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Ms.Ezra
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M
Ms.Ezra
Guest
Original poster
Anne is silent as she listens to Benji, mouth going slightly agape when he tells her Albert was responsible for the dead body at their feet. She looks down, shakes her head. "Jesus. I never knew he could do somethin' like that. Did he even hesitate?" Anne asks while she tries to envision what it had been like down here while she was upstairs, unconcious or drifting in an out until it was too late. She curses herself for not being there. If she had, her strength maybe could have turned that table on Hitler. Maybe.
"If he did, he didn't show." Odallwa answers her as he kneels down to pick up Delilah and carry her bridal-style over to where the other fallen were being gathered. Burial shrouds had been sent for, so for now the bodies were being cleaned as much possible. Anne watches him, then sees something else on the floor and bends down to pick it up. "What's this?" She asks Benji, holding out her find: a spent brass shell casing from the rifles the attackers had used.
"Something from your world is a safe assumption." The man with the armor and white cape interjects while stepping closer to the two. "I am Korlen of the White Guard, and I will admit I have not encountered weapons of your world. That in itself is a danger that must be corrected. So please, I ask you enlighten me." He says to Benji and Anne.
The pirate shrugs at Korlen and replies "No clue. Has to be from Benjie's time."
"If he did, he didn't show." Odallwa answers her as he kneels down to pick up Delilah and carry her bridal-style over to where the other fallen were being gathered. Burial shrouds had been sent for, so for now the bodies were being cleaned as much possible. Anne watches him, then sees something else on the floor and bends down to pick it up. "What's this?" She asks Benji, holding out her find: a spent brass shell casing from the rifles the attackers had used.
"Something from your world is a safe assumption." The man with the armor and white cape interjects while stepping closer to the two. "I am Korlen of the White Guard, and I will admit I have not encountered weapons of your world. That in itself is a danger that must be corrected. So please, I ask you enlighten me." He says to Benji and Anne.
The pirate shrugs at Korlen and replies "No clue. Has to be from Benjie's time."
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In many ways, Ben still couldn't believe what had happen as Anne was going through her own disbelieving phase. Yet no matter how much he wished, the war veteran knew there no way to change the facts.
Story of my damn life.
He thought with silent disgruntlement, while trying to see how he can help with the bodies. It was then that Anne found the shell casting, asking about it and Korlen the White Guard finally introduced himself, beginning a new round of discussion. The line of questioning reminded him of the times he and his fellow guerrillas would be debriefed following a mission. Collecting himself, Benjie first answered his comrade's question while taking a hold of it.
"This here is a spent cartilage of a modern bullet, .30-60 Springfield brand to be exact. Basically, it's one of the lean shaped successor of the musket ball from your era Anne. Where a musket ball can inflict great damage to your bones, but at a short distance while bullets can travel faster in an longer length when fired and kill someone instantly. Of course you have to aim at the vital areas of a body to make that possible. Also I believe the type of gun the robed sons of bitches were using, were browning automotic rifles, called BARs for short.
This weapon was, mainly used by the United States Army, whom I was allied with. Hell, they gave some of those guns to my fellow fighters during the war we were fighting. It is a heavy assault weapon, meant to lay out a lot of firepower between 'fast-automatic' at 500-650 rounds per minute or 'slow-automatic' at 300-450 rounds per minute."
Ben let that thought sink for the audience, while remembering grimly how effective the BAR was in tearing through human flesh. Something then occurred to Ben and he added.
"The problem with the browning automatic is that it uses up ammunition too fast and is heavy to carry for the wielder. It often forces the shooter to fire from the hip, making it less accurate than other rifles like my carbine and the big gun can overheat quickly, especially in hot weather. Also I noticed that they had a guy carrying ammo for the gunmen, before we killed him. Not to mention Hitler did seem pissed that they wasted so many rounds in this little raid of theirs. That tells me they likely don't have an extended source of ammunition for modern firearms yet.
Even so, they have enough to be dangerous with. We should also be concerned with the possibility that they may have other types of guns or even bombs."
Story of my damn life.
He thought with silent disgruntlement, while trying to see how he can help with the bodies. It was then that Anne found the shell casting, asking about it and Korlen the White Guard finally introduced himself, beginning a new round of discussion. The line of questioning reminded him of the times he and his fellow guerrillas would be debriefed following a mission. Collecting himself, Benjie first answered his comrade's question while taking a hold of it.
"This here is a spent cartilage of a modern bullet, .30-60 Springfield brand to be exact. Basically, it's one of the lean shaped successor of the musket ball from your era Anne. Where a musket ball can inflict great damage to your bones, but at a short distance while bullets can travel faster in an longer length when fired and kill someone instantly. Of course you have to aim at the vital areas of a body to make that possible. Also I believe the type of gun the robed sons of bitches were using, were browning automotic rifles, called BARs for short.
This weapon was, mainly used by the United States Army, whom I was allied with. Hell, they gave some of those guns to my fellow fighters during the war we were fighting. It is a heavy assault weapon, meant to lay out a lot of firepower between 'fast-automatic' at 500-650 rounds per minute or 'slow-automatic' at 300-450 rounds per minute."
Ben let that thought sink for the audience, while remembering grimly how effective the BAR was in tearing through human flesh. Something then occurred to Ben and he added.
"The problem with the browning automatic is that it uses up ammunition too fast and is heavy to carry for the wielder. It often forces the shooter to fire from the hip, making it less accurate than other rifles like my carbine and the big gun can overheat quickly, especially in hot weather. Also I noticed that they had a guy carrying ammo for the gunmen, before we killed him. Not to mention Hitler did seem pissed that they wasted so many rounds in this little raid of theirs. That tells me they likely don't have an extended source of ammunition for modern firearms yet.
Even so, they have enough to be dangerous with. We should also be concerned with the possibility that they may have other types of guns or even bombs."
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Ms.Ezra
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Korlen nods throughout Benji's explanation of the weapons used by Hitler's party, making mental notes. Anne plays with the spent shell casing as she listens, twirling it between her fingers as she tries to hang on everything Benji is saying. However she finds herself distracted by the turns the past day has taken. When the sun came up, they had left the Barbin and by midday found Jim's camp; which was a pleasant experience despite Albert's paranoid fantasy that Jim was some kind of budding dictator. Then that peaceful stop had turned around completely with the attack, and the loss of Yuzuki to some unknown weapon that had blasted her to bits(she assumed given what she'd seen). Then yet another peaceful period once the sun had set, followed shortly by...this.
Anne stops twirling the shell casing, and pinches it between two fingers as she thinks how things could have turned out better if only she hadn't been herself, and kept drinking that delicious liquid until she passed out. Maybe with all that alcohol in her, she could have powered right through whatever Hitler could throw, and ripped his head clean off. Maybe that last glass was to blame. One less and maybe, nobody else could have died, and Albert wouldn't have done what he did. Benji was quick to write off Albert as a traitor, and rightfully so, but in the pirate life Anne had been put in a position where she'd had to bend or break her already eschewed sense of morality in order to survive. Anne was able to reserve judgement until such time they met Albert again.
Korlen speaks aloud once Benji has finished, bringing Anne out of her thoughts back to the present. "No weapon is without flaw." He gives Benji a slight bow "Thank you. Armed with this, we can easily devise a means to exploit the weaknesses of their weapons. In fact, I would ask you both come with us to our barracks. You two may yet prove invaluable to our defense of the kingdom."
One of the Red Shield, a younger man than the rest, comes up with a huff. "How dare you! You stand here, your shadow on our fallen, yet still you wish to humiliate us?!" He points at Anne then Benji "Even now, you seek to recruit these two to insult our ability! Our mission!"
Korlen regards the young man with flared nostrils and narrow eyes. "Fool! You seek to quarrel now?" He reaches out and taps the man in the center of the chest, hard. "I forgive you only because I know you are rife with grief! Do not test my patience further."
The young Red Shield does not waver. His wet eyes flare open and he reaches for his baton. "I'll show you!" He yells and the rest of Korlen's men draw their swords. But Odallwa comes up behind him, and grabs his arm. The young one tries to pull away but cannot free himself from the other man's grip. "Odallwa?! Why-"
"Stand down." Odallwa orders while giving his arm a tight squeeze. "White Guard and Red Shield must work together. Our only enemy now is Hitler and all who stand with him." Odallwa closes his eyes and exhales slowly then opens his eyes. "We need time to gather our forces. The White Guard is more prepared than we are to face this threat with the help of the Strangers."
It is at this point that Anne clears her throat to get everyone's attention. "You." She jabbed the young Red Shield in the chest same as Korlen had done and speaks with a tone as if chastising a child. "Are forgetting we're not weapons, lad. We go where we wish, and since this one is bothering to ask I'm going with him. I know you're all hurtin'...but that's why I'm going. Ya can't be worryin' about us when ya got dead that need tending. That hurt yer pride? Well that's just damn tough." The young man, full of anger and bluster before, now deflates faced by his superior, Korlen, and Anne. He relaxes, and Odallwa releases him so he can return to the gathered dead.
