Cyberspace; The Ultimus Collection

Chapter 1, Down On His Luck

The alarm was blaring. The sunlight was blinding. No amount of blankets, pillows, and curtains could distract a man from the day and his responsibilities.

"That was Weird Science by Oingo Boingo, and you're listening to WCBS-FM! It's 2 o'clock here in New York City, nice and sunny with a high of 68 degrees. But if you're out driving be prepared for a delay as traffic is getting real backed up. However there's no need to worry because we've got you covered with our show coming up soon. But first, here's What I Want by The Living Tombstone, hope you guys enjoy." The show host said with a cheery attitude. Once the man finished talking the song began to blast through the radio, filling Daniel's dirty apartment with noise. Now Daniel had no choice but to get up. With the sun, alarm, and music there was no way he could go back to bed now. He sat up in his small twin size bed and looked around his room. Trash scattered everywhere. It was like Daniel lived in the dump. Hell he might as well, he'd get better rent there. It was so dark that people would assume that a goblin lived in his apartment, that or nothing at all.

Daniel got out of bed, stood, and stretched. His unwashed clothes unleashed an odor that would make a skunk jealous. He made his way to his "kitchen", a small table on the other side of his room, kicking left over takeout and beer bottles on the way. Daniel pulled up a chair and opened up a small mini fridge. He grabbed an almost empty half gallon of milk and a box of store brand cereal. He poured the two into a paper bowl and ate his miserable breakfast with a dirty plastic spoon. When he was finished, Daniel walked over to his bathroom. Thankfully he actually had a full bathroom, not that he could really afford it. Daniel took his shower, put on his clothes, and brushed his teeth. After the basics were done he ran his hands through his dark brown hair in order to style it. After all, today was a big day. Pay day.

Daniel brushed off his shirt and tried to loosen himself up. He rotated his shoulders and bounced up and down in place. He took deep breaths like he was preparing for some big game or event.

"Okay, okay. Easy money, easy money." He whispered to himself. "All you have to do is go in, get tested on, and get out. After that you can grab your check and pay your rent. Sound easy enough?" Daniel stared at himself in the mirror. He cracked his neck and shook his hands. "Alright let's go!" Daniel then rushed out of the bathroom, grabbed his coat, and made his way to the door. He stepped on, and kicked over, some papers and envelopes. All were marked 'PAST DUE'. Daniel flung open the door and practically ran down the apartment complex halls. Hopefully with this... gig he can finally be able to pay his rent, pay off his loans, or maybe even get a better place! Yes today was going to be the day Daniel's life was going to change forever, in more ways than one.