Chapter Four: “Detention”

Chains of Birth (Part I of the “Chains of Life” Series)

Chains of Birth (Part I of the “Chains of Life” Series)
Chapter Four:  “Detention”
Setting:  Aboard the Arthra, Room Alpha-Three (A3) aka Fate’s quarters
Time:  Thursday, May 29, 2004 @  16:00 hours

After nine days of traveling, my journey aboard the Arthra was coming to an end.  Miss Lindy stood in front of me and smiled gently while she fixed my uniform.  She had it modified to fit me perfectly, so the skirt hung a just the right height, and even had my name Fate Testarossa sewn into the blouse part.  The only things missing were the rank and any designations of duty.  So technically, it was still only a civilian black pleated dress.  Chrono had shown me how to shine my shoes to a high polish, and told me to be careful and not scuff them.  I remember, it took me hours to shine those shoes.

During the few days aboard the Arthra, I had a feeling of being home.  Here I was, under the care of Miss Lindy, and Miss Amy, and Chrono, and Arf.  I have my own room, even though I’m locked in it, but at least I get to spend time with Arf, so I’m not alone.  And with Miss Lindy overseeing my care, most of my wounds have already healed.  Chrono would spend hours in here, tutoring me on the ways of the Bureau.  He taught me how to march, and how to be respectful, and professional to any of my superiors.  I think Miss Lindy was a bit tickled with that, and at times, she would have to remind me that I could still call her ‘mom’ whenever I felt ready.