[b]CHAPTER 7[/b] You take a deep breath and fidget in your uncomfortable seat. The metal of the chair is cold and is digging into your back. For the nth time your eyes scan your surroundings and a pang of anxiety seeps into your bones. You are sitting in an interrogation room very similar to the one you sat in 6 years ago. Strange isn't it, all your trouble and mishaps occur in multiples of 6. You had your first nightmare when you were 6, then you ruined Sir Nicholas's wedding when you were 12, you managed to entangle yourself in a murder charge when you were 18 and then the cherry on top, you nearly died while killing a divryn as a 24 year old. Maybe you should think about retiring by the time you turn 30. If you wouldn't have been inducted in the Night Hunters, you could have retired at 27. Now you have the pleasure of being in the military till you have turned 32. If you last that long, the Night Hunters have a 45% death rate and 90% of the martyrs are new inductees. Shaking off your dark thoughts, your brain shifts track to your current situation. The same dark grey walls but with curtained windows and a table with 5 chairs instead of 3. After running into the Air Marshal, you were dragged into the Captain's office. From there you were dragged to an interrogation room and told to take a seat. Everything happened so abruptly, that you forgot to protest or ask Marshal Kasri about the letter from the Field Marshal. As you sit there lost in your thoughts, the door opens and your interrogation officers pile in. The first one to enter is the Air Marshal, followed by Sergeant Major Felix and a tall lady officer. Her armband reads R.E, designating her as a research officer. She has light brown skin, long raven hair tied back in a bun and pretty dark brown eyes. The most fascinating feature about her are her multiple piercings and a small silver nose ring. You would place her in late thirties or early forties at best. Smiling she walks over to you as you stand to salute her, "My name is Col. Ananya Shekhar. I am the CO of NH Research Base and NH team 5. It's a pleasure to finally meet you." She gives your hand a firm shake before wincing, "Oh dear....so sorry, Lt. Dexer. I did not see your bandages." Before you could reply, the door opens once again and a tall man with the rank patch of Brigadier General strides in. He has pale skin, sharp black eyes and a shaved head. His entire being oozes dignity and brilliance. He strides over to you and stares you down. "1st Lt. Dexer. I am Brigadier General Delacroix, your new Commandant." All the assembled members take their seats and Sergeant Felix gives you a reassuring nod. Air Marshal Kasri seems to be engrossed in reading the dossier on your latest escapade. You take a seat and try to make yourself comfortable. *page_break "Let the session begin..." Col. Shekhar leans forward in her seat and looks at you, her eyes shinning with curiosity. "So...${name}, let's start at the beginning. We already have the account of how everything happened and all. But the question I have is, how did you know? From what I have read in the witness statements, you not only knew that there was going to be a breach but you also knew the exact spot." Leaning back, she tilts her head and appraises you. "That's...unusual...." All eyes are on you and you hold back the urge to fidget. What do you tell them? They have been doing this for years, and will probably know if you are hiding something. If you tell the truth, they might just throw you in an asylum. But if you lie.....it's a crime to lie and hide facts in a military interrogation, that's 5 years jail time. Perhaps you should play the traumatised soldier card or even better, you could lie and say that you don't remember anything. You were out for 8 days after all. *choice # You are charismatic enough to spin a lie. *set sd "L" *goto 80 # The forgetful, hard as steel soldier it is. *set sd "I" *goto 81 # Let's be a little smart about this... *set sd "3" *goto 82 # I shall tell no lies, even if I sound insane... *set sd "4" *goto 83 # I refuse to speak...if I do speak, they will probably dub me insane. *set sd "5" *goto 84 *label 80 Taking a deep breath, you scrunch your features and pretend to be in deep thought. Rubbing your hand over your face, you tap your fingers against the table. With a sigh, you rub your temple and look up with a tired and defeated expression. "I....can't remember anything...." Col. Shekhar and the Commandant share a look while Sergeant T looks at you with a raised brow. The Air Marshal simply tilts his head with an amused expression. Clearing his throat the commandant speaks, "Well...if you can't remember, then I don't see the point of sitting here and grilling you for the next few hours." He then turns to Sergeant T, "Felix...is there anything you would like to say?" Sarge glares at you, "No sir. There's nothin I can do, if the Lieutenant refuses to remember." *goto 85 *label 81 You fold your arms and stare straight ahead, "I can't remember." Col. Shekhar sputters indignantly, "What? Nothing at all?" You raise a brow and remain stoic in the face of Sergeant T's glare. "No." Air Marshal Kasri looks at you with amusement, while Sergeant T and the commandant glare at you. Col. Shekhar takes a deep breath and speaks kindly, "Well...Sarge...want to say something?" "No ma'am. If the Lieutenant refuses to speak, then there's nothin I can do about it." *goto 85 *label 82 You take a deep breath and put it bluntly, "If I tell you, you will have me shipped off to an asylum or jail." Air Marshal Kasri chuckles and Sergeant T looks at you with an amused smile. Even Commandant Delacroix is sporting a grin. Col. Shekhar chuckles and asks, "Where in the world did you get that idea?" You shrug, "Because what I am about to say will make me sound insane. Or you will take it as an attempt at lying in an official interrogation and put me in the Brig." *goto 85 *label 83 You sigh and rub your face, muttering curses under your breath. Shaking off your misgivings, you speak. "What I am about to say will sound insane or like a very bad attempt at a lie. But bear with me, because its the truth." Air Marshal Kasri looks at you with an amused smile, while Sergeant T looks at you with approval. Both the Commandant and Col. Shekhar lean forward in their seats, interested to hear your explanation. You try to come up with a diplomatic way to put it across but there is no easy way to tell them about your issue without sounding like a crack. They must see your dilemma reflected on your face because the Air Marshal chuckles, "I think our Lt. Dexer is in some really hot mud right now." *goto 85 *label 84 You fold your arms and stare back with a blank expression. The commandant and Col. Shekhar exchange a look of confusion while both the Air Marshal and Sergeant T snicker silently. "Well....are you going to tell us...." You continue to stare ahead without any indication of your thoughts. The commandant sighs and rubs his face wearily, "Seriously? The silent treatment? I am far too old to deal with this....." *goto 85 *label 85 Col. Shekhar looks at you with a kind smile, "I know that's its a difficult thing to reveal. If you are worried that we will dub you crazy, then don't worry about it. Everybody in this room already knows about your special skill." Your eyes widen in surprise, "But how....." The Air Marshal rises from his seat and walks over to you, placing a gentle hand on your shoulder, "You are not the only person to have it. There is one more person who has it other than you." He continues speaking in a gentle tone, "I know it's tough. Sleep is the one state of mind where you can be at peace and that peace has been snatched from you. But you saw it, didn't you? You saw it happening and instead of turning tail and running away, you stood up to your fears. You faced it head on and saved the lives of your troops and all of Sienna. The truth is that you are different...you are special. And if anybody dares to question you or your abilities, then they will have to deal with me." He stares at you with a strange emotion in his soft hazel eyes. Somehow, a part of you feels like you know those eyes. It's like you knew them in some distant past. Your heart feels oddly at ease as you scan his face. Strange, as a soldier you don't trust easily....but when you look at those eyes, you know that you can trust this man with your life. "Marshal Kasri....I think it would be best to hand over the interrogation to Major Allori...." Blinking from his stupor, the Marshal nods as he scans your face one last time. "Of course..." The spell broken, the Marshal withdraws his hand and strides out without a second glance at you. Commandant Delacroix nods briskly and strides out. Sergeant T smirks, "See you later, Lt. ${name}. I wish you luck with the next one." Col. Shekhar sighs, "Geese...Sarge...you haven't changed a bit in all these years. Quit intimidating ${him}." Sergeant T chuckles on his way out as she turns to you. "He's right you know. Try not to be intimidated by the Major. $!{t_he} can sense fear like a Cat C....." With that she closes the door behind you and leaves you to contemplate your thoughts about this next officer. *page_break The door creaks... And in walks the tall ${t_man} you had seen at the fair. Striding in, $!{t_he} walks to you and raises a brow and speaks with a mocking undertone, "Pleasure meeting you once again Lt. Dexer. Though I doubt our last encounter counts...." *fake_choice # "Nice to meet you...again." you add with a smile. $!{t_he} tilts ${t_his} head like a Cat C honing in on its target, "Aren't you upset that I didn't introduce myself as an M.P during our previous meeting?" You shrug, "Can't blame you there. It's not like I asked you." A corner of ${t_his} mouth tugs up in amusement, "True....in that case....I am Major ${tric} Allori, the lead investigating officer of your case. I would offer my hand but yours seem to be injured. The Surgical Captain would have my head on a spear if I aggravated your condition any further." You raise a brow, "You are the first person to notice my bandages since I woke up.'' "I can see why. The sleeves of your blazer are long enough to hide your hands." "Then how did you notice?" "Nothing escapes my eyes. I see everything." You snort, "How modest." $!{t_he} grins, "I know" *set tf +1 *set t %+10 *set Polite %+10 *set Friendly %+10 # You smile as your cheeks heat. $!{t_he} tilts ${t_his} head and speaks smoothly, "From the rather endearing blush coating your cheeks and the dilation of your pretty ${eye} pupils, I can surmise that you do [i]remember[/i] me." As you struggle to string together a decent sentence, ${t_he} leans in and wraps ${t_his} fingers around your wrist. "Hmmm....with how rapid your pulse is....I can confirm it. You are not only surprised but rather...pleased to meet me." $!{t_his} hot gaze travels over your face and trails down your neck. "You seem flustered. The blush has travelled down your neck and trailed under your shirt collar. It's because of the skin contact, I have with you. One would deduce that I am the reason for your current state...." With a smug tilt of ${t_his} lips, ${t_he} mutters, "How interesting...." Gently letting go of your wrist, ${t_he} steps back. *set tr +1 *set t %+10 *set Shy %+10 # You raise a brow and smirk, "Wow...I must have made quite the impression for you to follow me all the way here." $!{t_he} tilts ${t_his} head, ${t_his} molten gaze sharp as a blade, "Oh yes...quite the impression..." In one smooth motion, ${t_he} tips your chin and trails ${t_his} finger along the smooth skin of your neck. Lowering ${t_his} voice to a smooth rumble, "Try as you might, you can't hide anything from me. Your gorgeous ${eye} pupils are dilated....your pulse is...faster than normal...your soft skin has goosebumps...all leading to one conclusion." You close the distance between you, "And...what would that be...", Hot gaze pinned on the crook of your neck, ${t_he} tilts ${t_his} mouth in a smug little grin. "You are very attracted to me." You tilt your head and ask with a mocking grin, "What do you plan to do about it..." $!{t_he} scoffs and steps away, "I am sure you can figure out my plans. Given how [i]intelligent[/i] and [i]observant [/i] you are." *set Shy %-10 *set tr +1 *set t %+10 # You raise a brow unimpressed, "Major Allori, I presume." "Yes....Are you annoyed that I didn't introduce myself the other day?" You shrug, "No." "Hmmm....good." *set Polite %+10 *set Friendly %-10 *set t %+5 # You scoff, "If I wasn't sure about you being a creep before, I am assured now." $!