Muskets and Carbines

Chapter 7: Letters

Hannahsville, Pennsylvania. December 8th, 1860

Major Ryker smiles softly as he sits atop a small chair by his tent. He watched as a few of the dragoons were playing a ball game with some of the newly arrived Canadians. Blue clad dragoons running back and forth with the rifle green Canadians keeping pace. Men in a mix of colors watched from the sides. It was almost a rainbow of colors with all these different uniforms all mixed along the edges of the frozen dirt patch.

While there was little snow on the ground, the air was chilly and many of the men were wearing greatcoats. In the background men were continuing camp life in the large camp for the Army of Expedition.

Ryker looked back down at his papers and continued writing his letter.

Dear Mom

I Hope this letter finds you well. I received your last letter a few weeks ago. I haven't had much free time lately to sit and actually write back. I'm sorry if I worried you, but I'm doing fine. I also thank you for the new book you sent. It seems great for some of the sleepless nights.

I have heard from Grandpa and Grandma from Oil City. It seemed the invasion didn't reach them. Though I doubt Grandpa would let any man within a hundred yards of his house with bad intent. I know he is still as good a shot as I last visited.

Caden and the others are still doing good. I'm sure you already heard from the other nurses that many people were wounded in Franklin and near Deckards. I have only a few minor scratches and Caden is just a little banged up. Not many are left from both fights that lucky. Swords and all the other things these savages use do a lot of damage once you get up close with them.

Worry not though mom, it seems the Army finally got us a new toy. It's called a repeater, meaning it can fire much faster than our old carbines. There will be less chance of me getting my head smashed now. So I hope that can ease your mind.

We also got some new arrivals to the camp. Never have I seen a prettier parade of men than these scots. While their kilts and tall fur hats might stand out, they seem tough. The camp is a whole world of colors and accents now. We have men from all over the country, Canada, Britain, and even some Prussians.

There is some tension here and there but for the most part it seems everyone is getting along. I hope when we cross onto this new adventure we can see what lies on the other side. You remember all those stories of knights and monsters? Well I'm going off to fight those men in armor, but with something a little better than a sword.

Rook is still his grumpy self now that winter is here. He hates the cold just as much as you do. He sends his regards.

I also got promoted again now. I doubt I deserve it but we don't have many trained officer's left in the regiment still on their feet. A lot of boys are getting promoted lately, and a lot more new faces are taking spots that were occupied by others not too long ago. Both Caden and I are Majors now, with Scott in Command of the regiment. We are doing well so far, but only time will tell.

I don't know when I will get the chance to write to you again, but know that I will try to be safe. Try not to overwork yourself and stay safe at the nursery. I love you.

Your Son,

Thomas Ryker

Ryker puts the letter into an envelope and gets up. He finishes up in his tent before looking to send off the letter. A little bit of snow is now falling from the cloudy sky.

Antar, Crown Region. Deco 14th, 112 AP

The Capital of the Antaran Empire was a marvel in itself. Built on the connection of 3 rivers, which can double as both defense and easy transportation. It was in the center of the Mushica Plains, now the center of the entire empire. It was the beating heart and brain for the empire.