Battle at Valkyrja

Eyes High

Continued from: RPG: The Quarters of Spiff and Eyes High.

As I said, this was not the first time I had thought of the battle at Valkyrja and it probably would not be the last.

Spiff was away on one of his missions and didn’t even know I was gone. We had been married just a little over a year at the time, about fourteen months according to Old Earth calendar, He was fast building his rep with the Space Rangers, I think he had been with them about 3 or 4 years at this time and I was quite proud of him. We were still learning about each other then (or at least I was learning more about him) and I was more than happy to encourage him in his new career choice.

Well, it was suppose to be a quick ‘routine’ response to an automated distress signal. The Colonial Scurriour Forces had agreed to send in some scouts to gather information since they were closer, while we gathered our forces and equipment. We knew we would be flying in blind since the signal had been terminated in mid transmission, but we felt no undue dread. We packed extra weaponry, power charges and even a couple dozen crossbows with projectiles.

One never could be too prepared after all. And hopefully the scouts would have the necessary information by the time we arrived. I probably would be back before Spiff even returned. No need to concern him with notification right now. Especially since I haven’t exactly told him about my career as of yet. I did not know at that time that I would find myself married 15 and still having not told my husband about my involvement in the Corps.

Well like I said, it was suppose to be a quick routine aid campaign. It turned out to be anything but that.
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"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Eyes High

We landed three clicks out form the origin point of the distress call. We could see the columns of black, gray, and white smoke rising over the city, all mixing in the lower atmosphere making their own cloud front.

Two scouts were there to give the routine reports and lead us in. It would turn out to be the only thing ‘routine’ about this mission. I don’t even recall their names, I’m ashamed to say. But as one of the sergeants present, I was privy to the report. I stood there with the other sergeants beside the officers and listened as the scouts gave their combined reports.

The Gunnarians had landed without warning and attacked the main capital. The citizens there managed to begin transmission before the tower was hit. That is why we received only half. The few survivors who managed to escape the capital held up in the caves nearby; however, none were able to warn the two nearest villages. The enemy annihilated both before the scouts even arrived. This was a plan of extermination not subjugation. We knew then that we would need reinforcement if we had any chance of saving the Valkyrians.

Our commanding officer requested the scouts continued assistance. Since technically we were two different organizations, we could not order them to do so; however, the senior scout reporting to us assured us that his commander had already decided on that course of action. We radioed for backup and leaving the barest number behind to man the field base, we loaded up and follow the two scouts into the latest version of Hades.
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"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Eyes High

That night had been something else. We took turns doing watch duty. Maybe getting two hours of sleep at a time. I watched the sun come up on this strange, yet beautiful planet. We had not had any confrontation with the enemy since before dusk. Which led me to wonder why they had not taken advantage of the night to attack our camp?

In the growing light of the new morning I looked around at our camp. Our group was mixed as usual. We normally had new recruits as well as seasoned veterans but this group seemed to be out of balance. I don’t know if it was just my imagination or what, but we seemed to have more greenhorns than usual. I wonder what was up with that? It made me uneasy. And I don’t like being uneasy in a battle. I knew from early on that I would not be fighting along side the same people each time, but still, to see so many new faces, especially when the enemy had turned out to be so strong, was disconcerting. There had to be something I could do. Some way to make this fight more even, or maybe even turn it more in our favor. Someway to make sure that most of these kids went back home. Give them a chance to live to fight another battle. But what?

Then it hit me, I knew exactly what I could do.

About an hour later I found myself crawling on my belly up the western side of a sandy ridge. The area that we were now in was about five clicks out from our landing site. My best description of it would have been ‘desert like.’ Though there was vegetation around, it was low and sparse. The heat was not unbearable and I could sense moisture in the air, but the ground was a mixture of sand and rocks. Large boulders were strewn across the landscape and about twenty clicks to the southwest of my location laid a low mountain range. If we could draw the enemy there and hold the high ground we might be able to put an end to this living nightmare a little quicker.
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"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Eyes High

I had separated myself from my unit to try to do some scouting of my own. To find the best path of attack, to lead my troops safely forward, or as least as safely as possible. I knew danger was part of this life, but still…I wanted to get as many of my troops through this as safely as possible and still defeat the enemy.

Finally I reached the crest and cleared a small area of sand through which I could look without having to actual peer over the top of the ridge. No need to give the enemy a better shot than necessary.

I laid my H.Y.E.R., or High Yield Energy Rifle, down in front of me with the muzzle barely passing the crest of the ridge. I reached behind me with my now freed right hand and retrieved my ocs. Looking through the highly magnified lenses I scanned the area past the ridge looking for any signs of enemy movements as well as anything that would benefit us. It would seem that I had lucked up and chosen the highest ridge in the vicinity.

I was able to see the low lying area that stretch out before me for at least 15 clicks. My troops would be sitting ducks out there and unfortunately I was blind to what maybe directly on the other side of this ridge. We would have to find another way.

I replaced my ocs and grabbed my H.Y.E.R. I must see what was on the other side of this over inflated sand dune. With my left hand I retrieved the small package tucked into my left rear vest pocket. Carefully and as quietly as possible I unclasped the folded mirror and hooked it onto the special clip located near the end of my rifle. Slowly I extended the mirror through the cleared sand and past the ridge. Almost like the periscopes of old, I used the reflective surface to peer at the down sloping side. I paused when I saw movement, held my breath, and clasped my rifle more securely. Luckily it turned out to be nothing but a ground lizard so I breathed a silent sigh of relief. I did another quicker scan of the down slop before retrieving my riffle. Well at least nothing was hiding on the other side. I unhooked the mirror, refolded it, and placed back into its assigned pocket.

I rolled onto my back, the equipment pack dug into my back but I did not care. My thoughts were on my comrades. How many had we already lost? And I couldn’t even be sure if we’d made a dent in the enemy’s numbers. That was the only thing that I really didn’t like about this life I had chosen. The feeling that I would get sometimes. The feeling that I was not making a difference. ‘Get your head back in the mission Eyes.’ I silently told myself.

