[h1][u]Astrid[/u][/h1]

Astrid walked down the alley between the two large buildings. It was a cold night, but she her dress had short sleeves. She loved the feeling of the cool air on her skin. It reminded her of her time back in the USSR. In the US and Britain the days were much hotter, with the sun constantly beating down on her shoulders, so anytime that the temperature dropped she reveled in the moment.

Stepping out of the ally Astrid looked left and right. Not seeing anyone she walked to the nearest streetlamp. It was off due to the blackout that had been put into effect. Crouching down next to the base she breathed out for a long moment. Out of breath she pulled out a screwdriver and stuck it into the screw that held down the protective plate. Two small clinks followed the screws as they landed on the sidewalk. Reaching up with one rubber-covered hand she brushed her head tiredly then pulled off the cover. Tearing off her glove she reached inside and grabbed onto the small covered wires. Tearing at the wires, Astrid began to place the metal end on the skin of her hand. Energy rushed into her body, filling her with adrenaline.

Instantly the tiredness wiped away from her body and she became more alert. She didn't feel like she was about to fall over from exhaustion anymore, instead feeling like she could run a mile or two. Pulling her hand back, she wrapped in the black rubber gloves and stood, brushing off her knees. Cracking her neck she grinned to herself before turning down the street and walking at a brisk pace.

Shortly after walking Astrid stood in front of a pub. It was amazing that it was still open with the blackout in effect, but bombing hadn't happened for quite some time. Staring at it momentarily, a small bolt of electricity crackled through her hair, evidence of her recent charge. Striding forward with confidence Astrid pushed open the door. Immediately she was bombarded with an array of loud noises and sounds. A large bear of a man stumbled towards her obviously drunk. Quickly she stepped out of the way as the man fell out of the door. Smirking she thought about how weak europeans were in holding their liquor. As she reached the bar she called out to the bartender for a Vodka. The man stood there not hearing her, busy chewing his fingernails out of habit or nerves. "[i]Ey nervnyy chelovek, liker, vodka.[/i]" She slipped into russian while speaking to the man, but thankfully he heard her this time and managed to understand enough to get her the right drink. Siping at the drink, she drummed her fingers on the glass quickly trying to rid herself of all the excess energy she had pent up.