They knew in their flesh that the service of the King Our Lord was fed up when it comes to dying, but of poor payment in the remaining alive.
In "The Breda Sun," Arturo Pérez-Reverte explores the complex relationship between soldiers and their loyalty to the crown. The quote reflects the soldiers' deep understanding of the sacrifices demanded by their service, highlighting the grim reality of warfare where they faced death without adequate reward for their perseverance in life. Their physical struggles symbolize the emotional and moral burdens they bear while serving the king.
This acknowledgment of the disparity between sacrifice and reward emphasizes the toll that conflict takes on individuals. The soldiers realize that their commitment to the king often leads to dire consequences, including the loss of life, yet they remain bound to their duty. This tension illustrates the harsh realities of loyalty and the often unrecognized sacrifices made by those fighting for a cause.
