Machina

We gathered at the laboratory from where all the time traveling missions would be launched. I wasn't sure how I'd been tapped for this project, but I have to admit I was excited. I would actually get to watch historic events as they unfolded before my eyes.

Dr. Praeteritum, the scientist who'd devised the method for time traveling, greeted me with a pocket watch.

"Thanks, doc, but I'm too young to retire," I said, chuckling.

He looked puzzled, like he had no idea what humor was.

"No, Commander Clark. This," he said holding up the watch, "is your time machine."