Sunday Snippet: Veracity of War

Wow, March is being its typical mercurial self. Warm up and then plunge back into the teens and single digits. The back-and-forth weather is normal but not fun.

Crazy-busy week with work projects. I'm thrilled to have my calendar filling up and excited to start some new manuscripts. Also getting more details sorted out for Tip Jar Shorts. I need to find a full day I can dedicate to getting everything where it needs to be.

Very limited viewing this week. My brain decided it needed quiet to focus on the reading I needed to finish up for one of my work projects. I probably needed the break.

I did get more of the One Lane Bridge episode watched. I might take a brief vacation from this one. There's a lot going on in this show and focus is going to be important so I don't miss anything.

Finished up season three of London Kills with the behind-the-scenes bonus episode. I always enjoy getting a deeper look at how everything comes together in a series.

Started another episode of Death in Paradise. I'm about halfway through and I like the tension in this one. Also enjoyed Neville and Commissioner Patterson being on the same page for once.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Veracity of War, a novella that explores changing dynamics in a relationship.

Here's the miniblurb:

The veracity of war takes a toll when Emerson Gamble assumes command of a military outpost after his captain loses his life. Sheena Tram wonders if they'll be able to maintain their relationship when the burden of responsibility always gets in the way.

And a sneaky peek…

"To a good man and an excellent CO. I have big shoes to fill." Emerson raised his glass. "To Captain Elias Marx."

Along with the rest of the unit, Sheena raised her glass. "To Marx!" She downed the shot and turned the glass upside down before meeting Emerson's gaze. "A speech wouldn't be remiss, especially after that excellent sendoff." She might be pushing boundaries, but she wanted Emerson to get off on the right path.

And letting the unit know how he intended to move forward would quell any uncertainty.

Emerson didn't call her out, but he narrowed his eyes just a bit before he took a deep breath. "A speech. Right." Squaring his shoulders, he directed his gaze over the entire unit. "I couldn't ask for a better crew than the one I'm with right now. We've been through the worst humanity has to offer, and we've come through that gauntlet … maybe not intact or unscathed, at least not on a personal level but stronger as a cohesive group. That's where our strength is. We function better because of each other, because we have each other's backs. If we find a weak spot, we pick up the slack together and share the burden. Marx trained us that way, and I have no doubt we'll continue to honor his memory by utilizing those lessons under my command." He picked up a shot freshly poured by the medic. "To Razor Company. Sharp and true."

Everyone toasted. "Sharp and true!"

Sheena downed her alcohol, savoring the burn of the liquid and the words of Emerson's toast. Sharp and true. Simplistic but hugely effective as a rallying cry. And that's what he'll have to be. As their new leader, Emerson would have to be sharp on the uptake and true to his subordinates. Where will that leave us? She had no answer to the question, but she'd be the first in line to help ease the transition regardless of how it might affect the personal relationship with Emerson.

Two hours later, members of the unit started heading for their racks. Everyone wanted to be as well rested as possible before the next mission operation. Sheena stayed behind to help clear up the glasses and bottles. And to spend some time with Emerson.

After stowing the alcohol in the cupboard, Emerson made his way to the large expanse of windows, gazing into the depths of space. The tension returned to his shoulders, and he heaved a sigh. Sheena put the washed glasses away and observed him for several long moments. She had no idea what kind of weight he carried with the bump in rank, but she did have a way she could help soothe his unease.

Making her way to his side, she wrapped her arms around him. "What do you see out there? Because it's not the stars."

Emerson snorted. "I'm seeing a black void that needs filled, and I'm not ready." He circled her waist. "I don't think being a good soldier qualifies me to take over for the captain."

Sheena frowned. "Marx could have picked anyone to assume command. He chose you." Her head tilted back, and she met Emerson's gaze. "Why do you think he did?" Emerson didn't lack confidence, so what had him twisted up?

He shrugged. "Honestly? My guess would be because I'd served with him the longest." Easing away from her, he clasped her hand and led her to one of the long, wide benches tucked into the alcove that faced the windows.

Sheena nodded. "Okay, that tracks. But he trusted you to get us to the egress point. That has nothing to do with how long you've served with him." She swung her legs up and motioned for Emerson to do the same. "You already acted as his de facto second in command. He delegated a lot of responsibility because he counted on you to follow through with his orders. Even the unspoken ones. You didn't have to stop and think about how he would've handled things. You didn't have to question what he wanted to happen. And you never let him down. That's why he picked you to assume leadership." The truth of that observation couldn't be denied.

Emerson shifted his position and settled her back against his chest. "Kind of like how you and I work together … perfectly in sync." His lips brushed her temple.

