"He is the rising star of the army, a young, brilliant military strategist and general. She is a new fighter, spirited and determined but lacking somewhat in skill. He absolutely refuses to teach her- until his commanding general orders him to, even promoting the girl to his second in command. While neither of them are happy about it, they must suck it up- because the war doesn't have time for their petty feelings. But as she begins to learn, the two begin to warm up to each other, and find their hate melting into something much, much more. But the war doesn't have time for their feelings, and both are honor bound to give their lives for the whole, if necessary. Can their love go ignored, or will things begin to heat up?"

◤____________________◥
Camry Blake
Male, Straight
•••••
20 years of age
Five feet, eleven inches tall
145 pounds
Sky blue eyes to loose yourself in
Ice blonde hair to freeze your fingers in
◣____________________◢

◤____________________◥
Haley Crest
Female, Straight
•••••
eighteen years of age
standing about five foot six
weighing nearly 130 pounds
a yellow gaze to intimidate and deceive with
a mess of red fringe to get tangled up in and crave
◣____________________◢

Camry Blake sighed and rested his chin in his hand, listening to the meeting drone on. Commanding General Arden Blake (Camry's father, as it were- not a connection he was proud of) had called the generals together, saying he had important business, but it seemed to be the usual useless nothing. His father was about as worthless as they came, but somehow the man had made it to commanding general. It pissed Camry off, especially since he was always cleaning up after his father, but at least they hadn't lost yet.

Camry sighed irately, a look of severe disinterest on his young face. He wanted to just get up and say "screw this" and leave, but he had a reputation to hold up. Camry was the youngest general the army had ever seen; at first, most people had (spitefully) attributed it to his father being the commanding general; of course his son would be highly ranked.

No, that had been enough to piss Camry off. He had fought tooth and nail to get his position- screw it if he was young, did it matter? Camry was damn good at what he did, a good deal better then his lame excuse of a father. He soon had even the strongest doubters eating their words with a shovel. Camry only proved to be deadly and brilliant on and off the battlefield, as cunning a strategist and as strong a warrior as he could be. No way would he let one boring little meeting ruin that reputation he had worked so hard to build.

It was a tempting thought, though.

[[Aah, no love between Camry and his father..... I think he's just gonna hate everyone XD]]

Being new was an understatement. Haley Crest wasn’t just new, she was brand new. Picked fresh from the middle of her training class with an urgent message that said, “Get her here now,” yeah, that was Haley Crest for you. Not only was she fresh meat, she didn’t even get to finish her training one-hundred percent. Still unsure why they wanted her so badly, Haley caved in and went off to the ground where she was requested.

Rushing to put her uniform on and get her gear strapped into place, she watched as a green light went off. Green means go. She knew this for a fact. Holding in a breath, she jumped out of the side of the hunter green carrier. Wind blazing past her pale cheeks, Haley could feel the water flood her eyes. It’s not like she meant to get such a rush, but it did happen nonetheless. Forcing her lids shut, Haley waited. Three…two… NOW! Eyes shot open and a rip cord was tugged. A brilliant red cloud mushroomed from her backpack and continued to expand as it welcomed the wind.

Half-bracing herself, Haley continued down to when the violent thrashing would begin. It was just something natural in this area. When it finally came and went, she looked down at the earth below her. It was so… small. Smiling some at her new home, she continued the seconds which became minutes as she floated down. Once the earth was engulfing her buckling feet, Haley Crest clipped her parachute strings and undressed from the bizarre underwear-like belt that was pressing too firmly against her now full bladder.

With her feet now warming up to the thought of walking, she stammered over toward a fellow soldier. Waving she was greeted with a nasty scowl. Forcing her smile away, she realized she wasn’t in Kansas anymore and that this was war. Her smile was a thing of the past. From here on out she was a cold hearted killer.

Stepping into the room where General Arden Blake was, she bowed her head some. Raising her hand to salute the male, her eyes caught a glimpse of Camry. Well isn't he a sight for sore eyes. It's too bad he's ugly and not my type. Glaring at him, she returned her attention to the general. "Sir! Special Ops Agent Haley Crest reporting for duty, sir!" Her eyes were fixated on a piece of hair that seemed oddly out of place. As her eyes crossed some to study the hair more, she soon realized she was doing just that - staring. Stepping back, she waited for orders... as well as a good scolding for staring.

Camry stared at the woman, scowling something fierce at the glare she gave him. Who the hell was she?!? Haley Crest? What did she think she was doing, charging into here and acting like she belonged.

"Ah, Miss Crest, you've finally arrived," his father said in his deep, grumbling voice. With a voice like that, you'd think he'd be a fearsome, awesome leader. No, he was just a semi-competent idiot half the time. "You got here fast; I only sent for you a few days ago, am I correct?"

Camry deadpanned to his father, a look of disbelief crossing his features. "You sent for her," he asked, fury touching the edges of his voice. What the hell?!? "Father, what are you thinking?"

Arden Blake looked up at his son, looking a bit startled. "Well, I thought we could use more help around here," the man said with a shrug. "You're instructor was an old friend of mine," General Arden said, looking back to Haley. "He's told me about how skilled you are, even for not having all your training finished."

