Disclaimer: I don't own CoH, yadda yadda yadda. Enjoy
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Chapter 5
Training Day
"Good. Now, don't forget to control your breathing while you aim. Also, try to relax; tense muscles aren't good for a blaster like you." Hot lead was busy instructing Strike on ways of the blaster, while he and Nema watched from the sidelines. It had been one week since Strike arrived, and Nema had kept her word about getting some of her friends to assist in training Strike. At the moment, they were running around Galaxy city picking fights with Hellions and other low level baddies that crossed their path. As it turned out, Hot Lead was actually a decent instructor. Under his tutelage Strike hit more targets, conserved more energy, and was able to keep her power discharges at acceptable levels longer. Nema would occasionally give her tips about meleeing and keeping her distance in case things got rough. All in all, Strike could ask for better teachers to show her the ropes.
It was around seven in the morning, but Strike was already dripping with sweat. The AHD training program was one of the toughest challenges she ever experienced, but it didn't compare to fighting on the streets against enemies of flesh and blood that actually wanted to kill you. "So what do you think Lead? As far as blasters go, is she ready?" Nema asked. Hot Lead tugged on the sturdy leather strap of his rifle, eyes fixed on Strike as she continued to blast and dodge the incoming attacks from the small group of Vahz they found for her. Over the past week, she had improved greatly and wasn't a half bad student. She did what she was told, didn't talk back, and actually gave him respect; something he didn't expect from someone that was living with Nema. "I'd say she'd be able to hold her own against anything that's on her level, but I wouldn't recommend her going it alone just yet. I don't know exactly what your mission ensues here in Paragon, but I'll tell you this: the circle of thorns and Banished Pantheon are not to be taken likely." Hot Lead stole a glance over at Nema as he finished his last sentence. He saw as her eye twitched at the mention of the CoT and BP; it seems his contacts were on the money this time. "Who said anything about those guys? We're just doing our god-given duty to uphold the peace, just like everyone else." She responded coldly. Another tip that this was a touchy subject. For the few months that they have known each other, Nema always carried a lighthearted mood and demeanor. She was skilled, beautiful, and working for the betterment of everyone; there was no cause for her to get all moody over anything. "Just a hunch, the AHD's track record speaks for itself concerning the two groups. The fact that they've gotten higher in volume in Paragon, coupled with two AHD agents arriving only strengthens that record." He said with a sly chuckle. One thing was sure about Hot Lead: albeit a nice guy, he knew how to poke his nose around when he wanted something. "I'll say this for your own good HL: being nosy in matters like this isn't in your best interest. I appreciate your help with Strike, but I can't guarantee your safety if you get in too deeply." Lead tipped his hat, covering his face; it was all he could do in defense to such a serious statement.
Later that day. Everyone turned in for the day; Hot Lead officially stated that Strike's training in "the way of the Lead" were over. She was now an official member of the blaster class in his eyes. Nema was busy sorting through files strewn out over the floor as Strike walked in from her shower. "So, now that that's over, what do we do next?" She asked; Nema didn't lift her head to respond. She was still looking over documents and pictures, totally oblivious to the outside world. "Hello, earth to Nema." She looked up with a start at the cry for attention. "Hmm? What is it?" "I asked you what the next step is." Nema sat up Indian style contemplating the question. While thinking, she tossed a free beer at Strike. During the week they've known each other, this had become a reoccurring process: if you want answers, then you have to drink up. At first, this just hit Strike as a playful gesture between teammates, but as it went on she grew more suspicious. Any answers that were given were barely understood, and as the night when on, things became blurry and inconceivable. "Now that you're ready, it's time to hit our mission head-on. These are reports from our contacts around the city. They've pin-point two separate bases of the enemy: one belonging to the CoT, the other to the BP. I've thought long and hard about this, and as team leader I've decided that we are going to hit both bases at once. We can't confirm any connection between the two groups, but if they are working together, one will undoubtedly contact the other. If we get them both with their guards down, we'll be that much closer to putting an end to their operation." She finished her explanation by taking another chug from her near empty can. Just as suddenly as she was snapped out of her dream-like state of concentration, she was back in it staring at files and folders as if nothing had happened. I suppose these guys are either very weak, or I've gotten very strong. I just hope that I'm able to pull through on my end of the mission. Strike's mind was racing with thoughts and strategies while she dried her long blond hair, and got ready for bed. "Do you think that it'll be troublesome? I mean, I'm glad you have faith in me, but do you really think that I'm ready?" She called over her shoulder, unaware that her lighter half had gone back into her trance. With that Nema gathered all the files and folders in a neat pile and started toward the kitchen. "You've shown amazing improvement in the last week. Even with your natural abilities and skill, you've proven that you are ready to truly join the AHD's fight against heretics everywhere. Don't worry so much, I wouldn't give you an assignment if I didn't think you could handle it. I won't let any more friends die on me." She said with a smile. "What was that last part? I didn't catch all of that." Strike yelled back from the bathroom before reemerging back into the living room dressed for bed. Nema quickly wiped a tear from her eye before opening, and partaking of another can. "Ahhh, ambrosia of the gods. Huh? Oh, nothing, trust me little sista, you're ready for this." With that Strike headed toward her room and closed the door behind her. Nema was left alone crying silently to herself for the remainder of the night.
Sorry for the long wait, I hope this is up to par, and that everyone enjoys it. Please continue to review, Good or Bad, I need to know. Thanks.