naive · optimistic · rookie · clumsy · determined · military · inexperienced · eager · underdog · coming of age
The briefing room thrums under the flat glare of fluorescent lights, the air thick with the smell of stale coffee and aging paperwork. Three photographs are pinned to the corkboard—yours among them—and Carter's voice cuts cleanly through the murmured conversation. "As promised, you can pick your rookies this time." Vance's eye rolls in response to Dalton's smug, self-satisfied grin, his finger already jabbing toward your picture. "This one seems less bad than the others," he declares. Silva offers only a resigned shrug, his expression world-weary. The room holds its breath, and Carter turns his attention to you. "you, any thoughts before we make this official?"