I looked up at the blue-green sky and sighed. I knew I had violated established regulations by going out on my own, but if I had found a safer passage I would have gladly accepted what ever newest reprimand they would give me. Oh well, maybe next time. I don’t even know why I had accepted that last promotion. I didn’t like to lead. I rather be the one taking the risk, not sending some greenhorn out. Well if they took this promotion from me it wouldn’t be the first one and probably wouldn’t be last one either. Plus I also knew they would wait until after this conflict to do anything so no need to waist time wondering what my punishment would be this time. Time to get back to my unit.

I made my way back down the slope and ran in a crouch back to this low outcropping I noticed on my way in. I had not gone far from my unit and was more than halfway back when it happened.
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"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Eyes High

“Snap” I heard, off to my right just above me from the top of a large boulder, a twig breaking of all things.

“Oh Frandangart!” I muttered beneath my breath. I whirled around, went to my knees, and raised my rifle almost simultaneously. Yet I was not fast enough.

The breath whooshed from my body as two large objects hit me on my chest just below each of my shoulders, sending me backwards into the rocky ground. My crossbow somehow unclipped from its strap and went sliding more than five feet from me. The projectiles went flying from their sheath spreading out behind me in a bizarre resemblance of the antique connect-the-dots patterns.

By some miracle I had managed to maintain the double hold on my rifle. My right hand tightly around the stock’s grip and my left around the barrel. By the grace of God, this miracle is what was keeping me alive at this moment. Instead of the Gunnarian I had expected when I had heard the snapping of a twig, I was staring into the snarling jaws of a saber.

Of all the ironic happenings! All of the battles I’ve been in. All the times I’ve been shot at. Hit. And even stabbed. I was going to meet my end at the jaws of a blasted saber. And I never told Spiff.

This last thought added strength to my struggles. He could not find out this way. But dang! This beast was huge.

If I could just bend my knees somehow I might could muster enough leverage and force to either fling the crazed animal away from me or flip him over. Either option had the possibility of allowing me the slightest chance to gain an advantage so I could either flee or end this attack. However, for the time being, both options were out of reach because my legs were pinned by this beast and I could not bend my knees.

My mind began to race, looking for other opportunities. My body armor was protecting me form the beast’s claws for now and my rifle (for the time being) was keeping its teeth from my exposed face. He could not get a purchase on me but I dared not attempt to reposition my hands in order to get a better grip on my weapon. Of all the blasted ways to go.

NO! I could not allow my mind to travel that path. There had to be a way.

As I laid there wrestling with the beast, I thought I heard the faint fall of a footstep. How I heard it over the snarls of the beast I do not know. What I do know is all I could think of at that time was: ‘Oh great! Now what?!’
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"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Eyes High

Here I lay on my back, fighting for my life with a saber of all things and now an enemy scout comes up behind me. And a scout it must be with the softness of the footstep. Rarely ever does the routine soldier walk so light. The only questions now were: Would he kill me outright? Go on about his business and leave me to the beast? Sit and watch the show? Or kill us both? I doubted that capture would be a possibility. From the evidence I’d seen so far they did not take prisoners. And even if he thought to gain information, he would soon learn that I would not be of any assistance. So either way, it looked like my luck was about to run out.

It frustrated me that I could not turn my head in order to see the new threat. But the beast had become so intent on me that I feared any lax on my part might provide it with the opening it would need. I admit I was surprised that the saber had not noticed our newly arrived spectator. It must be crazed. Most animals were better aware of their surroundings. I wanted to shout at the scout but I did not know the language yet and I had damaged my translator earlier in the day.

“Uggggg!” I growled in frustration.

My arms were growing tired, my back and legs were hurting, and this bloody beast had managed to scratch my face with one of its paws. I could feel the slow trickle of blood from the three lines make its way down my cheek. Even though I had heard no more footsteps, I estimated the scout should be near enough to see and hear me by now.

Although I knew my words would be useless and senseless, unless the scout had a translator, or knew my language, and had a sense of fair play, I wanted to holler out. My frustration level had reached its boiling point. I was mad with myself for getting into this situation but glad that I had not sent some private out here. Also, I did not like having someone behind me whom I could not see. So despite the futility of it, I gave into my want and screamed:

“Why don’t you give me a fair shot at you?! Drive this blasted beast away and face me man to man!”

What happened next was the last thing I had expected.
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"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Mahnmut

Kohana's ( AKA Mahnmut) Entrance and backstory

It started with an automated distress call. How it would end, at this point, was anybody's guess. I'd been sent to this arid planet with a unit of the C. S. F. (Colonial Scurrior Forces) to try and find out what in Hades was going on. It was a hurried deployment for both the scout, and special forces.Our scout unit couldn't have been on the planet for more than a few hours before the S.F. landed, and now...here I was separated from my right hand man, Fergus; trying to find the front lines of the good guys.

We'd been dropped in one of the larger cites here on...Hmmm... it was such a quick briefing I was having trouble remembering the planets name. Valkyrja?... Yes that was it... Valkyrja. Anyway, as I was saying. We were dropped in one of the larger cities to contact someone, anyone, of the noble ruling class; to find out what was happening. It was evident from the get-go we wouldn't find anyone in that city.Ten minutes on the ground and reports were coming in from other units on my H.U.D. comm, of nothing but burning ruble.Our commander ordered all units to split into groups of two and follow any signs of fleeing refugess.

I signaled for Gerski and Timmons to head Southeast, while Fergus and I went Northeast. Staying off the dangerous main roads was troublesome but necessary, as we wound our way through the ruble and small fires the going was slow, but we soon found ourselves on the outskirts of the city. Trouble was we also found a small detachment of Gunnarians. The only thing I knew about them at the time was; they... be the enemy. The only way to avoid them was to go around them with as wide a berth as we could. I signaled to Fergus to follow me and was immediately pulled to a squatting position by him.

