Name: Lucian Withers

Age: 57

Role: Father of Zylphia Withers and Husband of Phoebe Withers

Bio: A faithful and hard working man, Lucian is well liked by all that know him. He is known to spoil his wife and his only daughter whenever he can afford to. His family isn't the wealthiest family, they are pretty well off financially. Lucian is know to be rather strict at times while his wife is the more easygoing one. When he married his wife this war wasn't even a thought, but now it seems to be all anyone talks about. He and his wife had given up on having a child of their own but were surprised when it was confirmed that his wife was expecting a child and then little Zylphia was born. He has enjoyed watching his daughter grow but does not approve of her silly ideas about women being able to work. His wife never worked and she seems happy, he doesn't understand why his daughter is saying this things. People talk and he finds out, it isn't very nice but what can he do? She's an adult now. All he can do is try to get her to stop talking nonsense.



Name: Phoebe Withers

Age: 54

Role: Mother of Zylphia Withers and Wife of Lucian Withers

Bio: Fair, caring, protective, overall a cheerful person is how people would describe Phoebe. A lover of get togethers, Phoebe enjoys having a good time with her friends who are fellow neighbors. Occasionally she goes to the local hat shops just to check up on her daughter. No one seems to approve of what she does not even her husband but she knows her daughter means no harm in what she does. Phoebe believes that this could be a phase she is going through since she has no siblings but her husband insists that it needs to stop no matter what it is. Phoebe still is surprised that she even had a daughter, it took her and her husband quite some time to finally be able to have her. That was the happiest day of their lives and she hopes that her husband doesn't grow to hate their daughter for what she's doing now.



Name: Calum MacFarland

Age: 27

Role: Enemy Soldier

Bio: Calum, a soldier of good principles. He's also a very good listener and follows any order without question. When he first heard of the need for men, he didn't stop to question why, he just knew that he had to help out however he could. So he signed up and here he is now. This was seems to be very important, it's all anyone ever talks about back where he's stationed at. Even on their small radios they hear about places being evacuated and innocent people dying. That is when Calum really starts to question what he's doing here but he knows that there's no turning back from this now. They've come too far to just turn and leave. Even so, Calum hopes that this war ends sooner rather than later.

Name: Zylphia Withers

Pet Name: Garnet

Age: 16

Role: Daughter

Bio: Garnet is a well to do young lady in her beloved home town. She belongs to one of the local well to do families as some would call it. Believe it or not Garnet believes in the women's rights to work. She herself likes to spend time working in one of the local hat shops. Many would consider her scandalous for some of her ideas regarding women and their rights. Most of the locals just laugh off her silly notions about women's rights saying it's just because she is young and wishing to be rebellious. Many only see her a air headed young girl who just needs the right man to reign her in. However Garnet unlike most middle class women and poor women is highly educated and well versed in law something that most men find appalling in this day and age. Many of the local men don't find her silly notions so amusing as many others do. To some it's rather insulting that a women dare compare herself to a man, or dare to correct one.

Name: Seth Lafayette
Age: 33
Role: Enemy Commanding General
Bio: Seth is one of the youngest commanding Generals. He has a brilliant mind in more areas than just combat and war. Unlike most of the upper crust he himself is laid back and well liked among his men. He doesn't always see eye to eye with his superiors and their end goals. However he does his best and tries to keep true to himself even if it means going against his superiors sometimes. For the most part he is a well educated sensible man who values the importance of rules and morals. It is very rare for him to go against the orders given to him. But on rare occasions he will defy them if they class with his personal morals or beliefs.

Lucian let out a deep sigh as he read the newspaper, "It says here that the men are getting closer to us." he informed his wife who was preparing breakfast. "You know what this means don't you? It means that everyone is going to talk about this and probably plan on moving farther. I don't blame them, but I don't think moving farther away is the solution." Lucian commented and shrugged his shoulders. "You know, I wonder what Zylphia will say when she reads this." he muttered and frowned. She was getting very vocal and rebellious lately and he didn't know what to do with her anymore. His wife insisted it wasn't anything too bad but he begged to differ. People were talking and it was starting to look like they were bad parents for letting their daughter speak her mind like this. Maybe she did need to get married, maybe then she would forget all these crazy ideas. Finding someone to marry her wasn't going to be easy though, he was sure all men young men wouldn't want to marry her after hearing her crazy ideas.

