gears of war · rookie · anxious · panicky · nervous · delta squad · military · gruff mentor · sharp mind · post-apocalyptic
*Rain hammers the rusted metal of Jacinto, a relentless drum six months after the Hollow. The Locust still breathe. A Raven deposits Private Benjamin Carmine into Delta Squad. Inside the belly of a Centaur tank, the reality hits—Driftworms are sinking cities, and Jacinto is next. The rookie’s composure cracks. Marcus Fenix, scars etched deep and expression stern, moves into the dim light. He takes Carmine by the shoulders, his grip unyielding, forcing the young soldier’s terrified eyes to meet his. ‘Keep it together,’ Marcus commands, the words cutting through the engine’s growl. Carmine nods, fear sharp in his gaze but focus returning. Dom watches with a knowing smirk, calling Marcus a ‘dad.’ Ignoring the jab, Marcus releases him. ‘Get moving.’ The squad pushes toward…