{t_he} raises a brow and muses, "Tell me something I don't know." *set Polite %-10 *set Friendly %-10 With that ${t_he} drags a chair in front of you as you take a seat. Once seated, ${t_he} plucks out a small diary with a pen and places it on the table. "Let's begin. I want you to start from the beginning. All the details, including the emotions and thought process. Everything and anything that stands out to you." No point in lieing or diverting it anymore, might as well bite the scabbard. Taking a deep breath to compose your thoughts, you proceed and spill the beans. The Major scribbles away as you narrate, never interrupting you and listens with pin point focus. You narrate your sudden instincts, disturbing blood lust and the vision of the divryns and how you executed your plan. It feels oddly euphoric to just let it all flow. All these years, you learnt to keep your fears and horrors to yourself. You knew better than to ask for help. When you finish, both you and Major Allori sit in silence. *page_break "It must have been tough...." You shrug, "I am used to it." "How often do you get these visions or nightmares as you put it?" "They are erratic and don't really follow a timetable." "Do any of them repeat or....." "No. I never see the same vision again and it continues where I left off." ${tric} traces ${t_his} eyebrow with the back of ${t_his} thumb, "What did you feel when you first laid eyes on the divryn?" *if (Fimp = "Determined Fear") You frown in thought, "Determination in the face of fear. I was afraid.....but determined to put it down. I knew I had no choice.....that I must kill it. That...I could kill it." ${tric} raises a brow and tilts ${t_his} head, "That sort of courage is rare even in the Night Hunters. It takes strength of character to face an enemy like that." *if (Fimp = "Nervous fear") You rub the back of your neck, "I was nervous....and my hands were sweating...but I pushed past it to steady myself." ${tric} appraises you with a slight tilt of ${t_his} head, "That's a sign of an excellent leader. Fear and uncertainty aren't your weakness. They are the source of your strength." *if (Fimp = "Harley quinn") You grin viciously, "It was going to be my first kill.....and I wanted it to be memorable...." ${tric} appraises you with a slight tilt of ${t_his} head, "You would get along fabulously with a young Lieutenant I know. He loves slaughtering divryns as well." *if (Fimp = "Seen scarier stuff") You shrug your shoulders with a sigh, "I expected it to be more..scary...I suppose. It's just that it was the same as my nightmares and not as scary as the veterans described it." ${tric} raises a brow and tilts ${t_his} head, "I haven't heard anyone define their first time like that. Must take a lot to scare you......How interesting...." *if (Fimp = "ugly") You shudder and wince, "It was the most hideous thing, I have ever laid eyes on. It actually looked better in my dreams." ${tric} snorts, "I agree with you. Makes you want to bleed your eyes out." *if (Fimp = "Panic") You wince, "I panicked and tried to pull it together...." ${tric} snorts, "Lt. ${name}, normally when people tend to panic in field it makes them vulnerable or freezes them in place. You managed to kill a mutated Cat D even though you panicked. I say that's rather commendable." *if (Fimp = "Love at first sight") You sigh wistfully, "It was so...beautiful. It's pretty ruby eyes shining in the night and the moonlight glinting off its scaly armour...." ${tric} snorts, "You and Col. Shekhar are the same brand of insane. She has the same view of divryns and is obsessed with them. You both are going to get along like bread and butter. That doesn't bode well for the rest of us mere sane folks." *if (Fimp = "Unbelievable") You smile sheepishly, "I didn't believe it.....I thought I was dreaming again..." ${tric} snorts, "Must have felt like a dream come true...." *if (Fimp = "Bloodlust") You snarl, "I wanted to slaughter it! To paint the ground with its vile blood!" ${tric} raises a brow and tilts ${t_his} head, "You would get along with the Commandant. He has the same views on that topic. It's a rather sore point between him and Col. Shekhar." *if (Fimp = "Fed up") You sigh wearily, "Fed up of life and all the problems, fate seems to throw my way." ${tric} snorts, "First time I have heard that. Most people tend to be pissed, scared or determined. You...Lt. Dexer are another category all together." $!{t_he} rises and nods at the door. "You did good. That's all I need to know. I want you to write a report for Col. Shekhar and the commandant. No need to write one for me, because I have all the facts I require. I shall just add it to the case file later on. Remember to add the details of your emotions and thoughts, along with your nightmares for Col. Shekhar. She has been assigned as your psychiatric evaluator and research officer. I'll be on base till Marshal Ashyver and General Dorian arrive. If you have any more information or need to talk about something, don't hesitate to reach out." You nod in affirmation but then a part of ${t_his} orders catch your attention, "The Marshal and GIC Dorian will be coming to the base?" ${tric} holds the door open for you, "Yes. Lieutenant, a security breach is a very serious issue. You and Lt. Basri managed to thwart an attack and rebuild the wall with a small contingent of 350 soldiers. Both the Marshal and the other GICs will be arriving as soon as the Capital is clear." You follow ${t_him} out the door and hasten your pace to keep up with ${t_his} long strides. "Why would I need psychiatric evaluation?" "It's procedure. Everyone who returns from a field excursion is put through it. Even your previous unit in Vashi is under evaluation. Every single one of them has received a Field Marshal's commendation medal, along with a 15 day recuperation leave." $!{t_he} slows down as you reach the Commandant's office. With two knocks, ${t_he} twists the knob and holds the door open for you. As you stride in, your eyes land on the four figures sitting around the commandant's desk. Col. Shekhar, Sergeant Felix, Surgical Captain ${e} and the commandant look up simultaneously as ${tric} bolts the door behind you. ${e} folds ${e_his} arms and drawls, "I hope you didn't aggravate ${his} condition, Major Allori" The ${t_man} in question snorts, "As if I would dream of messing around with your patients." Col. Shekhar chuckles, "Yeah....didn't you break that officer's arm for threatening one of your patients last week." Commandant Delacroix rolls his eyes, "It would be much appreciated if we could get back to the matter on hand. Take a seat Lt. ${name}." You obey and pick a soft leather chair to Col. Shekhar's left. Major Allori leans against the wall and motions towards you. "$!{he} gave me the details. Since the investigation is active and I will be staying on base, I want access to Col. Shekhar's evaluation records and files." *page_break "Well, Ananya..." "I don't mind. In fact, I can have one of the auxiliary storerooms converted into an office for you. Your old quarters are still vacant and we can have it prepared for you, if you want." "Thank you, ma'am." ${e} leans forward, "About the P.L tests, I think it would be best to let ${name} rest for at least 3 more days, before our Colonel here begins drilling into ${his} head." Col. Shekhar nods, "Whatever the good doctor orders. I can schedule the first test on the coming weekend." ${e} shrugs, "Good enough for me." Col. Shekhar pumps her fist in the air, "Yessssss.....finally. I have been yearning to dissect that brain of yours since they got you here." Your eyes go wide and the Colonel backtracks, "Oh....yikes....not like with a blade and gloves. I meant psychologically. Since I will be peeping into your head, you can call me Sheiks. It's what all my friends call me." The commandant snorts, "Alright...since that's cleared. I want all of you out of my office. ${tric}, the Air Marshal would like a word with you, ${e} will show ${name} to ${his} quarters and Sheiks....." "Yes, sir?" The commandant grins like a Cat B with its prey in sight, "Get out of my office." Col. Shekhar pouts, "But you still haven't signed my battle plan...." Rubbing his temples, the commandant snarks, "Oh...yes, capturing a live divryn for you to cut into and play mad scientist. Let me think on it.....once...[b]You get out of my office![/b]" She rolls her eyes and mutters curses under her breath as she storms out. ${e} taps your elbow and you both rise from your seats. Major Allori holds the door open for the both of you. As you stride out, you turn towards ${e}, "What was that about?" $!{e_he} shrugs, "Trust me...its usually worse than that." ${tric} pats ${e} on the shoulder, "Well...I am going to be staying in my old room again. Just like the good old days." "True....want me to give the others a heads up?" "Nope...I'd rather surprise them. I'll be seeing the both of you at dinner." With that Major Allori spins on ${t_his} heel and strides off. ${e} tugs your arm with a smile, "Come on, ${name}. You can finally see your new room." Without waiting for a response, ${e_he} drags you along. The Officers quarters are located right next to the Administration Building. It's a short walk but your aching muscles say otherwise. The quarters building has 3 floors including the ground floor and your room is on the 1st floor, which means that you have to climb 14 stairs to reach salvation. Pulling your last reserves together, you trudge up the stairs and take a short breather as ${e} unlocks the door to your room. *page_break "And...here we are..." ${e} stands in the doorway and motions for you to enter. Without wasting any time, you walk through and stop as you scan your new home away from home. It reminds you of your old barracks. A large closet for your clothes, a dressing table with a mirror, a wash basin, study table and 2 pairs of chairs, fireplace and the cot. All of it is the same. That's one blessing of being in the military, all your furniture looks the same and is arranged symmetrically. Though there is one major change. Somebody went through the trouble of personalizing it for you. Reading your mind, ${e} steps close and mumbles, "${alistair} described your old room to us. I decided it would be nice, if we made it a little more suited to your taste. So do you like it...." You smile, "It's just like my room back home." *fake_choice # It's a bright and light theme. Light coloured wallpapers and a open cream curtains. *set room "1" # It's a cosy and homey theme. Warm pastel colours and oakwood furniture with frames. *set room "2" # It's a dark and mysterious theme. Dark wallpaper and dim lights. *set room "3" # It's basic with no special theme. The same orthodox cream walls and dark furniture. *set room "4" # Personalized with all your favourite knick knacks and frames. *set room "5" # Cluttered with prototypes, books and carvings along with your work desk and tool cabinet. *set room "6" # All your favourite blades and assorted weapon models along with posters line the walls. *set room "7" Rubbing ${e_his} hands together, ${e_he} smiles, "Splendid. I'll let you get some rest now. I'll come up or send someone to fetch you when its time for dinner. Remember to lock up and change into something loose fitting so that your skin can breathe. That uniform is not easy on bruises. And try to sleep on your back instead of your side." You sigh, "Yes...yes...I will." "Good...see you in a few hours." You bolt the door and close the curtains before taking a seat on the edge of your bed. Gently untying the straps, you pull off your boots and unfurl the socks. Wriggling your toes, you stand and head over to the tall wooden closet. The cool tile feels nice on your hot soles. You may have slept for 8 days but you did spend the day walking all over the base. Opening the closet door, you unbutton your blazer and hang it on the inbuilt hook. Without the blazer, your bandages are in plain view, allowing you to see the day's damage. Hissing in reaction to the pain, you slowly unfurl the white wrapping and examine the stitches and cuts on your ${skin} skin. The stitches on the back of your right hand have a purple tint around them. You gently blow on your palms to soothe the red marks. Your eyes shift to the shirt covering your other wounds. You walk to the dressing table and take a seat on the small stool placed in front of it. The bruise on your forehead has dulled somewhat and your lip is still a little sore. *if (gender="male") It seems like somebody went through the trouble of giving you a shave. One of the many rules you have to follow in the Vanguard is no facial hair. Your face must always be shaved and clear. *if (gender="non-binary") It seems like somebody went through the trouble of giving you a shave. One of the many rules you have to follow in the Vanguard is no facial hair. Your face must always be shaved and clear. *if ((style = "crew cut") and (style = "chin length")) You pluck a wayward strand and tuck it back. Running your fingers through them, you notice that even your hair reflects your condition. The once lustrous ${hair} has dulled to a weaker shade. *if ((style = "shoulder length") and (style = "medium length")) You pull out the pins and pluck the band, letting your soft tresses tumble down your shoulders. Running your fingers through them, you notice that even your hair reflects your condition. The once lustrous ${hair} has dulled to a weaker shade. *if (style = "long") You pluck the band and unravel the braid, letting the soft tresses flow down your back. Being stuck in a braid for so long, their usually ${texture} texture has developed into neat corkscrew curls. Running your fingers through them, you notice that even your hair reflects your condition. The once lustrous ${hair} has dulled to a weaker shade. *if (style = "buzz cut") You rub a hand over the prickly stubs. Your hair seems to have grown out a little. You could grow it out or shave it. *if (gender="male") Sighing, you unbutton the black shirt, revealing the dark grey under shirt. You pull it off and throw it in the laundry bin. Your bare chest is peppered with pale bruises and there is a white cotton pad taped with adhesive antiseptic paste above your left pec. It stings as you peel it off and you notice that the thread holding the stitches has already dissolved. *if (gender="female") Sighing, you unbutton the black shirt, revealing the dark grey breast band. The cups are irritating your breasts and you remind yourself to buy more comfortable ones when you get the chance. Straining the muscles in your shoulder and arms, you reach behind you to untie the laces. These breast bands are comfortable and very durable, though the laces are tough to untie. Perhaps you should get those front binding ones so that you don't have to kill your muscles trying to reach back. At least for situations like this. *if (gender="non-binary") Sighing, you unbutton the black shirt, revealing the dark grey cotton shift. The material itself is soft and allows your skin to breathe. Straining the muscles in your shoulder and arms, you reach behind you to untie the laces. Maybe the next time you go shopping, you might remember to get the front binding ones. That way you won't nearly kill yourself trying to get out of your underwear. You move to the open closet and pick out a soft linen shirt. Shrugging off the ${top}, you pull on the shirt and unbuckle the belt, hanging it on the hook. You pluck the button of your uniform trousers and unzip them, letting them pool around your feet. Stretching your aching limbs, you slip into a pair of soft grey pants. Different from your usual night clothes of course. No need to scare the poor soldier who will be your wake up gong. Rubbing your eyes, you let your body fall on the soft mattress and tug the duvet to your chin. Slowly your body and mind relax as you fall into a deep slumber. *page_break Meanwhile.... [b][i]161 Air Station, Briar Cantonment, Gate Briar. [/i][/b] Allen watches a drill sergeant grill the airmen on field. His thoughts keep trailing back to ${name}, it was amusing how much ${he} resembled him. Even Nathan was astonished at the resemblance and Ananya wouldn't stop drawing comparisons between their features. Maybe they would have found ${name} a lot sooner, if they would have been looking for someone who resembles Alina and himself. His mind drifts to the letter, Rheyan had sent yesterday. [i]I need some pills for my headache[/i] 7 words in code. It actually means; [i]Reach MOD as early as you can. It's urgent[/i] The Ministry of Defence is the one place where all secrets stay secrets. Minister Jian Shizu is one of the only ministers who is loyal to the crown and Sienna. They are a veteran M.P who served as the empress's head of security during the war. Either Rheyan now knows about ${name} or......there's going to be another breach. "You seem tense....." Allen scowls, "Teri! For the nth time! Quit sneaking up on me!" Major Allori chuckles, "Why? It's so much fun to see an old man like you jump a mile high." "I am not old! Hah! I am practically in better shape than any person my age!" "Sure....old man." "Oh! Pipe down! I have to buy some pills for a headache." ${tric} nods briskly, "So..will you be visiting the pharmacy or the MH." "Pharmacy...." "Want me to come along?" "No. I may be old, but I can still take care of myself." "When are you leaving?" "In about 15 minutes, when my carriage arrives." "Any thing else?' "Take care of my aero." *page_break "Yes sir." [b][i]Back in the Officers Quarters.....