Fascinated by the obvious effects and strategy, Riaz had noticed a higher definition to his figure in just five days, visiting the training deck in the morning with Shino and Debra Hardie, then returning secretively in the late evening to complete another workout. The elaborate machines had little structural comparison to the ones he was familiar with on earth, virtually restraining his limbs to ensure no injury could occur, the numerous sensors even recognising that his frame had already worked out that day and adjusting the oxygen levels and temperature above the machine to compensate.
Electrical pulses would surge un-expectantly through tired muscles to ensure maximum benefit, soft light beams above the machine moving from a relaxing green haze to flashing amber or red when the technology had determined the particular muscle group had received enough stimulation. The lights would then eventually become green or amber once more to invite the fitness fanatic back once other machines had determined the muscles were ready for further exercise.
Stepping forward, he wore the training clothing provided in the barrack room, his original aversion to the unfashionable wear quickly overcome as he realised its benefits. The all in one, snugly fitting padded material was originally viewed as restrictive until Riaz had used the first couple of machines. The rough texture reacted against his taut muscles, soothing strains and even seeming to massage his skin whilst perspiration was immediately absorbed, his fascination growing as skin follicles were stimulated, the sensation sensuously soothing and tantalisingly drifting from warmth to colder temperatures.
The training shoes seemed simple, but massaged the base of his feet, the reflexology effects revolving and then concentrating on key points, soothing internal organs and ensuring the build-up of lactic muscle acid was minimised. Riaz realised the euphoria that had been gained from strenuous exercise at an earth gym was far exceeded in this large dimly lit room, the chances of injury far reduced, his expectations exceeded beyond belief when he experienced the routines available.
Stepping up onto the small circular control deck, Riaz placed his feet on the indicated illuminated pads, the console before him immediately lighting up and providing the training options, his eyes sparkling in relish as hands rested on the illuminated sensors at waist height, the machine calculating the optimum exercise pattern compared with how he had previously performed.
The display pulsed as he drew breath, eyes widening as he glimpsed two Fahimian engineers adjusting one of the laser rifle simulators nearby, his senses rising in expectation as he looked down at the swirling characters, urging a particular outcome. His defined muscles flexed in rising adrenalin as Riaz jerked his head from side to side, stretching…then a smile twitched across his lips, the computer forming the perfect routine, one he enjoyed immensely.
The routine was punishing, Riaz required to visit every machine, but this would be interspersed with what he wanted most, some of the hardest weapons targeting that he could endure, his talent increasing almost daily. The firing range simulators that would light up between the machines as a reward once he had achieved the exercise goal required were becoming increasingly challenging, the hologram targets becoming further and further away for his improvised laser rifle…a preparation for when they arrived back on earth, determining his proficiency with a weapon would be the best it could be, the new rifle becoming his by choice.
Little did he know that the individual rankings and machine readings were reviewed and studied daily on the command deck, his rising profile and dedication with a new weapon becoming of interest and fascination to the senior Trevakian officers…an intriguing insight into one of the humans that had now signed up.
On this evening he would potentially become suspicious that the machines had been deliberately manipulated against him to present immense challenges, unaware that he was being tested along with only four others on the ship. By the end of two exhausting hours, the senior officers would have their statistics…they would know what he was eventually capable of.
The Upper Space Bar, Galactic Freedom
Debra Hardie slowly lowered herself into a seat facing the viewing glass, her eyes sparkling with emotion as she stared towards the dark grey hulls ahead, the makeshift fleet racing through space at almost incomprehensible speeds. Distant lights flashed outside, the glow from immense engines ahead as she stared round at the stars and almost engulfing darkness, Tregan lowering into the seat by the side of her and placing two large tumblers onto the polished resin table top, the blue liquid seeming to glow as he grinned, ‘The best Trevakian relaxant on the ship…wine I think you call it on earth. Fermented with your equivalent of grapes and raspberries harvested from two moons…one Herrakian, the other from Narisian.’ Both wore snug navy jump suits, the standard attire of off duty soldiers whilst aboard a fleet vessel. Several others sat across the bar, a group of four marines in a corner booth chatting excitedly, the low bar lights the only illumination to enhance the view out into space.
Debra grinned fondly, her eyes misting slightly in gratitude, ‘You show me a different drink every night…that is so charming and very gallant, something I have never experienced on earth.’ She shifted in her seat eagerly, tentatively reaching for her glass and raising it to sniff the contents, Tregan smiling as she took a small cautious sip.
Looking up into his eyes, her own closed slightly, the exquisite aroma and taste surging through her mouth, her eyes widening in enjoyment, lips parting slightly as she swallowed and looked up at the Trevakian fondly, ‘That is amazing…I can feel the alcohol and warmth rising through me…’
Tregan winked as he chuckled, ‘It is a rare, beautiful drink…very favoured for our ultimate marine celebrations…qualification to a specialist unit or promotion. You cannot consume many…maybe two as they are very strong, but also expensive, so don’t get used to
