Redwall MUCK Forum

Sgt. Adrian,
Sb-Lt. Lossow,
and Mjr. Varus.

IC'ly this takes place in just before/after the LP left Redwall in September/October

A beautiful late-summer, early-fall afternoon. Major Varus Trinius Visurgis Swiftbuck is standing at one of the many windows of Great Hall, holding a parchment in his paws, and awaiting the arrival of two younger bucks: one, his son Adrian, and the other, one... He checks the document again. A "Lossow." Not familiar to the elder buck. He reads over the orders again.

A whirlewind of greetings, well wishes, congratulations, and farewells had swept the newly made Sub-Lieutenant Walter Lossow along hi time in Redwall. He had seen the abbey at a distance countless times, but only since the Badger Lord Ciocan arrive with his hares had the young hare been inside (sent as part of a detachment to greet the badger and upper officers who had come along). Lossow had reconnected with several old friends of his, many of whom he had not seen in at least three seasons. And now he was probably late - but he'd had to get his new uniform just right, and he pauses at every polished surface he spots to admire the silver epaulet on his right shoulder and bronze starburst on his collar. The saber was nice too - not quite made for him, but it was a gift given by one of the older officer's of the 68th who had acted as one Walter's mentors, and he was thankful for it. Finally, the young hare sees the major and quickly comes to stand before him with his boot heels clicking together as he makes a sharp salute.

"Sah! Sub-Lieutenant Waltah Sydney Lossow reporting fo' duty, sah!"

Adrian, on the other paw, has been speaking to Lord Ciocan in private for most of the morning, debriefing the extent of his and Monty's journey south and back again. The Badger Lord seemed especially interested in the adder-worshipping cannibal cultists in the ruins of Loamhedge. On exiting the guest room the badger was occupying, he'd been stopped by a younger Private to inform him that his father wanted to see him. So, dressed in his replacement dress uniform, he makes his way to Great Hall. Meanwhile, Varus doesn't even look away from the window yet. "At ease, Sub-Leftenant," he says, "Or ya'll bust a gasket..."

Lossow does relax, though only slightly. "Of course, sah." The excitement he feels at what he assumes is his first assignment is clearly visible from the way he rocks ever so slightly on his heels.

Varus humms, looking down at the parchment again, as Adrian arrives. "Sah," he says, considerably less wound up than the other, younger buck, whom he side-eyes. Varus finally turns from the window. "Sahgeant Adrian, you already know yahr ordahs, per yahr own wishes, won't be changin' f'r th' immediate future. 'Owevah, there's a slight... change t' yahr ordahs..." He looks at Lossow. "Sub-Leftenant..." he checks the paper again, "Lossow... Will be joinin' yahrself an' Corporal Montgomery..."

"Sah." There's a moment where Walter is visibly confused. He'd missed exactly what Adrian's assignment was. "Permission to speak?"

Varus raises a paw. "One moment." He looks at Adrian, who seems mildly aghast. "I'm afraid Sub-Leftenant Lossow will be yahr superiah, but you *do* 'ave th' more field experience." He looks back at Lossow, "And it is 'oped that y'll learn ta lissen t' yahr subordinates, Sub-Leftenant..."

"They're my patrol then, Sah?" Lossow vaguely remembers Adrian and Monty left all those seasons ago, and the realization of what he's been assigned to slowly dawns. "Oh." The word is quiet as it's choked out, but the junior officer somewhat bounces back. "Right, right, good Sah, very good!" It really wasn't, but he was smart enough to not say that in front of the major - or the sergeant who was rather intimidating, if Walter was being honest with himself. "And of course sah! I did pick up a few things with the 68th, of course, so I'm not completely helpless, eh wot?" He laughs, nervously.

Adrian side-eyes the younger buck, that is now inexplicably his superior. Varus clears his throat. "Technic'ly, yes. But, I remind y', lad, that Adrian 'ere is both oldah 'n' more experienced. Yahr bein' sent out with 'em in th' 'ope that y' pick up leadahship skills, wot."

Lossow dips his head. "Of course sah. Of course." He can't help shake the feeling its to get rid of him, however (he could've sworn he hadn't done that badly on his officer exams. Right?). "Well then sergeant," The younger hare offers his paw. "I'm Sb-Lt. Waltah Lossow, at you'h service - I don't suppose you remembah me from back at the mountain, but I was a few classes behind you'hs, I think, wot. And Monty."

Adrian sticks out his paw, too. And shakes. "Sahgeant Adrian Swiftbuck." He gives the paw a squeeze, as if to gauge the other buck's strength. "We'll get along fine," he lies smoothly. "An' I remembah yah."

When Walter feels the other buck squeeze he smiles, squeezing back just as hard. He's spent too long with old veterans to not be wary of mind games. "Of course. Though," he shrugs, forcing a chuckle, "I'd rathah hoped you didn't! Wasn't quite the best leveret student back then, if you understand me, sergeant."

Adrian looks at the other hare, as Varus notes the awkwardness. "Well, y' certainly seem t' 'ave grown up, though," Adrian replies.

"As have you!" Internally Lossow wincess. "Eh, I mean, you look like you've gone to hellgates and back, wot." That wasn't much better. At least now he's trying to be friendly. "Both you and Monty have plenty to tell, no doubt."

Adrian smiles. Is it genuine? "Aye, we do," he says. "We'll tell you, too..."

Now Lossow's worried. "Ah, yes, I'll look forward to it then."

Adrian releases Lossow's paw then, and he salutes. "Yes, Sah," he says. Military to the core, even if he doesn't care for the turn of events.

"Right then sergeant." Lossow returns the salute smartly, before turning to the major who has been no doubt watching their interaction the whole time. "Well, sah? Is there anything else?"

Varus hrmms, and nods. "Yes. Yahr 'eadin' north, per Adrian's original plan. Try not t' get yahrself killes, Sub-Leftenant."

Lossow nods, slowly taking it in. "Well then, I don't plan to." A beat as he realizes what the sounds like. "Die that is. Would nevah live it down, eh, sah?"

