While her women sat, scattered across the road in a rough semi-circle, chewing on their rations, she spoke clearly and quietly. No one said anything, for her women were loyal, and always showed the respect they knew she deserved.
“As the Queen said, this is a delicate situation. If there are any of you who feel you are not up to the task, tell me now.”
There was a small pause while the women looked around at each other, an assessing gaze on each face, and then – Agate had been expecting it – Bethany stood. “Ma’am,” she started, but didn’t get a chance to say “I feel I would jeopardize the mission” because Agate cut her off.
“Shut up, Bethany. You’re coming and that’s final.”
Bethany gaped like a fish out of water, then shut her mouth with clunk sound. “Ma’am,” she said tightly, through her teeth, “with all due respect I think that’s an uninformed decision.”
The Jade Star of Athering is the sequel to Bellica.
Be sure to check out the other people participating in SFFSat HERE!
Great little snippet, though why did they ask for volunteers to step down from the assignment, if the first person to agree to do so was going to be shot down?
ReplyDeleteWell, anyone else would have been allowed to leave, because Agate would know that they honestly didn't feel they could cope. Bethany has a low opinion of herself as a soldier, which Agate doesn't share.
DeleteInteresting snippet. Loyalty doesn't equal obedience.
ReplyDeleteI guess Agate wasn't really looking for 'input.' Kind of like asking for 'volunteers.'
ReplyDeleteExcellent snip.
“Shut up, Bethany. You’re coming and that’s final.”
ReplyDeleteHa! Loved it. Shows a lot about both of their characters here.
Hehe...this snippet was funny (but maybe that's just me). Like how they didn't really have any choice... Great snippet.
ReplyDeleteHaha! There's always that one in the crowd that you know is going to dump on your plan. Bethany is my middle daughter's name--it fit just perfect for me. It would have been her. LOL.
ReplyDeleteI'm wondering why Bethany wanted to drop out. What is this mission they're undertaking? I guess I'll have to wait like everybody else.
ReplyDeleteCurious, and curiouser. Wonder what Bethany's problem is ... and Agate's reasoning.
ReplyDeleteLol. I want to hear what Bethany has to say!
ReplyDeleteOuch, dissension in the ranks!
ReplyDeleteThere's always one.
ReplyDeleteThanks, everyone! I'll be posting the next bit this Saturday. :)
ReplyDelete