PART IIII: Same War, Different Battle

The great powers of the world, countries exerting their influence on a global scale, had converged all across Europe. A chancellor rose in command, abolished democracy, rearmed his country and launched all out war on the surrounding territories. With blitzkrieg tactics, he swept the land with elite fighting power, and overwhelming vigor. Hitler believed "Strength lies not in defense, but in attack.." "Germany will either be a world power, or will not be at all." Here's hopin' for the latter.

Most of the men where sleeping for first watch that night, while I sat on the perimeter of our encampment. Reading over Scarlet's letters I could picture the way she smelled perfectly, as if she was here meeting me for the first time all over again. Her beautiful form captivated my mind and set it ablaze. I began writing, doing my best to reassure her of my safety and my love.

"…It looks like this war will be over soon, at least the end is in sight. The Germans still have a lot of fight left in them even they know they lost the war. It looks like they are intent on making it a costly victory. Darling everyday that passes is a day nearer to home and a day closer to you. Lets hope and pray that God will hasten this end. Will write tomorrow.

All my love,

Liam"

Things would be different after this war was over, much different. Could I look her in the eyes and tell her that I am fine, knowing damn well the demons I've picked up. Will she still love me after the hell and murder I've endured so far away from her gentle arms? I placed the letter down, and pulled out my pack of lucky strikes and her picture. I flicked my zippo to light my cigarette, illuminating her beauty on the 2x3 photo. I smiled as though she could see me.

I was on the ground before I heard the shot, it must have come from some distance. Pain surged through my muscles as I clutched my chest, feeling warm vital fluid leave my body. With shaking hands I reached under my back to find an exit wound, and more warmth. I some how managed to hold on to her picture when the bullet hit me, and paniced at the thought of never seeing her again. I don't remember much after that, just the sky above illuminated with flares and millions of stars. "Sniper!" "Medic!!" ..two words you never want to hear.

I woke up near a week later, in some OD colored nightmare, all sorts of tubes and bandaging in and on my body. I rolled over onto my side and let out a deep groan, feeling overwhelming pain throughout my chest. This is when I saw her letter.

"Dearest Liam,

I know this isn't the way it’s supposed to be done. Writing like this. But, it’s the only way I have left. Sitting at home, unable to look into your eyes, my mind goes blank, my thoughts jumble, and I am left with nothing for you but tears.

Being this far away from you has put a weight on my heart, and I don't know if I can bare it any longer. I wish I did not have to pass the burden onto you, while fighting for our nation.. but I must persist. Being with you has taught me so much that I will cherish well into my declining years. I wish for you, a happiness that will endure.

Good-bye my love,

Scarlet"

..Oh for fucks sake.