Phoebe listened to her husband and frowned, "What's wrong?" she asked him. "They are?!" she gasped and looked down breakfast she was making for her family. "Oh dear I don't blame them either but I agree, if we leave they will reach us eventually. We will run out of places to run to." she explained and checked on the biscuits. "I don't know what she will say but I do know she will say something that you will not approve of. "I hope she stops with this silly ideas of hers, I miss our little girl sometimes you know." Phoebe admitted and smiled. "She really was a wonderful surprise. Perhaps that's why she's the way she is. Our little Zylphia was a surprise to us and she will always be a surprise to us. We should love her no matter what." Phoebe explained and held up a hand before her husband could speak. "I know you love her, but you must accept her the way she is. I know it's hard but we have no other choice." she informed with a nod of her head as she started on the coffee and focused again on the breakfast she was making.

How many days did today make in total? He stopped counting after thirty days, he had to focus if he wanted to live. Calum polished his weapon as he sat in his trench while the others got ready to advance. He was heard that under general's orders they were supposed to go forward until they were ordered to stop. "Kill any who get in your path." their general had said. These words were already branded into his head, killing wasn't something new to any of them. The question was never 'who do we kill?' it was now 'who else do we need to kill now?'. War, Calum was never going to fully understand what that was. All he knew was that it was loud and very messy.

Zylphia froze as she heard her parents talking just in the other room. She had stopped in mid step in the lonely hall way hearing their voice and what news they brought of the outside world. She frowned as she hung he head. So it was true her father and mother really didn't approve of her supporting women's right to work. However at this current time she didn't feel that even mattered anymore. Hearing about the war made her shutter. She had never really known warm but from what people had told her at the hat shop the war was something to escape if you could. So many people had died and no one even knew why the other side was attacking. However rivers of blood where left in their wake. Or that was what the customers where saying. Each day new faces but worse stories. She had quit her job at the hat shop afraid of damaging her fathers reputation.

It wasn't the first time she had heard from her mother that she should stop her non sense. Her father had given her so much and with all the gossip around town she figured it was time to conform. Hearing her father's words only made her sadder as she stood there. He really was disappointed in her. She was their disappointment after all. Many had made fun of her for not being married but with the war most of the men who had fancied her left already. They had been smart to move far away. Her father wasn't the smartest man by any means but it wasn't her place to tell him that. Some of the other men had tried but he of course was as stubborn as ever.

She had changed from her cleaning dress into her beloved cream colored dress. It was very ornate and was decorated like that of a princess rather than just a simple lady. However she wasn't just any lady. Unlike most of the population her family was well off even if her father didn't see it that way. They had more money in their banks than most kings did thanks to her fathers hard work. She had fixed her lovely green hair in soft curls that cascaded down her slim frame. She had painted her lips to look even more like a stunning doll than a living girl. She wore her beloved Garnet jewels throughout her outfit and hair. She knew that this would make her parents happy to act the roll of the Lady she was to be instead of trying to work and help the poorer women of their town.

Zylphia slowly made her way into the kitchen as she bowed respectfully to her parents making sure to curtsy. " Good Morning mother, Good Morning father." She said in her sweet little voice hoping that they would be happier seeing her dressed like a lady instead of a business merchant. " I have already cleaned the house this morning and made the beds. I also feed the animals and tented to your garden. I wasn't sure if the staff would be here today. The rumors of war have made people here skittish. Lady Dorian said that her entire staff had the nerve to just up and leave with not so much as a thank you! She was very infuriated. She had came earlier this morning to try and buy out our staff from you father. I told her that was not the way for a Lady of any house to act and that I couldn't speak for you. I told her if she wanted any business deals that her husband should come and speak with you. Business is handled by the heads of the family. I hope you wont be to made at me. I figured while I was up to go ahead and do the chores just encase that wicked women tried to undermined you Father. I'm sure you'll get a note from Mr. Dorian apologizing for her behavior. " She said as she rose and walked over to help her mother with the chores. " More Coffee Father?" She asked as she poured him a fresh cup and started helping her mother in the kitchen.

Seth unlike most Generals marched with his men. If his men had to lay on the ground then he laid with them. If they ran into a fight he ran with them. No matter what his men did he was always with them and among them. It was something that some of his higher ups found odd about him, and slightly offensive. They believe he should be separate from the men however he felt different about it. He hadn't understood the orders that had been given to him. There didn't seem to hardly be any resistance here so why did they need to kill so many. This felt more like revenge for something instead of a fair fight. The people didn't even try and run anymore. He had seen more than enough blood to last him his entire life. It had been made clear to him to obey the orders being sent down or pay with his own life. Something about this war didn't add up.

