["Which part?" Richard almost asks Scott but holds his tongue. It dawns upon him that the youth might not have anything specific in his mind when he asks that question. He allows a brief silence to fall between them as he thinks through his answer. As a child, Richard had wanted nothing more than join his father into battlefield, kill all their enemies and reap glory. But the reality had been different. He still remembers vividly the pain and fear that he had felt after his first kill.

Did it get easier for him? The easy answer is yes. But he understood that might not be the answer that the youth needed.]

There are parts that you do get used to. The rhythm, routine, sleeping in tents, being always in alert, the stench of blood. [He answers, placing his weapons back on the table.] You might get learn to expect certain but no war or battle is the same. Fooling yourself into sense of security is nothing but a death sentence. As in battle you might even have to face your friend or family. What is important is to remember what or who are you fighting for. Never lose that conviction.

Have you ever killed anyone?