The Confederacy Ascendant

Chapter 1

It was 1861, and in Atlanta, Georgia, a blonde-haired, green-eyed young gentleman was at a party… for him. He was celebrating his new promotion to captain in the army. He was an officer in the infantry, and the spare of his family, who was well-known for the quality of the cotton their plantation produced. This young soldier's name was Maxwell Kessler.

"Max, you know you need a wife! What's the delay?"

Maxwell groaned. That blasted sister of his… "Amy, how many times do I need to say it? I don't want to make a widow out of anyone. No marrying anyone until…"

"…until the Indians settle down, I know, Maxwell Vincent Kessler. At any rate, the O'Haras are here. And they brought that Scarlett girl."

Max smiled. He'd always been drawn to Katie Scarlett O'Hara… and not just because of her looks. She was spirited, and smart as a whip. He loved brains.

"Fine by me," he said.

"But… but she's so… so firey and… and vain."

"She isn't perfect," admitted Max, "but then again, neither is anyone else."

A moment later, a smiling Scarlett appeared.

"Maxwell," said Amy. "This is the lady I was telling you about… Scarlett. Scarlett, here's Maxwell Kessler… my brother."

"Amy told me about you at the Fayetteville Female Academy," said Scarlett as Max gently kissed her hand. "Congratulations on your promotion."

"Thank you, Miss Scarlett," said Maxwell. "I guess it's because I prefer to lead from the front… but I don't guess a lady like you wants to hear about battles and wild men in Indian Territory."

Scarlett giggled demurely. "And what if I do, Captain Kessler?"

"Then I'll tell you all you care to know," he said, smirking. "In fact, if your card's got a spot, we might discuss it over a dance… if you're willing."

"I am," said Scarlett. "The third dance… it's a waltz. Don't you get too close, you devilish rogue!"

"I admit… I've known about you for a while," said Max. "In fact, my friend Ashley Wilkes spoke to me."

"Ashley?" Scarlett was certainly interested now! "What did he say?"

"He said he has… he said I could tell you this… he has… mixed emotions towards you."

"What…?" Scarlett looked crestfallen.

"He deeply cares for you… but also for his cousin Melanie."

"But… but Melanie Hamilton is so… so… oh I don't want to bother you with this."

"Miss Scarlett, the only thing that bothers me is a party with no wine," said Max with a laugh.

Scarlett sighed. "Why don't we sit down?"

The two headed to the library of the house, making sure to leave the door open.

"Now then," said Max softly. "What's this about Miss Melanie… and…". That was when he noticed a tear running down Scarlett's cheek.

"Oh Miss Scarlett, why are you crying?"