ll haunt me forever.