SCAR: The Program(R)(IC) Cookies Ahoy and nazguljcg

[John]

Five hours. That was how long it had been since Claire, and what was left of her team had arrived back at the SCAR base at Three Mile Island. Even though she had been debriefed, she was still thanking god that she was alive, though couldn’t shake away the sadness for those that had been lost.

Claire’s debriefing was strenuous to say the least. As she was in command of the mission, Claire had been subjected to telepathic probing. The higher ups at SCAR felt that this was truly the best way to debrief a mission commander as it made it so there were no “omissions” in the reports. The whole ordeal had left her a headache. One which was intensifying as she looked through the window of the interrogation room

Claire looked at Kristy through the two way glass and felt a little sick inside. Kristy had done everything she could during the mission, and now that her secret ahd been let out, was being treated like a criminal. At least that was how Claire viewed the situation.

“I understand how you feel Claire, but these things need to be done.” The man spoke to Claire, but she paid him little attention. Claire had little time for bureaucrats these days, especially considering what they had found in the hunting cabin outside of Dunwich.

“You’re treating her like a criminal, and she has done nothing wrong. I want to go in…now!” Claire leered at the man, who nodded his head in agreement. She was still upset that Kristy had been left to rot in the room since their return to base. Picking up a file folder, she walked around to the door and entered the room.

Staying silent, Claire sat down in the chair and placed the file on the table. Motioning for Kristy to sit, Claire smiled and opened the folder.

“I’m sorry for the way you have been treated.” Claire’s tone was sincere. “It wasn’t my call. But we have some things to discuss, and I have no doubt that you have some questions. Considering what you were involved in, I see no reason to hide the truth form you any longer. So if there is anything you would like to ask before we begin, now’s the time.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Her whole ordeal with the "CIA Agents" had left Kristy with a bad taste in her mouth. She had risked her life, and secret to help them out, and what did she get in return? A good blow to the head and a rude awakening in an interrogation room. Kristy's weapons were obviously taken, along with her vest and BDU top. Leaving her in pants, boots, and a white tank top. The first man that came through the interrogation room wasn't the kindest, but Kristy had seen meaner. He had asked the bare minimum, name, date of birth, age, serial number, the stuff they already know, but they ask anyway. The second man that came through kept harping on her, asking her why she was in the restricted perimeter, and why she was in possession of pictures and video inside the perimeter. Kristy tried to explain, but it turned into a yelling match between the two. Eventually he had left. Kristy paced around the room, letting her head bob up towards the ceiling and down to the floor as she walked.

Kristy was becoming restless, and her head was aching from being knocked out. This also hindered her ability to use her telekinesis. She couldn't focus enough to even move the glass of water that was on the table for her. After what seemed like an eternity, a familiar face came through the door. She took a seat at the small table in the middle of the room, Kristy followed suit. She wasn't exactly happy to see her, but she wasn't angry either. Kristy didn't know what Claire's intentions were, but she was, in Kristy's mind, guilty by association. When Claire smiled at her, Kristy didn't bother to return it.

"I’m sorry for the way you have been treated." Claire’s tone was sincere. "It wasn’t my call. But we have some things to discuss, and I have no doubt that you have some questions. Considering what you were involved in, I see no reason to hide the truth form you any longer. So if there is anything you would like to ask before we begin, now’s the time."

Kristy swallowed same saliva deeply, then began, "Well first off, you can start by telling me why I'm here. Then maybe you could tell me what you people really are, because its pretty obvious you aren't CIA. Last, you can tell me when my ride home will be here."

She didn't mean to come as hostile or demanding as she did, but she was still blowing off steam from her second interrogation, and that she was even in the situation in the first place.

[John]

"Well first off, you can start by telling me why I'm here. Then maybe you could tell me what you people really are, because its pretty obvious you aren't CIA. Last, you can tell me when my ride home will be here." Kristy was pissed and Claire felt she had every right to be. She had been treated poorly and wanted to go home. Claire didn’t blame her one bit. In fact, she sympathised with Kristy. But Claire had a job to do first.

“Well you’re here because we needed to debrief you before the marines.” Claire began with a serious expression on her face. “Everything that you have been witness to are not the type of things we like to share with the general public.” Claire paused for a moment hoping that Kristy’s expression would change. When it didn’t, she continued.

“As for your ride home. If that is what you wish, you may leave whenever you want. But first, I would like to present you with an offer.” Claire opened the file folder and stared blankly at the page. Clearing her throat, she looked up at Kristy and sighed. Kristy’s world had been turned upside down, and what Claire was about to say to her, could change it forever.

“As for who we are, we are a branch of the CIA called SCAR.” Claire could see a hint of impatience and confusion on the face of Kristy and decided it best to keep things simple.

“SCAR stands for Supernatural Combat Assault and Recon. We are responsible for protecting the world from, and for keeping secret the things that lay just underneath the surface. To put it simply, we are monster hunters.” This wasn’t the first time Claire had been involved in the recruiting of a SCAR operative. But that didn’t make it any easier. Sliding the file folder across the table to Kristy, she continued.

“SCAR employs advanced weaponry and gifted individuals to combat these threats. And by gifted, I mean people just like you.” The smile returned to Claire’s face and she looked into Kristy’s eyes.

“You have spent a long time keeping your ability a secret. And I understand that. But here, you are not alone. Over ninety-five per cent of the people who work for SCAR, have an ability of some sort. Basically Kristy, we are just like you.” Claire motioned at the glass and the door opened. A man in a lab coat came in and placed two cups of coffee on the table and then promptly made his exit. Claire pushed one of the cups to Kristy and took a sip from her own.

“Now I understand that this may seem a little unbelievable, but everything I’m telling you is the truth. Just look at the folder. It gives a basic outline of SCAR operations as well as notes on the types of threats we face.” Claire motioned at the folder and gave Kristy a little time to take it all in.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy mulled over the large amount of information Claire had just told her. A lot of it sounded way too crazy to be real, but Kristy just had to replay the events of the last day and it didn't seem so crazy. When Kristy was given the folder with the information on SCAR she began to thumb through it lazily, only taking her eyes away from the pages to acknowledge that some coffee was brought out for the two. Kristy flipped to a page with a picture of a werewolf on it. Slowly she ran her thumb across the beast's image. It looked almost exactly like the kind that had ambushed her squad. A small lump began to develop in Kristy's throat. She closed the folder and slid it back across the table.

"So let me get his straight," Kristy paused slightly to force the lump in her throat down, "You guys are like the Ghost Busters of the world, and you make sure to keep almost all sorts of paranormal activity out of the public's eye? And you mean to make me an offer to join?"

Kristy was uneasy about this. She made the decision to join the Marines without much thought and it had caused her a lot of heart ache, would this be any different? She had witnessed quite a few deaths in Claire's squad. Would she be able to handle it? Most importantly, was it worth it?

If you make this decision, you aren't going to have a normal life anymore, Kristy thought to herself, But its not like you had much going for you back then... Plus not many people get to say they save the world, except super heroes, Kristy finished her thought sarcastically.

"So what does joining SCAR entail? I'd suppose there is some sort of special training, or something like that with a branch so secretive," Kristy asked, as a small smile crept across one side of her mouth.

[John]

“Something like that.” Claire’s smile faded as her thoughts became of the Program. She was one of the few fortunate operatives as her training came outside of the Program. But then she was, for lack of a better term, a SCAR brat. She had been born in the base. Her parents were members of SCAR, and if Claire ever had children, they would be a part of SCAR as well.

“If you join, you will be placed in the Program. It is a year long training commitment. It is also quite….gruelling.” It wasn’t really the right word to use and Claire knew it. Marine training was gruelling. The Program was cruel. It tested a potential operative in the most horrifying of ways. And many who had completed it had become…well…insane.

“Kristy, I can’t tell you what to do. But I can tell you that if you walk out that door, your world will never be the same again. You know about the things that truly exist. The stuff of nightmares. All I can offer you is a chance to serve a greater purpose and to be accepted for who you truly are.” Claire paused to sip her coffee again.

“The choice is yours,” Claire paused for a moment and looked at the glass. “I will tell you this much. Going back to your old life will not be as easy as you think. The creatures of the night. All the shit from the movies, it’s real. And now that you know that, you will see things differently.” But sometime different wasn’t better. Claire had to admit that she envied civilians. They had no clue what was going on and lived in ignorant bliss.

“As I said, if you wish to leave, you may. But I am hoping you will choose to join us.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

They also said Marine boot camp was going to be grueling, Kristy thought to herself.

A part of Kristy wanted to go through The Program and join SCAR, but a bigger part wanted to return to a normal life. One that didn't involve demons, or werewolves, or any other paranormal creature. Claire said it would be hard to go back, but Claire didn't have to be right.

"Look Claire, I don't want to serve a greater purpose. I had a sample of that already, and I'm fine with where I'm going in life right now," Kristy said ready to break off the conversation.

After a quiet moment Kristy stood up and, to her surprise, the door out of the interrogation room opened. She abruptly left the room and was met by a man in uniform. He had a bag of her belongings and ushered her to go with him.

"Right this way ma'am, your helicopter is waiting outside," he said rather rehearsed.

As Kristy followed the man, Claire's words echoed around in her head. She really did have a gift, and she spent so much of her life hiding it. It reminded her of her life before the Marines. Kristy had acted differently and hid things just to fit in and be popular at her high school. The more she walked, the more the memories began to eat at her.

Kristy's escort chirped out of the blue, "This is off the record ma'am, but I think its a real shame you aren't joining SCAR."

Kristy frowned then replied sarcastically, "This is on the record, you should really shut up."

The walk to the helicopter really began to show new light on Kristy's situation. This wouldn't be the end, the agency would have to make her sign forms and follow her around to make sure she isn't saying things she shouldn't. Claire did have to be right, and the more Kristy thought about it, the more she realized Claire had probably said those things just to get at Kristy. She stopped dead in her tracks, and the escort did too.

"Choppers this way, ma'am," he said just loud enough to be heard.

Kristy sighed and said defeated, "I'm not going to the chopper, just give me my bag."

Kristy slung the bag over one shoulder and trudged back into the compound. She found her way back to the interrogation room, and silently opened the door. Claire was still in the room, drinking her coffee.

"Where do I sign up?" Kristy said lowly.

[John]

Claire watched as Kristy left the room. As soon as she’d gone, another man entered and sat at the table.

“I guess you were wrong Claire.” The man was smiling and Claire gave him a snide look.

“I would like to make a request. Since I’m betting she won’t make it to the helicopter, if she returns, I want to see to training her personally. I think that she may require a little more tact than what we normally provide to the operatives.” Claire looked at the man expectantly who was pondering the request.

“Alright Claire. But if she doesn’t, then what.” The smile the man gave Claire was almost mischievous.

“I will run the gauntlet.” Claire had a stern look and the man nodded his head and exited the room. At this moment, Claire was praying that Kristy would return. The gauntlet was the final stage of training for the operatives. And more than one had died in trying to complete it. A look of relief appeared on her face when Kristy entered the room and asked where to sing up.

“We will get to that. There are just a few things I think you need ot understand first. The life of an operative is…well….hazardous, to say the least. And I want you to be sure that this is what you really want.” Claire paused, and getting up from the table, moved over to Kristy and took her hand.

“This isn’t like the military. Once you join, you are in for life. But I will tell you this. It is worth it. I have seen things that are brilliant and things that are quite disturbing. Hell, you’ve seen some of them yourself. But I will give you this. If you stay, if you make this commitment, I will repay you for the kindness that you showed me by training you personally.” Claire paused again and exhaled deeply.

“It’s not easy, but remember one thing, here you don’t need to be afraid of the powers you have. We will help you refine them and use them in ways you have never thought of. We will teach you how to fight with weapons you never thought you would use. But you will not be a hero. If that is your intention, then this is the wrong place for you. Sure you might save the world from time to time, but no one will ever know you had a hand in it.” At that moment, the door opened a a man walked in and placed a phone on the table. Once he had left, Claire picked it up and handed it to Kristy.

“Phone your family Kristy. Talk to them. Remember what exactly it is you’re fighting for. And then say good bye. For you won’t be able to see them for a while.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy nodded silently as Claire told her what she needed to do. She hadn't talked to her family in over a year. The most simple task she would probably take on made her want to die on the spot. Kristy drew a long breath, and then began dialing her mother's phone number.

The voice from the phone was a man's, "Hello?"

Kristy rolled her eyes, she had forgotten about her mother's new husband.

"Can you give Elise the phone, Eric? Its Kristy, her daughter," she made sure to add some emphasis on her last two words.

After a quiet sigh was given off from the phone, Kristy could hear some shuffling. Eventually her mother came onto the phone.

"Kristy? Why are you calling from National Security? More importantly, why haven't you called to check in for over a year?" Her mother sounded surprised.

"I'm sorry mom, I've been... busy with other things. I'm just calling to tell you that I'm being moved into a new branch of military. From the sound of it, I won't be able to check in as often, but I thought you would like to know. Can you pass the info onto my brothers?" Kristy answered, then added quietly, "And dad?"

"Sure thing honey, but..." Elise started to say on the phone, but Kristy cut her off.

"Listen mom, I hate to rush this, but I need to get going. I love you."

Kristy's mom sounded a little hurt, "Oh, well, stay safe honey. Love you too."

Kristy hung up the phone and let out a long sigh, then took a seat again. She wasn't in the mood to have a long conversation, or explain what she had been up to for the past couple years, with her mom. Kristy just wanted to get started, get her mind off things.

"So... When do we start?" Kristy said to Claire.

[John]

“We will start in the morning,” Claire looked at Kristy and had a remorseful look. “And I am sorry. That sounded like it was uncomfortable for you.” Claire had hoped that Kristy was on good terms with her family, but from the sounds of things, she wasn’t. Claire walked to the door and opened it. Yet another man wearing a lab coat was waiting outside the door and handed Claire what appeared to be a PDA. As the man walked away, Claire pressed some buttons and read the information on the PDA.

“It seems that at the moment, there aren’t any lodgings available. I hope you won’t mind, but until something becomes available, you can stay with me.” Claire motioned for Kristy to follow and the two began to walk down the sterile corridors of the SCAR facility.

Claire was hoping that Kristy wouldn’t mind a roommate. And for Claire, it would be nice to have someone to talk to that wasn’t a man. Of course, Claire could talk to her brother, but even with the events that occurred on the mission, Andrew was still a little distant.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy smiled slightly when Claire commented about her family situation, Uncomfortable is one way to put it...

In reality it wouldn't be as uncomfortable if Kristy wasn't so stubborn. Her mother had gotten married while she was serving in Iraq, and Kristy didn't like the man she had been wed to. Her brothers had been super successful in life, and she never heard from them. Kristy had never met her dad, he just sent her money twice a month. It wasn't so much that it was a family situation as it was a lack of any family situation.

"I don't mind rooming with you, Claire. I can't imagine it will be anymore cramped or uncomfortable than the bunks we had in the Sandbox," Kristy said, letting some cheer flow back into her voice as the two walked down the halls of the facility, "What are the rooms like here anyway?"

Kristy didn't exactly care much about the rooms. She just wanted to make some small talk to keep her from letting her mind race, she didn't want to get nervous. It was one way Kristy had learned to keep her nerves about her, as odd as it may be, it worked for her.

[John]

“Well actually, the rooms for new recruits are kind of like a shoebox. Small and cramped.” Claire smiled at Kristy and was happy that she seemed to be feeling better. “My room is…a little different.” Claire led Kristy to an elevator and the doors opened. The two stepped inside and Claire pushed the button marked “Level 4”. Even though they had started on level twenty three, the ride only took a few moments. And when the doors opened, the two exited and walked down another series of corridors.

After a few moments, Claire and Kristy arrived at a door with a biometric scanner. Claire placed her hand on it ad the metal door slid open. Claire led Kristy inside what served as her living quarters, and office, while she was at the SCAR base.

The main room had a large couch, as well as a desk with a computer terminal. The walls were adorned with various swords and other weapons of Japanese origin. On one side of the room was a counter which separated the room from a kitchenette. There were also two doors in the room,. One which led to the bedroom, the other to the bathroom.

