PKA: Fresh Term (Open to plot members)

[Anatra]

The Peacekeeper Academy **************************** The Peacekeeper Academy has opened for this term of cadets. Those who had applied were accepted, and their initial scores have been noted down for future declaration. Until then, the cadets are free to roam the Academy whilst preparations for the next weeks are made. This includes the gym, pool, dry bar, sparring arena and lounge. Their bedrooms are also accessible, as they are to be sharing with at least one other cadet, up to a total of four in some rooms. Cadets, you are reminded to be on your utmost exceptional behavior. There will be no discrepancies that I shall hear of, or the consequences shall be severe. I expect tidiness, promptness, punctuality and absolute loyalty. Defiance of any kind will result in an abolished record of Peacekeeping. In other words - your chances of greatness here will be destroyed. Signed,

Morning. I'm awake with the punctuality that was expected of me. Not by Lieutenant Commander P. Lawson, but by my father who wants nothing more than the highest grading in the Peacekeeper Academy. He truly believes that with my skills and his heritage as a past promising Peacekeeper, I can become one of exceptional standard. Maybe he's right. We'll soon find out. I look to the uniform that is laid upon my bed. Quickly, it comes to mind how this will be the last time I shall sleep in this bed for a few weeks. I can still come home during the weekends, but my father has told me not to in case I get side tracked. I don't blame him, it is a possibility. Besides, if I'm bunked with Alex, my brother, then I'll have nothing to worry about in terms of loneliness.

I look at myself in the mirror. This uniform is much too formal for my liking. Black school-like trousers with a short sleeved shirt and dark blue tie. The shirt has a blue trim on each sleeve, and the peacekeeper badge on the sleeve below the seam to the shoulder. On the back, it says 'ORCA'. I turn round and see it, and I smile. I'm nervous about my first day in the academy. I fear for what those in the Academy will think of me, this ex-career and son of a past commander. It should have no baring on my success, but everybody knows that nepotism happens everywhere you turn.

I venture on downstairs to the smell of fresh toast made by my mother. "Butter?" She says to me with the usual politeness. "Yeah, go on then." I say to her casually. She hasn't turned around to see me in my uniform yet. Across the room there's my dad, he sees me in the corner of his eye but has to take a double glance before realizing it's me. "Tyren." He says. Mum turns around and gasps at me. Is it on wrong? She's glaring at me, but I can see a sparkle in her eyes. "What?" I say to both of them. "You look just like your father did when I first met him." I raise a brow, not sure whether to be flatted or not. "You look ready, cadet." He says, half mocking and half not. I only just noticed that he's glancing up from his newspaper.

Alex comes in behind me from the stairs too. He's dressed in the same get-up with the exact same back writing. 'ORCA'. "Thank god you're not identical twins." Mum says. We laugh as she hands us a plate of two bits of toast each. "Cheers." I say. "Yeah, cheers" Alex copies but with a mouth-full. We sit at the table opposite each other. Mum and dad are on the couch, probably preparing for the likely tearful departure. I don't understand that sadness. Suddenly I hear something on the floor behind my chair, a scraping. I look a little startled until I look round, realizing it is my three year old brother, Tyler. "Oi you, gave me a heart attack." He looks up at me sadly. "Hey, I was only joking." I hold out my arms to pick him up. He puts himself into them and I hold him. He puts his hands around my shoulders in a hug that is surprisingly tight. "Woah, what's up?" I ask him, but I know. He's going to miss me and Alex.

"Aw, Tyren put him down he's been milking it all morning." Mum tells me, but I don't because I'm not stupid, I can see he's clearly upset. If he was looking for attention he'd be loud. "Don't go..." He says childishly, as a three year old would. "Gotta, but I'll be back soon. I'll come and see ya." I reassure him. "Don't you worry your little self." I hear him sigh a little so I put him down again. Quickly enough, I'm done with my toast. Nerves are putting me off it a little.

"Right mum, dad." Alex begins. "Time to go, don't want to be late." He goes to hug them quickly. Dad doesn't hug, he never has - even when I was in hospital gripping for life he did hug or say he loved me. It's not bothering because I know that's what he's like. It worries me to think that being a Peacekeeper might null of my emotions and make me a Capitol Husk. I'll avoid it if I can though. It can't be that hard. He shakes Alex's hand. "Have fun, son." He then shakes mine after I say goodbye to mum. "You too, mate." Mate, that's what I mean.

We're out the door and walking in the decreasingly winter-like District Two. The Peacekeeper Academy is on the outskirts, but we'll have to walk. It's not far, just up one straight road and then a twist and a turn and you're there.

We go the way we were supposed to, making conversation around our expectations. "I wonder if 'P. Lawson' is as scary as dad says." Alex ponders. "Well, I'm sure he is, if dad says it. That man is fearless." It's true though. Dad is always the one to do the dangerous stuff. He's the one who collects the firewood in the deeper winters from the busy markets, which can get quite busy and scary. I would do it, and could do it, but he says it's too dangerous. "Well, here it is." Alex declares. Peacekeeper Academy.

We look forward and we see a huge gate surrounding what looks like a prison.

We're cleared to go through the gates simply by the uniform we're wearing. I look over at Alex and he's putting on glasses. "What on earth...?" I look at him whilst we walk to the gloomy building. "Need them for reading." I take a double glance. "Reading? You never read." He doesn't. I mean, neither do I, but he just doesn't. "Well, that's because I needed these." Fine, you win.

We enter the doors and inside is standing the man himself. Lieutenant Commander Paul Lawson. His military-shaved head and stubble makes his jaw stand right out. His head is large and his outfit is formally militaristic. Military decorations litter his suit. We're not late, we're the first there. We're early. Nerdy-Alex, and Scarred-Tyren.

"Glasses and Scars." Says a woman from behind us, closing the door to stop the cold getting in. "What?" I say to her. She glares at me when I look round to see her in an equally formal get-up. "That's Captain, to you Cadet." I'm completely foreign in this place. The small eyes of Lawson are baring down at me and Alex, who aren't saluting or any of that stuff. We don't know when to, how to, or anything. I see 'Cpt. Lussa' on her name tag before I avert my gaze back upon Lawson. "Cadets, welcome." He finally says. "To the right is your dorms, to the left is everything you need to prepare yourself for your courses. Your introductory tutorial will be held in the conference room in two days. Don't be late, or you won't pass. Simple." He's going easy on us, I can tell. Punctual means on time. Not early nor late. We're probably fifteen minutes early. That makes us off time.

"Yes, sir." Alex says, which gains a mocking smirk from Lawson, and a little bit of a laugh from Lussa. I roll my eyes at the formalities and just go straight left, Alex following me after a moment's thought.

