Jessica and Justin froze. Their weapons were still at their feet, and their gear was in the truck. Eric sat down on the hood of their truck. "Look. I know you are tired and ready to be home, but this is not the time for complacency. Do you remember what I said before we left Hood Hill for Dresken?"
They both nodded, but Eric continued. "In the field or in garrison, you get yelled at. Maybe a truck collides with another in the motorpool, maybe we lose a tank in the desert, and some LT has to spend an entire week trying to find it. Out here?" He waved his right arm around, pointing to the various terrain features. "Those Cartharic soldiers could have been a scout party, or the forward advance of a larger force. You never know who or what is laying behind a corner in war. You two are capable and talented soldiers. Do not let that get to your head. No one is safe outside the wire. Ever."
