"I refuse, Sir. I will turn in my resignation letter tomorrow — and maybe my replacement would agree."

"132 men. That's how many who have died under your command, Major General Kim."

Major General Kim stopped.

"General, you might be my superior — but if you mention that one more time—"

"You know as much as I do that our country's victories in missions come with regular deaths in the battlefields — outside or inside our vicinities. And you think the government will let your replacement maintain that 20% retreat rate?"

"The 20% mostly come from international affairs, Sir — where our country provides help to other countries in need. I see no urgency to sacrifice our men for such causes."

"Exactly. But do you think the others will think the same as you? I'm willing to bet your replacement will never call in a retreat if half the unit is still alive. Our country might be powerful, but we also gain a lot of that influence from helping others and building international relationships. And with the growing population and talent — I don't see why your replacement wouldn't—"

"Cain's an exception, Sir—"

"But you did find him, right? And your unit's performance rose up the ranks? Your missions will decrease, yes — but they will get more dangerous. So why would you outright reject the national lab's offer on enhancing your men's chance of survival?"

Major General Kim bit his lip.

"I accept the offer. But just to some men."

He walked into his office and distributed shuffled cards to the fifty-two men.

Please don't be. Please don't be.

"Those who get non-numbers, raise your cards."

Cain raised an Ace.

Major General Kim's heart missed a beat.

Forgive me, kid.

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