Varus doesn't chuckle. "No, y' wouldn't, Sub-Leftenant," he answers. Adrian, meanwhile, looks at the younger buck again, wondering how this is all going to work out.

Lossow is wondering much the same, an whether or not the sergeant will cause problems (or, worse, himself would cause problems). "Majah, sah, if that's all, might me and the good sergeant be dismissed?"

The old Major nods. "Yes, yahr dismissed..." He looks at his son. "Be careful out there... Come 'ome safe. We'll be leavin' Redwall in about a week..."

*   *   *

A week or so later...

*   *   *

It's a cool, overcast day in Mossflower, so most beasts at Redwall Abbey are choosing to stay indoors, as the nip of autumn enters the air. Newly-minted Sergeant Adrian Swiftbuck is no exception. He's been doing his level best to avoid a certain younger Sub-Lieutenant the past couple weeks or so, both before the Long Patrol left, and now after, too. Does his father not trust his judgment enough that he felt the need to send along a Leveret-sitter?

That sub-lieutenant, for his part, wasn't trying to avoid Adrian. It just happened that way. Walter could tell the sergeant wasn't all that fond of him, though he's become more and more certain that the reason had more to do with what the junior officer represented more than Lossow's actual character. Or so he hoped. He didn't mind the distance between the two of them, especially since that painfully dreadful first meeting, but now... Lossow was looking for the sergeant and so far has had very little luck asking the abby beasts.
"You seen Adrian around? The tallah hare, you know?"
A beat as the order member answers.
"OF COURSE he bloody well isn't me, obviously."
The outburst from Lossow carries over the abbey grounds.

Adrian ear-perks. Yes, he certainly heard that. He moves to stand, to try and flee into a deeper part of the Abbey, but the military hare in him makes him stand his ground. He has to face Lossow sooner or later. Better make it sooner. He moves toward the door to Great Hall, and scans the grounds, to pinpoint where the other buck is coming from.

It came from the orchid where despite the weather a few abbey beasts could be seen gathering what fruit is ripe, as well as the hare Adrian dreads to meet.

"Right, right." Lossow barely looks back at the mouse he was talking to - or the rather cheeky and frankly RUDE remark from the middle aged and scar covered squirrel with a northern accent lounging in the tree branches above him. "Thank you." The sub-lieutenant says withers much dignity as he can muster and makes his getaway. He passes by the great hall at first not noticing Adrian looking out from the great doorway, but something makes him pause and turn. "Ah. There you are."

Adrian stands straighter. "So I am," he replies, "...Sah." He looks at the other buck. "You wished to see me...Sah." Whatever his feelings, he won't let it be said that he's insubordinate... Yet. "I am all ears...Sah."

There's a moment or two where Lossow simply observes Adrian, trying to judge his mood. "Right, sergeant, at ease..." He finally says. "I shall cut to the point - prepare you'h subordinates be ready to leave Redwall at dawn two days from now, and take that as a formal ordah, sergeant."

Adrian mhmms. As he suspected. "Two days, sah. It... Will be done." His face is unreadable, but there is an unspoken tension. As if the Sergeant feels it would have been better to do something differently. He leaves that unvoiced. "Pahrmission t' speak freely, Sah..."

"Of course." The words are cordially enough but Lossow can't shake the feeling of caution around Adrian. "What do you 'ave to say, sergeant?"

Adrian relaxes, slightly. "We're still 'eaded north, Lossow. Got a bit of a personal mission from mah fathah, an' I won't let ordahs or missions, or even superiah officahs get in th' way o' that. This is a personal mattah, an' I won't discuss it furthah."

There's another bout of silence as Lossow takes in the statement. "Fine then sergeant - I was ordahed north same as you- but let me say something of my own: you may do what you will fo'h this personal mattah, but mark my words well." The sub-lieutenant stands straighter. "If you'h ordah the othahs into 'eedless dangeh fo'h this personal mattah I will step in. Am I understood, sergeant?"

Adrian bristles slightly, but he nods. "Well undahstood, Sah." He knows he's taller than the Sub-Lieutenant. To give this moment to the younger buck, however, he slouches, slightly. He's not ready to needlessly antagonize his superior officer, just yet. They have days of walking ahead to take care of that. The older buck relaxes again. "Pahrmission t' still speak freely..." He doesn't wait for the reply. He has to get off on at least something of a good footpaw with this officer. "I will obey any an' ev'ry direct ordah, Sah. I will also nevah question yahr authority in the presence of the lowah rankin' membahs of our pahty. 'Owevah..." He holds out his right paw, "I would like t' offah mah leadahship expertise *in private*, whenevah necessary." His mother always said, 'You catch more flies with honey than vinegar.'

"Well..." The sub-lieutenant is still cautious. "I was expecting that, sergeant, so carry on." Not completely true, but Lossow doesn't think Adrian needs to know that. Or why. "As I don't 'ave much else to say besides prepare fo'h the trip, I'll take my leave of you - unless there's anything more you wanted to say?"

Adrian is disappointed when Lossow doesn't shake paws. He was hoping the open gesture would defuse the tense start to their working relationship. He doesn't express dismay, however, and just drops his paw. "All I c'n say is that I... look forwahd t' servin' undah you, Sah." It's a lie. He will chafe at losing the leadership position, but he has to salvage this somehow, or they'll all be miserable the next several months. He mustn't push too hard, though.

Lossow , for his part, had completely missed the offered paw until after Adrian drops it. Mortified with his face blazing crimson he offers his paw. "Sorry 'bout that." He mutters sheepishly and as quietly as he can while still being able to be heard. Louder, he adds, "I look forward to serving with you as well, Adrian!"  The sub-lieutenant still seems horrified at himself and will try his best not to bolt from the scene in embarrassment. "Right, right." Whether or not the older hare does shake his paw, Lossow takes a step back with the words. "I'll be going now - be seeing you sergeant!"

