Ep 13. Recruit

In season 1, episode 13 of La Femme Nikita titled "Recruit," viewers are given a peek into the process of recruiting new agents for Section One. It starts with the team overseeing a training exercise for potential recruits which tests their physical and mental abilities. This exercise is meant to simulate a mission in the field, and only those who can prove themselves worthy are selected to take the next step.

The first step of the selection process is to obtain the necessary clearances, background checks, and medical exams. Those who qualify are then sent to a special facility for psychological evaluation. This is where viewers see the recruits undergo a series of tests to determine their personality traits, including their strengths and weaknesses.

Once a recruit gains approval from the facility, they are assigned a mentor from Section One. Michael, Nikita's handler, is assigned to be her mentor and guide her through the selection process. Throughout the episode, Michael and Nikita grow closer as he tries to help her understand the complicated world of Section One.

One specific task that the recruits must complete is to get six "classics" from Section One's library to get to the next stage. They are asked to pick from eight classics, including works by Shakespeare, Kafka, and Hemmingway. It is a test designed to not only see which works they choose, but how they go about obtaining them. Tensions run high as smuggling out the materials from the forbidden library is against their rules.

Another part of the process involves the recruits getting turned against one another. They are asked to name a classmate who they believe is not fit to continue with the program. Their answers will ultimately be used by the program's evaluators to select the most promising recruits.

Despite the intense competition and challenges, Nikita manages to push through and make it to the final round of selection. The emotional toll of the selection process takes a toll on the recruits, and many are seen breaking down, including Nikita's friend who she had been working closely with.

The final task that the recruits are asked to complete involves a terrorist attack simulation. The goal is to see how they react under pressure and how well they work together as a team. Nikita proves herself to be an excellent leader during the simulation, impressing her mentor Michael.

Ultimately, only a few recruits are selected to join Section One, with Nikita being one of them. The episode ends with her being officially welcomed to the team and given an official code name.

"Recruit" is a thrilling episode of La Femme Nikita that explores the process of recruiting new agents for Section One. The intense competition and pressure put on the recruits make for a fascinating storyline. It also allows viewers to see Nikita's growth and development throughout the selection process, as well as her relationship with Michael, her mentor.