Damaged Goods Chapter 3: Range Day!

Damaged Goods - Chapter 3: Range Day!

>Everyone knows that feeling
>The one where you awake on your own, where any position you choose is comfy
>Where you are not hot or cold
>Where you have no worries or concerns
>Just pure bliss
>These are the kind of mornings every person deserves
>Yet, you know it cannot last forever

>One after the other, your legs swing over the bedside
>For a moment, you consider falling back into the mattress if only to live in that blissful state for another minute
>But you know it would be in vain
>Your body sounds off a in protest, crackles and pops as you stretch in an attempt to wring out the morning drowsiness

>As your senses all wake up, the urge to clean yourself up grows, yesterday's clothing now clinging to your body
>The slightly greasy feeling of a day passed without shower
>Time to change that
>Gathering some fresh clothes, you  hear rustling coming from the bed

>*yawwwwwn*

>Stirring from her hibernation, Shelly’s head pops out of the blankets, one eye still closed; hair an absolute mess
>Evidence of drool on the side of her face

“Well gooooooood mornin’ sleeping beauty!”
>Before “beauty” even left your mouth, the pillow was airborne
>The pillow, which misses you by a few feet
“...and I’m supposed to trust that aim if someone breaks in?”
>”Keep it up and maybe I just won’t fire at all.”
>All you can do is chuckle as you finish collecting the day's clothing

>Plopping down, the Mossberg retreats back under the blankets
>*Muffled* “I’m never going to sleep on the floor again.”
“Yeah, that's what you think…”
>”Hmm?”
“ Nothing.”
>”Sure…”

Picking up the pillow, you make sure to deliver a well aimed shot at where her head should be, before retreating into the bathroom

>”You mother fu-”

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8:48 AM

>It’s nice to go through the Three S’s (shower, shit and shave) without needing to rush for once
>But you didn’t want to take too much time, today is really meant for the girls after all

>Leaving the bathroom, you find Shelly still wrapped up in blankets on the bed
“You’re going to miss breakfast if you don’t get up.”
>”Ugghhhhh...  if it’s you making it, am I really missing anything…?”
>You like to make breakfast for the girls on range days as a part of their “special treatment”
>Anna deserves every break she can get  as well
“Come on, it's never THAT bad. Come on, up and at it!”
>”Err, yeah, you go ahead.. I’ll be out in a minute.”

>Not gonna happen
“Hard way then, huh?”
Grabbing the corners of the blankets…
“One…”
>”Anon”
“Two…”
>”Seriously, I-”
“THREE!”

>Pulling with all your might,the blankets come tumbling off the mattress… with Shelly still wrapped in them
“Damn, you’re being stubborn to...day....” your sentence trailing off.

>Shelly is on the floor, clutching the blanket to the top of her chest with her right hand, her left keeping it wrapped around her waist
>A face of pure embarrassment lit up bright red

“...a-are you…?”
>*shakes her head up and down vigorously*
“...and you were like that all night…?”
>Her face only turning a deeper red color
>Looking like she just had their deepest secret screamed to the world
“Ah... “
>”...”
“I’ll, uhh... see you at breakfast then.”

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>You slip out of the room, closing your door behind you as quickly as possible
>A strong scent of fried batter and salty meat immediately draws your attention
>Oh damn it Anna…

>You make your way into the kitchen, only to find Anna in the midst of cooking breakfast
>Pancakes on the griddle and bacon in the pan
>Only she is not in her normal dress and coat, but wearing a loose fitting pair of lounge pants and a plain white tee
>Her long chestnut hair let down, stopping just over her bottom

>”Oh, morning Anon, I-”
“You know I don’t expect you to make breakfast every morning… especially on range days.”
>”I know, bu-”
“Even if it isn’t YOUR range day, you still deserve to relax.”
>”I know… but I wanted too” She says putting on that warm smile
>Her hair swaying side to side as she turns back to the stove
>it is only then that you notice a severe lack of everyone else
“Where is everyone?”
>”The Twins and Julie are in the garage loading up magazines, and Kat is on the porch smoking I think…” she says, still diligently working away
“Just us in here then…?”
>”For now.”

>Privacy has somewhat become a thing of the past since your collection has grown this large
>Time alone, especially with Anna has become a thing of the past
>This is a rare opportunity…

>Stepping up behind, you wrap your arms around her, drawing her in, resting your chin on her shoulder
>A small surprised squeak escaping her lips
“...thank you Annabelle…” you say, softly placing a kiss on her cheek
>She reaches up with her free hand and grasps your arms, leaning her head against yours
>An all too familiar scent of roses filling your nose
>Just as she starts to turn to you, the distinct sound of a door knob turning breaks the silence, causing you both to about jump out of your skin

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>Out comes Shelly, strolling out of the bedroom, wearing her usual attire
>Khaki short shorts and a black tank top
>Short hair pulled back in a ponytail, bangs hanging off to the sides
>Barefoot of course
>“Morning” she says to no one in particular

“Morning”, you return in an attempt to regain your composure.
>”So who are you all takin’ out today?”
>She seems to be ignoring what happened just minutes ago quite well
“Well, this time it's going to be the Twins, Ellie, Julie, and of course the new girl.”
>”Ah, so the pistol cre- wait, why Julie... wasn’t she just out last time?” asked Shelly, a hint of jealously peeking through
“She had a stuck casing on her first mag, remember? She only got 6 shots off last trip”
>”Mmm…”
“I just think it’s fair.”
>”Yup”
>I really need to figure out how to get some shells through her...

