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ODELIA SHUT THE DOOR TO HER CAR, the metallic thud of it closing seemed louder in the stillness of the early morning. She took a deep breath, staring up at the looming structure of Firehouse 118. For the first time in a long while, a flicker of uncertainty tried to worm its way into her chest, but she quickly squashed it. This wasn't fear. No, Odelia Queen didn't get scared. Not after everything she had been through. Not after the nights spent hunting criminals across rooftops and alleyways, delivering justice as Valentine.
This, however, was something else—something different. Joining the LAFD felt like stepping into a new world, a life she had chosen to keep separate from her vigilante identity. It was a challenge, but one she was determined to face head-on.
Opening the passenger side door, Odelia reached inside and pulled out her duffel bag. As she unzipped it, her eyes caught a glimpse of the items tucked inside—her purple suit, her collapsible bow, an array of high-tech gadgets, all of them part of the life she led when the city slept. The sight of them made her lips twitch into a small, secretive smile. This part of her would always be there, just beneath the surface. But today, Odelia Sallow was the name she'd wear, not Valentine. She closed the bag, slung it over her shoulder, and straightened the LAFD shirt she wore, smoothing her fingers over the fabric.
Her black boots clicked softly against the marble floor as she entered the firehouse, the scent of fresh coffee and the distant sound of voices filling the space. Her entrance didn't go unnoticed. A few curious eyes turned her way, lingering just long enough to size up the new recruit.
"Odelia Sallow."
A deep, calm voice called her name, and Odelia turned to find herself face to face with Bobby Nash, Captain of the 118. He was the only person who knew the full extent of her arrangement and the reason behind her chosen last name. His kind yet observant gaze met hers as he extended a hand, welcoming her to the firehouse.
"Welcome to the Los Angeles Fire Department," Bobby greeted, his voice steady and reassuring.
Odelia paused for a beat, her eyes flicking down to his hand before meeting his gaze again. She returned the handshake with a firm grip, her smile small but genuine. "I'm glad to be here," she replied. It wasn't just a line; she meant it. This new chapter in her life felt right, even if the lines between Odelia Sallow and Valentine were more blurred than ever.
Just as she released Bobby's hand, two more firefighters approached. One was a tall, confident woman with a warm but curious expression, while the other was a shorter man with an easy smile that instantly made Odelia feel a bit more at ease.
"Hey, Bobby," the woman spoke first, her sharp eyes quickly sizing Odelia up. "Who's this?"
"This is Odelia Sallow," Bobby said, turning to introduce her. "She's our newest firefighter here at the 118. Odelia, meet Hen Wilson and Chimney Han."
Hen stepped forward with a broad grin, extending her hand. "Nice to meet you, Odelia. Welcome to the team."
Odelia shook Hen's hand, feeling the warmth and strength in her grip. "Thank you," she replied, her voice steady, though inside she was taking stock of the situation, just as she always did when meeting new people.
