Stormtrooper

2

"Today, is the day you prove yourselves. Today is the day you earn the title of stormtrooper."

Drill Sergeant Lamar paces back and forth before the many rows of cadets, occasionally stopping to look at one of them.

Fortunately, I was near the back, beside the other members of his squad. As far as I was concerned, his words were falling on deaf ears.

"Fail, and you will be sent home in disgrace. Even one mistake will cost you."

I yawn. "Tell us something we don't know." Beside me, I can hear the garbled snort that came from Chaffy, he is obviously trying to contain his mirth. "Just listen. It's finals day. Let him have his glory."

In recent weeks, me and Chaffy have grown a lot closer. I try to be more of a team player, Chaffy tolerates my antics better. All in all, it's a win-win.

"So get out there, and do your best. Good luck."

"Finally," I sigh. Chaffy discreetly elbows me in the ribs. "Ow! What was that for?" I hiss. That hurt, a lot.

Chaffy doesn't answer, but allows himself a small smile as we march into the cafeteria to wait. The two of us join the rest of the squad at our usual table.

Our arrival is met with nervous gazes and curt nods. I can tell, the entire squad is on edge.

"Well guys, at least we don't have to face our sergeant's ugly face anymore. It's a blessing."

Jamie and Kale manage to chuckle nervously, but that is it. Jean's staring into blank space, don't ask me why. Doc looks as serious as ever, Hertz is busy munching on an energy bar. Zero has his eyes closed.

"Hey, Zero." I wave a hand in front of his face. "You sleeping ?!"

Zero's eyes snap open and he slaps my hand away. "I was meditating, idiot."

I cradle my injured hand. "Well, jeez, cool it. I thought monks were supposed to be anti-violence or some shit like that?"

Zero glares at me. "I ain't a fucking monk. Now leave me alone."

By now, the whole squad are looking on amusedly.

"Sure, monk. I'll leave you alone."

Zero just rolls his eyes as I chuckle. The squad seems to have lightened up considerably, I reckon I might've even heard Jean snickering softly.

"Squad 457."

Ah shit. That's us.

We rise as one, the cafeteria silent. I can feel the many eyes on us as we move towards where the DS was waiting.

There are more than a few staring intently at us, so I wave sarcastically at them. "Look guys, we're celebrities!" My squadmates roll their eyes, but smile anyway.

The DS scowls at me as we approach. "If it were my choice, I'd personally fail you straight away. Be thankful it's not."

I shrug. "Is it my fault that I'm such a likeable person?"

The DS turns on his heel immediately and leads us away, but I can practically see the steam coming out of his ears. The others are grinning inwardly, I can tell.

Eventually, we reach the simulation room. The DS hands us our equipment, personally. He has a word with each of us as we pass.

It's my turn now. I take my equipment and move to leave, but a hand on my shoulder stops me. I turn around, slightly surprised.

He takes a deep breath. "245, well, good luck. I don't always approve of your antics, or your behaviour, but you're a good fighter. As for the squad, look out for them. You bring them together in a way few can."