>”Breakfast is ready! Anon, can you go and grab the others? And Michelle, if you could help with plates.”
>”Yeah yeah yeah…”

>Approaching the garage you can hear giggles and rustling metal
*KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK*
“Ladies, breakfast is ready! Make sure to wash up before eating, I don’t need lead all over my table!”
>”Coming!”
>Good enough

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>Heading out the front door, you find Katya nursing a cup of coffee, extinguished cigarette butt still between her fingers
“Morning” you say cheerfully, sitting down next to her
>”Yup…”
“Someone's awfully quiet. Late night?”
>”Just a bit.”
>Pulling out the crumpled pack, she retrieves her last cigarette
“Sure you wanna smoke that now? What else will you do all da-”
>”Anon?”
“...Yes?”
>”Do you think the new girl is ready for the range?”
>That came out of nowhere
“I think we’ve made a lot of progress… A range day will do her some good.”
>”Oh yeah? How’d my first range day with you go again?”

>Double feeds, stuck cases, Geist induced flinching…
>She was a blubbering mess by the end of the day

“What, would you have rather I not given you a chance?”
>”No Anon… I just-” pausing to light up her last cig
>Just be careful with her today… I know you think she is ready, but don’t push her.”
>I hate playing these games
“Is there something you’d like to tell me Kat” you say, obviously agitated
>She takes a long drag, the ash tip growing considerably
>”I just know damaged goods when I see ‘em.” she says solemnly

>You let out a long sigh

“Everyone of you had some issues adjusting, but I never gave up.”
>You run a hand over her head, letting one of her pointed ears run between your fingers
>Katya making a half hearted attempt to swipe it away
“Each and every one with your own quirks and rough edges, but that has never deterred me.”
“I’ll make it work, like I always have, okay?”
>”...okay.”
“Just have a little faith… and cigarettes, those never hurt.”
>You see a hint of a smile creep up on her
>”Speaking of which…”
“I’ll grab you another pack on the way home.”
>There’s that smile

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>Everyone is gathering in the kitchen, lining up to get their fill
>All but one

>Stepping into the shop, you see Sophie still curled in the corner, wrapped in the fleece blanket
>She appears to be asleep, but is moving slightly, quietly mumbling
>Squatting down, you place a hand on her shoulder, giving her a gentle shake

>”Hey, Sophie, today's the big day”
>Nothing
>Shaking her a bit more
“Soooooophieeeee. Wakey wa-”
>In one smooth motion she grabs your wrist, twisting your arm over into a partial lock
>Steely blue eyes full of hatred

>Jesus, she is strong
“Agh…-fuck... Whoa now girl… it's just me.” you mutter in a poor attempt to hide your discomfort

>Those eyes locked in on you grow softer as she seems to comes back to reality
>Realizing what she she doing, your arm is quickly released
>Oh thank god…
>Hateful eyes seemingly turning to fear and sorrow at what she has done

>”A-anon, I...didn’t mean...” tears starting to choke her up
>Pulling in her knees tightly, she hides her face in them
“I know, I know” you say, placing a hand back on her shoulder
“Nightmare?”
>*nodding*
“Do you want to talk about it?”
>”No…”
“We all have them, don't worry about it.”

>Sitting down on the floor, you scoot up next to her, leaning against the wall
“You know what would make you feel better?”
>A muffled ”Hmmm?” in response
“Anna’s pancakes, they're about as close to heaven as you can get down here, there's bacon too.”
>Now visible, her face tells of obvious confusion
>You've never had to explain pancakes before…
“Just trust me they're really tasty, especially if you like sweets. The bacon helps to balance it out too.”
>”More food, so soon?” her eyes grown wide
“Of course, everyone typically eats breakfast  dinner around here. Everyone usually skips lunch, but you're more than welcome to it if you'd like.”

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>Her whole world looks like it was turned upside down
“Of course it won't always be so grand as last night, but Anna has yet to dissapoint… what you need to watch out for is when I step in the kitchen.” giving her a nudge and a wink
>A small grin forming on her face

“So think you're ready to meet some of the girls?”
>”I don't know Anon…”
“I promise they won't bite.”
>”...”
“Ah...that was a joke… anyway, you're going to have to meet them soon anyway since we are going to the range together, might be over some good food, right?”
>Still no response

>Standing up, you reach out and offer her your hand.
“And I’ll be right there with you the whole time.”
>Slender, pale hands slide out from beneath the blanket, grasping your own
>Hoisting herself up

>Sophie takes in a deep breath
>”Okay, let’s go.”

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>Grabbing the knob, you turn to Sophie once more, giving her a reassuring smile
>Opening the door, the sound of knives and forks from the kitchen echo down the hall
>Stepping out, you wait for Sophie, who is now paused in the threshold
“Just follow me, okay?”
>Nodding, she takes her first step from the shop since arriving
>The degraded soles of her patrols boots scraping along the floor beneath her
>Maybe I should at least get her some new shoes tonight…

>Edging closer to the kitchen, you can hear Sophie’s breathing begin to quicken ever so slightly
>A hand gripping the back of your shirt
“Sophie... I promise you’ll be fine.”
>”...”
“We don’t have to do this if you don’t wa-”
>”I do… I just… need a minute...”
>Her breathing labored, but steady

>Although her eyes are leveled at your chest, her gaze seems to look beyond it
>She doesn’t seem nervous or scared, she just… isn’t here right now
>Reaching out, you place your hands on her shoulders, giving them a small squeeze
“Still with me?” you say in a hushed tone
>Not breaking her gaze, her hands reach up and feel for your own, grasping gently
>Guess you’ll just have to wait this out…

>With a sudden inhale, she blinks rapidly, trying to regain her composure
>”S-sorry”, she said, her hands now quivering
“Sophie...yo-”
>”Anon.” a sudden air of confidence… maybe arrogance in her voice
>”I’m fine… I can do this.”, some anger lingering
>This isn’t really a side of her you have seen.


