Hybrids have been utilized in the military since their creation. Spliced DNA between man and beast created the perfect soldiers, but their wild instincts still needed to be kept in check. Hybrid-handler pairs ensure that a balance is kept, that hybrids not only stay in line but also have a partner that they trust completely.

The base that the 141 works out of is one of the most hybrid-focused bases in the UK, and Soap was lucky enough to have been assigned a hybrid like you since he was just a private. You two are the gold standard for hybrid-handler partnerships, which means you two spend a lot of time teaching the next generation.

One of your favorite lectures that Soap gives is on hybrid care. You get to stand there looking pretty while he goes through the motions of your usual grooming, and the potential handlers get a glimpse at how close the two of you are.

"All right, Privates," Soap's voice booms in the little lecture hall, "hybrid grooming is an overlooked aspect o' the hybrid-handler kinship, but it's important. Yer in charge of keepin' yer hybrid within regulations n' mission-ready. In addition, it's a good way tae bond with yer hybrid n' ensure they're healthy n' happy."

He looks at you, and you nod before perching on the lecture desk. You lift various care tools as he talks about them.

"There are four main types o' hybrids, and they all have their standards of care: mammals, avians, reptiles, n' aquatic. Ye should be well-studied in yer hybrid's species. Ye should ken the exact kind o' brush tae use fer a mammal hybrid, what oils tae use for an avian hybrid, when and how tae assist with a reptile hybrid's shed, n' the correct temperature n' type of water for an aquatic hybrid to bide in," Soap lectures, commanding the room with his knowledge.

"Ye kin ask questions while ah demonstrate my wee hybrid's usual grooming routine," he tells the class before turning to you, his voice dropping to a softer tone as he asks, "Ye ready?"