Adrian does take Lossow's paw, and gives a firm shake, but it's not unfriendly. He doesn't smile, or laugh at the younger hare's embarrassment. "Right, Sub-Leftenant." It wouldn't do for the subordinate to use his superior's first name. "I'll get th' othahs ready..." And he disappears back into the Abbey.

title is from an old folk song "twa recruitin' sergeants"

Uniforms!
So I've been cooking this up for a while now and the main contents of this post are changes I'd like to make to this page on the wiki: https://www.rwmuck.org/wiki/Long_Patrol_Uniforms
This isn't completely finished yet so take it as a WIP as well as an opportunity to give suggestions - I also am going to be adding images of the uniforms via editing at a later time.

Now, to explain some terms that I used a lot (and the definitions aren't easily found via web searches):
Regimental colours/colors refer to the special colours that each regiment in the Patrol has - that appear on the facings (the cuffs, collar and sometimes jacket hem). For example, I've asked Varus a few times about this and his suggestion for the main regiment (meaning the one that he and Terrence and Greg and Dom etc... are all IC'ly a part of) is a shade of blue, and honestly I've become fond of the idea.

Other regiments have other facing colours: for instance, the Homeguard that is vaguely controlled by Quinten (or at least mentioned by him the most) will have their own (which I think Quinten should pick), though I think that both the main regiment and homeguard should have the primary colour of a khaki/beige to better blend in with the beach around Salamandastron.
Another example of regiment colours is what I admittedly already have Lossow wearing in game: for the 68th Fur and Foot Fighting Patrol Regiment (which has been vaguely mentioned in RPs up to this point and I really really want them to be a thing), the primary uniform colour is a deep green for Mossflower Woods with Scarlet Facings for Redwall Abbey (this could also work really well as the Resident Redwall Hare's uniform colours too).

---

Anyway, here's what I suggest replaces the wiki uniform page:

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All hares of the Long Patrol are issued at least two uniforms, save for recruits: one field uniform (for practical use in the day to day business) and one dress uniform (for ceremonial use for formal events). The only regulated difference between the two uniforms is that the dress uniform's primary and facing colours are inverted from the field uniform's (i.e; if the field uniform had the primarily beige with red facings, the dress uniform would be primarily red with beige facings) and knapsacks or any other sort of bags are prohibited for dress uniforms for NCOs and below.

Field Uniforms
Rank and File

Recruit
The uniform is a fairly plain style tunic dyed solid beige with neatly folded back facings (cuffs and collar) undyed and devoid of any regimental colors. The shoulders are fairly flat with little cloth bars seated there to give it more of a formal look. A single line of five brass buttons run down the center, with a black leather belt with a brass buckle at the waist between the fourth and fifth button. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of black boots over which puttees are wrapped from ankle to below the knee.

Fighter- Private
The uniform is a fairly plain style tunic dyed solid beige with neatly folded back facings (cuffs and collar) dyed the regimental colors. The shoulders are fairly flat with little cloth bars seated there to give it more of a formal look. A single line of five brass buttons run down the center, with a black leather belt with a brass buckle at the waist between the fourth and fifth button. A simple canvas knapsack is slung on the back with black shoulder straps to carry the private's field kit. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of black boots over which puttees are wrapped from ankle to below the knee.

Runner
The uniform is a fairly plain style tunic dyed solid beige with neatly folded back facings (cuffs and collar) dyed the regimental colors. The shoulders are fairly flat with little cloth bars seated there to give it more of a formal look. A single line of five brass buttons run down the center, with a black leather belt with a brass buckle at the waist between the fourth and fifth button. A simple canvas knapsack is slung on the back with a single black strap from the right shoulder to the left side, just above the belt. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls. The lack of boots in warm weather allows for the runner to take advantage of the better grip of their hare feet on the ground. The overall legs are specially hemmed to be comfortably loose for running and are kept tight and out of the way with puttees wrapped tightly from ankle to below the knee.

Healer
The uniform is a fairly plain style tunic dyed solid beige with neatly folded back facings (cuffs and collar) dyed the regimental colors. The shoulders are fairly flat with little cloth bars seated there to give it more of a formal look. A single line of five brass buttons run down the center, with a black leather belt with a brass buckle at the waist between the fourth and fifth button. A simple canvas knapsack is slung on the back with a single black strap from the right shoulder to the left side, just above the belt. Sometimes seen on the belt, depending on the wearer's preference, are attached pouches and such to hold various herbs and bandages. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of black boots over which puttees are wrapped from ankle to below the knee. A band on the left arm in the color of the regiment with a red cross on it shows that this is the uniform of a healer.

Non-Commissioned Officer Uniforms
Corporal, Sergeant, Colour Sergeant, Master Sergeant
The uniform of NCOs is the nearly the exact same as their given specification with the addition of their rank on the left sleeve. 
Starting at the Sergeant rank, a scarlet sash wraps around the waist over the belt.

Commissioned Officer Uniforms
At this level hare officers are given specially tailored uniforms, forgoing the NCOs' and rank and file's more simple uniforms for something that better represents their rank and authority.

Ensign
The uniform is a double-breasted military style jacket dyed solid beige with neatly folded back facings (cuffs and collar) dyed the regimental colors and highlighted in silver lace. A single Golden or Silver Epaulet on the left shoulder show junior officership. Two lines of ten brass buttons run down the center with a black leather belt and matching brass buckle at the waist covered by a scarlet sash. A brass gorget with the symbols of the regiment and battalion hangs from about the neck. A black cross belt from the right shoulder down to just above the sash holds a small black pouch to hold stones, spyglass, or papers. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of high black hessian styled boots. A lack of rank insignia and officer’s saber shows that this is an Ensign.

Sub-Lieutenant
The uniform is a double-breasted military style jacket dyed solid beige with neatly folded back facings (cuffs and collar) dyed the regimental colors and highlighted in silver lace. A single Golden or Silver Epaulet on the right shoulder show junior officership. Two lines of ten brass buttons run down the center with a black leather belt and matching brass buckle at the waist covered by a scarlet sash. A brass gorget with the symbols of the regiment and battalion hangs from about the neck. A black cross belt from under the right shoulder Epaulet down to just above the sash on the left side holds a small black pouch to hold stones, spyglass, or papers. Pinned into the cross belt at the center is the company’s badge. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of high black hessian styled boots. Starting with the Sub-Lieutenant rank, an officer’s saber and scabbard hangs at their side.