Sheena didn't know how much longer they would be, but she smiled. "Pretty much." She angled her head around. "And not just during battle." Her hand cupped his face, and she met his mouth with hers.

Emerson deepened the kiss and worked the buttons on her shirt undone, exactly how she planned. She had a sinking feeling their relationship would be in a for a big change, but for now, she'd tuck that concern away and enjoy being with him. Shrugging her arms out of her sleeves, she broke the embrace and quickly shed the rest of her clothes.

I like how this story is coming together. It's fun to dig in to an established relationship and see what pops up when outside factors force change.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Veracity of War

Another busy week with multiple projects on all the burners. I've been doing oracle card readings every morning and, based on what I'm seeing, things won't be slowing down anytime soon. I'm totally okay with that.

We had a few lovely days of spring before winter came roaring back. Two days in the mid-thirties with rain and flurries. Bleh. Then again, when I'm still wearing shorts and flip-flops in October, I'll try to remember being cold in March.

Not a bad week of television viewing. I'm kind of off-schedule, but that happens sometimes. I have a couple of movies and musical specials I want to watch and that might swing things back to my usual show cycle.

I started the week with Star Trek: Discovery and, ugh, I got very emotional. I've got one final episode, I think, of season two and then I might dive into the Ready Room to get some insider details.

Caught two episodes of Chicago Med and I kind of like the tension building between everyone. Sad to see Will and Nat's wedding not happen and I really disliked the FBI agent overseeing him. Not sure how I feel about the whole Rhodes dynamic. But, knowing what I know about what happens later, it'll prove interesting to see how it all unfolds.

Watched two episodes of Snoopy in Space: The Search for Life. I'm still enjoying the science stuff mixed in with the antics of Snoopy and Woodstock. I'm always kind of in my happy place after I watch the short features.

I liked the Cuffs episode this week. There's a good mix of humor and drama in this show and I enjoy the partner dynamics. The detective stories are a blend of weird and gritty and I like those angles also.

Enjoyed two episodes of Silent Witness. Finished up the second episode of a two-parter and it didn't go in the direction I thought it would. I love when that happens. Started a new two-parter and it's kind of intense, which I like. The detective is a bit of a hard ass and that kind of annoys me, but it's good drama.

I'm almost finished with Classic Who season twenty-three. As expected, the Master made an appearance. I'm a little wobbly on the whole Doctor's darker side thing, but it's an interesting concept and gets a little work-in during the New Who series episodes.

Caught two more episodes of Aliens in Alaska and I like getting a bit of an education about the remote central interior of the state and the smaller towns. The UFO and alien stuff is just gravy.

Watched two more episodes of Muppets Now. This version of the show is growing on me and I like the repeat appearances by a couple of the guest stars along with one or two new ones that pop in. Of course, I love the Muppet Labs field testing, probably my favorite skit of the new version.

Harrow is really amping up the tension. I'm still so angry they killed off one of my favorite characters but I like how it makes Harrow do some soul-searching. I have no clue what the hell Maxine is doing but I hope there's a good reason for it. The one character that annoys me still annoys me so no change there.

Enjoyed another episode of Peak Practice. We're moving into the trauma of the week style and I'm kind of okay with that. There's enough carry through from previous episodes it still feels like the same show. I'm almost finished with season seven and I'm still liking the show.

Finished up MasterClass with Es Devlin. I thoroughly enjoyed her lessons and actually have some good information to apply to my work. Should be starting a new class this week and I'm planning on going with another science series.

Caught two episodes of Young Wallander and, wow, this show hits hard sometimes. I kind of guessed about who really had a hand in the killings and I'm glad that played out the way I thought it would. I won't rule out another twist though. I'm kind of expecting one.

I started season three of Classic Rugrats and watched several episodes. A couple are probably in my top five for this season—at least until I watch more.

Finished up Queens of Mystery with the final Behind the Scenes bonus. I'm actually glad I did watch because I wondered if they'd recast the lead character and they had. I might need to revisit so I have the details straight but the recast is fairly seamless.

Also watched another episode of Blue Heelers and really enjoyed it. Nice to get some additional backstory about Nick. I'm also such a fan of Chrissy and Adam's relationship. I hope that lasts for a while.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Veracity of War, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

The veracity of war takes a toll when Emerson Gamble assumes command of a military outpost after his captain loses his life. Sheena Tram wonders if they'll be able to maintain their relationship when the burden of responsibility always gets in the way.

