I think I said at some point that I was never going to write about the thing that happens at the end of this story. And I still haven’t. Because I got sidetracked by messy emotional issues. As I am wont to do.
In any case, enjoy this story about Sterling, Knowles, and very polite disagreements.
*
Sterling looked at the neat pile of armor on his desk, fastidiously tied up in twine, shined to perfection. It reminded him of a serving tray of dishes, although lifting such a tray would require balance or skill, while this breastplate full of armor pieces looked very secure, if heavy. No loose ends.
“You’re leaving us?” Sterling repeated to Sergeant—well, former Sergeant Knowles.
“Yes, sir,” Knowles said, their posture absolutely perfect as always. They were wearing new armor, cheaper but newer, a chain shirt and some pieces of plate in amongst street clothes. They looked directly behind Sterling’s head, as always. Sterling wasn’t sure they ever looked him in the eye.
“We only just got you back,” Sterling said, half to himself. It would be nigh impossible to replace Knowles—why, that was precisely why Sterling had selected them for the mission to Belling. Based on Knowles’ report, Sterling had been exactly right to do so. But now…
“Apologies, sir,” Knowles said stiffly.