"I am on an important mission and you are blocking my way," Anna shouted. "I have to get to Heraklion! There isn't much time. I ... I ... Oh God," she said, suddenly overwhelmed by dizziness and having trouble standing up. "Oh, Ever Holy One, help me!"
The officer approached Anna. He noticed her bleeding ankle and realized the serious nature of her behavior.
"Would you like to sit down?" he asked, more courteously.
"Yes, thank you, I would," the relieved Anna responded.
The lieutenant ordered a soldier to bring a folding stool, which he offered to Anna.
"I'd like to sit in the shade, please." The young man moved the stool under an olive tree, as the officer followed.
"Would you like some coffee?" asked the now friendlier lieutenant.
"Yes, I would love some ... strong, very strong please."
"Right away, Miss," said the soldier who had been standing by as he headed for the truck.
"Why do you have to go to Heraklion?" asked the officer.
"I need to deliver an important envelope." After a few sips of coffee, Anna felt much better. "My name is Anna, by the way.
What is your name?"
"Lieutenant Petros Varvatos, 369
Infantry Division of the Greek Army."
His accent was Northern Greek, from Macedonia perhaps. Anna looked directly into his green eyes, wondering if she could trust him. He took his hat off, combing his short blond hair with his hand. "My God, he could be my brother," thought Anna, feeling more at ease as she observed him. Deciding she could trust him, she turned around, lifted her dress up slightly, and took out the rather worn envelope. Having caught a glimpse of her legs, the young soldier returning with the coffee almost dropped it on the ground. Anna smiled.
"Here, you must take these to Tsoutheros," she said to the lieutenant.
"But he is the Prime Minister," he muttered.
"Well, what of it? These papers are of the utmost importance. Better yet, take them to the head of the Greek Armed Forces in Crete." Anna paused.
"Maybe it would be best if you took them yourself," the lieutenant suggested, thinking the young woman might have a chance of getting through the Army's red tape.
"Can we go together?" Anna asked enthusiastically.
"Yes, but first I must get permission. I cannot leave the soldiers here alone."
"All right, do that, but please hurry up," answered a relieved Anna.
The soldier brought more coffee, paying careful attention this time.