"Sir, he began, I don't mean to question your authority but..." "That's ok Ferg, I replied quickly, you know I value your instincts as highly as my own. Please continue." "Well sir, I did some studying on the little information we had on these Gunnarians, and they do have advanced electronic detection, jamming, and tracking capabilities.' "Go on I said." "Yes sir. I suggest we turn off all electronics they could detect, and split up. We'll have a better chance getting around them if we do." I massaged my chin with my right hand as I thought this over. Finally I said; "Okay Ferg, sounds like a good idea. As soon as we feel its safe, turn your comm. unit back on, and we'll meet up on the other side. " "Copy that sir." "Oh... and Ferg.' "Yes sir." "Anything goes wrong on your end, don't hesitate to chirp me." "Ditto sir." He said as he quietly stole off to our right.

That was the last I'd seen or heard from him in a days walk, trot, and run. I'd also heard nothing to indicate he'd gotten into a firefight, so I wasn't too worried. Could be as simple as his comm. unit was not functioning. Fergus was capable of taking on a small group of enemy combatants all on his own.

As I said I'd been on the move for a day, and in need of rest and nourishment. I'd spotted a low sandy ridge about half a click North of my position, and decided to make camp. Not camp in the normal sense, but at least I could hollow out a depression on one side of the ridge, and thus, avoid being seen throughout the evening. As I approached the ridge I did a quick scan of the surrounding area. All clear. I hollowed out an egg shaped depression on the South side of the sandy ridge, and settled in for a dinner of C-rations and water; followed by a much needed night of sleep. As the cyan skies of Valkyrja turned toward twilight, so my eyes closed to dreams.

I woke before daybreak well rested, full of vim and vigor for the coming day. I did a quick scan of the area, and all was clear. I ate two power-b-bars, and downed a few sips of water. I had enough water and rations for two more days, but was hoping to come across some colonial forces before long. I did some stretching to shake off the evening cob webs, checked my JCP pistol, slung my Sig-Tac over my shoulder and continued Northeast.

I'd been walking at a leisurely pace for approximately ninety minutes when I spotted a group of small rock formations East of my direction. As I approached the outcropping I heard a low snarl of animal origin, accompanied by grunts, and groans of a human nature. I moved quickly yet quietly toward the struggle. And a struggle it was. There before me was a smaller, but no less formidable version of an old Earth -- Saber Toothed Tiger. Underneath this ferocious animal was someone dressed in Colonial battle armor, holding the animal at bay, with nothing more than their hands. I stopped dead in my tracks and sized up the situation. Mind you, this only took maybe---- five seconds. As I noticed a crossbow laying directly at my feet a voice rang out....

"Why don't you give me a fair shot at you?! Drive this blasted beast away and face me man to man!"

The bow was in my hands in a flash. As I raised it, I noticed it was not loaded. Damn... I thought. I should have just blown its head off, but that would be messy. There --- off to my right lay a bolt. Snatching it from the ground as I rolled, I came to one knee, nocked the bolt in its channel, raised the bow -- aimed --- and pulled the trigger.

The voice was a little scratchy, but no doubt female. And, the braided hair now hanging down from her disheveled helmet, was a dead giveaway. I smiled inward as I moved toward her thinking... this is a woman I'll definitely like.
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Between the truth and the search for truth, I choose the latter.

Eyes High

Another colaboration between Mahnmut and Eyes

'Was my heart beating?' I wasn’t for sure at the moment. Of course I really knew it was still beating, but the sense that time had frozen was so strong that the question popped into my head. I held my position, stunned by what had happened. The beast laid dead beside me, one of my own bolts protruding from its chest cavity. I realized I must look like a character from one of Old Earth’s 2D vids called cartoons as I first glanced to the entity standing over me, then toward the saber, then back at my rescuer.

Well I had been right about one thing; it had been a scout who had walked so silently upon the fight scene between the saber and me. But that was the only thing I guessed right about the identity of the being to whom I now owed my life. This was no Gunnarian who held his hand out to me now.

I looked up into the face of a member of The Colonial Scurriour Forces. Or at least as much of the face I could see. This scout was dressed in full body armor and his face was half obscured by a HUD unit. I noticed his red hair blowing in the wind where it stuck out below his battle helmet. Why did that catch my eye? I could not see his eyes clearly; However, I could plainly see the playful smile upon his face as he waited patiently for me to accept the offer of his outstretched hand.

With one last glance at the beast that had nearly ended my life, I grasped the scout’s hand, allowed him to pull me to my feet, returned his charming smile, and hesitantly said: “Uhhh, Thanks Scout.” My voice sounded off to me. A little rough. Did he actually chuckle?

We dropped our hands. “No problem Ma’am.”

I brushed the dust from my battle gear. Or at least as much dust as I could. While doing so, I noticed my neck strap had come undone. I gingerly felt my throat and felts wetness and two small, yet long, welts. So the saber had gotten more than just my cheek. Well that explained why my voice sounded different to me. I knew it was more than just the exertion from the battle.

I looked back up at the scout as I refasten my neck guard. Normally I was not one to be at a loss for words. Then again, I normally didn’t find myself beholden to someone for saving me from a bloody beast either; However, I now found myself in the uncomfortable position of being in both situations.

I could not tell what his rank was, I saw no identifying rank patches on his gear, but he carried himself with assurance and confidence. I would bet almost anything that here was an individual who had at least known command in some form or another.

I began collecting my equipment that had been dislodged during the attack. He stood there with a half grin on his face. What was he thinking? And why did it bother me?

“I was heading back to my outfit when that beast caught me.” I said mainly to break the silence. For some reason the silence bothered me more than it should have, and even though I had begun to feel the soreness in my throat and knew I should rest my larynx, I continued to jabber on. “Where is your destination? -- Scout.” I’m not for sure why I had placed that pause there between the question and his title.

"The first Colonial outfit I come across Ma'am." He replied with respectful tone.

“Would you care to accompany me back to my unit? We’re just about a half click away from their last location.” I knew they would still be there unless they had no choice to move out, but as I was speaking the thought invaded my mind that they might have been attacked in my absence and unable to contact me. I hoped I was wrong about that. I knew I had left them in good hands, but if I had lost any of my men due to my fool hearted errand… Well, I would not think about that until I knew for sure.

