***Content warning: This chapter contains references to depression and suicidal ideation.
The first time he'd heard the voices, was on his very first mission. It had been five months since his family had died, and he'd been sent to the field before he could fully process his loss.
He couldn't remember ever crying during that time, not because he didn't want to, but because he didn't have the time to cry. There was too much going on, and he had to learn at a very young age how to suppress his emotions.
Conceal don't feel. Don't ever let them know what you think. Emotions are weakness. They are deadly and can be weaponized.
It was the mantra he'd repeat to himself over and over again every time he was deployed. Every time he was out there taking a life.
