Chapter 5

He obeyed orders and carried them out to the letter, but seemed to lack imagination. Battle was a fluid thing and sometimes it was necessary to think on one’s feet, but Carl seemed to lack this ability. It caused strife among the other members. When not actively training, he spent an inordinate amount of time checking his gear, sharpening his knife or disassembling and cleaning his weapon rather than hanging out with others. Even at meal time, he kept himself apart, quietly observing and listening to them, but never actively participating in their conversations.

Not wanting any disharmony with his men, Augustus took Carl aside to confront him about these issues. Carl merely nodded quietly and shrugged when he was asked to work on them. Frustrated, Augustus demanded, “These men are your comrades. How can you expect them to watch your back if you don’t prove yourself to them?”

“I don’t expect them too,” Carl answered easily.

Augustus was at a