Another list

High Guard’s commander-in-chief has a special relationship with his subordinates. Receiving list of casualties every evening is the worst part of his day during the Oram war.

Another list came today

list full of names

shaking I reach out to touch the colorful screen

to open the saddest list of all

 

Nimm Aria was killed in the purple forests of Nimia four

his son was shot down five days ago over Nr'sharin

the family has yet to receive both news

oh, how cruel these lists are

 

Jaina Farwell was shot in the dancing fields of Aderia

the Aderian Moon Dancers danced for her that night

her sister serves aboard this ship

I must give her that flower and hold my tears

 

Daniel Athinkson fell on Rah'sephm, oh stars!

Why him! Oh stars! Why him!

Why my son's teacher? And my friend!

Oh you cruel list!

 

Who can be so cruel and see these as just statistics?

Or void names?

How can I look at these

and continue in this bloody business?

 

Why do I have to dread every evening?

When another list comes out?

What names will it hold?

Who will I forever confine to my memories?