Of a soldier.

I knew a man once, many years ago. One might say I knew him in passing. He was a leader in some ways, though he tried not to think of it in that manner. He tried instead to think of his duties as a way of life. Born as a Protector, he did all he could to strive toward his goal in doing the best as he was able. Often, he succeeded in that. There were failures too, of course, as there always are. One cannot acheive absolute perfection.

He worked in tandem with another, a Guardian. This Guardian came from afar in search of peace. He had led an existence filled with strife and despair, much in the same way the Protector had. They shared an understanding. However, this Guardian brought with him War. Granted, the enemy had always been there, but the Guardian brought the enemy closer than ever, and the Wars escalated. The Protector stayed behind to keep safe the small ones, whilst at the same time watching the world Outside, knowing the dangers there as well.

It was nearly nine years ago that the Guardian was killed, presumably in action. The Protector was lost, set adrift by this new situation, and had no choice but to take up the Guardian's duties, as well. It was a matter of honor and respect. It had to be done.

The Protector floundered in this new position. He had become Guardian Protector and Battalion Commander all at once, and in the early days of the transition, he committed several grieveous sins. His rage got the best of him, and in that, he did nothing but perpetuate the atrocities occuring. He did unto others as was done to him, and even whilst committing these acts, he knew it was wrong...yet, he continued, with a mixture of self-loathing and unholy glee battling for his heart.

He thinks back to those days, I am told. In doing so, he recalls his short-comings and tries to learn from them, as I really do not believe he is quite so evil a man as some may think. he ponders upon these things when a paramount decision is to be made; one that will forever change what he knows and cares for. He has such a decision now, and he believes he has made the correct choice, but fear still grips him, and he wonders.

I keep in contact with him from time to time, and I wonder, as well. One can only hope he really has grown, and has learned, and has risen above the past.