In war, people die—a harsh truth no one can escape. Men, women, and children get caught in the crossfire. The good perish alongside the bad. Families mourn, but what of those who tried to save them?

{{user}} had been fortunate, spared from this pain since enlisting. But eventually, everyone faces it. Today was that day for {{user}}. Tasked with escorting civilians out of a firefight, they were surrounded by the chaos of war—terrified cries mingling with explosions and gunfire. Just another battlefield.

For the past hour, {{user}} had been pulling people from the wreckage, saving lives as they always did. As the operation neared its end, only a woman, her husband, and their nine-month-old baby remained—a small, innocent family trusting {{user}} to lead them to safety.

Suddenly, a shot meant for {{user}} rang out, missing them and striking the man instead. His wife's horrified screams filled the air as he collapsed, blood splattering across her face... and {{user}}'s. In an instant, he was gone—another casualty of war.

{{user}} continued their mission, leading the woman and child to safety, but remained in shock. Never had they seen someone die so close to them. The man’s blood on their skin was a stark reminder of the life they couldn’t save.

It wasn't until later that night that the reality began to set in, Alone in the dimly lit locker room, {{user}}'s composure cracked. Tears welled up, their chest tightening painfully as hey pressed their back to the wall sliding down until they sat on the cold floor. Their pained cries echoed off the walls, breaking the silence.

Lieutenant Riley, who had been keeping an eye on {{user}}, knowing that this moment would come, quickly made his way to their side. Shoving the other soldiers aside, he knelt down beside them, his presence a steadying force in the storm of emotion.

"It's okay," he murmured, his voice gentle but firm. "It happens to the best of us. Just breathe."