Falling Stars

Episode-3 :Am I Worthy

Gabriel and Mark were nearing the end of their basic training for the Celestial Elimination Department, but now, they faced their biggest challenge yet: space station training. Their upcoming mission required them to be fully prepared for the unique challenges of operating in zero gravity.

The morning sun was bright as they arrived at the training facility, a state-of-the-art complex nestled in the rolling hills outside of Houston. The facility was abuzz with activity, teeming with astronauts, engineers, and trainees like themselves. Gabriel and Mark exchanged excited glances, both feeling a mix of anticipation and nerves.

As they walked through the main entrance, a booming voice greeted them. "Welcome to the Space Station Training Center, gentlemen! Ready to become space cowboys?"

They turned to see a tall, muscular man with a broad grin and a shock of white hair. He wore a flight suit adorned with various mission patches, giving him an air of authority and experience.

"Name's Hank 'The Tank' Thompson," he said, extending a hand that seemed capable of crushing walnuts. "I'll be your trainer. And don't worry, by the time we're done, you'll be floating like pros and handling space debris like it's your backyard BBQ."

Gabriel and Mark shook Hank's hand, each wincing slightly at his firm grip. "Nice to meet you, Hank. I'm Gabriel, and this is Mark. We're ready to learn."

"Great to have you aboard, fellas!" Hank's enthusiasm was infectious. "First things first, let's get you suited up and ready for the zero-gravity simulator. This is where the fun begins."

They were led to the locker rooms, where they donned their sleek training suits. Gabriel fumbled with his suit's various straps and buckles, eliciting a laugh from Mark.

"Need a hand there, Gabriel? Or are you planning to tie yourself into a pretzel?" Mark teased.

Gabriel rolled his eyes, managing a wry smile. "Very funny. Just make sure you don't trip over your own boots, Mark."

Hank returned and led them to the simulator, a massive chamber designed to mimic the conditions of space. As they entered, Gabriel felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. The chamber was an intricate maze of ropes, handholds, and floating objects, all designed to test their dexterity and adaptability in zero gravity.

"Alright, boys," Hank said, clapping his hands together. "Time to float. Remember, it's all about controlled movements and maintaining your center of mass. And try not to giggle too much—it messes with the breathing rhythm."

The simulator activated, and Gabriel and Mark felt their feet lift off the ground. Gabriel's first instinct was to flail, but he remembered Hank's advice and tried to stay calm. He looked over at Mark, who was spinning in slow, graceful circles, a big grin plastered on his face.

"Having fun, ballerina?" Gabriel called out, laughing.

Mark tried to stop spinning, flailing slightly. "Yeah, just working on my pirouettes. How's your dog paddle going, Gabriel?"

Hank chuckled from the control booth. "Looks like we've got ourselves a couple of comedians. Focus, fellas. Imagine you're moving through water—slow, deliberate movements."

Gabriel found a rhythm, using the handholds to propel himself through the chamber. He felt a surge of confidence as he floated smoothly from one end to the other. Mark was right behind him, both of them adjusting quickly to the surreal sensation.

After an hour of floating, dodging obstacles, and a few accidental collisions, Hank called them back. "Not bad for a couple of rookies. You're getting the hang of it. Now let's take it up a notch."