"Luke's the youngest private in our squad," Rodriguez replied. "We lost two pilots earlier this year, an impressive record given our squad's extensive combat experience in comparison to others with similar backgrounds. I take great pride in looking after my soldiers. Regrettably, we suffered another loss recently. That's when we decided to awaken Luke and Maria.
Initially, we thought about pairing Maria with Luke but ultimately determined it would be more effective to team Jackson up with someone possessing similar skills rather than having him serve solo. That's when you were awoken."
"We're on a mission to avenge our losses and reclaim from the Xenobots what they stole from us - our ideal habitat. Are you with us?"
"Yes, Sergeant," I replied.
"What happened?"
Rodriguez sighed, "It's a story we'll never forget. The Xenobots came, consuming everything and everyone. They devoured our world, leaving no one behind. It was an absolute massacre."
"And we...?" I couldn't bring myself to finish the question.
He shook his head, "We're the last remnants of humanity, stationed off-world when the tragedy occurred. It's our duty to remember Earth and those we've lost and to ensure our survival against the Xenobots."
"At first, they were friendly."
Dr. Li interjected, "It was all a facade."
"The aliens were solely after our resources, exploiting us until we had nothing left to offer. Eventually, we intercepted a transmission that revealed the extent of Earth's devastation. The Xenos had taken everything. It was gut-wrenching."
"Over time, your memories will resurface because you're still the same individuals. Your names, your histories—they're all intact," he said, his gaze falling on his folded hands resting on the table.
"The day the aliens invaded Earth is now referred to as X-Day. You were conscious and boarded the Noah of your own accord months earlier, as we had anticipated a potential invasion."
"The Cognitron is the invention that leveled the playing field in this war, but it's incapable of suppressing memories. So, when they begin to resurface, please inform us, and we'll guide you through the process. If possible, prepare yourself mentally. You can't overcome your memories without experiencing some pain," Dr. Li said firmly.
Sergeant Rodriguez then slid briefing documents across the table. "General Vega provided these documents for Privates Maria, Luke, and John. They outline our mission."
"Our mission is to conduct reconnaissance on Verterra and eliminate any Xenobots we encounter. Ultimately, our goal is to inhabit Verterra. We will employ a variety of strategies to accomplish our objectives, and each of you will play a crucial role in our success," Rodriguez explained.
"We will furnish comprehensive training and state-of-the-art equipment to prepare you for this mission. Additionally, you will receive detailed guidance on operating our advanced technology, such as nanobots, virtual reality systems, and other equipment."
Rodriguez took out a holographic projector and activated it. A three-dimensional image of a sleek, black spacecraft materialized in the center of the table.
"This is our vessel, the Noah, the most sophisticated spacecraft ever constructed. It boasts cutting-edge technology, including Nanobots, SynapTech, and the Multi-Phase Shielding system."
"The Nanobots serve as our extended reach in battle, a swarm of microscopic machines physically connected to each other and neurally linked to us via our Cognitron chips. SynapTech is the neural interface that enables us to communicate with the ship's AI and one another. Additionally, the Multi-Phase Shielding system safeguards the vessel from damage in hostile environments.
The Xenobots are among the most advanced alien species in the galaxy, and they will stop at nothing to achieve their objectives. Our mission is to prevent them from seizing control of Verterra, the planet that will offer a haven for us to restore humanity's existence to its former glory.
Teamwork is essential for our success. You were selected for this mission due to your unique abilities and expertise. You'll be amazed at how quickly you adapt."
As Rodriguez finishes, I can feel the weight of our responsibility creep up. We've been tasked with protecting humanity from an advanced alien species, and our success rests on our ability to work together and use the technology provided to us.
"We have to be strong and fight for what we believe in. We are not only fighting for our survival but for human existence itself. That includes Verterra, the planet that will provide a habitat for us. We will be encountering unfamiliar environments and hostile lifeforms," he added.
As Rodriguez finished his speech, I felt somewhat better. Being part of a team working towards a common goal felt nice, but this was all so sudden.