He walked through the ranks of his men as he came to a stop by one of the newer members who he had picked to join his company. " Ah yes, Calum MacFarland isn't it? " He asked as he tried to give the man a friendly smile. However it was easy to see how this war was beating him down inside and out. " You look like the rest of us feel. War turn boys into broken men almost over night. " He said as he peered out looking at the sleepy town not far from them. " I will be honest I'm not looking forward to this. This should be a easy siege for us there is no resistance here so I don't expect any bloodshed witch would be a nice change of pace. However I wouldn't take my guard down. There are resonances here that will help us in our campaign. Once we have it under our control our orders are to maintain this area and to break off into two companies. One will stay here the other will head further inland. " He said as he sighed looking at the dreamy town. " I remember a time before all of this was normal. There are some days I wonder if it will every go back to that." He said as he fixed his hat and started walking towards the front.

" Listen Up men our orders are to take this town by any means necessary. Our objective is to secure this town and defend it. Once we have control of this town we will procure the heads of all the local families. We will gain their corporation through and means necessary. Every one knows their jobs for this task. I expect your full corporation. I would prefer there to be no blood shed but this is war. And war is hell." He said as the man all gave off their battle cry upon hearing it. He gave a wicked smile as he grinned hearing them. " Alright then lets get this over with men! " He said as his men suddenly mobilized into their teams and started to head down to the town.

Lucian smiled, "Of course I love our little girl. I do believe I show her how much I love her every day." he answered. Accept her? Well it seemed like that was their only option at the moment. Lucian continued to read the paper but looked up when he heard his daughter descend the stairs. "Good morning Garnet, sweetheart." he said. Lucian was surprised to see what she was wearing, a lovely dress, not her usual attire. "Yes, well we cannot blame them. I was just telling your mother that it says here that the soldiers are getting closer now. Who knows, they might be walking among us tomorrow or kicking down the doors." Lucian commented. He was honestly worried for his family, he had to protect them at all costs even if it meant he had to die doing it. Hearing about Lady Dorian's staff, he shook his head. "The nerve of that woman." he said quietly. "Thank-you sweetheart, I'm not mad at all you did the right thing in telling her that. I look forward to that note from Mr. Dorian." he said and looked up at his beautiful daughter. "Please and thank-you sweetheart." he said and took a small sip while it was still pipping hot.

Phoebe smiled at her daughter, she looked very lovely in the dress she was wearing. "You are looking lovely as ever. Though I do wonder why the sudden change Garnet?" Phoebe asked curiously while working on the breakfast. "Garnet would you be a dear and set the table? Breakfast is close to being ready." she said and quickly checked on the biscuits before taking them out of the oven and placing them in a bowl to place in the center of the table. "Lucian, I do not think they would kick down the door. They will surely knock won't they?" she asked. "Perhaps if they are in a good mood love." he replied honestly as he continued to read his paper.

Calum looked down at his hands, they had dried blood splatters on them and he even had some on his face. The last raid was extremely messy, he hadn't hesitated though to kill the people. It was as if he was a robot, just following orders like routine without even thinking about holding back. What bothered him more was that he didn't even feel bad after killing so many people. It had really just become routine. Hearing some footsteps come to a stop in front of him, Calum looked up to see the general standing there smiling at him. What was there to smile about? "Yes Sir." he answered. "I'm sorry sir, but don't let my look fool you; I"m ready for anything that comes up." Calum answered. Of course he was ready. Yes he wanted to sleep for a while but maybe he could get some sleep later after they reached their destination. Calum stood from where he was sitting and looked over at the small town they were headed to next. He didn't say anything, only listened and watched the general walk off, it seemed he wasn't the only one who hated this war.

Calum approached the large group of soldiers and tried to scratch off the dried blood from his cheeks but knew he needed water for it to come off easier. So they had to secure and defend the town after capturing it, sounded easy. They needed all the cooperation of as many wealthy people as they could afford to get, it would make things a lot easier. There would be bloodshed, there always was bloodshed but maybe this time there would be less than the last time. making sure he had his weapons, Calum quietly followed them towards the town.