We go to our dorms, and we see we're sharing with somebody, but we don't know who it is.

W O R D. C O U N T : 1306

N O T E S :

[Jack Lexington]

MATTHEW DUNHAM

Since I quit the career training program at the center my life has been feeling ....empty. For years I've devoted every free minute to training. All my friends are there and it's the only thing besides engineering I'm good at. Yes, engineering. Most people wouldn't think so because I'm not a verbally smart guy. I can't express myself in ways other people with brains do but I'm actually quite bright. It's hard to understand that I cannot get along with others. I guess the social gene wasn't really included into my gene pool.

The pregames took a huge toll on me. Now that most of the physical injuries have healed only the mental ones remain. But I've come to terms with most of those as well, which resulted in me quitting the program. The moment when I thought I'd killed Tyren was so crucial to me that I needed to make this decision. No more hacking into good people for no apparent reason.

Something good came out of it as well though. It created a bond between us....maybe not the fight itself but the time afterwards in the hospital when we shared some very private thoughts on life. He was even there after my final fight helping me and from there on out we've been friends I'd say.

Now I need a new devotion, something to fill that emptiness I feel, that's probably partly due to a lack of Kyanite as well.
All my attempts to get back into shape couldn't help me and when my internship with my fathers company ended and he asked whether I want to start a real job with him I decline.
"No, dad. I need to do something different for a while."
I wasn't quite sure what that would be until Tyren told me his PK training was going to start soon.
I admit it was a spur of the moment thing but at the last possible day I handed in my application as well. Not because I was so keen to protect Panem but because it sounded like an adventure I could join my friend on.
My father wasn't thrilled I'd give up engineering for a possible career as peace keeper but he let me do it nonetheless.
"Go find yourself, son, and then come back here. I'll always have a job here for you."
"Thank you." I nod at him grateful that he doesn't cause a fuzz. I know it's ging to be lonely for him now at home.

Today I walk down the front steps of my house with a big duffel bag slung over my shoulder.
Jeans are hanging loosely from my hips, that I might not even need a belt to hold up anymore because the lack of training has made me a little fat.

IT's so early in the morning that the mail man is just starting his delivery.
"Morning, Sam." I greet him in an unusual adventurous mood.
"Where are you going with that bag?" He wonders while he stuffs some letters in a box.
"PK academy."
He stopps and looks at me bewildered. "PK? You?"
"That's right." I confirm but ads I make my way down the street still sporting a hobble it dawns on me that this might be the silliest idea I've had in ages. I'm not PK material. I'm disobedient, rude, I hate rules and the only thing I'm good at is throwing punches and drawing circuit plans.
"I'll try." I mutter to myself.

50 minutes later I finally cross through the big gates of the prison like compound handing the guard my acceptance letter.
"Welcomer to the academy. Go to the main building on the left."
I nod and make my way over there.
The stone buidling is massive with large doors and high ceilings. Inside a few other young guys are looking around to see where they need to go while I stare at a sculpture of our president in awe. It's huge!
A woman in uniform greets us. "Cadets!" Only now do I notice that some of the others are already dressed in navy slacks and weird short sleeve button up shirts with their names on it.
She approaches me.
"You still need to pick up your uniform over in building C. What's your name?"
For a moment I study her stern looking , yet young pretty face but then reply. "Matthew Dunham."
"That"s Matthew Dunham, Captain." She corrects me and then stares back at me as if I was her new prey.
"Repeat it!"
"Matthew Dunham, Captain." It's the first order that I got and even now I feel a certain disgust to follow it, which must show in my face.
She looks at the letter in my hand and then states. "Your room is on the first floor. Look here." Her non manicured finger draws a line around the small print on the paper.
"Get a move on, Cadet Dunham."
"Yes, mam." I give her a smirk, that might be not appropriate but when she talks to me like that I get all sorts of thoughts.

Soon I stand in line to receive my uniform. I tell the man my size but it's unnecessary because it's been premanifactured with my name printed on the back.
I accept it and then make my way back to the main building because at least I don't need to get a 'proper' haircut because my hair is still very short after having it buzzed off at the hospital.

The greatest surprise awaits me when I step into my assigned room, which holds two bunk beds and two desks.
In there I spot the familiar shape of Tyren and immediately recognise the other guy as Alex.
From behind I tackle him cheerfully yelling. "Hey man, guess who's here?" I didn't tell him about my plans to follow my lead nor anybody else for that matter so he must be surprised.
I drop the uniform and my bag on the floor and shake Alex' hand as well.
"Good to see you."
Then I wait with a huge shit eating rgin on my face for his reaction.

[Anatra]

The more the morning wakes, the busier the courtyard outside gets. More cadets, older ones that are perhaps here longer term. Peacekeepers, more than countable. It's strange seeing them out of their official uniform and actually in either the cadet outfit or their own. I look out of the window of my dorm whilst Alex acquaints himself with the room. "No lock on the toilet." He announces. "No lock on the front door. What is this?" I smirk at him. "A prison." I add, though, for lack of better reassurance. "We'll get used to it." He nods and start to unpack his bag on his bed. Since we don't know who the other cadet is that will be bunking with us, we've decided to stick to one of the two bunks. I'm on the bottom and he's on the top. There's no ruling to that, it just so happens that we don't actually mind which of the two we get.

I look on the desk. On each of the two there is a sheet of paper listing what we need to ensure we adhere to.

- Correct uniform at all daylight hours
- Punctuality to all events
- Mandate to help at every corner
- Proper etiquette to higher ranks
- Lights out at midnight

To me, that's surprisingly lenient. They must have a lot of rule breakers though. It fails to mention anything about alcohol or drugs. And doesn't mention anything about making too much noise. Again, to me that's lenient. Or maybe it's a device in place to root out the idiots - if they do the stupid stuff not listed, they get kicked out anyway. Maybe.

I didn't hear the door open, nor did Alex, we were too busy unpacking. "Hey man, guess who's here?" What the hell? I get tackled and I fall onto the bottom bunk. "What the fuck, I thought you said you weren't coming?" I say at him with excitement rather than discontent. He did say he'd be a good peacekeeper, I guess. I'm utterly surprised to see him, though pleased because this means that there isn't going to be an awkward stranger in the room. He goes to shake Alex's hand. "Good to see you." Alex nods, shaking it. "Yeah, you too." He tells Matt, who is grinning, maybe surprised to have been this fortunate to get a room with his friends. Because that's what we are, friends. There's no doubting it now. Whatever happened in the past is staying there now. "You're assigned here too? Is that even possible?" It is strange that three people who know each other are put in the same rooms.

Maybe they're testing our loyalty.

