Gemotions

The relentless rhythm of the train lulled Marcus into a stupor. He stared out the window, watching the landscape blur into a smear of greens and browns. His head bobbed, and he caught himself, blinking rapidly. He’d been traveling for hours, fueled by lukewarm coffee and the vague promise of progress. The research papers in his bag felt heavy.

He finally reached the remote research facility. The air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth. Inside, a woman with vibrant red hair was waiting for him. "Marcus, isn't it? I'm Sarah." She looked equally tired, dark circles shadowing her eyes.

"Yes. You must be… Sarah," he managed.

Sarah led him to a lab. On a table sat a complex device, almost identical to the one he’d been designing. Marcus felt his shoulders slump. He felt the world slow down, as if underwater.