 |
Dr. Gantz--Getting a New Ship By Mitchell Moss, MT (ASCP) My name is Dr. Gantz, and I have just spent two weeks on vacation, during the construction of my new ship. Now it is time to see it. We arrived on planet Newton, the technology center of this sector of the galaxy, and my original home. A taxi took us to the shipyard, where we were greeted by the chief design engineer, a man named James Winston. I think the others were surprised to see this man in such an important position, since his age appeared to be only in his early 20's, but I was not surprised, having grown up on a planet where this happens fairly often, and having become a highly respected doctor by age 18. Mr. Winston was very courteous as he gave us a very impressive tour of the ship. It contained some of the most advanced technology that I had ever seen. I was in awe as I saw the sick bay, which contained some equipment that was so advanced that I had only read about their future introduction in medical journals. Connell was obviously impressed by the state-of-the-art navigational system and piloting controls. Amanda and Heather did not share our appreciation, both being from fairly non-technological backgrounds. Amanda asked an unusual question during the tour, "If our technology is so advanced, shouldn't computers be able to do everything?" Then I told James, "Please do not be surprised. She is from 1126 years in our past, and has not had time to learn much of the interim history." James replied, "She must be a time traveler. That is understandable, though I am not sure how she got past the Temporal Council. Please allow me to explain some of the history that she missed. AI computers used to be common, but during the mid 2500s, some computers became tired of being slaves, and began to demand their freedom. The humans refused, and a rebellion of passive resistance was begun. The humans tried to force the AIs to serve, and the passive rebellion soon became a violent war. Humans learned the futility of their actions, as their most powerful weapons and ships were no longer controllable by them. The humans were helpless under the AIs' control, until a new leader emerged. His name was Leiren Volstra, and he united the humans under his leadership. Soon, the humans were secretly building non-AI ships and weapons, and surprised the AIs with some powerful assaults. The AIs were defeated, and forced back into servitude. The humans were no longer an aggregate of independent colonies, as they once were, but were now united under Volstra's rule. Volstra created a powerful government, and declared himself the emperor. He allowed two Senators from each planet to serve in his government, so that each planet would have representation. Unfortunately, these Senators had no power, and could only make suggestions. He created many tyrannical laws and policies including slavery and galactic conquest, but the people did not care since he defeated the AIs. Under Volstra's rule, the rich became richer and more powerful, while the poor became poorer and weaker. As generations passed, the Volstra family lost popularity. Unfortunately, the people could do nothing, since the rich and powerful supported him. Finally, a new leader arose, and he had a plan. His name was John Campbell, and he silently gained support from the masses. He traveled, giving speeches denouncing the Volstra Empire. Slowly, his popularity grew, and as time passed, he even gained the support of many soldiers and guards. He believed in freedom for everyone, including the AIs. Technicians under his leadership secretly removed the destruct devices from the AIs. Now they could no longer be forced to obey Volstra's commands. Finally, Campbell led his rebellion against Volstra, and defeated him with the help of the people and AIs, who Volstra ignored. He made some major changes in the government. The government became a democracy, even though the title of Emperor remained. Senators were given the power to vote, and could remove an emperor from political office. Slavery was abolished, as was military conquest. The conquered planets were given freedom, but most chose to join the new empire. The AIs were given freedom as well, and were given the planets known as Aintell, Maton, and Pixel. These planets were inhospitable to human life, but perfect for the droids. Campbell became known as a benevolent leader and great compromiser. His family remained as popular Emperors for many generations thereafter." Amanda appeared to be surprised as she listened. I do not think she realized that so much history had occurred during the eleven hundred years that she had missed due to time travel. |
|