“This is…well…home.” Claire continued smiling.” Or at least it is when I’m on base. I also have an apartment in Harrisburg. But to be honest, I don’t get there much. Fell free to help yourself to anything in the kitchen if you like. Mi casa es su casa. Oh, and you can take the bed. I have a feeling you are going to need it more than I do.” Claire gave a mischievous smile. “Not to mention that I am more than comfortable sleeping on the couch.” This of course was true. Many were the nights when Claire would fall asleep on the couch while doing paperwork. If it wasn’t for the fact that her clothes were in the bedroom, she most likely would never go in there.

“There are clothes in the dresser. Take a moment to get changed and make yourself comfortable. And while you do that, I will update your information on the computer as well as make a few requisitions for you.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy looked around Claire's room. It looked much better than the rundown apartment she was renting. She didn't care much for the swords or other various weapons, but she knew Claire well enough by now that it didn't strike her as odd.

"Thank you, Claire," Kristy said after Claire offered her food and clothing.

Kristy went into the room that Claire had said had clothes. Sliding open the top drawer of the dresser, Kristy quickly filtered through it with a small frown. Nothing she liked, or it could have been the fact that she always felt awkward in someone else's clothes. Kristy liked knowing that she had selected her clothes herself. The next drawer was more rewarding, Kristy found a comfy pair of dark jeans and a deep black shirt.

"If you don't mind me asking, Claire, what kind of info do you need to update? Wouldn't this agency have all the info they needed for my already on file?" Kristy asked as she pulled off her boots and changed into the jeans she had selected, "And what kind of requisitions would I need?" Kristy asked, as she slipped off her tank top and put on Claire's shirt.

Kristy couldn't see if Claire was even paying attention to her, but as she entered back into the main room she said apologetically, "Sorry for this spit-fire of questions. This is all really new to me."

The fridges cold air brushed against Kristy's cheeks, nipping slightly. Kristy scanned the fridge quickly, but didn't see anything she cared for at the moment. She settled for a banana and took a seat on the couch, waiting for Claire to give her some kind of answer.

[John]

“No worries,” Claire smiled politely moving to the computer. “I have to update you into our system and give you a security clearance. I also need to requisition clothing for you. Unfortunately, for the time being, you are confined to base so you won’t be able to retrieve any personal belongings.” Claire smiled again as she typed in information into the computer. Stopping for a moment she stared at the window in front of her, which held all of Kristy’s financial information.

“I also need to make a deposit into your bank account. All new recruits receive a sign up bonus if you will.” Claire entered the number into the computer and motioned for Kristy to come have a look. Claire really wanted to see the expression on Kristy’s face at the fifty thousand dollars that had just been deposited into her account

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy couldn't help but gawk at the amount of money that had been put into her bank account. She had never possessed anywhere near that amount of money in her life. The next thought that followed was what she could do with it, but then another thought came to her; being a part of SCAR probably wouldn't allow her much time to even remember she had money. Sill, Kristy couldn't believe the signing bonus that was given to her.

"Claire... I... This is amazing!" Kristy exclaimed, almost losing the bit of banana that was in her mouth. Taking a few breaths, she tried to calm herself, but she still kept saying, "Wow," underneath each breath.

Kristy went back to the couch. She was starting to get a little light headed, and she didn't want to fall over. Kristy kept shaking her head in disbelief.

[John]

Claire had to restrain herself from laughing as Kristy nearly fell over. It was the last time that Kristy was going to feel good for quite a while and Claire was more than happy to give her that bit of enjoyment before the program began. Claire finished typing everything into the computer and then swivelled the chair to face Kristy on the couch.

“Now I want to explain a little bit about what the Program entails.” Claire exhaled and the smile disappeared form her face. “The Program is not like normal military training. Eaach ne operative has a personal teacher. In your case, that will be me. For the next year, you belong to me. You will do whatever I tell you without question, no matter how insane my orders are. You will learn how to fight using a variety of weapons. As well you will be taught how to shoot better than you ever have. You will also learn how to reifne your ability. There will also be a lot of reading involved, but considering your experiences in Dunwich, you already know some of it.” Claire stopped and looked at the floor. She was trying, quite unsuccessfully, to hide how bad she was feeling. The next year of Kristy’s life was going to be hell, and the things that would be done to her, made Claire feel uneasy.

“Is there anything else you would like to know about. Not necessarily about the Program or SCAR, but anything at all.” Claire really liked Kristy and this final attempt at small talk was being done out of friendship. Claire just hoped that at the end of Kristy’s training, they would still be friends.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy smiled slightly when Claire mention she would learn to shoot better. It reminded her of her time in boot camp where her instructor told her she would be better off throwing her gun at the enemy. Her smile quickly faded though. She could tell that Claire was uneasy telling Kristy what her training would be like, and something told Kristy that Claire was barely scratching the surface of her training. This in turn made Kristy become a little uneasy, but she was sure she could do it. Kristy was sure that it couldn't be much more intense than her training and time with the Marines, but her ignorance could just get her deep over her head, or worse.

Claire's next question threw Kristy off a bit. She had to think for a moment, but eventually she couldn't come up with anything. Kristy wanted to keep talking though, it looked like it would give Claire some comfort.

Finally a question popped into Kristy's mind, "Why do you do it, Claire? Why did YOU join SCAR? It doesn't seem like you can just stumble upon this agency, figuratively speaking of course," Kristy smiled a little as she recalled how she had ran into them.

[John]

“To be honest with you. I was born here,” Claire’s voice had returned to normal with the change of subject. “Well not in this building, but within the organization. My parents were scientists for SCAR. Both my brother Andrew, and myself are what you would call SCAR brats. So we weren’t really given a choice in the matter. We we’re born into it.” Claire’s expression changed to one of curiosity.

“And what about you? What kept you form getting on that chopper? You were all set to leave. Why did you come back?” It was something Claire had been curious about and it just seemed like now was an appropriate time to ask.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy let out a long breath as she recalled why she decided to join SCAR.

"Its the same reason I joined the Marines, I guess," Kristy started, "I didn't have much going for me, and it seemed like a step in the right direction. The only difference now is that I guess I feel like I have more purpose in doing this. It also helps that coming into this branch, I have friends."

A small yawn came from Kristy's mouth. She hadn't gotten much good rest for a long while, and the bed in the other room was sounding more comfortable by the second.

"I think its time to get some rest, thanks for everything Claire," Kristy said as she got up off the couch.

With a nod and a smile, Kristy left for the room Claire had graciously offered her. The bed was much more comfortable than a cot or the bed in her apartment. Kristy quickly fell into a deep sleep from fatigue.

[John]

If it wasn’t for the fact that people kept arriving to drop things off for Kristy, Claire’s night would have been mostly uneventful. Everything that Kristy needed for her training in SCAR had arrived. There was a box full of clothing, including five tee shirts, five pairs of sweatpants, as well as combat fatigues and scrubs; which could serve as pyjamas. There were also two incredibly large boxes of books that held information on all manner of creatures which SCAR faced.

By the time Claire had finished everything she needed to do in preparation for the first day’s events, it was so late that she would only be able to get a couple of hours sleep. Setting the alarm she lay down on the couch and nodded off.

Four o’clock came early. Especially considering the fact that she had only gone to sleep at three. However, as this was more sleep than Claire usually got, she felt ready for the day’s events. Besides it didn’t take a whole lot of energy to stand still while watching someone else exert themselves. Moving to the computer, Claire turned on the microphone and opened a feed to the speakers in the bedroom.

“Rise and shine sleepy head!!” Claire had the volume turned full blast and assumed that she gave Kristy quite a start. Making her way to the kitchenette, Claire opened the fridge and removed some fruit and a carton of orange juice. Placing the fruit in the bowl, she poured two glasses of juice and turned on the coffee maker. Taking a banana from the bowl, she peeled it and started to eating. All the while her eyes focused on the door, waiting for Kristy to appear.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy may have been in a deep sleep, and she had every intention of sleep away the morning. Claire's speaker system said otherwise. Initially Kristy thought Claire was standing right above her on the bed and she tried to trip her by rolling. This only resulted with her falling on the floor, wrapped like a burrito in the sheets. Kristy moaned and stumbled out from the mess of sheets.

Kristy rubbed at her eyes, trying to stay awake. Groggily she grabbed at a pair of athletic shorts and a shirt she had put out the other night, and slipped into them. Her ears were still ringing from the blast that came from the speakers.

One thing Kristy had learned in the Marines was how to be ready for the morning fast, even if you were beat-dead tired. She emerged from Claire's room looking more awake than she felt. Silently she entered the kitchenette, letting her nose guide her, as her eyes were still adjusting to the morning.

"You rang?" Kristy asked, leaning against the counter and grabbing an apple from the bowl.

[John]

Claire stared at Kristy with a look of curiosity. Frankly she had expected that Kristy would be looking a little rougher than she did after the awakening which Claire provided. Still, what Claire had planned was no walk in the park and she wondered how long Kristy would actually last.

“Some things arrived for you.” Claire motioned at the boxes on the floor. “Have some coffee if you like and get ready. I want us to be at the gym by four thirty.” Claire downed her glass of orange juice and moved over to her desk. Removing one of the two pistols she owned, she tossed it to Kristy.

“Your weapons will not be issued for a while yet. So you will have need of this. I want you in combat fatigues and ready to leave ASAP.” Claire’s tone had gone cold and her face was expressionless.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy looked at the boxes that were left for her. She was surprised to see how much things had been brought for her. The boxes were labeled with various titles; books, fatigues, clothing, and other various things.

"How am I supposed to..." Kristy started.

She was cut off by the pistol that was tossed at her by Claire. Kristy tried to catch it, but she still wasn't fully attentive that morning. Her hand wrapped around the slide, but her grip on the handgun was bad. As it slipped, the hammer was pulled back into the firing position. It would surely fire off if it hit the ground, which would not only be a dangerous situation, but Claire probably wouldn't be too happy. Oddly enough, the pistol defied gravity as it floated inches from the ground. Kristy pulled the gun into her outstretched hand.

That was close.

Kristy set the pistol on the counter, examining it as she took a bite of her apple she had kept clutched in her other hand. It was a simple Colt M1911, a larger caliber pistol than what Kristy preferred, but nothing she hadn't experienced before. Passively, Kristy poured and downed a glass of juice. She then went to one the boxes that was out for her and pulled a duffel bag from it, along with some sweat pants, shirts, gun, and other things she felt she would need. Kristy left the bag on the floor, and went back into Claire's room to change into fatigues. She emerged a couple minutes later.

"I'm ready whenever you are, Claire," Kristy said quietly as she tossed the duffel bag over her shoulder.

[John]

Claire motioned for Kristy to follow and the two walked down the long corridor to the elevator. Once inside, Claire pushed the button for level seventeen and the elevator instantly began to move.

“Today, we are going to go for a little run,” Claire’s voice tone was clinical. “I just need to see what you are capable of.” Claire was starting to feel bad again. She could tell that Kristy was a little tired. The way she had dropped the pistol was proof of that.

The elevator doors opened into an extremely large gymnasium with all manner of exercise equipment. The room was relatively quiet, except for a couple of other early risers who were sparring on some mats on the far side of the gym. Claire led Kristy to an alcove that was on one of the walls. Inside was a large treadmill. The track was about four feet wide. And the control panel had a large digital display, as well as what appeared to be five large nozzles protruding form the underside. Claire turned on the treadmill and removed a remote control form the side of it. Stepping back, she turned to Kristy.

“The two red buttons will adjust the speed,” Claire voice still ran cold. “Get on. Get it up to a nice jog and get your ass moving.” Claire paused to let out a wry smile. “And let me know when you start to get tired.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy followed Claire through the halls, into the elevator, and to the large gym. The size alone was impressive, but the equipment was even more so. The grunts and shuffle of a few people sparring were the only sounds that filled the gym, besides the quiet footsteps of the pair. Kristy wouldn't be fighting that morning though, Claire said they, meaning Kristy, were going for a little run. In military terms that meant a lot.

Claire had been acting a lot different from the start of the morning. Her voice was missing the usual emotion and life it normally possessed. Instead it was replaced with a clinical, emotionless tone. Kristy began to realize that Claire was going to be like a drill instructor to her for her training.

"Yes, ma'am," Kristy said as she dropped her duffel bag and got on the large treadmill.

Kristy brought the treadmill to a fast jog. She would have pushed it farther if she wasn't wearing boots and fatigues, or going for distance. As she jogged, Kristy found her rhythm quickly and time began to fall away from her. Before she knew it, Kristy was barely five minutes in and was a little past her first mile. The next time she realized how long she had been running was after completing her third mile, she had slowed up a bit, but was till running a good time around sixteen minutes.

"How am I doing?" Kristy asked as she started to feel some burning in her legs.

[John]

“You’re doing just fine.” Claire smiled and pushed a button on the remote which increased the speed of the treadmill by one. “I think we just need to make things a little harder for you.” Claire pushed a second button and smoke started to billow out of one of the nozzles.

“Now let’s see how you do with this.” The smoke poured out of the nozzle and started to fill up the alcove. Claire stepped back a bit to avoid it. She could barely see Kristy on the treadmill now. Pressing the button again, she turned off the smoke and watched as Kristy continued to run. Claire felt a little bad for doing this. She was wondering if Kristy would fall. And Claire really didn’t want to see her get hurt. Though eventually, Kristy would get hurt.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy adjusted to the small change in speed with ease. The smoke was another thing though. As the smoke came about Kristy, she gasped, taking in a mouthful of the smoke. At first Kristy began to cough slightly, but soon she felt fine. When the smoke cleared she kept running. Kristy began to laugh lightly, but soon her laughter turned into a half breath. Her next breaths were shorter, and shorter. Kristy looked at Claire with a panicked look on her face, but soon Claire slipped away from her view. Her feet became the next thing Kristy saw as she fell and tumbled off the treadmill. Her lungs felt like they had shrunken to the size of a tennis ball, and she felt pain in her hand when she tried to protect her head from the fall. She tried to yelp, but no noise came from her mouth. At the moment, Kristy felt like she was going to die, but the more she breathed while lying on the floor of the gym, the more she felt her lungs able to hold more air.

Kristy struggled to get up, falling back down many times. For a moment she just laid down on the floor. She looked at her hand, some blood was coming from her palm where the treadmill had torn some skin off. After about a minute of lying on the floor, Kristy was able to get back to her feet. She looked at Claire, not sure if she should be embarrassed or pissed off at her, or some other feeling. Finally she silently stepped back onto the treadmill and brought it back up to a slightly slower speed. Her lungs were now fully functioning.

With a bounce in her voice from each step, Kristy asked, "What was that?!"

[John]

Claire winced as she watch Kristy fall of the treadmill. It Didn’t surprise Claire in the least. She knew that what she had done, especially without warning Kristy first was a little underhanded. But such was life in the Program. It was unfair.

Claire smiled to herself as Kristy got back on the treadmil and started running again. "What was that?!" Kristy asked the question and Claire’s cool tone came out.

“Smoke,” It was a sarcastic answer, but it was the truth. “Now in a moment, the wall in front of you is going to open. There will be moving targets. Hit as many of them as you can.” Claire tensed up and pushed the button on the remote which made the wall open. The targets were moving side to side and weren’t going very fast. Even someone with basic military training should be able to hit them. At least was Claire’s opinion of the targets. She was a mediocre shot at best and could hit them while running. Though she did tend to miss a few of them.

But this was SCAR. And basic military training wouldn’t cut it. Pressing a button on the remote, two things happened. First the treadmill sped up so that Kristy would have to sprint to stay on. But it was a gradual increase and Claire figured that she would be able to stay on her feet. Though she was wondering how Kristy would react to the nozzle’s spray of ice cold water hitting her in the face.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Smoke? No way really Claire?

Kristy was starting to get annoyed with Drill Sergeant Claire Hannon. It was such a dramatic change of character, that Kristy didn't believe it was even possible. Claire informed her she would be shooting targets on the run.

Oh great, this is going to be awesome, Kristy thought sarcastically.

With the M1911 in one hand, Kristy pulled the slide back and gripped it with both hands. Trying to remember all the training she had been taught about using a pistol and shooting on the run. She was already doubting herself, Kristy didn't have much faith in her ability to shoot. The wall slid open, Kristy could now feel the sweat starting to bead up across her forehead.

Here goes nothing.