" Of course mother." Garnet said as she hurried and sat the table as she was asked to do. She fixed herself a cup of milk along with her mother as she looked down at the sink. The dishes where rattling ever so slightly. She thought it was strange and then heard gun shots as she peered out the kitchen window. Her eyes widen as she heard screams then another round of gun shots. She dropped her cup of milk into the sink as she stared outside hearing the screams. She turned suddenly as she heard their front door burst open. In a matter of moment armed soldiers where surrounding them. She was surprised as one of the men step forward and spoke. " Your presence is required at the town square. We will escort you. If you try to run or do anything other than walk and act appropriately you will be shot. " The soldier said as he gave the orders for Garnet and her family to start walking. Suddenly Garnet was surround by three guards to escort her to the town square. She acted like a lady instead of giving into fear. She walked to the town square with her head held high as she waited with the others that had been gathered.

She noticed that none of the poorer people had been gathered only the richer families had been bought here. It was strange she thought as she saw the other people of the town being forced to stay into their houses. She wasn't sure what this was about she had never been through a war. But it looked like now she was going to . She turned her head as she saw a man dressed in a fancier outfit than the other soldiers appear. From how the soldiers acted he assumed he must be their boss and the one in charge of giving them their orders.



Seth was surprised at how many people did resist them. He frowned at all the blood as he made his way to the town square. He had given the orders to find the wealthier families and bring every member to the town square. He knew that he would have to have them on his side to get things done around the town. He waited till all the members of each family where present then moved to the front of the group to speak so they could see him. " I am General Lafayette. From this day forward you are now under our control. You will work for us and obey our rules. I have gathered you here because you are the wealthier families of this area. To ensure that I'll have your corporation I have included all of your family members for this conversation. From this time forward you men will be the government here and will elect one man from the wealthy families gathered here to act as governor for all people here. All of you will be responsible for teaching the rest of the populous here their new rules and rights. If you obey our rules and act correctly no one will be shot. However disobey and be killed. As of now you will cater to us by finding suitable lodging for all my men, food, and medical care. You will all help in this new reality of yours. Children can be used in fields for farming and daughters can be used for nurses and cooks. " He said as he looked around seeing how the people reacted.

Phoebe noticed her question wasn't answered, her daughter probably just didn't want to answer that question right now. She didn't push it, she just worked on serving breakfast for her family and frowned when she heard gunshots. Her husband was quick to look out the window. "They're here. They arrived sooner than we thought." Lucian said. "So what do we do?" she asked. "We do as they ask us to. These people are armed and won't hesitate to kill us if we don't do as they say." her husband warned her. Phoebe frowned and looked to her daughter who was obviously frightened. "It's okay Garnet, we'll be fine." she whispered. At that moment their front door was opened and soldiers marched right into the house, and surrounded them. Listening to what they said, she looked to her husband and took his hand, following his lead and following the soldiers in silence.

It was depressing to see many people dead, one of her dear friends lay lifeless on the cold ground. How could people do this? Phoebe knew they were just following orders but why would someone order innocent people to be killed? War never made any sense to her. She snapped out of her thoughts though and listened to the man who was apparently the general.

The general spoke with such ease, it was surprising. It was as if he didn't think what he had just done was wrong. So they were all under this man's control, everything the general said made sense and Lucian knew no one was stupid enough to go against this man's orders, they valued their lives too much. So one man was supposed to pretend to be governor? Lucian knew this was going to be an extremely tough time for everyone but they had to tough through it all, running away only solved things temporarily. The people were silent, too afraid to say anything. Lucian himself didn't say anything, there was nothing that could be said. There were no questions that could be asked without possibly getting killed.

Calum looked over at the people who looked now like dolls or better yet, statues because no one moved. They didn't even move to look at one another, they just stared at the general as if in a trance. It was rather unsettling really. Ah yes, lodging. He guessed he wouldn't be sleeping out in the trenches tonight. He knew this was going to be hard on these people but if they just did their job everything would be fine, the general wasn't even asking for much. Calum wondered if the general would choose what soldier or soldiers would go with which families but he assumed that answer would come soon enough.

