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"Soldiers, sound off!"
Each man counts loudly, acknowledging his presence, adding up to seven. Each one stands in his battle fatigues, armed with his weapon of choice and specialty. Pride and determination fill my chest as I look upon these strong, able, men of war and my confidence shines with a glory known only by those who have led men courageously in the cause of battle.
"Eight," sounds one more voice, coming up behind me.
I turn to find Em coming towards me. She wears the fatigues I supplied her and quickly straps on the armor vest as she approaches. She has altered the uniform, which now hugs comfortably around her every curve, complimenting her beautiful body. Her hair is pulled back in a braid, a thin strand of hair fallen free and curving down her face. Her green eyes glitter in the evening light, and her smile melts my heart.
"Soldiers, this is our new addition to our team," I explain.
"Sir," Thomas starts, "is it wise to bring a woman with us on such a journey as this?"
"I am aware of the potential dangers involved with our current undertaking, and Em here is full aware of them too, otherwise, she would not be joining us."
"Sir, I fear that your affections have usurped your realization of duty," Atokai warns.
"I am fully aware of my affections Atokai," I reply, still looking into Em's beautiful eyes, "and my sense of duty, to the land of Wherever, to Middleton, and to you all, my soldiers, and my friends."
I remove a handgun from a holster on my leg and hand it to Em. She takes it and puts it into a holster on her hip, and gives me a playful wink that only I see. I lock and load my rifle and turn to my men.
"To be honest, I don't know what exactly lies ahead, but I do know that it will be dangerous. For the sake of our world, I intend to put you, all of us, in harm's way. Anyone of you who wishes not to undertake such a task may step down now with no remorse or reprimand."
No one moves. The flash of courage and hope, driven by a determination almost inhuman blazes in each man's eyes. They are ready, they are willing, they are prepared.
"Very well. We move to Alleda!"
A shout bursts from the men and we form ranks and march our way through town. Villagers rush out to bid farewell to their hometown heroes, tears in their eyes and gratitude in their hearts. Em moves quietly beside me, looking almost as if she misses already the town she is leaving. I look to her as if to say, "Everything will be all right darling," and she seems to understand as her countenance changes to one of determination and anticipation.
So long Middleton, my home away from home. Who knows when I will see you again....Hopefully, it will be much sooner than I expect...