John had put his best uniform on. He was reporting to his regimental headquarters that morning. He still couldn't get used to the new rank on his arm. William St Claire had kept his word. A posting abroad for two months. Imperial garrison duty. No front line combat due to Injuries sustained in India. But that wasnt the best part. The part that surprised John the most is when a parcel arrived addressed to him with a different rank than before. For this last posting. John was Company Sargeant Major. A senior NCO.

This was the deal. John would serve overseas for 2 months and avoid a jail sentence that had loomed over him since his teenage years. Now 2 months. John was a free man and free to move on with Pippa.

With his papers in hand he walked towards there prearranged meeting in the marketplace. His buttons glistened in the daylight. His back was straight. His head was up. His uniform crisp and once again he walked with military bearing. John had his pride restored

John found a bench and took a seat. He watched the people walk past as he waited for Pippa