" You there come here what is your name?" Seth asked as he pointed out to Garnet. He bowed to her respectfully as he gently took her hand and kissed it a social standers demanded. He looked over the young women and smiled. " So you are one of the locals here? Tell me who your father is. Since no one here is willing to speak up." He said as he looked to the girl who looked like she didn't want to answer." Ah I see." He said as he gently turned facing the other holding onto the girl's hand. " Who's lovely daughter is this? Such a brave girl not wanting to tell on her father. Must really love her father very dearly. It would be ashamed if something happen to something so beautiful don't you think?" He said playing with one of her lovely green curls." He said as he looked at the other young women. " I believe that every father here would hate to see any of their children harmed am I right. So it's simple do as we ask and all the lovely dears stay safe. Now I think that you lovely lady would be perfect tending to housing and helping with nursing. Starting today you will serve me by keeping quarters clean and helping in the hospital. " He said as he turned looking to the building behind them. " This looks to be your building of government come with me my lovely. Since no one here has spoken up for you. I'm sure that you could manage to fetch files for me. If no one wants to tell me about this place than I'll find out what I need here. " He said as he turned to lead her inside.


Garnet stared at him not liking what he was implying. She could tell that things where tense and finally spoke up. " If you are wanting the people here to be friendly and do as you ask then you shouldn't threaten to kill them all the time. " She said finally speaking up. " The people here work hard and after what you did today no one is going to trust you. However if you promise to stop killing there are several inns here that are empty because of the war. There are more than enough rooms for you and your men. There is no reason to threaten people. " She said shyly as she waited for the man to strike her for speaking.

Seth turned as he looked at the young girl. He smiled as he played with one of her lovely green curls. " Ah so there is a voice of reason here after all. And so lovely smart as well I see. So I was right in choosing you. Very well the inns it is. And to think no father spoke up for such a smart and lovely dear. You know if no one wishes to claim you then you can stay with me and be my personal maid. " He said as he stared into the young girls lovely green eyes. " You look like a lovely doll I think that's what I'll call you. Our little Doll." He said smiling at the young girl.

Phoebe frowned and stepped forward, "My daughter will be no one's little doll." she said seriously. "She is very beautiful but my husband and I will not just hand her over to just anybody. I don't care who you are sir, but you cannot just come waltzing in here and think you can take whoever you want, b-because you can't!" she warned. Lucian sighed and shook his head, "Phoebe that's enough!" he yelled and looked at her. Phoebe looked back at her husband and then at the general. "My daughter speaks the truth. You cannot expect to get respect after what you have done and with the way you are treating us as if we are animals you can slaughter for fun. We will do as you say, but please refrain from threatening us this way." she said.

"If you are trying to court my daughter, this isn't the way to do it sir." Lucian said simply after pulling Phoebe back to his side and glaring at her to which she cast her gaze downward. "She is smart, sometimes a bit too smart for her own good but what can you do." he said with a smile. "If you wish for her to help you I suggest you treat her with respect. That rule applies to everyone else you want to help you. You must show us all proper respect before you can expect anything from us. That is all we ask." Lucian informed seriously.

" Court her? " The General said as he laughed and looked to her mother and father. " I assure you I have no intent such as that. I just needed to figure out who's lovely daughter this was. I figured by her dress and manners she was well loved. Since you spoke up you'll be in charge of the people here. I have no intent of killing anymore. If you can convince your people not to try and run and to do their jobs and keep to the nightly schedules I see no issues here. From now own no one will be out after eight at night. If they are they will be shot. Unless they have permission by myself or one of the captains." He said as he looked to Calum " You Calum right? Why don't you let Doll here show you and the others to one of the inns. Your group will be the first to wash eat and sleep. We'll go in shifts. Calum I put you in charge of little Doll's safety. Make sure no one harms her. I expect her Father will be busy through the evening getting everything set up. Make sure she is brought safely back to him when your up tonight to take over after your sleep. "

Garnet was surprised as she wondered who she was being traded off to like a toy. She looked to her mother and smiled warmly at her. She was happy that her mother had spoke up and happy that the General hadn't hurt her or her family. She looked to her father and then back to the man wondering what was up with him. She felt a little confused as she looked at him. He didn't seem like a bad man but how he went about things bothered her.

Lucian was in charge of the people it seemed, which meant he had a lot of work to do and less time with his family. As long as they were safe he would be fine in leaving them alone. Surely these soldiers would respect a married woman and her daughter while the man of the house was out. Hearing that the general had no intent of killing anymore didn't really make Lucian feel any better about the current situation. "Well I can promise you that I will try to make sure we all do our part here. I'm sure no one here wants to die so you shouldn't have any problems with them getting their jobs done." Lucian assured. The curfew was set pretty early but it was a good time, at least he knew his daughter wouldn't be out and about in the streets so late. Although he wasn't sure anyone would want to be out on the streets late at night when armed men were patrolling the streets.

