The Gate Hopper Series

Chapter 7

Sleep truly was a gift given to mortals from heaven above. The sweet embrace of slumber while in you're in a warm, comfortable bed was true bliss. This was especially so when one was exhausted both mentally and physically from a long day. Entering a dream land where one's imagination could run wild was something that could never be replicated even by the most advanced technology. And what was worse than interrupting ones blissful sleep? Nothing. It was practically a crime!

These thoughts went through Osmets mind as he stared at the scrap metal that was once his alarm clock. The clock had been placed next to his head on the bed before he slept as he hadn't been able to get any furniture yet. It was a shame though, he brought this one from home.

'Guess my strength really has increased.'

Osmet groaned, placing his head into his palm. He was sound asleep when it rang him awake. His normal routine was to hit the clock with his fist. Normally this would shut up the infernal machine. His newfound strength though? That did quite a bit more. He shuddered at the thought of what a higher ranked hopper could do intentionally or not with such strength.

With a grunt, Osmet stood for the first time of the day and stumbled with bleary eyes to his kitchen. His morning mood soon plummeted further at realizing his fridge was empty. He slammed it shut and winced at the loud noise it made, mercifully it wasn't broken. Glancing around his apartment he realized that he would need to make some money and get this place furnished. An empty room was depressing.

The only thing in his room besides his bed and the kitchen was his Travel Buddy luggage. His dirty clothes from the other day sat piled in the corner. His stomach grumbling forced him to get ready to go out for the day. Today he decided to wear a black shirt with red highlights and blue jeans. It was amazing that jeans hadn't were still in style in the 43rd century. He saw that it was eight in the morning by the time he was ready.

"SAI, got any recommendations for breakfast. Find a place that isn't too far away."

SAI appeared in his vision bringing with it his polite and deferential voice.

"Sir, here is a list of nearby places that are rated well for breakfast."

A short list appeared in the air in front of Osmet. It was disorientating seeing the list in his eye but appearing in front of him. He fumbled for a moment with his hands, trying to scroll down, before he got the hang of it. Fifth on the list was a place only three kilometers away called The Morning Scramble. Puns aside, it seemed like a decent place.

"This one seems good. Book me transportation there."

SAI chimed in response.

"Don't worry sir, I have made a reservation and called for a shuttle. Everything will be charged to your account with the COE."

Content with this answer Osmet made his way downstairs to the lobby. This time no one was at the desk. Standing in front of the Sands of Time he thought of how useful SAI was. It hadn't even been a day since he had met him, or it? Thoughts for another time. Regardless, it made his integration into Gate Station much easier.

Osmet watched the vehicle descend in front of him, it was red this time. He entered and reclined into his seat, it should be a short trip. Buildings, vehicles and the occasional person flew by his sight. It sparked Osmets curiosity once more. So much of what he had seen so far was completely new to him. Why was so much hidden from the outside world? Sure, it would make sense to not know everything but he practically knew nothing, and actually had good grades in school.