Thread: The Forgotten and The Changed (Raivh & Roses)

Blaine sat on a bench in a rather intricate garden. Small birds, bees, and insects flitted or zipped about. There was a breeze. He knew that much. He could see it whisking through the grass, flowers, and gently rustling the branches in the trees. That was it, though. He could see it. Feeling it was a different story. His eyes lowered and focused on the palms of his hands, watching intently as his fingers curled and then straightened repeatedly. Everything about him was a machine now, save his memory. His mind was the only part of him that was still human. Save that small part of him, he was now just one walking, talking war machine. He supposed it was best. There wasn't anything in the world he'd rather be than a soldier. He was a lifer, too scared to return to civilian life anyway. How are you adjusting? The deep, gruff voice startled him out of his trance, and he looked up to see the Major standing just a few feet to his right. Oh, Blaine started, just barely a mumble, Uh, good, I guess. It's just bizarre. Nodding his head, the Major closed the space between them and placed a large, firm hand on Blaine's shoulder. Doc says in time you'll be able to feel things as you did in your old body. Give it some time, son. Gracing Blaine with a smile, he patted his shoulder and stepped away, heading back in the direction of the hospital. I've got somewhere I've got to be. I look forward to seeing how you improve in the coming weeks. Blaine's eyes were trained on the major. He could see everything with such clarity, every blemish, scar, and irregularity of the man's face. He could even see the variances in his irises. Yes, sir. Rising to his feet, Blaine saluted his superior officer before he dropped his gaze to his boots. He was only just getting used to this form, but he had somewhere he needed to be as well. Inhaling deeply, he found the motion felt almost unnecessary. It was a function the doc had added as an extra touch, something to keep remind him that everything that was happening was real. He took off, jogging briskly. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Sinking down against the mattress opposite Siobhan, the Major studied the girl, gauging her strength. He decided she'd learn eventually. Reckford's been reassigned as well. The bed creaked as he shifted his weight and folded his arms across his chest. Inevitably, she was going to have many questions. He was sure of it. All this time, she'd probably thought he was dead. Technically, he was. At least as she'd known him. There's something you should know, though, Captain, he continued, furrowing his brow slightly and reaching one hand behind his neck to scratch the base of his head. That boy doesn't remember a thing about you. Rising to his feet, he acknowledged her with a nod of his head before striding over toward the door, his boots clunking against the tile floor. He paused in the door way and looked at her over his shoulder. And he won't, Captain. So please just focus on getting well yourself. With that, he left the room, brushing shoulders with a nurse carrying a tray of food. He snagged the nurse by the upper arm and leaned down to speak into her ear. Be mindful she doesn't get hysterical. Sedate her if necessary. The nurse nodded, saying nothing, and continued into the room. After setting the tray down on a bedside table, she walked toward the blinds and pulled them open. Then, she turned to look at Siobhan. Would you like your lunch now, ma'am?