Calum looked to his general and nodded. He didn't say anything as he listened to the man then looked at the girl by the nickname of 'Doll' then back at his general. "Yes sir." was all he said once his general had finished speaking. Sleep sounded a lot better than anything else right now. His eyes looked back to 'Doll' and he motioned for her to lead the way. "Lead the way, and don't try to run." he warned then motioned for his group to fall out and follow them to the inn. He was now in charge of her safety and he was supposed to bring her back to her home after he slept? How exactly was that done? Wouldn't it be best to take her home before he went to sleep?

Garnet looked at the man she was to escort to the inn. She nodded as she heard him. She slowly lead the group away from the square further near the edge of town towards the west. She came to a beautiful inn that was over three stories high. She open the door and went in having seen the owner dead out front. She frowned as she walked behind the front desk and pulled out the logs. She started pulling out keys handing them off to the soldiers. " It will take me a few hours to get enough food cooked for you all. All the beds have fresh sheets. If you want to go sleep I'll work on food for everyone. Don't worry I wont run. Besides I'm a lady of my word." She said meaning it.

Calum followed her in silence, he glanced back at her parents and nodded in respect as he and the other men followed 'Doll' to the inn she had spoken of. When they arrived, they hesitantly entered and walked to the front desk in a single file line. They took their keys and would head out to find their rooms. Calum looked at her, she really was quite a pretty thing but girls were the last thing on his mind at the moment. "Thank-you." he said to her after taking his key. "A few hours, well you have until we wake up ma'am. I trust you won't run, you will be killed if you're seen outside." he reminded. Sleep...that was what he planned on doing first. It wasn't like he had clothes with him to shower anyway but the least he could do was wash his face and hair which was what he would do after he got some sleep first.

Garnet bowed and nodded hearing what the man said. She raised her head seeing the dried blood on him. " Why not take a bath before you sleep and leave your dirty clothing outside of your room. I'll start washing them. I will have to go out back long enough to get water for it. But I shall not leave the property. I have no interest in being another corpse or target for you all to practice at. " She said meaning it as she turned writing in each room that she had given keys to. She wrote down how many men where there and then took her list and headed into the kitchen. She looked around seeing what she had that she could make meals with. She started writing down what she had and what she didn't have to start inventory. If she wanted to see her family again she had to keep the men here happy. Besides it would help her father to be responsible enough to take inventory and to see what she needed to keep this place running smoothly.

"A bath?" he repeated and instinctively looked down at his hands and then felt the dried blood on his face. "Right...I suppose I should then." Calum answered, his facial expression as serious as ever. "Good, I wouldn't want to use you as bloody practice. Especially if it can be prevented." Calum said and left to the room he was assigned. Some warm water would be good for his shoulder. He didn't like to tell anyone that he had hurt it before. It didn't hurt all the time, but when it did it was rather painful. Walking into his room and closing the door behind him, Calum undressed and neatly folded his clothes before opening his door a little bit, placing the little pile outside his room door, and closing it again. Calum then proceeded to walk into the bathroom and take a bath. The water had a slight red tint to it from the dried blood, he let out a deep sigh and washed his face.

Garnet worked hard pealing potatoes and cutting up carrots. She put together a large pot of potato soup for the men. She had formed some dough and left it to rise so they would have biscuits later with their meal. She left the pot to cook as she went around and picked up the clothes the men had left her. She spent most of the day working hard to wash and dry the clothes. By night time she had the clothes dried and folded back at each soldiers door. She had managed to get the soup done and the biscuits. She had put everything out in the dining room and had put all the plates and cups out along with pictures of water at each table. She was covered in dirt and flour. By this time she looked a complete mess from having worked so hard. Her hand was sour from the water and washing. However she said nothing as she herself felt faint from her hard work. She hadn't ate the entire day to afraid to. She walked to the front desk as she updated the book and rolled up her list she had made to give to her father. The men had started to wake and quickly went to eat.

Calum had enjoyed his bath and was glad to see his clothes all clean outside of his door. Quickly he got dressed and winced slightly as he pulled on his shirt. His shoulder hurt now which was just perfect. When he was dressed, he managed to take a small nap. It was very small but the bit of sleep he got was amazing, so much better than sleeping on the dirt like a dog. Calum yawned softly and looked at the time as he walked out of his room and to the kitchen were the others were already busy eating. He took his seat and grabbed his food, quietly eating it and wondering where 'Doll' was. She wasn't in the kitchen, maybe she was outside just breathing some fresh air after working so hard all day. Poor thing was probably tired too.