"Today, we're going to become familiar with the technology. After that, new privates will follow Private Harrison in line."
A tall, short-haired brunette signals to us who she is with a wave. "It's going to be fun, guys, come on," she said with a soft excited tone as she followed the other soldiers.
Walking to the pod bay, the metal walls are cold, and the whir of machinery muffles the thuds of our boots on the floor in the background. The air is cool and sterile, and I can smell the faint scent of disinfectant.
"Alright, this is the pod bay," Rodriguez said as he pointed to the door on his left.
When we walked in, sleek black pods greeted us on our right. At the end of the room is a desk ten feet from the large display on the wall. On the left, there are three desks with computers. Each desk is across the walkway from a pair of pods. The hum of machinery fills the air as we approach our designated pods. Each pod is a firm structure widening at the base. A metal extension wraps over the seat like a scorpion's tail. The pods and room alike are lined with a luminescent blue.
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" Every pilot has a suit and helmet. The helmet rests on a hanger in your pod, and your suits are over here," Rodriguez said as he pointed toward a black metal structure with six suits - each hung in a separate compartment.
Maria, Luke, and I sorted out which locker was ours after Foster, Jackson, and Harrison walked up to theirs. The suit's fabric was cool to the touch. The case tightened when I pulled it up from my feet and finally got my arms into the sleeves. It had a sleek black chest plate with a breathing tube connected to our collar.
The three combat specialists Aki, Belsky, and Davi stood to the right of Rodriguez as we privates listened to orders. "You're to remain in the pod for the entire 30-minute session. This is just an exercise to get your feet wet. You'll be using simulated nanobots, but it's the same as an authentic experience because of the neural connection. Have fun, soldiers. Excited to hear what you think about Verterra."
I walked up the stairs to my pod and grabbed my helmet from its hanger. Inside the pod were a display and a board with only a few controls. The seat was plush and seemed to conform to my butt and hamstrings, similar to how the suit fit my body.
Once I pulled the helmet over my head, some highly responsive material expanded to my head's contours, ensuring a custom fit that felt like a second skin. The glass shield features a smooth and elegantly curved surface. It fits snugly against my face, delivering a clear and unimpeded view in all directions. The small space in my helmet hissed as carbon dioxide was recycled for oxygen.
As the latches engaged with my titanium collar, I could hear the mechanical sound of the locks clicking into place. A holographic display came to life before me, illuminating the interior of my helmet with a soft, azure light.
"Pilots, when you're ready," said Rodriguez.
Jackson pointed at the blue symbol I was to press. I extended my right arm and pushed it. Suddenly, I was in Verterra, a lush and vibrant habitat.
The nanobots appeared before me, a swarm of sleek and metallic machines that seemed almost too small to be real. Each bot was no bigger than the point of a needle, but their precision and complexity were awe-inspiring.
The holographic display captures my imagination, making me feel as if I can almost touch the surface of the nanobots. I momentarily forget I'm still in the physical world. With this state-of-the-art technology, I feel confident and committed, ready to take on any challenge.
Sergeant Rodriguez's voice echoes in my ears as he walks us through the training program. "The nanobots are your extension in battle. I repeat, they have a physical connection to one another and a strong neural connection to you via the Cognitron chip. This connection comes with risks, so you must learn how to operate them safely and efficiently. That is why we are running a simulation. There is no need to be nervous."
The virtual simulation of Verterra is stunning. The experience was euphoric. The green and blue colors were more vibrant than I had imagined. The nanobots move uncontrollably with every thought. They're what Rodriguez said they were, an extension of myself. I need to relax and focus on the direction I want to go.
As we are instructed to think of levitation, the nanobots stir to life, lifting me high into the air. I'm not physically represented in the simulation, yet I still feel the cold wind brushing against my cheeks as I soar higher and higher. I look down at the magnificent view. The water below me is a stunning blue hue, with subtle variations of color around the shores, rocks, and islands. I can smell the salty tang of the ocean and hear the distant sound of waves crashing against the rocks.
