“Well that’s not much of a tactic,” Rachel sighed, speaking more to herself than to Sandy. No wonder the young woman had trust issues. Even if there wasn’t much of a choice, given Sandy’s power set, falling back on a lie to placate a Super was always a risky move, and it would result in damaged relationships between them and Regiment for the rest of their entwinement. And if SEA didn’t pass—who knew how long that would really be?
While her latter remark wasn’t uttered in a threatening manner, per se, Sandy’s confession of disliking needles carried a note of attempted menace. Rather than press that issue, Rachel merely replied, “I don’t blame you. Needles are horrendous.”
Rachel watched the young woman force herself to sit up and face her. Every movement – it looked like a struggle. But Rachel didn’t push. She merely waited, maintained an even gaze, and absorbed what she could about Sandy Jameson through quick, snap judgements; she was defiant, clearly, but also determined. That was admirable, and something that Rachel could work with.
“My job is to train you,” she said frankly. “To make sure that you can survive and excel when – or if – you go on missions organized by the agency and assure that you’re not using your abilities to intentionally cause yourself, or others, harm. And while you are here, as a member of my unit, it’s my job to be your advocate in matters of your health and well-being.”