And a sneaky peek…

Sheena worked out her frustration from the heated discussion with Emerson on a heavy bag. She grabbed a shower and cooled down but still didn't see a way forward with Emerson—not with him as the CO. Draping a towel over her shoulder, she exhaled slowly and braced to face Emerson in quarters.

She opened the hatch and stopped short—stunned. "What's all this?" A table with two entrees took center stage and the other two occupants of their space were nowhere to be found.

Emerson swept an arm out. "This is a special celebration for me and you." He nodded toward the seating arrangement. "We'll be disturbance free for the rest of the day." Pulling her chair out, he waited for her to sit then moved around to settle across from her.

Sheena bit her cheek against a snarky reply. Emerson put some effort into this and she'd be stupid to ruin a surprise … and a celebration?

Waiting until he removed the lids from their plates, she arched a brow. "How did you manage to pull this off? I only spent ninety minutes working out and showering." Her heart swelled a little … he remembered her love of simple food—kielbasa and pierogis with steamed green beans.

Emerson shrugged. "I had a little help, which I'll explain later. Let's dig in." He stabbed a piece of meat and took a bite.

Sheena followed suit. His gesture had her filling with hope. But she didn't let it get out of hand. Too much stood in their way.

They enjoyed their meal in companionable silence, only commenting on the delicious flavor of the ingredients and the perfect texture of the beans. Comfort food at its finest and something Sheena needed at the moment. She also needed answers.

Finishing her last bit of kielbasa, she set her fork aside. "Why? I mean, why are we having a celebration?" She slouched down a little, stomach full and curiosity piqued.

Emerson set his utensils down. "The colonel realized I'm a little overworked doing my old job and the captain's, so I get to pick my 2IC." He paused and held her gaze. "I want you."

Sheena blinked. "Can you do that?" Well, duh, of course he could.

But should he? She had more concern about what their unit would think than anything else.

Emerson rolled a shoulder. "At this point, what can the brass say? They're not sending anymore officers to the outpost."

Sheena shook her head. "Not who I mean. This is about our unit. They can look at this as a situation of you're sleeping with me and promoting me because of it." The idea left a bitter taste in her mouth.

Emerson waved off the concern. "No, look. We've proven we work well together. You know what I'm thinking before I do sometimes. We need that in the field." He leaned in a little closer. "They can't argue that point and they won't." He grabbed her hand. "They trust you. Us." His thumb brushed over her skin.

Sheena nodded. "Okay, valid reasons." And ones he'd obviously given a lot of thought.

Which meant he'd been weighing this option for a while now … waiting for the right opportunity to make it happen.

Emerson squeezed her fingers. "Then let's celebrate and take the night—just for us." He got up and slid around the table to tug her from her seat. "Won't be official until tomorrow, but we'll be sharing this space—alone—as the commanding officers of our unit.

Sheena's eyes widened. "How're Blant and Roma gonna feel about that." They'd have to pack and move, which always sucked.

Emerson cupped her face. "They're okay with the idea and I'm supposed to pass along their congratulations." His lips brushed over hers.

Sheena tilted her head back. "They already know?"

Emerson shook his head. "Not about the bump in rank. They're happy for us though."

Sheena grinned. "In that case, we have some business that needs taken care of." She caught his mouth in a hard kiss.

Emerson scooped her up and deposited her on a bunk then dragged his shirt over his head. "Gonna join me or what?"

I love the vibe between Sheena and Emerson. They're a fun couple to write.

 

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Veracity of War

Man, what a week. Sixty-one degrees one day and twenty-two the next. Ohio is crazypants sometimes. Yesterday, it snowed and, since it's the first significant accumulation we've had this winter, everyone forgot how to get around in the white stuff. It is rather nice it waited until the weekend. Monday's commute should go smoother. LOL

Had a light viewing week for television shows. Caught another episode of Underbelly: Razor. I thoroughly enjoy getting a feel for Australia in the twenties. It's a very different vibe from Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and I like that.

Also caught another episode of Babylon 5. I've also been tuning into Comet occasionally to catch up there also. Also got to finally catch The Flash's 100th episode. Gotta say, the messing with the timeline gives me a headache. I'm invested in the characters though so I'll keep watching.

Watched the second part of Blade's pilot episode. I liked this series when it aired but never got to watch it all the way through in order. I'm looking forward to having the chance now.

Started season fourteen of Midsomer Murders. The changing of the guard from Barnaby one to Barnaby two is fun to watch. I didn't get to see that episode in its original run.

I'm almost finished with season one of Pensacola Wings of Gold. In all honesty, I'm not sure I'll stick it out for the other two or three seasons. It sometimes irritates me when they scrap an entire cast and almost start over.