The treadmills speed started to increase at that moment. Kristy took a moment to get up to speed, sprinting. She took aim at the first target and watched her sights bob around the target, it took her almost ten seconds to fire her first shot. It was a miss. the next shot she took was quicker, but it still missed. The fourth shot was a fluke, it hit one of the round, moving targets almost dead on. The sound of the shot echoed across the gym walls, amplifying the sound.

Don't push your luck, Kristy thought as she took aim for her sixth shot, only three shots left in the clip...

[John]

Claire watched as Kristy fired. So far she had managed to hit only one target. Not bad for a first time considering the conditions Kristy was being subjected to. But Claire still had a couple of things in mind yet. She had been counting and knew that Kristy only had three shots left. She was betting Kristy would miss with all three. Deep down, Claire was hoping she was wrong.

Claire pushed another button on the remote and a light flashed form the panel on the treadmill. It wasn’t a high intensity light Nothing that would hurt Kristy. More like that of a flashbulb on a camera. It would most likely blind her for a second. Claire felt really bad and as the flash went off, she slowed the treadmill slightly.

[Cookies Ahoy]

The flash hit Kristy's eyes just before she fired off her sixth round. Obviously, it missed wide. Kristy let one of her hands off the pistol's grip to rub her eyes. As her eyes adjusted back to the gym's lighting, Kristy saw that the treadmill was slowing down. She put her hand towards the front of the treadmill to steady herself, she didn't want to fall again. Kristy was starting to feel humiliated. Was this what the first couple days of her SCAR training would be like?

As Kristy rested her sights on the seventh target she heard a small click noise come from a nozzle. A split second later a spray of water was coming at Kristy. Instinctively, and out of frustration, she immediately grabbed for it with her telekinesis. Before she could even feel the sensation of the invisible strings wrapping around the body of water it was directed to her left. Which happened to be where Claire was standing. Kristy fired off her seventh shot and looked back at Claire.

"I'm so sorry, Claire!" Kristy said with some panic showing in her voice.

Kristy had essentially hit Claire, her instructor, with a water balloon. The thoughts of what might happen next immediately ran through her head as she kept her sprint up on the treadmill.

Serves her right. Kinda.

[John]

The water hit Claire in the face and she smiled. She had been wondering how long it would be before Kristy used her power. Though Claire was hoping she would have used it a little differently. Claire had to remind herself that Kristy had spent her whole life trying to keep her power a secret. And therefore wouldn’t be able to use it with a lot of control. Wiping the water form her face, Claire pushed a button on the remote and the treadmill came to a gradual halt. As Kristy stepped off, the smile faded form Claire’s face.


“You know Kristy, you could have actually hit all the targets. Despite the distractions.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

You know Kristy, you could have actually hit all the targets. Despite the distractions.

Kristy kept hearing Claire's voice ring in her head.

How in the world could I have hit the targets? With distractions or not, I still have horrible accuracy. She's insane. Or stupid, or both, Kristy thought to herself, letting a small sign of frustration show on her face.

Kristy balled up her fist, letting small droplets of blood seep through her fingers. She was mad, not just at Claire, but with herself. Kristy had not been in training for not even an hour and she was ready to hit Claire across the head. Finally, Kristy started to take some deep breaths to calm herself.

After a long pause, Kristy asked, holding back her anger and frustration, "How?"

That simple question somehow took the place of everything else Kristy wanted to say.

[John]

Claire smiled at the question. This would prove to be Kristy’s first real lesson in the Program. Claire only hoped she passed the test. Claire took the gun form Kristy and crouched down on the floor. Placing the weapon on the floor, Claire gave it a push and it slid about twenty feet across the gym. Rising to her feet, Claire looked at Kristy with an emotionless expression.

“Pick it up.” Claire pointed at the gun and waited to see what Kristy would do.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy watched the pistol slide across the floor, making a soft 'whhh' noise as it moved. A questioning look came across her face. The order was to pick up her pistol, nothing special, nothing difficult. That's what puzzled Kristy so much. A part of her wanted to just go grab the handgun, but another part was afraid it would be like her experience on the treadmill. Kristy raised her eyebrows at Claire, like Claire had just asked her what color brown dirt was.

"Just pick it up?" Kristy said, questioning her trainer.

Claire nodded, and Kristy began to walk towards the black pistol's resting place. The gym had gotten quieter and Kristy thought her footsteps had gotten louder. She crouched down and wrapped her fingers around the 1911.

Turning back to Claire, Kristy asked, "Okay, Now what?"

[John]

Claire frowned and shook her head. She had hoped for something else. But perhaps she should explain herself. Kristy, it appeared, didn’t fully understand where she was.

“Kristy,” Claire’s tone was passive and friendly. “Don’t you understand why we're here. This is all a test. Everything you will do each day is a test in some way. But most importantly, it is to get you to think outside of the box.” Approaching Kristy, Claire stared at her and made her eyes go black.

“Do you see? Look at my eyes. This is SCAR. Spectral Combat Assault and Recon. We fight against the paranormal. And in all truth. The best weapon against the paranormal is that which you carry inside you.” Claire paused for a moment and her eyes returned to normal. When she activated her ability she read Kristy and knew that she was upset. But Claire didn’t blame her. She placed a hand on Kristy’s shoulder and continued.

“I understand that you aren’t used to using your ability. But here, no one is going to judge you. W are actually going to encourage you to use it in ways you never thought of. I said before you could have hit every target. What If I told you that with the right training you could actually angle the path of a bullet?” Claire took the gun form Kristy and slid it back into the alcove. The smile faded from her face and she took on her clinical tone again.

“Pick it up. And this time, don’t use your hands.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Shoulda saw that one coming... Kristy thought to herself as she cursed under her breath.

Kristy eyed Claire suspiciously as she explained things to her. Kristy was unfamiliar with regularly using her telekinesis. Normally she used it only out of desperation, if she was capable of physically completing a task, she did so. It was just part of what made Kristy herself, and she didn't want special attention because of that inhuman ability she possessed.

“Pick it up. And this time, don’t use your hands," Claire ordered.

Kristy drew a long sigh and replied, "If you say so, Claire."

Silently, Kristy outstretched her left hand. With her mind she let loose what she could only describe as 'mental strings'. Focusing on the strings, they slipped around the pistol and lifted it up into the air. Kristy mentally began pulling the strings back, and so the gun came back. She wrapped her hand around the Colt's grip tightly.

"How was that?" Kristy asked.

[John]

“That was fine,” Claire smiled at Kristy. “You need to get used to using your ability. I know you think it’s a curse. But I assure you, it’s not. Now even though I’m not telekinetic, and can still help you. But right now, I would like to test the limits. Follow me.” Claire led Kristy out of the alcove and across the gym to an are that had a pane of glass in front it. Claire stepped behind the glass, throwing a clip to Kristy as she did.

“Now what I want you to do is reload and then reach into the gun with your power. I want you to feel the bullet. Once you can, I want you to aim at my head and pull the trigger. Don’t worry, the glass is bullet-proof. I want you to try and direct the bullet so that it doesn’t hit me.” Claire again felt a little bad. She knew other telekinetics, some who could actually do what she was requesting of Kristy. But Claire knew that it wasn’t easy to do and she hoped that Kristy didn’t pass out from it.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy felt slightly accomplished by redeeming herself after picking up the pistol telekinetically. Obediently, Kristy followed Claire out of the gym and into a new room. Claire wanted to test her limits, which in all honesty, Kristy didn't have much faith in. She almost broke a sweat grabbing the pistol. From the small amount of time she had been with SCAR, she could already tell that this test was going to take a toll on her.

Upon entering the room, Claire gave Kristy another clip. She quickly loaded it, but gawked a little at her instructions. She was to aim at Claire's head, but make the bullet miss. The only thing between the two was a pane of glass. Bullet proof or not, Kristy didn't have much faith in the glass. From her experience with it, there was always something that could break through. The pistol probably didn't have much of a chance, but Kristy was still skeptical.

Kristy raised the pistol up and took aim at Claire's head.

So far so good, Kristy thought.

That was until Kristy met Claire's eyes. Her concentration began to falter as she thought of firing a round at her friend. It took her a few more seconds to build up her focus again. She let her mind loose some strings. They crept into the small cracks of the .1911 and felt around for the bullet. Once she found it, she put a tight grip around it, hoping to be able to guide it as it flew. She didn't have much faith in this concept though.

Finally, Kristy pulled the trigger. She heard a bang, and a tearing noise. Kristy also felt her back hit the ground. Her head rolled to her left, bringing her sight on her hand. The pistol had fired, but she had kept a tight grip on the bullet, causing the explosion to violently tear the handgun apart. Her hand and forearm were cut and burnt from it. As Kristy watched blood leak from her left arm, her vision began to blur and then fade away.

[John]

Claire watched in shock as the gun exploded and Kristy flew backwards. She had wanted to put Kristy’s ability to the test but had not expected this. Moving quickly, she retrieved a first aid kit from the wall of the gym and immediately went to work patching up Kristy. It took her about thirty minutes as she had to us tweezers to pick shards of metal for her hands and arm. Claire bandaged up Kristy and then removed some smelling salts. She waved them under Kristy’s nose and she slowly opened her eyes.

“Don’t worry,” Claire was smiling and her tone was calm. “It’s nothing serious. You’re lucky you were here with me or it might have been much worse.” The smile quickly faded from Claire’s face and her tone became clinical.

“Now give me ten laps of the gym and we will take a break.” Claire turned away form Kristy. “I’m sorry.” The words escaped Claire’s lips as little more than a whisper. She owed Kristy her life and felt bad for the things that she was doing to her. Regardless, Claire had a job to do. And Kristy could have it much worse. Other instructors would have made her do the laps without patching her up first.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Passing out from extreme focus was something Kristy hadn't thought about. She hadn't used her ability enough to remember that could happen, but it did bring back the memories of when she had put herself into a coma. Kristy shuddered a little as she opened her eyes. The light was brighter than she remembered, and Kristy was forced to close her eyes again. Pulling herself up, Kristy opened her eyes again, greeted by a first aid kit wielding Claire. Kristy looked at her left hand, Claire had made quick work of the open wounds, but the burns would have to heal on their own. Apparently the cuts on her hand and arm wasn't as bad as she thought before she had passed out. Kristy nodded appreciatively as Claire informed her on the condition of her wound.

The next thing that came from Claire's mouth was a little unexpected. Kristy was to run ten laps around the gym, just after being knocked out. Unsteadily, Kristy got to her feet and began to jog her laps.

"What do you expect?" Kristy said under her breath as she jogged, "This isn't supposed to be a walk in the park. Put on the big girl pants, finish these laps, and take a well deserved break. One step at a time..."

The ten laps took Kristy longer than it would usually take her, but she eventually finished them.

[John]

Claire thought Kristy looked like she was going to pass out, but who could blame her? Between the running and the injury, most would be lying on the floor throwing up. But Kristy impressed Claire. She ahd resolve and pushed herself as hard as she could. Unfortunately, that meant Claire was going to have to push harder.

Claire led Kristy from the gym and into a cafeteria. As she entered, the server tossed an apple at her. She yelled “thank you “ at him and then proceeded to polish the apple on her shirt. Sitting down in the first empty chair she saw, Claire looked at Kristy and smiled.

“Grab yourself whatever you want then come and sit down. I am sure you have some things you may wish to say to me and in here you may feel free.” Claire took a bite of her apple and waited.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy entered the cafeteria, towing behind Claire by a few feet. She wasn't very hungry, but Kristy would definitely need some energy for later tasks; the break was a nice change of pace too. Kristy made her way to the serving line and patiently waited her turn. The wait wasn't too long. Kristy took a turkey sandwich that was brimming with vegetables.

Taking a seat next to Claire, Kristy looked at Claire silently. She took a bite of her sandwich, then set it back on the plate. She washed the bite down with a bottle of water. Kristy was taking her time, she didn't want to say her first question wrong.

Finally, Kristy opened her mouth and spoke calmly, "Is this a regular day of training for SCAR? Because if it is, I might need to get that signing bonus raised," Kristy ended jokingly, trying to sound like training wasn't taking a toll on her.

What Kristy really wanted to scream was, "Are you trying to kill me?!", but she didn't want to sound weak in front of Claire. She would soldier through the training, even if it killed her.

A rather large piece of tomato sat between the two slices of wheat bread, Kristy slid it out from the sandwich. She disliked her food's flavor being unbalanced.

[John]

“Actually Kristy,” Claire smiled and her tone was friendly. “I’ve been taking it easy on you. The Program is intended to be brutal, and it is cruel. But we aren’t conducting military training here. We are training to fight monsters. More importantly we are training with our abilities. Understand Kristy, we have an advantage in battle. And we need to be able to use that advantage effectively.” Claire paused and took a bite of her apple. Once she had swallowed it, she continued.

“Truth be told Kristy,” Claire’s tone sounded concerned. “If today were in the field, you would be dead. It’s my job to make sure that doesn’t happen. The only reason I am taking it easy on you is cause you have hidden your powers, so this is all new to you. I honestly didn’t expect the gun to explode and I apologize, I should have started smaller.” Claire paused for a second before taking another bite of her apple.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy dropped her sandwich back onto the plate, causing it to fall apart slightly. She grabbed a napkin and began to wipe at her face. She was trying not to come back at Claire with some excuse. The truth was, she didn't know how to use her power well and she also didn't know how to shoot well. It was a miracle that she even made it out alive in Dunwich. Sometimes, truth is hard to swallow.

Kristy drew in a small breath. She was a little frustrated at the moment.

"I guess I'll have to learn quick then," Kristy said to Claire.

[John]

“Like I said,“ Claire smiled and placed her hand on Kristy’s. “It’s not your fault. We generally do push new operatives to the limits. Unfortunately, due to not being used to your ability, it takes less for you to become fatigued or even hurt by your ability. And don‘t forget, your training will take a year. So you have plenty of time” Claire pulled her hand away and took another bite of her apple. Swallowing it, she continued.

“It was a lot for me to ask,” Claire’s tone was apologetic. “But I would like to try something if you’ll let me.” Claire picked up a plastic knife from a container on the table and placed it in front of Kristy.

“I want you to levitate the knife off the table and just hold it in mid air. I am going to read your emotions. Try to stay calm and focused. Your ability is not something to be feared. I will help you to stay in control of your emotions.” Claire smiled again and her eyes trued black. Instantly she could feel everyone in the room, and she pushed back focusing only on Kristy.

“You Don’t have to do this if you don’t want to.” Claire’s tone was clinical. “It’s just something I want to try.

[Cookies Ahoy]

"I'll try, I don't really see what this will prove though," Kristy replied.

Kristy looked at the plastic knife lying on the table in front of her. She stared at it for a few moments before beginning to wrap the telekinetic threads around the knife. The threads lifted the knife from the table at a quick rate. Kristy focused more, trying to keep the knife steady. She kept her focus trained on the knife, keeping it a foot off the table.

After a few minutes, Kristy's focus began to dwindle. The knife began to shake while being suspended in midair. Her focus was beginning to fade, random thoughts were slowly seeping in.

Don't lose focus. The knife! THE KNIFE!

Kristy's focus honed in on the knife a little more, but it was becoming obvious she was beginning to push her limits.

[John]

Claire could feel Kristy's control beginning to slip and she immediately reached out with her emotions. She took control of Kristy's emotions. She used her own focus to override Kristy’s and Claire could feel the stress against Kristy’s mind form using her ability. She sent a calming soothing wave over Kristy and forced her to relax.

“”Just focus,” Claire’s was whispering. “Shut out all the outside noises. Forget about everything. Just focus on the knife.” Claire eased off her control of Kristy, but still kept reading her to see what would happen.

“You have to control your emotions.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

A sudden calm began to wash over Kristy. Her thoughts became more blocked out. Kristy noticed Claire was saying something, but she was becoming more and more blurred. Soon only Kristy and the knife were the only things in the world. Colors were becoming washed our and desaturated. The knife stood stiffer than it had been when it started.

A searing pain was starting to grow in the back of Kristy's mind. Her focus was taking its toll on her. Kristy was unsure on how long she could keep the knife in the air. She wasn't even sure how much time had passed anymore. The knife was the only thing that existed at the moment, though the pain in her head was beginning to build, threatening to break her concentration.

