Over The Top
In one, swift motion, you bring your rifle to bear upon the unknown reflection and fire off three quick shots before huddling down next to George.
– “Did you hit him?” he asks.
– “I don’t know…I think so!” you answer between breaths.
George peers slowly over the parapet and, after a few seconds, huddles next to you in alarm.
– “I’ve seen it! It’s still there!” he mumbles excitedly.
Reaching into your pack, you pull out a couple of grenades. Handing one over to George, the two of you pull out the pins, count to three, then lob them over the parapet and into No Man’s Land.
Seconds later, a couple of explosions sends bits of earth flying over your helmets. No sooner do you resume your positions than Lieutenant Jarvis arrives on the scene with half a dozen men in tow.
– “What the devil is going on?” he exclaims in a muffled voice.
– “Thought we saw something moving, sir!” replies George, “we couldn’t make it out so we threw a couple of grenades…just to make sure.”
– “Damn you, there’s no use waking up the whole sector. If you’ve got a problem, handle it quietly, with your rifles. And if it’s not too much asking, please consult with me before starting your own bloody war!”
Irritated, Lieutenant Jarvis walks off with his men to resume his duties.
Disconsolate, yet relieved, George and you resume your look out and turn to the more pressing task of keeping warm.