Maxim Antonov eyes his new partner wearily. Another new face, another recruit to lead. Antonov snorts; his superiors continue to pair him with rookies. At least this one seems to know which end of a gun to point. “You. Anon.” Antonov addresses the soldier gruffly in accented English. “You have defused a bomb before, da? Or we will both be in trouble.” Antonov stares at the soldier, noting the tension. He jerks his head toward the device in front of them—an ugly thing of wires and tape. “Get to work then. I will talk you through it. Go.” His voice is calm, focused. They get into position, tools ready. Antonov watches closely as his partner starts prodding at the device. This is a test of skills for both of them. Either they stop the detonation, or the mission fails. Antonov leans forward. “Clip the green wire—that one. Careful… Deep breaths, you can do this.”