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>In a few long strides, you finally make it to the dining room
>Sophie in tow
>”Anon you need to get some of these, Anna did a rea-” Julie began, suddenly startled by the sight of the stranger
>The sudden silence catching everyone’s attention

“Everyone, I’d like you to meet Sophie. She is a Beretta M92FS.” you say, very matter-of-factually ”But more importantly, she is the newest member of our family.”

>You look over your shoulder to make sure Sophie is still there
>Luckily, she is, her arms straight at her sides, eyes facing forward
>Almost like she is at attention

>Dead. Silience.
>Fuck me, someone please say somet-

>”Pleased to meet you Sophie! I’m Anna, Anon’s 1903A3.” she says, sounding rather rehearsed
>Thank you Anna…
>”I’m Michelle, Mossberg 500, and  Anon’s favorite.”, crooked smile creeping across her face
“Hilarious. Who’s next?”
>”I’m Sally---and Sarah! Anon’s Smith and Ruger revolvers!” in near perfect sync
>That will never not be cute…
>”I’m Julie, Anon’s M16A2.” she says rather proudly, just before-
>”Clone...M16A2 CLONE, just like me”
>”Why does that matter Kat?! I can still shoot burst fire just like the real thing!”
>”Yeah, but you never served.” Kat says coldly

“Really guys...right now?”

>”She started-!” hollars Julie
“And I’m ending it! You, loud mouth, you’re up.”
>“I’m Katya, Anon’s Krinkov CLONE... Nice to meet you Sophie.”
>Right…

>”And I’m Ellie the LCP!!” she says moments before stuffing more pancakes into her mouth

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“Whelp, that's everyone in the three ring circus that is my… our home. Hope the freak show didn’t scare you too bad.”
>”Jerk!” The Twins retorted
“Joking…”

>Just as normal conversation and eating started to pick back up

>”N-nice to meet you all.” Sophie stammers out, body a bit more relaxed
>”You should get something to eat before you head to the range” says Anna. “Let me get you a plate.”

>Before Anna can even stand, Ellie, having polished off her plate, shoots out of her seat
>”I got it! Come on Sophie, I’ll help you!” Ellie says, hopping over to Sophie

>”Err… sure, lets~gwah!”
>Ellie grabs Sophie by the hand pulling her towards the kitchen to get her own seconds
>”Anna’s pancakes are AMAZING! You’ll never be able to have Anon’s after you’ve had these.” Ellie’s voice trailing off as they leave the room
>Sophie looking back at you over her shoulder all the while

>”Hehe, ahh, maybe I should go in there and make sure Ellie doesn’t go overboard…” Anna says nervously, excusing herself to the kitchen

>Leaning back in her chair
>”So, you finally got the new girl to leave her cave, eh?” Shelly says sadistically
“It’s Sophie…”
>” Yeah whatever. I’m just surprised that you did SOMETHING right for once.”
>The hell did I do?
“Someone’s salty… wake up on the wrong side of the bed by some chance?
>It takes her a second to get it… but soon enough her face begins turning red
>Under her breath ”Asshole…”
“Say something?”
>”Yeah, I said Ass-...what are you staring at??”

>Katya has apparently been spectating this whole time.
>An ear flicking in what you could only guess is amusement
>”You guys are idiots…” she says, taking another sip of coffee

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>Emerging from the kitchen with Sophie, Anna is carrying two plates loaded with golden stacks of pancakes and bacon
>Ellie holding her own
>”Sophie, you can sit herrrre, and Anon, I got your plate too!” Anna says, placing the plate next to Sophie’s

“Thanks Anna.” you say, making your way around the table
>Sophie waits for you to sit before she takes her own seat

“Hey, dig in, I guarantee you’ll love it.” thrusting a fork into your own stack

>Nodding, she grabs her own fork taking a few cautionary pokes
>Anna watching eagerly for her reaction as she starts to grab empty plates from the table

>Whispering now
“Sorry about Ellie, she gets a bit excited on range days.”
>Damn, these are exceptionally good today…
“She should calm down a bit after a few magazines… Sophie?”
>Fork hanging in her mouth, Sophie’s steely eyes are locked in on her plate

“...Sophie?” you say, waving a hand in front of her face
>”…”
“Soph-?”
>”T-these are….”
“...?”
>”Incredible…!”
>A huge smile forming across her face as she starts digging in even more furiously than the night before
“Ha. Told ya you’d like it.” you say returning her smile

>An awfully please looking Anna strutting about back to the kitchen
>I don’t even have to open my mouth, she already knows what I would say
>She has always known
>Thank you, Annabelle...

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>Two helpings later, a very satisfied Sophie twirls her fork over the plate, drawing patterns in what little syrup remains
>This has to be the most relaxed you have seen her since she arrived
>Still, you wonder what is going through her head right now

>”Done with that?” Anna says pointing to the empty plate
>”S-sure...but I ca-”
>”Don’t worry!” She say scooping up the dish before heading back to the kitchen
>”...thanks…”

>Admittedly, her social skills could use some more work

>”Uhh, Anon? Would you mind if I went back to the shop for a little bit?” Sophie whispers
“Erm, sure...what for?”
>”I want to make sure I’m ready for the target practice today”

>What could she possibly have to prep? It’s not like she has any other outfits to change into for today
>Nor does she seem like the type of Geist to worry about those things
>Maybe she just needs some alone time after meeting everyone…

“Sure, I’ll be there in a bit okay?”
>With a quick nod, she stands from the table and heads down the hall

“I think she liked your breakfast Anna” you hollar into the kitchen

>Her head peaking around the corner
>”What, did you expect anything different?” she says with a quick wink

“Think the rest of you guys will be okay today?” you say, referring to Shelly, Anna and Kat
>”Oh you don’t have to worry about us Anon, we will be fine.” Anna said, still working away
>”It's not like this is the first time we’ve had to stayed behind.” Shelly says very matter-of-factly
“I know… still though, Katya?”
“...Kat?”