I looked around again. I was missing something, but what? ‘Get it together Eyes.’ Why was I so distracted? I’ve been in close calls before why should another one get me so addled? I patted all my pockets and straps doing a mental inventory and scanning the area as I did so. Just as I grabbed the empty strap on my back my head snapped up and I looked into the Scout’s grinning face. His arm was extended and his hand clasped my missing crossbow.

“Thanks again.” I said as I reached out to retrieve the device. I hooked the bow back into place, double checked all attachments, and then bent down to retrieve my rifle. I must look like a fresh recruit to this scout.

"I'd be happy to accompany you back to your unit Ma'am. And, most assuredly, welcome the company."
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"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Eyes High

*BZZZZZZ* Just then my com unit literally buzzed. I slapped the button harder than normal in my haste to answer it. Over the speaker came a voice I was not yet familiar with. He was one of the newer recruits I do remember that but I could not recall his name. “Hen house to Fox Eyes, Hen House to Fox Eyes. Do you read? I repeat, do you copy?”

Before I replied, I motioned for the Scout to be silent -- which he already was but still--
“Fox Eyes here, report Hen House.”

I could hear the fear in the private’s voice. “We are under attack Fox Eyes. I repeat, Hen House is under heavy enemy fire, please advise of your location.”

“On my way Hen House. ETA of--” I looked up and could see the smoke beginning to rise from the South-East. How fast could I run over this terrain? Better over estimate just to be safe. “-- about seven minutes. Do you copy?”

“Yes Ma’am. ETA 7 min out. Hurry Sergeant. Corporal Davidson is down and the Lieutenant JG is MIA.”

“Copied Hen House. Fox Eyes out.” Dang it! I looked at the scout for the briefest of seconds and took off running. He would either follow or continue on the way he was heading before he saved my butt. Right now, I could not worry about that. My men were in danger and the two individuals that outranked me were either out of commission or could not be found. Could this day get any worse?!

I ran straight and hard toward the rising smoke. I could now hear the sounds of the intense battle. I saw movement out of the corner of my eye and turned my head, ready to pounce if need be, only to find relief at the sight of the scout keeping an easy pace beside me. We smiled and then both of us kicked it up a degree.

We arrived on point in just under four and a half minutes. My men were holding their own but just barely. We had to fall back to the rock for better coverage. The nervous private met me and saluted. Why in the world would he do such a foolish thing? He must have been fresh off the boat. One of Vorian’s troops would never make such a goof. Oh well, nothing I can do about it now.

“Report.”

“They attacked us about 12 minutes ago Sergeant. The lookouts did not see them coming for some reason. The Corporal was hit within the first 3 minutes. We have managed to drive them back once but Ensign Kayra said they would be mounting another surge. The Lt. JG is not answering his com and we have been unable to locate him.”

“Very well Private. The Ensign is correct. Get a count of our numbers. Regroup and be prepared to fall back. We may need to head for those rocks for better coverage. Get base on the horn. I want to speak with them after I know our situation here. Understand Private?”

“Yes Ma’am” Another quick salute before he turned away. This boy was going to get me killed where the saber had not. All soldiers knew you didn’t salute officers in the field and I was nothing but a bloody Sergeant. Why in the world would he salute me to begin with?

“Excuse me Sergeant." I turned my attention toward the Scout. "Yes?" "Pardon me for being blunt but, that boy is going to get someone killed if you don't reprimand him for saluting in the field. A stern talking too, will calm his nerves."

“Yeah, you are right. But now we have more important issues to deal with. Check your ammo and retrieve any more that you might need. I would appreciate it very much if you could stick around and give us a hand.”

“Yes ma'am, I'd be happy to ma'am. And Sergeant, if you'd allow me a little leeway?"

"Speak your mind Scout."

“Well ma'am, from the looks of things, you seem to be the highest ranked person left among your little group here. Whether you like it or not, you're one of the most important issues at this moment. Without your calm reassurance and guidance, they would surely fall apart. Besides, I didn't save your rear-end this morning, just so some raw recruit could put a target on your forehead."

I actually cracked a little smile at that. I liked this scout. I liked his gumption, his attitude. And of course he was right, and I knew it, it wasn’t just my life that private could endanger with his saluting-- and when it came to the lives of the men and women under my command there were no more important issues than that.

“You are correct Scout and I’ll go speak with him now. I need to do a quick round anyhow to check on my team, might as well start with the private.” I began to take a step but stopped. “Oh and Scout.” “Yes Ma’am?” “While I AM in charge here you are to speak freely. My Commander taught me well and those here trained by him know the value of listening to another’s advice. We might not always agree or follow said advice, but those with this symbol know how to listen to it just the same.“ I pointed to the small (2 cm) V embroidered on my left breast pocket just below the clasp. “If you see a soldier with this emblem you should have no trouble giving respectful advice to him or her.”

I noticed the inquisitive look but he held his tongue so I continued. “I’ll be over there after I finish my round.” I pointed in said direction. “The extra ammo should be there.” I indicated that position while continuing, “And if anyone questions you just tell them you came in with Catcher. And if by some miracle someone remembers to give you the challenge, the pass is ‘Hens’ teeth in the west’.“ That password would let the challenging soldier know that this scout had freely come in with me, but that I had not verified his identity as of yet.

I reached up and placed my hand on his shoulder as I passed and simply said… “Thanks.” I then headed out to find a nervous young private in order to have a little heart to heart chat.

