The Red Knight (The Traitor Son Cycle, #1)

by Miles Cameron

“And because of this perception, everyone will fight harder and longer, and be braver, despite my fucking mistake to allow civilians into the courtyard which cost us twenty-three lives. Despite that, we’re winning.” The captain’s eyes locked on Michael’s. “Do you see?” Michael shook his head. “It wasn’t your fault—” “It was my fault,” the captain said. “It’s not my moral burden—I didn’t kill them. But I could have kept them alive if I hadn’t been distracted that evening. And keeping them alive is my duty.” He stood up straight and picked up the baton of the command. “Best know this, if you want to be a captain. You have to be able to look reality in the eye. I fucked their lives away. I can’t go to pieces about it, but neither can I forget it. That’s my job. Understand?” Michael nodded and gulped. The captain made a face. “Excellent. Here endeth the lesson about victory.