"You can't be serious," Camry said, his voice almost a snarl. "Father, she hasn't even completed her training?" That was almost the last straw- Camry could have killed his father right then. She was the last thing they needed. They were already swamped with trainees, and none of the other generals could take on yet another person.

"Camry," Arden said sharply. "You would do well to sit down and be still." Camry sucked in a deep breath and held it, then slowly sank back into his seat, fuming. "Please forgive my son, Miss Crest. He's a bit headstrong," Arden said. Camry stewed in his seat, glaring at the table so that he wouldn't glare at the sources of his frustration- namely, his father and Haley.

[[LOL Camry's so hateful.]]

A small smile came to her face. "My instructor is the best. No one can outdo his level or expertise when it comes to training us rookies. You have my many thanks for selecting me. I will not let you down, sir." Bending at the hips to bow, her yellow eyes drifted over to the rude officer - Camry. "Sir," Haley said looking him in the eyes "if I do become a burden or a bother, don't hesitate to send me back. I know that soldier over yonder has his doubts in me, but I shall do all that I can to live up to this base's expectations. I shall not fail you."

Just as she took her leave, she spun back around. "Sir, if it's not too much to ask, who will I be reporting to? I would like to get to know him or her some. While I'm in the holding chambers, might I be able to catch up on their files and prepare myself for the style this officer prefers?" Haley Crest's eyes narrowed as she turned her nose up at Camry. I pray to the god I don't believe in that it isn't him. There is no way in hell I'd obey that mutt.

Suddenly it clicked. "Wait a minute. Did you just call him... father?" With her eyes widening, Haley spun about to give Camry another look-see. "I presume you're Camry Blake. If this is true, I heard this rumor that you and I were going to be partners. Hope I'm not too out of your league to handle. I won't want the team to lose their best man." Her taunting tone fluctuated some as she spoke. At times she was soft, but then her voice boomed with a feline like hissing sound. There is no way in hell that lil' punk will tame me.

Camry gave Haley one of the worst looks ever, an odd mix between distaste, anger, and a bit of horror. Then he turned to look at his father, clenching his hands into fists.

"Father," he said in a slow, almost accusing voice. "Is what that woman is saying true?" Arden Blake stroked his beard for a moment, watching to two.

"Well, I have considered it. Now that I see you two together, it seems like a perfect match." Camry's mouth hung open for a moment. Was the old man going blind and senile?!? Did he not see the nasty looks flying between the two like daggers? And he talked of it so lightly, as if it was a wedding or something!

"Father, I beg you to reconsider," Camry hissed, his plea sounding more like a command. "You cannot expect.... I don't have the time to train anyone right now." Especially not an Amazon like her, he thought, sending the girl a long glance.

