Josephine

𝓔𝓹𝓲𝓼𝓸𝓭𝓮 59: 𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓡𝓮𝓾𝓷𝓲𝓸𝓷

May 20, 1979 

Donkin Courthouse, Nova Scotia District

The sky was a pinkish-purple as the sun began to dip below the horizon when I arrived at Donkin Courthouse. It appeared to have a party inside the courthouse, which was right across the way from the farmhouse where Governor Gouth's surrender was signed.

"This way your majesty," One of the two guards that were here to escort and protect me said.

I had verbally complained about that as I was meant to enjoy myself, and that usually did not involve being under the watchful eye of two golems.

I followed the two guards up the steps of the courthouse where a young man stood, I guess he was there to take names.

"Ah, hello! Welcome to the 13th Army reunion! May I take your names please?"

"We are not here for the reunion... she is..." One of the guards coldly replied.

They stepped aside to reveal me, I wasn't dressed formally, I didn't even have a crown on, but the soldier instantly recognized me and a warm smile crept onto his lips.

"Your majesty, I am glad you chose to celebrate with us tonight, I am Arnold Wellman, who wrote that letter,"

"It is good to see you again Arnold,"

I extended my hand and he shook it, a little awestruck.

"You remember me?"

"Of course! I remember the names of all those men on that campaign!"

He quickly crossed my name off the list with his pen.

"May I escort you in your majesty?"

The guards raised their hands.

"That is our job,"

Arnold nodded.

"Of course,"

He opened the door and the two guards flanked by my side as Arnold opened the door to the courthouse. It was stunning inside, the interior had been remodeled into a dining area and ballroom, at a nearby bar some men were bringing drinks to women, who I assume are their wives or girlfriends. As soon as I entered the room, every soul froze.

At least a hundred eyes bore down on me, almost all surprised to see me. I felt a little anxious, not as much as I would a few years ago, but still. Then one man, followed by another and another stood up and approached me.

"Your majesty, welcome," He said and delicately kissed my gloved hand.

"Hello Corporal Meyers," I replied.

He smiled, glad that I had remembered his name. He stepped aside as more men stepped forward.

They each kissed my hand and greeted me with praise and pride. Quickly the room returned to its former excitement and warm atmosphere with dozens of men, and even women greeting me. I had not heard such praise and respect and admiration since my coronation, fourteen years ago.

"Your majesty! Come sit with us!" A man called out.

I recognized him as Private Kevin Costner, a man just five years younger than I as far as I know. I walked over to his table, where he and his wife or girlfriend sat, along with two other soldiers. There was an empty seat across from Private Costner and I took it. I shed my coat and one of the guards took it and slung it over his shoulder.

"Your majesty, it is an honour to see you again," Costner stated, extending his hand.

"Likewise private,"