Location: Diego Garcia Base- Main Hanger
Conference Room 1
Time: 9:15 A.M
The air was still and tense as the assembled group sat in silence. The only sound that could be heard was that of papers shuffling as Charlotte Mearing flipped and sorted through the documents that awaited to be signed.
“Mr. Whitmann.” Mearing announced, handing a thick document to the man in question. “Ms. Madsen.” She repeated the action with Maggie. “Ms. Banes. Mr. Banes.” She handed the father-daughter duo their respected contracts.
Simultaneously, the group began to flip through the multiple pages, eager to see what they were in for.
“As you can see,” Mearing started, specifically addressing Glen, Maggie and Mikaela, “your forms of confidentiality are different from last time, thanks to…” her eyes went over to where John Keller and General Morshower sat, the former daring her to keep pushing his buttons, “new developments. As for you,” she turned to Colin Banes, who looked up from his document, “your documents contain a contract that says you’ll keep your mouth-”
“Director Mearing.” John Keller warned.
Mearing closed her eyes and took a breath before starting over, “Mr. Banes…your forms say that you vow to keep the Autobots, the organization of N.E.S.T and all of its involvements in the world’s ongoings a secret. After you return home, you will not tell anyone you were here; You will not confirm the existence of extraterrestrial robots; and you will not share the fact that your daughter works for one of the world’s most top-secret organizations. Is that clear?” The Director narrowed her eyes at the stunned man, who could only nod numbly.
“Yes, ma’am.”
Mearing tensed before taking another calming breath.
If there was one thing she hated most in this world, it was being called ‘ma’am’. It was such a condescending term, and she preferred to use it on others instead of others using it on her.
“Read through that thoroughly and sign at the end. Pring and cursive.” She instructed before turning to the three recruits. “You three,” she waved a hand over the trio, “you all get special treatment. Normally, only allow top soldiers and experts are allowed into the N.E.S.T organization, and only after intensive training and orientation. What you all are getting into is not a game! Men and women have lost their lives on missions. You aren’t dealing with your average terrorists or enemy soldiers…you’re dealing with some of the worst beings in the universe.”
Colin reached over and grabbed Mikaela’s hand. She squeezed him in comfort.
“These beings have no contempt for any sort of life, much less a N.E.S.T soldier’s. They’re aware of the organization and will kill you on sight-”
“Oh God…” Colin breathed. Mikaela gave him another squeeze.
“Are you all sure you’re willing to leave your civilian lives and put them on the line to fight beings that have already ravaged their home world?” Mearing stared deep into the recruits’ eyes.
Mikaela turned to her father, who looked back at her, pleading for her to reconsider the offer. She gave him a reassuring smile and a third squeeze.
‘I got this, dad…’
Mikeala met Mearing’s gaze, “With all due respect Director Mearing,” She started, bold and defiant, “our lives are already on the line, whether or not we’re part of the team.” She looked Glen and Maggie over, “With our expertise, we can help ensure that others are safe too.” The hackers beside her nodded in full agreement.
YOU ARE READING
Of This Life and the Next
FanficSam dies during the battle of Egypt, but...he doesn't wake up. There's no Primes, no walking among the Matrix...there's not even the infamous bright light at the end of the tunnel...just the brief darkness of death. And then...he was back! But somet...