Lieutenant
The uniform is a double-breasted military style jacket dyed solid beige with neatly folded back facings (cuffs and collar) dyed the regimental colors and highlighted in silver lace. Golden or Gold Epaulets on both padded shoulders show officership.  Two lines of ten brass buttons run down the center with a black leather belt and matching brass buckle at the waist covered by a scarlet sash. A brass gorget with the symbols of the regiment and battalion hangs from about the neck. A black cross belt from under the right shoulder epaulet down to just underneath the sash on the left side holds a small black pouch on their back to carry stones, spyglass, or papers. Pinned into the cross belt at the center is the company’s badge. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of high black hessian styled boots. An officer’s saber and scabbard hangs at their side.

Captain
The uniform is a double-breasted military style jacket dyed solid beige with neatly folded back facings (cuffs and collar) dyed the regimental colors and highlighted in gold lace. Golden Epaulets on both padded shoulders show full officership.  Two lines of ten brass buttons run down the center with a black leather belt and matching brass buckle at the waist covered by a scarlet sash. A brass gorget with the symbols of the regiment and battalion hangs from about the neck. A black cross belt from under the right shoulder epaulet down to just underneath the sash on the left side holds a small black pouch on their back to carry stones, spyglass, or papers.  Pinned into the cross belt at the center is the company’s badge. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of high black hessian styled boots. An officer’s saber and scabbard hangs at their side.

Major
The uniform is a single-breasted military style jacket dyed solid beige with neatly folded back facings (cuffs, hem, and collar) dyed the regimental colors and highlighted in gold lace. Golden Epaulets on both padded shoulders show full officership.  Three lines of ten brass buttons run down the center with a black leather belt and matching brass buckle at the waist covered by a scarlet sash. A golden gorget with the symbols of the regiment and battalion hangs from about the neck. A black cross belt from under the right shoulder epaulet down to just underneath the sash on the left side holds a small black pouch on their back to carry stones, spyglass, or papers. Pinned into the cross belt at the center is the battalion’s badge. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of high black hessian styled boots. An officer’s saber and scabbard hangs at their side.

Colonel
The uniform is a single-breasted military style jacket dyed solid beige with neatly folded back facings (cuffs, hem, and collar) dyed the regimental colors and highlighted in gold lace. Golden Epaulets on both padded shoulders show full officership.  Three lines of ten brass buttons run down the center with a black leather belt and matching brass buckle at the waist covered by a scarlet sash. A golden gorget with the symbols of the regiment and battalion hangs from about the neck. A black cross belt from under the right shoulder epaulet down to just underneath the sash on the left side holds a small black pouch on their back to carry stones, spyglass, or papers.  Pinned into the cross belt at the center is the regiment’s badge. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of high black hessian styled boots. An officer’s saber and scabbard hangs at their side.

General Staff
At this level, while officers' uniforms are still issued (and made with the nicest fabric the Patrol can afford), the uniform becomes a guide rather than a strict rule.

Brigadier
The uniform is a single-breasted military style jacket dyed a colour of the brigadier’s choosing with neatly folded back facings (cuffs, hem, and collar) dyed yellow and highlighted in silver lace. Golden Epaulets on both padded shoulders show full officership. Three lines of ten silver buttons run down the center with a black leather belt and matching silver buckle and a shoulder sash the colour of the brigadier’s choosing which reaches from under the right shoulder epaulet down to the left hip are partially covered by a scarlet sash about the waist. A golden gorget with the symbols of the brigadier’s brigade hangs from about the neck. Two small, golden ropes tip down from the right shoulder into a little pocket on the chest, giving a small curve, and on the opposite side of the chest over the heart is a silver pin in the shape of a badger's head showing the rank of Brigadier. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of high black hessian styled boots. An officer’s saber and scabbard hangs at their side.

General
The uniform is a single-breasted military style jacket dyed a colour of the general’s choosing with neatly folded back facings (cuffs, hem, and collar) dyed a colour of the general’s choosing  and highlighted in gold lace. Golden Epaulets on both padded shoulders show full officership. Three lines of ten gold buttons run down the center with a black leather belt and matching gold buckle and a shoulder sash the colour of the brigadier’s choosing which reaches from under the right shoulder epaulet down to the left hip are partially covered by a scarlet sash about the waist. A golden gorget with the symbols of the army hangs from about the neck. Three small, golden ropes tip down from the right shoulder into a little pocket on the chest, giving a small curve, and on the opposite side of the chest over the heart is a golden pin in the shape of a badger's head showing the rank of General. Underneath the jacket is a loose white shirt with a pair of high waisted beige overalls that tuck neatly into a pair of high black hessian styled boots. An officer’s saber and scabbard hangs at their side.

Uniform Examples:

Basic Recruit Uniform

A sergeant of the main regiment's field uniform

An officer of the EDIT 67th 68th Fur and Foot Fighting Patrol's field uniform
forgive the lack of actual proper epaulets i'm not artistically talented enough yet to even try to draw them rip

An officer of the main regiment's dress uniform
also i'm aware there's only five buttons per line not ten - i'll fix it at some point, or leave it as is and edit the main post because tbh I kinda like the look

Edit:

A private in the main regiment's uniform

Ens. Elbio and Sgt. Terrence.

Like clockwork, Terrence's day since the return of the badger lord and his company to Salamandastron has been as follows: after waking and a brief meal for breakfast, the sergeant take the patrol and recruits on a long march up and down the coast, returning at 11 am for an hour long lunch. At noon, after a brief meeting for announcements and other such things, the patrol moves to either the training room or the outside parade ground for drilling and practice fighting until 6, at which time dinner is eaten. Today just after noon, Terrence is in the training room today working with his patrol and the new recruits with quick timed formation. There sergeant barks out commands for them to react quickly and take position, trying their best to swiftly switch from marching column to the four ranked battle line and back again.

Elbio went on the walk but then had been called aside to get his new uniform, by now it's very likely the Badger Lord had informed his new teachers of the change in his rank. Seeing the Sergeant he straightens up and walks over, salutes "Sur" He says and waits to see what he needs to do.