>At the other end of the table, Kat is resting head head in the palm of her hands
>Eyes closed, a strip of bacon hanging out of her mouth
>Tail swishing away againsts the seat
>Salty meat may be the only thing Katya truly loves in life…

>I’m sure she will be fine…


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>Usually after large breakfasts, the girls would sit around and chat for awhile
>But there were far more important things to worry about on range day

>Julie had already left to get ready in your bathroom since the Twins were already hogging the main one
>All the while, Ellie is scrambling around to ready herself

>”Sarah! Sally! My braid is coming undone!” yelled Ellie from the living room
>“We’re getting dressed!” came a distant, synchronized reply
>”But I need help now!!” Ellie howled

>To most Geists, going to the range is meant only to bond more with their shooter, and of course to satisfy their own primal urges to shoot
>But to some, it is a bit more of a social event, a chance to catch up with other Geists they know
>And show off a bit of course
>AR’s in particular like to treat it as a fashion show, flaunting their latest accessories and custom parts
>Some are even resistant to shoot, worried about dirtying their outfits
>Instinct always wins out in the end however

>”Mo...Miss Anna!”
>Nice save kid…
>”Can you help me wi-”
>”I’m busyyyyyy” came Anna’s melodic reply from the kitchen
>”Uggghhhhhhhh.”

>You can recall when Ellie first joined the family,
>The teasing she got for accidentally calling Anna “Mom” a few times lasted for months
>That didn’t stop her from treating Anna like she was really her mother, though
>Luckily, Anna didn’t mind… Ellie needed a mother figure, and she willingly played the part

>*sigh* ”Okay ya little brat, I’m coming I’m coming...” said Shelly finally standing from the table
>An excited “Yay!” squeaking from the living room

>Shelly was by no means as good as the Twins when it comes to hair, but she was good enough to satisfy Ellie for now

>”Just...erg- hold still, damn it!”
>”Sorry!”

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>While everyone else is busy getting ready, you decide it is a good time to gather what little ammo you have for Sophie from the garage
>You had picked up 3 boxes of brass cased in anticipation of getting your first 9mm months ago
>First timers always get the good stuff
>As much as you hate to admit it, most of the stuff you run through the girls is steel cased, with the exception to Anna
>But the other girls don’t need to know about that…
>You wouldn’t be able to afford to take them out as much as you do otherwise, which still doesn’t feel like it is nearly as often as you’d like

>Having gathered the meagre supply, you head back towards the shop to check on the Beretta
>The door completely shut
>Weird…

*Knock* *knock* *knock*

“Sophie? Can I come in?” you say trying to prevent walking in on a half dressed Sophie
>”Yes.” she says plainly
>What is that girl doing in there?
>Opening the door with your free hand, you step in

>Sophie’s back is to you, leaning over the workbench inspecting something under the lamp
>Her jet black hair brushed over her left shoulder revealing a rather pronounced scar across the back of her neck
>Running diagonally, it almost reaches the base of her right ear, stopping just above the collar of her tank top
>None of the marks on her frame or slide would warrant such a huge scar though…
>So where did it come from?
>What kind of hell have you been through Sophia…?

>Approaching the bench, you can only guess what she is studying

“Find another book  that caught your eye or some...thing…”
>All words escape you

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>Laying atop the bench is a disassembled Beretta 92fs
>Each piece laid out in perfect rows, almost mimicking a schematic
>Sophie holding the firing pin, slowing rotating it in her fingers
>This isn’t just any Beretta on the bench however…
>Those scratches, wear marks and dings...

>This is Sophie.

>It isn’t completely impossible for a Geist to manifest its’ gun form while maintaining its human appearance, but it sure as Hell wasn’t common
>The amount of discipline and strength it takes is immense, taking quite the toll it takes on the Geist's’ spirit
>You have only witnessed it once before

>Years ago, when it was only Anna and you at the old apartment
>You were sick with the flu; down for the count on the couch
>Yet you  can still remember the sound of the door giving way as it was kicked in

>You had never seen such ferocity in her before, her rifle form suddenly appearing in her hands, white knuckling it
>She was frightening, a whirlwind of hatred
>Fire in her eyes
>Screaming curses at the intruder, rifle raised
>She probably broke half of his ribs with that butt-stroke

>It was one of the most beautiful displays of power and control you had ever witnessed

>Still, she was drained for nearly a week afterwards
>Even having experienced far more than the rest of your Geist’s, going through a World War… Anna is no slouch

>But to have yourself disassembled and laying out so nonchalantly…
>She doesn’t seem to be putting any effort into it at all

“Sophie…how…?” are the only words you can manage
>”W-what?” she stammers out awkwardly, breaking her attention from the pin
“How are you…?” unable to find the words, you simply motion at the Beretta lying on the bench
>Looking back at you puzzled, you can tell she honestly has no idea what is going on
>”Did I do something wrong?”

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“No! No… of course not. Just… not everyone can do...that.”