Caught another episode of Lexx. I really forgot how cornball some of the series ended up being. Still… it's a great nostalgia thing. Back when Syfy was SciFi and I watched the channel almost exclusively. I miss those days.

Tried to watch Gotham's fifth season premiere and my app decided to crap out. Not sure what the problem was so I'll try again later this week.

And that's it for television. Tonight's post is from Veracity of War, a novella that started with a two-word prompt of "it's over". I opted for something I hoped would be a little different and didn't make it about a relationship ending.

Here's the mini-blurb:

The veracity of war takes a toll when Emerson Gamble assumes command of a military outpost after his captain loses his life. Sheena Tram wonders if they'll be able to maintain their relationship when the burden of responsibility always gets in the way.

And a sneaky peek…

Emerson stood back while the team—shit, his team for the time being—filed out of the transport. They gathered at the edge of the hangar deck and the cold grip of reality kicked him in the gut. They had to debrief and needed him to take the lead.

"I can't do this." Numb and dazed, he wanted to grieve now that they'd made it back to the ship.

No time for that. Gotta move ahead.

Sheena broke away from the group and came to his side. "You ready?" She held his gaze, steady and true.

Her voice touched the core of strength he kept in reserve. "On we go." He strode toward the unit with Sheena in step beside him. "Let's get to the briefing room for our after-action reports." Moving into the corridor, he propped his rucksack against the bulkhead and entered the space but stopped short when the ship commander rose from the front row.

Colonel Owen Marshall greeted Emerson with a terse nod. "Gamble, a moment before we get started?" His head jerked toward the small office to their left.

Emerson followed the colonel and stood at attention when they got inside. "Sir."

Marshall waved, indicating his wish for informality. "You've had a shit day. Relax, Gamble." He cut to the point. "With the loss of Marx, I'm issuing a field promotion and giving you command of the unit." He stuck out his hand. "Congratulations, Captain."

Emerson blinked, trying to absorb the news. "Uh, thank you, sir. I assumed I'd have a temporary spot until a replacement for Captain Marx could be brought out." Not in a million years did he expect a bump in rank.

Colonel Marshall retrieved a box from the small desk in the room and flipped it open. A set of pips with a star in the center of crossed rifles sat inside. Owen pulled one out and motioned for Emerson to remove his current rank pins.

The colonel affixed the new brass to Emerson's collar. "We're not getting replacement officers right now. The current wave of thinking is to move officers up through the units. No one has the experience we do out here. Sending inexperienced personnel will make us lose ground." He paused and met Emerson's gaze. "And we don't have any to give. If we can't hold the line here, we might as well surrender to the Amborites." He stood back and folded his arms across his chest.

Emerson blew out a breath. "For once, I can't argue with their logic. But I hate to get a promotion that isn't based on merit." Marx's death would hit everyone hard.

Marshall's eyes widened. "Gamble, you earned this. Maybe the circumstances aren't ideal, but it doesn't matter. You're more than qualified to lead this team."

The vote of confidence bolstered Emerson even if it rang a little hollow. What else would the colonel say? The enemy wouldn't relent and Marshall needed soldiers to put boots on the ground.

Owen started toward the briefing area. "Give your group some time to grieve but have them ready for another operation within forty-eight hours." He stepped out into the larger room. "Attention, soldiers. It's my privilege to inform you Captain Gamble is your new commanding officer effective immediately."

A round of subdued congratulations went through the group. Emerson took a spot behind the podium and Marshall gave a nod before he exited the room. Sheena quirked a brow but took a seat in the front row. Geez, they definitely had a lot to talk about after the briefing.

Pausing a moment, he looked out at the assembled unit. They'd walked and fought through hell more than once and came out a stronger, better team. He'd put this group up against anything the Amborites could throw at them. They couldn't let losing Marx tank morale.

Emerson cleared his throat. "Seven pm, obs deck. We'll give Captain Marx his due." With a bottle of something strong and potent.

All eyes in the room focused on Emerson. Heads nodded and low mumbles of agreement went through the group. Emerson sought Sheena's gaze and when she met his, she gave him a wide smile.

Putting her thumb up, she quietly said, "A proper send off and passing of the torch. Good choice."

Her seal of approval pushed him into action. "Okay. Let's debrief and get the after action reports filled out and filed."

This one is plotted out in the loosest terms. I have a feeling Emerson and Sheena are going to insert their ideas into the mix. LOL

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Veracity of War

I can't quite believe half of October is over. Yeesh, time flies in a big way. LOL

My usual television ramblings will get underway after a brief pause to let everyone know I'm still not feeling this season of Doctor Who. The reason behind the 'repeat' face, so far, is beyond lame. I'll have to watch the conclusion to see if I still feel the same way.

