Canis Lupus lupus, anyone ... ?

Unending BE - episode 46078

With that final selection, only a single cylinder remained highlighted on the diagram, the corresponding "real" cylinder opening to reveal a well-padded interior. Jim stepped easily into the tube, pulling the lid closed as he settled back into the gentle embrace of the fiberfill. "Welcome", boomed a resonant male voice from a concealed speaker near the top of the tube. "The World Wildlife Federation thanks you for choosing the American Timber Wolf. While you're in this form, please take advantage of our special bonus rate of two years' member ship for a single donation of $50 or more." Jim smiled wryly. *Even in cyberspace ... * "As the transformation begins", the voice continued, "please remain relaxed, as overexerting yourself may interfere with the proper functioning of the nanites, due to induced hormonal imbalances." Jim forced a smile, but it felt plastic. Cyberspace or no, this sure *felt* real ... and the capsule was getting *real* dark right about now. "In order to ensure a clean electromagnetic environment, the capsule's interior lights will now be deactivated, and will remain off for a period of ... five ... minutes while the nanites are programmed, installed, and calibrated. If you are wearing or carrying any electronic devices, please remove and discard them at this time." Jim gulped as the tube went dark, then fell silent as a small hiss broke the entombing silence. *The nanites*, he guessed, trying desperately to remain calm as the tiny room seemed to grow smaller still. As time passed, Jim became more and more nervous. *Surely* it had been five minutes by now ... right? Maybe something was wrong. Maybe the capsule was broken. Maybe ... maybe he was stuck in here forever! Finally ...

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Wanderer

Fri Nov 5 03:54:05 1999