Short Story: The Examination

This short story was written by myself. It is not a tutorial, but we all need some time away from tutorials every once in a while.

The Examination

The doctor called his next patient.

“Nixon, it is your turn.” A short slim man who had the appearance of a ten year-old kid stood up and went to the doctor.

“Doctor, what exactly is this examination for? The court has refused to tell me anything about it.” said Nixon.

“It is just a routine procedure for those who have been acquitted of severe crimes such as yours. I am afraid I am too, bound by the law to keep the exact contents confidential, even from those receiving the examination.”

Nixon smiled. He knew that he had gotten away with murder. Having been acquitted from his charge just a week ago, he was enjoying life as a free man. “Lets just get this over with fast. My family flew from New York all the way down here to Central Florida to see me for the first time since my initial arrest.” said Nixon excitedly.

“Well Mr. Nixon, if you would just sit down in this chair here, we have to strap a couple wires onto you and send a few very short currents to stimulate your nerves for our test.” said the doctor.

“Strap me up then! I can’t wait to get out of here to see my family. You know I have a niece who just turned one and is going to see me for the first time today?” said Nixon.

The doctor had a very uneasy look on his face. “Well… let’s get those nerves stimulated so we can get this test done quickly. After we do this, you should be out of here in no more than a few minutes.” The doctor had strapped up Nixon.

“Is this going to hurt at all doctor?” said Nixon starting to feel nervous.

“The reason we do it like this is to avoid pain.” said the doctor.

“Just give me a countdown so I am ready!” said Nixon excitedly.

“3… 2… 1…” and after 1, the doctor flipped the switch. A horrifying buzz echoed throughout the room, and after a few short moments he turned back to Nixon. He was sitting dead in his chair.

The nurse entered and asked the doctor, “Don't you love it Doctor? We finally found the most humane way of execution not to mention this is more legally efficient than any other method of execution.”

The doctor’s guilty look on his face was evident. “I got my medical degree to save lives, not end them.  Hopefully they stop doing this soon. I can’t believe that the Supreme Court found that knowing of your impending death is not humane.”

“You know what they say though. Ignorance is bliss.”

“There is a line that just shouldn’t be crossed. He had a family. He was going to meet his niece for the first time earlier today” said the doctor, a tear rolling down his cheek.

“That is besides the point Doctor. They already cleared out the body and we have a couple more patients before lunch. I will handle Nixon’s paper work. Davis is up next.”

“Thank you.” said the doctor as he went back to the waiting room. “Davis, it is time for your examination.”