A/N: picking up where "On Her Majesty's DEADly Service" left off.
HMS Ark Royal, Western Pacific Ocean, 100 nautical miles SE Tokyo Japan Z-Day+3 0930hrs
The civilian staff from HRM Legation had been successfully transferred aboard the Ark Royal from the HMS Inscrutable by the time Blake and his exhausted Marines arrived on the flight line. They had been given quarters below decks, change of clothes and food. The Japanese civilians, though grateful, were understandably anxious to return home for at least the hope of news about their loved ones. Blake was informed upon his arrival that the Consul-General wished to speak to him at his earliest convenience. Blake dismissed his squad to the galley for much needed hot meals and tea and gave them liberty for the rest of the day.
Blake found his way to the Marine contingent on board and introduced himself to the senior Royal Marine aboard.
Captain Leo de Souza returned Blake's salute and offered him tea. Gratefully, Blake began to drink the hot brew and proceeded to debrief for the Captain.
An hour later, the Captain let out a low whistle.
"Christ, Staff Sergeant," he commented. "You had a bloody go of it, didn't you?"
"Compared to the poor bastards outside the gate, I would say, we were right lucky, sir."
"I got the final communique from Major Giles concerning your actions before his, er…demise, we shall say. The commander of the Ark agreed and we have decided to promote you to Sergeant Major. Mind you this is all unofficial, but I think warranted.
Blake simply stared into his now empty mug. He had only done his duty, certainly nothing to warrant promotion to Sergeant Major.
"With all due respect, sir," Blake began. He was quickly waved off by Capt de Souza.
"Nonsense, Sergeant Major. We need more men like you in the field."
De Souza turned to a file cabinet, opened a drawer and pulled out a file. He handed it to Blake and nodded his head.
"That file says, as of noon Tokyo time today, the rules of engagement for all non-Japanese forces in country are lifted. It also says that anyone who is willing to help is invited to stay and help clean up this shite. Basically, we can go in, kick ass and take names all with the blessing of the Japanese government."
Blake perused the contents of the folder, confirming everything Capt de Souza had just said.
"I can't speak for my men, but I would like to volunteer for the ground mission, sir," Blake said.
"Understood Sergeant Major. Talk it over with your men. I am sure some of mine would love to get in the soup as well."
"Will there be anything else, sir?"
"You are dismissed Sergeant Major," de Souza said. "Go down to the galley and get something to eat. You must be starving. I'll convene all the Marines in Ward Room A at 1800hrs."
Blake saluted and walked out of the captain's quarters. With any luck, he would be back on dry land this time tomorrow, bringing the fight to Zed. He smiled inwardly at the thought of finally going on the offensive. He ran into Sergeants White and Pegg as they exited the galley.
"Lads, we're going back, if you want in."
White and Pegg grinned at each other then turned to face Blake.
"Couldn't stop us if the Queen said no, Staff Sergeant," White replied. Pegg nodded in affirmation.
"That's the attitude I wanted to see. Find the rest of the squad and let them know Capt de Souza wants us all for brief at 1800hrs in Ward Room A."
"Yes Staff Sergeant," Pegg said.
"And now, if you will excuse me, I need my breakfast," Blake said.
