Looking for the right word...

Hey guys, sorry if this is in the wrong place, just looking for a little help here.

Basically, here's an excerpt from my WIP novel, entitled Alien Dusk, and I was wondering if you guys could help me out here.

Here's an excerpt in which the word in question features:

Basically, I need a word to substitute courage. Is it this word appropiate for the situation in question, or is there something else that I can replace it with?

 

You're talking about the need to shoot someone who isn't bad, or wasn't bad, but is now dangerous? So it's not about danger but the horror of killing someone for everyone else's good?

Strength, maybe?

 

Resolution or fortitude, perhaps?

 

A necessary evil?

 

Resolve?

 

Took the word right out of my mouth.

Was just about to suggest this word.

 

What is the feeling you want to convey? Is it the ability to over come their fear, the definition of courage or is it something else? Let us know and we can help.

I personally might call it compassion but I could be off base.

 

Thanks for the tips, I think I'll most likely go with Resolve.

 

I was going to suggest "callousness", but "resolve" sounds even better.