Eventually the knife began to float back down to the table. Kristy's world was returning, and the pain was turning into a throbbing headache. Stubborn was one word Kristy definitely knew though, and she was set on keeping the knife in the air as long as possible. She adjusted her hold on the knife, only mentally grabbing at the ends. The pain in her head began to ease up.

A crisp snap came from the knife. Kristy let go with her mind. She had pressured the two sides too much, causing it to break in half. Kristy sighed, then began to rub at her temples. She took a drink of water hoping that would ease the pain her headache was causing.

[John]

Claire could tell that Kristy’s use of the telekinesis’s caused her pain. And it was something she was no stranger to. Claire still remembered the things that had happened to her when she first found out about her own. But this was different. Kristy knew what she could do, she just wasn’t used to doing it. Getting Kristy accustomed to her abilities would take some time.

“The pain you well will go away in time,” Claire’s eyes returned to normal and she took another bite of her apple. After she swallowed it, she continued. “For now, when you use your ability, I will work with you. At least until you learn some control.“ Claire’s voice became more serious.

“And try not to push yourself too hard, Remember you are using your mind. That pain you felt could kill you.” Claire had heard stories of people who had strokes from the use of mental abilities. She shuddered slightly. “But I assure you, in time, you will be able to hold control for much longer periods of time.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy sat at the table still massaging her head. She hadn't felt a pain like this for years. Claire began to tell her that she could kill herself if she pushed her telekinesis too hard. Kristy smiled and let out a small laugh.

"Claire, I know all these things. I haven't told you the whole story of why I don't use my telekinesis. I guess now is as good a time as ever to do it," Kristy leaned back on her chair, still rubbing at her head, she closed her eyes as she began, "Before my ability became apparent, I was a track star set to get a full ride scholarship to college. Before my last race, I got deathly sick, and while laying in a hospital bed, I started to feel different. I don't know how to describe it, but I almost knew I could perform telekinetic feats. I practiced moving objects around while I was in the hospital, and I became proficient with my power. Eventually I got sick of being in the hospital, so I tried to lift myself out of that place. Things didn't go so well though, I ended up putting myself in a coma for two weeks. When I woke up, I decided it would be safer to not use telekinesis anymore, it would also keep me protected from questioning people. So what I'm saying is that I know fundamentals, I know I have limits, but I think I forgot how to hone my ability," Kristy sat forward again, opening her eyes, "I guess what I'm saying is, and this is something tough for me to ask, I need help."

Kristy leaned over the table, and began to finish her sandwich. It felt good for her to let a lot of frustration go and tell somebody her story.

[John]

“Don’t worry Kristy,” Claire smiled. “I will help you. That is what I am here for after all. I also owe you my life, and I hope to be able to repay that.” Claire took the final bite of her apple and then tossed the vor into a nearby garbage can. Swallowing it, she continued speaking.

“I do think you have had enough for today though,” Claire’s expression changed to one of concern. “When you finish eating, go to the infirmary and get your hand properly patched up. After that you may want to start cracking some of the books in the room. There will be a test.” Claire’s smile returned and she giggled slightly.

“And Kristy? I never got to thank you for what happened on the mission.” Claire looked right into Kristy’s eyes. “Thank you.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy looked at Claire with a look of understanding. She couldn't find the words to say. In the end she just gave her a nod.

Kristy finished her meal slowly, her headache still takings its toll on her. Eventually she finished though. She tossed the paper plate into the trash and made her way to the infirmary; the only problem was that she didn't know where that was. Kristy spent about an hour wandering through the halls of the SCAR facility. She didn't feel the need to ask for directions, she was too stubborn. When she found the door marked 'Infirmary', she pushed it open. The lights were off, it would seem that the doctor was out for a moment. Kristy sat, not so patiently, waiting for the doctor. After fifteen minutes had passed, Kristy was about to go patch herself up when a doctor came back eating a greasy hamburger. He cleaned himself up and Kristy quickly explained her injury to the doc. He dressed her wounds quickly and effectively and Kristy was on her way to her room in no time.

When she arrived at her designated room, she noticed boxes waiting at her door. Opening up the door, she saw how much smaller her quarters were compared to Claire's. Kristy slid the boxes into the room, not eager to open any of them. Grudgingly though, Kristy pulled out a book labeled 'The Basics of the Paranormal'. She fell asleep before she could finish the first three pages.

[John]

For the next seven days, Claire continued to run Kristy ragged. Claire was surprised by the progress Kristy showed. She had started to become more comfortable with using her power, but she still had a long way to go. Kristy was also made to spend four hours a day on the shooting range. Her accuracy started to improve, and Claire was confident that she would make an excellent operative one day.

There was still, however, the issue of Kristy’s power. She needed more practice with it, and although the Program was dangerous, it generally wasn’t life threatening. Claire had already seen Kristy react once when life was on the line, but she wanted to see it again.

Claire left a note on Kristy’s door instructing her to go for a run. Claire had some things to attend to and would contact her later. Claire did have some things to set up off base, and when she returned, she made her way to one of the briefing rooms. Sitting down at the computer, Claire turned on the microphone and spoke into it.

“Kristy Masterson, please report to briefing room three in civilian clothes. That is all.” Now there was nothing to do but wait.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy had been running laps in the gym, as per Claire's orders she had left with her that morning. It seemed odd, normally Claire would start the mornings off with what Kristy called a short visit to Hell. She welcomed the light exercise though. It was relaxing to not have orders barked at her all morning. The sound of the intercom interrupted Kristy's enjoyable run though.

“Kristy Masterson, please report to briefing room three in civilian clothes. That is all.”

It was another unexpected change in her routine. Kristy looked at the intercom as if asking for more information, but all announcements that came from the speaker were brief. No need to let the secret agency know everything.

Kristy left the gym huffing slightly. She took the elevator to her room, slightly excited to wear civvy clothes again. It had been what seemed like an eternity from the last time Kristy had worn her own clothes. She had even been given permission to purchase clothes online for these certain instances. As Kristy entered her small quarters that was packed with the uniforms, sweats, and books that she had been given. Those items took up the bulk of the space in her room. Her bed took up another portion, and as if to add insult to injury there wasn't an underneath for her bed. SCAR didn't want recruits to become to comfortable. Her laptop she had been issued sat on her bed, and a small box held her small array of civilian clothing. Kristy was a little peeved that SCAR only allowed her to purchase three outfits.

Kristy tossed her white t-shirt against the wall, letting gravity pull it down into a limp heap on the ground. She stood on her hands and pulled her sweatpants and shoes off with her mind, Claire encouraged her to use her ability for some of her daily activities. Kristy already knew which outfit she wanted to wear. She put on a black blouse and a dark red skirt that was cut just above her knees. A pair of black tights and red boots followed. Kristy looked at herself in the small mirror she was issued. A few loose strands of hair were present from her workout. She held her breath for a second, then released. Kristy didn't want to keep Claire waiting. An idea rocketed to the front of her mind as if on demand. Kristy pushed out with her telekinesis and adjust her hair as she saw fit. The process took a matter of seconds and looked as if she had spent a lot of time on it. With a smile to her reflection, Kristy left her quarters.

Kristy's flat soles bounced through the halls to the briefing room. She tried to ignore glances and double takes she received as she trekked to the briefing room, but Kristy couldn't repress her smile. The door to briefing room 3 turned on its hinge quietly. Claire sat waiting, and Kristy quietly took a seat.

"What's up?" Kristy asked cheerfully.

[John]

Claire smiled as Kristy entered the room and motioned for her to sit down. A look of concern came over Claire’s face.

“I need your help. I have to do a small mission.” Claire’s expression became serious. “It shouldn’t be a problem. Just a simple intel pick up. But the higher ups want me to take backup.” Claire started to smile again. It was in an attempt to hide the blatant lie she was telling. She kept her gaze fixed firmly on Kristy and continued.

“Now you don’t have to come if you don’t want to,” Claire tilted her head sideways. “But, it will give you a chance to get out of here for a bit. And the pickup isn’t until tonight. The pickup is in Harrisburg, so I need to stop by my apartment. And as we have time, we could go out for a late lunch. I know a great little place, if you like Italian.” Claire was smiling and was speaking as if she was talking to friend. It was how she felt about Kristy. And at least this part of the story was true.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy looked at Claire with a questioning look.

"SCAR will let you take a trainee out into the field?" She asked innocently.

Of course you want to go, you idiot. Just accept her offer before you offend her and she decides to make you do another Avalanche test, the thought jumped out at Kristy almost from nowhere.

Before Claire could answer Kristy added, "I mean, don't get me wrong. I would love to get out of here for a while, and lunch sounds great. The food here leaves something to be desired," Kristy smiled, then crossed her legs in the chair she had taken, "I won't be breaking any protocols will I?"

Claire's offer sounded great. Kristy didn't want to pass up an opportunity to get out. The idea of going out to a nice lunch, and Italian was one of Kristy's favorites. Kristy couldn't help but smile with excitement.

[John]

“Since there won’t be any combat,” Claire smiled. “There won’t be anything to worry about.” Claire felt really bad right now, but at least she wasn’t showing it. Of course there would be combat. Kristy had shown quite a bit of progress in her training. Now it was time to see her in action.

“Of course we will have to make a stop by the quartermaster.” Claire continued to smile. “It would be against protocol for you to go off base unarmed. And I think we will need ot get you a jacket.” Claire knew that there would be something that would definitely suit Kristy’s ensemble. Which Claire really liked. It looked good on her.

“So what do you say? You coming or not?” Claire smiled with a hopeful look on her face. “If you want to get the quartermaster. Get a jacket and some weapons, pistols would be the most appropriate. And silver rounds. Better to be safe than sorry. Claire pushed a button the computer in front of her and a panel opened on the table in front of Kristy, revealing a space with a cell phone in it.

“Take the phone. There are a few numbers already programmed into it. Mine being on of them. There is also a map of the base on it. Might make it easier for you to find your way around. Now get going and meet me at the entrance to the motor pool.” Claire giggled and motioned for Kristy to get moving. Claire actually was looking forward to this. She spent most of her time associating with men, and it would be nice to have a girl’s day out. It was something she hadn’t had in a long time.

[Cookies Ahoy]

"Yeah, of course I'll come," Kristy responded happily.

She took the phone that had just been given to her and played with it a little. The interface was pretty straightforward, though it didn't look like any cell phone she had seen before. She thumbed through windows on the touchscreen, then tucked it into the small black purse she had brought with her. With a last friendly nod, Kristy stood up and got ready to visit the quartermaster to get a weapon and a jacket.

"Sounds great, Claire. I'll meet you in a few, and thanks for everything," Kristy said on her way out.

Immediately Kristy thanked whoever had decided to put a map of the building on her phone. She would have never been able to find the quartermaster's armory without. Upon entering, the man at the desk looked up at Kristy.

"Going out?" he asked nonchalantly.

"Nope. Just thought I'd walk around the facility all dressed up for no reason," Kristy said jokingly, "Claire actually sent me down here to get a gun and a jacket."

The man pulled out a file that had been sitting in his fax machine since before Kristy had arrived. He looked at the order form and went back into the armory. A couple minutes later he arrived holding a charcoal colored jacket and a Walther P99, along with two extra clips for it. He slid them across the desk with a wink, then turned back to his computer.

Kristy left with a thank you, and made her way to the motorpool, glancing at her phone's map occasionally. She also stuffed the P99 and the clips, which contained silver rounds, into her purse. She looked at the jacket she had been given. At first glance it was a simple designer jacket, nice clear color, a large belt across the waist, but on the inside it had been reinforced slightly with a thin material that felt almost like kevlar. Kristy smiled and slipped the jacket on and made her way to the motorpool to meet Claire.

[John]

Claire stood at the door to the motor pool with her keys in hand, wearing a black leather jacket, black jeans and a red tee shirt. She smiled as Kristy approached and opened the door. The motor pool was quite large and housed all manner of vehicles. Claire pushed a button on her keying and an alarm sound came from a black Dodge Viper. The doors opened by themselves and Claire got in the driver’s side, motioning for Kristy to enter the passenger’s side. Claire pushed a button on the steering column and a door opened at the far end of the building. Starting the engine, Claire slammed her foot on the accelerator and the car sped off.

“I hope it’s not a problem,” Claire was smiling as she quickly shifted and the car sped off onto the road. “But I really like to drive fast.” Claire rounded a corner doing eighty and it drifted around. Claire was an amazing driver, if not a little reckless.

“So you never did say, is Italian okay? I also know a nice Mexican place.” Claire was grinning ear to ear as they drove off down the highway, swerving between the other cars.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy was amazed at what she saw at the motorpool, and Claire's Viper was no exception. Kristy hopped in the sports car casually. Closing the door carefully, Kristy put on her seat belt and adjusted her skirt. The engine came to life with a satisfying rumble that made Kristy wish she could be the one driving.

“I hope it’s not a problem, but I really like to drive fast,” Claire said as she sped around a corner at a crazy speed.

Kristy wasn't exactly ready for someone that drove as wild as she did.

With a small smile Kristy said, "That's not a problem," the car shot through the on ramp of the highway, "I drive my motorcycle like this, and when I drive a HUMVEE..." Kristy giggled a little, "Let's just say anything is fair game when I'm in one."

As the Viper traveled through the high speed maze called traffic, Claire asked if Italian was okay.

"Italian sounds fantastic," Kristy said over the sound of the engine.

[John]

Claire sped down the road, pushing the car to it’s limits. She felt free and alive, and the fact the Kristy was enjoying herself as well, made the experience all the more pleasurable. It didn’t take long for them to arrive in Harrisburg, and Claire navigated the city streets until she came to what appeared to be a five star restaurant.

La Palazzo, as it was called, was quite large and adorned with columns of stone, to give an ancient Roman feel. The door had a canopy over it, and two statues sat at either side. Claire screeched the car to a halt and put on the emergency brake. Quickly, one of the valets moved to the driver’s side and opened the door for her. Claire grabbed her purse and stepped out, the valet moving to open the door for Kristy as well. The valet was about eighteen and actually blushed when Claire winked at him.

Caire led Kristy into the restaurant and to a podium where the maitre-d was, clothed in a tuxedo. As soon as he saw the women approach, he smiled and raised his hands in a welcoming fashion.

“Ah Miss Hannon. Welcome back. Always a pleasure to have you in our establishment.” The man had an Italian accent and was smiling.

“Good afternoon Vincenzo,” Claire smiled. “Could you perhaps squeeze in my friend and I. And if you do have a table for us, could you put out a bottle of the fifty-eight Brunello di Motalcino reserve.”

“I will have a table for you momentarily.” Vincenzo walked through the doors which led into the restaurant. When the doors opened, The sound of the patrons inside echoed throughout the hallway. And it was easy to see, form how the patrons were dressed, that Claire and Kristy were extremely underdressed for the establishment. Taking a menu form the podium, Claire handed it to Kristy.

“Have a look at the menu,” Claire smiled. “But I should let you know that the specials are usually to die for. Oh. And you may get some strange looks for the other patrons. Don’t worry about it. Personally, I like fucking with them. And I doubt any of them just ordered a thousand dollar bottle of wine”

[Cookies Ahoy]

As the Viper squealed to a stop at the valet parking, Kristy braced herself for the sudden deceleration. The valet opened Claire's door, the other was walking towards Kristy's side. Unaware of what exactly was happening Kristy opened her door and slung her purse over her shoulder. She looked to her left and noticed the stunned valet. Embarrassment washed over Kristy.

"Oh... Umm... Sorry," Kristy said quietly.

The valet waved her off with a smile, and Kristy turned back towards the restaurant, Claire was next to her. Kristy was a little stunned at where they happened to be. She wasn't sure if she had heard the name of the restaurant from a magazine, but it sounded familiar, although most high end restaurant's names sounded the same. It was obvious just from the look of the place that the meals would be expensive. Kristy felt a little out of her comfort zone. As the two entered, they were greeted by an acquaintance of Claire. As they entered, Kristy noticed how under dressed she and Claire were. Kristy felt a little embarrassed, but Claire quickly comforted her. She decided to approach the thing as a joke, it would be more fun.

