Rambling self-justification by the general, who seems to be becoming unhinged by anticipation of the coming battle. The empty helmet is a good metapor – his mind very much elsewhere.

When I read this story the first time, the last sentence of the piece seemed like a statement of intent. However, given how the story has turned, it now reads only as a prediction of the immediate future if nothing changes.

@august
Very astute comment and I must admit that sentence does hinge on my exploration of this character. Perhaps when I wrote this, I felt that death would come on his decision. It has been a good ride with General Arlin.