A Hunter's Pride

One

I still can't believe he picked me to fly this mission. It's been months since I've last done a scouting run, and I just don't trust myself. Why me... Why not someone else?
"You cannot think like that David. You can do this. If anyone can, it is you!" A soft voice echoed through my head before my Ghost; Shade, materialized before my tired eyes. It's 3 in the morning and I have yet to get a wink of sleep.

"How do you know, Shade? How do you know I won't mess up like last time? I was lucky. I only lost an arm last time!" I raised my voice and Shade seemed taken aback, even hurt. "I'm sorry bud. I'm just anxious is all. I didn't mean to shout."

His gaze softened and he did a little dip in the air to symbolize nodding." I understand David. Try to get some rest. Big day tomorrow." Shade vanished once more with a flash of yellow light and I layed back in my bed, staring at the ceiling.

He's right. I can't let this get to me. "Shade, lights out." The lights clicked off and I was drowned in darkness.

The next morning came early. I sat up slowly, my back muscles aching and throbbing in protest. "Where's Alessia?" I seemingly asked the air, and the voice responded in my head.
She is just outside speaking to Glitch.

"Thanks Shade."

Of course David. Now, don't keep her waiting. And just like that, the voice was gone. My thoughts once again returning.

I groaned in pain as I stood up from my sitting position and walked over to my desk, where my metal arm lay plugged into a data pad. I gripped the cool metal, it sending chills up my body, and raised it to my elbow, where it clicked into place. I gave my fingers a little wiggle to be sure it was working, and finished securing my armor. Time for breakfast.