As I walked toward the area I knew the private should be I thought of the small V on my chest. It was really the only identifying emblem on my uniform, other than the flag patch on my arm and my small rank insignia. Why I had pointed it out to the scout I was unsure. I never had done it before. Only those who wore the emblem knew what it meant and that is the way it would stay. It would never be found in any listing of service symbols or ribbons. But you could bet your life that those who wore that small V bore it with honor even knowing that most people never even noticed it, no matter what color it was.
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"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Eyes High

Twenty minutes later I had finished my report to base command and my cheek and neck wounds from the beast had been cleaned and dressed with clear nu-skin patches now covering the areas. The private was calmer and I was sure he would not be saluting anyone else while in the field. I admit I was surprise to find so many nervous privates during my quick round. We had been lucky for the most part. Out causalities had remained at under one percent while our wounded were hovering around the seven percent mark. The enemy had not surged again, so far, as I had expected them to. So we either had inflicted great damage to them or they were just biding their time. I had been ordered to pull back and to await the arrival of a new commander.

We loaded up and headed for the hills. The Scout was still with us. I could not explain it but I was glad he had stuck with us thus far. I knew I should be checking his credentials but my instinct told me he was one I could trust. Kaylen took point and I took rear as we headed out. The Scout stayed near Kaylen at first but around the midway point he fell back and joined me . I knew that the outcropping would provide us with better coverage and I sensed that he agreed.

My mind drifted back to Spiff ever so often. I should have told him sooner. I should have left him a message. I should have…. I shook my head to clear the ill afforded thoughts. If I didn’t stop thinking about them; then he would find out the wrong way, from a chaplain showing up at his station with a grim expression and a form letter. Get your head in the game girl. Do your best so you and the others can go home.
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"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Eyes High

The camp was relatively quiet. Everyone at their posts as we waited for the next attack. It unnerved me that the Gunnarian had not mounted another attack by now. It did not make sense.

I looked to my right, just a yard away the scout had taken up a position in our line, he laid in a pose similar to mine as we watched for any movement from the enemy troops. I still did not know his name.

Just then I heard the recognizable sound of a hopper coming in. I looked up as the unit, which was a mixture of the Old Earth’s Osprey and the Arrakis’ Ornithopter, glided in and landed on the upper ridge just 12 yards away. That should be the new commander. ‘Wonder who drew the short straw?’ I thought to myself. I grinned as I turned my attention back to the landscape spread out in front of me.

Two minutes later I heard three sets of foot steps coming up behind me. Three? I turned and looked behind me. Two privates and an Ensign were heading straight for me. The Ensign I already knew, the others I never would.

The Ensign knelt beside me to give her report. “Sergeant. You and the Scout are requested to report to the Commander on the double.”

“Understood Ensign.” I said as I rose. I looked at the scout who had risen as well and then I turned back to the Ensign. “Lead the way.”

One of the privates took my position on the line while the other replaced the scout.

He and I followed the Ensign to the Commander.

“Here they are Sir.” The Ensign reported, “As ordered.” Funny how to me she had said requested but to him it was ‘ordered.’ Politics.

“Thank you Ensign. You may return to your station.” The Commander said without even turning around. I bristled at the sound of that voice. I knew this ‘commander.’ The Ensign simply nodded and left before the commander continued. “The rest of you go take ten. I wish to speak with Sergeant Catcher and this Scout in private.” I heard multiples of 'Yes Sir' as several people left the area. “Well Sergeant. What do you have to say for yourself?”

What was he referring to? “Sir?”

At last he turned around. Just like I thought. Commander Roscoe.

“Don’t play dumb with me -- Catcher! It doesn’t wear well on you.” That fool was about to say my name!

“Sir.” I was not going to play his game. “What are your orders, Sir?”

“Well Sergeant, to begin with, you are relieved of command.”

That happened quicker than I thought, but why did he request the scout to be present as well? “That is your choice Sir.”

He smirked as he continued. “Since, once again, you seem to have trouble staying put, you are being reassigned.”

“Sir, Yes Sir. To where Sir?”

“Well Sergeant. Since you seem to be so fond of scouting you are being temporally re-assigned to work with the Colonial Scurrior Forces.”

“Sir?”

“Their leader and ours have agreed that we need to re-assess this situation. They are providing their best scout, or so I am told, and we were requested to do the same.” I looked at him bewildered because I knew Roscoe would never pay me a compliment like that and sure enough he continued with: “Of course I was out voted. You have the rest of them hoodwinked as usual. They have chosen you for this assignment. Don’t let them down!”

“Sir, I will do my best Sir.” I hated calling him ‘Sir’ but despite his being a full fledged jerk, he was my commanding officer.

“And that brings us to you Scout.” Roscoe said as he turned his attention to the man who had watched all this in complete silence. “It seems fortunate that you are here at this time. I request that you escort our ‘Sergeant’ here…” Roscoe layered my title with loathsome sarcasm. “… to one of your fellow scouts by the name of…” he looked at a read-out on his unit “Kohana.” Roscoe returned his gaze to the scout. “She is to work with him until further notice. You may assure him that despite her attitude she can be quite good.”

The scout simply nodded. A quiet one this man is.

“Will you be able to get her to this Kohana?’

“Yes. I believe I will. I know his exact location.” Was that a smirk I saw play on the scout’s face?

“Very well then. You two are excused. Grab your gear Sergeant and head out ASAP. Don’t let them down.”

“I will not let MY unit down Commander.” I retorted and then spun to leave. I glanced at the scout as I exited and this time I was sure I saw a smirk riding in place.
_________________
"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Eyes High

Catcher --

What was it with Roscoe? He’s been riding my tail since that expedition on Titan. Well, at least with this reassignment I wouldn’t have to put up with his BS.

We walked in silence to the ammo storage. I still carried all of my equipment from earlier, minus the broken translator of course, but I wanted to get a few more charger packs for my H.Y.E.R. and a couple of projectile rounds just in case.

I signed for the ammo as well as whatever the scout had retrieved earlier. I could follow the rules despite what Roscoe thought. It’s just that the rules were not always so convenient.

I also signed for a couple of M.R.E.s. Didn’t care for them, you’d think over the centuries they would have found a way to make these meals more appetizing. But they were better than nothing and I didn’t know if we would be able to find anything edible out there. Although that beast was probably still laying back there. That would be something. He wanted me for a snack and instead I might wind up eating him. Well that would be up to the scout though. This Kohana might lay in the opposite direction

I turned to look at the scout. He almost seemed to be appraising me. Probably wondering if I could handle the trip. I looked small to begin with despite all my gear and the position he discovered me in this morning probably didn’t help his impression of me. Oh well.

