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Freelancer Barracks, Housing unit #187

Michigan lays back on his bed, and thought about what the Director said to him. This was the chance that he was waiting for. Coming into the program, he heard that 80% of the agents become recovery agents. He sighed happily, closing his eyes. One week. I can't wait. He was placed with Agent Utah, his best friend. She and North were his best, and only, friends. Xi was his friend, but the A.I. was a completely different story. Xi was part of him now. Xi was Michigan's whole life.

"Hey X? You know I love you right?" Michigan said to the empty room. Xi appeared on Michigan's chest.

'I feel a strong attraction to you also, Mitch.'

Michigan got up and opened the door, Xi transferring to his shoulder. He walked slowly to Utah's unit. He knocked softly and she opened the door a bit. Utah took one look at Michigan and closed the door slightly.

"What do you want?" She asked in a harsh tone.

Michigan pushed his way in and shut the door behind him. Utah sat on the edge of her bed, side arm in hand. Michigan sat next to her and slung his arm over his shoulder. She stood up and turned away from him. He walked up behind her and hugged her from behind.

"Utah, talk to me."

She just stood there and spoke.

"I didn't want to be sent to war. I wanted to be a recovery agent. I am good at finding people." She turns to face him. "Aaron, I'm scared." She wraps her arms around him.

"It'll be ok Jackie. We were chosen because we are the best. Do you think that they would send us if they didn't think that we weren't ready?"

She looks him in they eye and without warning she kisses him lightly on the lips.

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One week later

The pelican's engines scream as the ship lands on the desert planet of Varldoaari. Michigan looked around, the ship landed right next to ruins. A platoon of Marines carries supplies into the ruins, signifying that it's the base. Utah waked off and Michigan put his arm around her waist and smiles at her. "Watch it Michigan. You can't let personal feelings get in the way for right now." She said, kissing him quickly. A marine walks up to them, obviously the C.O. at the base. He salutes Michigan and Utah.

"It's a pleasure to have you both here. I hope you find your commendations suitable." He said lowering his arm.

Michigan salutes back. "Thank you, sir. I would like to take a look at your equipment. I'm pretty good with military technology."

"If you would follow me, I'll lead you to it." He said walking in the base.

"Oh, sir? I would appreciate it if you would get a marine to unpack my armor for me." Michigan said, already absorbed in his work.