>Her face still shows nothing but confusion

>”You mean...this?” she says, pointing to the bench
“Yes, exactly. Not all of the girls here can do that, let alone Geist’s elsewhere.”
>”Oh…should I stop?” she says solemnly
“No, it’s fine. Just, it might be best not to show it off to anyone else for now, okay? Think of it as a secret between us.”
>”...even if it’s an emergency?”

>You pause for a moment…

“An emergency…? Oh, right…” you say, still fumbling for words

>Would she even know what to consider an emergency? You can’t have her holding people at gunpoint on a whim
>Yet you know you can’t flat out tell her “no” either...

“I’d trust you to know when to do such a thing, Sophie”

>A light smile appears across her face
>”Thanks Anon… I’m glad you think so.”

>With a wave of her hand, the Beretta appears on the bench reassembled before vanishing into thin air
>You can’t help but stare

>”Anon?

“Hmm?”

>Taking a step closer to you

>”I won’t let you down today. I’ll do my best for you... I promise…”

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>Steely blue eyes gaze at you with confidence you have yet to see from the Beretta
>”I promise”, a phrase you have used so often, yet when coming from her, it feels so different
>These words carry weight for Sophie

“I know you won’t.” you say, returning that confidence

>Her smile grows a little larger

>”Hey, Anon… I-”

>The door to the shop is suddenly thrown open, slamming into the stop
>Yup, it's Ellie...

>”ANON! We're ready to go to-” Ellie begins

>In a flash, Sophie had managed to put herself between you and the door
>Standing at the low and ready, one hand back, grasping your arm
>On the guard

>”...the range.” she finishes, rather meekly

“Ha… didn't we talk about knocking first Ellie?” you say in a poor attempt to diffuse the tension
>”Sorry… I’m just excited.” Ellie says sadly, a frown forming on her face

>Sophie’s grip on your arm loosens up as she snaps out of whatever… that was.

“Well you should be excited! How about you grab Julie and The Twins and start loading up the Jeep? We will be out shortly.”

>”Uh, ah okay!” she exclaims, scampering off

…

“You okay there Sophie?”
>Y-yeah, just old habits…” she says turning back to you
>Her face flushed red with embarrassment
>”But before you ask… I'm ready for today. You don't need to keep worrying, Anon.”

>She can read your face like an open book
>That's what Anna has always said that about you at least

“Then let's get going.”

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>Julie was carrying out the last of the gear out the door just as you left the shop, Sophie in tow behind you
>Unlike many AR’s, Julie doesn't get all gussied up for the range, instead she likes to keep things as “Mil-spec” as possible
>Green fatigue pants and a beige t-shirt adorn the M16A2 clone, dirty blond ponytail bobbing with each step she takes

>Unfortunately, her style of dress has drawn some attention from Geists who have been deployed in various combat zones, often claiming it as “stolen valor”, much to the embarrassment of their shooters
>These comments seem to come especially from those Geists who have served out west on the border with the Anti-States

>Operation “Sea to Shining Sea” was successful in reclaiming New York, New Jersey, as well as the other smaller Anti-States on the east coast
>However the campaign halted on the border of what used to be California, western Oregon and Washington, after the threat of nuclear escalation became too great

>A demilitarized zone (DMZ) was set up along this border, most of which is monitored by drone, although some manned stations are scattered along the great expanse

>The remaining Anti-States, now known as The Pacific Territories to the Pro-States, have lived independently from the rest of the country ever since
>Heavy economic support by China to the Anti-States has been suspected, but never proven, and fervently denied by the Chinese government

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“Heading out, I’ll be back in a few hours!” you shout

>”Be safe Anon!” Anna calls out

>”Yeah, don’t get shot.” Shelly states plainly

>“And don’t forge-”
“Your cigarettes, got it.” you say, cutting off Katya

>Stepping outside, you’re greeted by what could only be described as the perfect day.
>Sunny, upper 60’s, a slight breeze and not a cloud in the sky
>Perfect range weather

>Sophie follows closely behind you, hand shielding her eyes from the sun
>Her scars and scratches are so much more pronounced under the natural lighting
>Jet black hair blowing gently with the wind
>Taking in a deep brea-

*HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONK*

>”ANON, WE’VE BEEN WAITING!” yells Ellie from the opened hatch of the now loaded Cherokee

>Julie sitting in the front passenger seat, hand hovering over the horn

“YEAH I KNOW!” is all you are able to get out in your frustration

>Ellie is wearing a shit-eating grin as you approach the rear of the Jeep

*sigh* “You make sure that everything is packed?”

>”Yup!”

“Good” you say, placing your hand on her face, shoving her back in before closing the hatch

>A muffled “Jerk!” coming from behind the glass

>As Sophie approaches, Sarah hops out the back seat

>”Here Sophie, you can sit with us!” the Ruger says
>Her ruby red eyes beckoning Sophie into the back
>Sally still in the Jeep, patting the middle of the bench seat

>Sophies eye’s look to you for an answer
>Smiling, you give her a nod

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>You have been periodically checking the rearview mirror to make sure Sophie is doing ok
>But luckily the ride to the range has gone well so far
>Her answers have been short and sweet, but much to your surprise, Sophie has been able to keep up with The Twins idle chatter
>Usually talking about whatever catches their eye during the drive, their outfit choices for the range, or something funny that happened earlier in the week
>The Twins decided to wear matching sundresses today
>Blue and white horizontal stripes run down the knee length dresses;  beige sun hats resting in their laps
>Lucky for you (and your bank account), they are able to alter and make due with discounted clothing
>It's hard to tell they were “cheap” dresses at all

>”So, I’m getting to shoot first today...right?” Julie finally says

Normally new guns always get the first shots on a range trip, but you have to make an exception this time since Julie had a stuck case last trip

“Of course, I just hope you brought a cleaning rod and some lube this time though.” you tease
>”Could you not?!” her face going bright red
“Hey, just saying! Sure would be embarrassing if I have to field strip you on the firing line”
>A slap to the arm is her only reply, face still flush red with embarrassment
>Staring out the window pouting
>Maybe you went a bit far…

“I’m, sure you’ll be fine Julie… I shouldn’t have been feeding you such crappy ammo.”
>”...”
“... I brought brass cased stuff this time you know.”

