Boom!
Boom!
Boom!
—What’s that sound?
Boom!
Boom!
Boom!
—Why is everything dark?
Boom!
Boom!
Boom!
—Where am I?
Boom!
Boom!
Boom!
—What is this place?
Boom!
Boom!
Boom!
—Is anyone there?
Boom!
Boom!
Boom!
—Hello?! Can someone help me?
[WARNING!]
Protocol 3456 Activated
[WARNING!]
Protocol 3456 Activated
[WARNING!]
Protocol 3456 Activated
—What the hell is that?
Hey, this isn’t funny! Let me out of here, do you hear me?!
[Soul transport will begin in:]
5
—What do you mean “soul transport”?! Damn it, stop this!
4
—Help meee! Somebody!
3
—Let me out, damn it!
2
—Heeelp!
1
—NO! NO! NO! Stop this! Let me out!
0
ARGHHHHHHHHHH!
An indescribable pain tore through every inch of Lavitz’s body. He felt himself being ripped apart, atom by atom, particle by particle. His entire being was slowly shredded until not a trace remained in the room.
[Soul transport successfully completed.]
⸻
[24 hours earlier]
—I’m telling you, Lavitz. Valhalla pays really well. The company has hundreds of benefits. A guy like you would be better off there —said Mikel with confidence.
—I don’t know, Mikel… I’m not doing that bad where I am now.
—Don’t be stupid. You’ve been waiting for that bald bastard to make you supervisor for over five years. You’d have better luck if you changed gender, got a nice ass and a pair of big tits. Just like every secretary that’s ever worked there.
—I’d rather throw myself in front of a train than do that.
—Then what are you waiting for? For that bastard to keep screwing you over forever?
Lavitz looked at the card Mikel had given him. He hesitated a second… then sighed.
—I think, for once, you’re right.
—Hahaha! I knew it! I already scheduled your interview for tomorrow at nine sharp. Ask for Camila, she’s the CEO. Don’t worry, I gave you an excellent recommendation.
—How did you know I’d say yes? What if I refused?
—I know you too well, man. We’ve been friends for twenty-five years. I knew you wouldn’t keep waiting around for life to reward you.
—You’re insane, Mikel. But thanks.
—That’s what friends are for. Alright, I’m off, it’s late. See you tomorrow!
After saying goodbye, Lavitz closed the door and sat on the couch. He turned on the TV just as a commercial for Valhalla was playing.
It was a relatively new company, but it already had a global presence. Its development had shocked the entire world. In just five years, it had become an industrial and scientific giant, involved in all kinds of revolutionary research and projects.
Lavitz clenched his fist. This might be his chance to change his life once and for all.
⸻
The next morning, he got up early. Took a shower, made breakfast, and put on a sharp suit. When he looked at himself in the mirror, he felt more confident than ever before.
He left the house, locked the door, and got in his car. After a thirty-minute drive, he arrived at a massive building over a hundred stories tall. At the entrance, golden letters read:
“WELCOME TO VALHALLA”
He handed his keys to the valet, adjusted his suit, and stepped inside.
The interior was futuristic. Holograms of DNA strands, atoms, and cells floated through the air, constantly shifting. Lavitz could barely understand what he was seeing, but it was impressive.
A refined woman approached him.
—Good morning, how may I help you, sir?
—Hi, my name is Lavitz. I have an interview with Miss Camila.
—Ah, Mr. Lavitz. Pleased to meet you, I’m Margare, Miss Camila’s assistant.
—Nice to meet you, Margare.
—Miss Camila informed me of your visit. Please follow me.
They took a transparent-walled elevator. Lavitz watched the urban skyline as the elevator ascended rapidly.
Margare smiled slightly.
—Impressive, right? I felt the same my first time here. I’ve never regretted working for this company.
Lavitz nodded silently, still mesmerized by the view.
When they reached the top floor, they walked to a large office. Margare knocked softly.
—Miss Camila, Mr. Lavitz is here.
—Let him in, please.
Margare opened the door and Lavitz stepped inside. Camila greeted him with a smile and motioned for him to sit.
—Thank you for coming, Mr. Lavitz. Mikel spoke highly of you. He said you’re responsible, driven, and very capable. But I did my own research.
—You investigated me?
—Yes, I hope that doesn’t make you uncomfortable. But I have to know who works for me. There are people who try to steal projects or sabotage others. I can’t afford mistakes.
—I understand. And what did you conclude?
—Incredible. I found nothing negative in your record. Your achievements at your previous job are impressive: you increased profits by 20%. Frankly, I don’t understand why they let you go.
—Well… neither do I.
—Their loss is our gain. Welcome to Valhalla.
—Does that mean I’m hired?
—Yes. Though you’ll be on a three-month probation. If you don’t meet our standards, you’ll be let go.
—I truly appreciate the opportunity. I won’t let you down. Who do I report to?
—Report to? No, no. You’re the new Supervisor of Administration and Finance. Didn’t Mikel tell you?
Lavitz’s jaw dropped. At his old company, he had slaved away for five years without recognition, while others stole the credit. And now, suddenly…
—Thank you so much! I swear I won’t disappoint you.
—I hope not. We reward those who work hard. Margare, can you come in a moment?
Margare entered immediately.
—Yes, Miss Camila?
—Take Mr. Lavitz to his office and introduce him to his team.
—This way, please, Mr. Lavitz.
As they walked, Margare handed him a silver card.
—This is your access key. Do not lose it or share it. Each card has a unique code. If anyone else uses it, both parties will be terminated.
—Understood.
—Did you notice that the elevator has floors marked with a “B”? Those are the underground labs. Your card won’t grant access. Don’t try to enter.
—Thanks for the heads-up.
—Here we are. Everyone, this is your new supervisor: Mr. Lavitz.
The employees turned to look at him. He smiled.
—Pleasure to meet you. If you have any issues or questions, you can count on me. I’m here to support you.
Everyone greeted him politely, then went back to work.
Margare led him to his office. It was spacious, modern, with a stunning view of the city.
—This is… my office? Seriously!?
—Make yourself at home. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to reach out.
—Thank you, Margare.
When she left, Lavitz sat in his new chair, looked around in disbelief, and laughed softly.
—Hahaha… This… this is a dream.