In Other Lands

by Sarah Rees Brennan

“We expected something quite different,” she said. “I would be happy to sign this.” Elliot did not miss the faint emphasis she laid on this. It seemed like Captain Whiteleaf did not miss it either. “You’re still a pack of impossible brats,” said Captain Whiteleaf on the ride home. “But I suppose you meant it for the best. This once, I will not report your wild behaviour to the commander.” He spurred his horse and rode to the front of the company. “‘Oh, thank you for saving my first mission,’” said Elliot. “‘No, no, Captain Whiteleaf, it was my pleasure, please do not mention it, all this fulsome gratitude is so embarrassing!’” “Shut up. That was really good of him,” said Luke. “And the mission would have been fine if you hadn’t destroyed the treaties like a maniac.” “Oh, would it?”