A Deserter in Time of War Summary

Unk's company begins its six-mile march to the place where the invasion fleet of spaceships will depart. Along the way, they pass through Phoebe, the sole city on Mars, which exists solely to provide materials for the invasion. Unk is carrying a large mortar weapon with Boaz, who marches behind him. Boaz tells Unk that he has arranged for them to fly on a two-man non-combat mother ship loaded with provisions like candy, soft drinks, games, and other items. He asks Unk if he doesn't agree that it is a lucky assignment. Unk agrees that it is lucky as he casually drops a live grenade into a sewer as they pass.

The grenade explodes, sending all the soldiers flying to the ground. Boaz lifts his head and sees that all is clear, and...