Stars Shine in Darkness

"Your cadet file is practically empty, name, age and sex, that is all the information present, care to explain?"

Persephone only shook her head.

"Didn't make those files, sir."

Lieutenant Van frowned, his sharp eyes narrowing as he studied her.

"You didn't make them, but someone did. Strange, though, that even your history prior to recruitment is nonexistent. Most cadets have at least a brief summary-family, training, prior affiliations-but yours is empty. Completely blank."

"Than care to tell me, where you're from?"

"That is classified, sir."

"Any abilities?"

"Classified, sir."

However, he received the same answer.

"What of Race?"

"Classified, sir."

He repeated under his breath, half to himself and half to her.

"This is the first time I've heard this bullshit!"

He suddenly lashed out, but Persephone, completely unfazed, lowered her head and bowed.

"Apologies, sir."

Lieutenant Van's irritation simmered beneath the surface, though he knew better than to let it show. This wasn't the first time a recruit had been evasive, but Persephone's calm, collected demeanor set her apart from the usual nervous cadets. She wasn't hiding; she was simply... untouchable.

"Apologies,"

He mimicked her tone, though his voice carried a mocking edge.

"You're not making this easy, Cadet."

Persephone continued to bow.

"Apologies."

"Stop apologising."

"Apologies."