"Work on maneuverability by moving your Nanos on an x-axis left and right," Rodriguez's voice said through the helmet's comms.
The mountains in the distance are a deep grey stone, and I feel a sense of awe at the sheer size and magnificence of the landscape. I can feel the nanobots moving and responding to my commands as I direct them, straining to keep up with the intense and challenging program.
"Each of you will have the opportunity to upgrade your nanobots in three vital categories - speed, damage, and invisibility," Rodriguez's voice reverberated through my helmet speakers. "As powerful as these bots are, the human brain has limitations, so we've implemented safety precautions. Each pair of soldiers will have an assigned combat medic. They'll monitor your cognitive capacity to ensure you don't push yourself too far."
I nod, taking in the information. As I shift my gaze, I notice the stamina marker on the right side of my face shield. It's a visual representation of how much longer I can handle the intensity of the virtual world. I feel a sense of reassurance, knowing that safeguards will be in place to protect me.
I see three bars at the bottom left corner of my visual display. They represent my speed, damage, and invisibility levels. These are the keys to my success, and I'm eager to improve and upgrade them. With each passing moment, my confidence grows, filled with purpose and determination.
As I continue exploring the wondrous scenery from above, I cannot help but be fascinated by the sensory experience. The warmth of the sun on my face, the crispness of the air, the sound of the nanobots whirring around me - every sense is heightened, and I feel completely immersed in the experience. The feeling of levitation and the freedom it brings is indescribable, leaving me with exhilaration and awe.
As the training program ends, I emerge from the pod feeling a mix of exhilaration and exhaustion. My mind is racing about what we can accomplish with this technology. Admittedly it was also just an incredible ass experience. Still, I'm acutely aware of the danger that awaits us on the alien planets we'll be exploring. And while Rodriguez hasn't specified the risks of our nanobots, I know with the power I felt, they must be severe.
But for now, I'm focused on the task at hand: mastering the use of nanobots so that we can help save humanity from extinction.
We will face many challenges on our mission, and we must stay focused and work together as a team. As we prepare to leave the VR bay, I feel a sense of determination growing within me. We have the technology, the skills, and the expertise to succeed, but it will take all of us working together to achieve our goals.
We make our way back to our quarters, and I can't help but feel a sense of awe at the scale of our mission. We are tasked with saving humanity from extinction and paving the way for our species to flourish again. It's a daunting challenge, but I'm ready to face it head-on, knowing that I'm part of a team of exceptional individuals who are just as dedicated and capable as I am.
While tiny at only 120 square feet, my quarters offer a cozy and intimate living space. As you walk in, you'll notice the bed on the left, complete with a thin, plush twin-size mattress and a self-inflating mattress topper that comforts my sleeping arrangements. The bedding is soft, with a smooth texture that feels luxurious against my skin.
On the right, a compact kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, such as a microwave, mini-fridge, stove, and glossy white cabinetry that houses all the necessary dishes and utensils. The mini-refrigerator provides me with the essentials, such as three bottles of water, two pre-made microwaveable meals, and some refreshing cola soda branded as "Outta 'dis World," with a unique packaging that echoes our spacefaring mission and an expiration date of 2069.
The metal frame bed sits against the wall, and two thin cushions with oversized pillowcases add to the room's coziness. I can feel the sturdy canvas texture of the mattress topper beneath my sheets, which reminds me of my role as a soldier aboard The Noah.
Though the room is small, I've grown accustomed to the space's intimate atmosphere. I appreciate having everything I need within arm's reach.
As I settle into my bunk, a surge of excitement begins to well up within me. I remind myself that we may be the last hope for humanity, but I also know that we have the training, advanced technology, and an unbreakable sense of teamwork that gives us a fighting chance. With each passing moment, my anticipation grows.
I close my eyes, feel my muscles relax, and release the tension and stress from the day's events. I take a deep breath, and the aroma of the fresh linens fills my senses, making me feel safe and secure. The rhythmic sound of the ventilation system lulls me into a state of tranquility, and I drift off into a peaceful slumber.