"Sergeant, Captain." Odallwa addresses Benji and Anne "I apologize on his behalf. We have been at odds with the White Guard before, and he is too young to know set such pettiness aside. We will meet again when ready to assist in the campaign against Hitler."
"I thank you for your cooperation, Odallwa. We will keep you informed as our plans develop." Korlen gives his thanks and the two men give each other the same salute; arms held horizontally at chin height.
Odallwa leaves the trio as the burial shrouds are brought in from the front doors. The nurse comes up behind Anne, holding her hat in one hand and her light blue vest in the other. "Thank ye nurse." Anne takes them back and puts them all on as she talks to Benji. "Yer probably willing to wring Albert's neck next chance ya get, but I'll ask ya to not before I have words with him. Understood, Benny?"
Anne stops twirling the shell casing, and pinches it between two fingers as she thinks how things could have turned out better if only she hadn't been herself, and kept drinking that delicious liquid until she passed out. Maybe with all that alcohol in her, she could have powered right through whatever Hitler could throw, and ripped his head clean off. Maybe that last glass was to blame. One less and maybe, nobody else could have died, and Albert wouldn't have done what he did. Benji was quick to write off Albert as a traitor, and rightfully so, but in the pirate life Anne had been put in a position where she'd had to bend or break her already eschewed sense of morality in order to survive. Anne was able to reserve judgement until such time they met Albert again.
Korlen speaks aloud once Benji has finished, bringing Anne out of her thoughts back to the present. "No weapon is without flaw." He gives Benji a slight bow "Thank you. Armed with this, we can easily devise a means to exploit the weaknesses of their weapons. In fact, I would ask you both come with us to our barracks. You two may yet prove invaluable to our defense of the kingdom."
One of the Red Shield, a younger man than the rest, comes up with a huff. "How dare you! You stand here, your shadow on our fallen, yet still you wish to humiliate us?!" He points at Anne then Benji "Even now, you seek to recruit these two to insult our ability! Our mission!"
Korlen regards the young man with flared nostrils and narrow eyes. "Fool! You seek to quarrel now?" He reaches out and taps the man in the center of the chest, hard. "I forgive you only because I know you are rife with grief! Do not test my patience further."
The young Red Shield does not waver. His wet eyes flare open and he reaches for his baton. "I'll show you!" He yells and the rest of Korlen's men draw their swords. But Odallwa comes up behind him, and grabs his arm. The young one tries to pull away but cannot free himself from the other man's grip. "Odallwa?! Why-"
"Stand down." Odallwa orders while giving his arm a tight squeeze. "White Guard and Red Shield must work together. Our only enemy now is Hitler and all who stand with him." Odallwa closes his eyes and exhales slowly then opens his eyes. "We need time to gather our forces. The White Guard is more prepared than we are to face this threat with the help of the Strangers."
It is at this point that Anne clears her throat to get everyone's attention. "You." She jabbed the young Red Shield in the chest same as Korlen had done and speaks with a tone as if chastising a child. "Are forgetting we're not weapons, lad. We go where we wish, and since this one is bothering to ask I'm going with him. I know you're all hurtin'...but that's why I'm going. Ya can't be worryin' about us when ya got dead that need tending. That hurt yer pride? Well that's just damn tough." The young man, full of anger and bluster before, now deflates faced by his superior, Korlen, and Anne. He relaxes, and Odallwa releases him so he can return to the gathered dead.
"Sergeant, Captain." Odallwa addresses Benji and Anne "I apologize on his behalf. We have been at odds with the White Guard before, and he is too young to know set such pettiness aside. We will meet again when ready to assist in the campaign against Hitler."
"I thank you for your cooperation, Odallwa. We will keep you informed as our plans develop." Korlen gives his thanks and the two men give each other the same salute; arms held horizontally at chin height.
Odallwa leaves the trio as the burial shrouds are brought in from the front doors. The nurse comes up behind Anne, holding her hat in one hand and her light blue vest in the other. "Thank ye nurse." Anne takes them back and puts them all on as she talks to Benji. "Yer probably willing to wring Albert's neck next chance ya get, but I'll ask ya to not before I have words with him. Understood, Benny?"
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There were many more things Ben felt he needed to warn these people about but decided that can wait. Something then occurred to him, Albert was further into the future, though he never found out when exactly. Regardless it didn't change the fact that the American turncoat had some knowledge from then and give it to his new boss. In some ways the Filipino fighter was relieved he didn't share anything that could compromise himself to Al before the betrayal like tactics and such. There was no doubt they will need every advantage in this new war.
Those things occupied his mind until Korlen asked Anne and him to come to his unit's barracks and the young red guild member obviously grieving shouted at the White Guard. Hearing and watching their exchange, caused Ben to roll his eyes in disgust with both arms folded across the chest.
Funny, I don't recall me or Anne enlisting with any of their units. Sure we're fighting a common enemy but my loyalty is not so cheaply given. Hate to admit, it but this bullshit resemblances some resistance leaders I knew. Arguing and threatening each other over personal territories when they should've been more focused on defeating the occupation.
He was about to say something when Odallwa and then Anne beat him to the punch. Sighing weary relief when the situation calmed down Ben also saluted in his own style to the Red Shield Commander before he left to tend to the fallen. The guerilla stood and waited for Anne to get her effects from her nurse when she spoke to him, regarding Al. Squeezing his hands with barely restrainted fury and then released.
"Understood Anne."
He said with a bitter coldness that she never heard from him before during the short time they been together. Following the sea brigand and their new escort, the war veteran commented in his now normal tone.
"Could use some sleep right about now."
Those things occupied his mind until Korlen asked Anne and him to come to his unit's barracks and the young red guild member obviously grieving shouted at the White Guard. Hearing and watching their exchange, caused Ben to roll his eyes in disgust with both arms folded across the chest.
Funny, I don't recall me or Anne enlisting with any of their units. Sure we're fighting a common enemy but my loyalty is not so cheaply given. Hate to admit, it but this bullshit resemblances some resistance leaders I knew. Arguing and threatening each other over personal territories when they should've been more focused on defeating the occupation.
He was about to say something when Odallwa and then Anne beat him to the punch. Sighing weary relief when the situation calmed down Ben also saluted in his own style to the Red Shield Commander before he left to tend to the fallen. The guerilla stood and waited for Anne to get her effects from her nurse when she spoke to him, regarding Al. Squeezing his hands with barely restrainted fury and then released.
"Understood Anne."
He said with a bitter coldness that she never heard from him before during the short time they been together. Following the sea brigand and their new escort, the war veteran commented in his now normal tone.
"Could use some sleep right about now."
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Ms.Ezra
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Benji's subtle signs that letting her talk to Albert doesn't sit well with him are not lost on Anne. She has seen it all before when a new crew member didn't like her giving orders while Calico Jack was otherwise busy. She used to give the offending man a hard slap upside the head with the flat side of her cutlass, but she wasn't going to do that to Benji. He's seen enough tonight. Instead Anne steps toward Benji and pats him on the right shoulder "I don't like what he has to say for himself, you get first crack."
Having let the two have their moment, Korlen clears his throat to get their attention. "If you two have all of your affects, please follow me to our barracks." He turns and the other White Guards form up around them as they leave. A crowd of people has formed outside the hall, held at bay from looking inside by more members of the White Guard. The crowd parts before Korlen's entourage, craning their heads around to try and get a glimpse of the two at the center. A few manage and start a chain of whispers.
"They look odd. Have to be Strangers."
"Were they the cause of that commotion?"
"I saw burial shrouds being brought in just now. Maybe they killed some people…"
These whispers die down as they move away from the scene and they see civilians gallivanting around the streets, music pouring out from open doors and windows. Anne even hears familiar tones and thinks she would have loved to join in if things hadn't taken a bad turn.
Gradually the entourage comes closer to the grand castle at the center of York until they arrive and pass through the gates. From the gates they traverse a grand garden courtyard and are led away from the castle towards a three-story barracks to the side of the castle.
The doors are opened before the entourage and they see a typical military barracks, even if it was of a few centuries behind any Benji would have seen. The first floor was their mess hall/recreation/briefing space with about a dozen off-duty men about engaged in conversation or playing pong in the far right corner. Everyone stops what they are doing as Korlen enters; those playing pong letting the ball bounce away to stand at attention.
"At ease men." Korlen says to the men and gestures to the two Strangers. "We have guests. Strangers, who will be residing with you all for the time being. A full briefing will be conducted in the morning at sunrise, but for now no questions, and maintain your discipline." The men give a salute and united "Yes, sir!" To which Korlen says "Carry on." He then leads the two onward into the barracks and up a set of stairs to the next floor. The rest of the White Guards are dismissed and go about their business.
On this second story there are rows of bare feather mattresses on metal frames, and a wooden trunk at the foot for ones personal effects. In all there were fifty in close proximity to each other. Many of the beds are currently occupied by soldiers in light tunics and shorts either lying down with eyes closed, or lying down reading by the light of the torches on the wall. Korlen gives a preemptive "At ease" before any of those 'awake' stand at attention as he leads the pair down the middle of the rows to a pair of beds in the corner that are vacant with their trunks open. "Here are your beds for the time being. Should King Richard arrive tomorrow, you shall meet with him forthwith and he will decide your other arrangements. Until then, make yourselves comfortable." He gestures at the beds, then says specifically to Anne "You need not worry being surrounded by men, miss. The White Guard prides itself on utmost discipline."