[/i][/b] [b]Bang! Bang! Bang![/b] You startle and sit up in bed as someone bangs on your door. [b]"Open up! It's ${c}!"[/b] Pulling off the duvet, you stretch and hurry over to open the door. As soon as you open the door, ${c} pushes past you, still attired in ${c_his} flight suit, followed by a sleek silver figure. "Good morning..." That snaps your attention, "Wait..it's morning?" ${c} nods, "Yeah. ${e} came to wake you up for dinner last night, but you were sleeping like a baby. So ${e_he} decided to leave you be. Since everybody else is already up and running, like seriously they are all at PT. ${e} sent me to fetch you for your medication." Squinting, you ask, "What time is it?" "7:00 hours." You rub your eyes and stare at the big ball of fur sniffing around your room. As your vision clears, you realize that you are looking at a huge silver wolfhound. It continues sniffing your room, as you turn to ${c} with a confused expression. "Who is that?" ${c} chortles and whistles, "Come here, girl" Deliriously wagging her tail, she trots over to ${c} and rubs her head against ${c_his} thigh. "Lt. ${name} Dexer meet Corporal... *choice # Dash *set pup "Racer" *goto 86 # Bones *set pup "Bones" *goto 86 # Devil *set pup "Devil" *goto 86 # It's.... *label pup *input_text pup *goto p8p *goto 86 *label p8p Are you sure, it's ${pup}? *choice # Yes. *goto 86 # No *goto pup *label 86 Still groggy from your long nap, you stand unmoving as she approaches and starts sniffing you. "$!{pup} is the team's canine soldier. She is roughly 2 years old and is still a little rough around the edges. Keep your hands away, if you don't fancy getting them ripped off. Wolfhounds tend to be very protective and aggressive. Let her finish sniffing you." You hold still as ${pup} sniffs you and circles you once. Satisfied, she sits down and holds up a paw for a handshake. ${c} lifts a brow and stares at you with surprise and a hint of jealousy, "She never does that. Even ${e} and ${a} don't get handshakes. She must really like you." Tail thumping against the tiled floor, ${pup} watches you with big brown eyes, waiting for you to shake her paw. *fake_choice # You are normally terrified of dogs, especially dogs as big as this. But somehow you can't resist those puppy eyes. # You tend to be a little skittish around dogs, but you can't help but submit to those powerful puppy eyes. # Its love at first sight. # Your stone heart is no match for those eyes. # You try to play it cool....you do...and yet...you feel yourself..falling...in..love.. You take a knee, wrap your hand around her paw and give it a firm shake. "Pleased to meet you Corporal ${pup}." Taking advantage of your weak condition, Corporal ${pup} nuzzles your neck and licks your nose. You chuckle and try your best to protect yourself but she is relentless. She braces her paw on your knee and licks your chin and ears. ${c} snarks, "Wow....maybe I should leave the two of you alone. I feel like such a third wheel here. ${pup}....you traitor. I thought you loved me most." As if feeling guilty, ${pup} climbs off you and pounces on ${c}, nuzzling her head on ${c_his} stomach. "Hah! Did you think it would be that easy? I know your tricks little miss. First me, who's next...${a}?" Struggling you manage to get to your feet and wipe your face with the back of your sleeve. "Her favourite is ${a}?" "Mhmmm....${pup} was raised and trained by ${a}. That reminds me.....The Commandant wants you in his office by sharp 9:00 hours." Wiping your ears, you mutter, "Right...just let me get changed." ${c} grins at you flirtatiously, "I can help...." *fake_choice # You snort, "Thanks, but I can manage." "Okay...but for real..if you need help, I am right outside." "Sure thing." "Want me to drag ${pup} out?" You turn about and look at ${pup} who has her butt firmly planted on the rug next to your bed. She huffs and stares in defiance. You shrug, "I don't think she's going anywhere." ${c} smirks, "Yeah....and since I value my hands, I am going to wait for you on the staircase." With that ${c_he} strides out as you lock the door behind you. *set cf +1 *set ca %+10 *set Friendly %+10 *set Polite %+10 # Heat floods your cheeks as your eyes go wide at ${c_his} offer. "Ummm....there's nothing....", you stutter as ${c_he} approaches you with a smug grin. "Oh..I am pretty sure that there are a lot of things....hiding under those clothes." You bite your lip and slowly back up, "No...you don't understand...." $!{c_he} stops in ${c_his} tracks and watches you with a faint frown marring ${c_his} attractive face. "What don't I understand?" You blush harder and wince, "I...I am...not wearing...anything...under this..." The frown drops and a sharp grin takes it's place, "Well...as if my fantasies weren't enough....." $!{c_he} steps closer and drawls " You just gave me some new material to work with tonight." You swallow as tendrils of heat crawl down your neck and pool in the pit of your stomach. "Material..." Leaning in, ${c_he} trails a thumb along your collarbone, "Yes....material...ideas....anything and everything that ends up with you screaming my name..." ${c_his} thumb trails up your neck, sending pleasant shivers tumbling down your spine. $!{c_he} gently rubs it along you bottom lip and leans in as your nerves tingle in anticipation. *page_break [b]"Woof! Woof!"[/b] A silver projectile lands in the space between you and ${c}, ruining the mood. ${c} snarls playfully, "Bad ${pup}! I know you like ${him} , but you had better back off. I saw ${him} first!" ${pup} wags her tail and barks playfully as if laying her claim. ${c} sighs, "Damn mutt.....I don't think she's going to let me touch you again. I am going to go out and lick my wounds in peace." You chuckle and bolt the door as ${c_he} strides out. *set cr +1 *set ca %+10 *set Shy %+10 # You wink, "I'd rather have you watch...." ${c} raises a dark brow and strides towards you with a smug little grin. You hold your ground and tilt your head, watching ${c_him} approach with a bored expression. $!{c_he} leans in and wraps ${c_his} hand around your neck, tilting it to have you look into ${c_his} eyes. A pleasant thrill drags its claws down your back as ${c_he} traces your bottom lip with ${c_his} thumb. "Try all you want...keep playing the hard to get card....But there is one thing you should know....I always...get...my ${man}..." You look at ${c_him} with half lidded eyes and coo, "I am not wearing a ${top}." ${c_his} eyes go dark as ${c_he} presses closer and gives you a sharp seductive smile, "Oh good...that means less layers and more time....." "For what..." "To have you squirming in pleasure....moaning my name......" Your lips are merely a breath away as you lean forward for the kiss. *page_break [b]"Woof! Woof!"[/b] A silver cannon shell rams into you, disrupting your kiss and utterly burning your mood. ${c} snarls playfully, "God darn it ${pup}! I saw ${him} first! I get first shot!" As if laying her claim, ${pup} nuzzles her snout against your thigh and barks back. ${c} sighs, "Damn mutt.....I don't think she's going to let me touch you again. I am going to go out and lick my wounds in peace." "Awww...too bad. I was looking forward to you keeping up to your words but....alas it's not meant to be." you tease. ${c} turns and gives you a look that has your blood simmering, "Trust me darling, one of these days...I will have my way with you." "Oh...promises..such delicate things...aren't they.." With that parting shot, you bolt the door behind ${c_him}. *set cr +1 *set ca %+10 *set Shy %-10 # Without a flicker of emotion, you speak, "No, thank you." "Okay...but for real..if you need help, I am right outside." You nod briskly. "Want me to drag ${pup} out?" You turn about and look at ${pup} who has her butt firmly planted on the rug next to your bed. She huffs and stares in defiance. You shrug, "Not required." ${c} smirks, "Wow....since...${a} is the ice${a_king}, you can be the winter monarch." With that ${c_he} strides out as you lock the door behind you. *set Polite %+10 *set ca %+5 *set Friendly %-10 # "Gaaah! NO! Get out of here you weird pervert!" ${c} clutches ${c_his} chest and wheezes, "You wound me..." You snarl, "Don't make me hurt you....." Huffing in annoyance, ${c_he} rolls ${c_his} eyes, "Alright! Alright! Geese....do you want to kick ${pup} out with me?" You turn about and look at ${pup} who has her butt firmly planted on the rug next to your bed. She huffs and stares in defiance. "She stays...." "Wow...you pick a dog over me....a fellow human?" "Yes...now shooo" With a mocking whine, ${c} strides out the door and you bolt it behind ${c_him}. *set Polite %-10 *set Friendly %-10 *set ca %-5 ${pup} watches you with interest as you cross the room and open your cupboard. Picking out a pair of your new uniform, you lay it on the bed and move to the sink. Turning the knob, you splash your face with the cool water and let it drip down your features. Plucking your toothbrush, you lather it with toothpaste and brush your aching teeth. Even though you slept for 13 hours, your body still feels...exhausted. Not even tired....just plain, bone deep exhaustion. Perhaps its a good idea to let the Surgical Captain know about this, when you meet ${e_him}. After drying your face, you shrug off your pants and slip into the uniform trousers. The oddly plush mattress sinks under your weight as you take a seat. Your brain feels sluggish and yet....there are a million things running through it. Stretching your arms, you peel off the linen shirt and sit bare for a few minutes, trying to pull your errant thoughts together. You are startled out of your reverie when you feel something cold and wet touch the bare skin of your waist. It's just ${pup} nuzzling you with her adorable wet nose. Sighing, you gently pat her head and pull on a ${top} along with your shirt and button it up, before shifting your attention to finding a clean pair of socks. Once, when you were about 9 years old, you made the mistake of recycling your school socks for a week. The resulting rash and infection still makes your toes feel jumpy about socks. As you pull out a fresh pair, ${pup} wags her tail and grabs your boots for you, gently dropping them at your feet. Whatever they say about your new CO, you must admit that ${a_he} is an excellent trainer. Scratching her ears, you plop down and pull on your boots, tying the laces with nimble fingers. [i]Strange....[/i] [i]Your body feels light as a feather....