The two were seated at a table after a few minutes of waiting. Kristy let the waiter pull her seat out, take her jacket, but didn't bother letting him touch her purse. Claire recommended the special, and Kristy took the recommendation. She didn't really know what exactly anything on the menu was. Kristy felt a little sadness inside when Claire mentioned she had just gotten a thousand dollar bottle of wine for the two. Kristy didn't drink, and it always seemed to be a downer for people she was with. She decided to cross that bridge when they got there. She was supposed to be enjoying herself.

"So Claire," Kristy started casually, "How did you swing getting into this joint?"

[John]

“It’s amazing where a CIA ID can get you,” Claire smiled at Kristy. “And by the way, I almost forgot. Here’s yours.” Claire reached into her jacket pocket and handed Kristy a small black leather billfold.

“The picture is blank. When you have a chance, holed your drivers licence photo up to it and it will adapt the picture.” Claire giggled a little.

“Sorry. It’s what I love most about SCAR, the toys.” Claire paused for a moment and took a breath. “It also helps that when you go to a place for the first time you drop a a shitload of money. Not that I can’t afford it, but then I don’t come here very often.” The door to the dining room opened again and Vincenzo motioned for the ladies to follow.

The dining room was quite grand. There was a large crystal chandelier hanging form the ceiling and the tables had silk tablecloths with real silverware. The china on the tables was of a high quality as well. Claire looked around and smile at a woman in a gown who was giving her a look. Vincenzo led Claire and Kristy to the table and pulled the chairs out for each of them. Picking up the bottle of wine, he turned to Claire.

“Shall I?” He had an inquisitive look on his face.

“Would you like to do the honours Kristy?” Claire looked over at Kristy and smiled.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy was just putting her new CIA billfold into her purse when a man arrived with the wine Claire had ordered for the two. Kristy looked a little nervous. She adjusted her skirt, trying to get the nervous feeling to leave.

“Would you like to do the honours Kristy?” Claire looked over at Kristy and smiled.

Kristy put her foot on top of the other. What was she supposed to say?

Before she could think of a good excuse for Claire, Kristy mouthed opened, "No thanks, I don't dri..." Kristy paused, Well you already started it, don't look like a bigger idiot by sitting there with your mouth open like a fish! "Umm.. I don't drink, but thanks anyway," Kristy said sheepishly.

Kristy looked down into her lap. She was a little mad at herself, but she didn't know what else she could do. She didn't know if the restaurant would take the bottle back, that was highly unlikely though. Kristy didn't know what to expect of Claire or the waiter, she'd never been in such an embarrassing situation before.

Kristy bit her lip, inside she felt a little relieved. She had gotten her point across, albeit probably not in the best of ways.

[John]

“Vincenzo,” Claire smiled. “If you could instead bring us a nice bottle of water, and put that away for me. I will have it next time.”

“Of course Miss Hannon.” Vincenzo smiled and left the table with the wine. Claire right now was having a little trouble figuring out why Kristy seemed nervous. Although Claire wanted her to drink to make this evening even more difficult, Claire didn’t have a problem with it. And maybe it was for the better that Kristy had all her wits about her.

‘Hun,” Claire looked at Kristy and smiled. “Is there something wrong?”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy replied to Claire, "I'm just a little out of my comfort zone is all," Kristy wasn't going to go much further than that, but she felt Claire deserved an explanation after sending back a thousand dollar bottle of wine for her, Kristy continued, "I mean this all really nice. Its just that I... I'm not used to it. I mean, I've just barely made the most money I've ever made in my life, and that guy over there," Kristy pointed with her thumb to a man across the dining floor, "...He's probably got what I have in savings in his wallet."

Kristy was feeling better, letting Claire know what she was feeling really helped her. She also found it nice that Claire hadn't tried to find out for herself by using her power, whether it be because she didn't want to do it in public or she just didn't want to didn't matter.

The waiter came out with a pitcher of water. The soft clink of ice hitting glass was barely heard past the table Kristy and Claire sat at.

Kristy sat up in her chair a little more, "I mean don't get me wrong Claire. This is really great, I'm just warming up to it slowly. I'm sorry if I'm coming off as rude or weird."

Kristy wasn't used to pouring out her feelings and thoughts to others either. She hadn't ever done it with her family, and hardly every did with friends. She thought to herself for a moment, Claire must really be growing on her, or she'd been slipped some truth serum in her breakfast that morning.

Kristy took a sip from the water glass. She was feeling better now.

[John]

“Vincenzo,” Claire liked up and smiled. “Could you come back in five minutes and tell us the specials please.” Vincenzo nodded his head and Claire turned to Kristy.

“Look, It’s not my intention to make you feel uncomfortable,” Claire smiled and her eyes went black. “I’m actually trying to show you something. That you are just as good as, if not better than all of these people. You throw your life in harm’s way, can any of them say the same.” Claire continued to smile and a mischievous look came over her face. She had been reading the crowd and found someone interesting.

“Behind me is a woman,” Claire nodded her head backwards but didn’t turn. “About twenty feet away. Although I can’t read her thoughts, I can read her feelings about us. And let me tell you she feels that we have no right to be here. I sense a lot of scorn directed at us. I can also sense that she keeps glancing over at us.” Claire continued to smile and lowered her voice as her eyes retuned to normal.

“She is getting thirsty,” Claire raised her eyebrows. “Wouldn’t it be a shame if she spilled her drink on herself? I’m not saying that spiteful is good. Just sometimes people need to be knocked down a peg. Kristy, you are better than any of these people. And rest assured, you will soon have more money than most of them. But it’s not about money hun. It’s about respect and treating people with the dignity they deserve. That and I wanted to take you to someplace really nice.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy was surprised at how understanding Claire was.

I guess it makes sense, she is an empath after all. Its probably easier for her to wrap her head around other people's emotions. She'd make a good psychiatrist, Kristy thought as her happiness started to return.

"I know its not about money, but I don't know. I guess I just lose focus of things when I feel out of place," Kristy stated, then added smiling, "And I'm not going to tip that lady's drink."

Kristy pivoted on her elbow slightly, she was breaking a table manner having her elbow on the table, but now that Claire had mentioned the lady that was about to take a drink, Kristy found her mischievious side taking over.

"Ah, whatever. Bottoms up, sister," Kristy whispered, barely able to hold back her laughter.

The lady was in a very nice white dress, and she just happened to be drink a very dark wine. Kristy instantly wrapped her telekinetic power around the liquid, giving it a slight push. She might have put a little more push into it than she intended, but the result was still the same. The woman let out a scream and Kristy had to bury her head into her folded arms on the table.

About that time the waiter was arriving back at Claire and Kristy's table.

[John]

“Felt good didn’t it?” Claire smiled at Kristy and turned to Vincenzo. “We’re ready.”

‘Ladies,“ Vincenzo was smiling and became more animated. “Normally we have two specials, however today we have only one. You see, our chef has outdone himself and simply refuses to make a second. Today we have a nice Osso Bucco in a red wine truffle sauce, served with a side of rapini.” Vncenzo looked at Claire.

“That sounds delightful,” Turning to Kristy, Claire smiled. “And if I may,“ Claire glanced at Kristy for approval. “I would like to get the Caesar for two please. You are going to love this. They make the salad right at the table.

“What about you hun?” Claire smiled “Did you know what you wanted to get, or did you want a little more time.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy mulled over her options. What Claire had just ordered sounded nice, but she was craving a simple pasta.

"Yes, I'll have your special too," Kristy replied quickly to the waiter.

As he left, Kristy looked at Claire and smiled a bit, "It does feel good," she said referring to tipping the lady's wine glass, "I'll struggle to not pull that trick when I'm eating now."

Kristy took a more talkative tone, "So Claire," she paused looked up at the ceiling, then continued, "What do you do outside of SCAR? Any interests or hobbies? It kinda seems like SCAR takes up most of your time."

Kristy took another drink of water, this time a big gulp.

[John]

Claire smiled. She was happy that Kristy was finally starting to become a little more comfortable. Even though Claire was training Kristy to be an operative, she did want them to be friends.

“Actually,” Claire took a sip of her water. “I hunt vampires for fun. But really SCAR take up most of my time.” Claire looked down at the table and sighed.

“Truth be told,” Claire’s voice sounded a little sad. “I don’t really have a lot of friends, and SCAR takes up most of my time. I guess it’s good though. Most of the things I really enjoy are in some way related to SCAR. I do a lot of martial arts, something you will find out about soon.” Claire looked up a little and smiled across the table.

“I’m just glad that I have someone to talk to for a change.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Hunts vampires for fun? Sounds kinda odd, but to each their own, Kristy thought.

"So do you generally work alone? Or do you do more group work like in Dunwich? It seemed like most of your squad was pretty friendly towards you," Kristy asked, not necessarily knowing where she was going with the conversation.

Kristy pivoted on her elbow one more time to look at the damage she had caused. The lady that had the wine spilled on her white dress was talking to a waiter. It looked like she wanted to leave even though her meal wasn't ready. The man next to her didn't look to happy about things either. Kristy smiled at the havoc she had unleashed so effortlessly.

[John]

Well, “Claire began smiling. “We generally only work in large groups for priority missions. Most of the time we are given other duties to attend to. Mine just happens to be hunting vamps for the most part. To be perfectly honest with you, that was only the second mission I have ever been on.” Claire looked over and watched as a waiter moved a cart next to the table and began to make the salad.

Kristy, this is Lawrence,” Claire motioned at the waiter. “He is a magician when it comes to making a salad.” Lawrence smiled and continued the preparation.

“Any friend of Miss Hannon’s is a friend of mine.” Lawrence looked at Kristy and smiled.

“But I want to hear about you Kristy,” Claire was still smiling and giving Kristy an inquisitive look. “I’ve read your file. But I’m not interested in what your former employers have to say about you. I want to hear about you.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy contorted her mouth, wondering what was on her file. Her military service obviously, but she wondered if Claire knew about her family situation, or any of her other doings. The waiter making the salad came by and broke her train of thought.

"What about me?" Kristy asked aloud, half to herself, half to no one in particular, "Well, in my spare time, I like to go off-roading. I also do a lot of running, usually just for fun, but sometimes at competitions. I'm also pretty interested in motorcycles, even if I can't afford them. That's about it, my file probably had all that other boring stuff on it."

Lawrence slid a salad to Kristy and Claire, Kristy said a quick thank you. She then took a forkfull of salad and was immediately impressed.

After another bite from her salad, Kristy asked, "So what exactly are we supposed to be picking up here? Or is it one of those things where I don't find out until weget there?"

[John]

“Well,” Claire began, “to be honest, I don’t really know. We are supposed to be picking up an intel package, but as for what’s in it, I don’t know.” Claire smiled and started to pick at her salad with her fork, mixing in the parmesan.

“We will be going to one of the shadier parts of town.” Claire Looked down and stabbed some lettuce with the fork.

“But I don’t think we will have too much to worry about.” Claire smiled at Kristy. “What could possibly go wrong?” Claire started to eat the salad, thinking about the evening she had in store for Kristy.

[Cookies Ahoy]

A few moments of silence passed as Kristy and Claire ate at their salads. The main dish came out eventually. Kristy was delighted, and was eager to eat the exquisite meal. The meat was much more savory than she had imagined it could be, and each bite seemed to let a new flavor roll across her taste buds.

Stopping to talk, Kristy asked, "So Claire, how strict is SCAR? I mean I've only been in a for a short time, but it definitely feels more lax than the Marines. And another thing, what kind of driving programs does SCAR have?"

Kristy was just taking random jabs at the organization she now worked for. She figured Claire was a good person to question about these matters, and she wasn't likely to give her round-about answers. Kristy happily returned to her plate while she awaited answers. It was a shame that food had to run out, and that stomachs had limits. The food was to die for.

[John]

“Actually,” Claire took a sip of her water and smiled. “For operatives, not very. We like to keep things a lot more relaxed. Mission commanders, like me, and trainees, like you, don’t get to stay quite so relaxed. And Kristy, I want you to understand, even though I consider you a friend. Don’t think I am going to make any of this easy for you.” Claire took another bite of her food and swallowed it before continuing.

“As for driving programs,” Claire wiped her mouth with her napkin. “We don’t really have any. We do have a few people who are phenomenal drivers, some would even be willing to teach you what they know. But the truth is, we tend not to use a lot of cars on our operations. And if we do, it’s nothing more than a drive from point A to point B.” Claire took another bite of her food and, after swallowing, smiled at Kristy.

“Generally most of our missions involve flying somewhere and then going on foot,” Claire paused and tilted her head to the side. “How’s your osso bucco?”

[Cookies Ahoy]

"Its awesome!" Kristy replied happily, before tossing in another forkful of the Italian cuisine.

Kristy wasn't sure how much longer her and Claire remained in the restaurant eating, but she could still taste the flavors of the food as the Viper cruised easily down the streets weaving in and out of the city traffic. The sound of blaring horns and curses emitted from other motorists. The radio did a good job of drowning them out, Kristy couldn't remember the name of the song playing, but it was familiar. She lightly drummed her fingers on the door panel.

The traffic got thicker as Claire and Kristy got closer to Claire's apartment. Kristy looked at the gridlock they were forced to wait in as the car crawled along with the flow. She peered along the stretch of road, the small empty area between the two lanes made Kristy wish she had her motorcycle. She remembered weaving through worse traffic on her blue 2000 Kawasaki Ninja. It was an older bike, but at the time she didn't have much money to indulge herself with. She made a mental note that she would buy that Ducati 599 she had put as her desktop picture in her small quarters.

The sound of the engine revving high alerted Kristy that traffic was beginning to thin out not, and also that Claire was sick of being in traffic.

"Is your apartment in that complex?" Kristy asked, pointing to a particularly nice looking apartment complex that lie just a black from the exit ramp.

[John]

“Um…no,” Claire smiled and continued to drive incredibly fast. “I think were I live might surprise you. At least on the outside. Claire continued to barrel through traffic until they entered what was a slummier part of town. Taking the next exit ramp, Claire drifted around the corner at the end and drove down a rather desolate looking street to an apartment complex at one end. Claire drove up to the side of the building which had several a garage door and screeched to halt in front of it.

The garage door, as well as the building were covered in graffitti depicting different gang signs as well as a phone number to get the world’s best head. Claire pushed a button on the dashboard and the garage door opened. Slowly Claire entered the garage, and parked the car, the garage door closing behind her. Turning to Kristy, Claire smiled.

“We’re here,” Claire said cheerfully and got out of the car, leading Kristy through a door, which led ot an elevator. They rode the elevator up to the tenth floor and when the doors opened, Claire stepped out, motioning for Kristy to follow.

“Mi casa es su casa,” Claire smiled. “Make yourself at home.” The apartment itself was a large studio apartment with two doors other the one exiting form the elevator. The apartment itself was quite large and appeared to take up a large portion of the entire tenth floor. The kitchen was to their left and was nothing spectacular. The rest of the room which they were in was a different manner. It was richly decorated with paintings adorning the walls. The couch and chairs were leather and sat nicely organized around the coffee table, which was made of glass and quite large There was a large fireplace on one wall and above was a painting which depicted trees with clocks melting over their branches.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy sat back in her seat, a little embarrassed at her wrong assumption. After the car approached the a more rundown complex, Kristy smirked a bit.

Claire's unpredictable, Kristy thought in her head.

When Claire and Kristy entered the room, Kristy was, yet again, amazed. The apartment looked like a trash heap on the outside, but Claire's studio was like a Hilton suite. Kristy walked around the main room, looking at some of the artwork, and taking a seat on the couch. Her eyes kept wandering around the studio.

"So do I need to take my shoes off?" Kristy ask jokingly.

A few picture frames sat on a table that was tucked up against the wall, a little out of the way. Kristy got to her feet and approached the pictures. She couldn't identify many people in the pictures, but it didn't stop her from looking.

That one's Andrew, she thought while slightly gesturing at the frame, That has to be Claire's parents. I can't imagine her putting up a picture of some random couple. Can't say I know anybody else in these pictures, but she definitely has some random things up here, Kristy thought as she looked at the pictures and cards of people Kristy could only guess as to how Claire knew them. Kristy went back to the couch as Claire came back into the main room.

"Nice place you got here, Claire," Kristy said happily.

