by Karl Morgan
“I don’t understand, Zee,” Dave said. “If the Brotherhood chooses to act against me, there is little we can do to stop them. I don’t fear them and I won’t hide from them either.”
“I agree with Dave,” Fa-a-Di replied. “Let those slime try to kill me. The streets will run red with their blood. I would happily give my life today fighting to protect the Boley on Lagamar 7.”
“Your bravery is commendable, but that is not the point,” Zee interjected. “The Chief Engineers and I agree that a coalition of the willing is coming together outside our Free Society and the Society of Humanity in the Andromeda Galaxy. Most of the constituents do not recognize it, but the Predaxians and Brotherhood are likely managing the process. We believe societies are being convinced to be fearful of Hive technology. As that happens, there is a strong chance they will join forces with the Predaxians and Brotherhood to stand against us. That is why the Brotherhood is coming here. The Society is crumbling on its own, so their work can wait there. Our Free Society will come to be seen as the overlord of this galaxy.”
“The Brotherhood will provide Hive access to help their allies. If the allies are not so willing, the Predaxian agents will use mind control to convince them,” Pua continued. “This will start an even larger arms race here, possibly resulting in a galactic war of incredible scope and devastation.”
“Yikes!” Dave replied. “They would start a galactic war just to get rid of Fa-a-Di and me?”
“I feel honored in a strange and horrifying way,” Fa-a-Di said.
Zee took a sip of the freshly poured whisky and swirled it about in his mouth before swallowing. “You two are just a small step along the road they are traveling. Dave humiliated the High Council, leading to its downfall. Fa-a-Di humiliated the Brotherhood and personally dispatched Emperor Zendo to Hell. Killing either of you would be an act of revenge only, and provide some sense of progress and closure to their leaders. The goal is galactic domination, with the Brotherhood as the ultimate winners in the game.”
“But the Predaxians could use mind control over them too,” De-o-Nu interjected. “Perhaps Altamar Zendo sees himself as ultimate ruler of the universe?”
“He probably does, De-o-Nu,” Zee replied. “However, I can’t imagine the Brotherhood providing any Hive technology to the Predaxians. Our agents listened to the conversation when Valamar Zendo told the Maklakar about Hive technology. While they did reveal some things, most of the critical information was omitted. If the Maklakar attempted to build a Hive with that knowledge only, they would have a giant planetoid that does nothing, and might even electrocute most of the agents.”
“Zee is right,” Dave jumped in. “The Society of Humanity never wanted to give the technology to anyone. They made one exception here, which they came to regret, because the tekkans surpassed their knowledge over time. Isn’t that right?”
“And you haven’t seen anything yet, Dave,” Loni smiled. “The tekkan Hive has been completely redesigned. I can’t believe how advanced it is now. Perhaps that’s a good segway, Zee?”
“Yes, I agree,” Zee replied. “I think we should go to the Hive now. Once you all see some of that is happening, I hope you’ll agree this visit was worthwhile.”
Chapter 19
It had been a while since Dave had traveled in a tube. He thought about little Zak Louk whom he met in the tube on Hive 1008. Talking to that boy had calmed him down from the roller coaster ride every tube journey was. Entering the tube station, he noticed the panel was gone. A pale green light illuminated the room for a second and then turned off. A soft voice said, “Greetings High Consul, Ministers and guests. May I have your authorization High Consul?” Zee tilted his head upward and the green light passed over his face. “Authorization received. Please state your destination, sir.”
“Hive, level one, ring one,” he said. A large transparent tube shuttle entered the room and the door opened. The group climbed aboard and buckled themselves in. When they were set, Zee said “Ready” and the shuttle shot out into the tube system. After traveling level for a few moments, the shuttle turned downward and zoomed toward the center of the planet. The Galliceans and Dave hung on for dear life while the tekkans and Loni seemed totally at ease. “Pua, please explain some of the system enhancements we have made.”
