Here’s the introduction to “The Land of Ardon”, my first short story. I’ll post more as I write. My formatting got a bit messed up when I posted it on the blog.

Location: Plymouth, England.

“This rebellion has gotten out of hand!” Admiral Cadbury fumed as he paced back and forth in front of his desk.

“My men need more training,” I said as I rose from my chair.

“You mean your boys?” the Admiral sneered. “What they need is experience. They haven’t seen enough battle to know what to do when the cannonballs start blazing.”

“Respectfully Admiral, I don’t think they’re ready.”

“If I say your men will go into battle, they will go into battle. Do you understand me, Captain Thomas? I don’t like it when my orders are questioned.” Admiral Cadbury said with venom.

And this is why you will never win this war. 

“It will be done, Admiral,” I said through clenched teeth.

“Any more questions?” the Admiral asked in a tone that invited no answers.

“Now that you’ve aired your grievances, let’s look at the battle plan.” the Admiral said with a sneer.