[John]

“Thanks,” Claire smiled, moving over the couch and leaning over the back of it. “Can I get you anything?” As Claire spoke, her eyes looked to the clock on the wall. They still had a few hours to be at the drop off point for the “package.” Claire still felt a little bad at what she was going to do. There was a chance that Kristy could die tonight. And Claire had to be sure she had all her bases covered. She had spent enough time prepping the area. Barring anything truly unforeseen, Kristy should be fine.

Claire hoped that Kristy wouldn’t be too upset at the lie Claire had told. It was rare that she had anyone in her apartment as a guest. Claire was very secluded. And even though Kristy’s being here was due to a training exercise, Claire enjoyed having the company. And she did hope they could do it again.

“I’ve got some bottled water. Some juice, or I can make tea.” Claire smiled. “I have a few nice herbals if you like.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

"Some water would be nice," Kristy said casually.

Kristy got up off the couch and stepped towards a window to see what the view was like. The view of the block was pleasant, in a quiet slum kind of way. Farther out from the complex Kristy could see a park and other things that built a classic cityscape. She watched people walk around the streets like ants for a while. The sight was somewhat familiar to her, Kristy had gotten used to seeing the birds-eye view of terrain and people from her helicopter flying days. She wondered if she would get the chance to fly a bird again. Breaking her train of thought, Claire tossed a water bottle towards Kristy. She didn't bother to use her telekinesis and simply snagged it out of the air.

Taking a sip from the bottle, Kristy asked curiously, "So what should we do while we wait for this operation thing to get underway?"

[John]

“It’s entirely up to you,” Claire smiled, plopping herself onto the couch and stretching out. “I do have a TV if you like. Or we could just talk. Or you could practice your ability a little. It’s up to you. We do have a few hours to kill. The contact wanted the meeting to happen after dark.” Claire had a slight tone of professionalism. She still sounded friendly, but it was to hide the fact that she was a little anxious about the meeting with the so called contact. Even though she had taken the time to set things up so that Kristy couldn’t be killed during the exercise, this was SCAR, and things often went wrong.

Claire also knew that if Kristy used her ability now to practice, it would make her a little more tired when the time came. But maybe there was a way Claire could prepare her for some of what was to come. Claire thought things would have been so much easier if Kristy had of drank some wine. It would have lowered her reaction time and made things much more difficult for her.

“So what do you say?” Claire smiled.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy took a seat on the chair opposite of Claire, then took another drink from her water bottle.

"I guess we could work on my ability some more. It never hurts to have too much practice, right?" Kristy said half jokingly, "So... Where do we start?"

Kristy looked around the room. It didn't seem like there was many inexpensive objects to practice with, and she certainly didn't want to break any of Claire's belongings. Kristy half expected Claire to open up some secret, hidden training room or something to that effect. She had learned that Claire was quite unpredictable.

[John]

Claire got up from the couch and walked through one of the doors in the room to her bedroom. Rooting around in one of the dresser drawers, she quickly found what she was looking for. A pang of guilt hit Claire for a moment as she pondered what she was about to do.

There was a chance, albeit a small one, that she could kill Kristy right now; at the very least wound her. If Kristy got hurt right now, it wouldn’t be so bad. It would at least make up for the fact that she didn’t drink and make tonight harder on her. But if something went wrong and Claire accidentally killed Kristy, she would never forgive herself. Claire walked back to the door and looked at Kristy, smiling.

“Kristy?” Claire’s voice was lowered. “Catch!” Claire brought up her hand and threw the sai at Kristy. Claire was aiming for her shoulder, and hoped that Kristy could stop it in time.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy walked over to the sink to refill her water bottle. She was waiting for the water to get cold.

"Catch!"

Kristy jumped at the quick movement she saw from her peripheral vision. She didn't have any time to think, the sai was traveling straight for Kristy. Instinct took over luckily. Kristy was able to redirect its path into the ceiling. A more experienced telekinetic could have stopped the moving sai before it had a chance to do damage, but stopping something that is in motion requires a great deal more experience.

A scream was heard from the floor above Claire's apartment. The blade probably struck a pipe or punctured through the floor slightly, or it could have been a funny coincidence that the room above had a surprised occupant. Kristy smiled for a moment before feeling a searing hot pain across her right bicep. She looked at the running blood that was coming from the wound. The sai had been redirected, but not before it grazed Kristy.

Kristy began to breath long shaky whimpers, then she muttered, "Blood... Claire? Help."

Kristy quickly became lightheaded, and promptly dropped to her knees. The pain was still burning in her arm, and blood was already puddling on the kitchen floor.

[John]

Claire walked quickly to the kitchen and grabbed a tea towel off the counter. Walking over to Kristy, she knelt down and tied off the wound. She took a moment and steadied herself before helping Kristy to her feet and into the bedroom. She sat her down on the bed, guiding her to lay down. The blood had slowed and she felt a little concerned about how pale Kristy looked. Moving ot the dresser, she rotted in one of the drawers for a moment and removed a pair of scissors and some gauze.

“Sorry about that,” Claire walked over to the bed and sat down beside Kristy, cutting away the shirt form around the wound. It was a little deep but could have been much worse. All in all, Kristy was fine.

“It’s not that bad though,” Claire spoke softly and began to wrap the gauze around Kristy’s arm.

“But seriously though,” Claire’s tone changed to one which was more clinical. “We are going to have to work on your reaction time.” Claire actually wanted to hit herself, or something. She felt extremely bad about what she had just done. Despite the fact that Kristy’s injury would make the evening’s events a little more difficult for her, Claire still felt like shit. She only wished she could show it.

[Cookies Ahoy]

If Kristy wasn't in a lightheaded stupor she would have fought Claire from cutting away at her sleeve. She also would have fought Claire's reaction time comment. Instead though, Kristy could only mutter an agreement and nod her head. Not much longer Kristy passed out, not so much from blood loss, but because Kristy had a deep fear of blood. She could deal with a few drops of blood or a small cut, but anything bigger like the cut on her arm and she got woozy. The cut itself wasn't too bad, it hadn't struck any veins or arteries.

A soft rustling noise was as much noise as Kristy made when she awoke and rolled her head on the pillow. The time read six P.M. Kristy looked at her arm, the wound was well dressed. The pain was still there, though not as severe. She frowned a little at her now ruined shirt, then pulled herself from the bed. Kristy found Claire waiting in the main room. Kristy grabbed another bottle of water before speaking.

"What time do we need to leave?"

[John]

The time that Kristy slept for gave Claire enough time to leave the apartment and check that everything she had set was as it was supposed to be. She needed everything to be perfect for the evening. Though Kristy’s life would be at risk, she wanted to minimize that risk as much as possible.

It wasn’t long after she returned that Kristy woke up and asked about when they were leaving. Due to the time of year, it was already dark out and Claire figured there was no time like the present to get this over with.

“We can leave as soon as you’re ready,” Claire smiled. “And if you like, grab a shirt form the top drawer of my dresser. Sorry about yours. But please, help yourself.” Claire took out her phone and dialled a number, but kept the phone‘s keypad obscured from Kristy so he couldn’t see that Claire didn’t hit send.. She held it up to her ear and after a moment started to speak.

“Hannon one requesting go ahead,” she listened quietly to the dead air on the other end before smiling and ending the call.

“We will be meeting the courier close by,” Claire spoke calmly. “It will take us about twenty minutes to get there on foot. He will be there in about a half an hour so we should get moving. And before you ask, it has been requested that we go on foot.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy quickly grabbed a shirt from Claire's room, and returned with a white, mid-sleeved shirt with some oriental writing on it. She wasn't sure what it said, nor did she care; Kristy was nervous about the pick-up. It wasn't from being a greenie to SCAR, Kristy had been on her share of missions while serving for the Marines. Something just felt odd to Kristy about allowing a trainee to operate on a mission. Of course, there were a variety of explanations she could think of. Maybe SCAR was shorthanded at the time, maybe her performance in Dunwich had granted her special privileges, or maybe something else entirely.

As the pair of operatives left the building and began to head down the street, Kristy tightened her charcoal colored jacket and made sure her firearm was snug in her jacket's pocket. She hoped she wouldn't need to use it, she didn't trust her marksmanship with only one good arm, but Claire had mentioned it was a pretty low-key pick-up after all.

"So where are we meeting our guy?" Kristy asked, in a casual tone.

[John]

“About fifteen minutes,” Claire answered. Checking that her sai was secure in the lining of her jacket, and that the other item she was carrying was safe as well.. “We are meeting him in front of a store that has been out of business for a few years. It’s a quiet area. So there shouldn’t be any problems.”

Claire and Kristy walked along the quiet streets. Even though it was still early in the evening, it seemed that everyone had gone in the moment darkness fell. Claire was not the least bit surprised by this. She did, after all, live in the absolute worst section of town, but with good reason. She did do an awful lot of work here.

Once thay had arrived at their destination; a boarded up store covered in graffiti, most of which concerned someone named Stacy and how well she gave head; Claire stopped and turned to Kristy.

“So now we wait,” Claire looked at her watch. “He’s supposed to be along in about five minutes.” Claire looked at her watch as she spoke and leaned against the front of the store.

After ten minutes had passed, Claire started to glance at her watch. After twenty, she gave the appearance of being incredibly agitated, tapping her foot and sighing. After thirty minutes had passed, Claire turned to Kristy and her eyes turned black.

“Stay here,” Claire spoke calmly with a tone of suspicion. “Something’s wrong. I’m gonna have a look around.” Not waiting for Kristy to answer, Claire jogged across the street and headed into an alley between two buildings. Once she was out of sight of Kristy, she removed the blood pack she was carrying and poked a hole in it with her sai. She set it in a pile of garbage and raced off to the rear of the building.

Arriving at the back, Claire found the line she had previously attached to the roof and hooked it onto her belt. She activated the control and was pulled to the roof. She crouched down and moved as quickly as she could to where her bow was, reaching out with her emotions, trying to find the creatures that would be drawn to the scent of the blood. Claire knew full well that little ever went according to plan. She had expected that there would only be one or two vampires that would hone in on the blood. Instead, there were three, and they were moving quickly.

She stayed low and made her way to the front of the building. She was high enough up, and it was dark enough that unless she stood, Kristy wouldn’t see her. Pulling out her phone, she dialled Kristy. The moment she answered, Claire spoke.

“Kristy!” Claire sounded frantic. “Get the fuck outta there now. You’ve got three-” Claire turned off the phone, putting it in her pocket and then lined up the sight of the bow with Kristy’s position. The first vampire was about to walk onto the street just to the left of where Kristy stood, and the other two wouldn’t take long to arrive. It would make for an interesting training exercise.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy walked with Claire for a time until she stopped at the place they were supposed to meet their contact. The longer the two waited, the more nervous Kristy got. Not much more time passed before Claire took action. Kristy stayed put, but pulled out her handgun to make sure it was loaded and ready, because, something was obviously wrong. As if to confirm this, Kristy's phone began to vibrate softly. She picked it up to hear a frenzied Claire warn her about something. The line ended before Kristy could get any information besides: run.

A direction would be nice. Get out of there doesn't tell me much. What if I run into the threat? Kristy thought as she sprinted down the alleyway Claire had gone down earlier.

Kristy could her something coming down the street, getting closer to the alleyway. Sounds like a small group. She increased her speed, running as fast as she had ever ran in track. Kristy passed a pile of garbage, then turned down a corner. She stopped and put her back to the wall, pulling out her P99, Kristy listened for the footsteps.

They stopped...?

Kristy peeked around the corner, aiming her pistol with her good arm. She could see three feral vampires digging through the pile of garbage. Two of them looked well fed, while the other looked pretty sick. Feral Vampires are common in large metropolitan areas, though the lack of reliable blood sources keeps their numbers low. This also causes them to very aggressive. Kristy remembered reading that bit of information from a textbook. Before she waited much longer, Kristy squeezed the trigger gently. The alleyway echoed loudly from the gunshot. The bullet had done a number on one of the larger ferals, striking it in the neck. The vampire began to convulse violently as it gasped for life. The other two looked at Kristy and immediately attacked.

Kristy didn't realize how fast vampires could be until now. She began to run deeper into the alley, but she didn't make it too far before the smaller vampire pounced on her. Kristy hit the pavement with a loud grunt. Before the vampire could start sucking her blood she pushed it away and suspended it in the air. Kristy quickly rolled onto her backside and fired five shots at close range, turning the vampire's chest into a mush of flesh and organs. She released it from her telekinetic hold and got to her feet. The last vampire wasn't anywhere to be found. She began to search the alleyways for the last threat. What Kristy didn't notice was the smear of fresh blood the small feral had gotten on her cheek.

Ten minutes of silence went by before Kristy encountered the night creature. She was trying to find a way out of the maze-like alleys, the vampire was now looking for her. The fresh blood on her made Kristy easy enough to track. If a Feral is hungry enough, it won't give up on its prey, but it may try different tactics. Kristy wished she had remembered this information before the last vampire sprung its trap. As Kristy was walking over a manhole cover she felt the metal disc move upward fast. Kristy quickly fell to the pavement, this time with a fair enough landing. The sound of a firearm going off made Kristy flinch, then realize that was her gun. It had fallen from her grip and hit hard enough to discharge. It sounded like it had landed quite far away. The feral must have been an experienced hunter, because it took advantage of the slight flinch Kristy made, tossing her into a wall. She winced as she stood up, short of breath. The vampire was relentless though, it launched a barrage of slashes. Kristy tried her best to block them, but she hadn't learned much in the way of hand to hand combat at SCAR. Her training with the Marines hadn't taught her how to deal with supernatural enemies. Kristy didn't have many options to fight with, but she did noticed something out of the corner of her eye. She pushed the vampire away with her mind to get some distance between them. It began to charge at Kristy again, but its head was violently sheared from its neck by a manhole cover. Kristy ducked in time for it to sail over her head, and smiled when it landed with a loud clang on the ground. She retrieved her P99 and looked for a way to the streets.

When she had found her way back to the main roads, Kristy pulled out her phone and called Claire.

[John]

“Very nice Kristy,” Claire spoke into the phone. “Wait there I’ll be down in a minute” Claire hung up the phone and attached a grappling line to the roof. She was a tad fatigues form having to move pretty quick to keep an eye on Kristy, but still, this would be quicker than taking the stairs.

Claire was also smiling widely. She really was impressed at how well Kristy did with the exercise. As she repelled down the front of the building, she couldn’t help feeling a sense of pride for how Kristy had managed to take out all three vampires; all of which were now smouldering piles of ash. Kristy had exceeded all of Claire’s expectations. Once she reached the ground, Claire drew in the line and walked over to where Kristy stood.

“So shall we head back to base, or are you up for some more,” Claire smiled.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy bit her lip and surveyed her surroundings, realizing, finally, that for the most part, that the day had just been a training day. She looked at Claire, feeling slightly betrayed, but she didn’t think that she could be mad at her. It was a good training exercise, and Kristy knew it.

Kristy looked at her torn jacket, then back to Claire, “I’d rather not ruin the rest of my outfit,” she replied with a satisfied smirk.

Unloading her P99, Kristy walked with Claire back to her apartment.

[John]

Claire stayed silent on the walk back. She was reflecting on what had happened tonight, and what was still to come. There was still one more thing to do and Claire resisted the urge to shudder when she remembered going through it herself. Brutality didn’t quite sum it up. It was cruel what was about to happen to Kristy, as it had been cruel when it happened to Claire, and all the other operatives in SCAR.

When the arrived back at the apartment, Claire put her coat and equipment away and sat down on the couch. She looked at Kristy and a smile appeared.

“You did well tonight. And I’m sorry for lying to you,” Claire’s expression became more serious. “But you have to admit, if you knew you what was happening, it wouldn’t have had the same effect. Expect the unexpected.” Claire stretched and yawned.

“Ya know hun, I’m really tired. Why don’t we stay here tonight. You can take the bedroom.” Claire smiled sleepily, laying down on the couch.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy followed with Claire, enjoying the silence of the night. She didn’t enjoy the cold though, especially with her now tattered jacket. Relief, and warmth, filled her when the duo got to Claire’s pad.

Claire apologized for lying to Kristy, who responded, “Its fine. You did what you needed to do.”

Claire then informed her that they were going to stay the night. She kindly offered Kristy her bed. Kristy thanked Claire and immediately went to the bedroom, tired from the night’s training exercise. Kristy changed into a pair of athletic shorts and left her P99 on the nightstand next to her. She didn’t bother setting an alarm, Claire hadn’t told her what time they would be leaving, which seemed a little odd to Kristy, but she chalked it up to Claire being tired.