Terrence raises an eyebrow at him, and waves over one of the the lance-corporals to take over the drilling so he can talk. "By all rights," the sergeant says as he salutes to Elbio when he makes his way over, "I'm the one who calls you sah, Ensign. I'm simply just 'sergeant' to you now."

Elbio looks surprised " But are you not supposed to be one of my teachers?" Ok he is still new to all this, but us learning.

"I suppose I am," Terrence shrugs, "I'm acting as you'h trainah but not you'h commandah - there's more of a difference on papah between the two than in reality, but there's still a difference. While I can't officially ordah you 'round like of the privates, you might take what I say as a suggestion of sorts." The sergeant leans on his spear. "And that goes both ways - you can't strictly ordah me 'round, neithah. Not till you're a full offciah, wot."

Elbio nods in understanding "Understood  Sergeant. I know I still need training in a few fighting forms, and now on how to be an officer. Hopefully I am ready by Spring"

The sergeant bows his head, "Of course, I think we all hope that." Terrence walks over to a table and, leaning his spear against it, picks up two sabers blunted with rounded point. "When it comes to fighting forms, the main one you need to worry about is you'h sword play." He turns back to Elbio and offers one of the practice weapons to him. "You'll be getting a propah blade with you'h lieutenancy, so you should start learning now. You know how to use a sabah, sah?"

Elbio takes the saber and nods" I can use one yes . I have also used a dirk mostly and some throwing knifes"

Terrence nods, thinking. "I see. Well, you'll want a sabah o'h othah longah blade than a dirk, especially considering you'll be acting alone in Mossflowah." Taking a few quick swings in the air to test the blade, the sergeant looks at Elbio. "You up fo'h a practice duel? I haven't done one since the patrol had more hares, but I used to come in second place in the old fencing competitions seasons ago."

Elbio nods " Sure and..well I won't be alone, others are at the abbey where I will mainly be. Though I am to check on Ferravale sometimes, was thar briefly once tis a mainly vermin village"

With a laugh Terrence replies, "Of course you'll have the beasts who live there around you- I heard about those places, but nevah been there myself - but you won't have any trained fighting hares around you was my meaning, sah. A speah, dirk, o'h sling is good fo'h group fighting with those who know how to use them, but with one on one not much is bettah than a sword."

Elbio says, "Thats true and quick thinking is good, course if worse comes to worse...could always retreat, done it before. There was these...well, not sure odd creatures deep south, rather not see them ever again. "

Terrence is silent for a moment, pondering what was said. "Hmm. Well, hopefully you won't run into whatevah those creatures were any time soon." Taking off his jacket and setting it neatly down on the table, the sergeant turns back. "I'd also be cautious about putting yourself in situations were retreat is needed - obviously you can't tell what every encountah will turn into, but it's a rathah dangerous thing to turn you'h back on the enemy. Even if hares are fastah than most none of us can outrun an arrow o'h stone, at least as fa'h as I've seen with my own eyes."

Elbio stays alert as the Sargent speaks, " True, very well I do try to be careful and hope never need ta try and outrun an arrow."

"Good sense of you'h own mortality, eh?" Terrence chuckles. "Most new recruits don't have that even if that's what I'd say is the most important thing about soldering. And best way to deal with an arrow is killing the beast before they can draw one - with which a sabah'll help immensely."

Elbio hmmms, " To block my guess and archers are not too good up close" He is still alert as he watches Terrence.

"Block?" A look of surprise is on the sergeant's face. "I've not of heard anyone blocking an arrow, but I suppose you mean blocking any blades they might have." Terrence brings up his practice weapon. "Luckily, if one knows how to use a sabah few things are fastah in close combat. Unless they have armouh, of course," He adds as an after thought, "But if they are kitted out like that I'd suggest running fo'h the hills before they see you." It's clear from his tone that while somewhat jokingly light there's an edge of seriousness to his statement.

Elbio nods as he angles his practice blade. "Wise advice, get back up if needed or leave alone if they are passing by."

Footpaws together forming a backwards L shape, Terrence raises his own practice blade up and point straight out towards Elbio, before raises it upwards to complete the brief sword salute. "Well then, shall?" His stance changes - while his footpaws are still forming the same rough shape as before, they're spread apart and his knees are bent. He bounces ever so slightly on them, waiting for Elbio with his saber pointed at the ensign and left paw behind his back.

Elbio nods, ok so he does need to learn a sword salute but doesn't seem to hard as he gets into a fighters stance and stays alert. He stays focused and ready.

"Well then - En grade!" Terrence says, giving the ensign a moment to breath... before suddenly lunging forward with a quick and simple thrust.

Elbio quickly angles to block the blade with his own and push it away. He has been in fights before.

Terrence rocks back slightly on his heels, allowing his blade to be pushed away. He follows with a light slash to the ensign's left, but it's a fient - if Elbio falls for it the sergeant dips his practice blade down to poke his opponents center.

Elbio follows carefully and goes to block, his eyes go wide at the trick and he mutters to himself. He may need a little practice with the blade. He speaks "Suppose in a fight I would either be dead now, or badly hurt"

"Maybe, though it wouldn't have been more than a pin-prick." Terrence steps back, putting a bit of distance between them and raising his sword tip out towards Elbio in a defensive stance. "I mostly did it to throw you off more than anything."

Elbio nods. "Yeah..." He tries for the surprise attack now swinging to the right side and staying quick on the footpaws.

Terrence sees Elbio move and simply moves his blade slightly to the right to parry the  swing, following with a quick thrust not meant to hit but to keep the ensign away. "You'll need to do more than just a swing to surprise me - try feinting more."

Elbio backs up and nods, he is learning to do better. He thinks, as he stays alert. A faint to the right is done then, a quick jab to the left.

Terrence went to block the right, though having just suggested the ensign feint he expected it; yet he allows the left jab besides a slight twist to lessen the impact. Even though the blades were blunted and the tips rounded, it still hurt to get jabbed by one. "Good!"

Elbio chuckles, he then angles the blade and moves slightly to the left going in for a slash to the side.

With a quick flick of the wrist Terrence's saber parries the slash to the side, followed by a swift slash of the sergeant's own - going immediately from Elbio's practice blade up towards his sword arm.