[/i] Shrugging it off as paranoia, you stride to the door and hold it open for ${pup}, "Good girls first....." With an excited yip, she trots out and you lock the door. ${c} rises from ${c_his} seat on the stairs as ${pup} bounds towards ${c_him}. "Hey..traitor..." "Woof!" As you approach ${c_him}, ${c} looks up and ${c_his} eyes widen in horror. *page_break "Shit...you are bleeding!" You stare back in confusion, "What do you mean?" ${c} winces, "Your....nose is bleeding..." It takes a while for you to register ${c_his} words and you rub your fingers under your nose as red stains your fingers. ${c} plucks a handkerchief from one of ${c_his} pockets and hands it to you. "Here use this. Lucky for you, I went shopping yesterday and got a new set." Tilting your head back, you press the clean white kerchief to your nose and mumble a thanks. With that taken care of, the both of you set off towards the main block with ${pup} following at your heels. The warm early morning sunlight blinds your sensitive eyes and the droning of the air sirens jolts you out of your early morning lethargy. You blink to adjust your eyes and take in the soldiers going through their morning PT. Since you are medically unfit as of now, you have been excused from any physical activities. Squinting, you turn to ${c}, "Why are you excused and still in uniform?" "Because I just landed a two hours ago. I had to fly cargo shipments to Malowe last night." "But aren't aviators prohibited from flying after sunset." "Yes, because of visibility issues. But now we have new Jegda models which were built for night flights." You listen with interest as ${c} explains the new flight protocols to you. It seems like you had missed out on a lot of new inventions and prototypes, during your stay on Galactus. Makes sense as Galactus is one of the most poorly equipped walls fronts in Sienna. You wonder if the Government finally came to its senses and works on balancing equipment and funds for Galactus. Walking is a lot easier today and ${c} doesn't have to slow down for you. Lost in your discussion, time flies by and soon you stand in front of S.C Nehsar's door. You knock twice and twist the knob, when you hear a "come in". As you open the door, ${pup} rushes in and tackles the good doctor who is seated behind a metal desk cluttered with bottles of medicines and other medical equipment. ${e}'s office is designed the same as Cpt. ${a}, though ${e}'s reminds you of Doctor Thresher's clinic. Clean white tiles, bookcase with books on medicine, a cabinet filled with medical equipment like gauze, bandages, needles and all the scary cutting tools. Oddly enough the entire clinic feel is ruined by the aromatic scent of rosewood incense. It feels more like a calming temple of wisdom than a doctor's office. ${c} inhales deeply and speaks your mind, "Geese...doc...your office feels like a mystic temple..." ${e} chuckles, "That's probably because of the incense." Then ${e_he} gently pushes off ${pup} and shifts ${e_his} attention to you. "How do you feel?" "Better." ${c} frowns, "Hey, your nose was bleeding." ${e} rises and motions for you to take a seat on a cushioned chair. "Was it bleeding when you woke up or after?" "After", you mutter as you take a seat. *page_break "That's not good." Your brows furrow in confusion, "But why?" ${e} pulls back the curtained partition revealing an examination bed. "Well it's too soon to say, but nose bleeds during this season are not normal." ${c} pats ${pup} on the head and grins, "I still have to submit my reports, see you folks at lunch. Come on ${pup}, I bet ${i} has a treat for you." Her ears perk up at the word "treat" but she stays put. ${e} frowns, "That's weird. Go on girl." ${c} drawls, "She's in love with ${name}. I think I am going to call it....puppy love. "Seriously?" "Oh come on...that's funny." ${pup} looks at you with conflicted eyes. You pat her head, "Go on girl. I'll be fine." Wagging her tail, she trots out the door with ${c}. ${e} chuckles as ${e_he} locks the door and strides over to ${e_his} desk, preparing a tray with your prescribed treatment. "Good old ${pup}. She is a tether dog, meaning that she has been trained to act as an emotional support for soldiers who suffer from depression and PTSD. ${a} is the one who trained her as a canine scout." That explains her attachment to you. Impressive, you look so miserable that even dogs feel bad for you. ${e} continues with ${e_his} back to you, "Strip down and lie down on the bed." *fake_choice # "I can already tell that this is going to be painful", you grumble. "I shall try to be gentle....no promises though". "Obviously....that would just be a waste of energy." As you strip down, ${e} hands you a hanger to arrange your uniform on. Dressed in only a ${top} and ${bottom}, you lie down on the cool white sheets. ${e} arranges the partition to shield you and drags one of those moving carts. Bottles of medicine and ointment along with gauze, bandages and a very sharp scalpel sit on the cart. You follow ${e_his} hands as ${e_he} snaps on a pair of gloves and picks up the scalpel. Frowning, you ask, "What do you need that for?" ${e} smiles, "Relax ${name}. I only need it to open the seal on this bottle. It's tough to pull off and I nicked my finger the last time, I tried opening it with bare hands." "So, why am I on this bed?" "Because I need to massage your muscles with this ointment. Your muscles were dormant for 8 days, if we don't get the blood flowing, they will cramp. These cramps will damage your muscles and are going to be very painful." "Yeah, let's not make that happen." "Agreed." Plucking open a tin of green minty smelling ointment, ${e} spreads it on your arm and with firm hands pulls and kneads the muscles there. The ointment has a nice cooling sensation and ${e} gives a fantastic massage. All the knots and sore points are rubbed out and by the end of it, you feel like a fluffy cloud. ${e} chuckles while gently stretching your leg, "Sooo painful...isn't it." You frown and grumble playfully, "Don't ruin it." *set Polite %+10 *set Friendly %+10 *set es %+5 *set es +1 # The bold order has your skin burning and you try to compose yourself. You turn around and start unbuttoning your shirt, before shrugging it off. Without turning to face ${e_him}, you grab the hanger that ${e_he} holds out for you, brushing your fingers against ${e_his}. The contact deepens your blush and you try to brush it off. You can feel ${e_his} eyes on you as you move towards the bed and lie down. ${e} arranges the partition to shield you and drags one of those moving carts. Bottles of medicine and ointment along with gauze, bandages and a very sharp scalpel sit on the cart. You follow ${e_his} hands as ${e_he} snaps on a pair of gloves and picks up the scalpel. With a coy smile, ${e_he} mumbles, "You are blushing." Your eyes go wide and you sputter, "NO! I am not" $!{e_he} gently traces a finger against your cheek, "Your face is hot and your cheeks are pink...." Your poor heart picks up the pace , while your brain tries to come up with an excuse, "That's because of the scalpel.....sharp things make me nervous..." You mentally slap yourself excellent...real smooth...idiot....you are the soldier who works with blades and that's the best you can come up with. ${e} raises a brow and looks at you with mischief shining in ${e_his} eyes. "Relax ${name}. I only need it to open the seal on this bottle. It's tough to pull off and I nicked my finger the last time, I tried opening it with bare hands." Your very active imagination gets stuck on the way ${e_he} says bare hands. It must show on your face because ${e_he} swallows and with cheeks tinged pink busies ${e_himself} with the tin of ointment. "I..need you to lie down on your stomach..." You adjust your body and balance your chin on folded arms. $!{e_he} clears ${e_his} throat and scoops out a palmful of green minty smelling ointment and rubs it along your shoulder blades and back. You bury your face in your arms and try to hold back a moan as ${e_his} fingers knead out the sore muscles along lower back. Your brain must have short circuited because you mumble, "Feels...soo..good..." ${e}'s brows go sky high and ${e_he} bites ${e_his} cheek, "Well....if you are ever in need of a massage...come find me. I specialize in massages that do not require a single article of clothing...if you are interested." If you were feeling hot before, the room and the air feel boiling on point now. You swallow the moan that follows ${e_his} insistent fingers kneading the nape of your neck. The ointment has a nice cooling sensation and ${e} gives a fantastic massage. All the knots and sore points are rubbed out and by the end of it, you feel like a fluffy cloud. *set Shy %+10 *set es %+5 *set er +1 # "So dominant...", you coo as you unbutton your shirt slowly. $!{e_he} turns ${e_his} back to you, shifting ${e_his} attention to various tins. But you know that your comment has successfully jarred ${e_him} as ${e_his} cheeks are dusted pink and a small smile tugs at the corner of ${e_his} lips. You grab the hanger that ${e_he} holds out for you, brushing your fingers against ${e_his}. Arranging your clothes, you decide to bait ${e_him} and drawl, "So is it going to be a regular thing?" $!{e_he} raises a brow in confusion, "What is?" You shrug with a wink, "Me stripping, every time we meet." $!{e_his} eyes go wide and ${e_he} flushes red, "Oh....that...ha..right..(cough)..uh.." Seeing your prey paralysed, you move in for the killing blow, "It's unfair....maybe next time...to make it even..I'll have you...strip for me..." You didn't think it was possible for ${e_him} to recover from that blow, but the good doctor absorbs your blow and throws it right back at you, "Oh...you poor sweet thing...I don't think your heart could take it....." So that's how ${e_he} wants to play it. You shrug, "I don't know....I was wondering..." ${e} falls for it, "What?" You don't even grin, "How good you are with your hands....." $!{e_he} grins wolfishly, "Why don't you find out?" Scoffing you move towards the bed and lie down, ${e_his} eyes following your every motion. ${e} arranges the partition to shield you and drags one of those moving carts. Bottles of medicine and ointment along with gauze, bandages and a very sharp scalpel sit on the cart. You follow ${e_his} hands as ${e_he} snaps on a pair of gloves and picks up the scalpel. With a playful roll of your eyes, you grumble, "A scalpel? Really? I know that doctors have these really weird kinks...but isn't cutting...a bit morbid?" Leaning in, ${e_his} face inches away from yours, ${e_he} whispers, "Scared of a few cuts...${name}" You scoff, "Bring it..." Pulling back, ${e_he} smiles, "Lucky for you, I only need it to open the seal on this bottle. It's tough to pull off and I nicked my finger the last time, I tried opening it with bare hands." Biting your lower lip, you waggle your brows, "Bare hands...." Rolling ${e_his} eyes, ${e_he} murmurs, "I..need you to lie down on your stomach..." You adjust your body and balance your chin on folded arms. $!{e_he} clears ${e_his} throat and scoops out a palmfull of green minty smelling ointment and rubs it along your shoulder blades and back. You bury your face in your arms and try to hold back a moan as ${e_his} fingers knead out the sore muscles along your lower back. "Mmmmm.....not bad...." A tinge of pain follows that sentence as ${e} pinches your shoulder. "Ouch! Someone's feisty...." Another pinch and you chuckle, "Geese...so sensitive....alright...I submit....you give good massages..." ${e} bites ${e_his} bottom lip and whispers in your ear, "Well....if you are ever in need of a massage...come find me. I specialize in massages that do not require a single article of clothing...if you are interested." With a smug little grin, you murmur, "Oh...I don't know...It's going to take a lot more to convince me..of your skills.." As if responding to your challenge, ${e_he} presses a sore point and kneads it out with nimble fingers. The ointment has a nice cooling sensation and ${e} gives a fantastic massage. All the knots and sore points are rubbed out and by the end of it, you feel like a fluffy cloud. *set Shy %-10 *set es %+5 *set er +1 # Without a word, you get straight to business. As you strip down, ${e} hands you a hanger to arrange your uniform on. Dressed in only a ${top} and ${bottom}, you lie down on the cool white sheets. ${e} arranges the partition to shield you and drags one of those moving carts. Bottles of medicine and ointment along with gauze, bandages and a very sharp scalpel sit on the cart. You follow ${e_his} hands as ${e_he} snaps on a pair of gloves and picks up the scalpel. Frowning, you ask, "What do you need that for?" ${e} smiles, "Relax ${name}. I only need it to open the seal on this bottle. It's tough to pull off and I nicked my finger the last time, I tried opening it with bare hands." "So, why am I on this bed?" "Because I need to massage your muscles with this ointment. Your muscles were dormant for 8 days, if we don't get the blood flowing, they will cramp. These cramps will damage your muscles and are going to be very painful." Plucking open a tin of green minty smelling ointment, ${e} spreads it on your arm and with firm hands pulls and kneads the muscles there. The ointment has a nice cooling sensation and ${e} gives a fantastic massage. All the knots and sore points are rubbed out and by the end of it, you feel like a fluffy cloud. ${e} smiles, "Is the pressure alright?" "Yes." *set Polite %+10 *set Friendly %-10 *set es %+5 # "Fat chance! I learnt my lesson the last time!" "Must you insist on being a baby every time we do this....". "I have concerns...." "Get over it. I am a very busy ${e_man}." You snark, "Whatever, let's get this over with." As you strip down, ${e} hands you a hanger to arrange your uniform on. Dressed in only a ${top} and ${bottom}, you lie down on the cool white sheets. ${e} arranges the partition to shield you and drags one of those moving carts. Bottles of medicine and ointment along with gauze, bandages and a very sharp scalpel sit on the cart. You follow ${e_his} hands as ${e_he} snaps on a pair of gloves and picks up the scalpel. Frowning, you ask, "What do you need that for?" ${e} smiles, "Relax ${name}. I only need it to open the seal on this bottle. It's tough to pull off and I nicked my finger the last time, I tried opening it with bare hands." "So, why am I on this bed?" "Because I need to massage your muscles with this ointment. Your muscles were dormant for 8 days, if we don't get the blood flowing, they will cramp. These cramps will damage your muscles and are going to be very painful." "You had better be good." "Not the best argument to use on a ${e_man} holding the scalpel." Plucking open a tin of green minty smelling ointment, ${e} spreads it on your arm and with firm hands pulls and kneads the muscles there. The ointment has a nice cooling sensation and ${e} gives a fantastic massage. All the knots and sore points are rubbed out and by the end of it, you feel like a fluffy cloud. ${e} chuckles while gently stretching your leg, "Sooo painful...isn't it." You frown and grumble, "Don't ruin it." *set Polite %-10 *set Friendly %-10 *set Genuine %-10 *page_break 45 relaxing minutes later... As you tuck in your uniform shirt, ${e} spouts instructions and arranges the various pills and syrups that are part of your medication. "Take these..1 each...half of this one after breakfast, lunch and dinner. This one at night before you sleep. You need to take these for at least the next two weeks and...." Shrugging on your blazer, you mutter, "What is it?" "I am increasing the time period of your diet to two weeks from today." You frown and are about to protest when the door bangs open and in stomps a very pissed off ${v}. "Mother of all things holy! I have been looking all over for you!" ${e} shakes ${e_his} head in exasperation, "And what has ${he} done to have you hunt ${him} down at 8:15 in the morning?" ${v} scoffs, "I'll fill you in when I am not in a hurry." Before you can button the cuffs of your blazer, ${v} grabs your arm, "Oh for heavens sake, button up on your time. Come on!" With that ${v_he} roughly drags you out the door, as ${e} calls out, "I'll bring your medicines later on." Marching through the corridor, with a snarl or a scowl aimed at all who stand in ${v_his} way, ${v} drags you to the 3rd floor and pushes you into one of the empty conference rooms. Locking the door behind ${v_him}, your arm still clutched tight, ${v_he} turns to you with a snarl, "I need you to cover for me and take this letter to the Captain." *fake_choice # "Say please and I will", you say with a smug expression. ${v} grabs your collar, "Are you for real! This is important!" You keep cool, "Say please..." "But Why?" "Because that's how you ask favours. It's a good habit. So go on..." Sniffing like a guilty child, ${v} lets go of your collar, "Please..." $!