The next day was mostly spent learning more about the area surrounding the cabin. The rain had cleared away, leaving behind a pleasant sunny sky. Rarity took a walk around the lake. Somewhat to her surprise, she was able to keep her thoughts on the scenery and generally enjoy herself without stressing out over something related to life on Earth.
The mountain—volcano—dominated the horizon. It did not seem to be close to an eruption, so Rarity cautiously ignored it.
Birds were chirping, and Rarity lifted a borrowed pair of binoculars to get a better look at the treetops. There was a sudden rushing noise accompanied by a ear-splitting roar from the sky. Rarity shrieked and fell to the ground, landing in a mud puddle.
At least it hadn’t been the same one she had tripped into from the loose porch board, but that didn’t help. Rolling over, Rarity saw two small aircraft circle the area. Looking through the binoculars, she saw a helmeted pilot in each. The planes appeared to be quite fast and maneuverable. Oregon Air National Guard was painted on their tails.
Rarity muttered something unladylike and picked herself up. The jets came around again, diving low towards the lake. Rarity wondered if they were practicing something. She grumpily retreated into the cabin.
After a shower to remove the mud, she settled in to wait out the jets. The internet connection had been set up, and Veronica lent Rarity a computer. She had been briefed on the World Wide Web, and had found it not to her liking. She had no credit card to buy things and the people there were mostly disagreeable. Still, it was useful for passing time, even if unsavory things occasionally popped up.
In the course of her browsing, Rarity happened across a phrase that seemed vaguely familiar. She chewed her lip for a moment, trying to remember where she had heard G.I. Jane before. Oh right, it was something Veronica had said. She clicked the link, leading to a website called Netflix that began to play a movie. Rarity wasn’t quite sure what to make of it, but settled in to watch.
Two hours later, the film was over. Rarity sat for a moment, completely unsure what she’d just experienced. It may have been what Morgan referred to as “badass.”
Rarity thought about returning to her nature hike, but on the way downstairs realized she was hungry. The refrigerator still had not been filled.
A small bird landed on the kitchen windowsill, taking a moment to rest its wings. Rarity stared at it. While she wasn’t that hungry, she wondered; could she eat it?
A whole new food group opening up would lead anyone to be curious, but tearing apart songbirds sounded terribly inefficient, if nothing else. A sudden shake of her head cleared those thoughts away, but not before Rob came through the room. He gave her a strange look. “I understand trying new things, but maybe you’d like to experience everything a restaurant has to offer before we teach you to hunt for yourself.”
Rarity’s face flushed. “I’m sorry, this is still new to me.”
Rob nodded. “I recommend you just try the basics for now. Beef is always a good choice. Maybe we can go to—”
“You are not taking Rarity to McDonalds for her first red meat experience,” said Bear, coming in.
“How did you know what I was thinking?” asked Rob, surprised.
“Keep trying. You’ll move into a higher class with the rest of us soon enough,” said Morgan, who had come in after Bear. He checked the empty fridge. “Ah son of a bitch, what kind of fucking shit is this?”
Bear’s mouth twitched, hiding mirth. She said, “Why don’t you three go get some groceries, then?”
“All right.” Rob grabbed the keys, but then turned around with a sudden idea. “Can we teach Rarity to drive?”
“That might be a worse idea than McDonald’s.” Bear paused. “But I suppose she might as well learn.”
“This is going to be just great,” muttered Morgan.
A new turn of phrase that G.I. Jane taught Rarity seemed to pop out on its own. “Morgan, suck my dick.”
Judging by the faces of all present, Rarity decided that perhaps movies were not great things to learn from.
After that, things were awkward.