4 First Day of Work (1/2)
As Alan woke, he stretched leisurely.The sun had just risen, and light began to stream through the windows in his hospital room.He felt good.Really good.He realized with surprise that he felt too good.
”Good morning Host,” The system's voice rang out.
”System, what happened?”Alan asked.”Why do I feel so good?”
”Host's injury was severe.System entered recovery mode to repair host.”
”Such a convenient thing existed?” He wondered aloud.”Looks like I don't have to worry about getting sick or injured going forward.”He thought.
”Host must endeavor to stay healthy.While system will keep Host physically able to work, system will endeavor to let Host experience pain as naturally as possible.”
Alan shook his head.”That's really not necessary system.”
”Host is incorrect.”The system said blandly.”System's data indicates pain is important to a human being's development and survival instinct.Therefore system shall ensure Host feels the appropriate level of pain.”
As it spoke, Alan suddenly developed a headache.He felt as though he'd gone out drinking the day before and developed a serious hangover.
”System, you're really too considerate.” Alan said through gritted teeth.
”You are welcome Host.”
Alan stood up, ignoring his suspicion that the system sounded smug when it said that, and got dressed.As he did so he found his phone.He had a number of missed calls and text messages.Opening them up, he saw his parents had been worried about him since he didn't come home yesterday.
He texted them and told them he was fine, that he'd stayed at a friend's place after celebrating the fact that he found a job, and that he would see them tonight after work.
He put his phone away and left.He half expected the staff to stop him and tell him to pay the bill as he walked out, but it seemed Alexander Willington had indeed paid for his treatment.As he walked outside he flagged down a cab.He gave the driver the address of the cafe, and sat back.
”That's that new cafe isn't it?In the mood for some coffee bro?” The cab driver asked.
Alan shook his head.”Nope, I'll be working there as a barista starting today.”
”Oh, a barista huh?Like a lawyer?”
Alan looked at the man in confusion before realizing what the cab driver meant.
”No, not a barrister, a barista.”
The man looked confused.
Alan explained.”The guys who make coffee at a cafe.”
The cab driver's expression cleared.”Oh.And here I thought you were somebody important.No offense.”
Alan shrugged.”None taken.”
The system's voice rang out.”Host, please endeavor to become someone important quickly so that cab drivers can no longer look down on you.”
Alan gritted his teeth.”Thank you for that kind encouragement.”