>That caught her attention

>”... oh yeah?”
“Yeah, 62 grain too”
>”... cool” she says plainly

>She would never show it, but you know she’s excited

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>Checking the rearview once more, you see Sophie with her hands in her lap, fidgeting in place
>What made her so nervous all of a sudden…
>A bit of Sophie’s hair suddenly seems to move on its own
>How could you have forgotten…

“Ellie?”
>”Yes…?”
“Are you playing with Sophie’s hair?”
>”...no.”
“Ellie.”
>”It’s just soooooo pretty… I want to put it in braids!” the LCP whines
“You can’t ju-”
>”I-it’s okay Anon.” Sophie stammers out
>”She can if she likes.”
>”Really??” says Ellie, almost too excited

>She doesn’t know what she is getting herself into...

“Just take it easy on the poor girl...”
>”Yay!”

>With some supervision (and assistance) from The Twins, Ellie starts working the fine black hair into a set of braids
>Periodically checking the mirror, you notice Ellie has an uneasy look on her face since parting Sophie’s hair
>Oh, the scar…
>But she continues without mentioning it
>Even Ellie knows that some things are best left unsaid

>”Annnnnd DONE!” she says rather proud of herself
>”Isn’t it great Anon?”

>Lets see the damage

>A pair of braids sweep down the back of Sophie’s head, hanging just above her pale shoulders
>A few rounds of 9mm dangling from the bottom of each braid, secured by hair bands
>It’s actually done rather well

>”Does it look okay?” Sophie says in her familiar sheepish tone

>You can’t help but let out a bit of a laugh
“It’s cute.”

>Taking one last look in the mirror, you can see Sophie blushing with a small smile on her lips

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>After about 30 minutes of driving on the highway, you finally arrive at the range
>And as you expected, it is absolutely packed. No surprise for a day like today
>Especially with how popular this range is

>When compared to other ranges, this one is particularly large
>With 50 pistol stalls, enough benches for 100 rifle shooters, as well as several bays to practice 3-Gun
>There are also two additional rifle sections, one to accommodate select fire weapons
>And the “Other” range, which is usually empty
>”Other” being anti-tank weapons, or any small crew serviceable weapons that the well off enough are able to feed

>Now if only you could find a parking spot…

>”Don’t make us walk too far Anon.” Sarah whines
“We may not have much of a choice.”
>”Ugh, we don’t need our dresses getting dirty before we even shoot.” retorts Sally
>”You coooould just drop us off at the door you know.” Julie says
“You guys know the rules… “No unattended Geists”. “ you say in an exaggerated, official tone

>After a bit of circling, you finally locate an empty spot not too far from the entrance

“Alright everyone, you know the drill, grab your bags and let's ge-.”
>”RANGE TIME!!!” Ellie screams from the back
>Every.Fucking.Time...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>Circling around to the back of the Cherokee, you pop the hatch and release the little gremlin before she loses her goddamn mind
>Luckily everyone else is able to at least contain their excitement
>Sophie seems to be holding up well enough too

>Lining up like they were in a breadline, the girls waited for you to pass out their bags
>Julie is the only one who is using a range bag today, the pistols have always prefer to be a bit more stylish when they get to the range
>You have always limited them, but you still have a whole closet dedicated to those damn purses...
>They can only get away with using them since they tend to pack much lighter than your rifles

“Oh, and Sophie? This one is for you. I threw your ammo and mag in there.” you say, extending a coyote tan satchel to her
>She reaches out with little hesitation, slinging it around her chest, allowing the satchel to rest on her left hip

“Suits you well.” you say with a smile

>”Come on! Lets go lets go lets go!” Ellie yells as she grabs your hand, pulling towards the check in building
>The others in tow
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>The check in building is a flurry of activity, man and Geist alike walking about
>If this is any indicator to how busy the range is...
>Going up to one of the self service kiosks, you insert your membership tag and start the check-in process
>Damn it, wrong password…

>While fiddling with the machine, you couldn’t help but notice that it has grown noticeably more quiet since arriving
>You feel a set of slender fingers wrap around your bicep

>”A-anon?” Sophie says, pulling herself closer to you
“What is it Soph-”

>The whole room is staring at you...
>No, not at you
>Sophie

>Hushed tones and angry glances being directed towards you
>Like you are some sort of Geist abuser or something

“It’s okay… just ignore them and stick by me.” you say, trying to sound as confident as possible
>”But they look really angry…” her grip tightening
“If anything, they’re angry with me. But they’re wrong, so don’t worry about it. We will be fine.”
>”This obviously confused her more
>”Do you promise?”

>That’s weird...

