Demand that Brett Does His Job

You tell your partner that you will speak with Brett personally. She acquiesces to your decision, and, moments later, Brett has been brought to the small hut in which you are staying.

He is taller than you, but you are a bit wider at the shoulders, you think. If a fight broke out between you two, you are confident that you can best him. You expect there to be some disrespect in Brett's eyes, but you see none of that. Indeed, he looks at you with approval, and, yes, a bit of fear.

"You won't send the scouts out?" You begin.

"Not without proper protection, sir." He says, calmly. "It is too dangerous."

"I disagree." Then, "And I gave you an order."

Brett hesitates. His eyes don't meet yours. "Sir, I meant no disrespect."

"And yet, I am disrespected." You stand and stare at him until he meets your eyes again. "Anyone can be the leader of the scouting group, Brett."

He gets the hint. "I'll lead my men out immediately, sir."

You thank him for his service. When Brett has gone, your partner is back. She had seen Brett leave and notes to you that the man did not look pleased at being rejected. Before you can reply, she is already speaking again. "I think he had a point," she says. "About the protection."

"Don't take his side, Ellie. I've already made my decision."

A frown passes her face--it is the frown of someone who is debating whether to say something or just clam up. Ellie simply nods and leaves you to your devices.

An hour later, the scouting group is preparing to leave the village. A few of your people are there to see them off: mothers and fathers, and some lovers. You see Brett speaking with a much younger girl. They look alike. A sister, perhaps?

The scouting group leaves. You and the onlookers watch them until they disappear into the fold of trees. When you turn back, you notice that the girl who Brett had been speaking with is now glaring at you. She does not look pleased.