15-12-YC121

To think it is but less than two weeks until Yoiul.  I fear I shall not be at home with my family this year.  Instead, I shall be here, on Floseswin, fighting on the ground, in the rubble-strewn streets.  I shall not be alone, of course, for I have the brave soldiers, the men and women of my family's Household Naval Infantry.  They may only be a Company, but they are brave and dedicated, and more than capable of facing the hardships of the most brutal arenas of this war.

I had the opportunity to go home, of course.  Aside from the traditional lottery that our Household forces always have when festivals fall in times of conflict, Officers with ties to the family always have the privilege of going home.  I have given the Right up for this year, however.  It did not feel proper to take it, though no-one would have complained, when we are here because Father gave the order as soon as Sasha was overdue on his regular contact.  Something must have happened, and that, combined with the simple fact that we have a duty to be here as Vassals of Lord Sarum, means that for most of us, grenades and mortars shall be our fireworks displays, flamethrowers shall be our Yoiul fires, and the mounds of dead Tribals shall be our presents.  I gave my place to Vitalyovich Ustinov, a young Matros.  His wife recently gave birth to a daughter.  It seems only right he should be with them.  I gave him a little silver chain as a present for his little one.

We, as a Company, have given presents to the civilian children remaining here, also.  Little things, such as sweet treats and what few rations we can spare - or scavenge.  It has made us a little more popular than I suspect would otherwise be the case, and with the adults too.  This is a good thing.  If we can show that we are here to protect, not harm, they may be more inclined to assist us, even if it just in small ways.  Already some of the braver, or more street-wise youngsters are proving to be the most observant and attentive helpers, reporting back on enemy movements and maneuvers that they become aware of.  I am sure some the older ones would be more than willing to assist us in more proactive ways.  After all, everyone trusts children, do they not?  Even Tribals.

I must try to get some time to send a message to Mama and Felix, and to Lilya too.  Poor thing, I know she shall worry so when she finds out I am here on the planet itself.  The orders were so sudden, I did not have time to let her know.  I brought the pistol she gave me, and I think of her everytime I look at it.  I shall use it to kill as many of the enemy as possible, to defend her and render her safe.