Trials And Tribulations

Being referred to in whispers as, “The Clan who's name may not be spoken,” we are simply called “The Brotherhood.” The motto says it all, from top to bottom we will be always one. You never know when your clan may need a specialist from one of the other sectors. A heavy hitter may go down to reinforce a reserve unit or some hot shot with piss ants may show up and save the day. We won't have heroes as such, each of us perform heroically throughout the year. Finding the right time to shine is a skill as much as any of the specialties. Months and years of battling can harden anyone, if they don't break. We've lost a few that way too, always sad when you've done all you can and wish you could have done more.

Cleaning blue paint off my fleet makes me want to call this last war the Smurfywar, so reminiscent of childhood days of fun and innocence. The Brotherhood couldn't manage a second Gold medal in the Faction Wars. Although we came out strong the first FWs, too many complications made the task more difficult the second time around. My commander has been fading in and out of communication on the far side of the Galaxy. Some men have transferred to other divisions temporarily and keeping track of so many dozen individuals is taxing. Sure glad the General spent so much energy helping me prepare.

Jean entered The Hood Bar and Grill looking disheveled, “The men cannot come up with a consensus Sir, I mean Major, ma'am.” New recruits seemed nervous more often than not. Although my bloody reputation was earned, it was never against my brothers.

“Give it time, they'll come together. It's what we do.” I had to let time cure his doubts, it was the best 'seasoner' ever.

Willie piped in, “I see no problem with using The South for my team.” His southern drawl passing through the wicked smile.

I had thought considering all the different sectors we came from, like gathering up the winds, we could claim the power of the four corners. Names are powerful after all.

Aaron seemed disappointed as he added, “The opponents took the wind from our pipers as The Storm moved through. We thought we had planned for everything, my apologies on the oversight.” Like an afterthought, he added, “You know I'd rather keep our name.”

“We all would Sergeant but that is not an option. Orders have come down and now we must see this thing through.” As my mind drifted for a moment, visions of friendly fire ensuing because of this mess.

Snapping back to the task at hand, we were pressed for time and had much to accomplish before the next wars rolled around. “Joel, please work with Bryan and get the best minds together. I want unity and a smooth running clan. The Brotherhood has never backed down from a challenge and we will not start now.”

“You got it.” was the simple reply I always liked to hear.

Submitted by Deborah Roaché-Hudak #289133