It suddenly dawns on me that this may not be a good thing after all. What would happen if we were tested against each other? Two twins and their friend. I try not to think about it.

"Really good to see you here though." I say getting up from the bed. "That's yours, I don't think anybody else is coming so you've got free pick." I point over to the free bunk. "Unless you want to swap with Al." I mock, because it would probably break any tension. I think us Orcas are eager to ditch our siblings. Tara did it at the party, and now I would easily do it here. "Ty, I don't think he could put up with your snoring." What? I don't snore. I don't think... "I don't snore." ...But there's no way for me to know. He laughs at me. "Yeah, you do. I should know, I've been sharing a room with you for eighteen years." It's strange hearing our age. It just goes to show how far we've come, albeit how little we've accomplished. That'll all change soon though.

W O R D. C O U N T : 623

N O T E S :

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

Vy Pryce
Age: Eighteen
District: Two

"So you're really going through with this?" Brittany mockingly laughs as she rolls her eyes exactly how Vy has learned to roll hers. With a mother that does that disrespectful gesture daily it was hard not to pick up on. Now at the age of eighteen and countless reminders that she's going to be joining the peacekeeper academy, it isn't until now that Brittany's actually listening. Taking her seriously? Yeah right, as if that's ever going to happen.

With no time to spare Vy's voice stays calm and peaceful with the toddler giggling in her lap. "Don't be jealous Brittany, I'm sure they would of accepted you if you actually tried." Sarcasm is now the only way Vy communicates with her mother, or maybe everyone aside from Brooklyn. After being tormented by that witch her entire life she's grown pro to ignore her cruel words. Maybe they eat Vy's insides, glued to the back of her mind though she'll never admit it. "No my fault you were too busy training a four year old." Well at least Vy now has a tough disposition to thank her for. She's also grown very well at getting under her mother's skin as much as she does to her. "Let's not start fighting in front of Brooklyn." That cocky grin is plastered to her face though her voice is in that sweet tone as it always is while talking to her daughter.

"I give you less then a week before your ass gets kicked out." Brittany mutters while pulling away Brooklyn from Vy's lap. The sudden movement of course brings the toddler to a whine. Usually she'll then settle in her grandmother's arms, but as if she knows her mother's leaving for a few weeks she begins crying as if she's regressed to a one year old.

"Language..." Vy mentions though getting Brittany to not slip up some curse words around the baby is impossible. "Gosh, I'm the scary looking one yet you're the one thats making her scream." She retrieves to her feet and closes the distances between her and Brittany. Instinctively her mother jolts away, forgetting that she has the protection of Brooklyn in her arms. Exactly how Vy's grown soft. She's unable to be violent in front of the little angel. "I swear to god if you lay a hand on her while I'm gone you'll be as good as dead when I return." Vy threatens with a cold expression that relaxes once her eyes go down to the baby in Brittany's arms.

"I made you, I can destroy you." Brittany's power returns though they both know she'd never harm Brooklyn, if anything she'd jump in front of a bullet for the little thing. With her inability to treat Vy the same way even when she was that young, it's hard to trust that her old personality won't find it's way in front of Brooklyn. It's been two years already now though, so the chances of that are slim.

"Sure ya can." Vy finds herself rolling her eyes exactly how her mom does. "I'll see you soon baby girl." She gives Brooklyn a kiss on her soft forehead, giving no acknowledgment to Brittany as she exits the house. She's broken bones before, yet finds it more painful to leave with knowing that she won't be seeing her baby for a bit. They both need a brighter future then what Brittany is providing though, and the peacekeeper academy is just the thing that can do that.

---

"I wouldn't put me in a girl's bunk." Vy advices with lack of emotion among her face. She's mocking their serious expressions, but none of them know that. Somehow she resists a chuckle with the idea of her having to share a room with chicks. Unless they only want male peacekeepers, they're making a huge mistake.

"Did I ask you Cadet?" Her blank expression grows stiff with annoyance of another undisciplined kid. "You better get an attitude check if you want to last here." She gives her own advice and gives Vy a death glare until she's trotting off towards the female dorms.

Already two females Vy's age are getting comfortable within there room, and it's clear that they know one another. Why is it that all chicks know one another? Well with the exception of Vy who's far from falling under the chick category. Both grow silent as Vy enters the room, only giving her a disgusted look just because of that stature she holds; short yet built, confident, and without an ounce of girly qualities in her. For some reason nearly all females hate this, finding her rude and just too different before even hearing how sarcastic and violent she can really get.

"Hi to you to." Vy throws her bag on the clearly open bag. They only laugh and look at one another as if to say really? This is not a good start, and already Vy wants to quit this stupid academy. With a shrug she decides on letting Miss Captain decide. She gives a hard swing at the closest girl towards her, getting a nice punch to damage her pretty little face. "Opps, I should work on that." They surprisingly don't fight back, but instead gasp and immediately run off to inform someone.

---

"Do you not want to be here Cadet?" The same Captain, Vy had warned not to put her in a female dorm, questions. She knew there was going to be some trouble makers, but within the first hour? This is ridiculous.

"I told you not to put me with females, Captain." Her arms are crossed and attitude is as bad as before. There's such a urge to throw her out of the program and only allow in the respectable Cadets, but then again where would the fun in that be though? This blond would simply be able to stroll the streets to cause trouble to these peacekeepers. The entire point of this academy is to raise these keepers, mold them into products of the capitol, even the worst of the worst.

"You want to room with the boys Cadet?" She laughs and a smile actually forms to across her face. "Alright fine, we'll put you with them." Avoid more fights, and maybe these tough guys will be able to put this female in her place. A slip with the new room number is given and Vy happily leaves this time. She wouldn't be able to put up with those girls for another second, smart move.

---

Three guys are already settling in, but with a much different approach then the girls from earlier. It's difficult to actually pin point, but males are simply smarter and less obnoxious. Instantly the shaved blond is recognizable, and Vy's unable to chuckle at the irony. Their first encounter wasn't horrible even if Matthew did learn of her horrible attitude. The second time though, she broke the arm of someone he clearly cared about. Hopefully he won't hold a grudge, especially if Kyanite explained their new understanding of one another. They were lucky enough to be put in the same hospital room, and let's just say Brooklyn's able to win over anyone. Certainly Kyanite passed on the message with how close it appeared that they were.

"Sorry to break up the three musketeers, but you guys have a new roomie" Vy does her best to introduce herself, that's a good way...right? Starting off with a joke? Because if they're not one for humor and sarcasm, this will be even worse then sharing a room with some chicks.