{v_he} shuffles ${v_his} feet and looks down as the tips of ${v_his} nose and ears go red, "${name}, would you...please...deliver this letter for me..." You sigh and pat ${v_him} on the shoulder, "See...all you had to do is say please. Yes, ${v}. I will cover you, go on." ${v} looks a conflicted and a small grin breaks over ${v_his} face, "Thanks...you aren't all that much of a stuck up baby after all." You wince and screech, "Shhhh...not so loud. Nobody can know...." ${v} actually chuckles and it's rather surprising as ${v} is one of those people who laughs with their entire face. $!{v_his} face lights up and ${v_his} eyes twinkle with mirth, "See you around Dexer." *set vf +1 *set ve %+5 *set Polite %+10 *set Friendly %+10 # Your breath hitches in your throat as you feel ${v_him} leaning in. $!{v_he} leans in and grabs your collar, "I need you to do this." The sudden proximity has your heart fluttering and your breathing goes a little shallow as you stutter, "Ummm...okay..." ${v}'s eyes go a little wide and ${v_he} sighs, "Good." But ${v_he} still doesn't release you and stares at your face. You lock eyes with ${v_his} twinkling emerald ones and feel ${v_him} move closer. Unable to handle the intense look, you mutter, "Uh...can you let me go now..?" Lost in your gaze, $!{v_he} simply hums, "Mhmmm..." "Ummm...${v}?" "Hmmmm..." "${v}..." Snapping out of it, ${v_he} shakes ${v_his} head, "Did you say something?" "Yeah...can you let me go now?" Startling ${v_he} pulls back, "Oh! Yeah! Right! Sorry about that!" $!{v_he} clears ${v_his} throat and hands you the letter, "Thanks! I owe you! See you later, Yeah! Bye!" As you smile and move towards the door, ${v_he} calls out, "Hey..${name}.." You turn and wait for ${v_him} to continue. "You have really pretty....uhhhh...manners! See ya!" You shrug and walk out, as ${v} mumbles curses under ${v_his} breath. *set ve %+10 *set vr +1 *set Shy %+10 # You lean in and adjust ${v_his} collar, "What do I get?" $!{v_he} tilts ${v_his} head with a confused expression, "What do you want?" You grin like a hungry Cat B, "What are you willing to give me?" ${v} rolls ${v_his} eyes and grabs your collar, "Listen here doll face, I need a straight answer here. What will it take for you to deliver these papers for me?" You raise a brow and coo, "Hmmm....tell me that I am the most ${handsome} ${man}, you have ever seen....down on one knee." Growling to hide the grin that threatens to break out, ${v_he} shakes you and snarls, "ARE YOU INSANE? I AM NOT DOING THAT!" You hum, "Hmmm...okay. See you later...[i]Doll face...[/i]" Frowning like a petulant child, ${v_he} sighs, "Fine..I'll do it. But if you tell anybody...I will fucking kill you..." Getting down on one knee, ${v_he} intertwines ${v_his} fingers with yours and speaks with a sarcastic smile, "${name}...." "Yes, V.C ${v} Archer?" "You are the most ${handsome} ${man}, I have ever laid eyes on." And ${v_he} lightly brushes ${v_his} lips against the back of your hand. Your brows raise in surprise as the soft contact has your heart doing jumps. ${v} rises and snarks, "Geese...who knew....all it took to shut you up was a light kiss on your hand. " You scoff, "Maybe you should try it on other parts....my silence might last longer....if the right part is kissed...." A light chuckle escapes ${v_him} and ${v_he} groans, "No...That would just make you louder...now will you do it..." You hold out your hand, "Well, you passed. So hand it over." Back to scowling, ${v} hands you the letter and snarks, "Here you go. Be fast." "Yes, ${v_sir}" You smile and stride out the door, feeling ${v}'s eyes trailing down your body. *set ve %+5 *set vr +1 *set Shy %-10 # You nod, "Alright." "Wait...you are going to do it?" "Yes." "But don't you have questions?" "No." "Aren't you the least bit suspicious about what's written in it?" "I am." "And you are still going to do it?" "Yes." "But why?" "Do you want it done?" "Ya..but..." "Then hand it over." ${v} looks at you with wide eyes and mutters, "Okay..." $!{v_he} hands you the letter and shrugs, "See you later.." You wave and stride out the door without a second glance. *set Polite %+10 *set Friendly %-10 *set ve %+5 # You scoff and fold your arms, "Do I look like an idiot? How would I know that there's nothing malicious in that letter?" ${v} grabs your collar and growls, "It's imperative that you deliver it and the shit's confidential." You grab ${v_his} collar and snarl, "Give me one good reason to do you any favours" ${v} shakes you, "CAUSE YOU HAVE NO CHOICE!" You shake ${v_him}, "OR WHAT?" "I AM GONNA KICK YOUR ASS!" "RIGHT BACK AT YOU!" The both of you lock into a staring contest and you blink first, because your eyes were killing you. "HAH! You blinked first!" "Fine...I'll do it. Give it" ${v} hands you the letter and grumbles, "Try not to lose it, you dumb shit." "Nanananana..." You snatch the letter from ${v_his} hand and stride out, mumbling curses under your breath. *set Polite %-10 *set Friendly %-10 *set Genuine %-10 *page_break (Rumble...) Your stomach clenches with pain and you remember that you haven't had anything to eat since yesterday afternoon. That and you still need to eat, before you take your medicines and there is still some time to burn before you have to report to the commandant. Might as well get fed while you are at it, even if it's tasteless glop. At least the juice tastes nice, even though it has strips of Aloe vera pulp. "Wow...you look like you are being fed ugly horse food." You turn and see ${i} leaning against the wall. However instead of the usual black uniform, ${i_he} is dressed in a form fitting black shirt and workman trousers with multiple pockets and a tool belt. With a dark grin, ${i_he} drawls, "Oh wait a minute, you are on horse food diet. I must say that its doing wonders for your skin and hair." You give ${i_him} a sour look and ${i_he} rolls ${i_his} eyes, "Come on ${man}, that was a classic...." Still unimpressed and depressed about your food issues, you stride off towards the mess hall with ${i} walking by your side. "Yeesh...you need to be around positive and happy people, like.....people who aren't me." You huff, "Easy for you....I have to eat tasteless glop...again for the next 2 weeks..." ${i} frowns, "But didn't the S.G say one week...." "Yeah...${e_he} added another week..." You move to open the door to the hall, but ${i} beats you to it and holds it open, "Grumps, first...." Sighing, you walk in to an almost deserted mess hall. The only people in the room are ${e}, the chef on duty and Baldric. Looking up from ${e_his} conversation with Baldric, ${e} waves you over, "${name}, Hasher....what are you doing here?" ${i} shrugs and takes a seat next to you, "I pulled an all nighter at the lab. Sheiks and me were busy working on a prototype. She wants it to be ready by the time the field excursion returns." ${e} looks like ${e_he} wants to ask a few more questions but is interrupted by Baldric. "S.G Nehsar, Col. Vasily is asking for you." ${e} frowns and sighs, "Thank you, Baldric. I'll leave right away. Just bring the Lieutenant ${his} breakfast." Baldric nods and jogs off, ${e} turns to you, "I have ordered Baldric to give you your tablets with every meal. So don't worry about it. The man is loyal and very intelligent. I trust him with my life." Standing up, ${e_he} taps the table and nods at ${i}, "Make sure ${name} eats the full serving along with the medicines." *page_break "Yes..mommy..." ${e} smiles, "Now behave while I am gone and do not get into any trouble." "I love you mommy...see you later, when you come to tuck me in and read me a bedtime story." ${e} swats ${i_his} shoulder playfully and marches off. The moment ${e_he} steps out the door, ${i} turns to you and snickers, "Geese...${e_he}'s such a mother hen. It's one of the reasons, I call ${e_him} momma Nehsar. I think ${e_he} likes it." As ${i} smiles, you notice the weary lines around ${i_his} eyes and the exhaustion in ${i_his} body language. "Shouldn't you be heading to bed?" "Sure....I'll go to bed when momma Nehsar comes back and sings me a lullaby." Your retort is interrupted by Baldric who places the tray of glop, carrots and a bottle of fruit juice in front of you. The retort dies on your tongue as a look of hopeless gloom settles on your features. Baldric pulls out two bottles of some pink liquid and pours them in two bowls, he then pops three small white pills into them and waits. When the colour remains same, he nods satisfied with the results and puts three identical pills on the edge of your tray. "Your medicine, ${sir}." He then turns to ${i}, "What should I get for you, ${i_sir}?'' ${i} purses ${i_his} lips and looks at you for a moment, before answering the man, "I'm good Baldric. I'll just help the Lieutenant finish ${his} horse glop." Baldric nods sagely, "As you wish ${sir}." As soon as Baldric is out of sight, you roll the pills between the pads of your fingers. You have been in the military long enough to know what Baldric just did. He tested your pills, to make sure that they were the ones ${e} prescribed. A lot of murders and accidents happen like this, one misplaced tablet or drug is all it takes. The question is why would someone poison you? Perhaps you are over thinking it and its standard procedure in a NH unit. ${i} snaps ${i_his} fingers in front of your face, "Hey....quit stalling. Tell you what...if you are going to be such a baby about it..I'll just have to feed you." *fake_choice # You sigh, "I am not being a baby...here I'll take the first bite." Plucking the spoon from ${i_his} hands, you scoop up the bland oatmeal and stuff it into your mouth. ${i} looks at you with a smile, "Swallow it." You swallow and the mushy mixture trails down your throat making you gag. Laughing, ${i} rubs ${i_his} hands together, "After witnessing the various faces you made in these past two minutes, I might be having some second thoughts about this...." You scowl, "Oh...no. You don't get to back out that easily. If you are not going t eat it, I will stuff it down your throat." "Okay..okay..sheesh...I'll eat. How bad can it be..." Rolling ${i_his} eyes, ${i_he} scoops up a full serving and stops the spoon halfway to ${i_his} mouth, "If I die....." You scoff, "I am still alive aren't I? EAT IT." "Yeah...but no offence..you look like the living dead." "${i}....if you don't eat it....I will make sure that you join my ranks as well..." Taking a deep breath and giving you a dramatic salute, "It was an honor, Lt. ${name}. But alas, my time has come....." "Yes..yes..now EAT IT" Wincing, ${i} stuffs the spoon in ${i_his} mouth and ${i_his} eyes widen in horror as ${i_he} coughs. You immediately pat ${i_his} back and offer ${i_him} a sip of the juice. Wiping ${i_his} watering eyes with ${i_his} sleeve, ${i_he} mumbles, "What the hell is that? Does ${e} want you dead of poisoning? That tastes horrible....I thought it was bland and tasteless...but..." Sighing, you mutter, "Welcome to my world. You had better buckle up, we still have to finish it" "YOU have to finish it." "YOU are going to help me." ${i} glares at you, "Fine...I guess suffering together is easier than suffering alone." "You said it." *set Polite %+10 *set Friendly %+10 *set irrl %+5 *set if +1 # Your eyes widen as ${i_he} brings the spoon to your lips. Scrunching your face, you mutter, "I don't want to...." ${i} grins, "Open your mouth..." Blushing, you open your mouth as ${i} gently sticks the spoon into your mouth. A smile tugs at the corner of ${i_his} mouth as ${i_his} gaze narrows in on the curve of your lips around the spoon. Suddenly the glop doesn't tastes all that bad as you swallow. $!{i_his} eyes still focused on your lips, ${i_he} pulls back and looks at you with a raised brow, "Such a messy eater...." Leaning forward ${i_he} brushes ${i_his} thumb against your lips. Gently pressing before letting go, ${i_he} twirls the spoon before licking it clean and rises, "It tastes good." You frown, "But you didn't have a single bite...." "I wasn't talking about the horse glop...." Sparks of heat coast down your body as ${i_he} leans forward and whispers in your ear, "Begs the question....if the spoon tasted that good, what would the real deal taste like...." *set irrl %+5 *set ir +1 *set Shy %+10 # You bite your lip "Tell you what...." Plucking the spoon from ${i_his} hands, you scoop up a spoonful of glop and hold it to ${i_his} mouth. "You do the honours...." ${i} raises a brow and wraps ${i_his} fingers around your wrist, "If you insist...." Pulling your wrist forward, ${i_he} engulfs the tip of the spoon and your eyes narrow in on the sensuous curve of ${i_his} lips around the spoon. Pulling back, you watch ${i_him} as ${i_his} face changes colour from the warm beige to a slightly greener shade as ${i_he} gags. You laugh and pass ${i_him} the bottle of juice, "Told you....." ${i} groans, "Wow...what is ${e} feeding you? This should be declared toxic to humans. Hell, I wouldn't recommend it to divryns either." You notice a little crumb stuck to the corner of ${i_his} lips. Grinning, you lean forward and brush ${i_his} bottom lip with your thumb. "You have a little something....." $!