Random Story :
The Digital Age
Author : Nick Gonzales “You heard they finally nailed teleportation?” …
The Engineer
Author: Mark Renney
Cartwright tends to the machine, the work is all-consuming but perfunctory at best. He cleans the machine and he replaces the data chips. It is vital this is done in the correct order and at the opportune moment, when the machine is able to upload that particular information.
The machine and the house in which it and Cartwright reside is large. It amuses Cartwright that everything is getting smaller, all the things the others desire have become minuscule and they can even choose not to handle them, but simply conjure the information out of the ether. But the machines are getting larger and louder.
The house sits apart from the others and its grounds are sparse and barren, there are no outbuildings or trees, no cover or shade. The boundary is clearly marked by a low level picket fence and only those making the necessary deliveries pass through the gates. They bring everything Cartwright needs and wants, machine parts as required, tins of paint and of course the all-important data chips.
Screens are difficult to use, the living quarters are sound proofed but even so the resolution and volume are ultra-low and distorted. Just a few minutes’ use induces ear-splitting headaches and nausea.
Cartwright’s only luxuries are books and almost exclusively he reads the latest engineering manuals. He is content and happy with his lot and hasn’t any intention of stepping away and relinquishing his position but Cartwright does not want to fall behind. Part of his duties is the maintenance of the house and grounds but apart from almost constantly repainting the walls this really only amounts to more cleaning. Nothing grows or flourishes close to the machine and there are no flowers or vegetables to tend, no weeds to pull or lawns to mow. The house is sparsely furnished and functional but Cartwright is comfortable and has all he desires.
Occasionally Cartwright walks to the edge of the grounds; he doesn’t cross the boundary. But if he stands close to the fence he can no longer hear the machine, its whirring and grinding, its breathing, and he can’t feel the rumble under his feet. He doesn’t take a device but it is enough for Cartwright to know if he did it would work. That he would be able to communicate with the others and have complete access.