[Taggerung]

This town is colder now, I think it's sick of us
It's time to make our move, I'm shaking off the rust
I've got my heart set on anywhere but here
I'm staring down myself, counting up the years
XXX

Justin lay on his bed with his arms gently at his sides, hands folded neatly on his chest. His blue eyes stared up at the ceiling as his mind whirled around in his head, his inner voice yelling at him on the left while it continually attempted to soothe him on the right. How could he possibly do this to his parents? But then again, how could they possibly expect him to do nothing but stay here all of his life, doing something he didn't enjoy?

...not that he ever told them he didn't want to be what they wanted him to be...

Maybe that was all the problem. That was what had started this unrealistic dream of his to go out and do something more exciting with his life. That was why he had stayed after school so many days, pouring his everything into training. It wasn't like he ever wanted to be in the games. He had never put his name into that jar anymore than he had ever had to. And it wasn't like he hated his parents at all, no. He dearly loved the both of them.

'So why haven't you told them yet?'

Justin's hands rose to press against his closing eyes, a groan escaping his open mouth. He had an entire month to tell his parents that he had applied, and been accepted into, the Peacekeeper academy. He knew that they wouldn't exactly be happy about it, and that they would feel a little hurt about it, but the thing was... he wasn't sure whether or not they would be proud of him for it. And it scared him to death to tell them, and watch their faces fall in disappointment. He didn't know if he could bare that kind of feeling.

“Why did I do this in the first place?” he grumbled, for a flashing moment, completely angry at himself. It faded as he sat up, though, the soothing side of his mind telling him that it was what he wanted to do. Besides, if he didn't like it after he got there, there was always the option of dropping out before graduation.

“Tch,” he scoffed at the entire idea of dropping out, “They'd be even more disappointed at me for that... Damnit, Justin... Why don't you ever think about things? Argh...” Taking in a deep breath, the young man stood up, stretching out. He hadn't gotten the slightest amount of sleep last night, having rolled around in his bed arguing with himself about his decision making. It hadn't been the best idea of his life, staying up the entire night before academy started, but... well, when else would you think about the pros and cons of not having told your family you were leaving them the next morning for the next... month or so before going off to become something that wouldn't ever be home.

Welp, too late to dwell on everything now. He had to be there in...

“Shit!” Justin looked up at the clock on his wall to discover that he had to be at the academy in fifteen minutes. Walking took twenty minutes to get there.

He threw on his dark pants, buttoning up his uniform shirt to merely throw his tie around his shoulders. So much for spending an hour downstairs to tell and console his parents (or himself, if it went badly). Hesitating at his door, Justin glanced back at his bare bedroom, taking it in. He'd be back here, of course, but he'd be... different. Or maybe his parents wouldn't allow him back. In which case he'd very much like to remember it. Shaking his head, Justin threw open the door, knowing that he had to get there fast.

Upon his rush downstairs, he nearly ran into his father, who stood at the bottom of the steps, his arms crossed and a paper dangling from one of his aged hands. Justin shuddered in fear, his head slowly tilting upwards to look into his father's eyes, the elder man's face unreadable.

“Dad, I... I can explain – I didn't tell you because-”

“It's alright son, we knew,” the deep voice interrupted him. “We've just been waiting for you to tell us. If you were really planning on hiding this, maybe you should have found a better place to hide your acceptance letter than your mother's kitchen drawers.”

Justin remained silent as his father spoke, searching his face for any form of disappointment or detest. There was nothing there, though. Maybe he was just looking too hard... But when his father's face suddenly split into a smile, that kind of proud smile that he had gotten all the time when he was younger, when his father was teaching him just how to do the little things in jewelry creation and he'd gotten it good within the first dozen tries. It made Justin shake a little, the fear suddenly melting away into... he wasn't sure what it was that he was feeling, but it made him step forward, arms wrapping around his father in a hug.

“We're proud of you, son,” his father spoke, returning the hug for a moment before pushing him to arms' length to take his son's new uniformed appearance in. “What's all this, though? You look like you just dragged yourself out of a tornado.”

“I'm... well. Running late?”

“Oh! Well, then, you'd best get going!” A slap on his shoulder sent Justin stumbling forward, elation breaking through his chest. He was going to do this, and he was going to be the best damned peacekeeper around. Rushing to the door, though, he paused and looked back, his mouth open as if he were about to speak. It never came, though, as a vice-like squeak came in surprising him from behind.

“Mother,” he managed to gasp out, “Mother, I can't... Air, I need to breath, mom.”

“Oh, honey! We're so proud of you!”

Sucking in a deep breathe as she let him go, Justin turned to smile at her. “Thanks, mom, but...”

“He's running late, Celeste. Let 'm go.”

Her hand rested gently across her son's cheek for a moment more before she smiled at him and let her hand drop. A smile graced her lips as she muttered one last thing before letting her boy go, “Good luck. I know you'll make us proud.”

---

Having sprinted the entire way to the academy, Justin arrived gasping and huffing, panting and looking completely ragged. His blonde hair lay across his head in a mess, his tie still wasn't tied properly, and the left half of his shirt wasn't even tucked in. His belt was undone and his boots were laced up but not tied, and the dufflebag slung across his shoulder still had a pair of socks sticking out of it. Scrambling through to the gate, he felt around his pockets for his letter, ignoring the Peacekeeper that was looking him up and down in disgust.

“Uh,” he puffed, at last offering the older man his letter, “I... Am I late?”

The man shook his head, remaining silent as Justin let out a happy sigh. Skimming over the letter, he handed it back, his eyes narrowed with distaste. “Looks like you're in. I'd get dressed all the way before going to see the Lt. Commander,” he sneered before continuing, “The male dorms are down to the right of the courtyard. Your room is on the first floor. I'd hurry if I were you.” It was obvious this man didn't think all the cadets were going to make it.

That didn't stop Justin, though. He merely took his letter back, a quiet 'thanks' hovering in the air between them out of politeness, and dashed off towards the buildings that he was assuming the dorms were in. Justin attempted to tuck in his shirt fully as he entered the building, but gave it up as soon as he entered and found that he had to look at a map and wonder where exactly he was going to be bunked. Wandering down into one of the corridors, he found himself excited. Even after the prick at the gate. A grin even happened to split his face as he noticed that there was a door open, hopefully with some open bunks.

He waltz up to it, stepping into the light of the room and looking around. In total, three boys and a girl stood there, and by the sound of things, he'd just arrived a little two late. He counted a total of two bunks, four beds within the room. Damn. That's what he got for being late, though, right. But it was kind of weird that a female would be bunking with three dudes. Maybe the rules weren't exactly set in stone here.

“Too late for a bunk in here?” he questioned from behind the girl, his bag still danging from his shoulder.

