The Greatest Lie

Strap on your Boots, Soldier

Scientists and biologists could never explain why humans were given a greater intellect than other animals and plants that lived on Earth. The ability for people to rationalize using logic, change their minds on a whim, and create fantastical technology was something no other creature in the animal kingdom was capable of. For centuries it was believed that the consciousness that people possessed came from their creator or a higher power. As time went on and scientific theory was perfected, it became evident that life was possible without the need for a god creating us, but the question still remained of what made us different from other mammals. If evolution was the scientific explanation, then why hadn't all the ape like creatures that we supposedly came from evolved into intelligent beings like humans. It was an evolutionary advantage to be able to make tools and houses, to be able to solve complex problems, and use our brains over our brawn. The aliens that were capable of infiltrating Russell's mind reminded him of his inner consciousness and if he didn't know any better, he would have believed the thoughts had come directly from his own mind. This experience made Russell question if the thoughts he had over his entire life were even his own to begin with. If these aliens were capable of doing this, then it was always possible that something else could be doing the same.

It was as if Russell had been forgotten about. No one had come to find him for dinner last night and if he had waited around for orders, he would have missed a meal. His bunk neighbor seemed to be the only person paying any attention to trying to acclimate Russell into this new way of life. After they had finished making their beds and changing into a fresh uniform, Russell joined Liam as they left the bunk room and made their way back to the cafeteria. He had taken a liking to Russell, and Russell greatly appreciated that the man was willing to look out for him when he was so close to being at the end of his tour of duty. Russell felt relieved that he had a friend to sit down with and was no longer looking like the loner he did last night at dinner. The cafeteria was crowded, but relatively silent compared to the commotion you would expect from such a group. They both loaded up their plates with what Russell hoped was oatmeal and filled their cups with a black sludge that Russell assumed was coffee. He was never much of a coffee drinker, but everyone else here was indulging, so he decided it was best to do what everyone else was doing. The coffee was barely warmer than room temperature and its bitter taste shocked his mouth as it went in. He almost spit it out, but was able to choke it down before turning his attention to the off white chunky liquid that was on his plate. There was no sugar or maple syrup to make it easier to stomach, but he was hungry after neglecting most of his food from the night before. It was better than what he had for dinner, but not something he would go out of his way to try and consume. He held in his complaints as he watched Liam scarf down the food and down the cup of coffee in just a couple gulps.

"What do you think they will have me do today? I was told I would get basic training once more recruits showed up. No one had even talked to me since I was brought here besides you." He began to interrogate Liam, who could see that Russell was nervous.

"The only training I've ever heard about is on the job. We are going out for another scouting mission to see if we can find where the creatures are hiding. Usually we just end up driving around all day and returning by dinner. I'll let them know you can come with us and I'll keep an eye on you." Liam explained as he immediately took the initiative to take Russell under his wing.

"There's no training for becoming a soldier? I've never even held a gun, let alone shot one. There has to be some sort of program for new soldiers coming in right?" Russell questioned, concerned by the conflicting information he had received since being deemed the first recruit.

"I think those guns are just a placebo to make us feel a little safer. Not one soldier here has been saved by his gun against these creatures. You'd be better off pleading for your life from those creatures than trying to shoot them. Just stick with me and I'll show you how I've survived this long." Liam responded as Russell was forced to accept his explanation.