"Bah, my mind is made up," Arden said with a wave of his hand. "You'll do fine, son." Camry bolted right up, giving his father a furious look before storming out of the tent, brushing roughly past Haley. "You'll have to forgive the lad," Arden said with a guilty, apologetic smile. "He's got a skull as thick as steel, but I'm sure he'll come around eventually. Welcome to the army, Miss Crest. If you need anything, don't be a stranger."
~~~~

Meanwhile, Camry was in less of a good mood. Men almost jumped out of his way as the young man approached; there weren't storm clouds looming above his head or fire erupting from where his feet touched the ground, but the look on his face was more then enough to compensate for either of the two.

"Hey General, you look like your in a bad mood," one poor, stupid, stupid man was unfortunate enough to ask. Camry only glared at him, the glare enough to make the man shrink back.

"I'll be at the training grounds," he snapped shortly, before grabbing his horse and riding off.

"It's fine, sir. I've dealt with worse. I'm sure I can make his life hell, but I will do my best not to torment him too much. Ha ha. Have a good day, sir. If anything should come up, I will be sure to stop by." Smiling, Haley spun around to left the tent.

Her feet hardly even touched the ground as she gleefully moved about. Several stares were sent her way and just to mess with the boys' heads, she winked. A few of them fainted and a handful broke into a large cheesy grin. "Any of you studs seen Cam?" Batting her lashes, she purred up against one of the finer looking guys. "He and I have a little play date. I'm gonna be the bad girl." Unzipping her jacket, she noticed how all the men went hard. Men, so predictable.

With a quick wave, she ran off toward the training grounds. "Listen you. I don't like you either and I don't plan on making your life easy, so why don't cha just do us both a favor and find me a new captain. There ain't no way in hell I'm going to train with a punk ass jerk like you. I demand a real man. Not some little boy in soldier clothes."

Hands on her hips and a foot tapping, Haley Crest waited to see just how this scene would play out. Two endings popped up in her head. The first pretty much had him surrendering and getting her another man. The other, well let's just say it went X-rated pretty fast. What the hell? No f'ing way I'm doing anything sexual with this man. But, if my mind undressed him right, god damn, I might reconsider. Those abs are to die for. His butt is pretty sexy too. Okay, so he's somewhat hot, but I'm not gonna sleep around with my boss. That and this thug's a jerk. No way in hell this chick is going to do it with a jerk.

Camry's eyes narrowed dangerously, a light that any soldier who had fought with him would have recognized entering his eyes- and would have been terrified to have directed at them. "Listen," he hissed, taking a step towards her. He managed to back her up against a nearby training dummy, his body inches away from her. His dark eyes scanned her face with an air of irritated disinterest. One hand went over her shoulder, the other next to her waist, both palms pressed against the dummy and effectively trapping her.

"If I could find you a new captain, believe me I would," he said softly, leaning in a little. His face was very close to hers, and someone standing behind them would think something of a very different nature was going down. "If I could get rid of you, believe me I would." he took a deep, shaky breath, trying not to get too angry.

"Unfortunately, we're both stuck with each other," he continued. "So, unless one of us dies, you're going to have to put on your big girl pants and get over it. Do you think you can do that, princess," he said mockingly. He let his eyes roam over her face one more time, before pushing away from the dummy and freeing her to do what she pleased. He made a point of ignoring her as he closed his eyes, trying to recenter himself.

Of course, she was a sight for sore eyes- even Camry was subject to the allure of a woman. Luckily, her attitude was a good turn-off for him. He could only hope his men wouldn't be idiots and get killed while watching her ass or something. He sighed, shaking his head- oh, no, most of them would be idiots. They were gonna need luck on their side to survive this war.... and Haley Crest.

Blinking at everything that just happened, Haley rested a hand on his. "Listen, I'm not here to cause trouble or to start a fight. Orders said to report. I reported. I'm sorry I'm not your ideal trainee, but I will do what I can to make this... bearable to say the less."

Twisting his hand, she glared at him. "Oh, and if you ever do that to me again, I will break your wrist. Got that?" Flicking her hair into his face, Haley stomped off to join up with some of the other rookies. Just as Camry had guessed, they all were too busy checking her butt out. Rolling her eyes, Haley tugged down on her jacket, hoping it would lesser the impact. To her dismay, it made things slightly worse. Not only was her butt in plain view, but not her breasts were visible too. "Ugh," she hissed. "Sorry, I need to speak with my commanding officer. I'll be back."

Butt wiggling the whole way there (much like any woman's butt would), she walked up to Camry. "Do you have clothes I could wear. Apparently these morons don't know what my size is and, well as you can see, I'm popping out of everything. I can wear a man's uniform. In fact, it might be a better move." Her eyes traced his. "Camry Blake," she said with her mouth still ajar "are you checking me out?" Covering her chest, she huffed. "I get this is a sausage fest, but I would like to not be undressed by you. Especially a punk like you."

----------

[[Oh these two are going to be so fun! X3]]

Camry winced slightly, but made a point of not letting her see it hurt him. He managed a cool grin, shaking hair out of his eyes. "Don't cause any trouble and I won't have to," he challenged. "Actually, I'd prefer to not have to again." He exhaled as she released him and walked away, gingerly rotating his wrist. Iron cast, ball busting wench, he thought wryly, before turning to refocus yet again.

It seemed someone upstairs had it out for him, because moments later Haley came back all in a huff. He sighed and turned to face her, an amused smirk touching his lips. "You didn't bring your own clothes, Princess? Now there's a surprise." He raised an eyebrow as she accused him of checking her out, then gave a short, humorless laugh.

"Me, check you out? I'm sorry to break it to you, Princess, but you're not that attractive." Oh, he was so lying. She was in every way attractive if she kept her mouth shut (But he didn't think that would be happening anytime soon.) He leaned on his sword hilt casually, the blade stuck into the ground. It was a beast of a sword, and most people were surprised that Camry could manage it. He was all lean muscle, not bulky like some of the others.

