Rule 7 : Rage

Chapter 27: Aim, Target, Shoot.

My full focus was on this trial. As I pulled the trigger, the bullet soared above the bullseye, landing a few inches away from the main target. The sound of the gun echoed, blending with my short hiss, leaving me feeling as if I hadn't achieved anything.

But truthfully, this has been the story of my life. Every time I try something new, it doesn't always work out. The feeling of disappointment is all too familiar. Apart from the academic certificate sponsored by the orphanage, I've never accomplished anything remarkable.

I never imagined that my certification would have any practical use, given the lack of connections or funds. Now that I'm part of the Shaque, my certification feels utterly worthless, as I'm trapped within this dangerous group.

Lost in a swirl of thoughts and emotions, my focus returned to DNA. I noticed him smirking at the scene before us. "That's quite impressive. Now, aim for the bullseye. Imagine if it were a human skull," he commanded with authority.

His words reignited my hope, mingled with a hint of dread, leading me to believe he might have a good heart. Perhaps he wasn't like the wicked and mysterious Lord Maximus. A shiver ran through me as wisps of smoke escaped my mouth. I readied myself to aim for the bullseye once more, pulling the trigger. This time, nothing happened.

Turning to DNA, I began, "I pulled the trigger, but it didn't..." confusion creased my forehead.

He retrieved the gun and interjected, "You need to adjust and cock the trigger before pulling, it's crucial." Moving closer, he made the necessary adjustments to the trigger. I took note of this, keeping it in mind as he handed the gun back to me. Raising the gun to the target, I positioned myself and aimed for the bullseye.

This time, my heart raced as memories of Imogen flooded my mind. "I'm Imogen, a tattoo artist," her soft and calming voice echoed in my ears. "Don't be frightened; you're in safe hands." With her words resonating within me, I felt my bravery returning, heightening my focus.

As my forehead furrowed, I took a deep breath and pulled the trigger, sending the bullet straight to the bullseye. "I'm Imo... Imo... gen... gen," her voice echoed in my ears, interrupted only by the sound of the bullet shattering my thoughts. Turning to DNA, I offered a soft smile.

DNA's expression betrayed his surprise; he stood in awe, his pupils widening in amazement at my precise aim. Slowly lowering the gun, I reached for my cigarette, only to find it extinguished. I discarded it with a flick of my hand.

"You amaze me," DNA remarked, exhaling a puff of smoke, a smile playing on his lips. "I would have loved to call you Quodac, but Lord Maximus hasn't named you yet."

"My pleasure, DNA. You're an excellent teacher," I replied, unable to contain my smile as I felt a sense of accomplishment.

"You'll be staying here at the Shadow Pact until your training is complete. We'll provide everything you need," he added, smacking his lips.

Zayn nodded in agreement, thinking to himself, "I can't believe I just went through two sticks of cigarettes."

"Do you want another stick?" DNA offered, extending a cigarette and a lighter to me. "Did he hear my thoughts?" I wondered to myself. Following his gaze, I noticed he was staring at the discarded cigarette on the ground.

I nodded and accepted the cigarette from him. Lighting it up, I exhaled thick tendrils of smoke, feeling at ease.

DNA proceeded and handed over to me another gun to face another target, this time it was a steel silhouette target with three zones, A, B, and C. As we positioned ourselves, DNA gestured toward the target. "Aim, target, shoot," he instructed, demonstrating the process. I attempted to shoot at different zones, but my aim lacked steadiness.

The sounds of multiple bullets echoed in the shooting range. "Aim, target, shoot," I repeated to myself. Despite feeling a mix of fear and anxiety, anticipation for the new adventure overshadowed my doubts.

One question persisted: "What could be the reason for my sudden bravery and adaptation? No, it can't be Imogen!" Until I find my answer, I will continue striving for survival here.