Anne, who has been neutral and silent for the entirety of the walk from the gates to here, scoffs and sits on one of the beds, looking out over the men currently on this level. Her eyes are heavy from lack of sleep, but still manage to look unimpressed all the same. "I've always been surrounded by men. Only things different here is the beds are better and they smell better." Anne yawns and takes off her vest, holster, and scabbard to set them inside the trunk. She almost starts to take off her shirt, but gets it about half off before recalling where she was and pulling back down. She flops onto the bed, not even bothering to cover up with the thin cotton blanket provided.
"Wake me whenever breakfast is served." Anne mumbles and Korlen nods.
"Someone will let you both know." Korlen salutes and says "A good night to you both Captain, Sergeant." and leaves the pair.
Anne watches Korlen leave, looks at Benji at the bed next to her. "Fair warning Benny. I move and talk a lot in my sleep. No helping it." She says to him and puts her hat on the floor before rolling on her side away from Benji and closing her eyes. The day's events have been setting into her body gradually since reawakening to the recent mayhem. She was dreading the hangover that would have to be endured, but at this point that was inevitable.
All that was left to do was rest, face any nightmares or enjoy any dreams that came between them and morning.
Having let the two have their moment, Korlen clears his throat to get their attention. "If you two have all of your affects, please follow me to our barracks." He turns and the other White Guards form up around them as they leave. A crowd of people has formed outside the hall, held at bay from looking inside by more members of the White Guard. The crowd parts before Korlen's entourage, craning their heads around to try and get a glimpse of the two at the center. A few manage and start a chain of whispers.
"They look odd. Have to be Strangers."
"Were they the cause of that commotion?"
"I saw burial shrouds being brought in just now. Maybe they killed some people…"
These whispers die down as they move away from the scene and they see civilians gallivanting around the streets, music pouring out from open doors and windows. Anne even hears familiar tones and thinks she would have loved to join in if things hadn't taken a bad turn.
Gradually the entourage comes closer to the grand castle at the center of York until they arrive and pass through the gates. From the gates they traverse a grand garden courtyard and are led away from the castle towards a three-story barracks to the side of the castle.
The doors are opened before the entourage and they see a typical military barracks, even if it was of a few centuries behind any Benji would have seen. The first floor was their mess hall/recreation/briefing space with about a dozen off-duty men about engaged in conversation or playing pong in the far right corner. Everyone stops what they are doing as Korlen enters; those playing pong letting the ball bounce away to stand at attention.
"At ease men." Korlen says to the men and gestures to the two Strangers. "We have guests. Strangers, who will be residing with you all for the time being. A full briefing will be conducted in the morning at sunrise, but for now no questions, and maintain your discipline." The men give a salute and united "Yes, sir!" To which Korlen says "Carry on." He then leads the two onward into the barracks and up a set of stairs to the next floor. The rest of the White Guards are dismissed and go about their business.
On this second story there are rows of bare feather mattresses on metal frames, and a wooden trunk at the foot for ones personal effects. In all there were fifty in close proximity to each other. Many of the beds are currently occupied by soldiers in light tunics and shorts either lying down with eyes closed, or lying down reading by the light of the torches on the wall. Korlen gives a preemptive "At ease" before any of those 'awake' stand at attention as he leads the pair down the middle of the rows to a pair of beds in the corner that are vacant with their trunks open. "Here are your beds for the time being. Should King Richard arrive tomorrow, you shall meet with him forthwith and he will decide your other arrangements. Until then, make yourselves comfortable." He gestures at the beds, then says specifically to Anne "You need not worry being surrounded by men, miss. The White Guard prides itself on utmost discipline."
Anne, who has been neutral and silent for the entirety of the walk from the gates to here, scoffs and sits on one of the beds, looking out over the men currently on this level. Her eyes are heavy from lack of sleep, but still manage to look unimpressed all the same. "I've always been surrounded by men. Only things different here is the beds are better and they smell better." Anne yawns and takes off her vest, holster, and scabbard to set them inside the trunk. She almost starts to take off her shirt, but gets it about half off before recalling where she was and pulling back down. She flops onto the bed, not even bothering to cover up with the thin cotton blanket provided.
"Wake me whenever breakfast is served." Anne mumbles and Korlen nods.
"Someone will let you both know." Korlen salutes and says "A good night to you both Captain, Sergeant." and leaves the pair.
Anne watches Korlen leave, looks at Benji at the bed next to her. "Fair warning Benny. I move and talk a lot in my sleep. No helping it." She says to him and puts her hat on the floor before rolling on her side away from Benji and closing her eyes. The day's events have been setting into her body gradually since reawakening to the recent mayhem. She was dreading the hangover that would have to be endured, but at this point that was inevitable.
All that was left to do was rest, face any nightmares or enjoy any dreams that came between them and morning.
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A bit surprised at the pirate's offer, Ben simply nodded. He appreciated the gesture from Anne though Benjie wondered in the back of his mind if he could even restrain himself from trying to kill Al when given the chance. For I know that new Quisling will learn some new powers from his master by then. Why did this crazy world have to give those abilities to the likes of them? He thought when Korlen cleared his throat, letting the two Strangers know it was time to go.
Without further word Ben followed the White Guard commander, exiting from the now ruined tavern. Outside, the resistisnce fighter noticed the crowd gathering, only held back by Korlen's men. Ben didn't pay not much attention to the masses as they walked away but did heard what some were saying. Benjie in respond tilted his head a little lower, not wanting to show the grimace he had now to the public.
Well it is sort of true. I did killed in there, but in self defense. Knowing how gossip works, it's going to be a dozen versions of what happen tonight spread all over town.
He stopped thinking about the likely future issues when hearing music nearby. Granted it sounded a bit different from what he grew up with at home yet the melodies began to lift his weary heart if ever so slightly. Suddenly it gave some inspiration and he whispered. "Maybe I can find a guitar and play some of my own music some point. That would be nice."
Ben considered the possibilities when their small group reached the castle and entered its interior. When they reached entry toward barracks, the sergeant did noted the similarities and differences with type he had known during the war. He also smirked at how fast the soldiers stood at attention when their commanding officer appeared with them in tow and explained the situation. Once the troops were dismissed Ben with Anne followed their senior escort into the building.
For a moment Benjie felt like he was back in basic training when seeing the beds and it's occupants. Once they reached some available mattresses, the guerrilla removed the clip from his carbine and stored the gun within the trunk. He listen with silent amusement to the exchange between Korlen and Anne. It wasn't surprising to him, considering the lifestyle the Irish woman embraced.
Taking off the brown hat Ben then removed his shirt that revealed a few scars across his chest, stomach, and back when he caught Anne's warning.
"Trust me Anne whatever noise you make I can sleep through it."
He remarked, briefly remembering when he was to forced to awake thanks to constant Japanese bombardment during one brutal siege. When done with the boots and placing them next to the bed. Ben laid down. It took a few minutes to do so but he fell asleep in the end, it had been a long day after all.
Without further word Ben followed the White Guard commander, exiting from the now ruined tavern. Outside, the resistisnce fighter noticed the crowd gathering, only held back by Korlen's men. Ben didn't pay not much attention to the masses as they walked away but did heard what some were saying. Benjie in respond tilted his head a little lower, not wanting to show the grimace he had now to the public.
Well it is sort of true. I did killed in there, but in self defense. Knowing how gossip works, it's going to be a dozen versions of what happen tonight spread all over town.
He stopped thinking about the likely future issues when hearing music nearby. Granted it sounded a bit different from what he grew up with at home yet the melodies began to lift his weary heart if ever so slightly. Suddenly it gave some inspiration and he whispered. "Maybe I can find a guitar and play some of my own music some point. That would be nice."
Ben considered the possibilities when their small group reached the castle and entered its interior. When they reached entry toward barracks, the sergeant did noted the similarities and differences with type he had known during the war. He also smirked at how fast the soldiers stood at attention when their commanding officer appeared with them in tow and explained the situation. Once the troops were dismissed Ben with Anne followed their senior escort into the building.
For a moment Benjie felt like he was back in basic training when seeing the beds and it's occupants. Once they reached some available mattresses, the guerrilla removed the clip from his carbine and stored the gun within the trunk. He listen with silent amusement to the exchange between Korlen and Anne. It wasn't surprising to him, considering the lifestyle the Irish woman embraced.
Taking off the brown hat Ben then removed his shirt that revealed a few scars across his chest, stomach, and back when he caught Anne's warning.
"Trust me Anne whatever noise you make I can sleep through it."
He remarked, briefly remembering when he was to forced to awake thanks to constant Japanese bombardment during one brutal siege. When done with the boots and placing them next to the bed. Ben laid down. It took a few minutes to do so but he fell asleep in the end, it had been a long day after all.
