Training Day ((PM for inclusion, attn: Carol))

Alec stood motionlessly in the center of the training warehouse. He'd set up high spotlights, both ranged and mêlée targets, and moved the crates into a pattern that would allow for both excellent cover and adequate seating. This first group was a split - several merc hopefuls, a likely pair of scouts, a tech and a scientist. Twelve bodies in all for this newbie class. Three of the hitters were human, which still bothered him some. He let them all know the chances of survival in certain situations, advised them on the use of blunt objects versus cutting edges, and told them to wear at least leather to help reduce the chance of bleeding. Well, it was on their heads if they bought it.

As the timer turned down, several of the spots shut off, leaving him illuminated in the dark room. Gleaming in his white leather training attire, he shone like a marble statue through the darkness. It also made him look a little taller. No...Alec wasn't above using theatrics, and he knew it'd look impressive and creepy. Perfect.

As the doors swung open, he watched them file in. Most managed to keep anything from crossing their faces, but there were a few choice reactions. One looked for the prime cover areas and any exits before looking to Alec. Another was fully taken in by the scene and walked in with his mouth gaping...Alec had to make sure he didn't laugh, and managed. The tech looked straight to the wiring and lighting on the roof. There were certainly a couple that would do well. Offhandedly, he wondered if Carol would decide to watch. He noticed the burliest of the three humes wasn't wearing the protective gear. Bad move. He'd be getting an object lesson in "following directions" right off, then a trip to the infirmary and re-enrollment with the next batch of applicants. Stern faced, Alec began. Setting the subvocal mic to the surround speakers was a stroke of genius - everyone reacted well to his voice whispering from behind their shoulders, seated on their crates. Some even turned to look.

"Welcome, new blood, to Tacharan. I am Alec, the Trainer. I'll be doing your initial schooling. All of you were given some instructions beforehand. Does anyone have any questions?"

There was a lot of clearing of throats, some shifting, and no questions. Frowning, Alec continued.

"The only stupid questions are the ones that aren't asked. Now, that said, does anyone have anything they need to ask before we begin in earnest?"

A repeat of the same. Scowling, Alec said

"Very well. Cunningham, front and center. Step into the light."

As people looked around, Alec stepped from the spotlights and vanished. Slowly, the human he'd called on stepped forward into the light as requested. A burly man, a bit over six feet tall, well muscled and clearly no stranger to physical training, he stood confidently in the light, his bravado evident.

"Mr. Cunningham has volunteered to assist with our first lesson. Mr. Cunningham did not follow directions, and is not wearing the required protective gear. Mr. Cunningham has chosen to be careless with his life, and disobedient to the Trainer, and Tacharan."

Stepping silently around the light so that no one saw the move, Alec made a slow, deliberate motion toward the man in the light, who began spasming uncontrollably. Twitching, jerking, eventually he fell to the floor, drooling slightly. Stepping into the light, standing over the downed human, Alec stated

"In Tacharan, we are not careless with our lives. In Tacharan, we are not disobedient. We thank you for this first lesson, Mr. Cunningham, and look forward to seeing you in our next training session. I trust no one has any questions about these two guidelines."

At the murmuring of consent, Alec smiled.

"Good. You now have three rules spelled out before you. Ludmer, state them."

Standing in the dark a large form spoke out.

"Trainer - the rules stated are, first - there are no stupid questions if they are spoken. Second - do not be careless with your life. Third - obey the clan."

Nodding, Alec smiled.

"Thank you, Ludmer. That was well stated. We are Tacharan. We're the newcomers to the vampiric table. We do not have the numbers to be careless with our lives. We follow the guidelines set forth by the other members of our clan because they WORK. Young Tacharan do not grow old by accident. They grow old by cunning, superior skill, mutual support and the will to do what is required. All of you are here because you show promise. At this point, that means you show either skill, cunning or will. My job is to make sure that you rub off on each other and learn support as well. Mr. Williams, your file said that you have some medical training. See to Mr. Cunningham and when he is prepped Mr. Ludmer will assist you with bringing him to the infirmary."

The lights switched on at this point, revealing the training area in its totality. Shading their eyes, the trainees looked around (except Williams, who was hovering over Cunningham).

"Today we'll be focusing on what you already know, and a bit about Tacharan."