Steady feet, don't fail me now
Gonna run till you can't walk
Something pulls my focus out
And I'm standing down

_{1500 werds}

[*]

I am going to be great. One day, I will have the respect that others only dream of. One day, there will come a time when everything I learn from this place will serve me in the best way possible. Loyalty, devotion, and the ability to enforce the law is what I'm seeking. What I am trying to find is the balance in life. I've got the need to be able to protect those that need protecting, serve those that need the assistance and punish those who do wrong. The peacekeepers are made for the captiol. Peacekeepers get the treatment that make me envision what I seek. I want to be one of them, and soon, I will be.

I just have to take that first step out of my door and hope it doesn't cause any problems.

"Kyanite. I'm leaving, sis." My voice carries through her door as I knock on it and I hear the faint whisper of an entrance. Her voice is low as if I'd just woke her from a slumber and when I go into her room, I see her laying on her bed with her arm propped up on the pillows, her lids half closed as she starts seeing me and she sits up the best she can with one arm. I stare at her with a kind of brotherly hatred for her situation. The brace takes up her entire arm, keeping her arm bent at an angle while the device keeps her arm completely imobilized. I shake my head and walk further in her room and take the chair at her desk and sit in it backwards, straddling the tall portion of it as she leans back down. She graces me with a pleasant smile upon her face and lays still while she reaches up to rub her face of the sleep she was in the middle of.

"That medicine still making you sleep? Are you still hurting?" My words seem tough today, but still holds that gentle portion only for her. She don't deserve a lot of what I give her in my attitude, but I just do what I think I need to. Today, I don't need to be harsh with her at all after everything she's been through. Though, I've monitored her outtings a little bit closer now. I threaten telling dad what exactly happened that night when she went to that underground fight club and she's complied with staying home. Then again, the way her arm looks, she'd not get far in a fight anyways. She's been made to take it easy and dad's actually been giving her the cold shoulder as of late. If only he knew how she trumped Vy in that fight. How she actually won in a brutal fight that wasn't just for an audience. He would be proud. Instead, he only knows the reason for her situation as that she went out for a walk and was attacked in the street.

With a gentle nod, she lets me know that she's still in pain. It's been a while since that's happened, but it has caused her some complications that isn't letting her arm heal properly. "It'll just take some time to heal, Kya. Don't worry. Just take it easy. You're suppose to. I'll be home on the weekeneds. You don't let dad make you train. You hear me? If he starts any shit with you, you call me. I don't care if it's in the middle of the night. I will have the backing of the peacekeepers behind me. I know how he is and so do you."

"Yeah. I know Jeran. I just... you know I won't do that to him. I'll be fine. I've always been fine. I just take it, suck it up and do it anyways. I'm not going to cause him any trouble. I've done enough to him lately." She moves her arm up just a little, grimaceing and lets it lay back down gently on the pillow.

"Hold down the fort. I'm going to miss you. Do NOT let that ass back in this house, you got me? Dad's already threatened to shoot him if he shows up. I don't want to have to arrest dad for killing someone. Got me? I'll be home soon." My voice goes to a lower tone before I get up and push the chair back under the desk. "Get some more sleep."

With just a few steps, I've made it back to her door and shut it. By the stairs, I pick up my duffle and sling it over my shoulder and head downstairs to meet up with my father for the last time before I leave. This is the hardest thing I've ever had to do and I'm not liking it right now. At all. The moment my feet touch the last step and then the living room floor, his gruff voice comes out from the armchair by the fireplace that's lit with a crackling fire.

"Leaving now, dad. I'll be home on the weekends. Kya's still sleeping." I tell him as a statement. No questions here. No demands. Just simple words that make it seem like small talk even though I don't want to talk to him. When I told him I was joining the academy, it was a huge blow up that resulted in a huge fight and Kya wanting to join too, but with her arm severely messed up, she'll have to wait. That still didn't help though when she pushed his buttons one too many times to the point that I had to grab his arm before he hit her. His attitide toward her has changed dramatically since the pregames. The moment she lost the first fight and then the one against Mark, he's treated her like she was nothing yet demanded nothing but perfection still. I don't understand it, but there's not much I can do other than be at the right place at the right time.

"You're making a mistake boy. Joining the peacekeepers. Their nothing but lowlifes trying to push judgements on people that are just doing an honest days work. You'll see one day son. It isn't going to be all it's cracked up to be and you'll be coming back home with your tail between your legs. We all make mistakes. Kyanite has learned hers. Time for you to learn yours. The moment you walk out that door, you won't be my son anymore when you come home. You'll be coming back as a guest until you find you place in this family." I don't understand his words or explaination, but I take it with a stiff upper lip. I give him a subtle nod and head straight for the door. His voice never comes across again, but his words linger in my head.

When I come home, I won't be part of the family anymore. What was that suppose to mean? What kind of meaning is behind that? I know for a fact, Kya won't like it at all if she knew. Thank God she wasn't around to hear him say that. The next time I see him though, I can only hope that he'll respect me more for what I'm about to do.

My fingers touch the truck door and a few moments later, I take off for the next step in my life. I will be great. One day, my old man is going to have to understand that one way of life isn't made for me. His life isn't my own. I make my own decisions. I make my own path. For now, I need to clear my head. Everything left behind just has to be that; behind me. Kya will just have to stand up to dad and if he gets out of line, I know I'm going to be getting a phone call or the sargent will inform of what's going on if he takes the calls.

Look forward.

No looking back.

Two steps inside the academy, I pass by several people all dressed alike. Their uniforms made just for them with the pristine look of the capital emblems on the front of their clothes. I may be a rookie, but I feel as if I was born for this place. My heart flutters so fast and already the adrenaline is coursing through my veins.

"Cadet!" I turn my head to meet with a uniformed officer who walks near me, his face stern and unwavering as he looks me over. His thin lips don't move except for when he talks but his eyes glare at me like I'm fresh meat.

"Sir?" I chime out quickly and let my duffle fall from my shoulders allowing it to hang at my side as I address him.

"You look lost. Where you heading?" His beady eyes are now focused on my answer and my tone. If it's one thing I'm not afraid of it has to be the threatening tone that I've been used to growing up with. At least my father has prepared me for that.

"Just on my way to sign in and get situated within my bunk. Anything I can do for you, sir?" I tell him and then wait. A very small amount of amusement come to his lips as he lets his head move downward in a quick, almost unnoticable nod.

"You start by calling me Sergent Mets. Sir is a term you use to respect others. You will not respect me at all by calling me - Sir. You will do well to learn quickly the names of your commanding officers. I am not your father. In this place, I am nothing but your nightmare. You got me? What's your name, boy?"

