I’d have to say that those with a military background will probably like this one better than those that don’t. “Duty” is a difficult concept to describe, but many times, those that have faced battle, and stood side-by-side with your fellows on the fields of war, know the concept wall. So this short story touches onto that just a little.

What’s this one about? Well, I’ve got a good friend, and I think of her often. For those that don’t know, I spend a considerable portion of my time at sea every year. This was written in mid 2002, in response to a wonderful email I received from my lady-friend. It was wonderfully uplifting, as long jaunts at sea can drain the spirits more than a little, and so this story was the response to that email. It had been a long and arduous tour-of-duty, and there was still a bit left, but at least the end was in sight.

After having just recently let loose with another “Challenge Story” submission, I should probably note that the “Kenti” in this story and the “Kenti” in the recent story, while both tigers, and both sharing a name, aren’t the same. Hopefully, that will clear up some confusion. :) Nonetheless, I hope everyone enjoys it.