Elbio is a bit surprised and about loses his balance but keeps a good grip on the blade. "Ok... That hurt some..."

"Sorry." Terrence mutters, lowering his weapon. "Though you'll probably get a few more bruises before the spring, sah. I'll have to teach you how to parry and block more effectively, maybe fo'h next time."

Elbio nods "Next time works yes still some time." He knows he has this and other things  to learn by then.

With a nod Terrence salutes in farewell. "Right then, ensign, see you soon." The sergeant turns back to his patrol and soon takes over the the drills once again.

Soon to be Ensign Elbio,
Sgt. Terrence,
And Lt. Velm.

Velm is awake and slowly stands up from sitting. He looks around as if confused at first and then seems to remember somewhat" Infirmary... how did I get here?" His ears flatten as he was outside, on the beach wait no he was heading to the mountain and the rest is blurry for now.

Terrence had come to the infirmary to visit a very different hare than the one who woke, and, after being turned away from his main goal for some reason or another by a healer, pauses by the older buck's bed. "You're in the infirmary in Salamandastron." He says after seeing no other hare was around to answer.

Velm studies Terrence and frowns. "I don't think I know you. Sorry lad it's... been a few seasons sadly since I been here"

"Indeed." Terrence replies, looking Velm over. "Sgt. Terrence Cadwalladah, at you'h service. And to be quite honest I don't think I know you eithah - you are?"

Velm nods, "Velm, a healer mostly but I can fight." He tries to remember" I kind of got lost getting back..see someone mentioned the Long Patrol was back in the area and I..I had to find you guys, know who survived that.." He frowns now and takes a deep breath," I don't remember every thing just some flashbacks and bad dreams but a lot... died, I didn't though and found or rather the otter found me" He sighs "Poor old fellow died few weeks ago... old age but he, he helped me best he could and was a good friend"

There's a moment or two in which Terrence digests the older hare's words. "I... see." He doesn't quite understand, though he can guess. "Sorry fo'h you'h loss." Another second of pondering. "By 'that', do you happen to mean anything to do with Redwall?"

Velm nods" Yes the abbey, by the abbey . A horde,  I think and I was with some other hares. I sadly still not remembering everything of that day just a lot died and ..I think was seprated somehow,  the otter mentioned me muttering of they were dead, and how I failed. The old otter helped me, well healed me and was a friend the past seasons"

"Oh. Oh." Terrence's voice is a bit higher pitched than normal as what exactly Velm is talking sinks in. He had his suspicions, but now he's sure. "That was more than eight seasons ago, wasn't it? The siege at Redwall."

Velm ears flatten, "Yes the siege, some... stoat I think... maybe returning was a bad idea but I wanted to come home. I felt I needed to be home." He blinks as he remembers something. "Last night... I... who carried me in?"

Terrence shrugs. "I frankly can't answer that - I wasn't aware you were here 'till, well, I saw you. Do you remembah anything else?" The sergeant is clearly searching for something in his questions, though what it is isn't clear. "Such was who you served undah, o'h names of you'h squad mates?"

Velm sits quietly and finally nods. " I remember a captain.." He tells the name" Others were there too." He mentions a well know,major and a couple privates. " In another Sargeant Tarsa, she was..strick"

Terrence freezes at the mention of who is no doubt his father, but he quickly hides that - instead focusing on the last name mentioned. "I remembah Sgt. Tarsa - I didn't serve undah he'h though, and I didn't know he'h that well. She, uh, well, survived but-" He looks down at the floor, thinking best how to break the news. "She was killed in action a few seasons aftah the siege."

Velm frowns "The life of a patrol hare isn't always easy it would seem. Maybe his Lordship will let me return, and if not I would understand."

"Perhaps he will." The sergeant mutters, thinking. "I daresay we've been in a sorry shape since that disastah at Redwall, and we still don't have the same numbah of hares we once did." Terrence tilts his head, looking at Velm. "Do you know what rank you were?"

Velm replies " Lt..yes that is the rank. And with time I am sure de patrol can be great again "

At the mention of the rank, Terrence quickly salutes. "Sah!" Though the sergeant soon relaxes as - as far as he knows - Velm isn't an active member of the Patrol. "Perhaps it can be," he agrees, though he soon adds more to himself than the other hare, "If it evah was in the first place..."

Velm tilts his head and speaks "Things happen you can't always control, that horde...had to of been fairly large and strong but had we not came,  well... all of Mossflower could be under vermin control and that horde much worse, maybe even looking to try thar luck here even, maybe by then winning"

There's something that flashes across the sergeant's face for an instance, but it swiftly turns into just a slight frown as Terrence levels his gaze at Velm. "I suppose that is true - things happen, but well." His own reservations about that siege and the amount of deaths it caused he mostly keeps to himself - mostly. "I daresay a victory needs more than just nineteen hares to enjoy it." He says, pointedly.

Velm says, "19 survived out of....300?"

"I suppose it's twenty including you." Terrence lets the silence hang in the air for a bit after his words. "Though that numbah is mainly those that were fit fo'h active duty aftahwards." I hope are words that the sergeant leaves unsaid.

Elbio pokes his head into the room as if looking for someone, sighing slightly when he doesn't seem to find them. Other wise he quietly stays by the doorway as to not disturb whomever is in here.

Velm nods as he seems to think "Maybe I did fail some." He looks at the door when Elbio enters.

Terrence also turns to glance at the door and realizes there's another hare he doesn't recognize. "Are you one of the the new recruits, then?" The sergeant doesn't comment on Velm's statement but his expression softens.

Elbio salutes when he sees the sergeant "Sur... Private Elbio... fighter and... well guess Redwall Hare or supposed to be in the Spring for sure"

Velm sighs and decides its best to rest for now.

"Sergeant Terrence Cadwallader, at you'h service, private." He remembers the name Elbio from one of the reports he read, though few other details. "Well then - we'll make sure you're properly part of a patrol before being sent off to that forsaken place, eh?" Another glance at the lieutenant, and the sergeant waves a paw. "Perhaps we should go out into the hall, leave him be fo'h now."