"Jeran Ruze." I stare at him with a air of confidence, my voice low and almost robotic like. I'm unsure of what their really expecting to see out of the newbies, but I can only hope to stay on their good side and that includes Sergent Mets.

"Cadet Ruze. Get where you need to be. Dismissed." My first meeting with an officer seems to have me wishing for more right now. This feeling is almost invigorating. Though, I know that more will come later on in time and that was not going to be the last time I get stopped by my highers. Being here is right.

---

"Jeran Ruze. Eighteen." My voice elicites nothing more than just a casual tone now because of the person taking my information. He's young, with stubble on his chin and he's currently in nothing but a casual outfit. He gives me a peice of paper as well as two uniforms and another set of clothes I take will be for sleeping in. I get my things and take off toward the area that he directs me to my bunk and the moment I reach my room, I find it completely vacant. There are only three beds inside. One of the beds are on the far right corner, lining the wall and in the middle is the closet like dresser. It takes up the entire middle between the single twin size bed and the bunk beds on the other side, which are solely identical to the single. Each bed is pristine and without a wrinkle in the bedding. I can only assume that this is how the room is going to be kept for my time here.

As for being the first here, I automatically aim for the single bed and sit down, putting my duffle beside me and lay the uniforms beside me.

"This is home." I state. My new life has began. I'm one step closer to my goal.

(1956 = PAT)

[Jack Lexington]

MATTHEW DUNHAM

Tyren's not very stable on his legs as he falls onto the bunk when I tackle him and takes me down with him. If we didn't both know better this could be a very awkward moment.
"What the fuck, I thought you said you weren't coming?"
A shit eating grin spreads on my face when I pet him on the chest and reply. "You inspired me to greater achievement, buddy."
Then I push myself off him to look at his brother.
"You're assigned here too? Is that even possible?" He asks and I reply. "Guess so before I grab my bag and throw it onto one of the beds with my left hand, which I've started to use much more over the past 6 weeks.
The two brothers get into a verbal match about who snores and who not so I simply stay out of it and sit down on the bunk far away from them because I don't need anybody snoring right in my ear. With amusement I watch their brotherly bickering before I lean back and put my hand behind my head to get a little more comfortable.
"You two aren't married, are you?" I tease them.

Just then another cadet enters the room and right away claims her spot. To my great annoyance it's Vy, the girl who annoyed me with her attitude at the hospital but then gave me a ride home. She really messed things up with me when she delivered that one last unnecessary punch against Kyanite, that messed up her arm again.
Instantly my gaze darkens as I watch her step into the room.

"Sorry to break up the three musketeers, but you guys have a new roomie" She announces with a shit load of attitude or is it supposed to be a joke.

I know that we're supposed to keep a low profile around here but right now none of the 'officials' are around so I straighten up on my bunk and glare at her.
"I don't think so. I'd take anybody over you!"
There. She knows where I stand when it comes to her.
I'm not sure whether Tyren and Alex will be able to understand why I'm being so hostile but I'll make sure to explain later...or maybe now.
"Do you want to tell these guys what you did last week or should I?"
I get up to stand right in front of her and block the way into the room since I'm at least a head taller than her.

[Anatra]

"You two aren't married, are you?" We look at him briefly but laugh. It is true, we do act like a married couple now and then. Before I get to reply, another cadet enters. It's a girl. "Sorry to break up the three musketeers, but you guys have a new roomie" I quickly check the sheet of paper on the desk near to me. It clearly doesn't have a female name, unless she's called Justin. I look at her and I can see that glint in her eye that tells me she fights, or has some kind of anger problem. It is in everybody who does it, even me sometimes. It's about the only thing I can tell just from appearance besides whether they're a male or female. She's quite strong looking, I'd be afraid of her if I wasn't the same. But I am, and she's planning on taking up somebody else's space.

I can tell she's joking when she calls us the three musketeers. But there's an edge to the way she speaks that comes across a little hostile. Maybe it is just the way I heard it. "I don't think so. I'd take anybody over you!" Matthew's quick outburst makes me curious as to what she's done to piss him off so much. He seems to know all the ladies around District Two.

In this moment I do have my own piece to say but I hold my tongue, trusting Matt a little bit with what his saying. I'm not ready to make any judgements. After all, everything could be a test in this place. "Do you want to tell these guys what you did last week or should I?" If it was a week ago and he's still bothered, it must be a big deal. I'm even more curious now.

A few moments later, another cadet arrives. That'll be Justin, then. “Too late for a bunk in here?” I feel sorry for him, because Vy doesn't look like she's moving. Maybe I should, or Alex. Maybe even Matt. "Umm." I start, a little hesitant because I don't know what happening with the bunk arrangements anymore. Out of the corner of his eye, however, Alex notices, with the help of his glasses, a large amount of bedding underneath one of the bunks. "Sure. But it'll have to be the floor." He says with a slight tone of sympathy towards Justin. "We can swap, if you want." He adds.

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[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

It's always good to know when people hold grudges, and clearly Matthew has formed one of his own. He must be awfully close to Kyanite to be this furious over the incident. As if he has a picking of roommates he establishes his desire to take anyone else in aside from her. Often knowing one's hated would have the person rethinking their actions, attempting to change. This high reaction is priceless to Vy though as she takes it as doing something right. They've only met once, and then briefly at the ending of the underground fight, yet there's a solid hatred towards her. A smile graces her lips with confidence and she firmly stands her ground. If she has to be room switched again on only the first day they'll simply be kicking her out for sure with inability to cooperate with anyone.

"I didn't know you're the room assigner." Vy's still unable to shift her attitude as the sarcasm still fills every word of hers. She'd be unable to turn cheeks even if she tried, being kind just feels too submissive.

The past it brought up with Matthew's options of either him or Vy sharing what had happened to form this great bond that they have. Just like every guy he also needs to showoff his tall and built disposition by standing up and closing the distances between them, clearly trying to be intimidating. She straightens up as well with a sly smirk to gesture her lack of fear, as if height and the common boy-girl difference in body ratio's going to scare her. Should Matthew have the honors of telling the story or should she? Oddly enough it's up to her apparently.

"Bright idea, tell a bunch of future peacekeepers where you enjoy spending your friday nights." Maybe he knows these guys but Vy's never seen them at the fights and they're all in an academy to become peacekeepers! It just doesn't seem like a bight idea to go around sharing information about the underground fights even if they all are still teenagers. A lot of people take this place seriously and ratting someone out before even becoming an officer must boost up some major points. "If you must." She gives permission though Matthew will probably be gossiping either way. "But i'm not leaving because you're mister sensitive. It's easier to put up with you then retarded females." She drops her bag at her feet as if to make it official.