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Ms.Ezra
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The night is no more pleasant for Anne than the last hour before she fell asleep in the barracks. As warned she would, she tosses and turns in bed as she experiences a very vivid, confusing and disturbing nightmare. Her legs kick slightly as in her nightmare she runs from the fire she had started on her father's plantation. The fire bites at her heels, and barks like a rabid dog. When she feels the heat on the back of her neck, and dreads this is the moment she dies, it is instead the heat of the Caribbean which engulfs her.
Then she's on a pier watching Calico Jack sail off in The Revenge. Her stomach is heavy, heart aching like never before. Her gaze looks down into the water, and she thinks What if I just jumped, and let the ocean take me?
Unlike the real moment years ago, Anne doesn't just walk off the pier into Cuba to give birth to the child in her belly and leave it. She isjumps in, and her feet fall on the deck of a ship. There are men fighting each other, sword to sword or hand to hand with no clear indication of who was friend or foe. Anne holds a cutlass in her right hand, and pistol in her left. A man runs at her with wild eyes, screaming, and without hesitation she slashes his throat in one quick motion. That one stops in his tracks clutching his throat, and suddenly she is being held from behind by a pair of steel strong arms. Try as she might, her strength fails her as the unseen man starts to slowly squeeze the life out of her.
That is when Anne wakes up, sitting straight up in bed and breathing heavily. The torches on the walls were extinguished some time ago, rendering the barracks dark save the dull dawn light coming through the windows. Anne looks around, sees that none of the White Guard have been woken up by the thrashing she had been doing moments before. She slows her breathing, calming down as her mind clears. Looking at her hands she flexes them tight, and doesn't feel the strength she'd had yesterday. Actually, she felt weaker. She felt just as she had in the dream, except now she had a massive headache as her body was severely dehydrated. She thought to get some booze fruit from her bags, but then remembered they had been left at the Red Shield Guild Hall. This elicits a frustrated groan from her, and she falls back onto the bed.
Then she hears people come up the stairs. Annoying in and of itself for someone suffering a hangover. But then two loud triumphant trumpet blasts are let loose by one of those who had come up the stairs.
This prompts all the White Guards to leap from their beds and stand at attention. Anne remains on the bed, hands over her ears grimacing.
Then she's on a pier watching Calico Jack sail off in The Revenge. Her stomach is heavy, heart aching like never before. Her gaze looks down into the water, and she thinks What if I just jumped, and let the ocean take me?
Unlike the real moment years ago, Anne doesn't just walk off the pier into Cuba to give birth to the child in her belly and leave it. She isjumps in, and her feet fall on the deck of a ship. There are men fighting each other, sword to sword or hand to hand with no clear indication of who was friend or foe. Anne holds a cutlass in her right hand, and pistol in her left. A man runs at her with wild eyes, screaming, and without hesitation she slashes his throat in one quick motion. That one stops in his tracks clutching his throat, and suddenly she is being held from behind by a pair of steel strong arms. Try as she might, her strength fails her as the unseen man starts to slowly squeeze the life out of her.
That is when Anne wakes up, sitting straight up in bed and breathing heavily. The torches on the walls were extinguished some time ago, rendering the barracks dark save the dull dawn light coming through the windows. Anne looks around, sees that none of the White Guard have been woken up by the thrashing she had been doing moments before. She slows her breathing, calming down as her mind clears. Looking at her hands she flexes them tight, and doesn't feel the strength she'd had yesterday. Actually, she felt weaker. She felt just as she had in the dream, except now she had a massive headache as her body was severely dehydrated. She thought to get some booze fruit from her bags, but then remembered they had been left at the Red Shield Guild Hall. This elicits a frustrated groan from her, and she falls back onto the bed.
Then she hears people come up the stairs. Annoying in and of itself for someone suffering a hangover. But then two loud triumphant trumpet blasts are let loose by one of those who had come up the stairs.
This prompts all the White Guards to leap from their beds and stand at attention. Anne remains on the bed, hands over her ears grimacing.
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As for Ben he stayed still for the most part. Turning once to the side then a few minutes later toward the opposite. Within his dream-like state he was seven years old and saw his father Kidlat, bare chested and wearing only white pants tended to his fishing nets wit on the coast of Zamables and beckoned him to come. A moment later Ben now twelve years old, sat at the family table with a candle light nearby, trying to read a book about the Shakespeare play Macbeth, before feeling a gentle hand on his shoulders and looked, seeing the tired yet loving face of his mother, Mutya.
Instantly the scene changed with him sixteen around a street corner, trading fists with another teenager, taller and stronger than him and getting pummeled. Next, Benjie turned eighteen with guitar in hand sat on a bench playing a sweet melody at park within Manila when a girl of similar age, long raven hair and beauty brown eyes, wearing a green dress walked up to him with a mischievous smile. In his sleep, the sergeant muttered a name repeatedly in an loving tone that the now awaken Anne could hear.
"Madelyn, Madelyn."
Soon however the dream turned into a nightmare of white planes with marked with red sun symobls, dropping bombs overhead and mortar shells raining down on the ground. Soon machine gun rattled repeatedly and rifle fire rang out in his mind, causing Ben grimace and stir around more violently than before. He can hear dying men screaming in agony and see bodies torn to pieces all around him. Then the Filipino fighter now in an foxhole and in army uniform watch dozens of Japanese charging with bayonets toward the bar wire in front of him, shouting out in their hateful language.
Suddenly a shell landed on top of the foxhole, causing Benjie jump waist up on the bed with newfound sweat on his brow just as Anne tried to rest again. Looking around the barracks confused, Ben then finally remembered where he was and lowered his head. Then a trumpet bared out, letting everyone else know to wake up for someone
Sure dosen't sound like how they played back at basic training. More like from that movie about Robin Hood. Errol Flynn was magnificent in that role.
That thought had to wait, as he watched the White Guard members stand at attention. The resistance fighter took a good guess that the King or someone representing him was coming in shortly. Benjie quickly grabbed his shirt and button it up, may as well look somewhat decent he thought. Then he stood up on both feet next to the bed and nodded good morning to his pirate comrade while they waited for the approaching entourage to come in.
Instantly the scene changed with him sixteen around a street corner, trading fists with another teenager, taller and stronger than him and getting pummeled. Next, Benjie turned eighteen with guitar in hand sat on a bench playing a sweet melody at park within Manila when a girl of similar age, long raven hair and beauty brown eyes, wearing a green dress walked up to him with a mischievous smile. In his sleep, the sergeant muttered a name repeatedly in an loving tone that the now awaken Anne could hear.
"Madelyn, Madelyn."
Soon however the dream turned into a nightmare of white planes with marked with red sun symobls, dropping bombs overhead and mortar shells raining down on the ground. Soon machine gun rattled repeatedly and rifle fire rang out in his mind, causing Ben grimace and stir around more violently than before. He can hear dying men screaming in agony and see bodies torn to pieces all around him. Then the Filipino fighter now in an foxhole and in army uniform watch dozens of Japanese charging with bayonets toward the bar wire in front of him, shouting out in their hateful language.
Suddenly a shell landed on top of the foxhole, causing Benjie jump waist up on the bed with newfound sweat on his brow just as Anne tried to rest again. Looking around the barracks confused, Ben then finally remembered where he was and lowered his head. Then a trumpet bared out, letting everyone else know to wake up for someone
Sure dosen't sound like how they played back at basic training. More like from that movie about Robin Hood. Errol Flynn was magnificent in that role.
That thought had to wait, as he watched the White Guard members stand at attention. The resistance fighter took a good guess that the King or someone representing him was coming in shortly. Benjie quickly grabbed his shirt and button it up, may as well look somewhat decent he thought. Then he stood up on both feet next to the bed and nodded good morning to his pirate comrade while they waited for the approaching entourage to come in.
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Ms.Ezra
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"Guardsmen! Atten-shun!" A loud authoritative voice bellows and the men come around to stand at the foot of their beds, heads and back straight, legs tight together. Benji may or may not have the same reaction, but Anne remains in her bed, with the pillow pressed to her ears. Benji will see the speaker is Captain Korlen, on this occasion out of his plate armor and wearing a dark blue tunic and pants. You would think he was still in the armor by the way he carried himself.
"His Majesty King Richard returned late last night. He has been informed of all we know of the attack, and the threat it has revealed. He has ordered there be no visitations for the day." Korlen comes to Benji and Anne's beds, looking not surprised of Anne's state and he continues speaking as if things are business as usual. "Not even our esteemed guests, as I suggested. He will be making his customary address before the Union Games tomorrow." He turns and says to the pair as well as the rest of the barracks "That is when you will have your audience with King Richard. For now, we Guardsmen will be tightening our patrols, discreetly as possible, and The King has placed his tailors and armorers at your disposal. He assumes you are both in need of new garb." He scrunches his nose. "And I would add, a proper bath as well."
Anne, who has kept her eyes shut but allowed her ears to be free, opens her eyes and while doesn't appear appalled, miffed is the better word for her expression as she smells her collar and says "I don't know what yer talkin' about, I smell right as rain."
"Quite." Korlen says as he does not so much as sigh or change expression. He then bellows "Morning rations!" Which prompts the other guardsmen to start filing down the stairs to the bottom floor and the cafeteria.
