Saturday 11 July 2009

Reds

They just could not stand each other.

It was a test of wills, a clash of egos. On home turf they were both leaders, respected by their peers, rightfully placed on a pedestal by their followers. But now, in strange territory, they had to fight for the right to be heard.

The last exercise truly angered her. Earlier in the day they had both been selected to be in the same group of ten, which he had allowed one of his younger men to lead. However, out of natural respect - or perhaps fear of reprimand -the new chief kept refering back to his erstwhile captain, who gladly issued commands that he expected everone to follow. It had cost them a victory, when his instruction was in direct contrast to her proposal, and she had been correct. In fact his decision had put them in so much trouble that their team received a public telling-off, much to the delight of the others.

A classic battle of the sexes was set up. The whole camp could sense that these two were just never going to get along. They were cordial, even friendly with everyone else, but avoided having a conversation between themselves. She could hardly wait for the week to be over so she could avoid seeing him ever again.

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