AN ENGINE'S WOE

The mechanism sputtered and groaned, its usual rhythmic hum replaced by a discordant rattle. Lubricating oil, once thick and golden, now resembled sludge, evidence of wear and tedium. Embers flickered erratically from within its heart, illuminating the here face of the technician who stood anxiously by. This was no mere hiccup; this was a full-blow