"Ah, breakfast!" Anne practically hops out of bed, onto unsteady legs that cause her to reach out and grab hold of Benji by the arm as she feels dizzy and finds her balance again. Korlen actually shakes his head but offers nothing more in response. Anne gets herself right and lets go of Benji, smiling at him "Sorry bout that Benny. Now." She reaches down and puts on her hat, pats Benny on the shoulder "To breakfast!"
Korlen walks down with them to the cafeteria on the main floor, where there is a line of soldiers getting their morning rations. Korlen beckons them to a round table apart from the others, where three plates, bowls, clay cups and silverware(of actual silver) sit waiting. On the plates are three eggs(served over easy), four thick strips of bacon, and shredded hash browns. The bowls are filled with plain water, and the cups with fresh fruit juice that tastes like an apple and an orange, yet was not really either.
"Here you are, enjoy." Korlen says as he sits down and starts on his bacon first of all. While Anne is practically salivating as she sits, her eyes also fixate on the silverware fork, spoon and knife. She can very much smell that they're authentic and well, old habits die hard as she takes them up and come up with a way to make off with them once the delicious meal is over.
"His Majesty King Richard returned late last night. He has been informed of all we know of the attack, and the threat it has revealed. He has ordered there be no visitations for the day." Korlen comes to Benji and Anne's beds, looking not surprised of Anne's state and he continues speaking as if things are business as usual. "Not even our esteemed guests, as I suggested. He will be making his customary address before the Union Games tomorrow." He turns and says to the pair as well as the rest of the barracks "That is when you will have your audience with King Richard. For now, we Guardsmen will be tightening our patrols, discreetly as possible, and The King has placed his tailors and armorers at your disposal. He assumes you are both in need of new garb." He scrunches his nose. "And I would add, a proper bath as well."
Anne, who has kept her eyes shut but allowed her ears to be free, opens her eyes and while doesn't appear appalled, miffed is the better word for her expression as she smells her collar and says "I don't know what yer talkin' about, I smell right as rain."
"Quite." Korlen says as he does not so much as sigh or change expression. He then bellows "Morning rations!" Which prompts the other guardsmen to start filing down the stairs to the bottom floor and the cafeteria.
"Ah, breakfast!" Anne practically hops out of bed, onto unsteady legs that cause her to reach out and grab hold of Benji by the arm as she feels dizzy and finds her balance again. Korlen actually shakes his head but offers nothing more in response. Anne gets herself right and lets go of Benji, smiling at him "Sorry bout that Benny. Now." She reaches down and puts on her hat, pats Benny on the shoulder "To breakfast!"
Korlen walks down with them to the cafeteria on the main floor, where there is a line of soldiers getting their morning rations. Korlen beckons them to a round table apart from the others, where three plates, bowls, clay cups and silverware(of actual silver) sit waiting. On the plates are three eggs(served over easy), four thick strips of bacon, and shredded hash browns. The bowls are filled with plain water, and the cups with fresh fruit juice that tastes like an apple and an orange, yet was not really either.
"Here you are, enjoy." Korlen says as he sits down and starts on his bacon first of all. While Anne is practically salivating as she sits, her eyes also fixate on the silverware fork, spoon and knife. She can very much smell that they're authentic and well, old habits die hard as she takes them up and come up with a way to make off with them once the delicious meal is over.
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At the word attention, Benjie nearly sprang to his feet until remembering this wasn't the military he served under. Instead he sat on the bed, watching and listening to Korlen. In all honesty he had expected the king to appear when the trumpet blaring earlier, but the White Guard officer's explanation made sense. Given what happen security measures were necessary but also he imagine it maybe an issue with Anne given that she been wanting to take her case to him.
So tomorrow huh? Kinda curious about these Union Games, perhaps it is this world's version of the Olympics.
Looking down at his attire Ben had to resist uttering a sigh. He can see the logic in changing clothes, it would help Anne and him not to stand out too much. After all he had learned to switch into various disguises as a guerrilla to fight enemy occupation. Why should this be any different Benjie wondered until Korlen's comment caused him to chuckle a bit. "A bath sounds nice actually. Salamat(Thank you)."
The Filipino stood up and was about to grab for the boots nearby when his pirate comrade grabbed one of his arms to steady herself. "Mag ingat!(Careful)!" Ben exclaimed in surprised irritation but then grasped her hand to make sure they both didn't fall down. Accepting Anne's hasty apology and pat on the shoulder with a simple nod, Benny proceeded to swiftly strap on the boots tightly, another talent he earned over the years.
Later at the cafeteria, Ben smirk a little at the way the soldiers were arranged at the chow. Guess some things stay the same no matter what reality one's lives in, he concluded. Then when he saw the meal at their seperate table, the Commonwealth sergeant was even more pleased than before with a wider grin. Sitting down Ben bowed his head and muttered a quiet prayer of blessing for his meal, while gesturing his right hand with the sign of the cross. Anne would certainly recognize the gesture, given that it is used by followers of the Catholic faith.
Finished Benjie took the silverware next to him and began cutting a piece of an egg and devoured it readily. He didn't know if it was from a chicken or duck but right now the sergeant didn't care as he worked on the next part. Then he stopped when something finally occurred to him and glanced over to Korlen and said.
"So Korlen since we can't see your king yet what else could we do in the meantime? I mean beside getting a wash and new clothes."
Briefly turning to the fiery redhead, Ben can already tell that it was not in her nature to just sit and wait quietly. He could but didn't have the desire for it right now. They both needed something to do to keep their minds occupied. "Also what are these Union games you mentioned?"
So tomorrow huh? Kinda curious about these Union Games, perhaps it is this world's version of the Olympics.
Looking down at his attire Ben had to resist uttering a sigh. He can see the logic in changing clothes, it would help Anne and him not to stand out too much. After all he had learned to switch into various disguises as a guerrilla to fight enemy occupation. Why should this be any different Benjie wondered until Korlen's comment caused him to chuckle a bit. "A bath sounds nice actually. Salamat(Thank you)."
The Filipino stood up and was about to grab for the boots nearby when his pirate comrade grabbed one of his arms to steady herself. "Mag ingat!(Careful)!" Ben exclaimed in surprised irritation but then grasped her hand to make sure they both didn't fall down. Accepting Anne's hasty apology and pat on the shoulder with a simple nod, Benny proceeded to swiftly strap on the boots tightly, another talent he earned over the years.
Later at the cafeteria, Ben smirk a little at the way the soldiers were arranged at the chow. Guess some things stay the same no matter what reality one's lives in, he concluded. Then when he saw the meal at their seperate table, the Commonwealth sergeant was even more pleased than before with a wider grin. Sitting down Ben bowed his head and muttered a quiet prayer of blessing for his meal, while gesturing his right hand with the sign of the cross. Anne would certainly recognize the gesture, given that it is used by followers of the Catholic faith.
Finished Benjie took the silverware next to him and began cutting a piece of an egg and devoured it readily. He didn't know if it was from a chicken or duck but right now the sergeant didn't care as he worked on the next part. Then he stopped when something finally occurred to him and glanced over to Korlen and said.
"So Korlen since we can't see your king yet what else could we do in the meantime? I mean beside getting a wash and new clothes."
Briefly turning to the fiery redhead, Ben can already tell that it was not in her nature to just sit and wait quietly. He could but didn't have the desire for it right now. They both needed something to do to keep their minds occupied. "Also what are these Union games you mentioned?"
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Ms.Ezra
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"I am happy you asked." Korlen says after finishing his bacon first of everything else on the plate. "I was hoping you could work with me on tactics against these weapons Hitler will be bringing to bear, as you seem the most familiar. We can start with our White Guard here, and once we become familiar we train as many of our regular soldiers as possible. Any help you can offer would be invaluable, and I am certain when we come out of this conflict the victors, King Richard will reward you generously." Korlen looks at Benji as he speaks, but his eyes stray to Anne for seconds at a time. "The Union Games are an opportunity for every county in the kingdoms to put their finest athletes forward, and compete with each other in friendly competition. There are other, smaller competitions across the land during our celebration, but they are all considered practice for the Union Games."
Meanwhile Anne is enjoying her breakfast with much gusto. The bacon was the first to go, followed by the eggs and potatoes as she mashed them together. When the pirate stops chewing momentarily to drink the juice, she finds that empty and drinks the bowl of water. "Oi, more of this!" She demands. A young boy in a white tunic and short cropped hair like the older men comes from the kitchen carrying a clay pitcher. He comes to their table and refills their cups with juice dutifully. Anne cannot help but smile and pats the boy on the head as he passes "That's a good lad."
At that moment another young boy comes running into the building and stops before Korlen, saluting before speaking.
"A message from His Majesty King Richard. He does not want to wait for the Union Games, he wishes to address the capitol today, at noon, at York Square. He also wants the Strangers in attendance so he may speak with them after.."
If he were a less disciplined man Korlen might have sighed or even closed his eyes in frustration. Korlen only maintains a neutral expression, and tells the messenger boy "His will shall be done. I will have them among the White Guard."