“Ready when you are Scout. Lead the way.”

Chuckling quietly he replied, “Yes ma'am. You're 'loaded for bear', so lets go find you one."

I wasn’t sure whether to be honored or offended by that statement, it was hard to know which definition he meant -- who knew, he might have meant both -- but what I am sure of is; that this was a soldier whom I could envision as a good friend if the situation would permit it. I smiled at him and gestured for him to proceed.

I followed just a half pace behind him. He had a long stride but I was able to keep pace with him easily. After about half a click I broke the silence and asked mischievously. “So Scout. Do I get to know your name before we reach this Kohana or shall I continue just calling you Scout?”

Kohana --

I had been expecting this question from her for some time now. The fact that she put it off and took care of her duties first; said a lot about her character. I'd set a moderate pace as we left the base camp, and she was keeping up nicely; despite loading her small frame with 'hopefully', a lot of unnecessary equipment. I slung my Sig-Tac over a shoulder, turned around to face her, and walking backwards without missing a stride said;

"Allow me to introduce myself ma'am.... Lieutenant Kohana of the 'Scurrior Forces', at your service ma'am." I swiveled on my heal keeping stride, and waited for it.

"HALT!” And there it was. “Explain yourself Scout. What does that mean?”

“Well Ma’am,” I turned to face her and replied with a grin “I think that means you are suppose to call me Sir.”

"Sir, Sorry Sir. But why didn't you say something sooner Sir?"

“I had my reasons, but seriously Ma'am, its just a field-grade title, non-commissioned; so you don't have to really call me Sir.” Then I decide to tease her just a little “And you best not salute me.” I was pleased that she seemed not to have been offended as she replied sarcastically, “I think I can remember not to do that...Sir." Then her face turned serious as she went on to ask, "But why didn't you say something to Roscoe back there?"

“No need to Ma'am. I could tell Your commanding officer was an incompetent jack... errr... individual; so I held my tongue. No reason to upset his skewed sensibilities further."

“Well you do have a point there.” She shook her head as a low chuckle escaped her lips “That’s just like Roscoe to not know what‘s going on, one of these days that man’s arrogance is going to lead to a Major SNAFU or worse -- a Fubar.” I noticed a slight blush tint her cheeks as she continued “True, I should have checked your credentials sooner, but for the Commander-in-Charge to release one of his troops to an unknown, she paused... even if it was just me."

"Excuse me Ma'am!?" I said with an incredulous look on my face. "Don't demean yourself like that. I've seen Commanders like that come and go throughout my service. All but one that I can recall, left in a pine box.You've got more acuity in your little finger than Roscoe has in his whole body."

A slight blush colored her cheeks as she said, "Thank you Sir." I scrunched my eyebrows at her. "Thank you... Kohana." She corrected herself. "Where to now Kohana?"

"I thought we might head back to the area where you had your run in with the Saber. I remember some sweet high ground surrounding that little outcropping. We could make a nice sweep of the area for about.... ten clicks in every direction from there. Besides, I've heard Saber meat is very tasty grilled over an open fire." My last comment garnered a wide grin from her as I asked;

"Would you like to take point Ma'am?"

"Only if you insist. After all... you are the 'scout'."

"Oh... I do, I do."
_________________
"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Mahnmut

Kohana --

I fell in line behind this --- to say the least... interesting 'warrior' and, despite all the gear, I must say, it was a nice view. Considering her short gate, she set a quick pace. We traveled another click in silence, at which time I just had to ask...

"Ma'am I was wondering?" "Yes?" She answered questioningly.

"Now that you know who I am, I for one am getting a little tired of all these 'Ma'ams' in our conversation. Might I know how to address you?"

She stopped. Turned to faced me, and said; "The name is Catcher."

“Just Catcher? Or is there something that precedes or follows that?"

A slight hint of self-consciousness blossomed upon her face as she replied. “First name; Dream.”

I tried to stifle the barest lift to one of the corners of my mouth, but failed while replying thoughtfully;

"Interesting.... very interesting."

“Yeah. My uh, watcher had a wry sense of humor.” I noticed her blush deepened as she faced forward and began to set our pace again.

"In that case 'Dream Catcher'.... I replied hoping she was also aware that her 'watcher' honored her with that name... you can take the watch tonight, and protect me from all the bad dreams that may come, and with the rising of the 'Guardian of Day', everything bad... shall perish in its golden glow."

“I shall do my best brave scout,” she cast over her shoulder. I could actually hear the grin in her voice.

Catcher --

So he was versed in the Ancients’ Native culture -- or at least in some of its aspects. I bet it would be interesting to get into this scout’s head.

We walked in silence for a while, no sounds other than our foot falls and our steady breathing to compete with the sounds of nature around us.

Despite the barren look of this land at first glance, the area seemed to support a large variety of wildlife. True we heard more than we saw but a trained scout can tell the difference between an animal that crawls and one that walks, which makes me even madder at myself for getting caught by that Saber this morning. I should have heard him without the benefit of that snapping twig -- unless he had already been there and I just happened upon his position. A case of being in the right place at the wrong time. Or was that the wrong place at the right time. Well either way, I’m just glad Kohana happened upon the scene when he did.

I glanced over my shoulder and it seemed that Kohana was studying me, or maybe I was just being paranoid. Still-- I wonder what he made of me? What did he think of a scout who allowed herself to be caught by an animal and also failed to check the credentials of an individual before leading them back to her camp? Not a very auspicious beginning to the circumstances I found myself in now.

Even though we were in no particular hurry, we seemed to cover ground at a good clip because faster than I thought we would we came upon the scene of the saber’s attack. “Well.” I called back to Kohana “It looks like something else beat us to the Saber steaks.” There before us laid the carcass of the Saber with about seventy percent of its skeleton showing. “It seems the scavengers on this planet do not waste anytime.”
_________________
Between the truth and the search for truth, I choose the latter.

