The final countdown had come. The Galaxy Games were approaching.
When Jay arrived at work that morning, he saw the bright red letters gamboling gloriously above the arched gateway of the Composium. They were announcing the Games:
Galaxy Games.
The time has come:
Be brave and bold!
He had never noticed before how huge this portal really was. It was the main way into the premises, and hundreds of people could step in at the same time. Glued to the arch was a see-through material that bent and distorted each time you went through it, leaving a faint moist feeling that lingered for a while on the skin. On passing, the material took on a variety of shimmering nuances, different for every person who used the entrance. All parameters were checked, from biological data to social status, and a voice greeted the incomer. Jay was no exception, and he was bathed in an array of cerulean and azure:
"Good morning, Jay Fleogan, Aspiring Challenger. You are expected in area 4. Enjoy this bright day. Be brave and bold: the Games are nigh!"
After the arch an immense area usually referred to as "the Station" welcomed all members of the Composium. That morning, the countdown was displayed high up in the air for everyone to watch and admire:
Galaxy Games: Day -7
Stronger than Death, Braver than Fear:
Soon they will fight again!
Below the towering transparent ceilings and bright skies, a huge crowd was hanging around instead of heading peacefully and quietly to work. All around the Station, portraits of the Champions and Challengers were displayed, in a continuous stream of moving images, energetic music and miscellaneous languages. Jay didn't know most of those guys, but he instantly recognized Starling's grinning face among the most prominent challengers. Next to him, a bunch of girls wearing the green suits of the Department of Transportation were talking animatedly, their voices drowning in the ambient atmosphere of loud cheerfulness.
"Oh whoa, Starling Kite's going to win for sure. Oh I'd love to go and watch the tryouts, it would be such fun!" said a wild-looking young girl with long blond curls.
"Oh yes, let's go after work. He's bound to be at the Swimming Grounds," exclaimed a girl with short black hair and big, smiling eyes.
"You're well informed, Liv!" said the blond girl.
"Mhh well, he's amazing, isn't he? I mean, he was just stunning at the last Games...I wish I could get his autoprint!" retorted a third girl.
"He was the youngest competitor last time. He has solid chances to win this time. Hey, I have a friend who knows him; she works in the Water Department. I'm sure I can ask her if we could meet him. Actually, she's part of the Galaxy Games team too!" said the girl named Liv.
"Aaaah, no kidding? I'd kill to meet that dude. He is soooo good-looking, isn't he? I hope nothing bad happens to him this time!"
"Ahem, not sure the Games are your primary interest there, Dane!"
YOU ARE READING
Memorize (Book One)
Science FictionThink of a future where memories are wiped away from human brains to help people deal with time and incurable disease. Think of a time when man can live several lives and doesn't have to endure sickness and old age. And think of a man who finds hims...
