I am writing this on the fly and will try to get everything done by the end of the long weekend. Keep stopping by because the final product should be good, I almost have the ending in mind lol (this was written about a month ago so don't believe the hype)
All images used were not by permission. I stumbled onto his work and created a story to what it represented to me. I hope Tyler West and the crew at West Studio don`t sue me. I have nothing anyways but my imagination...
I bring you Èmpty Part 1 (The scenario)
The town streets lay silent as stray animals roamed the alleyways and roads. It is dusk, the sky a scarlet red glowing over the quiet community. A flag waves from every house, a symbol of the new earth. In the distance is the remains of an old city, old New York. The only life remaining there is the plants that adapted to the toxins. The sky is littered with air purifiers to recycle and clean the effects of global warming, a soft hum from the working fans emits in the distance.
The war over Independence was won 10 years ago when the last of the old corporations and governments laid their arms down and the overturn of the last king was done. Humanity had taken back the reigns from the corruption that was killing the lands and their children.
Off in the distance the roars of a large copters overtake the sounds of purifiers streaking the sky. We follow these sounds as we glide along farmers fields where bio-stations collect Sun power to run the algae oxygen emitters to help combat the old kingdoms pollution.
The smell is strong of rot, farmers tilling the lands replacing as much infected soil as they can., Trying to break the damage done from GMO crops planted without complete study. The last crops were burnt 12 years ago and the start of the great revolution. Sterilization had started slowly in the early 2010 era but the affects of global eugenics were not noticed until 2022, after the death of some computer tycoon did the truth finally come out..
With the worlds economy in bankruptcy and global unrest, the leaders and figureheads of the 1% gathered their resources and created a new city, called Olympus. A stronghold of towers and walls, automated resources built with an AI defense system. A killing machine. After the end of the revolution most of the armies had disbanded and joined with the peoples victory. So those rats on a sinking ship hired mercenaries to help fend off the masses and to keep to their survival. Money was no object and morals were lost in translation.
And the Great War Began...
The battles waged were on the surface, as the weak and hurt moved to great cities built in desperation underground. As harsh as the realities were faced, the people worked together for the survival of humanity and the belief of freedom without control. The population dropped to 4 billion, the losses we too many.
The greed had twisted the minds of those who lived in the high city of Olympus, they used chemical weapons that were designed to melt the flesh off bone. To blind and cause diseases that spread far and wide. They already owned most of the water supply, so when the poisons came it was already too late for the people to notice. They almost had defeated humanity... But we are stronger in the face of oppression.
The war ravaged the lands and the people, the battle seemingly never ending. Great machines were built to fight the armies of the 1%. Built off of recycled material that littered the ground. All of humanities great minds gathered to share their strengths and knowledge, to bring down the enemy. With great planning and debate stemming in the great halls of the heads of the revolution, with labor going to create great weapons to fight these last failing corporations, the war was won by none of them but by the love of a child.
When the head of the 1% Edger Monsanto lost his daughter and his wife unable to give birth, he went to genetic cloning to bring back his baby. With the head of his bio-unit he was able to recreate Cynthia in a vat made with samples of hair and skin. The memories we copied before she passed away and with an embedded chip they were able to download her thoughts and dreams into this artificially created husk.
Cynthia was called a marvel of mankind's progress, however when she found out what happened to the real Cynthia, she saw herself more a Frankenstein then a gift from man. She begged her father to end the war, she showed him how all this manipulation of nature is the cause of her death and the disease that is growing inside her mother. Then with a final plea she jumped off the high tower, in defiance of this new life she was given. In her final note she stated that if she was not able to do anything to change the situation with her new gift of life, then there was nothing worth living for. After her death, the heads of Olympus had called defeat, and laid down their arms. The battle had ended.
The cities thrived in the deeper swamps and undergrounds. Old remedies and nature were looked at for salvation of mankind. Ancient medicines helping to stop the cancers and tumors inflicted from the toxins. After all these years mankind was beginning to grow strong again. The war had crippled the world but not the human spirit.
The great houses and factions of new Earth had gathered to the central plane of old North Dakota to discuss the future. Because of the damage for centuries of pollution and man made disasters, Earth was dying. Mankind as much as it tried could not reverse the damage done. The people used what last resources they had left to create massive spaceships to load the remaining people of Earth.
Many stayed behind, not wanting to give up. But by the time the ships were ready, only a quarter of the population remained. All over the world people awaited the day of boarding to take them to a new found world at the edge of the Galaxy.
A large crowd gathers in front of a large podium with a 100 foot screen behind and cameras floating all around. The people wave as the elected representative of all 13 houses takes the stage. Jets streak overhead for dramatic effect. All around the world every TV, monitor and cell are displaying this great speech that is about to commence. The crowds goes silent as he takes the mic...
People of new earth, today we start the boarding of every person willing to find a new home outside of our once beautiful world. Trucks will be at all loading depots to take you to your designated community ship. You will be travelling together so remember to keep that unity and strength alive. Give love where it is needed most.