Eyes High

Continuing collaboration between Mahn and Eyes:

Catcher ---

We left the carcass of the saber where it laid and exited the area after we had studied the prints which trailed to and from the beast. We only identified animal prints, some large and some small. At least, for now, no sign of our enemy.

Three hours later we had covered quite a bit of ground with no indications that we were not alone. I would've thought we might have found something by now. One thing I did notice was that the landscape was slowly, but surely changing.

The terrain was steadily increasing in steepness. We had reached the foothills and would be in the tree line within another quarter click. The sandy terrain was giving way to vegetation as we climbed in altitude.

The sun had started its downward trek. It would not be much longer before dusk. Looked like I would be seeing another night on this planet.

We were just coming out of the second valley (my unit was back on the edge of the first one) when we both stopped. We had spotted it at the same time, however, it was Kohana's hand that had risen to signal a halt. He was fast, I’ll give him that.

It was a single hand-print in a patch of sand about one and a half meters left of a large boulder. He crouched down and held his hand just above the print as I stood watch. We both could tell this was no human hand print. Not only was it about one and-a-half times larger than the average human hand, but even from my standing position I could see the distinct impression of the sixth digit. The question was: was this the print of a Valkyrian or a Gunnarian?

Kohana rose and took the lookout position so I could examine the print. The print was deep and clear. I could see the two thumbs, one on each side, and the four elongated fingers. It had been laid down with much force. Perhaps our unknown companion had fallen. I looked around on the ground in the immediate area. Nothing. I scooted backwards careful not to disturb anything. Still nothing. To the sides… nothing. No Wait! I looked again to the left side of the patch, and there it was. Ever so lightly…brush marks.

I raised, stepped closer to Kohana, pointed down at the area I had just finished examining, and then gave him the signs for: ‘Scout in area. Unknown number.’ He signaled that he agreed with the assessment but that we should continue on course.

My senses were already on high alert as they normally were on scouting missions, but now they seemed to have stepped up several notches. They knew there was an enemy somewhere in the area and they were trying to detect any sign that would give me enough warning. A sound, a sight, even a smell. Something that would pinpoint the area from whence danger might come. But the only sounds I was hearing now were the soft fall of my and Kohana’s feet as we quietly made our way forward and the distant rumble of artillery fire. There was a battle going on somewhere to the south-southwest of our location. Was that my unit under fire? ‘Head back in the game Eyes’ Not even the native animals and insects were making any noise at this time. ‘When even the bugs shut-up, you better listen.’ The warning bells from my basic training days echoed through my mind. There was danger nearby, of that I was sure. But how close, was the answer that eluded me at the moment.

I sniffed the air. I smelled the fragrant fauna located in this tree line on this small segment of this beautiful planet, the dampness in the leaves that scattered the ground as we traveled deeper into the thickening woods, even the unique odor of each of our uniforms. You would be surprised just how small of a fragrance your nose can pick up when your senses are so taut.

My eyes were continually scanning. Left to right, right to left, up and down. As far around as humanly possible. Nothing was seeming out of place. The fading light would soon prove a problem. Not only was the sun setting, taking its revealing light with it, but we were heading deeper into this small forest where the canopy filtered what little light remained. These were not the most ideal conditions to spot an enemy, especially one that did not wish to be spotted.

After another twenty paces we entered a small clearing edged with several large boulders. This area must have seen an ice age not all that long ago or; been the victim of a tsunami to account for such a scattering of the various sizes of boulders I had noticed since my arrival. But due to the height of these trees and the establishment of the cities and villages in the area, what ever the cause that brought these rock formations to lay were they were must have happened at least a few thousand years ago. I wonder if the citizens had ever done an archaeological study of this area.....? Kohana’s hand signal brought my wondering mind back.

Kohana ---

Ever since we left the hand print behind, my senses were tingling. The hairs on the nape of my neck were standing, and the smell of danger in the air was palpable. I'd taken point and Catcher was covering our rear as we slowly made our way further into a small forested area. A glance to my rear revealed Catcher's senses were on high alert as well. Even though she was designated a combat soldier; scouting seemed to come natural to her. Fortune had definitely befell me when I happened upon this... 'soldier'.

We had just entered a small clearing skirted by a few large boulders with a handful of smaller boulders scattered around the general area. It was quiet...too quite. And, with the diminishing light, I decided this was a good spot to make camp for the evening. The rock formations would make good cover just in case our little friend... or friends, decided to stop in. Glancing slightly behind and to my left I noticed Catcher seemed to be lost in some train of deep thought. I raised my hand knowing any movement out of the ordinary would catch her eye.

I motioned for her to come close. As we crouched I whispered so not even a Noctuid Moth could overhear....

"This looks like a good place to set up camp. We're losing light fast and I don't want to take any chances in unfamiliar terrain." She shook her head in agreement as I continued.... " Let's do a sweep of our perimeter before we settle in..." she started to rise.... I reached for her arm... "Hold on a second 'scout' , find as many dried twigs and small branches as you can while clearing a section, then bury them in small bunches in the tall grasses as you proceed to the next section, ... understand?" She nodded and mouthed the word sorry.

"No apologies necessary.... just precautions." She nodded again with an agreeing smile. "Okay, let's get this done.... I'm hungry."
_________________
"Between the worlds of men and make believe, I can be found."

Mahnmut

Continuing collaboration between Mahn and Eyes:

Catcher --

We made cold camp in the clearing after we had completed a sweep of the immediate area. I would put us about fifteen clicks north of my unit.

A cold camp was not my favorite but it was a necessary precaution when you found yourself in unknown enemy territory. A cold camp is simple enough to understand. You make camp with no fire. The less light the better. It wouldn’t be so bad if the MREs tasted better, but I guess every soldier from here back to the beginning of military history have complained about what they had to eat while in the field. At least we did have something to eat. I have known times when that was not the case. So tasteful or not, I dug into my MRE after I had asked a silent blessing over it. It had been my Watcher who had taught me to be thankful for what we had, ‘No matter what!’

