The Hanging

I quickly flipped open the Shifter, searching for anything that could help me. I pulled the lever, but nothing happened, other than that same whining noise as earlier and a “Promixity Warning” flashing on screen. I pointed the Shifter at the LXR, which I’d managed to hold on to, hoping for a miracle. The Shifter vibrated. I stared at it in wonderment. Then, realising I only had about half a minute, I quickly fumbled with the gadget, and with surprise discovered a message.

“LXR = immortality drug. Elixir.”

Footsteps reapproached. It sounded like the man was about to enter. I scrolled down.

“Drink it.”

I wasn’t sure I wanted immortality. I didn’t want to see how humanity evolved. I’d had enough of this.

“Drink it, Joel,” it flashed. “NOW.”

Button presses on the other side of the door suggested they were re-entering.

“DRINK IT, and smash the bottle.”

I popped the vial and swallowed the liquid just as the door opened. The man looked at my hand, which was clenching the empty bottle.

‘Suck on this.’

I threw the bottle into the ground, and watched the glorious shards fly everywhere.

‘What… what have you done?’ he roared.

I didn’t know either.