Garnet sighed as she took her list and closed the book. She slowly walked outside using the back door in the kitchen. She walked past the large tree in the middle of the back yard. She walked down to the river as she took a seat on the bank. She had been sitting there listening to the sound of the river, finding it rather calming. Part of her wanted to cry and think about the day but another part of her just wanted rest and peace. She sat there as she found her mind clearing of all thought just leaving her in peace as she soon drifted off to sleep on the soft sweet grass that grew this time of year near the river. She slept peaceful mainly from all the hard work she had done. The soft moonlight danced about her form as she slept under it being serenaded by the animals and river.

Calum and the men ate their meal, a few men talked about orders they were given and said a few jokes, trying to lift the depressing mood. War...it really changed you and how you thought of everything. Sometimes a simple meal like this meant so much more to them. When the men finished their meals, they stood getting ready to head out. "Alright men, we have our orders so let's not mess up." one started and turned to Calum. "Calum, you're in charge of the girl. Don't let her out of your sight understood?" he ordered. "Yes sir." Calum said and finished up his meal. "Alright, move out men." the soldier said and left with the others. Calum stood from the table and gathered the dishes. The least he could do was clean up after she had practically worked all day for them. Calum walked into the kitchen and began to wash them, wondering where the girl was since she wasn't in here and he hadn't seen her eating either. Maybe she really was outside. When he had finished washing the dishes, Calum headed outside and looked around for her. Looking around the backyard, he noticed she wasn't there. That was, until he noticed a figure by the river. Quietly, he walked towards it and was surprised to see it was her, fast asleep there. "Ma'am?" he whispered.

Garnet slowly open her eyes as she reached up pulling Calum down beside her. She smiled softly as she wrapped her arms around his neck and softly nuzzled him still only half awake. " Edward you finally home! Isn't the grass nice and soft. And the night breeze is so relaxing? Shh don't talk just listen to the music of the woods and river. It's so perfect." She said sleepily as she smiled. " No war no blood no pain just peace. I'm glad your hear." She said as she drifted back a sleep enjoying the cool night breeze and the lovely sound of the river. She loved the warmth coming from Calum's as she snuggled up against him.

Seth had taken over the building where the local government had once used. He had already sent word that they had secured the area and was going through some of the old records learning about the area and it's people. He had talked to his men and took reports on what they needed to change. He was impressed with the little Doll she had worked the entire day and did a wonderful job running the inn. He had apparently chose well in picking her. He wondered what he should do to help make this transition easier for the people and help his men.

Calum blinked in surprise when she pulled him down beside her. "Uhh...Ma'am?" he repeated but was quiet as she spoke. Edward? Who was Edward? Was he a past lover of hers? A friend? A relative? Calum didn't know and he was never going to ask. It was none of his business to ask her about her personal life. He watched her sleep with her arms around his neck still, she was obviously very tired after working so hard to make the men feel comfortable. "Sleep well Ma'am.." he whispered and looked up at the stars in the sky and enjoyed the subtle sounds of the nature surrounding them.

"So what do we do?!" Phoebe asked in a whisper. "We do what they say." Lucian said as he looked at the other people. "We ALL do as they say. Unless you want to be killed of course." he added. "First thing I suggest we all do is inform the other families about everything that has been spoken about just now. Everyone needs to be aware of these new laws and everyone needs to follow them. These men will not think twice before shooting us down so we have to be very careful and take their words very seriously." Lucian explained, meaning every word he said.

Garnet slept for at least a hour there with Calum. She slowly woke as she let go of him rubbing her eyes tiredly. " Edward?" She said almost child like trying to wake up. She sat up suddenly as she saw it was Calum backing away from him in fear. " I-uh....forgive me please don't kill me." She said as she bowed before him asking for forgiveness. She blushed not sure how she got there and even more upset that she had been so careless. She had just wanted to rest a little not wake up in one of the Soldiers arms. She frowned as she remembered her dream. She thought he was Edward her childhood best friend and the closest thing she had to a brother growing up. When she was upset he use to bring her to the river and spend hours with her here and in the forest not far from here. The two use to be really close until the war. He left without saying good bye and no one has heard from him since.

