Cole's drone

  “Is this where we control the drones?” Cole asked.

  “You guessed it,” Hunter said. “Come here.”

  Hunter first adjusted the height of one of the harnesses, and then helped Cole step into it. Standing in the harness left Cole’s feet just a little above the floor. If he stretched, his toes could brush it. As Hunter strapped braces around Cole’s chest and onto his limbs, he was reminded of the battle suit.

  “You’ll see everything the drone sees,” Hunter said. “Hear what the drone hears. The harness does a surprisingly good job of helping you feel what the drone feels. Just pretend you’re the drone. It’ll mimic your movements.”

  “Is there a screen?” Cole asked.

  “The screen and the headphones are built into the helmet,” Hunter said, putting one on Cole’s head. “If you want to talk to me, just talk. I’ll be right next to you in my own harness. If you want to speak as the drone, hold down this button on your wrist.”

  Cole looked at the button Hunter was indicating. “Got it.”

  Hunter went on to list some of the weapons systems and safety features. Cole listened as best he could.

Chapter 32