Read The Faith: Book I of the Uprising Trilogy Page 40

  Dulce et Decorum

  The snows of Russia had ravaged my country, and the Emperor was dredging the countryside. Every able-bodied man or youth was called upon to sacrifice. Nags hardly fit for plough-work were stolen — cavalry-mounts in the making. Bread and grain for troops were seized; wool, cotton, and all other textiles were commandeered for uniforms.

  And my Henri was made into a boy soldier.

  Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori — that's what they told me when they took him. They said I shouldn't cry. If he ever died, I should be happy! Dying for one's county is sweet and honorable, they said.

  Yes. I watched my son being led away, his child's eyes tracking my face. He waved to his sisters. Henri even stooped to pet his kitten one last time before the sergeant dragged him away by the arm.