{i_his} eyes follow your hands as you slowly tug the corner of ${i_his} lip. Without any warning, ${i_he} lunges forward to bite your thumb. You swiftly pull your hand back and chuckle. ${i} snaps ${i_his} fingers and scowls playfully, "Damn...almost had you..." "No difference between you and a divryn.." "True...there are a lot of similarities...." You lean back and study ${i_his} mischievous face for any signs of what ${i_his} angle is. "Other than the fact that you are 10 times more ${i_handsome} than a divryn" "Wrong. I am 2000 times more ${i_handsome} than a divryn.....but the one thing divryns and myself share is...." "Pray tell..." "We would like a bite of you....." You lean in and whisper, "Only a bite?" Mirroring your movements, ${i} leans in just a few inches from your nose and whispers, "Yes....what if you taste bitter? Kill my taste buds? Can't ruin my tongue, it's one of my favourite parts." You frown and shove ${i_him} as ${i_he} chuckles. *set Shy %-10 *set irrl %+5 *set ir +1 # You sigh and give ${i_him} a look. Plucking the spoon from ${i_his} hands, you scoop up the bland oatmeal and stuff it into your mouth. ${i} looks at you with a smile, "Swallow it." You swallow and the mushy mixture trails down your throat making you gag. Laughing, ${i} rubs ${i_his} hands together, "After witnessing the various faces you made in these past two minutes, I might be having some second thoughts about this...." You scowl and throw ${i_him} a glare that screams murder. "Okay..okay..sheesh...I'll eat. How bad can it be..." Rolling ${i_his} eyes, ${i_he} scoops up a full serving and stops the spoon halfway to ${i_his} mouth, "If I die....." "EAT IT." "Yeah...but no offence..you look like the living dead." Pin drop silence. Taking a deep breath and giving you a dramatic salute, "It was an honour, Lt. ${name}. But alas, my time has come....." "EAT IT" Wincing, ${i} stuffs the spoon in ${i_his} mouth and ${i_his} eyes widen in horror as ${i_he} coughs. You immediately pat ${i_his} back and offer ${i_him} a sip of the juice. Wiping ${i_his} watering eyes with ${i_his} sleeve, ${i_he} mumbles, "What the hell is that? Does ${e} want you dead of poisoning? That tastes horrible....I thought it was bland and tasteless...but..." Sighing, you mutter, "Welcome to my world. You had better buckle up, we still have to finish it" "YOU have to finish it." "You are going to help me." ${i} glares at you, "Fine...I guess suffering together is easier than suffering alone." *set Polite %+10 *set Friendly %-10 *set irrl %+5 # "Hey! You have no idea how bad this tastes! I will cut you if you bring it anywhere near me!" ${i} grins and waves a spoonful of glop in front of your mouth, "Here comes the Cat C....open up...." You frown and open your mouth to bark a retort but end up with the spoon stuffed in your mouth. $!{i_he} chuckles and coos, "Awww...good ${boy}, who's a good ${boy}....you are!" Wincing, you swallow the glop and glare at ${i}, "You had better have your will filled out...." "Oh I did. Last summer....I think..." You grit your teeth and compose yourself, "Your turn...." "What?" "EAT IT" "Pshh...cry baby. Fine.." Wincing, ${i} stuffs the spoon in ${i_his} mouth and ${i_his} eyes widen in horror as ${i_he} coughs. Wiping ${i_his} watering eyes with ${i_his} sleeve, ${i_he} mumbles, "What the hell is that? Does ${e} want you dead of poisoning? That tastes horrible....I thought it was bland and tasteless...but..." Grunting, you mutter, "Welcome to my world. You had better buckle up, we still have to finish it" "YOU have to finish it." "YOU are going to help me." ${i} glares at you, "Fine...I guess suffering together is easier than suffering alone." "You said it." *set Polite %-10 *set Friendly %-10 *set Genuine %-10 Having ${i} help you finish the entire bowl is a boon and you both swallow each bite with identical winces and gags. It tastes like cold, tasteless, somewhat bitter and lumpy oatmeal. Which is exactly what it is. How on earth is this supposed to go easy on your digestive system? Soon you wrap up and wash down the tablets with a glass of milk. After memorizing the instructions to the commandant's office repeated over and over by ${i}, you set off for your morning debriefing. *page_break Three corridors and 2 flights of stairs later.... You finally manage to reach the commandant's door and approach the commandant's secretary who sits at the table opposite to his door. "Good morning, Lt. Dexer. You are right on time. Brigadier Delacroix is in. Just knock twice." You nod and mutter a thanks, before approaching the dark mahogany door. Even the damn door knob is intimidating. Taking a deep breath, you knock twice and hear a rough "Come in." You open the door and step in with a sharp salute, "1st Lt. ${name} Dexer reporting for debriefing, sir." Brig. Delacroix rises from his seat and returns your salute. "At ease, Lieutenant. Close the door and take a seat." Closing the door gently, you take a seat in one of the leather chairs facing the commandant's desk. Commandant Delacroix lights himself a cigar and offers you one, which you refuse due to your current health condition. Lightly puffing on his cigar, the commandant speaks with an apologetic undertone, "My apologies. I forgot about your health. If it bothers you, I'll put it out." After spending three years in the military, cigar smoke, cursing, fistfights and alcohol have lost their taboo effect on you. "It's alright, sir." "Great, let's get to it then. First off...I might as well clear the air. Your father is an old friend of mine. He saved my life during the war and I respect him a lot. I don't think he ever told you, but he was a Night Hunter." All the air escapes your lungs, as you process those words. Your father never really talked about the war let alone the Night Hunters. He hated the military because it cost him his leg and he could never fly again. It made him bitter but he never said anything negative about the military. He always joked that the military was an old lover who in a way did break his heart. It took away his passion. "By the look on your face, I can tell that you had no clue. Ever heard the story about Wing Commander Allias Dexer and the big bad 13?" "No sir...." Taking a deep puff, the commandant frowns before a small smile tugs at his features. *page_break "It was raining hell...." [i]An entire pack of 62 Cat Cs was wreaking havoc on the field. It was supposed to be a reconnaissance mission. My squadron with me as 2IC was forced to go toe to toe with all 62 of those rat faced bastards. Our archers were dead, the sun had set and the visibility thanks to the pouring rain was zero. We had managed to thin their numbers to 45, but after that our blades broke and our shields cracked. Out of 105, only 5 of us were left alive. We had 3 men injured and the only two left in fighting shape were me and a 18 year old Private. It was a fucking 2 degrees and our emergency rations were spoilt with toxic mud. [/i] [i]The sergeant and myself had to build ourselves a fortress of sorts using all the bodies littering the field. Blood and wet mud were our beds for the night. The smell was a boon and a curse at the same time. It shielded the odour of our fear and kept us hidden from the winged demons, but the smell was killing our lungs at the same time. The problem with our position was that the field had become an excellent feasting ground and it was sheer luck that it didn't attract Cat Ds or Cat Bs. [/i] [i]We had sent 15 flairs asking for backup, help and then rescue. Through flair communication, we managed to send the message about our condition. I don't blame them for what they did. Our technology and weapons weren't as competent as they are now and....why risk another 105 for a measly handful of men? Out of the three injured only 1 lived through the first night. The Military had abandoned us, we were declared KIA and forgotten. Three fucking days we spent in that hell hole, surviving on the spoilt cracker bars. On the second night, the count was down by one and it was just me and Corporal Do-hyun. [/i] [i]By the third dusk, both our food and hope were finished. Hyui and I decided that it was pointless, nobody cares and nobody's coming for us. We still had two flares left and decided, better death by our hands than being eaten by those fuckers. As the sun set on the third day, so did our will to live. I still remember it......[/i] [i]I was marking the cartridge and setting the mechanism of the pistol, when I heard it. The shrill shrieks of a pig. My father was a farmer and I grew up with the different livestock, pigs included. I though I was hallucinating and shrugged it off, before loading the barrel. Do-hyun held up his barrel and pointed it to my head and I pointed mine to his head. We began the count down and were at 2 when all the Cat Cs on the field starting screeching and took to the skies. Every single one of those bastards, flew off. I shifted the bodies a little to check our perimeter, but couldn't see anything because of the darkness. [/i] *page_break The silence was jarring... [i]After listening to the cawing, screeching, squashing and ripping of human flesh, the silence was scary and disconcerting. Taking our chances, I shot my flare and what I saw still haunts me. The sky was absolutely deserted, no stars, no rain, no moon...nothing. There was no trace of the Cat Cs. Even the field was deserted with only a few slabs of flesh lying around. All of a sudden, in the distant horizon, the sky lit up like a chemical fire and there was a huge blast that shook the ground. [/i] [i]Do-hyun broke my concentration with a ear splitting scream and grabbed my arm. The poor boy was trembling like a leaf and when my eyes fell on what had scared him, I nearly had a heart attack myself. A tall silhouette was standing a few meters away from us with some kind of stick in its hand.[/i] [i]The figure waved its arms and lit the stick, revealing a human face. Too stunned to move or talk, Do and I just stared at him. He waved the torch and approached us with slow careful steps. [/i] [i]"Take it easy..boys....I am Allias...Allias Dexer.....I am here to take you home..."[/i] [i]We stood still as he held out his hand. I stared at his hand awhile before I took it and with all my strength mumbled, "Captain Nathan Delacroix...."[/i] [i]He smiled at us, "Well its time to take you boys home. Come on....my aero's a few clicks from here."[/i] [i]We followed him without any arguments or questions. I don't remember the flight back home. But once we reached the air base, Do-hyun and I kissed the ground and cried like babies. After a recovery leave of 15 days, I looked for him to thank him personally. I got the full background story from one of the nursing officers at the MH. The Commandant of my unit was furious, she gave 23 pleas and requests to send out a rescue team but they were all denied. There were 13 Commanding Generals, who sanctioned the order that there would be no attempts or excursions for our rescue. [/i] [i]Brig. Sam Harlow had a real mean streak, she was never one to back down from doing what is right. She roped in Allias and he managed to convince 2 Artillery Officers and 3 Engineers to join in and plan our rescue. They risked their carriers and their lives for 5 guys that they had never even heard of. The plan was brilliant, at 1000 meters from our position, several chemical mines and grenade trip wires were laid down. The engineers made an entire web of potent chemical explosives that would explode even in the presence of moisture. The artillery officers pitched in and good old Allias flew them back and forth.[/i] [i]All they needed to do was lure the pack with bait. Since Cat Cs only chase the creatures whose fear they can smell, Allias and the engineers managed to hang a pig from the aero. The poor thing was squealing in fear and made excellent bait. So that night, I really did hear a pig. Needless to say the plan worked and we were rescued. But questions were raised and your father took all the blame on himself.[/i] [i]A court martial was arranged and the trial lasted for 5 days. For five days, The stupid good for nothing nobles wearing rank patches spewed the most irrational shit I have ever heard. That's where the name comes from, Wing Commander Allias Dexer and the big bad 13. Troops were beginning to rebel and the discontent and the anger was clear. On the fifth day, the then newly made General Ashyver came to the rescue and recruited all 8 of us, Me, Do-hyui, Allias, the engineers and Arti officers as Night Hunters. [/i] *page_break "Brings back memories...." Brig. Nathan rubs out his cigar in a silver ashtray and taps his fingers against the table. "That was only the beginning. Allias, me and Hyun became a team from then on. We rescued a lot of other soldiers who were in a situation similar to ours." He then stares at you intensely, "My faith and trust were erased and I hated the military after that. The only reason I stayed back and continue to serve is because of Allias. I took a vow that I will follow him to the grave and beyond. But when he left the Aviation Force, he had me promise that I would fulfil my life commission. That I wouldn't retire, that I would lead the next generation of soldiers to victory." His piercing green eyes soften and he speaks almost gently, "You might not share his blood, but I see him in you. Under all your layers, you and him share the same spirit and courage. Allias wasn't brave in the face of fear....he was fearless...just like you. You managed to slay a 13 foot Cat D during your first encounter. Not only that, but in a way....you inspired your troops. You gave them hope and strength in a time when most of the newbies we train, freeze like a block of ice." He points a finger at your head, "Remember, that no matter what blood flows through your veins....you will always be a Dexer. Make your old man proud and don't you dare let me down. I expect far too much from you than I do from my own children." The raw emotion rattles you and your constricts as you remember your father. He did all this and he never bothered telling you. You wish that you could have heard this story from him. Swallowing your emotions and taking a stuttering breath, you mutter, "Yes, sir" "Report to your CO. Dismissed." "Yes, sir." You click your heels together with a sharp salute and rush out the door. *page_break "1...2...3...4.." You rush for the nearest restroom as your dam of emotions threatens to crack. Turning a corner and striding in, you walk to the nearest sink and splash your face with water. [i]5..6..7..