The messenger boy leaves and Korlen turns back to the other two. "You will be meeting His Majesty much sooner. Let us finish our breakfast, and while you two clean up in the showers I will send your clothes to be laundered, and new garments to wear in the meantime."
Anne has the last bite of her egg-potato mash with a frown. She'd been planning to snatch the silverware. For no more reason than a habit born of necessity. But if her clothes were going to be cleaned then anything she tried to snatch would be found anyway. So Anne licks her utensils clean, finishes her juice, and watches the same boy come to collect everything.
"Follow me." Korlen says and leads the way out of a side door to a smaller wooden building with two doors and no windows. Korlen stands aside "Our wash house. I'm sure you won't need instructions for how things work, so take your time and I'll be returning with new clothes for you both. I cannot promise they will fit proper, but they will be clean."
"Hmm.A house just for washing up? Intersting." Ann enters first. She is quite surprised to find inside it is all rather fine wood, no dirt ground to be seen, lit by the sunlight coming down from windows in the roof, and along the walls what she sees as stalls with some kind of pipe coming down from the ceiling. "Now what's this?" She scratches her head and steps into one of the stalls to stand directly beneath it. Then she sees a lever on the wall with "Water" burned into the wood wall next to it, and turns it.
To her great surprise, warm water comes down from the pipe straight down onto her. She lets out a high squeal of surprise, and then laughs while she removes her clothes and tosses them outside the stall. "Here I was expecting a bucket and a sponge. Much nicer." She says to herself as she showers off the sweat and grime from the previous day's journey.
While Anne and Benji shower in separate sections, a servant pops in quickly to grab their clothes and leave a set of simple brown slacks and tunics but leave their footwear and hats.
Meanwhile Anne is enjoying her breakfast with much gusto. The bacon was the first to go, followed by the eggs and potatoes as she mashed them together. When the pirate stops chewing momentarily to drink the juice, she finds that empty and drinks the bowl of water. "Oi, more of this!" She demands. A young boy in a white tunic and short cropped hair like the older men comes from the kitchen carrying a clay pitcher. He comes to their table and refills their cups with juice dutifully. Anne cannot help but smile and pats the boy on the head as he passes "That's a good lad."
At that moment another young boy comes running into the building and stops before Korlen, saluting before speaking.
"A message from His Majesty King Richard. He does not want to wait for the Union Games, he wishes to address the capitol today, at noon, at York Square. He also wants the Strangers in attendance so he may speak with them after.."
If he were a less disciplined man Korlen might have sighed or even closed his eyes in frustration. Korlen only maintains a neutral expression, and tells the messenger boy "His will shall be done. I will have them among the White Guard."
The messenger boy leaves and Korlen turns back to the other two. "You will be meeting His Majesty much sooner. Let us finish our breakfast, and while you two clean up in the showers I will send your clothes to be laundered, and new garments to wear in the meantime."
Anne has the last bite of her egg-potato mash with a frown. She'd been planning to snatch the silverware. For no more reason than a habit born of necessity. But if her clothes were going to be cleaned then anything she tried to snatch would be found anyway. So Anne licks her utensils clean, finishes her juice, and watches the same boy come to collect everything.
"Follow me." Korlen says and leads the way out of a side door to a smaller wooden building with two doors and no windows. Korlen stands aside "Our wash house. I'm sure you won't need instructions for how things work, so take your time and I'll be returning with new clothes for you both. I cannot promise they will fit proper, but they will be clean."
"Hmm.A house just for washing up? Intersting." Ann enters first. She is quite surprised to find inside it is all rather fine wood, no dirt ground to be seen, lit by the sunlight coming down from windows in the roof, and along the walls what she sees as stalls with some kind of pipe coming down from the ceiling. "Now what's this?" She scratches her head and steps into one of the stalls to stand directly beneath it. Then she sees a lever on the wall with "Water" burned into the wood wall next to it, and turns it.
To her great surprise, warm water comes down from the pipe straight down onto her. She lets out a high squeal of surprise, and then laughs while she removes her clothes and tosses them outside the stall. "Here I was expecting a bucket and a sponge. Much nicer." She says to herself as she showers off the sweat and grime from the previous day's journey.
While Anne and Benji shower in separate sections, a servant pops in quickly to grab their clothes and leave a set of simple brown slacks and tunics but leave their footwear and hats.
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At Korlen's explanation it totally made sense in Ben's point of view. Given their common enemy's level of weaponry the kingdom's forces will need in instructions. When their host proclaimed his certainly of their victory, Definlo resisted the urge to sigh. He admired the man's confidence but bitter experience had taught him about the vainity of being a prophet in wars. He ate more of his food to avoid expressing the sentiment for the time being.
Then the commander went into details about the Union games. Sounds extravagant the war veteran thought. Inwardly Ben wondered if they will have archery contests like in that Robin Hood movie.
I bet there will be jousting involved. Dammit! Hitler's men could very well attack during these games. The king and his court will likely be present, making them all vital targets. C'mon Ben just focus on enjoying breakfast for now.
The sergeant drank down the juice and water then finsined the last of eggs on his plate with vigor. Mother always said he had two stomachs, as a child. He nodded thanks at the server boy when the juice cup was filled. Before Ben could enjoy it another youth arrived with a message. Listening with an attentive ear Benjie was actually pleased. It appears the king has common sense after all. When Korlen told to finish up and go for the wash, Ben did not need to be told twice. As soon as Anne was done, they followed the White Guard officer to the wash house.
Pleasant surprise surfaced on Ben's at the reveal it was showers. Sure he could've settle for a water bucket but this worked just fine. He step into inside the other wash house, began stripping and heard Anne's yelp and then laugher next door. Grinning with amusement Ben stepped into the stall and pulled the lever with warm water flooding upon him. Letting out a loud grunt of satisfaction, Ben went to work, cleaning himself.
In a few minutes the Filipino was out and noticed the new attire and shrugged, grateful that he was able to keep his hat and boots. Pulling on the tunic and slacks felt weird but Ben managed it and came out, feeling a great deal better.
Then the commander went into details about the Union games. Sounds extravagant the war veteran thought. Inwardly Ben wondered if they will have archery contests like in that Robin Hood movie.
I bet there will be jousting involved. Dammit! Hitler's men could very well attack during these games. The king and his court will likely be present, making them all vital targets. C'mon Ben just focus on enjoying breakfast for now.
The sergeant drank down the juice and water then finsined the last of eggs on his plate with vigor. Mother always said he had two stomachs, as a child. He nodded thanks at the server boy when the juice cup was filled. Before Ben could enjoy it another youth arrived with a message. Listening with an attentive ear Benjie was actually pleased. It appears the king has common sense after all. When Korlen told to finish up and go for the wash, Ben did not need to be told twice. As soon as Anne was done, they followed the White Guard officer to the wash house.
Pleasant surprise surfaced on Ben's at the reveal it was showers. Sure he could've settle for a water bucket but this worked just fine. He step into inside the other wash house, began stripping and heard Anne's yelp and then laugher next door. Grinning with amusement Ben stepped into the stall and pulled the lever with warm water flooding upon him. Letting out a loud grunt of satisfaction, Ben went to work, cleaning himself.
In a few minutes the Filipino was out and noticed the new attire and shrugged, grateful that he was able to keep his hat and boots. Pulling on the tunic and slacks felt weird but Ben managed it and came out, feeling a great deal better.
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Ms.Ezra
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Being from an era where a bathtub was the most comfortable way one got themselves clean, the concept of a shower was a foreign and now a very welcome thing for Anne. It reminds her of when her crew had been lucky enough to find refuge on an island with a waterfall, and used that to wash up for a day or two. Not quite as majestic an experience, but Anne still enjoys herself and lingers under the water a little while longer before she comes back out dressed in the clothing provided, putting on her hat as she approaches.
"My my my what a lovely place! Treat me too well, you might be stuck with me." Anne winks at Korlen.
The man offers no reaction to the woman and proceeds to tell the pair. "While you were showering, I was briefed on the details of His Highness King Richard's speech, and we will be among the crowd to meet him afterwards. However we will be arriving earlier to establish a defensive perimeter, and that is where you will be useful." Korlen says the last part looking aside at Benji. "We humbly request your assistance in determining the prime vantage points from which any assassins with more advanced weaponry could target the Royal Family."
Anne looks at Korlen with a grimace, and says quietly aside to Benji "Careful, I think he's taken a liking to you. You know what they say about a man who can resist a woman like that." Korlen hears this with no issue, and does not dignify her with any kind of response. He remains stalwart, awaiting a response from Benji.
"My my my what a lovely place! Treat me too well, you might be stuck with me." Anne winks at Korlen.
The man offers no reaction to the woman and proceeds to tell the pair. "While you were showering, I was briefed on the details of His Highness King Richard's speech, and we will be among the crowd to meet him afterwards. However we will be arriving earlier to establish a defensive perimeter, and that is where you will be useful." Korlen says the last part looking aside at Benji. "We humbly request your assistance in determining the prime vantage points from which any assassins with more advanced weaponry could target the Royal Family."