Elbio nods "That is a good idea and... Redwall is a great place, I even made a couple friends and helped them make some rats go away" He will follow the Sergeant out to the hallway "I am only here till like Spring then head to Redwall, but most likely will be here in winter, I think in the winter time seasons"

Terrence nods, slowly, only half paying attention. "Right - right. I've heard plenty of hares say good things about Redwall, but the Long Patrol has bad luck with it." Once they're in the hallway, the sergeant speaks more freely. "So you'll be here fo'h one season, eh? I can work with that."

Elbio says, "Well season and a half really but yes sur" He frowns a little "Wot would I... need ta do before I go back? I know how to fight..fairly good, I can track a little, also know wot plants are good and bad to eat, and learning a little healing""

"Fight, eh?" Terrence raises an eyebrow. "Well that's all good and well, but I'll have to ask you: how well would you say you work in a unit? Of course only if you've been given the chance, that is."

Elbio says, "Well... I was with Corporal Adrian and... Monty, errr well they have new ranks now but at de time that was the rank and we have like 3 others with us."

Nodding, Terrence rubs his chin. "I nevah really talked with Adrain beyond once o'h twice while he was here, and Monty I've only evah heard of." He shrugs. "Oh well. You'll be working with a new corporal, as well as more hares - ten privates ideally to a squad. Do you know how to use speahs o'h slings, by chance?"

Elbio nods "I... of course sur and I can use a sling, not a spear though...not had the chance to practice with one"

Terrence clicks his tongue. "We'll have to remedy that. Speahs are the most useful weapons in a tight formation, so you'll learn soon enough. What did you say was you'h full name again, private Elbio?"

Elbio says, "Elbio Hans Reed... sur, thats my full name... well Private Elbio Hans Reed"

With a nod Terrence gives a causal wave of the paw. "Right then, Elbio Reeds, I'll have to take my of you now - I promised the quartermastah I'd meet with them today, so unless you want to tag along fo'h more than an hours worth of logistics talk, good day private!" With those words the sergeant makes his way quickly down the hall towards the storage rooms in the lower mountain.

Elbio salutes and then heads towards the Dinning Hall, he had missed lunch so hopefully there was still something left of lunch.

Pvt. Koda,
Sgt. Terrence,
Mjr. Varus,
and Sgt. Zolomon

Zolomon walks in from the Upper Level, looks a little tied but other wise he is alert this afternoon and getting use to being back as he did tag along to go to Redwall.

Covered in sand, Terrence comes from the passageway out with his uniform coat slung over one shoulder. The sergeant pauses upon seeing Zolomon, offering a small nod. "Zolomon." He says - he seems rather preoccupied.

Zolomon gives a nod "Sur" Seems he will still call Terrence this "Ya doing ok? Everyone that went is back, even got a couple new privates now"

"So I've heard." Terrence doesn't correct the honorific. "I'm fine, as fine as one can be with this patrol." The bespectacled hare shakes his head. "The new privates will need to go through recruit training no matter their rank or experience - and I doubt they'll be happy." After a moment, he asks, more intently than before, "What's your opinion of them, cor- sergeant?"

Zolomon nods as he listens, " So far they seem to follow orders and get along with others, they were with Monty and Adrian, and Monty and Adrian seem to have gone on on more, suppose, recruit searching or something, thar is also a haremaid who I believe will just be helping in like the kitchens or somewhere not sure"

Terrence nods. "Adrian's still a corporal, right? I've only eveh talked to him once o'h twice, but that was seasons ago - long before you got here." As for the others, he simply nods again. "Anything else you noticed? Do they know how to fight, camp...? At least the hare maid knows how to cook, though I'm thinking I'll have the whole lot of them learn how."

Zolomon replies "Far as I know he is still Corporal and I believe they know how to fight, oh there is also Elibo though he is just here during the winter...well he is here now but goes back to the abbey in spring"

"Elbio?" The name sounds strange in Terrence's mouth, and he says it a few times. "Well, eithah way I'll make him into a right prop patrol hare - especially with what happened to Ewan at Redwall." He scowls. "We do not need to lose anothah hare to those woodlands. I'm assuming he's the new hare fo'h that abbey?"

Zolomon nods, he does frown a little as he remembers Ewan, " Yes, he is. He is in the Mt. somewhere."

"Indeed. Well, looks like I've work cut out fo'h me." Terrence pinches the bridge of his snout. "If you evah want to lend a paw with the new one's - and Sergeant Felicity's unit - drilling you're more than welcome to."

Zolomon nods "Yeah, its gonna be busy around here now that everyone is mostly back, and get things slowly back to normal"

"Yes, though of course I'm missing two bloody corporals between you and Adrian." Terrence grins, "And I suppose you need some as well."

Zolomon chuckles "Hopefully one or two will be chosen soon, suppose we will have to see." He sighs a little "Hope Felicity recovers soon and even when she does, she will likely only be part time for a while"

There's a shift in Terrence's expression as Felicity's mentioned, but its soon gone. "Yes. Yes..." With a sigh the sergeant shrugs. "Unfortunately I have the sinking feeling it will be some time before she's back to herself, if at, well." He leaves the last part of his sentence unsaid. "I'm thinking about putting in a request to get Dom at least Lance-Corporal, but half the time it seems a rathah bad idea what its his, ehem, oddities."

Zolomon says, "I think Dom has done fairly well, just make sure no one talks of toads around him"

With a grimace Terrence responds, "I daresay he needs to get ovah that if he's going to work as anything highah than a private. Maybe giving him some responsibility'll straighten him out - o'h at least stop him from lurking i the catacombs."

Zolomon frowns "He still hangs out down thar...hmm. I think he could likely handle it if your talking a...like promotion maybe, maybe Major Varus would know"

"Yes, though the majah's been busy." Terrence says, "Same goes fo'h Lt. Greg and even myself - with Felicity, well, I have twice the normal number of hares to look ovah."