I finally watched the last two episodes *ever!* of Strike Back. I can safely say I'm thrilled with how Stonebridge and Scott's story ended. YAY!!! Now I'll have to start a rewatch of the entire series. LOL

Arrow and The Flash are keeping me glued to the screen. I love both shows so much. And Agents of SHIELD isn't doing too bad either. I like where things are going there.

Gotham and Sleepy Hollow are maintaining solid episodes. Looking forward to seeing where Gotham takes the Bruce in Training story. I'm also really excited to see how Gordon keeps all the plates spinning in his life. On a side note, I am a little sick of Barbara but I have a feeling her story might pay off in a big way. I'll keep watching.

Got caught up on Haven. I'm really going to miss this show when it's gone. I love the every quirky thing about it. The same goes with Lost Girl. I'm dying to see how Bo's story ends, but I'm savoring every moment I get to watch.

And that's the TV wrap up this week.

Tonight's post is from The Veracity of War, a novella where my characters have to keep the relationship fires burning against some pretty big odds.

Here's the mini-blurb:

The veracity of war takes a toll when Emerson Gamble assumes command of a military outpost after his captain loses his life. Sheena Tram wonders if they'll be able to maintain their relationship when the burden of responsibility always gets in the way.

And a sneaky peek…

"It's over." Emerson Gamble slumped against the outcropping and dragged air into his lungs.

Sheena Tram couldn't speak, too exhausted to form words, but she reached out and grabbed his thigh before sliding down into a crouch.

They'd done the unimaginable. Ass-deep in enemy-held territory, they'd driven the marauders back and gained back some of their ground. Fighting side-by-side with Emerson always proved to be an advantage. They worked in tandem, reloading each other's weapons and picking off targets one by one.

If she had to live through a war, having Emerson in the thick of it with her made the strain bearable.

His fingers gave her hand a squeeze before he expelled his empty clip and reloaded. Just in case.

"Gamble! Get over here!" A medic motioned Emerson over.

Captain Marx, their CO, lay on the ground, his color ashen and pale, his breathing labored.

Several wounds seeped blood and red pools formed on his clothes.

Marx blinked his eye open and met Emerson's gaze. "Gamble. Assume command. Get the unit to the extraction point." His voice rasped and rattled and talking took a lot of effort.

Emerson kneeled down. "Sir, let's get you patched up and we'll move out." He rifled through the supplies lying around and found a compression dressing.

Sheena glanced toward the medic. A quick shake of his head indicating the captain didn't have a chance. Remorse over losing a good man didn't stop her from what needed to me done. She would mourn the dead later.

She laid a palm on Emerson's shoulder. "We need to go. And you need to lead us out of here." He might not want to face Marx's imminent death, but he had to.

Emerson nodded, looking a little shell-shocked. His head bent forward and he inhaled, slowly letting the breath out before he squared his shoulders and stood up.

He gave a general order. "Pack up and be ready to move out in five." He waved off a barrage of questions. "Lock it up. Get your gear and any spare ammo loaded up. Now."

The unit obeyed the directive, holding their silence. Emerson glanced in Sheena's direction. She quirked a brow, answering his unasked question—whatever he needed, she'd make it happen. She had his back.

He cocked his head to one side. "McCabe, Reilly, Tram. You're with me." He moved away from the group. "Start digging. I'm not going to leave Captain Marx out in the open for the enemy to abuse." A sad fact they'd encountered on too many occasions. "I'm staying with Marx. He shouldn't die alone." He returned to the CO's side and crouched next to the man.

Sheena gave a nod and she, McCabe, and Reilly got the plot dug and ready for the captain. She walked over, stooping beside Emerson. The medic had cleared the debris and joined the others. Emerson heaved a sigh, picked the captain up, and carried him over to the freshly dug grave. Laying the man to rest, he helped fill in the plot then gathered his gear and strode toward the soldiers. Sheena didn't hear what Emerson said, but the unit started fanning out into the forest, heading toward the egress location.

Hefting her pack over her shoulder, she shook her head. "Why do I have a nasty feeling it's just beginning." The memory of Emerson's claim of the battle being over seemed like a lifetime ago.

Following McCabe and Reilly, she fell into step beside Emerson and fought the sinking sensation in the pit of her stomach.

Her comrade in arms and her lover had just become her commanding officer.

Yeah, Sheena's going to have trouble wrapping her head around the chain of command / love of her life balance. LOL

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye