From: Ashley Williams (ashley.m.williams@edenprime.mil.sa)
Sent: June 17, 2183 22:03 UT
To: Sarah Williams (randori-girl@ward37.amaterasu.civ.pub)
Subject: Re: Hey sis

James left today. He’s been reassigned to one of the new Rapid Response Bases out in the Kepler Verge. Lucky bastard. It’s like the ancient west out there – pirates and slavers coming out of the Terminus Systems all the time. He gets to play the cavalry, riding out in frigates any time someone’s house gets burned down.

I made some speech about how he was a valuable asset to the squad and he better make us look good out there, blah blah. I suck at speeches. I was cribbing from something I read back in history class. I don’t think anyone noticed.

I’m going to miss him. Don’t tell anyone.

So you think James is cute, eh? Yeah, well, when you said I should “go for him” – not gonna happen, kiddo. See, we have rules about “fraternization.” You don’t do The Deed with your fellow troops, especially if they’re under you (in rank, perv). There’s all sorts of problems that can happen when two people in the same unit get together.

Let’s say your unit is in a tight spot. Some bug-eyed aliens are going to overrun the galaxy. They eat babies, smell bad, and don’t have elbows. Nasty. You’re told to guard the rear (the back, perv). To let everyone else escape, someone is ordered “hold this spot until we’re gone.” Someone has to be left behind. You think it’s going to be someone you’re sleeping with?

I’ve served with these guys for eight months now. Yeah, some of them make me feel tingly (and yeah, James was kinda scruffy-cute). I hope I never have to decide who lives and who dies. But if I have to, my decision can’t be muddled up by magic-sparkly-hearts-and-stars feelings.

Anyways, I’m gonna knock off here. I’ve got dog watch in a few hours. Want to get a shower and a meal before then. Talk at you tomorrow.

Ash

--
This message originated from an Alliance military network. It has been censored at transmission source for security purposes. Any reply may be read by military authorities.

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