For this one: You must make sure you'll be safe while risking your life in a war.
THE DAM (any gender, mid teens through late life)
No sir, the idea... the IDEA is clear: I wait for the enemy to cross halfway. Once they're halfway across the river bed, I press the button. After I press the button, the dam bursts and the enemy washes away. Simple. Yes-- but, but... sir: just one more moment of your time, please.
Because... well, what if the enemy is faster than we think?
What if they cross the river bed before I burst the dam?
Then they're up on the hill and coming for ME.
And if it's just me here at the control tower, then I don't really stand a chance against them...
But, but, but I understand... I UNDERSTAND... you need all your OTHER soldiers on the front line. So... okay.
But... but sir. SIR. I'm sorry, I know you have to go, but, but just one moment... because I just wonder...
What if only ONE of the enemy crosses the river bed? A scout?
You know, the rest of the enemy are on the bank on the other side?
Seeing what happens?
And I don't know if I could battle even just one of the enemy. I have this problem with anxiety. I kind of freeze up. So... if that were the case-- and I know you have to go, I'm sorry, but, but-- if that were the case...
could I have your permission to open the dam on just the ONE enemy?
Or two? How about two?
Two is the minimum, how about that?
I really do want to support this battle, I just--
why are you looking at me like that? No disrespect but, but, I am rather sensitive-- you know, the anxiety condition-- and I know you have to go, but... well, I'm feeling nervous because... well, if I may be so bold sir: you look annoyed with me.
Copyright 2016 by Matt Haynes. If you would like to use this piece, please credit: "Courtesy of Matt Haynes and The Pulp Stage"