I know what we are leaving behind and for some it is admitting defeat, however the Earth has only a few hundred more years left and we must look to our survival. Try not to think of this as giving up but trying anew. We are leaving a legacy behind that will be remembered, so we will never make the same mistakes again. It will be hard to leave our cities and towns, after so much blood lost to save them but we must do what we can. Those who are staying will also be remembered for the bravery to face the coming storm.
Those brave fighting people who have chosen to stay please remember that we are leaving enough ships for your flight if you ever choose to leave. We cannot force you, but we must put the survival of every creature first. On board will be samples of every earth creature, so we can take our world with us to rebuild again.
No matter where you are, no matter what ship you have been given, remember that you are not alone. We are all here for each other. That together we can face any enemy or situation by working together.
In one week we will be in suspended animation at the caring hands of Team Leader Regan Wilder and his crew. We trust that they will get us there safe and sound. I will not take up all your time, as many things need to get ready first before we make this leap. Either we will be remembered in history or we become it.
All around the world ships we leaving Earth as those who stayed watch from faded bunkers and abandoned cities and empty communities.
as the ships lifted off...
Passengers and crew of new Earth and all 13 ships, this is your Captain. From the moment we lift off we would like all passengers in their sleep chambers, the less food and oxygen we use the better chances we have for survival, so only those with permits are permitted to be awake during the flight.
Those who are awake please buckle yourselves for first drop into warp. there will be screens to monitor the view outside for those who would like to see.
Remember that we are soaring almost as fast as the speed of light so many of those sights will be altered so just don`t freak and no your not tripping balls. Thank you for flying the yellow chicken, a name I made myself and have a great sleep folks...
I will see you on the other side.
5 4 3 2 1
I bring you Èmpty Part 2
http://www.artbylena.com/original-painting/264/the-red-giant.html
A tube sits in a lavish apartment style suit. Bright colors, large view screen and a set of controls on the wall. Antique magazines and novels line book shelves, pictures of a family of three move in living frames. Inside the tube is a man emerged in blue cryogel with a soft light above his head. Late 30's light build, a slight beard glistens from the gel. Nothing stirs within the cabin, recycled air blows through the ship systems.
Within his mind is darkness, empty nourishing sleep. Through bone conduction, wired for only his mind and hearing. A soft female whisper forms in his mind.
A tube sits in a lavish apartment style suit. Bright colors, large view screen and a set of controls on the wall. Antique magazines and novels line book shelves, pictures of a family of three move in living frames. Inside the tube is a man emerged in blue cryogel with a soft light above his head. Late 30's light build, a slight beard glistens from the gel. Nothing stirs within the cabin, recycled air blows through the ship systems.
Within his mind is darkness, empty nourishing sleep. Through bone conduction, wired for only his mind and hearing. A soft female whisper forms in his mind.
"Hello?"
Where am I...
Hello!
A loud scream shakes within his mind.
Hello...
Computer?
Computer?
He tries to lift his hands in this tightly fit tube, a look of danger comes within his eye, like something wild has been unleashed.
His fists slam the walls of this transparent prison.
Over and over again, his fists take on a rhythm as small faint cracks start to appear.
His thoughts are not full of panic, he knows that he can breathe liquid oxygen within his lungs.
The fear is being left alone, locked by himself, no warmth to lay beside, dying alone in empty space.
Just as the cracks appear he hears a soft "help me" within his mind and the prisoner breaks free.
Floating in vastness of deep space the captain covers his eyes as his body slowly spins in its weightlessness.
All alone.
Help me... He hears again.
He opens his eyes and before him lies the image of a black hole devouring a dying star, the colors divine.
Within its swirling center shines a light so brilliant.
The last call of this unknown world.
A flash of infinite energy returning back into the cosmos.
A small beeping noise starts to emit from his ears, flashing a multicolored spectrum of lights. The computer designed to speak to him through thought patters and remote communication built into implanted mikes within his body and mind asks if he is all right.
What happened, I thought I wasn't able to dream in these things?
There seems to be a malfunction, within a few moments I will release the liquid and you will need to release what remaining fluids you have.
I hate this part, the captain thinks.
Fluid is flushed from the compartment within the floor, his body shakes as it releases the fluid within his lungs.
He coughs and chokes as the remaining fluids spill out.
The lift tube raises itself and the compartments start to unseal.
Help me once more whispers in his mind.
Thanks to http://www.gfxtra.com/ for this
What was that computer?
There seems to be a malfunction, within a few moments I will release the liquid and you will need to release what remaining fluids you have.
Why do they try to make you sound human?
Because a logical computer mind can't grasp the concept of humanity, so they have to dumb us down.
Ok smart ass, give me my report.
First all crew and passengers are all safe within all 13 ships, they are still in cryo sleep.
I noticed that your brain waves were spiking and that your dream patterns had awaken and I stopped all ships to do a system wide search to find the malfunction.
Diagnostics display that there is nothing wrong but this one incident.
Where are we?
We have been traveling for 3 years and we will be arriving upon Neptune in three days.
Ok set up inertia dampeners in all staff areas and start the gravitational cycle so I can get out of this bloody straw.