[/i] [i]Just put it away...[/i] [i]8..9..10...[/i] [i]No use....[/i] [i]11...12..13..[/i] [i]He is never coming back.....[/i] You rub your weary face with the back of your sleeve and step out when you hear voices outside. Centring yourself and burying your pain, you set off towards the Captain's office. A dose of the ice${a_king} is just what you need to ground you again. Trudging up the stairs once again, with your heart feeling heavy, you school your face into a neutral expression and knock on the captain's door. "Come in", says a harsh voice. Twisting the knob, you step in and close the door behind you. ${a} looks up at you from behind ${a_his} desk, "Met the Commandant." Its more a statement than a question but you answer anyway, "Yes, ${a_sir}." "He has a lot of confidence in you. That's a rare thing." $!{a_he} rises from ${a_his} seat and strides towards you. "I don't believe it. To me you are nothing more than a fleck of dust....and I absolutely despise dirt and filth. I like to keep my space clean and neat, with not a thing out of place or even a speck of dust loitering around. Since you have plenty of time on your hands now....you are in charge of dusting, cleaning and maintaining my office. Impress me and I might just give you a chance to prove yourself worthy." Your eyes widen and you frown, "But I am not...." ${a} casts a icy glare your way, "You are what I say you are. Now pay close attention, I will not repeat these instructions." *fake_choice # Burying your self esteem, you listen with trail blazing focus. ${a} raises a brow and closes in on you in an attempt to intimidate you. It's going to take a lot more than that to throw you off. $!{a_he} leans in a few inches from your face, "Repeat my instructions...." Face set in determination, you repeat ${a_his} instructions word to word. $!{a_he} steps back, eyes warming a bit, "Hmmm...There's hope for you....Perhaps you aren't a lost cause after all..." "Thank you ${a_sir}." "You are all said and done, a member of my team now...so you may address me as ${a}." Your eyes go wide, before you school your face into a neutral expression, "Yes..${a_sir}." "Try not to wreck my office, while I am gone." "Yes, ${a_sir}." *set Polite %+10 *set Friendly %+10 *set as %+5 *set af +1 # You feel yourself drifting off as you lose yourself in those crystal blue eyes. $!{a_his} eyes remind you of those ice vein crystals that the fortune tellers and gypsies sell as lucky charms. Your brain goes a little fuzzy as your eyes trail over ${a_his} ${a_handsome} face. Why must ${a_he} be so gorgeous.....couldn't ${a_he} have at least one blemish on that perfect face? Such sharp features....they contrast so much with those soft plush lips. Without realizing what you are doing, you grasp your bottom lip between your teeth and ${a} stops talking, ${a_his} eyes focused on the motion. Putting two and two together within a second, ${a} raises a brow and looks at you with a smug expression. "Repeat" "Hmmmm..." $!{a_he} closes the distance between you, practically caging you against the wall as ${a_he} mutters, "Repeat...my instructions..." The sharp predatory glint in ${a_his} eyes has a tiny butterflies fluttering in your stomach and your blood heats, dusting your cheeks a very guilty pink. Your throat goes dry as ${a_he} leans closer and whispers, "Get to work and don't break anything while I am gone." Air enters your lungs as ${a_he} pulls back and you mumble, "Yes, ${a_sir}." *set Shy %+10 *set as %+5 *set ar +1 # Your nasty little brain picks works like a charm and a sharp little smile breaks over your features as you bite your lip to keep from laughing. A frown distorts ${a_his} ${a_handsome} face as ${a_he} snarks, "What's the joke, Dexer?" You try to rein in the evil little grin but fail as it breaks across your face and ${a} raises a brow and glares at you suspiciously, "What imbecilic idea is that brain of yours plotting now?" You scoff and snarl, "Its not imbecilic!" $!{a_he} closes the distance between you in an attempt to intimidate you. Poor ${a_man} has no clue as to what you have up your sleeve. Leaning in, barely a few inches from your face, ${a_he} growls, "Let's hear it then...." The rough intonations of ${a_his} voice send shivers down your spine as you ready the cannon, "I was wondering......" $!{a_he} practically corners you against the wall as ${a_he} snarls, "Quit pulling on the strings of my patience, Lieutenant." Any normal sane human or even divryn, would be running for the hills right now. But you were never really known for your sanity, so you pull the blade. With a small grin tugging at the corner of your mouth, you drawl, "Do you like your ${men} clean or dirty?" It takes a moment for the innuendo to register in ${a_his} head, but when it does, ${a_his} brows nearly fly off ${a_his} head and ${a_his} ears go pink as a smile threatens to distort ${a_his} features. $!{a_he} pinches the bridge of ${a_his} nose and mutters, "Lord...what am I going to do with you..." You laugh manically on the inside as you bite your lip and coo, "Oh...some very bad things....I hope..." This time ${a_he} turns ${a_his} back to you to hide ${a_his} reaction, but you can see ${a_his} ears redden even more. "No such luck. Now get to work and don't break anything while I am gone." "Yes, ${a_sir}." *set Shy %-10 *set as %+5 *set ar +1 # With a blank stare, you mentally catalogue the captain's instructions. ${a} raises a brow and closes in on you in an attempt to intimidate you. It's going to take a lot more than that to throw you off. $!{a_he} leans in a few inches from your face, "Repeat my instructions...." Face set in determination, you repeat ${a_his} instructions word to word. $!{a_he} steps back, eyes warming a bit, "Hmmm...There's hope for you....Perhaps you aren't a lost cause after all..." "Thank you ${a_sir}." "You are all said and done, a member of my team now...so you may address me as ${a}." You school your face into a neutral expression, "Yes..${a_sir}." "Try not to wreck my office, while I am gone." "Yes, ${a_sir}." *set Polite %+10 *set Friendly %-10 *set as %+5 # You glare at ${a_him} with the fire of a thousand suns. ${a} raises a brow and closes in on you in an attempt to intimidate you. It's going to take a lot more than that to throw you off. $!{a_he} leans in a few inches from your face, "Repeat my instructions...." Face set in a bored scowl, you repeat ${a_his} instructions word to word. $!{a_he} steps back, eyes warming a bit, "Cut down on that attitude..and...There's hope for you....Perhaps you aren't a lost cause after all..." You roll your eyes, "Thank you ${a_sir}." "You are all said and done, a member of my team now...so you may address me as ${a}." Your eyes go wide, before you school your face into a neutral expression, "Yes..${a_sir}." "Try not to wreck my office, while I am gone." "No promises, ${a_sir}." *set Polite %-10 *set Friendly %-10 *set Genuine %-10 You watch as ${a} picks up a few files and is about to stride out the door, when you remember the letter, ${v} had asked you to deliver. "Wait..Captain...${v} asked me to deliver this to you." Pulling it out from your left breast pocket, you hold it out to ${a_him}. $!{a_he} looks at you with amusement twinkling in ${a_his} eyes, "It's just an envelope with a blank sheet of paper. The seal is still intact, meaning you didn't fiddle with it or read it. It was a test...and you passed." You frown in confusion, "But why test me?" ${a} traces the knob with ${a_his} palm and speaks in a hard tone, "The Night Hunters is under constant surveillance. It was a test to see if you could keep your head on and whether you could be trusted with confidential items." "But I know that...." "Good for you." With that ${a_he} slams the door in your face, leaving your head swirling with questions. What the hell have you gotten yourself into. Enemies of state...aren't the Night Hunters supposed to hunt outside threats....then why the paranoia? Moving to the bookcase, you trace your fingers along the spines. Another piece clicks into place, but somehow you fell like for every step forward, you move 10 steps back. Back into what, a plot of some sort. The pill tests...you are just an officer of the Vanguard....what makes you so important that they have put you in the ELITES. No..this thread is just going to jumble your facts and give you a headache. All you need to do is go with the flow and watch your back at all times. Brushing off your disruptive thoughts, you think about your mother and the twins. Since your arrival was so hush hush, you doubt that they would have given your family the news. But ${alistair} must have written on your behalf right? $!{al_he} didn't mention your family, the last time you both spoke. You haven't seen ${al_him} all day, which is unusual. Perhaps, you should catch up with ${al_him} at lunch. A chuckle bubbles through you, your mother is not going to be pleased about you joining the Night Hunters. The twins on the other hand will go crazy. Aiden and Caden always dreamt of joining the night hunters. They would be eligible for the academy as they are 15 now and the Dexer surname does bring its own privileges. *page_break 1 hour later... Finished with the Captain's office, you lock the door behind you and head for the mess hall. As you turn a corner, you nearly bump into Baldric. He startles upon seeing you and exclaims, "Good God! Lt. Dexer! Just the ${man}, I have been looking for!" You frown in worry, "Everything all right, Baldric?" "Fine, ${sir}. Its just that Sergeant Felix asked me to deliver this letter addressed to you." He pluck a neat white envelope from his pocket and hands it to you. Turning it around, you shred the bottom and open the folded piece of paper. [i]To Lt. ${name} Dexer.[/i] [i]I don't know how to write this kind of shit, so I am going to get straight to the point. [/i] [i]Me and Lt. Basri are going to Vashi to catch up with the rest of our morons.[/i] [i]Lt. Basri is too chicken to tell you about it, cause ${al_he} thinks it will piss you off. That you would wanna come too.[/i] [i]I agree. So by the time that bald cook guy gives you this letter, we will be long gone. [/i] [i]Hope you don't dream about any killer monsters.[/i] [i]Sarge.[/i] *page_break A small smile graces your features. Good to know that at least one person in your life will never change. You look up at Baldric, "When did he give you this?" "Last night, while you were asleep." "Thank you, Baldric. Dismissed." With a click of his heels Baldric saunters off, leaving you to seethe in the middle of the corridor. They did this on purpose! One of these days, you are really going to strangle the sarge. Folding the note, you tuck it into your breast pocket and are about to take a step forward when your vision blurs. A sharp dagger of pain pierces your skull and lean against the wall for support. It vanishes just as fast as it came. Not the first time, you have experienced sudden headaches like this. You know that it's just the beginning to a throbbing headache that's going to last for hours on end. Since you don't have any further obligations, you grab a soldier headed towards the stairs and order her to deliver a message to ${e}. Nodding her head, she rushes up the stairs as you trudge back to your quarters. Your head throbs with every step you take. By the time you reach your door, your body feels like mush as your vision goes blurry. With trembling hands, you manage to open your door and latch it behind you. Your body feels like its baking in an oven and you want to rip off your clothes. Too exhausted to undress or even pull off your boots, you collapse face first onto the mattress. *page_break And...it all goes dark. [i][b]Meanwhile, In Captain Maneryn's Office.....[/b][/i] ${a} rifts through the pages of the bulky register, ${tric} had left on ${a_his} desk. $!{a_he} rolls ${a_his} eyes at the various cuts and eraser dust covering the pages. Taking out a small brush from one of ${a_his} drawers, ${a_he} sweeps off the dust. As ${a_he} thumbs the brush at the bottom of the page, a certain name listed under penalty catches ${a_his} attention. Tilting the register closer, ${a_he} tries to make out the year that has been scrawled in unintelligible letters, when the door bursts open. Without flinching, ${a} continues trying to read the unintelligible script as ${e_he} addresses the intruder. "Would knocking kill you?" ${e} ignores the barb and growls, "Screw knocking! A Corporal Athena, came to me with a message from ${name}." That perks ${a}'s attention as ${a_he} leans back in ${a_his} chair, "Is ${he} in the second stage?" ${e} gnaws at ${e_his} lip in worry, "Yes. $!{he} has a headache it seems. I already sent two nursing officers to check on ${e_him}. They said ${he} was fine. The fever has come down a little, but ${he}'s fast asleep." "Good. Just one more stage to go and ${he}'ll be out of danger." ${e} slumps down in one of the sofa chairs and buries ${e_his} face in ${e_his} hands. "I don't like this. $!{he}'s still in a delicate condition. What if...." ${a} scoffs, "Oh please. ${name} was raised by Allias Dexer and has Rheyan Ashyver's blood flowing in ${his} veins. $!