“Of course,” she replied. “The primary upgrade was to the computer systems and power distribution network. The hardware and software were completely replaced with the latest technology. This is where we gained the best improvement. We can now perform twice as much work with one-half the number of agents.”
“Think about that,” Zee interrupted. “Now our Hive only requires five billion agents. The others are now able to pursue other careers. We will be able to greatly expand our trading networks and scientific investment. It also gives us the option of relocating a group of agents to Nom-Kat-Un to help with the construction and operation of a new Hive there. Further, we have the ability to transfer our latest technology to other members of our Free Society. It’s very exciting.”
As he spoke, the shuttle made a ninety degree turn and was flying level again. Dave remembered this area included a massive underground hydroponic farm, but now nothing but rubble from the Maklakar attack covered the ground below them. “I guess the rebuilding process will be ongoing for some time, Zee,” he said.
“Sadly, that is true,” Zee confirmed. “We have been focusing on the Hive exclusively, but now need to redirect ourselves to completing the restoration of our planet.” The shuttle turned downward again and accelerated toward the center of the planet. “But not everyone is pleased with the changes we have made to the Hive, Dave.”
“I don’t understand, Zee. Why would anyone argue with this level of progress?” he asked.
“You said it yourself, Dave,” Loni replied. “The Society doesn’t want other species to have Hive technology. Now that the tekkans have surpassed the humans, jealousy is growing in the home galaxy. If the Society was still functional, they would be a severe threat to Tak-Makla as well.”
“Loni, how do you know what’s happening in the other galaxy?” De-o-Nu asked. “I thought communications were pretty much cut off.”
“The Society sent another Chief Engineer to help this Free Society protect itself with Hives. He has very close communications with most Chief Engineers,” she replied. “I think you met him on Hive 1008.”
“It’s Fola Untor, isn’t it?” Dave asked.
“Wow! It’s amazing you remember him. He was just a shopkeeper on Hive 1008, but I’m told he used to be one of the top Chief Engineers in the Society. He’s been helping me a lot,” Loni smiled. “Right now he’s on Atar Pa helping Serena Vanatee learn more about being a Chief Engineer.”
Dave thought again about Fola Untor. He seemed to know much more than he would ever say. His words were often clouded with vagueness and misinformation, although his skills as a Chief Engineer were unparalleled. “Charlie and I spent quite of bit of time in his coffee shop. He was a gracious host and made a real impression on us both.”
The shuttle slowed and entered the tube chamber and then stopped. “Well, I’m sure you’ll be seeing him again soon,” Loni finished as she climbed out of the shuttle. “Pua, do you need my help or should I go back to the control room?”
“Actually Loni, I’m a bit tired and need to feed Nika soon,” the other replied. “Perhaps you can take our guests to the new chamber and join them in Universal Power.”
“Of course, it would be my pleasure,” Loni answered. “You take care of that sweet little baby.” She turned to the group and said, “Let’s go, gentlemen!”
“Dave and Fa-a-Di, I think I’ll return home with Pua,” Zee interjected. “I still haven’t had the opportunity to hold my new granddaughter! I hope you enjoy your visit and hope you can join us for a celebratory dinner at my house this evening. You are all welcome to spend the night in Ambassador Brewster’s residence or my own. If you prefer, I can return you to Gallicea this evening as well.�
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“Enjoy your new grandchild, Zee,” Fa-a-Di said as the two reentered the shuttle and it shot back out into the tube network. The group left the room and began to walk along the curved corridor. The circular doors of the chambers had been replaced with glass doors. They could see agents in each room lying on flat beds. The claustrophobic chambers were gone. Each room seemed to hold five or six agents versus the old standard of one or two. Bright blue lights came from the ceiling and illuminated each agent’s face.
“The blue lights connect the agents to Universal Power,” Loni continued. “We have also found having a group of agents in the same room improves their morale. Even though their minds may be millions of light years apart, the physical closeness of others is reassuring to them.” Loni put her hand on a glass door and it slid open. There were six beds in this room and the group was startled to see Jake sitting on one of them.