Another person walks in even though there's no obvious beds left available. Maybe some miscommunication had happened? "To late for a bunk in here?" He questions, probably not realizing the awkward situation he's walked into. Well it appears as though he's correct, exactly why the male population is better they're able to notice things. One of the guys that have been here the entire time offers the floor and is even kind enough to actually switch with him. Guess there may be good people within this district, it surprises Vy a bit though she keeps her eyes locked upon Matthew simply because she doesn't the extent of this hatred just yet. As much as she'd prefer not to get kicked out a fight would be fun though.

"I don't mind taking the floor." Vy comments subtly, wanting to rid of this hostility a little. "They switched me in here last minute anyways." She gives a slight shrug because even a cushion on the floor is better then dealing with chicks. "Guess I just can't get along with anyone." The smirk from earlier returns because she could truly careless if everyone hated her, she's too used to it for it to be any other way.

[Jack Lexington]

MATTHEW DUNHAM your local pit bull

A sensation I haven't felt in a while but that's always getting me in trouble is starting to boil up inside of my core: Anger.
I've only met this girt twice but she's already managed to prove she's full of herself, chooses not to controll her tongue and most of all fights dirty. On top of that she gives me enough attitude to remind me why I actually hate girls. It's chicks like her who think that they can take on any guy and are something better.

She straightens up and snaps back at me. "I didn't know you're the room assigner."
I grit my teeth but refrain from saying anything. After all I came here to become a peace keeper and not get evicted during my first ten minutes.
"Bright idea, tell a bunch of future peacekeepers where you enjoy spending your friday nights."
She might be right about that one. Not only is underground fighting illegal but also watching it.

"If you must." Vy says casually as if nothing could touch her. "But i'm not leaving because you're mister sensitive. It's easier to put up with you then retarded females."

If I was a dog I'd probably start growling at her but today my eyes have to do the talking to let her know how much I despise her for what she's done to Kyanite.
I glare at her a little longer and only share. "This girl here fought my friend the other day and when the fight was OVER." I stress that part. "Decided to break her arm." At least that's what it looked like from where I stood.
"I'll make sure you're out of here faster than you know." I threaten her because I'm sure I won't just reconsider my hatred for her.
Then I turn my back on her and ignore the rest of the conversation between her and the newcomer.
Instead I cast a glance at Tyren hoping to have him in my corner on this one. I know he'll avoid conflict because that's the guy he is but hopefully he'll share my feelings on unfair fighting.

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

It all becomes nothing but a stare down as if to determined who's stronger. So much for becoming peacekeepers but then again they don't seem to do much different. As for Vy she doesn't budge and hardly blinks as she's performed this small competition before. Clearly his girlfriend has yet to mention the agreement they conquered up with while stuck in hospital beds, only because Brooklyn was there though. Hell that little girl can probably even make Matthew melt. Instead of mentioning that everything was settled between the two females, Vy plays around with Matthew's anger. He'll find out eventually and maybe the air won't be so hostile between the two of them. Doesn't sound like too much fun though.

The reason for this hatred is vocalized through Matthew who of course is very one-sided. "Because someone can actually declare a fight to be over." Vy mocks because it all just sounds ridiculous to her. "Might I add your friend broke my knee." Luckily for her taking a long chunk of time to stay off of her knee resulted in only a small brace that can be hidden underneath some nice baggy pants. Unlike most girls, Vy's wardrobe may hold one article of tight clothing.

"I'll make sure you're out of here faster than you know." Matthew promises and it's all entertainment for Vy. As if she's not doing a good enough job of that on her own.

"Is that a challenge or a bet?" She questions with a load of sarcasm dripping from her voice. With Matthew's back turned to her she changes her attention over to the ones who probably now already hold a bad impression for her.



(((OOC: Sorry for going out of order, I was dying to reply and felt that her response may be helpful for other people's post. =3 Her offer of taking the floor still stands though.))

[Anatra]

I don't know who this girl is, but her attitude just doesn't sit right in the room. "I didn't know you're the room assigner." She retorts. It's all too clear that Matthew has a history with this girl, and it doesn't look to be a good one. But in honesty, when is it? "Bright idea, tell a bunch of future peacekeepers where you enjoy spending your friday nights." Curiosity gets the better of me whilst I watch the two argue on. "But i'm not leaving because you're mister sensitive. It's easier to put up with you then retarded females." As much as I like the whole direct approach, claiming her space and making it known she's not going to be messed with, she's up in his face like she doesn't give a fuck and that is what really annoys me about girls like this. They're not careers, they're savages. I don't know anything about her so I can't judge too harshly, but by the looks of it, she's got nothing going for her and too many problems for us to comprehend. I don't see why she couldn't just come in and be calm, but obviously she's not like that.

"I don't mind taking the floor." She lets us know. At least I appreciate that much, now Alex doesn't have to. Plus, I'm sure Matt would sleep easier knowing she isn't in the same bunk. "Probably for the best." I say, not meaning much by it though I can tell I've said it a little sourly. "Guess I just can't get along with anyone."

Got that right. For now, at least.

"This girl here fought my friend the other day and when the fight was OVER." He puts emphasis, highlighting the point. "Decided to break her arm." I narrow my eyes, because that concept is familiar. The reason why people die in the pregames is because the referee can rarely split the final fights up due to the weapons the participants carry. In my fight, I can only just remember Matthew running back at me after the fight had finished. Whether it was to finish me or to save me, I don't know. The doubt plays on in my mind since the amnesia I suffered due to the blood loss all that while ago still hasn't cured itself and likely never will. It makes me uncertain about backing Matthew in this argument simply out of the possibility of hypocrisy.
"I'll make sure you're out of here faster than you know." He threatens her. I'm in a room with two people who just aren't fit for peacekeeping. It's the unfortunate truth, at least right now anyway. Matthew can easily change his ways I feel, but Vy? She's just got an attitude that bites at the ankles.

I wasn't there, so I don't know the story. I see Matt glance at me as though to say I should help. Quickly, I can feel the career inside of me leap out. "Just shut the fuck up and sit down." I glare right at her, clearly irritated a lot by her attitude. "You were put in our room, so it's our terms. Put whatever you two have behind you." I feel my voice being ruthless. Career-like and probably unseen since the pregames. I aim my rant at Vy, though a bit at Matt though I don't blame him at all for opposing her being here. Hopefully he understands that. I'm not sure whether I look intimidating or not, I don't intend it but I feel as though I've lost a bit of control. The scars on my neck, arms and the training-preparedness of my body should be enough to at least phase her in the slightest way. I can feel Alex wanting to intervene because he knows that when I get angry like this, I'm likely more serious than I should be.

