Tavaar - 55th Edition

He gave her a slightly more than affectionate kiss. When he released her, Shello was there to take his place. Shello was replaced by Sashwa, Ahzbah, Vohbiv, and most of the company. Last was Nayvahl. He looked proud and happy. She kissed him and then gave him orders.

“Show Commander Seratahn the captain’s hut. She can meet comfortably with Khaiu and Shello there. After supper, that will be where the High Command will begin interviews. Arrange sleeping quarters for the General, the Commanders, and their retinue. Double up where you must. Move who you must. Set an order for the warriors to be interviewed. I am not overly concerned about the order, save that I want it done by squad, beginning with Alobahr’s and ending with Sashwa’s. Squad leaders will go after soldiers. You will be last. Sashwa ill go right before you. If you have any questions, or trouble, see me. Understand, Lieutenant?”

“Yes, Lieutenant.”

When Nayvahl left to carry out his orders, Tavaar at last began to feel the effects of all that had just transpired. Her emotions were mixed and raging like children at a party. Only not everything she felt was joy. The company might be disbanded. It seemed certain that some of her recommendations were going to be rejected. And not everyone had congratulated her on her promotion. Neither Alobahr, nor any from his squad, had done so. Despite all the reasons for joy, a feeling of depression began to drape over her. She needed to get away. She headed for her hut, walking briskly.

As she neared the safety and seclusion of her hut, she abruptly stopped. There was Alobahr, blocking her way. His squad was arranged in two lines of three on either side, forming a lane which led to him. Tavaar walked up slowly, stopping just beyond the lane’s entrance. She waited. She was not sure what this was about. Since returning to camp, none of them had said much at all. Alobahr walked forward, through the lane. As he passed each pair (one on his left and one on his right) they turned to face her. When he reached her, they all knelt to one knee in a single motion.

Tavaar felt her throat tighten. This was an honor generally reserved for warriors having accomplished some great deed, or having made some great sacrifice. It was not generally given to newly appointed lieutenants. She took a breath and forced herself to speak evening.

“Thank you. Please rise.”

They stood. Alobahr looked into her face.

“’Congratulations’, and a kiss, would have been sufficient,” she said.

“This is not for your promotion, Lieutenant. However, we do with to offer congratulations for that.’

He took her shoulders and kissed her, stepping aside as each of the six remaining warriors too their turn. Then they aligned themselves before her as before.

“Congratulations, Lieutenant,” said Alobahr.

The squad disbursed.

Tavaar stood in stunned silence. This had been unexpected, and it only served to fuel her raging emotions.