[John]

There were many things Claire hated about being in SCAR. There was the lying of course. As well, she found herself quite often having to do things she didn’t agree with. But the one thing she hated the most, was when things didn’t go according to plan. Which in SCAR, was most of the time.

The plan was simple enough, the phone was going to ring and they would leave, heading for the second training exercise. Of course, the unexpected happened and Claire only had a moment to reflect on this as she crashed though the bedroom door and hit the wall hard.

The three men had entered the apartment rather quietly. The only thing which had saved Claire, was her opening her eyes just at the moment one was about to grab her. She didn’t have even a moment to react as she was telekinetically thrown through the door.

She pushed herself to a standing position, grabbing a sword from under the bed as one of the three men approached the door of the room, drawing a sword as well. He was quite pale and had fangs. He was a vampire. And he was walking straight at Claire. The sword came down, but Claire was able to parry the attack and kicked him hard in the gut, sending him sprawling. She turned and looked at Kristy, her eyes normal.

“Get out now!!!” Claire shouted, sounding almost panicked. “They have a leech, your powers are useless!! GO!!!” Claire turned back to face the vampire, who had recovered and was swinging again. Claire blocked the swing and then yelped as he was pulled from her feet and lifted into the air, hanging upside down. Claire swung the sword wildly as she floated out into the living room and the vampire drew a gun, pointing it at Kristy.

“Better to not move,” he hissed as he spoke. “Maybe you live through this.” He grinned, baring his fangs at Kristy, as the sound of something smashing against the wall came from outside the bedroom.

“She’s down,” one of the men shouted from the other room.

“Now,” the vampire hissed at Kristy. “If you would be so kind as to get up slowly and come into the living room, we can get this over with. And don’t try anything or the Hannon bitch dies.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy awoke with heavy eyes. At first sight she couldn’t believe what was happening, but when she rolled off the bed and tried to grab her pistol she was awake enough to take in the situation. A gang of vampires had attacked Claire’s apartment; Kristy didn’t know why, but she was sure her and Claire would find out -unless it was another training exercise.

Ducking behind the bed, Kristy tried to stay out of sight. She pushed with her ability, despite Claire’s warning. Kristy felt nothing. She tried to think of her options. There were armed enemies in the apartment. Kristy had only a couple of bullets left over from her training earlier that night.

Kristy stood up and instinctively leveled her handgun with the vampire in the room, who also had a gun aimed at her. Before Kristy could do anything else, her p99 was yanked from her hands by an invisible force. It floated in the air for a moment before it was disassembled in the blink of an eye, and then the parts were casually tossed to the side. The vampire barked an order at Kristy.

There was no other option to take. Kristy obediently walked into the living room. Surprisingly, she was quite calm. Maybe she had already accepted the fact she was going to die, or maybe she still hadn’t realized the danger of the situation.

Kristy entered the living room, “Okay. Now what?” she asked calmly.

[John]

“Now,” the man smiled. “You tell us where the SCAR base is and then we leave and no one needs to get hurt. Or, I have my friend there shoot Miss Hannon in the head.” He pointed at Claire, who was laying on the floor. Here eyes were barely open and blood was running down her face from a wound in her forehead apparently caused when her head was slammed into the wall, evidenced by the crack and blood on the wall above her head.

“You see, I really hate violence,” his lips curled in a sinister smile. “But even you would have to admit, it does have it’s purposes. So, where’s the SCAR base, and I’m only going to ask this one time.” The man standing over Claire cocked his pistol and Claire was trying to shake her head to tell Kristy not to say a word.

[Cookies Ahoy]

The room fell silent for a second. Kristy didn’t know what to do, obey her trainer, lie, or tell the truth. She didn’t know what the consequence would be for lying, but she didn’t believe she could get away with it. Not if one of the vampires possessed an ability similar to Claire’s.

For a few seconds Kristy stood there her mouth opening and closing several times. The SCAR base’s location wasn’t something she could give up, but she didn’t want Claire to die. Kristy didn’t now what to do.

“I-I can’t tell you that,” she watched one of the vampire’s fingers tighten on the trigger, “You can’t kill Claire!” Kristy blurted, the vampire cocked an eyebrow, Kristy was appalled by what she was saying, but she continued, “She’s a SCAR officer, she’s worth something. You’d have to be stupid to kill her.”

[John]

“Guess I’m stupid then,” the vampire grinned at Kristy and moved his hand. Claire lifted from the floor and slammed into the ceiling. She landed hard on the floor behind the counter, out of Kristy’s view. The man who had been holding the gun moved behind the counter and attached a silencer to the end of his pistol. Pointing it downward, he pulled the trigger twice. Blood sprayed upward and hit the man across the chest and he walked out from behind the counter.

“You know,” the vampire walked a little closer to Kristy, placing his free hand in his pocket. “I don’t think you’re going to tell me anything here. Perhaps what you need is a change of location.” His hand came out of his pocket and appeared as little ore than a blur as he plunged the needle into Kristy’s neck. It only took a moment for the drug to take effect and Kristy lost consciousness.

When Kristy awoke, she was handcuffed to a chair. The chairs was metal and was bolted to the floor of the room. The room itself was quite dirty and the walls were made of cement. There was only one door, which was metal, and a light bulb over Kristy’s head was the only illumination. Along one wall, was a long rusted sink and there was a camera mounted in one of the corners of the room which was pointed right at Kristy. Standing by the door was the man who had killed Claire, and the vampire was standing in front of Kristy, smiling.

“Now,” the vampire hissed at Kristy. “Shall we begin?”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy screamed loudly when she saw one of the vampires shoot Claire.

"You killed her!" she wailed.

She didn’t have any time to react to the needle that was jabbed into her neck when she turned back. Kristy gasped for a few seconds. The initial stab with the needle was enough to stun her, but as the drug took effect Kristy wanted to cry in pain. No sound would come though; darkness quickly seeped into her thoughts until she felt nothing.

When Kristy became conscious again, she tried to move but her hands were cuffed to a chair that was secured to the ground. She struggled in the chair for a bit, but her head began to ache from the aggressive motions of her body. The drug may have worn off, but it left a terrible throbbing in her head. Kristy let out a cry of frustration. She felt weak, exposed. She was in a t-shirt and shorts bound to a chair. The cold metal chair felt like it was sapping away what strength she had left as her body heat slowly leaked onto the chair.

Is this what it's like to be a POW? Maybe, but... Before Kristy could finish her thought she was interrupted.

“Now,” the vampire hissed at Kristy. “Shall we begin?”

Kristy stared at the vampire for a second. She hated him. She wished so desperately for a chance to lash out and kill him.

“No,” Kristy started quietly, then she spoke louder, “I think we oughta wait a couple more minutes. Maybe get to know each other.”

She knew she didn’t have much else to lose, so she wasn’t worried about what she said the her interrogator. They had already killed Claire, one of Kristy’s only true friends. Kristy just smirked at the vampire.

[John]

“Oh don’t worry,” he hissed. “We’ll get to know each other quite intimately.” The vampire moved his hand and Kristy’s shoes and socks flew from her feet and landed against the wall. Moving his hand again, the taps on the sink turned on and the water started to run, slowly filling the sink and spilling onto the floor.

The vampire moved to the door ad opened it. He spoke to someone for a moment and closed the door, holding what looked like a small remote control. A small panel on the door opened and the ends of a set of jumper cables were passed through. The vampire took the cables and attached them to the chair, just as the water reached Kristy’s feet. He waited for a moment, then smiled at Kristy.

“Now, where’s SCAR?” The vampire spoke softly and pressed a button on the control, sending electricity into the chair.

[Cookies Ahoy]

The first thought Kristy had when the water was turned on was that she was going to be drowned. When the vampire attached jumper cables to her chair, her eyes widened in fear. She’d never been shocked before, which made things worse. Kristy could only psyche herself out about pain she was about to feel. She tried not to show any fear, but in reality the fear was very present in her eyes.

“Now, where’s SCAR?” The vampire spoke softly and pressed a button on the control, sending electricity into the chair.

Kristy clenched her teeth together just before the electricity surged through the chair and her entire body. She let out a high pitched wail through a tight mouth. Kristy could hardly think, her whole body was stiff. She felt like her muscles were pulling apart. Mercifully, after a few seconds of pain, the surge stopped. Kristy felt a cold sweat begin to bead up, her vision also began to blur as tears ran from her eyes. She began to shake uncontrollably.

“I don’t know where the base is! I swear!” Kristy screamed through shaky breaths.

[John]

“You know,” the vampire spoke plainly, pushing the button again. He sent a jolt into Kristy for a good fifteen seconds before stopping. “If you’re going to lie, this will all be so much more difficult.” The vampire crouched down in front of Kristy, smiling at her.

“But I think I understand,” his tone was jovial. “I’ve been lax in my manners. I didn’t even tell you my name.” He pressed the button again, holding it for only a few seconds before getting up and walking a few steps away.

“My name is Desmond,” he smiled. “And I really don’t like doing this you know. If you would just tell me what I want to know, I will be more than happy to let you go.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy let out another yelp of pain as soon as her body would allow her. Her shaking was taking longer to subside. She was being punished for lying, and she would be punished for silence. The vampire took a friendlier tone, electrocuted Kristy again, then introduced himself. She bit her tongue the second time the electricity surged.

Kristy looked at Desmond with as much hate as she could put in her eyes. Without thought, Kristy lashed out the only way she could. She spat the blood in her mouth at Desmond. The mixture of saliva and blood spattered all over the vampire.

“Bite me, you monster. I ain't telling you anything.” Kristy screamed as she pulled away from the chair as much as she could.

A thought ran at the back of Kristy’s mind as she settled back into the chair, bracing herself for the coming shock, maybe he will let you go. Claire’s gone anyway. SCAR could care less about one trainee. You could still get out with your life.

[John]

“Bite you?” Desmond grinned evilly, showing his fangs. “Well I did skip lunch, and since you’re offering.” Desmond grabbed Kristy by the hair and jerked her neck to the side. He slowly ran hins tongue over her neck and then moved next to her ear.

“I’m really gonna enjoy this,” Desmond whispered. “Oh, and it’s going to hurt.” With that, Desmond sunk his teeth into Kristy’s neck. He bit hard, his teeth tearing into her soft flesh, the blood spraying into his mouth. He could hear Kristy’s heart pounding in her chest and continued to feed until he heard it slow down. Once it did, he stopped and pulled away, straddling Kristy and sitting in her lap.

“Tastes like chicken,” Desmond laughed, placing a hand on Kristy’s cheek. “Now where is SCAR? It really doesn’t have to be this way.” His tone had become soothing again and he looked at Kristy as though he felt sorry for her.

[Cookies Ahoy]

“No! I-” Kristy tried to protest as Desmond pulled her hair and exposed a soft area of skin, she’d picked the wrong words.

Kristy tried to struggle with Desmond, but after being drugged and shocked so much, she didn’t have the strength or reaction time. She was also still locked in a chair.

The first feeling of pain was the tearing of Kristy’s flesh. She felt like she’d been stabbed. Kristy let out a yelp of pain. Her muscles were tense. The next feeling was just the opposite, for a moment, it felt soothing; Kristy’s world paused for just a second, she relaxed. A small feeling of peace filled her, but just as it arrived, a feeling of coldness smashed its way into every part of her body. Kristy began to lose feeling in her limbs as she could feel her blood literally being pulled from her. She let out a gasp. Her pupils began to sporadically change size, causing her vision to become distorted images that were a blur in her state of mind. She felt empty. Something that was hers was being taken from her, and she had no control over it. Then it ended. The fangs quickly pulled away from her neck. The slight movements of the air filling the now exposed bite wounds stung, but Kristy’s state of mind didn’t allow her to feel the pain, it just told her it was there.

Kristy’s heart was weakly beating; it was just strong enough to sustain her life. Each beat echoed throughout her empty feeling body.

Kristy looked at Desmond, who was now sitting in her lap. He said something that was incoherent to Kristy, then laughed. Kristy laughed too, not sure why. Then he asked where SCAR was, and touched Kristy’s cheek. She felt a connection, part of herself, in his touch. She wanted to get closer to it. She would do anything for it. Her desire for life was unexplainable.

As her strength began to falter, she leaned her chest into Desmond’s. Her head into his upper chest. She groaned softly. She could feel the warmth of her own life force, it was so close, yet she couldn’t have it.

“Th-Three Mile I-sland,” Kristy said through shallow, lustful, breaths as she pulled her head up to Desmond’s shoulders and rested it there, “Please,” Kristy whispered, repeating the word in unison with her heart’s heavy beat.

[John]

The moment Kristy said “please,” Desmond got up and the door opened as Claire entered the room. She was carrying a medical bag as well pushing an IV setup. Desmond moved his hand and Kristy’s handcuffs opened as Claire walked to her side and rolled up her sleeve. She took a blood bag and surgical tube from her medical bag and inserted the needle into Kristy’s arm, after tapping for a vein.

Claire stayed silent as she gave Kristy a quick check up. She had figured that Kristy would be okay, but still she wanted to be sure. Still, Claire felt like shit right now. A part of her felt like she had betrayed her friend. Yet still, even though Kristy had failed the test, Claire was thankful that it was over. Once she was reassured that Kristy was fine, Claire knelt down beside her.

“Just try to relax for a moment,” Claire spoke softly. “Give the blood a little time to work through your veins.” Claire wanted to say more. In fact, she wanted to burst into tears. Instead, she stayed silent, hoping that Kristy didn’t hate her.

[Cookies Ahoy]

At first, Kristy thought she was dreaming when she saw Claire. When she felt the prick of the needle and the slow, warm feeling of new blood being put into her system, Kristy knew it was real. She knew it was just a test now.

A part of Kristy wanted to punch Claire in the face, but she still didn’t have the strength. Instead of attacking Claire, Kristy just ignored her. She acted more fatigued and tired than she really was.

Eventually, Kristy ended up in her own bed. She didn’t really remember how, but she got there. Kristy moaned in pain as she tried to roll over. Her body ached. The day had gone terribly. The first test didn’t bother Kristy much. She understood why Claire did it, but Kristy couldn’t even comprehend why Claire had performed the second test. She had never heard of any testing as cruel as that. Kristy was taxed mentally and emotionally as much as she was physically.

Lying down alone in the darkness, Kristy drifted to sleep sometime late in the morning. She slept restlessly despite all she had gone through that day.

[John]

Claire sat at her desk, writing the note, She hadn’t slept and this was now the seventh version of it. Of course it was a note to Kristy but Claire was unsure of the right wording. It would be easy to just write that Claire was following orders; which was the truth. But for Claire, to say that felt wrong. Kristy was her friend and deserved more than that, and Claire didn’t feel a note would properly say what she needed to. Instead, she decided to keep it simple.

“Kristy;

I know you’re probably upset, and I don’t blame you. If you would like to talk, I will be in my office most of the day. You have the day off and may do whatever you wish with it as long as you stay on base.

Claire”

It was fluff and Claire knew it. Still, it was better than nothing she supposed and put the paper in an envelope and headed off towards Kristy’s room. Once there, she slid the envelope under the door and headed back to her office.

[Cookies Ahoy]

The note floated in the air -it hardly moved even though a fan was stirring the air in Kristy’s room. She was beginning to read the note for a fourth time. The first time Kristy had read the note she was so furious that she couldn’t even remember what it said. Each time after that she was able to calm herself down.

Suddenly the note ripped into tiny pieces that were tossed into the fan. They scattered like confetti. Kristy rolled out of bed and dressed in some gym clothes. She went to the gym for an hour, spending most her time running. After that Krisy went to the firing range. This only added to her frustration. She hardly got any kill shots with her allotted ammo.

Kristy went back to her room and stood in the shower for a while. She was contemplating her options. She didn’t want to go back to training; Kristy didn’t feel like she could trust Claire anymore, but on the other hand, Kristy didn’t know if she could get off the base. Before she made any rash decisions that she might regret later, Kristy decided she would see Claire. It wasn’t what she wanted to do, but it was the best thing to do.

A while later Kristy walked into Claire office. She was dressed in jeans, a simple tank top, and her running shoes. She also brought a bag filled with some of her belongings. Kristy took a seat and waited for Claire to speak to her.