"I'm almost tempted to let you suffer, but that would mean my men would be distracted, and they would all die. Then I'd be stuck with you for the rest of this campaign." He tried to think if there was anyone even remotely close to her size, and to his dismay found he was the closest (Camry was actually the smallest man in the army; didn't make him any less deadly. He just liked being able to lift his arms over his head.)

"You'll have to borrow something of mine," he said finally. "That is, until we stop by a town or make a run for supplies; then we can get you something better fitting." Even though he was closest to her in size, she was pretty sure she would be swimming in his clothes. She may have had quite the chest, but his was rather broad. "Come on, we'll go grab something." He pulled his sword out of the ground and slung it over his shoulder, turning his back to her to go to his tent. He paused and looked over his shoulder at her, smirking.

"And don't worry, Princess, it would be my worst nightmare to undress you," he said, before continuing on his way.

[[I love these two XD I so glad I chose to play the boy. Camry's such a BAMF :'D And I was totally gonna say something dirty at the end there, but Mene might ban me for it >.>]]

Haley's yellow eyes narrowed. "Borrow... from you? No thanks. I'd rather run around naked than... get in your pants." Standing with her back against his door, Haley hissed "I sure as hell don't need that rumor going around. I mean, seriously. Do you honestly think you'd have a chance with me? No. Definitely not. You're not even hot. More like plain and boring. I want a real man, not another damn one night stand."

Walking away, she felt her fists turn into balls. I hate this place. I hate it! I was told not to bring clothes. I don't. Then I show up and they ask where my clothes are. Are all men perverts? Whirling around, her messy red hair masked her face. "Tell me something, punk. Are all your men perverts? If so, I'm filing a restraining order. I ain't about to have some low life scums newbies touch my ass. And I sure as hell am not going to obey you. I'm finding a new commander."

Her boots dug into the earth as she stomped off toward Camry's father. "Sir. I'm sorry, but I demand a new commander. Your son's men are down-right disgusting pigs. All they care about are my girls and my behind. I swear, I'll get them boys killed with how much they are staring at me. That that thing you call your son isn't any better. He was just trying to get me into his pants. Can't a woman get a spec of respect around here?" Her foot tapped against the ground. "Ugh, speak of the devil. If it isn't cologne wearing Camry." Her eyes narrowed as she glared at him. "Leave me the hell alone. You are the last person I ever want to see." Turning, she looked at Mr. Blake. "Please excuse my tongue, but I cannot stomach the sight of this hideous man any longer. I cannot be with a man that does not treat me like another man. I feel like I'm a hooker in this place, and I ain't no goddamn hooker."

----------

[[She's so mean. XD I love these two. You do a fantastic job playing Camry, btw. ^_^]]

[[Haha no love lost between these two XD And thank you ^.^ I love Haley, she's such a beeotch!]]

Camry rolled his eyes- this woman. So pretentious. "You can try, but it ain't gonna get you anywhere, Princess," he called after her, slightly amused.

After a second he decided to follow her- no telling what she would tell his father. He reached down and grabbed a small pack, attaching it to his belt before jogging down to his father's tent. He got there just as Haley began winding up. "Oh, you're words wound me," he said sarcastically, mockingly clutching at his heart. "Honestly, Miss Crest, you haven't even given me and my poor men a chance. I'm sure you'd be rather starstruck if a man you found attractive walked into a camp you've been stuck in with nothing but other women for several years." It was sad, but true. Most of the men didn't have families to go home to- they'd been too young when they joined the army, too young to have known a woman's love. Not that Camry was any different, but unlike his men he had been taught to respect women.

Of course, as far as he was concerned, Haley Crest was no woman. More like a fire breathing hell cat.

"Camry," his father said sternly. "What exactly is the problem here? Is it true that you tried to proposition her?" Camry snorted, trying not to laugh.

"Forgive my rudeness, father, but me? Sleep with her? There are fairer damsels in the land, and I'm sure that they wouldn't try and break my wrist," he said. He'd probably have to explain that little incident later, but now was not the time. "And besides, she was the one asking to get into my pants- it seems Miss Crest had not brought any appropriate clothing, and I was simply offering her the use of my extra clothes until something better could be found for her." He gave Haley a smug, nasty smirk as his father raised an eyebrow.

"And honestly, Miss Crest, do you expect anywhere to be any different? You are the only female in this camp. In fact, your probably better off in my unit- the others would tear you apart." As much as he hated to admit it, Haley was better off with him. His men may have seemed like pigs, but once they got used to her they wouldn't be too terrible- they were a respectable lot, all very young men from good families. Of course, the same thing could not be said for any of the other regiments. The men were older, rougher, and cruder. Men you wanted on your side, but you wouldn't take them home to meet your sister.

"I've heard enough," General Blake said, cutting through the tension building in the air. "It seems you two have a lesson to learn from each other- I'm sorry, Haley, but I must deny your request." He turned to leave, and paused at the doorway. "Besides, Camry is right," he said. "You're better off where you are." Then he left the two alone in the tent, which was a very, very bad idea.

As soon as the tent flap swung shut, Camry turned on Haley with a fire in his eyes. He grabbed her and backed her up onto the table, his right hand resting on the table behind her back, his left grabbing the edge near her thigh, their bodies pressed together. "You want me to treat you like a man," he hissed, his eyes narrowed. This confrontation had been the last straw- bringing the issue to his father had pushed him over the edge. Her words had infuriated him- not the ones about him, but those about his men. "If you want respect, then you better damn well earn it," he growled, his face close to hers. There was no possible escape for her, short of killing him, which would in turn get her killed. "You want us to treat you like an equal, then you better stop whining like a goddamned spoiled brat." He stared at her for a second, his expression still very much angry. "Welcome to the army, Miss Crest. This isn't a joke, so stop treating it like one." He pushed away from the table, releasing her. He made his way for the exit, and paused, looking over his shoulder at her. He looked very much like his father had when he was in his prime, a young, powerful warrior that Camry had adored.

