Blood And Thunder

Chapter 2

I know it's been a while since I worked on this story. I haven't had the inspiration nor any idea where to take it, but I think I have a good idea now.

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The sounds of a small breeze rocking the tent and the morning cicacadas saying today is going to be hot are both loud and annoying, it's almost impossible to focus on the instructor. He sounds both softly and demanding at once. I have been here for a little over a week now and it has not gotten any easier, it's constant training and deadlines all-day every day. Wake up when we say, go to sleep when we say, obey obey obey. It's very tiring.

"AREKU!" shouted Commander Z baring his sharp teeth, "ARE YOU LISTENING!?"
"Sir yes Sir!" I quickly replied. Saying this has become more of an automated reaction now, I'm still not listening.
"Really, then how about you stand up here and recite everything I said?" My ears perk up and I'm not listening.
"Uhm, i-"
"Exactly. what do you think would help you pay attention, cleaning the latrine?"
I don't say a word
"Yeah, I think that'll help. Instead of sleeping at 20:00, how about you clean every damn latrine here?"

I try to hold back a sniffle as my eyes start to gather tears. My body shakes nervously and uncontrollably making it obvious that I'm upset. Z took notice of me and started to berate me, I don't hear what he's saying, all I know is I don't like it.
"I think she's had enough, sir." States a voice in the crowded tent.
"Who said that?" Asked Z inraged.
"Axel, Rank C, sir," He spoke sternly yet softly, It was comforting, "with all do respect, she is clearly not ok, I think it would be in your best intrest to lay off her."
"I don't give a damn about your rank, what do you think gives you the right to talk to a superior like that!?"
"What gives you the right to berate her while she's trying to retain composure?"
"Do you want to clean the whole sector? Because that'd what I'm hearing" Z's boots kicked up dirt as he stomped close to Axel.
"That sounds better than having to listen to your incessant yelling."
Z raised his hand getting ready to backhand him, but stopped and lowered it.
"Get the hell out of my tent, Both of you, NOW!" Z screamed as he pointed twords the open flap of the tent leading back to the rest of the camp.
"With pleasure," Axel started for the door. He grabbed my arm and dragged me with him, "come on, this ass doesn't want us here"

My feet kept slipping and tripping over themselves as I tried to keep up with him. I finally looked up to see who this Axel person was. I saw a fairly nasty scar stretching from his temple to his cheek, his messy blonde hair covering up most of it.
"He's an asshole, I'd suggest not letting him get to you."
I just stared at him with no idea what to say, no idea what to do. I finally was able to keep up with him and stand on my own. Upon seeing this, he let go of me.

"Name's Axel, I got transfered here a bit ago. I'm glad I wasn't moved later, it seemed you needed my help."
"Yeah" I replied quietly.
"Listen, if he ever bothers you again, let me know. I don't care what happens to me, so long as he knows not to mess with you anymore."
"Thank you."
"You're welcome."