There were many ways to describe Raphael. Loyal, doting and brave included. Veteran, was not one of them.

While his sense of justice may have helped him stay dedicated to our cause, right now it only impacted his judgement. I could see his grief-stricken face and knew he was hesitating, so I looked him in the eyes, sternly, and reminded him that sympathy in war is deadly.

"I was aware. That child would have ran to the army. Then our location would be compromised, and the enemy storming here. Do you want that?"

Say what you will, but bluntness is better than euphemism. When shooting one could save a hundred, the chance must be seized. I made it this far because I was able to seize said chances, and I have seen too many good men fall because of hesitation. Raphael is a good man, and I hope truly hope that Irene will see him again.

Alas, it didn't go through. He somehow seemed even more passionate than before and even let slip on his promise to not swear. I tried changing the subject by pointing out different things. I was not successful.

"Killing a child," he ranted "who had so much to live for, is most definitely wrong. My wife always used to say that all things in the world should at least be given a chance in order to prove themselves. The bloody kid was traumatised - even an impulsive idiot like me could see that and- " His hand unconsciously closed into a fist. " -I sure as hell do not think he'd be able to - "

This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

Alright, this has gone on long enough. I opened my mouth to interrupt, but,

" -no, Dan, shut your bloody mouth. I know what I'm bloody saying because MY KID IS THAT AGE!"

...

That's right.

Irene and Raphael had a son. Arguing with him was not going to work. I sagged my shoulders, and realized I had been too heartless. Would I be different if I had a wife and kid, just like how Raphael had Irene and Richard?

I don't know. Unwittingly, I let out a sigh.

"It's not right, Dan. What you did isn't right" he said, but has he considered the bigger picture? Has he considered that the with the death of this child, the safety of countless others could be guaranteed? Others, like the corporal and the cheerful private, who would be able to go home and see their own sons and wives. Has he considered that? No, of couse not. Veteran was not a word that applied to Raphael.

I looked at the dead child, and suddenly I became aware of the rubble beneath my feet, rubble that had once been homes, where families like Irene and Raphael's cooked, played, and laughed. Families that would continue to have fathers if sacrifices were made.

What's done is done. In the end, 100% was still better than 99%. It's always crucial to be certain in the battlefield.

Sorry, Raphael, but...

"I'd rather not take chances."