What is the conflict of guests of the nation?

In "Guests of the Nation" by Frank O'Connor, the central conflict revolves around the moral dilemmas faced by a group of Irish rebels who are tasked with guarding two British prisoners during the Irish War of Independence. As relationships develop between the captors and their prisoners, the conflict intensifies when the rebels must confront their duty to their cause versus their growing empathy for the prisoners. Ultimately, the story explores themes of loyalty, humanity, and the tragic consequences of war, leading to a heartbreaking climax that forces the characters to confront their own beliefs and actions.