Gamma-4, and the story of Adam Davidson

Chapter 7 The Plan P1 [ Year: January 2712 ]

"Let's discuss the plan," Briggs says reassuringly, standing amidst the Titans in the Titan bay. Their low, continuous hum fills the room, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The Titans cast long shadows across the floor as they keep watch.

Adam feels their gazes on him. As he glances at BT and MOB, who seem to be watching him closely. He can't help but feel nervous as his anxiety starts to knot in his stomach. I don't fit in here at all.

"First up is the shooting range," Briggs continues, her tone crisp. "You'll demonstrate your skills in aiming, reaction time, and accuracy. The fourth part will be a test that combines all three."

He takes a deep breath, trying to focus on her words. His mind races, struggling to grasp what Briggs is saying as negativity swirls around him. Focus, Adam, just focus. He glances around, seeing multiple nods and friendly smiles directed to him.

"Afterwards, we'll head towards the VR training area. This part is to demonstrate your movement, reaction time and some aspects of active combat," Briggs explains, pointing towards the corridor that leads to the training area.

Adam's gaze follows the direction Briggs pointed, his anxiety and nervousness growing as he mentally prepares for the tests. Self-doubt creeps in, tightening around his chest. The fear of revealing his weaknesses looms over him like a dark cloud.

He jumps slightly as he feels the hand of Lastimosa on his shoulder. "Don't worry too much, Adam. I know this is a lot to take in, and it's certainly rare to be here with everyone around. I can feel your tension in your shoulder, relax." Lastimosa says, soothingly.

Adam sighs heavily, trying to release his tension out as he fidgets with his hands and sways slowly from side to side. His nervousness makes it hard to focus. He looks at Briggs, Whose gaze softens as she notices his discomfort. Her voice is encouraging, but Adam can't shake the feeling of his self-doubt.

"Do you have any questions? Is there anything you're unsure about? As everyone has said before, there is no shame in asking for help or saying that you have reached your limit."

Adam nods. "I understand... but I need to do this," he replies, his voice slightly shaky, a strange undertone raising a few eyebrows as he glances at the others.

He takes a deep breath, his stomach twisting with the lingering feeling of uselessness. Focus, just focus, he tells himself, but it's like trying to catch smoke with bare hands.

"But... I'm ready" he stammers, his voice wavering like a heartbeat.

"Would you prefer your own gun or one of ours?" Lastimosa asks, his voice still soothing.
"If possible, my own," Adam replies, glancing at Lastimosa.
"Alright" Lastimosa says, nodding towards Adam before turning to Anderson "Anderson, you mind grabbing it? We'll meet at the shooting range."

"Alright, now that we've discussed the plan, let's get this show on the road," Briggs says taking the lead. Adam follows Lastimosa, anxiety knotting in his stomach.

As they walk down the hallway, Adam tries to force a calm expression onto his face. Just breathe, he thinks.

As they approach, Briggs gestures for Adam and Lastimosa to enter the range.

Entering the empty shooting range, Adam feels a rush of anxiety. The targets stand silently, flanked by sandbags and movable objects that form an obstacle course in his mind. This isn't just practice-this is a test. I have to trust myself, to show that I can do this!

He glances back at the door, watching the others talk. Their expressions become more serious as they occasionally look his way. He overhears bits of conversation before Droz and Davis leave, their tones shifting between serious and concerned.

They must be talking about me.