"Here," he said darkly, unstrapping the sachel from his waist and tossing it on the chair closest to him. "Unless you want to go around drawing attention to yourself in unsavory ways, then you can wear that until you find something better." Then he turned and left, going back to his tent. In the sachel she would find a loose, collarless white shirt with long sleeves that came in to fit at the wrist, as well as plain black pants with a higher waist. They had fit Camry perfectly, so they would be a bit looser on her. There was also one of his extra belts so that she could cinch the shirt in a bit if she desired to. They were actually the clothes Camry wore on his downtime, for comfort, but she needed them more. He could suffer the discomfort if it would shut her up.

He got back into his tent and yanked his sword belt off, tossing it on the ground. With an irritated growl he unbuttoned the first couple buttons at the top of his shirt- he was still pissed off, and he felt like the shirt was choking him. He flung himself onto his cot, draping one hand over his eyes as he tried to calm himself down, his other hand dangling off the side of the cot as he clenched and unclenched it slowly.

[[Camry got aaaangry O3O]]

Frowning as her request was denied, she wasn’t quite ready for the next episode that followed. This getting thrown around thing, it did do a toll on her, but she was used to it. It was something she hated, but something that she would forever know. Her father was in the army. He used to push her around and treat her like she was nothing. Pulling her hair out, forcing her to look and act like a man. Her father, Major Lawrence Crest was furious when he received news that the child in his wife’s womb was not a male, but a woman. Alexxis Crest was a wounded soldier that Lawrence rescued on one of his missions. According to Haley’s uncle, it was said to be love at first sight.

Her father saw this wounded woman bleeding as she helplessly tried to save a little boy. Lawrence found it touching, that he carried Haley’s mother all the way back to camp. A medic took her in and later diagnosed her with a brain tumor. Only a year or so left to live. Lawrence, being a helpless romantic, ended up marrying Lexxi. During their honeymoon, some romancing happened and nine months later, Haley Crest was born. A day she would never live down. Going into labor was the worst thing possible for her mother. The trauma and excitement caused her brain to swell. Internal bleeding kicked in, and before Lawrence’s helicopter could land, Lexxi passed away. With her dying breath she whispered the name Haley, and since then, both Haley and her father had to live with the one person that killed Alexxis – Haley, herself.

Getting yelled at on the table caused her mind to run back to a memory where her father verbally abused her. He never once laid a hand on her; he would only yell and emotionally scar her. Lawrence wanted a son. He was given a daughter. But, to make up for not being a man, Haley was sure to join everything a man could join. Rather than being a Girl Scout, she was a Boy Scout. Cheerleading? Try football. Dancing? Oh please, Haley did martial arts. She even wore a tux to prom and drove to school in a hefty pick-up truck. Rather than loving pink, she loved blood red. She hated gossip, but thrived on adrenaline rushes and causing trouble with the boys. Baggy pants, large belts, and abs of steel, that was Haley. She acted like a guy, but her breasts, hips, and butt were a dead giveaway that she was a bitchy tomboy.

Rather than having the last word, Haley let Camry leave. Looking at the bag, she smiled. Maybe he isn't so bad after all. Twirling her hair around a finger, her eyes danced up to the tent's roof. I wonder if he's a good kisser. Knowing him, he's got a woman back home. Wait, what the hell am I thinking? Me? Him? Together? HELL NO! Oh Haley, stop being so soft. He might be somewhat sweet, but you cannot fall for a jerk like that. No way!

Removing her short shorts first, she slipped on the black pants. They were a tad long, but it was an easy fix. Rolling them up, she smiled at how loosely they hung on her hips. Stringing her own belt through it, she looked at her self. I'm kind of hot looking in this. Hmmm, let's try on this top. Taking her off, she buttoned the white shirt up and then tied the front up some. So what if it showed her abs, maybe it would motivate some of the guys to get in better shape. Tugging the pants down some, she smirked. Her red boxers were visible, but it looked nice. She looked punk-like, in a way. Boots laced up next, she walked out the tent. Some men waved at her, so she waved back. It felt nice not to have guys trying to look down her shirt, and with these pants so loose, no one even noticed how round her butt was.

Guess I should thank him. Walking to Camry's tent, she stopped short when she was his father. "I apologize for earlier. I think the heat was getting to me. Now, which tent is Camry's? I need to thank him. I guess he's not so bad after all." He pointed and she bowed.

Haley hoped that Camry wouldn't completely chew her out this time around. She was trying. She might have acted spoiled and bitchy, but she was just trying to act tough.

"Camry," she saw his shirt was open and it caused her to blush slightly. Directing her eyes to her feet, she wiggled a bit. "I'm sorry. I... I...." Her eyes went left. Oh god Hal, don't cry now. For Christ sakes, toughen up your big baby. Her emotions were shot. The truth would come up. More like flood out. She was terrified of being here. She hated the thought of being a soldier so this acting tough deal, it was all just a facade to hid her trembling mind. Eyes watering up even more, she forced them shut. A single tear escaped and she felt it roll down her dusty cheek. Don't look, please don't look. Better yet, order me away. Just get rid of me. Don't see me crying, oh please don't see me crying. Too afraid to open her eyes, Haley waited blindly for Camry to say (or do) something.

----------

[[Dawwww, poor Haley! She wants a hug. XD]]

[[Dawww! She's adorable when she isn't trying to eat him XD]]

Camry sighed and opened one eye, about to tell her it was no problem and to get the hell out of his tent- when he saw her crying. "Whoa now," he muttered, sitting up. He examined her for a second (She looked rather nice now that she wasn't hanging out of her clothes), then gave a frustrated groan and got to his feet, crossing over to her.

