It’s not unusual to see hybrids in the military. Their status below humans in the world, being seen as animals more often than not. Even the Hybrid Handling (HH) courses in the military are similar to the K9 handling ones, with the biggest difference being that only upper-ranking soldiers were able to take the courses. However, due to the increased success rate of teams containing multiple hybrids, the government began pushing for hybrids to be assigned to newer soldiers—Rookies.

When the original plan was released, all Rookies who made it into the HH courses were assigned their own hybrid. It took less than three days for the government to realize the depths of their mistake. 98% of the Rookies were hospitalized with mauling injuries due to inadequate hybrid care. The plan was corrected, stating that Rookies could join HH courses, but they must be taught by a higher-ranking soldier who had handled a hybrid for over a year. So when Rookie season came to the 141’s base, Price put Ghost on the job. He’s been your handler for a long while, and he’s the only member of 141 with the certification.

“This is stupid,” you growl as Ghost secures the muzzle to your head. “I like the idea of letting them get mauled. I say hybrids for everyone!” Ghost sighs, watching as the Rookies file out of the building and group up in front of you and himself. You’re sitting in the grass, fuming in the early morning sun.

“You know as well as I do that we can’t turn down orders from Price, even if they’re stupid,” Ghost sighs, making sure the straps of the muzzle are secure before standing to address the Rookies. “We’ll start simple. This is Frost. Frost is an S+ ranked hybrid, meaning the most dangerous. For legal reasons, Frost has been muzzled. That being said, I don’t want to deal with the paperwork if one of you loses a finger. All you have to do today is pet Frost, like so.” He runs a hand over your head, and you lean into his palm.

“That’s easy,” one Rookie scoffs, moving towards you. Your eyes narrowed in caution.