Metal Birds

Chapter 29: Intercepted Letters

Dover, England, June 10th, 1940

"They're sending troops back?"

"Soon, yeah. Not too many, mostly newer guys."

"What for?"

Arthur sat, slumped in an oddly comfortable position with his tiny platoon. They weren't far from the castle, which was perched on the nearby cliffs like an etheral guardian. The castle, Dover Castle, faced out over the pale white cliffs of the English Channel, watchful eyes turned to France. Things had been rather quiet since the evactuation. Most troops had gotten trains to other cities and towns, clearing up the place some. Even then, it was still busy.

"Probably so we can try and get some ground back." He stated, absentmindedly drawing one of his wings onto his lap to start preening.

"With an advance like that? They didn't even have armour and we were fighting a losing battle."

"It's only a losing battle if we've decided we've lost it." Arthur huffed, and James turned, brow raised. His expression was incredulous for a moment, and Arthur just stared blankly back as that expression slowly formed into a small 'oh, yeah'.

They didn't need to be reminded that Arthur had faced centuries of combat. Arthur merely sighed.

"We just can't think about it badly. If we do, then we've already lost."

"Hm, true." Thomas hummed.

As this was said, William could be seen rounding the corner.

"Post is here."

There was a soft murmur of questioning, the group wondering if they'd received anything, and after a moment of William passing out the envelopes, Arthur found himself with three small papers in hand.

oOoOo

Dear Arthur,

I can't believe what's happening in France right now. I just want to make sure that you're alright. I also want to know if Francis is alright. I sent him a letter... I haven't received any news yet other than the attack.

I really want to help. If you need me, I'm here.

I'm sure you know there are already some troops in Britain and Belgium. I hope they've been helpful in defense. I'm sure things will have changed by the time you receive this letter, but all I can do right now is hope. Prime Minister King needs me here, but the moment I get the chance I'll be there. I have the proper training and everything, so I'm sure I'll be able to help you somehow.

I hope that you and your brothers are faring well anyway. I hope Francis and Bella and the others okay. This is all just so startling and worrying. I hope you reply soon, and we can get things in order, perhaps set up a phone call or something. I think hearing your voice would be the best assurance for me right now. I honestly shouldn't be worrying about myself. All I can do is worry about you though.

Remember, I'm here for you.

Sincerely, Matthew Williams

oOoOo

Dear Arthur,

Are you okay? Are you safe? Is everyone else safe?

Congratulations on the new Prime Minister. I heard he's pretty good. Things are going pretty good here. Things are getting a bit antsy out west, on the Pacific. With Kiku and all, things aren't necessarily peaceful. We've decided it would be best to cut oil supplies to Japan. Jett can vouch for me.