Rory set his M4 against the wall and knelt to calm the frightened black lab. After the firefight, he’d found the dog shaking and curled up in the corner of a burned out building.
Responding to the soldier’s calm voice and slow movement, the dog allowed Rory to pet and soothe him. Taking the leash that was attached to the dog’s collar, he led the beast out into daylight. Removing his helmet, Rory filled it with the last of his water, watching with concern as the dog gulped it down. Scanning the area, his eyes picked out shattered buildings, abandoned cars and debris scattered streets. The last of the insurgents had fallen only minutes ago. This section of the city was nothing but death.
Rory had befriended an eight year old boy who’d lost his older brother to the war. Abir now lived in the Green Zone and while a dog was no replacement for a brother, Rory knew the dog would be loved.
Rory had taken life that day. Now he was able to save it.
Word Count: 177
[This is my entry this week into the Flash Fiction for Aspiring Writers challenge, hosted by Priceless Joy. A photo prompt is given and writers are encouraged to create a short story of 100 – 150 words, + or – 25 words.]
~V
A deeply sad but also heart touching story! It shows the devastation of war and loss of lives, yet the love and kindness in the soldiers heart toward a little boy that lost his brother. Wonderful story!
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Thank you!
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I love the imagery of this piece. I can actually see the burned-out buildings in my mind. Very well done 🙂 I am glad that the soldier gets to do something nice after taking part in a fire fight.
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Very touching, and nicely described.
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Thanks!
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Wow. This story is full of powerful emotion and imagery. It puts me right in the scene.
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Thank you!
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Great story, wonderful descriptive words. I like how the soldier is able to give back and help both Abir and the dog. A good side, to the cruelty of war.
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A sad but enjoyable tale.
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What a wonderful story! Rory had the right idea about how to bring some joy to both boy and dog.
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beautiful writing
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So very poignant–the idea that there is kindness and hope even among ruins and devastation. Thanks for the beautiful piece!
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You’re welcome. And thank you. 🙂
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Well written story with insightful imagery ….
Isadora 😎
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Thank you Isadora!
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I love this, makes the soldier all the more human.
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Since my son is currently serving in the military, it’s become easier for me to see the human side of combat. I’m glad you liked it. Thanks for reading. 🙂
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Very emotive and well told. I honestly shudder to think of lives deeply affected by war.
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As do I. Thank you.
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You are welcome 🙂
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Way to go Rory!!!! Well told!
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Thank you!
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