Anne looks at Korlen with a grimace, and says quietly aside to Benji "Careful, I think he's taken a liking to you. You know what they say about a man who can resist a woman like that." Korlen hears this with no issue, and does not dignify her with any kind of response. He remains stalwart, awaiting a response from Benji.
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Considering how medieval this world appeared Ben had not been expecting anything as modern as a shower to exist yet. They likely learn to make em from another stranger. The Filipino mused, preparing himself. Coming from a humble fishing family Benjie didn't grew up with showers but he did regularly bathe, either by streams or the rare bathtub. The veteran chuckled, remembering the first time getting a shower was while living in Manila with Madelyn...
Seeing Anne exit out with new clothes of her own Ben stopped his trip down memory lane. Korlen was already waiting for them and Anne being herself flirted away praise at their keeper with any barely reaction."Wala kang pagpigil sa kaibigan ko."Benjie muttered with amusement in Tagalog. Quickly Korlen gave them both the latest details on what's going on or will happen.
Made perfect sense. The locals would require someone with knowledge about modern firearms from Earth to help with security. Ben didn't feel like that the request could be refused given the situation, not that he wanted to. Personally I'm getting sick and tire of those sons of bitches coming at us. Would be nice to strike back for a change.
All in good time Benjie decided silently before Anne decided add her two cent about Korlen. The survivor of Bataan struggled to keep a straight face. Anne would've never made in the military was his opinion. Then he answered with a nod then said. "Of course I can help with that. Ready when you are Korlen."
Seeing Anne exit out with new clothes of her own Ben stopped his trip down memory lane. Korlen was already waiting for them and Anne being herself flirted away praise at their keeper with any barely reaction."Wala kang pagpigil sa kaibigan ko."Benjie muttered with amusement in Tagalog. Quickly Korlen gave them both the latest details on what's going on or will happen.
Made perfect sense. The locals would require someone with knowledge about modern firearms from Earth to help with security. Ben didn't feel like that the request could be refused given the situation, not that he wanted to. Personally I'm getting sick and tire of those sons of bitches coming at us. Would be nice to strike back for a change.
All in good time Benjie decided silently before Anne decided add her two cent about Korlen. The survivor of Bataan struggled to keep a straight face. Anne would've never made in the military was his opinion. Then he answered with a nod then said. "Of course I can help with that. Ready when you are Korlen."
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Ms.Ezra
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Korlen nods his understanding of Benji's frustration. "We feel much the same. We have all eyes and ears available to us and Red Shield searching for any sign of where the enemy has made camp. Should they show today, we must capture as many as possible." He raises his right hand and makes a fist. "Then, we press them for all they know, and bring a swift end to their uprising." He says with just a hint of excitement to his voice. His expression even changes; eyes go a little wider, and the corners of his lips curl into the slightest of smiles. This expression falls with his fist, and he is again neutral. Anne raises a brow and looks beside her at Benji again, silently inquiring if he's noted this as well.
"On behalf of the White Guard, we thank you." Korien replies and motions the pair to follow before he starts to walk away. He leads them away from the barracks, talking as he does. "We will be leaving promptly. Your belongings have been placed in the wagon, and Red Shield will be bringing yours that were left at their hall, Anne."
"Ah, good. Would like my cutlass and pistol if those rats show again." Anne replies cracking her knuckles then says "Where can I get some rum? Or liquor? Can't be ready without a couple strong drinks in me."
"I doubt being drunk will help you fight." Korlen says, dismissively.
"Ya see Korlen, I was a big drinker back in our world. Gives ya courage! But since I been here, the drink's made me feel not just brave, but stronger." Anne rolls up her right sleeve and flexes her thin but toned arm. "Now I don't look like much, but with some of the hard stuff I noticed I can punch the ground and make it shake, crack a man's skull with mine, and run like the devil. I don't feel it now, so I can only guess it's cause all I got in me is a good breakfast and whatever that juice was."
"Hmm. Interesting." Korlen rubs his chin as he walks. "One of those powers Strangers have when they cross over then. Very well. There is a tavern near the plaza you may use to strengthen yourself. I will personally provide you with gold to do so when we arrive."
Anne licks her lips at the promise of being basically paid to drink when they arrive. "Burden's on me to not drink too much then. Not missin' another skirmish cause I blacked out again."
"And you? Will you need anything else?" Korlen asks Benji just before they pass the castle gates and come to a waiting horse-drawn wagon. Anne hops into the wagon in the meantime and stands atop it to look up at the castle. Their belongings(minus their clothes still being laundered) sit in the wagon as well. Anne takes her pistols out of the canvas US Army bag and checks them, reloads one with shot and ball. She looks at her pistols, and thinks aloud "I like yer guns Benny. Quick, powerful." She blows a raspberry at her flintlock "Too bad they don have more ammo fer ya. An I'm runnin' low on powder."
"On behalf of the White Guard, we thank you." Korien replies and motions the pair to follow before he starts to walk away. He leads them away from the barracks, talking as he does. "We will be leaving promptly. Your belongings have been placed in the wagon, and Red Shield will be bringing yours that were left at their hall, Anne."
"Ah, good. Would like my cutlass and pistol if those rats show again." Anne replies cracking her knuckles then says "Where can I get some rum? Or liquor? Can't be ready without a couple strong drinks in me."
"I doubt being drunk will help you fight." Korlen says, dismissively.
"Ya see Korlen, I was a big drinker back in our world. Gives ya courage! But since I been here, the drink's made me feel not just brave, but stronger." Anne rolls up her right sleeve and flexes her thin but toned arm. "Now I don't look like much, but with some of the hard stuff I noticed I can punch the ground and make it shake, crack a man's skull with mine, and run like the devil. I don't feel it now, so I can only guess it's cause all I got in me is a good breakfast and whatever that juice was."
"Hmm. Interesting." Korlen rubs his chin as he walks. "One of those powers Strangers have when they cross over then. Very well. There is a tavern near the plaza you may use to strengthen yourself. I will personally provide you with gold to do so when we arrive."
Anne licks her lips at the promise of being basically paid to drink when they arrive. "Burden's on me to not drink too much then. Not missin' another skirmish cause I blacked out again."
"And you? Will you need anything else?" Korlen asks Benji just before they pass the castle gates and come to a waiting horse-drawn wagon. Anne hops into the wagon in the meantime and stands atop it to look up at the castle. Their belongings(minus their clothes still being laundered) sit in the wagon as well. Anne takes her pistols out of the canvas US Army bag and checks them, reloads one with shot and ball. She looks at her pistols, and thinks aloud "I like yer guns Benny. Quick, powerful." She blows a raspberry at her flintlock "Too bad they don have more ammo fer ya. An I'm runnin' low on powder."
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Indeed, Benjie noticed how Korlen's strange behavior brief as it is. The Filipino insurgent glanced toward to Anne, letting her know he noted it too. During his previous war Segreant Defilino had known seemly calm people turn wholly different even monstrous when in power or combat. Within the same confines of his mind he thought. Maybe Hitler and his bunch aren't the only ones we will need to watch out for.
When told their belongings were Ben beamed and stayed quiet through the rest of conversation. When the White Guard commander queried him if there was anything else, he shook his head no. Heading toward the wagon Benjie sat down and checked his stuff, making sure nothing was stolen. Satisfied the sergeant heard Anne Bonny's comment about their firearms and dwindling ammunition.
"I'll make due in the meantime. If lucky we can loot dead enemies for new weapons assuming they're not destroyed or taken by our hosts. Beside I still have this." To empathize Ben displayed his sharp bolo blade for his pirate friend to see and explained.
"You see Anne, on my islands this is essentially a tool, often used to chop jungle vegetation and harvest crops. During war my people who did not have enough fire arms to fight our oppressors, often times resorted to bolos. You can easily gut and hack a man to death with these blades, especially when they less suspect it, whether they're sleeping or taking a piss. We then take their own guns for ourselves."
Anne would see in Ben's eyes that this fact was earned from personal experience. Done with the demonstration, the Filipino sheathed the large knife and brought out his lucky strike pack and lighter. Placing a white cigarette into his mouth Benjie lit it with a small fire at the flip of a switch. Blowing a small trail of smoke from the nose Ben sat still, trying to relax. Looking back at the redhead, he then remarked.
"As a little boy I read some stories about pirates like you, Blackbeard, and Ching Shih. Never thought I be in the company of a legend Anne. Life can be so bizarre."
When told their belongings were Ben beamed and stayed quiet through the rest of conversation. When the White Guard commander queried him if there was anything else, he shook his head no. Heading toward the wagon Benjie sat down and checked his stuff, making sure nothing was stolen. Satisfied the sergeant heard Anne Bonny's comment about their firearms and dwindling ammunition.
"I'll make due in the meantime. If lucky we can loot dead enemies for new weapons assuming they're not destroyed or taken by our hosts. Beside I still have this." To empathize Ben displayed his sharp bolo blade for his pirate friend to see and explained.
"You see Anne, on my islands this is essentially a tool, often used to chop jungle vegetation and harvest crops. During war my people who did not have enough fire arms to fight our oppressors, often times resorted to bolos. You can easily gut and hack a man to death with these blades, especially when they less suspect it, whether they're sleeping or taking a piss. We then take their own guns for ourselves."
