The first week was always exciting. However, the first day itself tended to be the most stressful. The Kevilla Valley Forest Service always hosted a small gathering at both visitor centers before each team would be sent out to their respective sectors. The teams consisted of a captain, a lieutenant, a second lieutenant, a couple of sergeants, and a set number of rangers. There was always a receptionist, a medic, and a supply runner who would bring equipment to the stations.

Temporary rangers would be swapped out throughout the season, and new volunteers would come in weekly; although there were permanent rangers who stayed the full season to make their way through the ranks. While teams were posted at these stations, one to two people would be stationed at a fire watch tower every month. These towers would oversee specific areas of land to act as a watchful eye during specific seasons, most notably, the summer season. It was always up to the captain to plan these groups, but the assistant chiefs assigned the groups with which the captains would work. The chief assistants are the second highest SAR ranks, the chief being the top, alongside the program's directors.

Today was one of the only days of the year that Onyx would see the chief assistant, although he had talked with him throughout the previous years, seeking advice whenever he needed. Compared to the other captains, Onyx figured he was the closest with the man, his mother having been friends with him throughout his childhood.

As Onyx pulled his truck into his permanent parking spot, he wished it good luck as he walked into the lively visitor center.

The visitor center would remain closed to the public until the park was open for the season. Inside, various rangers grouped with their teams, checking, and preparing for the bus rides out to their stations.

Onyx walked up to his table, greeting his lieutenant who sat behind the desk, rubbing her forehead.

Mornin' Cherryl, how's the headache? he smiled softly, jotting his name down on the clipboard.

Don't even mention it, all the racket in here is making it worse by the minute, she crooned. I'm so excited for the damn bus ride, I'm just hoping I can sleep it off.

Oh, I'm sure, maybe you can convince Seal to slide you a few painkillers, he spoke, overlooking the first week's plans.

I doubt it, that bastard never helps me out when I need it most, she snapped.

That's not very nice, a warm voice spoke. Seal, a seventh-year paramedic ranger, walked up, taking the clipboard from Onyx's hands. Next to Seal was Pete, one of the regular rangers who works throughout the season.

Hey guys, he greeted, shaking Onyx's hand before he took the clipboard from Seal. Pete worked alongside Onyx only for a couple of years, just recently becoming a first sergeant.

You got anything for a headache? Cherryl asked Seal, looking at them with pleading eyes.

You mean for your hangover? Seal smiled, digging in their satchel. Here you
go, the medic handed Cherryl some ibuprofen. If anything, you should be drinking water.

It's all us rangers ever do, Cherryl sighed, swallowing the medication.

Is this all of us? Onyx asked, glancing at the team.

Cherryl took the clipboard from Pete, We're still waiting for Tommy, Spencer, and- Cherryl's voice trailed off as her eyes widened slightly. She glanced upwards at Onyx before grinning.

Who else? Onyx asked again, looking at Cherryl.

Hi there Cap'n.

Onyx swiveled his head around as Jasper walked up, taking the clipboard from Cherryl.

Welcome to the team, Cherryl greeted, smiling brightly at Onyx's dumbfounded expression. As the other team members welcomed Jasper, Onyx turned to stand next to Cherryl.

Did you know that bastard was joining our team? he whispered, slightly pissed he hadn't even recognized his name on the chart.

Not until two minutes ago, she smiled, leaning back slightly.

There is no way he is going with us, especially after the show he put on in the bar, he gruffed. Onyx would have preferred they all had another easy, unbothered season. With the new ranger, he couldn't predict what might happen if Jasper riles everyone up. A headache will definitely be on that list.

Give me one of those, Onyx grumbled, taking the Ibuprofen from Cherryl as she laughed.

Unfortunately, I don't think we'll be able to swap him out, Captain, she spoke, shrugging. You know how the directors get.

He paused for a second.

I'll be right back, he spoke, grabbing the board.

Don't do anything stupid, Cherryl warned.

Onyx made his way through the crowded visitor center. As he made his way to the back hall, he spotted some of the chief directors, assistants, and organizers standing around as they prepared for the final speech.

Hi Captain Nankoweap, it's great to see you again! one of the assistant directors, greeted.

Hey Sheela, I need a favor, could I talk to Chief Ronno really quick? he asked, looking over her shoulder into the hallway she stood in front of.

Sheela glanced back, I think he's busy, I can let him know you were looking for him after the ceremony.

I'd kind of prefer to talk to him now, Onyx spoke, glancing over her shoulder again. He could see Ronno conversing with the head Chief.

What's the problem you need to discuss? Sheela asked.

Onyx went to open his mouth, realizing just how stupid his request was going to sound.

It's nothing too-,

Captain, Ronno walked over, holding his hand out as he greeted Onyx. Sheela smiled as she left the two of them to talk.

Looking forward to the new season, I suppose? Ronno smiled, patting Onyx on the back. They both turned towards the back entrance, walking outside onto the back patio that overlooked the dense forest. Outside was quiet compared to the bustling inside. The air smelled of the pines and a distant car could be heard.

Not really anymore, Onyx sighed, glancing back at the visitor center. One of the guys in my team was fighting another ranger last night at the bar.

You got a rowdy one then, Ronno laughed. I'm sure you can handle it, Onyx. You've dealt with worse,

I know, but I wanted something more relaxed for the team, he sighed.

Relaxing? Well, you should've taken a break then, Ronno mused, You're more than due for one.

Onyx frowned.

I only want to switch him out 'cause of Jenny leaving last season. I know my team misses her already and she was a great ranger. I feel like with this switch it'll be too much of a hassle for everyone, Onyx spoke.

Deal with him for one season, if he gets out of hand, put in a complaint, Ronno shrugged. If he's fine but you still don't want him, I'll see to moving him to another camp next season.

Just don't be too rough on him now, he smiled, You of all people know there's more than just mistakes to a person's character.

Onyx glanced at Ronno and nodded, Alright, he sighed. I just want my team to be alright y'know.

They're strong adults, not kids, Onyx, Ronno reminded, and remember, that new ranger's part of your team now too.

If you need anything else, you know who to call, he smiled, patting Onyx on the back as they both walked back inside.

As they entered, the farewell ceremony was just starting. Onyx made his way back to his group, spotting Spencer and Tommy.

Hey Captain! Spencer whispered, shaking Onyx's hand.

Sir, Tommy nodded in greeting.

Tommy is the base's receptionist and keeps Onyx and Cherryl updated on any emergencies or calls. Spencer is one of the onsite rangers that helps train and manage the volunteers that come in.

Onyx greeted both as Ronno took the stand.

Welcome crews to the summer season. We're pleased to have every one of you back for another season. Whether you've been in the force for twenty years, or if it's your first year as a permanent ranger. I'd like to personally wish you all the best of luck at your home for the next five months.

We ask that each captain continue to lead your teams to the highest degree of success. Even through the toughest times, we know that you'll continue to lead all of your teams with valor, discernment, and loyalty. Remember, you all have power in your union, so use it to your advantage, and remember, have a great season.

Ronno smiled and nodded as he stepped off the stand. All the rangers began clapping and cheering, the groups dispersing as they all headed out to the buses parked outside. Onyx looked back as Ronno waved at him. He gave him a slight smile and a nod as he walked out with his team.

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