Free Nano Contestant - Episode 1: Whatever It Takes by Leif Sterling Page A

Roland stepped inside it. The tech hit a button on his handheld computer and a green hologram sprung up from the circle on the ground. The green cylinder enclosed Roland and spun around three times and then disappeared. The tech showed his results to Rosie.
    Rosie typed in the results on her terminal. “Our scan shows the same. You are completely, 100% organic. I didn’t know that was possible. Next, we need to check your tech viability by measuring your signal outputs.”
    Skylar could tell from Roland’s stiff movements that even though he didn’t say anything, he was not happy with the situation. She stepped behind the table next to Roland. “I’m his support. I’ll help you with the signal measurement. What are you looking for?”
    The tech guy explained that he needed to see a demonstration of signal control and output to prove there was a signal coming from Roland.
    Skylar hit a few buttons on her computer. “Ok, all signals are on.”
    The tech waved a small signal wand in front of Roland, but did not detect any signals. “I’m not getting anything.”
    Roland frowned.
    Skylar went over to look at the tech’s equipment. He pulled up a hologram that showed his settings. She pointed to a section part way down the list. “There’s your problem. He’s transmitting, but your frequencies are set to read droid tech, not our private, lower frequencies. We don’t broadcast publicly. Change these three.”
    The tech adjusted the hologram that showed his signal settings, and then waved his wand over Roland for a second time. The wand beeped for each of the three frequencies.” The tech gave a thumb’s up and then went to show his results to Rosie.
    Rosie quickly entered everything into the computer. “Last thing I need is a quick blood check to verify that you don’t have digital DNA.”
    A med-tech in scrubs and latex gloves came over to Roland. “Hold out your finger please. It’ll just be a quick prick, and we’ll be done.”
    Roland held out his finger as instructed.
    The med-tech handed him a handheld machine with a disposable plastic cap. The plastic cap went over Roland’s index finger. She hit the button and her machine clicked. Then she pulled it off and offered Roland a bit of gauze and a bandaid.
    Roland shook his head ‘no,’ and then just wiped the blood off on his pants. “That it?”
    The med-tech nodded. “Yep, that’s it. No digital DNA in you.” She showed the results to Rosie.
    Rosie entered in the med-tech’s results into her computer. “Ok, it looks like everything is in order for you, Roland. She handed him a small plastic capsule. This is your tracker for the games. Please have your physician inject this into you before the games begin. It will give us your exact location and your vital signs during the Tech Games.
    Roland held up the capsule. He could see a small metal piece about the size of a grain of rice on the inside.
    Rosie smiled. “You are all set now. Thank you.”
    Roland put the capsule in his backpack. “Thanks.” Then he turned headed towards the exit with Lincoln and Skylar.
    Duke had watched all of Roland’s tests with interest. He waved mockingly. “Bye, Organic Boy! Looking forward to watching you die in the games!”
    Roland turned his head to yell something back.
    Lincoln kept Roland moving forward. “Don’t say anything. Just keep walking. He’s not worth it.”
    Roland turned his head back and walked out without saying a word. He let out a big sigh of relief as soon they were outside the building. “Let’s go home!”
    Lincoln smiled. “Get rested, Roland. You’re going to need it, because tomorrow training starts!”
    Roland cracked his knuckles. “I’m ready!”

C HAPTER F IFTEEN :

    L ETHAL

    ROLAND WAS UP at three thirty the next morning. He was excited to start training. He got started on breakfast right away.  
    Skylar walked into the kitchen once she heard the clinking and banging of pots and pans. “Good morning. Any