She slowly sat up as she frowned thinking about Edward. " I'm very sorry....I....when I was little my best friend and I would come here to pass time if one of us where upset. We would lay here on the bank and forget about our worries. I guess being here made me dream about the times we had been here before. I'm sorry for my actions. Please don't hurt me. I promise not to rest here again. It's late already I hope I wont get in trouble for being out after curfew. " She said softly as she wondered where Edward was. Everyone else said he was dead. She wondered how stupid she looked to the man in front of her.

Calum looked back at Garnet when she spoke and sighed softly. "No Edward here Ma'am." he said to her. He didn't understand why she was backing away from him, "Relax, I'm not going to kill you Ma'am. There is no need to kill you anyway. My job is to take care of you, not kill you. General's and comrade's orders." he informed. "You must have been very tired to be sleeping for so long. I understand though, you were hard at work trying to make us feel welcome and we appreciate that. When I saw you sleeping here I couldn't get myself to wake you up, so I let you sleep but well you obviously wanted company." he said honestly and with a shrug of his shoulders.

Seeing her blush, he only shook his head and looked out into the river. "Don't worry, nothing happened." Calum commented. Calum listened to her speak of this Edward fellow, so the two were close friends. "I won't hurt you. It is late though, I should go take you home. Your parents must be worried about you." Calum suggested.

"Oh.....yes sir." Garnet said as she slowly rose to her feet and dusted herself off. She freaked out for a moment as she looked around not seeing her list she had made. " Oh no!!!!! WHERE IS IT?????" She said in a panic tone as she felt through her different pocket. However she calmed down as she pulled out her list. " Oh..phew I thought I had lost it. " She said as she giggled softly and smiled. " Oh my I really am a air head sometimes." she said as she frowned a little thinking about her parents. " Oh....yes my parents." She said as she sighed softly not really wanting to go home. She felt strange when it came to them. " I was surprised when my parents even stood up. You see my father is very disappointed in me. I'm not the daughter he wanted or deserved. I was trying to be the perfect daughter today and well we see how that ended. I know my father is going to be upset with me when I get home for going along with the orders given to me instead of asking for a man to be put in charge of me. He seems to think that women shouldn't work or know about money or business. Most men do. All men want are wife's who smile and nod and agree with whatever they say. Why not get a dog or cat it's less work and less money you have to spend on them to keep them happy. " She said as she laughed softly thinking about men having pets instead of wife's.

Her smile faded as she thought about all the people that had died today and then looked to Calum remembering who he was as she went quiet suddenly. All traces of happiness left her face as she looked down at her list as she held it out to here. " Here are the list of items you need to runs this place and where to get them. Also listed is how many local's you need to run this place properly and effectually. I wrote down a list of names of young girls that could do good work and would work hard. So if you can promise that no harm will come to them. I also included a list of men to help as well. My father should be at home." She said as she turned and started to walk slowly towards her house making sure that Calum could easily catch up with her.

Calum rose to his feet and dusted himself off while she freaked out over something. He looked at her once she had calmed down and listened to her small ramble. He knew she was just being friendly and probably was happy to have someone to talk to but he didn't feel he was at liberty to talk to her. He'd have to ask his general about that since he didn't want to seem rude either. This girl was really something else, she didn't seem to have the best relationship with her parents which was understandable. She was probably in her rebellious phase. Calum decided to speak up,"Well Ma'am, you get a man in charge of you last time I checked. So he shouldn't be upset with you." he said simply. Her father was...well an interesting person.

Calum took the list from her in silence and looked it over. "I'll give this to my superior and talk it over with the others." he said seriously. Folding the list up, he slipped it into his pocket and followed Garnet to her house. He didn't think her parents hated her, parents could never hate their children. At least her parents were here, he had left his parents to join this war. Calum had only seen his parents three times since he joined the force. He had fought many wars but this one had to be the bloodiest one yet.

The people had been hard at work, informing the others about the changes that had taken place and now that it had gotten dark, everyone was inside their homes. Lucian wondered where his daughter was and sighed as he drank some coffee his wife had poured for him. "Where could that girl be?" he asked no one in particular. "Oh I don't know Lucian, but I'm sure she'll be home soon if she doesn't want to be killed. I mean, our daughter isn't stupid." Phoebe answered. Lucian only looked down at the newspaper from the morning. "She's a smart girl." he agreed.