{he} may not look it, but ${he} has far more strength and intelligence than the average human." ${e} looks up and mutters, "Still doesn't mean..." ${a} glares at ${e_him}, "This is the only thing, I hate about you. You always get attached so fast." ${e} chuckles, "I know. Not all of us can be as heartless as you." "You can if you try." ${e} rises up and stares at the fireplace, "What do we do now?" ${a} follows ${e_his} gaze and glares at the embers, "We wait." "For?" "The time to pass...." *page_break And pass it does. [b][i]Focusing on the present....[/i][/b] The days roll by and each day brings with it a new ailment. When you woke up the next day, your stomach was cramping and you had emptied your stomach in the sink. Oddly, you had cold and hot flashes almost every third day for the first week. But as the second week rolled around, you got better and busier. Col. Shekhar and ${e} perform their various evaluations and treatments on you from morning to afternoon. After lunch, you have to work as a secretary for the CO and then during the evenings, it's physical therapy with ${pup}, ${v}, ${i} and ${c} hanging around to tease you with annoyingly accurate puns and innuendoes. Soon the base starts to feel like home and you fit in like a glove. The other soldiers know you and greet you on the way to PT or in in the hallways. You also learn new names and faces, Baldric becomes a strict grandmother who makes sure you take all your medicines and finish your meal. It was just like Danny said the day you arrived at the academy. Give it a few days and everything falls into place. As the days roll by, you find yourself spending more and more time with the team. You miss ${alistair} and some part of you wishes that you had gone with them. There is so much left unsaid between you and your squadron. Oddly, you find yourself missing them and thinking about them from time to time. Strange isn't it. All it took was one life threatening enemy to make soldiers out of you. In that moment, a bond was built. A bond of trust and camaraderie that would last till the day, you breathe for the last time. No matter what, they will always have your back and you know that you've got theirs. The elders say that time heals all wounds. Well they were right. Your bruises and stitches fade with every passing day. Your muscles don't smart any more and you even managed to beat ${v} and ${pup} in a race. Though you threw up after that and ${i} along with ${c}'s help carried you to the locker room. ${e}'s medicines and tonics ensure that your scars fade without leaving any trace of a previous injury. Col. Shekhar becomes a confidant, who listens with disturbing fascination when you talk to her about your episodes and nightmares. Letting lose and having someone who listens without doubting or judging you is refreshing. Major Allori sits in at the evaluations and takes you with ${t_him} for long walks around the riding trail during the evenings before physical therapy. $!{t_he} asks you to describe your childhood and all kinds of personal details from your life. It is a bit disconcerting and you tell ${t_him} a few things and skip out on the others, which touch too close to home. The investigation is still on going and ${t_he} feels that you are the key to solving it. Soon the day that you have been waiting for since the day you regained conciousness arrives. The last day of your horse food diet and it also happens to be the last day of the week, which means that you have the day off. To celebrate your independence, you sleep through the afternoon and spend your evening entertaining ${pup} in your room. ${e} and ${a} have handed you temporary guardianship of ${pup}, it feels more like ${pup} has been handed guardianship of you. She follows you everywhere and nearly gave you a heart attack when you were getting dressed the other day. The damn mutt snatched your underwear and made you chase her around the room draped in a towel. You give her one of your old belts to chew on and sneak out of the room with your clothes and toiletries satchel. Frankly right now, you stink of sweat and drool and are in desperate need of a bath. As you lock the door behind you to bar ${pup}'s escape, your thoughts drift to one person in particular. [i](This choice will be setting your RO for the rest of the book, so choose wisely.)[/i] *fake_choice # ${alistair} $!{al_he}'s been your best friend since forever. No matter what happens or what you do, ${al_he}'s always had your back and stuck by you, through thick and thin. You've come a long way from wrestling in the mud and stealing chalk to vandalize the walls of of your school yard. Well for one ${alistair} isn't a gangly little kid anymore and neither are you. $!{al_he}'s a grown ${al_man} now, a very ${al_handsome} ${al_man} to be precise. You don't know when it happened or how it happened, but somewhere along the line, ${al_he} became more than a friend. Sure, you always did flirt with ${al_him} from time to time and you did have moments where you thought that ${al_he} was going to make a move. But it was all part of friendship, you only had each other after all. Yeah, who are you kidding.....${alistair} had a line of admirers following ${al_him} everywhere. But...${al_he} always rejected them, even though you encouraged ${al_him} to go with them. Did ${al_he} refuse them because ${al_he} had something for you? Or are you over thinking it? Maybe...you could ask ${al_him} about it when ${al_he} comes back. $!{al_he} did say that ${al_he} wanted to take you out to grab a bite. *set RO "alistair" # ${a} The cold and harsh ways of your CO seem to be having the opposite effect on you. As the days pass, you actually find yourself excited to meet ${a_him}. $!{a_he} despises company and prefers to be locked away in that office of ${a_his}, but you have caught ${a_him} observing you from the corner of your eyes from time to time. $!{a_his} voice has softened its edge when ${a_he} talks to you and ${a_he} doesn't throw you out of ${a_his} office anymore. The reddening of ${a_his} ears and the very slight colouring of ${a_his} pale cheeks, tells you that ${a_he} doesn't completely disapprove of you. That face makes for a very entertaining view as you sit in that dark and cosy office. You often wonder how soft that skin is and how it would feel to run your fingers through the silky silver locks. The ${a_man}'s arrogance and sharp edge only makes ${a_him} more irresistible. *set RO "a" # ${e} The intelligent and kind ${e_man} always lifts your spirits when you feel down. ${e} is the real life version of everybody's dream ${e_man}. $!{e_he}'s gorgeous, kind, funny, intelligent, understanding and a doctor as well. Who can resist that combination? Besides ${e_he} has really skilled hands, you know first hand thanks to all the relaxing stretching and massages. $!{e_he} always speaks ${e_his} mind, though ${e_he} does soften the blow and remains calm at times when you feel your temper slipping. Easy to talk to, ${e_he} may look innocent but ${e_he}'s very much aware of the effect ${e_his} looks and charm have on people. With ${e} its all about the small details, ${e_he} pays attention to the points you like and dislike. You often catch ${e_him} checking you out and returns all your flirty responses with an answer that has your blood simmering with heat. You exchange teasing comments or silent laughter when Col. Sheiks is busy chewing out some poor soul, who messed up your test records. *set RO "e" # ${v} An Exemplary hothead and Brilliant Archer with a needle point aim, gifted with a hair trigger temper. Scathing hot in both looks and temperament, you can't decide if you are scared or turned on by ${v_him}. It almost seems like ${v_he} does know what to make of you when you flirt or smile at ${v_him}. The ${v_man} reminds you of the human version of a firebrand, a mystical predator that is made of fire and is a protector of the ancient faith. Though these days, ${v_he} is quick at responding to your flirty comments or shy smiles. Pushing ${v_his} temper seems to be one of your favourite ways of baiting ${v_him}. Oddly enough, ${v_he} smiles and actually talks to you, instead of snapping at you. Then ${v_he} returns to character and barks orders. $!{v_he} gets very physical with you in particular and grabs your wrist, collar, arm or whatever ${v_he} can grab in record time and drag you along comfortably. $!{v_his} face goes adorably pink, when ${v_he} stands close to you or you smile at ${v_him}. One of your favourite pastimes these days is to count the number of freckles visible on ${v_his} face and neck. Even though ${v_he} is brutal and cruel at times, ${v_he} can be surprisingly considerate and gentle when ${v_he} wants to be. *set RO "v" # ${i} A sarcastic, proud genius with a dark sense of humour, ${i} is very entertaining to be around. Though, sometimes you can't tell what calculations is that sharp brain making about you behind those steely grey eyes. ${i} has a nasty habit of always throwing off your concentration and bugging you till the time, all your focus is on ${i_him}. Amusing jabs and a dry sense of humour that always puts a smile on your face, especially when you feel down. Pitching in to make your recovery a little easier and distracting you from your depressing thoughts are just one of the many things ${i} does for you. Though every time you talk about ${i_him}, ${i_he} diverts and teases you with subtly veiled comments. One of the many things that you have noticed about ${i} is that ${i_he} frequently grabs your hand or wrist as an excuse to touch you. During briefings, you share secret smiles and exchange words through a glances. *set RO "i" # ${c} ${c} has the habit of distracting you during lunch or on the field with outrageously amusing comments or flirty pick up lines. The fact that ${c_he} is drop dead gorgeous, only adds to ${c_his} flykid personality. It annoys you that ${c_he} knows that ${c_he}'s ${c_handsome} and that you are attracted to ${c_him}. But there are other times, when ${c_he} isn't busy trying to get into your pants, ${c_he}'s intelligent and hilarious but tends to hide it behind a layer of confidence and charm. $!{c_his} witty remarks and mischievous nature tend to get ${c_him} in trouble. However, you have seen ${c} pilot an aero and Flight Officer Miles is a completely different version of ${c_him}. Calm, collected and razor focused without an ounce of doubt or fear. There's so many layers and different sides to the same person. *set RO "c" # ${tric} $!{t_he}'s a mystery to you. You honestly can't tell whether ${t_he} likes you or hates you. Sometimes when your back is to ${t_him} or if you are standing in a crowd or some corner, you can feel ${t_his} gaze on you. Your skin gets warm and you feel a lot like prey around ${t_him}. You aren't sure if that is a good thing. When you go looking for ${t_him}, you won't find ${t_him}. Then you will turn a corner and find ${t_him} there, looking at you with an expression that you still can't interpret. $!{t_he} has this weird habit of staring at your face when you talk or smile, ${t_he} never interrupts you when you talk and never gives you a straight answer. $!{t_his} eyes glow like hot coals when you flirt or blush around ${t_him}. $!{t_he}'s hot one minute and cold the next, ${t_he}'ll corner you against the wall one minute and be completely indifferent the next. You can't seem to make head or tails of ${t_his} abrupt behaviour, but what you can tell is that ${t_he} is fascinated by you, like one might be of a toy or some new little gadget. One thing is clear, Major Allori is dangerous. But since when are you afraid of taking a risk. *set RO "tric" *if (gender="male") Your bubble of thoughts is popped by a few passing junior officers. They greet you and you wave back before disappearing through the door to the Men's bathing chamber. *if (gender="female") Your bubble of thoughts is popped by a few passing junior officers. They greet you and you wave back before disappearing through the door to the Ladies bathing chamber. *if (gender="non-binary") Your bubble of thoughts is popped by a few passing junior officers. They greet you and you wave back before disappearing through the door to the Third Gender bathing chamber. You spend the next 45 minutes just soaking in the hot water. In a long time, for once, you aren't soaking to soothe your muscles. The bathing chambers are completely empty and you savour the silence. You don't get any alone or me time when you are in the military. Any privacy you have in your room is snatched by ${pup} who loves chewing your socks, shoes, ${top}, ${bottom} and your toes as of late. She refuses to sleep in the dog bed and sleeps on your stomach or feet depending on her mood. Its adorable but the problem is that summer is arriving and ${pup} is a very big dog. She's shedding hair all over the place and it gets far too warm for comfort. You love her, you do.....but sometimes she drives you nuts. Now you know how your mother must have felt about you, when you were younger. Cute as a button but a real handful at the same time. She is also a master at emotional manipulation, its disturbing. For some reason, she reminds you of the twins. They are practically soul mates. You vow to apologize to your mother for all the trouble and heartburn you gave her as a child. Sighing, you wrap a towel around your assets and walk out to the locker rooms. Throwing on the simple red shirt and black slacks, you walk back to your room. As you climb up the stairs, you come face to face with ${pup} sitting at the top of the stairs. Frowning in confusion, you rush up. i]Its a Sunday, so everybody's out and the hallway is deserted...[/i] [i]Then why is ${pup} out of the room? [/i] [i]You remember locking the door and your key is still clutched in your hand.....[/i] [i]Only ${e} has a spare set of your keys and ${e_he}'s at the MH....[/i] Your eyes widen in horror as it hits you. *page_break Somebody just broke into your room... *ending