Drift Compatible

1

###San Diego Shatterdome###

The massive silhouette of the San Diego Shatterdome loomed against the dusk-lit sky, its walls a testament to human resilience and innovation. Octavia Blake, duffel bag slung over her shoulder, stepped out of the transport vehicle and took a deep breath. The air was thick with salt and steel, a potent mix that carried the promise of new beginnings.

"Welcome to the Shatterdome," she muttered to herself, feeling a strange mix of relief and anticipation. She was ready to leave her past behind.

Inside, the Shatterdome buzzed with activity. Technicians scurried about, sparks flew from welding stations, and the distant hum of Jaeger machinery filled the air. Octavia navigated the labyrinthine corridors until she found the barracks. Her bunk was a small, utilitarian space, but it was hers. She tossed her bag onto the bed and took a moment to survey her new home.

"Octavia Blake, Jaeger pilot," she said, testing out the title. It felt good.

A loudspeaker crackled to life, interrupting her thoughts. "All personnel, report to the main hall for an important announcement from General Jaha."

Curious, Octavia made her way to the main hall. The space was filled with pilots and crew, all standing in respectful silence as General Thelonius Jaha took the stage. His presence commanded attention, a man of wisdom and authority.

"Welcome to the San Diego Shatterdome," Jaha began, his voice resonant. "We stand on the front lines of humanity's fight against the Kaiju. Each of you has a crucial role to play. Together, we are stronger. Together, we will prevail."

Applause echoed through the hall. As the crowd began to disperse, Jaha's eyes met Octavia's. He gestured for her to approach.

"Octavia Blake," he said, his tone both formal and warm. "I've heard a lot about you. I believe you have what it takes to pilot one of our finest Jaegers, Gipsy Danger."

Octavia's heart skipped a beat. "Yes, sir. Thank you, sir."

"There's someone you need to meet." Jaha motioned to a figure standing nearby. "This is Jade Aningmiuq, your co-pilot."

Jade stepped forward, her posture rigid, her expression unreadable. She extended a hand. 

"Octavia," she said, her voice clipped and formal.

Octavia grasped Jade's hand firmly, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Looking forward to seeing if you can keep up, Aningmiuq."

Jade's gaze was steady, unfazed by Octavia's challenge. "I assure you, I can."

Octavia smirked, leaning in slightly. "We'll see about that."

Jaha watched the exchange with a knowing smile. "You'll have plenty of time to get acquainted. Combat training begins tomorrow at dawn."

Jade nodded, her demeanor unchanging. "I'll see you in training, Blake."

With that, she turned and walked away, her movements precise and controlled. Octavia watched her go, a mixture of intrigue and irritation bubbling within her. Jade Aningmiuq was clearly not someone who was easily ruffled.

As Octavia made her way back to her bunk, she couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement. This was going to be interesting.