Page 173

The weapon selection proves particularly impressive in scope and tactical capability.

Modified assault rifle with enhanced magazine capacity and improved accuracy systems, sidearm designed for close-quarters engagement when primary weapon proves impractical, blade configurations that serve both utility and combat functions during extended operation.

Yet questions emerge regarding systematic provision and institutional motivation behind such comprehensive equipment support.

"I wonder if each Alpha we acquire into our pack rewards them with perks," I muse while securing ammunition pouches with practiced efficiency that speaks to extensive military training and combat experience.

Sable's response carries analytical precision that applies judicial reasoning to institutional patterns and systematic reward structures.

"That must be what this is," he agrees with satisfaction at a logical explanation for equipment provision and tactical support. "Since we survived the onslaught earlier, I guess they want to see how we do with the tools we need to actually protect ourselves."

Understanding crystallizes regarding institutional methodology and entertainment value derived from enhanced subject performance.

Not simple survival challenges but systematic testing of capabilities under optimal conditions, audience satisfaction derived from observing enhanced subjects operating at peak efficiency rather than desperate improvisation with inadequate resources.

The recognition creates a mixture of satisfaction and resentment regarding institutional manipulation and entertainment exploitation.

Superior equipment enables tactical success and pack protection, yet serves audience gratification rather than genuine consideration for subject welfare or survival probability.

My response emerges with dry appreciation for institutional irony and systematic manipulation.

"Fun," I state with characteristic directness that acknowledges circumstances without expressing enthusiasm for continued participation in institutional entertainment and audience satisfaction.

With equipment preparation complete, attention returns to transport considerations and tactical positioning for continued navigation.

Jinx's unconscious form requires careful handling that prioritizes safety and comfort during movement while maintaining operational efficiency and defensive capabilities. The challenge of protective carrying while engaging potential threats demands tactical coordination.

I approach the bed with a determined stride that communicates intention regarding transport responsibility and pack protection.

"I'll carry her this time," I announce with authority that acknowledges previous sharing while establishing current preference for direct protective contact and personal responsibility.

Sable's response carries judicial appreciation for tactical distribution and energy conservation.

"I'm still exhausted from that pleasurable madness, so be his guest," he states with characteristic precision that acknowledges recent physical demands while recognizing tactical advantages of role distribution and capability allocation.

His reasoning continues with a practical assessment of combat positioning and strategic advantage.

"Besides, I have the faster reflexes from afar, so I'll have to shoot the enemy down before they come close," he adds with satisfaction that recognizes optimal tactical arrangement and systematic capability deployment.

The logic proves sound despite territorial instincts that prefer direct protective contact over distributed responsibility.

Sable's marksmanship capabilities serve pack protection more effectively through distance engagement, while my combat specialization proves superior for close-quarters defense and physical protection of vulnerable pack members.

"Deal," I agree with conviction that acknowledges tactical sense despite personal preference for continued proximity and direct protective responsibility.

Lifting Jinx's unconscious form proves effortless despite her complete limpness and additional weight from combat equipment.

Alpha strength handles the burden without strain while her body settles against my back with natural positioning that speaks to subconscious trust and pack recognition even during medical incapacitation.

Her scent signature remains potent despite recent cleansing and systematic preparation.

Cardamom and cinnamon carry additional notes that speak to recent sexual satisfaction and territorial claiming, pheromoneconcentration that announces successful mating and pack bonding with unmistakable clarity.

Yet underneath familiar sweetness lurks something that sends concern through my tactical assessment.

Chemical changes that suggest approaching Heat cycle, hormonal fluctuations that speak to designation transitions triggered through Alpha contact and systematic stimulation. The scent carries potential that both excites and worries, given current circumstances.

Heat approach proves inevitable given recent bonding and comprehensive territorial claiming.