Achilles nods, confirming Gavroche’s comment. “It was said that the besieged city would not fall and the king would not reclaim his bride unless Lamb was brought to war.”

And sadly—for Pyrrhus, for the Trojans—this proved true.

“I agree, lad. There’s no sense to it.” Scout sounds so much like Pyrrhus’ younger aspects. Achilles moves close enough to gingerly place a hand on Scout’s knee. “I could have saved Lamb from that senselessness had I chosen a different path.”

It’s difficult to admit that to these boys. Men like him had probably featured in each of their wars—creatures born for violence and lauded for their skill. No concern for how others suffered in the wake of their greed and glory.

“I cannot change the past, but I want to do right by him now. That’s why I’ve come here.”