“Promise…? Of course, I promise, Sophie… Nothing bad will happen” you say, maintaining eye contact with the Beretta
>Hearing this she loosens her grip, but remains attached to you

>Luckily, the others don’t seem to have taken notice, as they have been watching the range through the viewing window
>You can only hope the accusatory stares will stop once they see you with the other girls...
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>Before leaving the check in building, you make sure to toss on your ear and eyepro
>Upon opening the door, you are greeted by the wonderful smell of burning propellent
>The roaring sounds of gunfire
>And laughter of Geists (literally) having a blast

>If one wasn’t excited prior to coming here, then they sure would be soon enough

>Located directly outside of the check in building was the pistol bay, a semi enclosed area that goes out to 50 yards
>The enclosure is nice during crappy weather, otherwise it is a bit louder than what you care fo
>But that's the nature of the beast

>To the left are the stairs leading up to the rifle ranges which reach out to 1500 yards
>The select fire as well as the “Other” section is located there too, the former being our currect destination

“Come on guys, no need to dilly-dally here, you know where we are going first.” you say in a n attempt to rally the group
>”Yup!” Julie says, her pace quickening

>Not wanting to play catch-up, you hurry along with the others as well

>You couldn’t help but notice though...
>Sophie’s head has been on a swivel the entire time, you wouldn’t exactly call this anxiety though
>She feels more like a watchman, a protector
>You begin to ask yourself who is really escorting who here

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>Ascending the steps, you find that nearly the entire semi-auto section of the rifle range is filled, with only a small handful open

>”Hurry!” exclaims Julie, who is hiding her excitement very poorly at this point

>Now moving at a slight jog, you make it to the select fire section
>All of which is occupied by shooters and their Geists

>”UGGGGH, I knew this would happen!” Julie says, throwing her arms up in frustration
“We could always go down to the semi-auto section you know, its basically the same thing if I-”
>”It absolutely is NOT the same thing!” She roars back

>Well, it was worth a shot anyway…

“Looks like we have a little time to wait th-”

*KABOOM*

>FUCK

>Once again, Sophie steps between you and the noise, much more subtly this time

“What the hell was that?!” you yell as your ears slightly ring, even with earpro

*KABOOM*

>The blast nearly blowing off The Twin’s sunhats

>You finally see it over in the “Other” section

>Wait
>...is that a fucking PTRS??

>Her shooter is giggling like a maniac after every shot
>To be honest, you really couldn’t blame him, you couldn’t dream of affording one, let alone feeding it
>Her appetite must be huge…

>”Whoa!!” Ellie yells
>Even The Twins are looking on in awe
>There is an idea…

“What if you guys stuck around and watched the anti-tank rifle for awhile? I could get Sophie’s shooting in while we wait for a slot for Julie.”
>”Can we??” The Twin’s say excitedly
“Sure, but if anyone asks, Julie is your shooter, got it? Remember, no unattended Geists.” you say, giving them a wink

>”Well, okay, but you better be back here soon so I don’t lose a spot!” Julie hisses
“Yeah, yeah, don’t worry. And make sure Ellie doesn’t run off!” you holler as you begin leading Sophie back to the stairs

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>They run off to get a closer look at the anti-tank rifle

“Alrighty, just you and me.” you say, smiling at Sophie, who has been silent since leaving the check-in
>Walking back down the short flight of stairs, you start scanning the pistol bay for open stalls

>Lets see…
>At the far end of the bay are the only three remaining empty stalls

“Guess that's us, come on Sophie.”
>She nods in agreement

>The almost rhythmic sound of handgun filling the bay as you make your way across it
>Reaching the empty stall, Sophie un-slings her satchel, placing it on the bench

“You can load your own mags, right?” you say to her, trying to be mindful of your own volume
>You’ve always had a problem with yelling when wearing earpro

>Sophie nods once more, retreiving the empty magazine from the pack and begins loading
>She only has 6 rounds loaded before the range caution lights turn on

>”Cease fire, cease fire! Step away from the firing line!” the automated voice calls out through the speakers

“ You need to stay at the bench during ceasefires, but I’ll be right back, okay? Just keep loading your mag” you say in a reassuring tone
>She only returns a nod

>Everyone steps back, some guns remain on the bench, while others have changed to their Geist form, waiting for the RO to give the all clear

>”Range is cold, set up targets, stay outside the yellow lines.” calls out the robotic voice once more
>I really need to save for some private land...

>A somewhat concerned looking Sophie looks at you from beyond the yellow line as you start walking down range

>Her attitude has turned more serious since entering the range
>Yet she is still watching your every move, and those of anyone who gets near me
>She seems a bit more in her element here
>My guardian

>Grabbing your staple gun from your own bag, you head down range

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>Lifting the wooden target frame you decide to move it up to the 10 yard line, not wanting her first time out to be too challenging
>Satisfied that the base is square with your stall, you staple the circular target to the frame and begin walking back to the waiting area
>Sophie’s eyes following you as you take the walkway back to the yellow line
>Don’t worry, just another minute or so...

>Finally, the automated system calls out again
>”Firing range is hot, shooters may approach the firing line.”
>Shortly after, the sound of gunfire roars through the bay
>Here we go Sophie…

“So, are we ready?” you say as cheerfully as possible
>Locking eyes, she gives you a firm nod before turning to face the down range
>Let's do this

>Raising your hand, you place it on the back of her neck, giving her a gentle squeeze before the cold frame of the Beretta fills your grip
>Inserting the mag, you rack the slide
>The smooth as glass action offering no resistance

>Training the sights on the “X” of the target, you squeeze…
*BANG*
>Dead center
>A perfect hole remains where the “X” once was
>You know damn well that wasn’t all your doing

>Squeezing once more…
*BANG*
…
*BANG*
*BANG*
>Dead.Center.
>Holy shit Sophie…

“Atta’ girl Sophie!” you can’t help but hollar as you continue through the mag

*BANG*
*BANG*
*BANG*


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>As you begin to reach the last few shots of the mag, you can’t help but notice that the two  previously empty lanes next to you have filled up
>Looks like a couple of state officers judging by their shirts

