Chapter 4: Inserted
Training Facility
The training facility, codenamed *The Arena*, was a state-of-the-art complex designed to push trainees to their absolute limits. It was a sprawling space, divided into specialized sections, each tailored to a specific aspect of combat and physical conditioning.
Shooting Range:
A 50-meter-long, climate-controlled tunnel lined with advanced target systems. The walls were adorned with sound-absorbing panels to minimize echo and ensure precise sound detection. Targets ranged from static paper cutouts to moving mechanical and digital ones, as well as interactive laser-based systems that reacted to hits in real-time.
Firearms Training Area:
Adjacent to the shooting range, this area was equipped with gun racks, ammunition dispensers, cleaning stations, and safety gear like ear protection and goggles. It was a place where trainees could familiarize themselves with a variety of weapons, from pistols to assault rifles.
Sword Training Area:
A large, open space with a sprung floor to reduce impact and prevent injuries. Mirrors lined the walls, allowing trainees to monitor their technique. The area was stocked with various types of swords—katanas, rapiers, broadswords—as well as wooden and bamboo training swords. Protective gear like masks, gloves, and chest protectors ensured safety during sparring sessions.
Weightlifting and Strength Training Area:
This section was filled with barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells, weight machines, and resistance bands. It was a place where trainees could build the physical strength needed for combat.
Hand-to-Hand Combat Training Area:
A large, padded mat dominated this section, perfect for practicing martial arts techniques. Punching bags, focus mitts, kick pads, and grappling dummies were scattered around, providing tools for honing close-quarters combat skills.
Obstacle Course:
A challenging, physically demanding section designed to test agility, endurance, and strategy. The course included tunnels, rope climbs, balance beams, mud pits, water obstacles, and barriers. It was a grueling test of both physical and mental resilience.
Medical and Recovery Area:
Equipped with medical supplies, recovery equipment, and trained staff, this section ensured that injuries were treated promptly and trainees could rehabilitate effectively
Briefing Rooms:
These rooms were used for mission briefings, strategy sessions, and debriefings. They were equipped with advanced presentation technology, secure communication systems, and comfortable seating.
The Arena was a comprehensive facility, designed to prepare operatives for the most demanding missions. Its advanced equipment, experienced instructors, and realistic training scenarios made it the ideal place for trainees to hone their skills.
***
Vince and Nasiphi sat tied to chairs, surrounded by guards armed with guns. Curl stood in front of them, his arms crossed and his expression stern.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk. Don't you know the rules? Leaving without my permission is not permitted," Curl said, pacing around them.
"Yeah, but Curl, we're not babies, for goodness' sake," Vince muttered, rolling his eyes.
"Silence!" Curl shouted, his voice echoing through the room. An uncomfortable silence fell over the space.
"If you want to kill me, go ahead. But don't kill Nasiphi. I'm the one who took her. Leave her out of this. Now go ahead and kill me—it's not going to replace my parents! I've had everything taken from me. Do you think I care? I fear no death at all," Vince exclaimed, his voice steady but filled with defiance.
"Vince?" Nasiphi gazed at him with empathy.
"What? It's my fault you're in this dire situation," Vince said, looking down.
"No, it's not your fault. We just needed fresh air."
"Fresh air, huh? I knew that getting close to people would put them in an inescapable situation. Look where we're at! Pull the trigger—maybe I'll be okay on the other side. Hmph," Vince said, his gaze fixed on Curl with apathy.
"Kill you? No, I'm not going to kill you. Untie them!" Curl commanded.
Two guards stepped forward and untied Vince and Nasiphi.
"What's going on?" Nasiphi asked, confusion written all over her face.
Vince and Nasiphi stood up, rubbing their wrists.
"There's a time when you're going to be in a complex situation like this, Vince. Always remain calm. I'm quite surprised you still have emotions," Curl said, his tone softer now.
"Hmph! I get you, but I'm a human too. I do have emotions," Vince replied, rubbing his right wrist.
"I dragged you all here for today's lesson. I'm going to teach you how to use a pistol and an AK-47," Curl said, smiling as he put his hands on his hips.
"Wow! I am so not intrigued. Can I just finish my swordsmanship training?" Vince asked, clearly unimpressed.
"Oh, that. Come on, Vince, you know I'm only good at guns. That's why you only know how to use a sniper," Curl said, scratching his head.
"Whatever," Vince said, turning away.
***
In the Laboratory
"How's his heart rate?" Thando asked, her eyes fixed on the monitors.
"It's beating normally!" Zinhle replied, her fingers flying over the keyboard.
"His temperature?" Thando walked over to Nelson's chamber.
"It's stable!" Buhle added, adjusting a few settings on the control panel.
"I feel like everything is going to be okay," Thando concluded, a hint of relief in her voice.
***
Back in the training facility
*Bam! Bam! Bam!* Gunshots echoed through the facility.
"Control your aim and fire correctly!" Curl commanded, his voice firm.
"Sheesh! Honestly, this is not interesting," Vince thought to himself as he adjusted his grip on the pistol.
"Yooh, seeing this in the movies looks a lot easier," Nasiphi said, staring at the gun in her hands.
"Yes! Indeed, that's how things look from a different perspective," Curl added, walking over to her.
"The only thing I can think about is a headshot, baby," Vince said, bursting into laughter.
Everyone in the training facility turned to look at him until he finally stopped laughing.
"Why is everyone looking at me?" Vince asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Well, you can put the guns away. Tomorrow, Nelson is waking up, but we don't know the precise time," Curl said, glancing at his watch.
"Yeah, go on. I don't care. I'm going to sharpen my skills," Vince said, smirking.
"You can't do that without supervision," Curl added.
"Mxm, I'm out. Anyone needing me, I'll be in my room. Hey, Nasiphi, wanna go bathe me?" Vince asked, his tone teasing.
Nasiphi was speechless, her face turning red.
"You're indeed a degenerate," Curl said, shaking his head.
"Whatever," Vince replied, walking away as his figure vanished down the hallway.
***
A Day Later
The chip had been successfully placed inside Nelson, embedded in his upper spine. The chamber hissed as it opened, and Nelson stepped out, feeling a bit dizzy. Everyone who had been waiting greeted him with a warm welcome.
"Sup? Uh, what's this on my neck?" Nelson asked, touching the small device on the left side of his neck.
"Well, that's another piece connected to the chip inside of you," Thando explained.
"Hmm, okay, whatever," Nelson replied, shrugging.
"Since you're awake, let's get you ready and put it to the test," Curl concluded, a hint of excitement in his voice.