[John]

Claire was sitting at her desk, filling out reports on the computer when Kristy walked in. Claire still felt like shit for what had happened, but she had to talk to Kristy. She had to say something, and it appeared that Kristy wasn’t going to make it easy for her. Turning off the computer, she turned to face Kristy.

“I am sorry for what happened Kristy,” Claire’s tone was calm and there was a look of regret on her face. “But you need to understand that it wasn’t my idea,” Claire sighed and got up from her chair. Walking around to the front of the desk, she leaned against it.

“Look, I know you’re pissed, and I don’t blame you. And as your friend, I am so sorry,” Claire pushed herself up and sat on the desk.

“But I have to follow orders as well,” Claire’s tone became a little more professional, though she sounded like she was forcing it.

“This is something almost every operative has gone through,” Claire stared directly at Kristy. And frankly, even if the scenario had played out fully, it’s nothing compared to what can happen in the field. And Kristy, despite the brutality of the test, it is necessary.” Claire looked down at Kristys bag.

“Are you going somewhere?”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy stared at her trainer. She wasn’t sure if she should be mad at Claire. Orders were orders, but Kristy still felt wronged. She didn’t know what she had signed up for.

“Yeah,” Kristy replied quietly.

Kristy had made up her mind before she had came into Claire’s office. Whether she would get off the base peacefully was another thing.

“I’m done Claire. I didn’t sign up for torture,” Kristy said quietly.

A few seconds passed, but before too much time passed, Kristy got out of her chair and slung her bag over her shoulder. Then made her way to the door.

[John]

“You’re not the first person to call it that you know,” Claire spoke, watching Kristy walk towards the door. “And you’re right, it is torture. But it’s nothing compared to what would happen if that situation had of been real.” Claire moved back behind the desk and sat down.

“Don’t forget,” Claire began typing into the computer, calling after Kristy. “You are still military, so you will need permission to leave from the base commander. But I have to wonder, knowing what you know, can you really go back to your old life?” Claire smiled watching Kristy exit. The reason for the smile was simple, Kristy wasn’t the first one who wanted to leave after the test. Thing was, they all came back. Some needed days, a few needed weeks, but eventually they all came back. Once you had been inside SCAR, the world never looked the same.

[Cookies Ahoy]

“Watch me,” Kristy muttered as she left the room.

Getting off the base proved to be more of a hassle than Kristy imagined. She figured Claire had a hand in that. She had to wait while several forms were authorized. The process seemed like something that would only take a minute or two, but problem after problem arose with the paperwork. Her patience was being tried, but Kristy knew she wasn’t getting off the base until she had the proper permissions.

A few hours later, Kristy was riding her motorcycle to Washington D.C. She wanted to see the memorials. Kristy wanted to remember the reason she ever chose to enlist. She spent most of what remained of her day at the Arlington Cemetery. Kristy stroked the grass as she sat in front of a headstone of one her squadmates that had died in her last tour of duty.

He knew the risks, but it still wasn’t fair what happened to him. He was just trying to protect people... He didn’t give up on his duties.

Kristy sat on the grass until it was getting dark. She then payed for a room in town. She sat on the bed for a while, rubbing at her neck. The bite left scars, but for now they were covered with bandages.

“I guess I should go back,” Kristy said to the floor, “Its not fair to keep my gift to myself. I can make a difference with SCAR, and I can’t really go back to the Marines.”

Letting out a long winded sigh, Kristy laid back in the bed. She wasn’t looking forward to what she knew had to be done. Kristy tucked into her sheets before grabbing her phone. She hit the only speed-dial option she had. She skipped the dial tone and went straight to voicemail.

“Claire, I’m in D- You know where I’m at, who am I kidding. We need to talk,” Kristy said quietly into the speaker.

[John]

“Bout time,” Claire smiled, listening to the message and immediately jumped off the bar stool. She threw a hundred on the bar, considerably more than her tab, and headed towards the exit.

Admittedly the bar was not the type of place that Claire would have gone, being set up more like a café. Still, they made a good Martini, and the sandwich she had was more than adequate. There was also the fact that it was her only option other than a McDonald’s which was across the street from the hotel Kristy had chosen to stay at.

Claire entered the lobby and pulled out her cell phone. She pressed a few buttons and got an exact fix on where Kristy was. Claire had to admit that she was thankful that Kristy had chosen to keep her cell. It made her easier to tack. Thanks to the phone, they only needed two people to watch Kristy, the operative who had watched her for most of the day, and Claire once she arrived in the capital.

She rang for the elevator and got on once it arrived, pressing the button for Kristy’s floor. Once she arrived, Claire watched the screen, tracking the phone in Kristy’s room. Eventually she came to the door, and sighed; shutting off her phone and putting it away. She took a moment to steady herself, and then knocked on the door.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy opened the door, and looked at her trainer. She didn’t know what to say to Claire, so instead, she gave her a hug and brought her in.

“I’m sorry I left, Claire,” Kristy said lowly, “I-I don’t know what to say. I just needed time to think... I think.”

Kristy sat down on her bed. Putting her head in her hands she groaned a bit. Then looked back at Claire.

“I think I’m really ready to commit now. I just had to reflect on this big decision. When I joined the Marines, I knew that I wanted to serve and protect. When I joined SCAR, things were different. I didn’t know the kind of commitment I was making, but now, I know I’m ready Claire.”

[John]

“We all have or reasons for doing this,” Claire smiled at Kristy. “Personally I do it for the toys,” Claire let out a little giggle and then sat down in a chair next to the dresser.

“Look hun,” Claire’s expression became a little more serious. “I know what you went through was hell, and I can’t promise you that what comes will be any better. You are going to get hurt Kristy. And I honestly hate that it’s going to happen, but I have a job to do. And be thankful I set the parameters of the test. Some of the other trainers have been… more creative.” Claire paused for a second, to clear her throat as an uncomfortable feeling washed over her as she thought of some of the things she had seen at SCAR.

“So,” Claire stood up, placing her hands in the pockets of her jacket. “Get your stuff and let’s get going. You start hand to hand training tomorrow, and you’re gonna need your rest,” Claire smiled and pulled out her phone, hitting redial and the looking at Kristy.

“Chop chop,” Claire smiled. “We don’t have all day. Our ride will be here in a couple of minutes.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy quickly went for her bag -which was already packed- near the bed. Throwing it over her shoulder, she walked towards the door. As she opened the door up, Kristy paused.

“What am I going to do about my motorcycle Claire? I really don’t want to leave it here,” Kristy questioned, then without waiting a long time for a reply, she exclaimed, “I know! We can ride it back -that is, if you want to. Its really fun.”

Kristy waited at the doorway waiting for Claire’s response, absentmindedly twirling the keyring on her finger.

[John]

Claire almost said yes, even though it would be a direct violation of her orders. Fortunately, she could hear the helicopter approaching and decided it made more sense to get home quickly; as much fun as it would have been to ride there.

“Sorry hun,” Claire smiled. “We have our orders. Besides, I don’t ride bitch.” Claire grinned, turning to head for the stairs which led to the roof.

I wouldn’t worry about your bike. It’ll be picked up.” Claire stopped and turned, hugging Kristy for a moment.

“I’m glad you’re back,” Claire pulled away and smiled. “Now let’s go. You’re gonna need your rest for tomorrow.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy looked at her motorcycle with a sad face. She hated to leave it. She wasn’t really worried about it being stolen, she just didn’t like other people to ride her bike. Kristy had a sharing problem with some stuff, but she would never admit to it.

Climbing into the helicopter and throwing on a headset so she could hear and speak over to whirring blades and powerful engine, Kristy quickly strapped in. Flying always seemed to lift her spirits, even if she wasn’t the one doing to piloting. Once everyone was strapped in and the pilot checked a few things, the helicopter lifted off the street smoothly, disappearing as quickly as it came.

After a few minutes of flying, Kristy spoke into her headset to Claire, “I used to fly in the Marines. Didn’t fly this exact model, but something close to it. I kinda miss that part of serving.”

[John]

“Wanna have a go?”, Claire grinned at Kristy, not waiting for a response and clicked a switch on the overhead panel.

“This is SR115. Request permission and override for stealth flight training exercise,” Claire spoke into the microphone ad smiled when the reply of, “permission granted” came through the headphones.

The pilot put the helicopter into hover mode and stepped out of his seat, nodding to Kristy and mouthing the words “good luck” as he strapped himself in. Claire didn’t wait for Kristy to get up, now that Claire had made it a training exercise, Kristy didn’t have a choice. Besides, she was betting that Kristy wouldn’t say no.

“A route will be marked for you on the heads up display, follow it and shoot down any threats,” Claire began flicking switches and the cockpit window had a computer generated layout showing an infrared view of the terrain as well as crosshairs.

“It’s just like a flight simulator,” Claire chimed happily. “Weapons have been set for simulation only. I should warn you though, this chopper’s a little more manoeuvrable and a lot faster than what you used to fly, and the route would be impossible to follow in a regular one.” Claire paused and hit a couple more buttons.

“There will be three bogeys, and they will fire back, but you do have countermeasures, so it should be fine. So whenever you’re ready pilot, take us out, and remember, stick to the route on the display.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy’s face lit up as she climbed into the pilot’s seat. Although she wasn’t familiar with the helicopter, she was excited to fly it. To an extent they were all the same. The only complaint she had was that she didn’t do the pre-flight checks. Kristy wasn’t afraid someone couldn’t do their job, she just felt safer when it was her job to do.

Nodding her head at the end of Claire’s instructions, Kristy turned off the hover mode, and leaned the bird forward. The response was quicker and tighter than Kristy thought it would be. She let off the throttle for a second, smiled, and punched it forward again.

“Nimble,” was all Kristy muttered over her headset as she began guiding the aircraft through the marked point on the HUD.

The first enemy rose up quickly from the dark forest below, spraying simunition at Kristy’s chopper. She guided the her helicopter into a quick dive, and, just as quickly, jerked it up along with unleashing a stream of weaponsfire aimed at the back end of the bogey. The HUD confirmed the kill, and also showed that Kristy was about to miss a marker. With a quick flick of the steering, Kristy banked the helicopter just in time to reach the marker.

As Kristy piloted the helicopter through more markers, another helicopter attacked from behind. Kristy lightly bit her lip as she hurriedly spun the chopper around in a turn that would have flung her out of her seat if she weren’t strapped in. The HUD read that her bird had been hit, but it wasn’t out. The damage capacity indicator read fifty percent. Kristy looked down at her instruments quickly for other weapons systems as she put the helicopter into an evasive strafe. The HUD pinged that she was going to miss her next marker. Thoughtlessly, Kristy pulled the helicopter back in the opposite direction, crossing more simunition. The damage capacity dropped another five percent, but Kristy hit her mark.

She sighed quickly, then jammed a button near her, “Night night,” Kristy yelled with joy.

A hail of simulation rockets left the helicopters wings. The majority hit the bogey, taking it out.

The final bogey had Kristy on edge, she didn’t know where it would be. It wasn’t until she was approaching Three Mile Island, guiding the helicopter through increasingly difficult flight paths, that the last bogey came from around the large reactor tower. It pissed sim-rockets at kristy, which she was barely able to dodge. The bogey dove at her, firing on her. Kristy’s chopper sustained more damage, bringing its simulated life to a meager seventeen percent. Luckily for Kristy, the bogey had to pull out of its dive before it could eliminate her. She took the opportunity to gain some altitude and fire on the bogey, doing minimal damage. Kristy kept up the fire to push the bogey away from her, but her ammunition didn’t last very long. In desperation, she fired off a tracker beacon, which stuck onto the enemy chopper, then Kristy pulled her bird in a fast arc around the reactor’s large chimney to put something between her and her enemy.

Kristy was now sweating, her breathing was also fast. The HUD showed her that the bogey was coming around the chimney. Her most reliable weapon was evasion at the moment. Kristy gained more altitude, then dove the helicopter into the chimney. The chimney hadn’t been powered up almost all week, for maintenance reasons. Kristy took a few slow breaths, then looked at her HUD. The tracker showed that the bogey had most likely lost her, as it was doing sweeping maneuvers around the chimney.

Clutching the the throttle tightly, Kristy gingerly brought the helicopter out of the chimney. The bogey spotted Kristy almost immediately. Her thumb repeatedly jammed the flare button. Bright flares were tossed into the sky, rendering the bogey’s night vision and flares almost unusable. Kristy took advantage of the situation and fired off her remaining rockets.

Moments later Kristy was landing her helicopter, beaming with a satisfied smile.

[John]

The pilot who had relinquished control of the helicopter to Kristy smiled and gave her a thumbs up before winking at her and heading out of the chopper and headed off down the ramp. Once he was gone, Claire took off her headset and turned to Kristy.

“Nice flying hun,” Claire smiled. “I’m sure we’ll be able to arrange for more soon.” Claire stood up and headed to exit the Helicopter.

“Now you should probably get some rest,” Claire turned, the smile fading form her face. “You need to be in the gymnasium by 0700. And I’m going to give you quite the workout. Claire walked down the ramp and the smile returned. She was happy that Kristy had passed the test in the chopper. She had done well enough that she could go on the active pilot list and Claire knew that would make Kristy quite happy. But Claire figured it better to wait until after she had finished with Kristy tomorrow.

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy hadn’t gotten much sleep last night. She had been restless from the exhilaration of flying again, something she hadn’t done for a long while. Still, Kristy was able to report to the gym on time and not look to beat up for a SCAR trainee.

Amidst other operatives doing simple exercise routines, sparring, and other activities, Kristy spotted Claire, her trainer. She calmly walked towards her.

“What are we doing today, Claire?” Kristy asked with a small yawn.

[John]

Claire smiled and took Kristy by the hand, leading her to a twenty by twenty area covered in mats on the far side of the gym. A few of the people who were sparring stopped to take notice of the two women walking across the floor. Once there, Claire picked up two wooden katanas from the edge of the mats and handed one to Kristy before removing her shoes and stepping onto the soft surface.

“This is a simple test,” Claire spoke with her official tone. “All you have to do is hit me. You can use the katana, your hands or feet. You may not use any powers or other weaponry in this exercise.” Claire faced Kristy, holding the sword in front of her.

“And I suggest you don’t hold back, as I won’t be.” Claire raised the sword and took on a defensive stance.

“Whenever you’re ready.”

[Cookies Ahoy]

Kristy took the offered katana and stood in a ready position. She had never trained with any kind of bladed weapon, aside from a combat knife, and felt awkward wielding the weapon. Also, Kristy had seen Claire used her swords in real combat; she was deadly with them in her hands.

Dropping her guard for just a slight moment, Kristy was trying to throw off Claire, she then swung up quickly. Before she knew what had happened, her swing was parried and she’d been hit on the ribs. Kristy winced at the blow, but tried another attack. It was blocked too.

Kristy screamed in frustration and launched a flurry of attacks, for each swing she took, it either missed or was blocked, a counterattack usually followed too.

Kristy fell to the floor and muttered, “This is impossible.”

[John]

“It's not impossible, “ Claire helped Kristy to her feet. “But you need to act defensively. I've trained for years and you aren't going to hit me easily. You need to try and get me to make a mistake or look for any holes in my attack..” Claire turned and walked to the middle of the mats, pulling a piece of cloth from her pocket.

“Let me show you what I mean,” Claire said while applying the cloth to her eyes as a blindfold. “Whenever you're ready,” Claire brought the sword up and activated her power. Of course she couldn't fight blind, but when Kristy attacked, she would sense the aggression and be able to evade the attack. But it was still a disadvantage, and Claire would have to stay on the defensive.

[Cookies Ahoy]

“Whatever you say,” Kristy muttered as she pushed herself off the ground.

Now blindfolded, Claire seemed like she would be an easy opponent. Kristy was proven wrong quickly though. She aggressively swung at Claire, who blocked the attack almost instantly. Claire then attacked, but Kristy narrowly blocked the swing. Kristy quickly reacted with a counterattack, that was also parried.

Kristy paused for a second and took a few breaths to calm herself down. She figured she would be able to fight better with a clear mind. Kristy was unaware that it would also make her attacks harder for Claire to read.

Now calm, Kristy made a quick stab at Claire.