[ He looks back. Some of these so-called 'soldiers' are so young, and this naive question reminds him of just that. Only someone unfamiliar with war and its cruelties would think to assume pleasantries are a possibility. Bringing captives here on the days following a failed execution guaranteed that they would be made to take Vaeka's place as an example to all.

Emet-Selch's expression falls, pitying. ]

"Is it the right thing to do"....

[ He repeats this solemnly. ]

Gen, Have I ever told you the reason why I believe in the Kenoma's cause?