“Ellis, is the north quadrant clear?” I asked, scanning through the ten other video surveillance feeds.

“Yes, Carl, just like it was 6 hours ago. Can we get more coffee now?” Ellis Berglin asked, emptying his last drop of coffee by shaking his mug upside-down.

“Seriously, Ellis, it’s important. Total surveillance is crucial to the Corporation.”

“More coffee?”

“Come on, Ellis, you’ve already had 3 cups. I can get you some water or something. If you really want to work outside someday, you’ve got to follow the rules and keep your nose clean.” We walked together to the beverage area.

“But how about you?”

“I’m happy right here.”

“Yes, you’ll be one of them soon though. Word has
it your time is nearly up. Wonder what kind of mask they’ll give you?”

“Huh?”

“Look on the bright side – you won’t have to shave
any more. Is it really permanent?” he asked.

“Yes, managers are immune to disease. The sterilization systems are in the masks installed during advancement, but I-”

“Bye, Carl!”

“Commander, Aslög?”