"Hey, come on now, Princess, no tears," he said, trying to cheer her up. Holding hands was not something Camry was good at; he usually told people who came to him with problems to suck it up and grow a pair. Then again, the people who usually came to him were homesick men, not pretty girls who tried to claw him to shreds. "Hey, hey," he murmured gently, taking her chin and tilting her face up a bit so that he could examine her better. "Come on Haley, don't cry," he said, feeling a little panicky when she didn't stop crying and yell at him to get his hands off her. He almost preffered that, at least he knew what to do.

"Look, I'm sorry for earlier," he said, wincing at the pain this caused his pride (Vanity, thy name is manhood.) "I was... I overstepped my boundaries. I should have controlled myself better." He lifted his other hand and pulled the sleeve down, dabbing at the tears that stained her cheeks. "You have every right to be offended- we don't know how to behave ourselves around women. Like you said, its pretty much a big sausage fest here." He was rambling now, really, but he didn't know what else to do.

[[Oh mah gawd short XD This is making up for my uber long post >.>]]

Her mind went blank. Frozen in fear, Haley had to pry her eyes open. Sure enough, his chest had to be right there in plain view. Great. He's hot and he's sensitive. The tears just kept coming. There was no way to stop them. In her entire life Haley might have cried maybe three times.

The first was when she was born. Oh god did she cry. According to her friends and family (obviously not her dad) she cried for a full three hours after her mother passed away. The doctors said Haley was very close to Alexxis and that her passing away was causing all the grief.

The second time Haley cried was in the third grade. Her best friend had borrowed her all time favorite Lion King color-changing Simba spoon. All was happy and great until her friend (Lauren) threw it away. Boy oh boy did that ever cause Haley to flip. She turned over the trash cans and looked and looked for that dang spoon. Just as she was about to dig threw a pile of food, silverware, and whatever else the kids threw away, a teacher grabbed her and sent her to the principal. Let's just say she was sent home crying and covered in leftover food. And no, she never found that damn spoon.

Her mind was a mess running through everything. She recalled her seventh grade math flash cards, her eleventh grade physics project, kissing her father goodbye before being shipped off to boot camp, and now Camry standing there before her with that soft look on his face. Reaching forward, she pulled herself closer into his chest. He was warm and surprisingly soft. As she felt his heart beating in his chest, her eyes seemed to stop producing all those terrible tears. But her mind was wandering.

What if someone walked in? Oh god, they would think I was in love with him. I can't be in love with this man. I hate him. Hate, hate, hate, hate, hate him! Knowing my luck it'll be his father. Or his best friend. Oh great, they'll talk about me like there was no tomorrow. Dammit Hal, dammit! You messed up big time now get your hands off his chest and back away. Back away. Hello? Inner Hal to Haley, GET AWAY FROM THE HUNK!

Still trembling, Haley didn't even have the gut to say anything. She was too fearful that she would either ruin the moment or worsen it. Meaning, she was afraid this affection would head to a bed or she would lash out and attack him. She preferred the latter. A relationship. Yeah, it was something Haley never had. Never in her life had she even kissed a man other than her pappy (grandfather) and her dad.

----------

[[>/////< Cam was so cute. Hal is a moron for not saying anything. I guess Cap'n Cam has her tongue. :P]]

Camry actually blushed when she pulled herself closer, clearing his throat slightly and looking away from her for a moment. Okay, brain, what do I do here? He hesitantly put one arm around her shoulders, giving her a light, comforting squeeze. He prayed someone wouldn't walk in- he didn't need the men thinking he'd gone soft over the first pretty face any of them had seen in who knew how long.

Is that what you think she is, Camry? Pretty? Now that she wasn't trying to kill him, he couldn't help but notice that she wasn't a bad looking girl. Oh boy, Camry, don't get involved here. If there was anything he knew, it was not to get with a woman during war. Especially not when she was one of your officers.

"Hey, Haley," he said, gently pulling her back. "Look, just... take it easy. Don't feel like you have to prove yourself here, alright? It only matters what your generals think of you- and as far as I'm concerned, we need someone like you around here." He gave her his trademark smirk, shaking hair out of his eyes. "Someone's gotta kick our asses every once in a while, seeing as our enemy can't."

[[Bleeeeeh. Short D:]]

At first, she wanted to die. He pulled away. He pulled away! Rejection. That was her first thought. But after a second she recalled that she wasn't going to fall for him. Still, it hurt. She knew he wasn't interested. No one was ever interested. Hell, if her father hated her why would any other man be different.

"Go to hell," she muttered and went flying out the tent. Blinking to try and stop her eyes from watering, she forget that her throat was closing up. Swallowing was hard now and her heart was in her throat. He, just like the rest, wasn't interested. No one was. Why would they be? She was just a pretty little fake girl that was broken in more ways that one. Light filled her eyes and her pupils shrunk. Exhausted, hurt, and depressed, Haley Crest dropped to her knees. Her head dipped down by the ground and she fell over. Laying there, she saw her red hair move with the wind. Pushing her nose into the sand, she screamed some. So what if they could hear? It was bad enough Camry knew. She figured it would be the best way to die. Right there. Alone and crying. Her yellow eyes looked so sad at that moment and the running make-up wasn't helping.

----------

[[T_T Poor Hal. Now she's all emo.]]

Camry blinked as she told him to go to hell and stormed out, confusion crossing his features. "What the hell....?" He sighed and shook his head, getting angry at himself. Damn, he'd let himself get soft on her. Of course she wouldn't want anything to do with him- just five minutes ago they'd been ready to kill each other. What had he honestly expected to change in that short time?

You expected her to retract those hellcat claws, he thought angrily, picking up his weapon. You expected her to be soft. As soft as her body had been on top of that table. He shook his head again, fiercer this time, as if trying to dislodge the little voice whispering in the back of his head. It wouldn't go away. You wanted her to love you, you stupid bastard. Look where it got you.

He stopped and closed his eyes, forcing himself to breathe. "That's not true," he hissed softly. "I don't want anything to do with...." He chomped down on his lip; he couldn't even say it. He left his tent and went back to the forest, not caring where he went as long as he got away.