“Oh my God, we left you on Gallicea! I’m so sorry Jake,” De-o-Nu said.
“Not really, De-o-Nu,” Jake replied. “Zee came to see me while you were all asleep and asked me to come here with him. I’ve been traveling in Universal Power since I arrived. The situation is not good. Take a seat and let’s go back.”
“Okay, the experience of joining Universal Power can be a bit overwhelming at first, but I think you will enjoy it,” Loni said. “It has changed since your last visit too, Dave. It’s hard to explain, but somehow it feels more connected, if that makes any sense. To me, the feeling I left my body behind somewhere is now gone. Instead of searching through all of space and time like before, now I feel like I am one with all of it. I know that sounds weird, but I’ll let you judge for yourself.”
“Loni, for your information, I am a Prelate of the Gallicean Church,” De-o-Pa stated. “I have been told that Universal Power may be seen as spiritual. What do you think?”
“I guess that’s up to personal interpretation, Prelate,” Loni smiled. “In the home galaxy, many of our agents refer to Universal Power as the Source. They claim everything in the universe is the product of Source and it runs through everything with a set direction. My job is to manage the equipment and direct agents to look for specific physical things. There are agents here who look for bigger picture realities in Universal Power, but they are a separate unit that doesn’t report to me. I would be very interested in your thoughts after our journey.”
“What journey will we be taking, Loni?” Fa-a-Di asked. “From our meeting, there are many things going on that might warrant a visit.”
“Zee thought the same thing, Fa-a-Di, and Fola even provided an itinerary to do some of that, but since this is the first time a Gallicean has knowingly entered Universal Power, I think the experience should be free form,” she replied. “Dave has been fortunate enough to join with a natural Hive. What do you think we should do?”
“I couldn’t agree with you more, Loni,” Dave smiled. “I will never forget my first visit with Engineer Nok. It was very disorienting though, so I suggest that each Gallicean be teamed with one of us for support and comfort.”
“Absolutely, Dave,” Jake replied. “I’ll take De-o-Nu. I’d suggest that Loni goes with Fa-a-Di and you go with De-o-Pa.”
“But Dave and I always travel together,” Fa-a-Di interjected.
“We will all be together in this room the whole time, brother,” Dave replied. “I hope we all stay together in the Source as well. However, since my experience has been somewhat more metaphysical than others, I think Jake’s idea is a good one.” Dave climbed off the bed and walked over to Fa-a-Di who was looking apprehensive. “Brother, you and I will travel together in Universal Power very soon. I guarantee it. If you and Loni choose to stay with De-o-Pa and me now, that’s great too. Universal Power is the ultimate playground of the spirit. Just try to enjoy yourself, okay?”
“Okay, Dave. I suppose that makes perfect sense. De-o-Pa, you are a very lucky man to be partnered with my dear brother. Make the most of this opportunity!” Fa-a-Di said.
When everyone was lying down again, Loni said, “Now, everyone try to relax. Take a few deep breaths and let them out slowly. When you are ready, just close your eyes. It’s really that simple. If any of you experience any pain or discomfort, just sit up or open your eyes and you will be out of danger. I think the chances of that are very remote, however.”
Dave felt his string of light move out of his body and he looked back down at his physical form. He looked around the room to see how the others were. He could see Loni’s and Jake’s string hovering around the room as well. He moved over to Fa-a-Di and touched his face. A brilliant red string of light shot out of him and zoomed out into the center chamber. Loni’s light zipped out to follow him. Another red string shot out of De-o-Nu and Jake rushed to catch up with him. Dave moved over to De-o-Pa and looked at his face. He couldn’t see any light energy in him and became worried the Prelate has flown away before him. Then he felt a surge of warmth and turned to see the red light wavering just in front of him. “I thought I lost you, De-o-Pa,” Dave thought.
