Semper fidelis

We spent the next hour watching and listening to law enforcement briefings from several agencies. They all had different agendas and dealt with different perspectives on criminal behavior and the challenges of their jobs, trying to protect the law-abiding citizens from the criminal element.

The things they all had in common? They were under-staffed, under-funded, over-worked, and under-paid.

“Mtumishi has developed a list of criminals who have gotten away with many crimes in the area. Information has already been shared, anonymously, with law enforcement to provide tips and video proof enough to thwart some activities, but others will require human intervention. That’s where you come in.”

Our friend had been silent for a long time, so it was good to hear his voice again. I’m still not sure how I know the difference between his voice and Mtumishi, but it seems natural. Maybe it’s another gift from the sphere.

“Law enforcement will never have enough resources to defeat the evil in communities, and most civilians do not have the resources, training, and abilities needed to assist. Now you have been given resources, training and abilities to begin to help, but you will acquire more of each. Disguised in your suits, you will begin to do small tasks that cannot be done using data. Your careers will provide you with the additional training and some of the resources you will need to continue to enhance your proficiency and efficiency.

“Thank you for your courage and willingness to do what is needed — what is right. It is why I brought you together, and how you will succeed.”

“Our careers?” Kimberly asked.

“What have you always wanted to do for a career, Kimberly?” our friend asked.

Kimberly smiled. “My parents want me to ‘Go Army’ but I’ve always wanted to Fly — Air Force Chopper pilot!”

“And you, Mo?” he asked.

Mo grinned. “I must be a riverboat captain! I’m kidding. I’ve always wanted to be a doctor. I’m not sure what sort. My father is a neurosurgeon and my mom is a general practitioner. It’s sort of in my blood.”

“I’m living my dream already as a nanotechnology and robotics engineer — ever since my senior year at MIT,” Arya chimed in.

They all looked at me.

“Have you decided, my friend?” asked Mo.

“I told him he could do both,” Kimberly said.

“I feel I have to use these abilities to help my country and our world. The best place I can think to do that is the US Marine Corp,” I said. “But I want to go to The Citadel first.”

“But they won’t be able to cut your indestructible and un-mussable ‘fro,” Kimberly said with concern.

I shrugged my shoulders and we all laughed.

“Semper Fidelis,” Arya said profoundly.

“Semper Fi,” echoed our Friend.