>Without even waiting to set up fresh targets, they begin shooting at what paper is already down range
>Laughing and trying to talk loudly over the sound of gunfire

>Glock 17’s, pretty typical stuff

>Just a couple more shots
>Squeeeeeze

*BANG*

>The shot goes wild, landing outside of the circles completely
>Come on Anon, you can’t let yourself lose focus like that…

*BANG*

>The slide locking back, you don’t see any new holes on the paper
>A complete miss
>You know that wasn’t you flinching

>Dropping the mag, you set Sophie back on the bench, allowing her to revert to Geist form
>She is visibly shaken up

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“You okay there girl?” you say, placing a hand on her shoulder
>”Y-yeah… I just need a minute.” she says, glancing over to the officers
>Oh, right. Police trade-in…

“Sophie, look at me.” you say placing a hand on her cheek
“You’re with me now, you don’t have to-”
>”I’m fine Anon, just give me a minute…” she say, picking up the empty mag
>Her hands trembling as she tried to load the magazine
“Let me get it.”
>Taking the mag, you load in 5 more rounds
“We should be able to finish this out before the next ceasefire.” you say, attempting to redirect her focus to shooting

>You can’t be sure that it is working though…

“Are you sure you want to keep going? We dont ha-”
>”ANON.” she yells, obviously much louder than she intended
>”...I-I can do it. Just give me another chance…please”

>This means more to her than you could have thought
>Then again, this is her chance to prove herself, so the frustration is understandable

“...okay” you say hesitantly before reach for the back of her neck once more

>Once more, you insert the mag, rack her slide, and train the sights in on the target

*BANG*

>The shot landing about an inch off center this time
>That's a little better

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>”Fucking stuck casing again?!” yells the officer in the stall next to you as he taps and racks his Glock
>You feel the Beretta in your hands quiver

>Squeeeeeze…

>Just before the trigger breaks, Sophie flinches down hard, causing you to nearly shoot the bench

“Easy there girl…” you say, readjusting your grip on the pistol

>Starting on your next shot, Sophie again flinches, causing the Beretta to twist violently in your hands, nearly hitting the remains of the target one lane over

>”Fucking piece of shit!” the officer yells once more, now trying to  use the edge of the bench to clear his weapon
>”Dude, chill.” says the man who you only could assume is his partner
>”I swear she does this shit on purpose!” he continues
>”Maybe she likes being roughed up dude.”
>”Fuck off man.” he mumbles

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>You’re starting to think you should stop, but you don’t want Sophie to think you don't trust her…
>You can feel her quivering in your hand
>For a Geist to have that kind of input while in  gun form… she must be under a lot of stress
>Then again… it’s only three more rounds

>Squeeeeeeeze…

“Just listen to my voice Sophie… I know we can-”

>”GOD DAMNIT!!” the hotheaded officer yells once more

*BANG*

>Sophie jerks even more violently than before, causing the shot to go straight down at your feet
>Fuck
>You set Sophie down on the table, she’s done for the day

>She goes to Geist form instantly, tears running down her face, muttering frantically
“Talk to me Sophia, look at me.” you say as you place your shaky hands on her

>Adrenaline from your first ND pumping wildly

>Upon touching her she starts crying frantically, incoherent words pouring out as she pulls away from you
>Eyes staring off into space
>You can only make out a few words such as “please” and “don’t throw”
>People are beginning to stare

>Trying desperately to bring her back under control, you can’t help but yell
>”SOPHIA!!”

>Snapping too, her red, tear filled eyes look back to you, then down to the ground, slowly
>Her steely blue eyes going wide with terror...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>You’re trying to focus on her face, but it's...hard
“S-Sophie?” you stammer out with some difficulty
>Fuck when did you get so dizzy…
>Must be the adrenaline wearing off…

>All of this has been exhausting…
>You start leaning forward on the bench, putting some weight into Sophie
>Why am I so tired…
>And what is all of this red shit on the concrete…
>Ah fuck it, I need to sit down

>There is nothing behind you to sit on, but you  don’t care, and let yourself fall back anyway
>Sophie desperately trying to keep you from falling flat out

>An “OH SHIT!” is heard from your left
>”MIKE, GRAB MY BAG!!”
>The red ceasefire flashes turn on at about the same time, the speakers crackling to life
>But instead of the automated voice, a very human voice comes over it instead

>”Cease fire cease fire!!! Medical assistance needed at Pistol Bay 50!!”

>What…?
>For who…
>Hope they’re okay…

>Then you see it
>Your entire right pant leg is soaked red with blood
>All stemming from a hole in your upper thigh
>Your fingertips tingling, feeling cold, numb

>Two men rush to your side saying...something. You can hardly hear it anyway
>Their lips move, but no sound comes out

>You try and make out what they are saying…
>Female?
>Familiar?
>Femoral..?
>Ah, that must be it, leg stuff and all…

>The outline on a slender figure is back up against the shooting bench, but you can’t make out any features as your vision blurs further
>But you know, it must be Sophie, your poor, broken Beretta…

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>The men lift your injured leg, sliding something around it
>A massive jolt of pain surges through your whole body as you feel something tighten above the wound
>It’s an excruciating, biting feeling
>Like your leg was put in a vice
>But you don't really care, you’re too tired to care now...
>Darkness is swallowing up your vision, the very world around is disappearing, as everything starts to go cold

>A nap is all you need… just a short nap, and I’ll feel better…
>...I hope Anna won’t be too upset with me...

****END CHAPTER 3****