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[Jack Lexington]

I smirk to myself while still facing the wall when she mentions that Kyanite broke her knee. I hope it hurt like hell.

Of course the girl has a come back to my thread. "Is that a challenge or a bet?"
'Make it whatever you want. You're out soon.' Lingers on my lips but I've deciced not to talk to her anymore in case some pk is actually listening in. After all I don't want to be the one being kicked out.

That's when Tyren actually shows me a new side of him. The otherwise so calm and collected guy suddenly stands up to this vicious chick.
"Just shut the fuck up and sit down."
Whoa , where did that come from, Mr. Zen?
"You were put in our room, so it's our terms. Put whatever you two have behind you."
I turn to watch his anger outbreak with a bit of amusement when he shoots me a brief look that makes me think he meant me as well.
My eyes narrow slightly as I'm still agitated but I certainly won't start arguing with my friend.
Instead I sit on my bunk with my hands behind my head and give her an amused look. Somebody just got told off! Ha!

I figure a little more yanking her chain can't hurt so I get up and start spreading out the uniform.
"Time to get changed. Since you're so keen staying in a guys dorm I hope you don't mind me changing here."
And before she can object my jacket is off. Then my pullover follows, which is a little harder than usual because I still can't lift my right arm all the way above my shoulder. It's pathetically thin now and a bit stiff due to the lack of use.
Then I start unzipping my fly looking straight in her face.
I fully expect her to stare back the whole time and hopefully feel pretty ashamed and run out to the other girls.

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

So it appears that Vy's new roommates have already been aquatinted with one another for at least a bit. It's nothing that she able to hold against the new strangers she'll be sleeping just feet away from. To automatically take a friends side just means loyalty, or so Vy would like to believe. Nearly every asset is joined with a liability though, making a loyal friend stubborn towards the other side which ever fight apparently has. She's always been just so great at making great first impressions. Usually guys understand her sarcasm though, but clearly no one does around these parts. "Just shut the fuck up and sit down." Her first orders given by someone who doesn't even hold one rank higher. How sweet, woof.

At least something that Vy can agree on comes out next, putting what happened by them up. She was even able to come up with an agreement with Kyanite yet her boyfriend's unable to let it go. The rest of being put in their room and there for she has to go by their terms even sounds reasonable for now. There's a much higher chance of Vy lasting in this room then any females, least the Brunette she fought doesn't seem too bad. Wish she could say the same about the dude willing to hold a grudge she doesn't even have.

"Fine by me." Vy finally drops the sarcasm and attempts at the reasoning, though her expression doesn't budge. "Mind if I put away my stuff and get to orientation instead of sitting? I promise to stay quiet." She's unable to hold back the sarcasm for very long, but being ordered around is a bit insulting and there for deserves a witty remark. She goes to stuff her bag next to the cushion under one of the bunks. There's nothing she needs in there with her uniform already laying on top. Plus who knows what Brooklyn snuck into her bag, and pulling out a picture of a toddler or one of the rugrat's bears may ruin this impression she'd much rather keep.

"Time to get changed. Since you're so keen staying in a guys dorm I hope you don't mind me changing here." Matthew warns and cause a laughter along with a shrug from Vy. As if she hasn't seen her share of guys, but it must mean a lot to him.

"It's your room." She's already trouble enough with her attitude, how annoying would it be to have to go to the restrooms every time one has to change. Despite her lack of seeming respectful, she still averts her eyes else where. Maybe before Brooklyn Vy would flirt with anyone, but now a males body only plasters images of the baby through her mind. She's able to feel the death glare linger still on the back of her head. "Would you like me to leave?" She offers after being certain that Matthew's eyes are locked upon hers. Another staring contest, really?

Just to prove her lack of caring over a simple change, she turns her gaze back to her stuff to change herself. The sooner she's able to get out of here the better, because it's clear this guy's looking for revenge or an enemy. As fun as that sounds, she wants to at least try to last the first day. What's the big deal about changing anyways? With a sports-bra and girl-boxers covering her more then the average girl's bikini, it truly doesn't seem like a big deal. Trying to prove herself this entire time completely toke out memory of the minor brace keeping her right knee in place. She simply ignores it and does her best to pull her pants up quickly. A broken knee doesn't make her weak, nothing will.

[Anatra]

Alex still has his glasses on, sitting on the top bunk probably relaxing and not giving a care for the fuss being made below. I sit on the bottom, at the edge of my bed. I run my hands over my face a little and my attention is drawn to peacekeepers in the yard outside marching with rifles in their hands. It's dutiful, and nothing meriting actual attention, but I look nonetheless. The sun is bright, but the cloud block it making it seem more wintery despite the winter actually fading recently.
I undo the top button of my uniform which makes the tie feel looser around my next. I can't just sit here awaiting orders. I lean back against the back wall where my bunk is, laying across my bed only a slight. I pull from under my shirt the dog tags I was given on my eighteenth that has my name on one, and Alex's on another. He has one too.
I also have the bracelet that I was given by Matt on my birthday, of the bow and arrow upon it. I decide not to let him notice since it could be seen as pathetic or sensitive, for a lack of more basic words, by the girl. I still don't know her name, maybe she's said it but I forget things I care little about.

But she does seem like a good ally, if Matt got along with her.

Thankfully my father let me in on a little secret, that the first course is the first one you put down in the application. So for me, that's fitness. If I want to be in top shape, I'd better be exactly that. I consider using the door frame or the bunk bed frame as a pull-bar, but the chances of it breaking and me looking like an absolute tool are too high. I dismiss the notion.

Leaving the group and going to the gym sounds like a promising idea, or at least the mess hall. Either way I don't mind. The girl starts to get changed as well. It's not hard to avert my eyes. She's not my type. The fact Matt is getting changed doesn't phase me either, I just focus on my dog tags a little.

Suddenly, the door is drawn to an open with swiftness, and a certain female captain from earlier enters the room. Alex hops down from his bunk without a salute. "Captain Lussa, ma'am!" He says with the correct formality. I privately roll my eyes. "Nice of you to grace us with your presence." I say without reluctance. Vy really has hit a nerve I think. She walks directly to me, nose to nose almost. I can feel her breath on my face, even though she's a little shorter than me. "Scars. Shave that face and report to my office."

Why does that sound like the start of a dirty movie? I raise a brow at her. She turns on her heel and observes the room. She goes to the desk and brushes one firm finger across the edge, her other hand tightly behind her back with arrogance and duty. "Clean it." She commands. With her back turned, she fails to notice as my prick of a brother hits me on the arm. "The hell was that?" He whispers. She instantly turns herself around and glares at him. Oops, I almost hear his mind say. She carries on looking around.

Each step of her boot reminds me how silent the room has turned.

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