~~~~~

Arden Blake was strolling around, taking an inventory on things. The men were progressing well in their training. They had just recieved fresh supplies. The new recruits seemed to be fitting in as well.

Except for one, he thought wryly, his thoughts turning to the fiery, redheaded tornado that had taken the camp by storm- and had captured his son's attention. Arden knew Camry wouldn't admit it, not even to himself, but Arden could see something blossoming between the two, despite the explosive arguments that they seemed to be fond of.

All in good time, old boy, he thought with a chuckle. Camry was a hothead, but a good man who followed his instincts; he wouldn't be able to hate Haley Crest forever, no matter how things looked now. They were a good match, he thought, when they weren't trying to kill each other.

Arden let himself think about his only son, a pang of sadness stabbing at his heart. Camry was the son any man would wish for- strong, determined, brave, honest. A man of standard. Arden had raised him to be that way, and before Camry had adored his father. But it seemed now he disliked his father. Camry's only fault was that he was a reckless boy, too willing to stand up for his beliefs. Camry had grown angry and sullen over Arden's decisions to take up the defense, eventually coming to despise his father. It was the only reason that Arden was still the Commanding General- and the only reason that Camry was not. He was so proud of the boy, but he sometimes wished for the child that had called him Dad and clung to his pant leg when he was scared.

Arden came over the hill and spotted a familiar shape lying on the ground, alarm welling up in his chest. He swiftly went and knelt next to the yonug girl, gently taking her shoulders.

"Now, what's this," he asked in his deep voice. He was surprisingly gentle for a Commanding General; Arden had three daughters back home, all younger then Camry, and they were his pride and joy along with their brother. "No need for tears, Miss Crest. Has my son been a fool?"

[[Time for Papa Blake to step in!]]

[[Haley: -still sobbing- Yup. He broke my heart. T________T]]


"A fool would be putting it lightly," she said softly into the ground. "Just what is his problem? What did a woman ever do to him to cause him to send us so much scorn and hate? Did his fiance or something leave him?" Her eyes had finally stopped watering but that didn't mean the pain went away.

"I'm sorry, sir. I'm such a mess. I guess I had better go apologize... again. I swear, I'm not usually this bad. I... he... he... he just toys with my emotions far too much. One minute I think he might actually be a man and then the next, he's pushing me away and saying such cruel things. How can he be your son? You're so kind. So strong. You're like the perfect man. How can your son fall so far from you?" Frowning, she nodded. "I hope you don't hate me for this, but I must find him. I have to get something off my chest. I feel that if I don't, I'll doom us all."

Brushing the dirt off herself, she took off in a dead sprint toward the woods. What am I doing? Who cares if I pissed the little punk off? Ugh, he's... ugh! Stop messing with me. Halting, Haley crossed her arms over her chest. "You!" Her brows came together as a large crease formed on her forehead. "What is your problem! One minute you hate my guts and then the next you're hugging me? Will you make up your goddamn mind! Grow a pair. Either man up and admit you can't stand me or ask me on a date. Don't jump all about and make me look like the fool. But, if your pride and ego is that important to you, use me all you want. I'll be your little punching bag and I'll take all your crap. Hate me or love me, the choice is yours. Now if you'll excuse me, I've got a war to fight in."

Running off further into the woods, Haley soon realized she was lost. Lost and it was getting dark. Fuck. Tugging at her hair, she felt the cold breath of the enemy. This must be their land. Oh shit. Her head spun around as she looked down at what would have been her last life. A cliff's edge was before her and her heart was racing now. Goddammit Hal! Look at you. Camry's got you all fired up and now you're lost. Lost and on the enemy's land. Great. Just great. I guess there is good news though, if you die... he'll never hurt you again.

Slumping down on a large flat rock, Hal whimpered some. Although, the idea of a hero sounds nice. I'd rather not die a virgin and alone. I'd like to love just once before I die. Just a first kiss... that would be nice. Gripping her dagger, she waited in the grave silence that surrounded the motionless air. If something moved, she'd strike. Sure enough, a boot shank ever so gently into the mud behind her. Eyes going wide and then narrowing, she flung herself at whomever was behind her. Her heart skipped a beat as he flew toward it. Death. It pulsed from within. This might just be her last time to see. Oh what I would give to see Camry just one last time... she thought with closed eyes as she moved into her attack.