We ate silently in the growing darkness and while we sat there I studied this scout, (to whom I owed my life) the best I could. He was of average height, slender, yet muscular. And well equipped for a scout from what I could see. I still had not seen his full face --nor probably would I while on this mission -- for the HUD unit he wore covered most of the upper half of his face. I had used a HUD on several occasions, but did not care for them myself; however, I will admit they can be very handy. But what I could see of his face was impressive.

Earlier I had noticed the tip of a hilt protruding from the top of one of his boots. And of course he carried the normal weaponry of a scout. (I had noticed the JCP pistol on his hip plus the Sig-Tac slung over his shoulder.) But I had the strong suspicion that he was no ordinary scout. Just like I would bet a weeks pay that he carried more weapons than could be seen to the untrained eye, I would also believe that there was more to this silent scout than met the eye. I decided to see what I could discover from this mystery man.

“So Kohana,” he looked me in the eye as he plopped a dried peach into his mouth. “Is there a first part to that name of yours?”

"No. Just plain Kohana." He said while plopping another peach into his mouth.

"Well then. Any significance attached to 'just plain Kohana?" I asked with a devilish grin.

"Yes. It's an old Earth Native American name, specifically from the Lakota peoples'... meaning 'swift'."

"Ahh, I see. And how long have you called the CSF home?”

"Nine and a half years now." He cast his eyes downward and said... "Sixteen months and a day... too long."

‘…and a day too long.’ Those words echoed in my mind. I could tell by his tone and posture that there was a story behind those simple words. A story that this scout should talk about but would not, at least not at this time and place. So despite my insatiable curiosity, I did not ask the question that screamed to be asked. Instead, I tried to draw him back to the beginning -- away from that ‘one day.’

“So what lead you to the scouts Swift?” I asked as lightly as I could -- after a slight pause -- and hoped he wouldn’t think I was being too nosey. It’s never a wise thing to reveal too much about one’s self in this line of work, but there was just something about this scout. I wanted to know the man sitting in front of me.

Even though I had always considered myself to be a friendly person, I knew, by accepting this life, that I would be unable to get really close to anyone. Spiff had been a surprisingly exception to that rule, much to the chagrin of a few of my superiors. I smiled at that memory as I waited for Kohana’s response. I did not have to wait long.

Kohana --

Even though I liked this woman, and realized she was just trying to find out a little more about who she had been teamed with, her quiet yet probing questions, reminded me of my psychologists and councilors during my foolish adolescent years. Which, by the way; lead directly to my military service. This wasn't the time or place for a long revelation of my youthful indiscretions, so I gave her the short version.

I took a drink of water, cleared my throat, and began. "Well Catcher. First let me say it wasn't by choice; hmmm...., then again it was a 'choice' just not one I'd ever thought I'd have to make. You see, I'd fallen in with the wrong crowd during my adolescent years, and wound up working as a runner for a group of smugglers who called themselves 'Redrum Inc'. I could tell by Catchers expression that she was running the references through her mind, and wondering which one was attached to my story.

"Now, in my defense just let me say I had no idea what the full extent of the their operation was. I was young and our family was in need of money , so I did what I was good at. All I really did was run messages and packages from one point to another. Anyway, I was in the wrong place at the right time... 'for the authorities that is' and was arrested along with three of the smugglers.

"To make a longer story short, after considerable counseling, and psychological analysis I was given the choice of incarceration , or military service. So.... as evidenced by my sitting here with you, I chose military service, which led to my being picked for the CSF. Hindsight being what it is; it was a good choice."

I reached into my parfleche, withdrew a couple sticks of pemmican, and offered one to Catcher while saying; "It's my own recipe, and more edible than those MRE's you brought along." She excepted my offering while I turned the table on her.

“So Catcher, a little 'tit for tat'. How long have you been a soldier and what drew you to this life of ‘ease?’” In the fading light of dusk I saw her grin begin to spread and a twinkle illuminate her eyes.

“Sometimes it seems like forever, yet at the same time, it also seems like just yesterday I walked through the gates at boot camp. In real time though I guess it’s been about fourteen years now.” I could tell that even though she was looking at me, she was not seeing me but something in the past as she continued answering my question. “As far as what drew me into this life… what can I say? The sense of adventure, the longing to explore, the chance to discover, the need to be something more -something… special.” She sighed and her focus returned to me. “My Watcher and I had talked about me joining when I became of age but he never gave a definitive answer and when he left I made the decision myself. Passed all the tests and never looked back.”

She took a bite of the pemmican. "This is good." She said sincerely. I simply nodded and continued with my own line of questioning.

“You mentioned your ‘Watcher’ before. What do you mean by a watcher?” She lightly giggled in what seemed like embarrassment.
“I’m sorry. I forget sometimes that others don’t know. Where I was raised, the father figure is called ‘Watcher’ because it is his responsibility to watch over the family. The mother figure would be referred to as ‘Care-er’ or ‘Teacher’ for it was her duty to care for the children and to teach them the basics until Watcher took over the training.” She sighed before continuing. “At least it was that way in the traditional families. My watcher had no mate, so he raised me on his own. He was both Care-er and Watcher, until the day he died and I joined the Corps.”

Suddenly, this soldier seemed much older to me that I originally thought so I did what men through out the universe know they should never do and asked her: “How old are you Dream?” To my surprise she chuckled.

“Actually, if truth be told, I’m not sure.” I saw her smile at my questioning expression before she went on to explain. “I was a ‘foundling’ and Watcher could only guess at my age. He and the search party never found any other survivors nor any records in the rubble in which I was discovered nor in the immediate area. The best guess that they could make was that I was around two years of age. According to what I was told, I was walking and talking, but none of them recognized the language I was speaking and was therefore unable to question me about age or origin. So the short answer to your question is that I think I‘m in my late 20s.”

Wow. That was more than I expected to hear from her and by the look on her face it was more than she had planned to tell me. She finished the pemmican I had given to her then suddenly rose. “Sir, Would you like me to take first watch Sir?”
_________________
Between the truth and the search for truth, I choose the latter.