False Peace
#7 of Underneath the Wars
Another planned section of the 'historical fiction' Written 2013
False Peace
The shift in power in America in 41m brought an official end to the war, but minor skirmishes continued. The American president had tried to use the same soldiers that were killing and destroying to instead help rebuild, but tensions were still high and confrontations between disgruntled civilians and the frustrated soldiers now ordered to help them were frequent.
In February, they finally received orders to stand down. They were to hold their position and facilitate a smooth return, making sure people got to theirown homes andnot someone else's, also taking stock of unclaimed property to be traced to relatives. It was tense, because the enemy was suddenly the ally and neighbors were under suspicion. Fortunately, there were few issues. Just having two armies watching seemed to keep looting to a minimum. A group of civilians set to the task of finding and identifying bodies. It was thought best if they were not recovered by friends and family.
There were long days of tense rest and waiting. The squad had to find ways to keep themselves occupied. Anika found relief in running, often joined by LCpl Johns or Lt Johan. After one such run, she came in to the sounds of LCpl Conner grunting and moaning. She followed them to find her laying on the floor, with LCpl Karvey on top of her. He was rubbing her shoulders and stroking her back, still avoiding the dark center of her scar. Her fur was beginning to recover her back. It was still thin, but promising.
Anika tried not to laugh, but still got their attention. Karvey jumped up and saluted, but she waved him down.
"Looks like you're healing well, with a little help."
"Oh, he's _really_good. You should try it," she picked herself up off the floor, casually grabbing her shirt.
"My back feels pretty good, but my feet could use a good rubdown."
The mouse looked worried, "Ma'am?"
Anika chuckled, "Don't worry, I'm not going to order you to rub my feet."
"I didn't mean to sound..."
"Relax, tend to your patient." Anika headed down the hall while Conner hugged and thanked Karvey before putting her shirt back on.
"I'll rub your feet if you rub mine," LCpl Johns was waiting in the hall.
Anika smirked at him, "This mother is going to take a cold shower and soak these feet."
"Let me know if you change your mind."
She closed the bathroom door on him.
...