Anne would see in Ben's eyes that this fact was earned from personal experience. Done with the demonstration, the Filipino sheathed the large knife and brought out his lucky strike pack and lighter. Placing a white cigarette into his mouth Benjie lit it with a small fire at the flip of a switch. Blowing a small trail of smoke from the nose Ben sat still, trying to relax. Looking back at the redhead, he then remarked.
"As a little boy I read some stories about pirates like you, Blackbeard, and Ching Shih. Never thought I be in the company of a legend Anne. Life can be so bizarre."
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Ms.Ezra
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Anne listens to the soldier describe, with what sounds to her like due revelance, the utility of his bolo knife and how he was well prepared for the eventuality that they would run out of the ammo for their respective firearms. There is a clear excited smile on her face by the time he finishes. The pirate is quite flattered by how he talks of her, and smirks. "A legend, am I? Thas good to hear, though I would have loved to be known by Captain Anne rather than by the name of that...useless man I married when too young to know better." She says with clear contempt. She picks up her cutlass and unsheathes it to inspect it.
"Yer knife is a nice one, I will give ya that. But I prefer a real sword. I took this one off a navy officer. Can't rightly recall if it were a Brit or a Frenchman, but it was pulled outta its original scabbard and used to kill 'em in either case. I was damn good with it before I came here. I can really do same damage now with more strength behind every strike." Anne sheathes her sword, and looks down to see Yuzuki's sword. Her eyes fall somewhat as she picks it up and unsheathes it to look at the blade. This one was leagues above either of their blades.
"Yuzuki had this at my belly minutes after we met. Coulda gutted me, but I had my pistol on her and Albert as well." She looks from the sword to Benji, shrugs. "Helluva way to start off."
While the pair have been talking Korlen has also come into the wagon and told the driver to get going through York to the plaza. Along the way they see that like many cities that enjoy a night of mass celebration, the morning after said city has a collective hangover. The streets are clear except for men going around to extinguish the fires of lamposts and a few men and women on their way to their jobs.
"Yer knife is a nice one, I will give ya that. But I prefer a real sword. I took this one off a navy officer. Can't rightly recall if it were a Brit or a Frenchman, but it was pulled outta its original scabbard and used to kill 'em in either case. I was damn good with it before I came here. I can really do same damage now with more strength behind every strike." Anne sheathes her sword, and looks down to see Yuzuki's sword. Her eyes fall somewhat as she picks it up and unsheathes it to look at the blade. This one was leagues above either of their blades.
"Yuzuki had this at my belly minutes after we met. Coulda gutted me, but I had my pistol on her and Albert as well." She looks from the sword to Benji, shrugs. "Helluva way to start off."
While the pair have been talking Korlen has also come into the wagon and told the driver to get going through York to the plaza. Along the way they see that like many cities that enjoy a night of mass celebration, the morning after said city has a collective hangover. The streets are clear except for men going around to extinguish the fires of lamposts and a few men and women on their way to their jobs.
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Need to remind myself to never call Anne by her last name. Thought Ben, recognizing the distaste coming from the Irish woman as she briefly referred her former spouse. He looked on while the pirate explained her preference for the cutless sword and told the story of how she took it. Considering who Anne is exactly and her newfound strength, the guerrilla didn't doubt her boast. Still smoking the Filipino sergeant watched his comrade examined the Japanese katana and then spoke about its former owner and how she met her and Al.
Benjie said nothing in response to the story, but his body did tense up in reaction. Privately he wished Al had died in that mentioned encounter. Choosing not to dwell further on the turncoat, Ben instead looked around at the aftermath of last night's celebrations. Judging by how Korlen explained there were a few more days of holiday to come.
Snatching the cigarette out of his mouth with the left hand, he then commented to all present in the wagon. "This reminds me of the aftermath of a fiesta back home." Instantly grasping the fact his audience likely wouldn't know the word fiesta means Ben quickly added. "Basically means a party. It's a little word my countrymen adopted from the Spaniards when they ruled over our islands."
Instead of going into another history lesson Ben decided to change the topic, looking at Anne, he then asked. "So Anne, who are these cat people you mentioned yesterday? They sound very dear to you judging by your description."
Benjie said nothing in response to the story, but his body did tense up in reaction. Privately he wished Al had died in that mentioned encounter. Choosing not to dwell further on the turncoat, Ben instead looked around at the aftermath of last night's celebrations. Judging by how Korlen explained there were a few more days of holiday to come.
Snatching the cigarette out of his mouth with the left hand, he then commented to all present in the wagon. "This reminds me of the aftermath of a fiesta back home." Instantly grasping the fact his audience likely wouldn't know the word fiesta means Ben quickly added. "Basically means a party. It's a little word my countrymen adopted from the Spaniards when they ruled over our islands."
Instead of going into another history lesson Ben decided to change the topic, looking at Anne, he then asked. "So Anne, who are these cat people you mentioned yesterday? They sound very dear to you judging by your description."
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Ms.Ezra
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Yes, for all those years of The War there was no cause for celebration. You might say we are making up for all the lost mirth." Korlen says, ironically with no mirth in his voice at all.
Anne notes that Benji says his people were once ruled over by the Spaniards, and it occurs to her she doesn't recall asking where on their world he had originated. Questions for later as Anne smiles in response to him asking about the cat people.
"Ah, the Barbin." Anne starts and puts her fingers up on her head to mimic ears "They're like us, 'cept they got cat ears, tails, fur. Adorable children, and they act wild and tough to outsiders. They call me Mother Anne." She chuckles and clicks her tongue "Not Captain, but I like it all the same. They treat me better than most humans, and I'll be goin' back to them after all this."
Korlen scoffs audibly. Anne glares at the back of his head "And what's wrong with that?"
The man clears his throat. "Nothing Anne. I simply don't understand how one can live in wilderness like the Barbin do."
Anne rolls her eyes and looks at Benji, nodding her head at Korlen "That also sound like a born city dweller to you?"
Anne notes that Benji says his people were once ruled over by the Spaniards, and it occurs to her she doesn't recall asking where on their world he had originated. Questions for later as Anne smiles in response to him asking about the cat people.
"Ah, the Barbin." Anne starts and puts her fingers up on her head to mimic ears "They're like us, 'cept they got cat ears, tails, fur. Adorable children, and they act wild and tough to outsiders. They call me Mother Anne." She chuckles and clicks her tongue "Not Captain, but I like it all the same. They treat me better than most humans, and I'll be goin' back to them after all this."
Korlen scoffs audibly. Anne glares at the back of his head "And what's wrong with that?"
The man clears his throat. "Nothing Anne. I simply don't understand how one can live in wilderness like the Barbin do."
Anne rolls her eyes and looks at Benji, nodding her head at Korlen "That also sound like a born city dweller to you?"
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Strange to think that a sea faring brigand would form such a bond.Then again this whole situation can be hardly called ordinary either. Benjie reminded himself in private amusement. The Barbin sounded like an interesting bunch, who just wanted to live simple lives and it seemed they provided Anne a new meaning to life. Being an outlaw sounds very romantic but Ben had plenty of experience with bandits to know the reality can be a harsh existence.
He sincerely prayed the Irish woman didn't lose this new family of hers. Just then Korlen interrupted with a sigh, who was quick to express his negative opinion of the Barbins' lifestyle. The Filipino had to suppress a sigh of his. He had a feeling that Anne and their hosts won't stay on friendly terms. Pirates and authority figures don't mix well. Anne, who was obviously offended then asked Ben for his opinion.
Shrugging both shoulders, he answered. "To be fair Anne the wilderness is not for everyone. I grew up in a small fishing village on the coast. Life was simple there but good. Of course I got restless later on and moved to the capital called Manila. Heh even then it wasn't enough for me, and so I enlisted.
Me and some of other survivors were forced to take refuge within the jungle to keep on fighting even after our army was destroyed in a matter of months by Hitler's allies."
He stayed soberly silent after that, smoking more of the cigarette. Memories long buried resurfaced in the back of his mind. "Trust me both of your styles of living here are much bettter compared to living constantly on the run, besieged by man and nature alike."
He sincerely prayed the Irish woman didn't lose this new family of hers. Just then Korlen interrupted with a sigh, who was quick to express his negative opinion of the Barbins' lifestyle. The Filipino had to suppress a sigh of his. He had a feeling that Anne and their hosts won't stay on friendly terms. Pirates and authority figures don't mix well. Anne, who was obviously offended then asked Ben for his opinion.
Shrugging both shoulders, he answered. "To be fair Anne the wilderness is not for everyone. I grew up in a small fishing village on the coast. Life was simple there but good. Of course I got restless later on and moved to the capital called Manila. Heh even then it wasn't enough for me, and so I enlisted.
Me and some of other survivors were forced to take refuge within the jungle to keep on fighting even after our army was destroyed in a matter of months by Hitler's allies."
He stayed soberly silent after that, smoking more of the cigarette. Memories long buried resurfaced in the back of his mind. "Trust me both of your styles of living here are much bettter compared to living constantly on the run, besieged by man and nature alike."
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