The boys checked. They were kitted out with the latest in arctic combat gear. As well as helmet, goggles and ski-boots, each wore a single-piece snow-suit, that covered the rest of their body. The suit was thin, light, and so comfortable in action it was like wearing a t-shirt and shorts. Its camouflage skin was made from reflective material, which even from a short distance made the suit look a jumble of shapes, and almost invisible against a backdrop of trees.
Zak had read the equipment guide. It claimed the suit was waterproof, windproof and thermal lined. For the junior version, this protection against the elements had always been irrelevant. For a moment, Zak wondered how effective the suits would be once the cheat was activated.
Other features of the junior version were more striking, since its entire purpose was to destroy the illusion of reality. Above each boy’s head hovered a glowing coloured star. The stars were only visible to team-mates, not the enemy. But Zak hated them, because when the bright colours were in his field of view, it was more difficult to pick out danger from the subtle shades of the forest. Ambient music was another source of irritation, drowning out small sounds that could be important.
Each boy was equipped with a rifle. Unfortunately, this too had no resemblance to any real-life weapon.
‘I’ve got a wall climbing set,’ said Van.
‘Okay,’ said Tom. ‘Zak, perhaps you should take the boots.’
‘Will do,’ said Zak. He took the rucksack from Arnie and put it on his back.
‘Where’s our mission brief?’ asked Van, impatiently.
Suddenly, a non-camouflaged figure materialised into view in front of them. It was the Commanding Officer. His age, build and facial expression suggested he was going to bark orders and tell them what a rotten lot they were. Instead, he spoke softly.
‘Hello children. I’m here to explain your mission.’
The boys looked round at each other and smiled cynically.
‘Our mission is to unlock the adult version,’ said Zak.
The Officer was not listening.
‘Take a look at the map,’ he said.