Zolomon says, "I can help best I can , we do need ta make sure de patrol is in good fightinf form"

"Indeed - also, Zolomon," Terrence looks at him, "Can I ask you a favoh? While I've given the ordahs to mine and Felicity's squads, I can't extend them to yours: basically what I'm asking is that you tell you'h hares to keep out of Halyard unless strictly ordered to go there. We lost a private there a little while back due to a ba'h fight and I don't want to lose any more like that."

Zolomon listens carefully, "Alright and  I won't go either. I think some of the retired hares can keep an eye on things if needed, and I know one former member stays thar so perhaps check with them at times."

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Having cleaned up from the day's exercises Terrence finds himself once again making his way down the halls. He has intent now, though, and the small piece of paper with a small list of names was clenched in one paw. The sergeant nods from time to the hares he passes but he's mostly preoccupied.

Koda walks slowly down the hallway, delivering a note and picking up a report, he now heads back to the library.

"Sergeant," comes a voice with a commanding air. The older Major had just stepped out of a nearby door, just into Terrence's path. "Ah, and Private... Koda, is it?" He's barely met the fresh-faced Private, but he makes it a priority to know all the names of the junior ranks. He's mostly greeting the two other hares in passing, however.

"Sah." Terrence gives a quick salute before his attention is turned to the private for a moment. He'd hardly noticed Koda before this, but no matter. "Majah, I was actually looking fo'h you."

Koda also salutes and stands at attention to both, "Surs. I was just checking on reports and then getting them to who needs them." Not to much is to report, basic how things are in the infirmary and supply lists in the infirmary and kitchens.

Varus pauses, mid-stride. "Y' were?" He turns, looking Terrence up and down. "This isn't tha' supply requisition request, is it?" He also nods to Koda. "At ease."

"No, no, I don't know anything about the supplies." Terrence says, holding out the paper, "It's more to do with command, Sah. To put it simply I'm out of three blinkin' corporals since Zolomon's promotion and with you'h son staying out on his mission- six if you include me looking aftah all of Sgt. Felicity's hares, and I need the help."

Koda relaxes and stays off to the side, he frowns a bit but doesn't ask what was going on and he knows the haremaid was in the infirmary,likely one of the reports is updates on how she is.

Varus grimaces briefly at the mention of Felicity. "No improvement there, I'm afraid," he replies. "Th' healahs 'ave no idea..." He takes the parchment, adjusts his spectacles, and takes a look over it. "Looks like we need a round o' promotions, eh wot. Speakin' o' Adrian, 'e's a Sahgeant, now. And, if all goes well, they'll be back wi' us come next Summah, eh wot." He peruses the list a second time, more critically.

"Ah, well, uh, congratulations." Terrence looks a bit sheepish for a moment, but it soon passes. "Of course, I would have liked to actually have him worked as a corporal fo'h me but good fo'h him. Anyway!" The sergeant gestures to the paper. "Those are my recommendations fo'h corporals in my patrol - Pvt. Greenhill, Pvt. Konneh, and, well, Pvt. Kasimi'h. Hopefully if we give some responsibility to Dom he'll stop sending so much time down with the dead..."

Koda listens quietly to the talking as he has nothing else to do as of right now. "Maybe some of the...recruits will be privates soon if its more hares for patrols that's needed." He isn't sure how helpful he is though.

Varus looks up, over the top of the list in his paws. "Now, that lad know wot needs doin'. Yes, we need t' get more o' those recruits whipped inta shape an' make Privates out of 'em all... As f'r yahr suggestions... I like 'em. Exceptin' Private Kasimir. I'm not fully convinced 'e's fully recovahed from 'is mental breakdown... Before I'm ready t' formally promote 'im, I'd first like t' send 'im on a routine mission wi' a pahty o' four recruits, to test 'is command ability... Wi' yahrself taggin' along t' observe."

Terrence nods. "Yes sah, I'll be sure to." He doesn't seem the most thrilled, though. "As fo'h the recruits - and you, private," He turns to Koda, "I'm planning on having every hare I can legally ordah to go through training and drilling again till you lot all are hares of the Long Patrol."

Varus notes the Sergeant's lack of enthusiasm. "I'm sorry, Lad. Normally, leveret-sittin' Private Dominik is something I would've assigned Felicity to do, but she's...indisposed... So it'll fall on yahr shouldahs this time..."

With a laugh Terrence shakes his head, "No, it's no mattah sah - at least were Dom comes in. It's not him I'm worried, o'h necessarily the poo'h privates saddled with him. Moreso the rest of the hares here." He shrugs. "Perhaps instead of just Dom and a few hares I'd suggest leading a general training mission fo'h all of the privates, corporals, and recruits, while keeping an eye on Dom to see how he handles it. Kill two birds with one stone, if you understand my meaning. Oh," he adds, after a moment, "We will be sure to avoid those damned swamps and the toads."

Varus grimaces again. "I already wrote it up as mah general recommendation t' avoid trainin' missions in th' swamps for all but th' most experienced patrollahs. We don't need a repeat o' tha' debacle, especially not on mah watch, since I'm currently th' only active duty Majah takin' soldiahs inta battles. Wot wi' mah colleagues all retirin', goin' off t' run the 68th in Mossflowah, or goin' off on secret missions that only Lord Ciocan knows about."

"Indeed sah." Terrence takes of his spectacles, polishing them with the hem of his tunic. "Whether o'h not you are the only majah, the privates and recruits all need to get used to using speahs in basic battle formations, least fo'h startahs. I was planning on mostly staying on the parade ground right outside the mountain fo'h all that."

Varus nods his head again. "Y'll get no objections from me, eh wot. Speah trainin' is just as useful as th' rest." He looks over the list in his paw. "I'll definitely fast track Konnah's promotion, though..."

"Pvt. Greenhill's also shown herself to be competent, especially since we got back from sea," Terrence taps the paper. "If Reuenthal were still alive I'd have put him there instead of Konnah."

Varus frowns. "Aye, he 'ad promise. It's always th' promisin' soldiahs tha' pass t' the Dahk Forest, I'm afraid... I second Green'ill, though."

Terrence shrugs. "But there's little we can do when it comes to fighting - he was one of the more skilled hares. As fo'h Greenhill," he nods, "She's probably the most level-headed private in the whole division!"