----------

[[Dun, dun, dunnnn. Now Halz is alone. Again. Dawww, she's always alone. I'm such a cruel roleplayer. DX]]

----------

[[Btw, I think this is officially my favorite roleplay. Lol. I like Haley. X3 I mean, I like Red Alert and the others I'm in, but they can't compare to Haley, Camry, and Arden.]]

[[bahaha, I'm honored to be in your favorite then. God, Camry and Haley are such a hot mess XD But as crazy as it is, I love this too. It's surprising, because usually when I play a boy it doesn't work out so well, but it's a pleasant surprise.]]

"Damn, is that what she thinks," he mused, and would have thought it was funny if it was someone else. Since it was him, it was damn irritating. He sighed, climbing to his feet- he couldn't let her wander off by herself. Who knew what kind of trouble the damn woman would get herself into.

It took him a while, but eventually he found her trail, and followed it all the way into enemy territory. He began to get nervous here, resting one hand on the hilt of his monster sword just in case. There shouldn't be anyone to threaten them here.... but there was always the possibility of a patrol.

he moved cautiously, hearing the sounds of a scuffle up ahead. He broke into a run, his suspicions confirmed- Haley had attracted trouble, that devil woman. There were three altogether, one of them engaging her in battle as the other two prepared to pick her off.

Camry swept down on the nearest silently, and cursed as the man managed to lift his sword in time to block what would have been a fatal blow. The two went at it, Camry deathly quiet as he focused on the battle. His opponent was good, but Camry was better, managing to land a blow that sliced the man's head from his shoulders.

Camry had just turned to face the other when a sharp pain knocked the breathe out of him, a dagger sinking itself into his chest. He staggered, grimacing dreadfully as he reached up and yanked the knife out, then flung it back, catching the man in the throat. He fell to the floor, the blood trickling from his throat, as Camry dropped to one knee, clutching his wound. He pressed his palm to it, biting back the pain as he attempted to slow the blood flow.

Damn, the things I'd do for a woman, he thought, swaying slightly. He wondered how Haley was holding up; he needed to get up to make sure she was okay. No, not for a woman. For Haley. He shook his head almost drowsily and tried to stand, wondering vaguely if the knife had been dipped in poison; hopefully, it was nothing too potent. The sky is so blue, he thought, dropping back down to one knee. Sorry, Haley, you're on your own, he thought almost bitterly, fighting now just to stay conscious.

[[No worries, Camry won't let her be alone for tooo long ^.^ At first, I was going to make him the one sneaking up on Haley, but this seemed more fun.]]

[[THAT IS SO MEAN! *refuses to post*]]

[[? That he's potentially dying for her? Or that I thought it would be fun for him to potentially die on her? I'm lost XD]]

Everything happened too fast. It was when she saw Camry bleeding, that her blood started to boil. Snorting, she picked up her little dagger and lodged it into the back of the man that struck Camry. Furious, she ripped it down the male's back and skipped over a rock and landed on the balls of her feet. Body tucked, she did a back flip onto a higher up rock. "Sorry boys, but you picked the wrong bitch to fight." Licking the blood off her blade, she smirked. Hang in there. Her eyes began to wander, but she forced herself to worry about the enemy and not him.

Dropping to her knees, she sprung at the last male. Slicing just below his knee left knee cap, Haley felt the spray of blood douse her face. Now her face matched the bright red color of her hair. Eyes still wide with panic, she noticed that all this noise would draw more attention. Please don't be heavy! Praying quickly, she straddled her commander. "Don't get hard on me, okay?" Ripping her shirt off, she sliced out a rectangular shape to work as a tourniquet. Slow the blood. That was her plan.

Slowly wrapping the shirt around his neck, Haley didn't even notice that her breasts where practically smoothing the male. Thank god for the wonderful engineering that went behind her sports bra or she might have been a lot more... jiggly.

"Try not to move, okay?" A worried look was given as she slid her hands beneath his back. On the count of three. One. Two. Three. Lift Haley lift! Put those muscles to work!

[[I'll be back later.]]

[[Wow, later was much later than I thought. ^^; I ended up having to watch Inception and miss out on seeing my Bomer. T_T]]


It was rather odd how she was able to do what she did. Chances were that Haley was only able to do what she did because of her sheer determination to save Camry. After all, if she let him die she would never be herself again. Even though she hated to admit it, she was glad he came.

Tears streamed down her face as she carried him about the woods. Looking for the main camp, that would be nice, but she was more concerned with finding a nice smooth spot where she could check his wound. Thankfully, this spot came, but it was a lot further than she hoped. In fact, had she kept walking she would have stumbled into their camp, but Haley was far too worried about Camry to notice the obvious land marks that stated she was near her camp.

"You idiot," she muttered under her breath. "Just what were you thinking? I had everything under control." Lies. They were all lies. She knew her life was in danger, but seeing him so valiantly jump in front of a blade for her, well it pushed the fragile girl over the edge. "Will... will you be okay?" Her voice was full of fear and worry with each word she spoke. Please," she said whispering, "don't leave me."