"Your new name is Fiona Madison," Benjamin said, his tone unusually solemn as he slid a thin folder across the table to Winter. "You're from Brairwood, only daughter of a farming family. You went to Briarwood Kiddies Academy and then Briarwood High. Nothing flashy, ordinary grades, ordinary life. Perfect cover."
Winter opened the file. Inside were forged transcripts, IDs, and a recruitment notice with her new identity stamped across it. She studied each detail like her life depended on it, because it did.
Craig leaned against the wall, arms crossed, watching her. "Want me to rig you a disguise? Hair dye, colored contacts, maybe a scar? Make you less… you?"
Winter closed the folder and shook her head. "I'm good. The less I alter myself, the less chance of a slip. I just have to become Fiona."
Benjamin tapped a few keys on his laptop, pulling up a detailed timeline. "Then listen carefully. The recruitment program isn't child's play, but I've mapped it out for you. Here's what you'll face:
Firstly, processing: They'll scan IDs, check fingerprints, and run background verifications. I've spoofed the databases, you'll pass, but don't give anyone a reason to double-check. Stay quiet, stay invisible.
Next, medical exam: Vision, blood pressure, even dental records. The files will match, but keep calm. If they probe too deep, just act nervous like a first-timer or... Just stay calm.
Thirdly, fitness test: Timed run, push-ups, obstacle drills. Nothing you can't handle. Just don't outshine the others, blend in. Mediocre is safer.
Fourthly, aptitude test: Written tests for logic, mechanics, problem-solving. Again, don't ace them. Score just above average. Smart enough to pass, but not enough to draw notice.
Finally, group challenges: These are tricky. They want to see who cracks under pressure. Don't lead, don't dominate. Let others argue, you just… adapt. "
He leaned back, pushing his glasses up. "If you follow that, you'll pass unnoticed. And once you're inside, I'll guide you to the right access points. The files we need are buried in the military intelligence base and I would try to make sure your new posting would take you close."
Louisa, sprawled on the couch, let out a dramatic sigh. "So basically, she has to be average. That's hilarious. The least average person I know playing a background character in her own story."
Winter gave her a side glance, lips twitching faintly but not quite forming a smile.
Benjamin ignored Louisa and continued, "Everything's set. The recruitment bus leaves Briarwood station in two days. After that, you're on your own until you're in."
The room fell into a heavy silence. Even Louisa sat up straighter. It wasn't just another mission this time, it was Winter stepping alone into the lion's den.
"So…" Louisa finally broke the silence. "Is it time?"
Winter nodded once. "Yes."
The moment cracked something in Layla. She sniffled, suddenly throwing her arms around Winter with surprising force. "I'm going to miss you."
Winter froze for a second, then hugged her back gently.
"Can we not act like she's about to die?" Louisa muttered, rolling her eyes. "It's a recruitment program, not a firing squad." But no one paid her any attention.
Deborah hugged Winter next, whispering, "Be careful. Call if you need me, no matter what time."
Even Craig, usually the stoic one, stepped forward. He didn't hug, but bumped his shoulder lightly against hers. Winter answered with the same gesture, their quiet way of saying what neither voiced aloud.
Finally, all eyes fell on Louisa. She crossed her arms, scowling like a cat forced into a bath. "Fine," she grumbled. "I'll hug. But reluctantly." She pulled Winter into her arms, squeezing tighter than she meant to.
When they separated, Winter gathered her documents, Uncle giggles and stuffed them into her small bag. The weight of the new identity pressed against her chest. Fiona Madison. Farmer's daughter. Ordinary. Forgettable.
But behind that mask, Winter's eyes burned with a fire that couldn't be extinguished.