“This is unreal, Dave,” De-o-Pa said. “I see my own body lying there, yet I am here. It is quite unsettling. Is my body dead?”
“Of course not, De-o-Pa,” Dave thought back. “Move over here with me.” Dave’s string moved toward the glass window separating them from the center column. “Can you see the reflection in the glass?”
“I see a string of blue light and another red one,” De-o-Pa replied. “I am the red one, right?”
“That’s correct,” Dave thought. “But this is just the beginning, De-o-Pa. Just think about where or when you would like to go. If you cannot find me, just think about me and you will fly to me.”
“I was just thinking about the colony ships headed to Jupiter while I play here.” Before Dave could reply, De-o-Pa’s string shot out of the room and up the center column. Dave concentrated on the other and his string shot out in pursuit. Star systems and open space flew by as they moved forward at incomprehensible speed. De-o-Pa did not know what was happening and became worried about losing Dave. Dave’s string caught up with him and wrapped around him.
“Don’t worry, De-o-Pa,” Dave thought. “I’m right here with you.”
“Where are we, Dave?” De-o-Pa asked. “It looks like open space.”
“That’s what it is. You mentioned thinking about the colony ships headed to Jupiter. I’m sure we were on our way there when you became apprehensive and stopped. Before we go again, take a look around and tell me what you see,” Dave answered.
“It is open space, but I seem to see a network of faint lines crisscrossing space. They are widely spaced here, but were closely aligned near stars and planets. Is that Universal Power, Dave?”
“I don’t think so, De-o-Pa,” Dave thought. “I believe those lines are the background of the universe and form the highways for Universal Power to travel. As I was told, all energy and matter are created from Universal Power.”
“Can I see Universal Power?” he asked.
“In a way, we are Universal Power,” Dave replied. “The string of light representing us now is not electricity or a stream of photons. It is just our spiritual energy. I believe the rest of Universal Power is the same as us, although I can’t say whether spirits make up a significant portion of it. The experience of the Hive allows us to join with Universal Power, where there are no limits to where or when we can go. Do you still want to visit the colony ships? Just think of them again and we’re on our way.”
“No, I was preoccupied with those people coming to live on my planet,” De-o-Pa explained. “Honestly, I feel guilty I’m here and not on Jupiter to welcome them.”
“A very wise man once told me it is not my responsibility to take care of the universe. My responsibility is to love and care for my family and friends,” Dave replied.
“A wise man indeed, Dave Brewster. He sounds like a man of great faith. I would love to meet him.” Before Dave could reply, both of them shot away. The speed was so rapid the stars blu
rred into a faint glow around them. The glow disappeared as they entered intergalactic space. After a moment, the Andromeda Galaxy began to grow in front of them. They shot through the stars at blinding speed.
Then they were standing on a high mountain. It was a sunny afternoon, and a sea of clouds could be seen covering the planet below the peaks. They stood for a moment watching the range of mountains stretching toward the horizon. A group of men in dark gray robes approached them and bowed deeply. Then they sat on the ground in a circle around Dave and De-o-Pa and began to chant. Dave looked over at De-o-Pa and saw his light string resolve first into a luminous blob and finally into a being of light in Gallicean form. Dave looked down and saw that he too had his human form again. “Dave, where are we? Is this the home of the special person you mentioned?”
“Yes it is, Prelate,” Dave replied. “This is the Mount Alila Temple on Lagamar Ulu. The person I spoke of is Obu Neela, the High Priest here.” The group of priests rose to their feet and pointed toward the small temple near the edge of the Temple. “I believe Obu is waiting over there for us. Let’s not keep him waiting.”
As they approached the temple, Obu stood and walked over to greet them. “Dave, it is a pleasure to see you again! I see you brought a Gallicean friend. Welcome!”
“Obu, this is Prelate De-o-Pa,” Dave said. “He is Admiral De-o-Nu’s brother.”
