When Panic Meets Courage — War and Peace

Russian infantry spill from the wood in disorder until one cry, Cut off!, infects the ranks with panic. The general races into fire not from heroism but terror that his spotless record will be ruined at headquarters.

Timókhin's company, lying in ambush, charges with drunken fury and steadies the flank; Dólokhov seizes a prisoner at his collar. Meanwhile Túshin's four guns keep firing after supports vanish, drawing French attacks and setting Schön Grabern ablaze while the men cheer each shot like a game.

Staff officers shout retreat twice; Prince Andrew arrives, steadies himself, and helps limber the last guns under fire. He respects Túshin in silence; the meek captain weeps at parting. Panic spreads fast, but one held post and one calm witness can still matter.