It has already been done, just waiting for gravity to balance itself.
Open retina screen and let me see it.
Yes Captain.
It's so Blue...
Image by http://the-undrawable.deviantart.com/
Chapter 2
Awakenings.
The energy field is still at 100% peak performance, since the ships run on solar radiation we will have enough power to outlive many generations. With cryo sleep taking one day for every five years, the inhabitants of the ship can live thousands of years within a few months, leaving bots to tend to food growth and storage. Plants and oxygen algae vats are working properly, we have preserved already 20 years worth of rations for each ship.
Ok enough with the reports, let me hear some music.
How about something classical. Open up windows to my station and turn on the steam shower.
Beethoven's Fifth Symphony slowly starts to play within his mind.
No computer not so classic, give me Alice in Chains, I stay away.
Thank you.
As the windows open up he stands there looking at the wondrous view.
Computer, coffee please. Make it a little extra sugar then my usual.
I have adjusted it to your thoughts already, didn't you even study my user guide?
I went to school for two years.
Yes but going to school and studying are two different things.
Yea I studied, I just might have skipped a few things, and forgotten a lot more.
And you were the best choice to be captain?
They really went big to save the human species.
Computer, shut up and turn this part up.
I stay away...
He takes off his shorts and walks over to the steam shower to remove the cryogel, the music changes into more Alice in Chains, this one No excuses.
The steam shower turns off as he walks into the personal gym.
Computer, awake my crew. Lets get these boats together and let some of these people stretch their legs.
Already done Captain, Dylan is wondering why you are disturbing his beauty sleep?
Tell him with a mug like his, their isn't enough time in all our lifetimes to accomplish that.
Shall I make up at wittier joke then that weak one Sir?
Computer, you're starting to get on my nerves.
I am built into your nerves sir.
Thanks for reminding me.
Turn on the gravity weights, make each bell 220Lb and change the music to something more upbeat.
Yes captain.
Chapter 3
Stir Crazy
I always feel like I had just fallen asleep in the bath when I wake from these stupid things, Dylan says as he starts unbuckling himself from the tight harness.
Not even two minutes from waking and he starts bitching, Donavan mumbles as he climbs out of his seat.
I'm not bitching, I am just expressing my opinions.
Are we going to hear about your opinions through out this entire mission?
Yes, Dylan says as he jumps from the bed.
I am going to make sure to tell you about everything that I am feeling, counselor.
Counselor is just a title, I really don't get enough to listen to your problems all day.
Why don't you do like every other person and hide your feeling with syntholol?
You don't think its too early to have a drink?
Donavan shakes his head, this is going to be a long trip.
Meryl lou, chief weapons specialist walks into the room.
Are you two going to sit around here all day or you going to move you asses, Captain wants to see us in 20.
In a weaker voice Dylan mimics her, Move your asses, Captain want to see us.
Ass kisser.
So walks over to him slowly, taking a slow nibble on her lip. she glides over and whispers gently in his ear "If you don't hurry things up I am moping the floor with your ass, do you get me Findley?
Yes Ma'am.
Then hurry the fuck up, she says as she turns to walk away. and Donavan?
Yes?
Drop the smile and stop looking at my ass, you're on the clock also.
They both look at each other and smiled. They have been together since the end of the great war. The fearless leader and his crew had saved the planet from bloodshed by coming to a treaty to drop arms in the pursuit of saving the human race. With both sides working together they used up the rest of resources available and built the 13 ships, each holding 1 million sleeping humans on a quest to find a new home.
At a large table sat 13 chairs, one for each Captain of the ships. Dylan has his feet on the console, Meryl is picking the gun grease from her finger nails and Donavan munches on a bagel.
Captain on deck, comes the com from the ships computers. Each member has its own designed hearing and voice reconnection. They stand as the Captain enters the room.
Good to see you guys, and Dylan. Light chuckles come from the crew.
Computer screen, Regan thinks.
We are just coming up to Neptune now and awaiting communication from Earth. It has been three years and we are hoping to hear so good news. Let us hope that earths projections were wrong and the Earth is thriving.
We are just doing a quick two week maintenance and scout crew. We will be taking some samples of minerals from asteroids so we need you three to get into gear and go scout us some great rocks. And Meryl, please no target practice today. The ship needs as much metal as we can get to keep this boat in good repair.
Awwe Captain, can't I shoot at ice rocks?
Well if the computer wants a sample then no, but if it thinks it is alright then take a few shots, you have been sleeping awhile. So lets get a move on, I want to see you in those fliers in an hour, go eat.
As the scout ships lift off, a signal from the computer tells the Captain that the signal from earth has been downloaded. Bring it on retina screen.
Chapter 4
Home?
This is Lord Dorda, since the days of the Arc's leaving earth, riots and wars have erupted through out the planet. We have turned back to our basic natures and groups of citizens have banded together to protect their communities.
We lost a large portion of California when a plasma bomb exploded in the city core. A faction know only by their bright blue colors worn have taken responsibility, claiming it was against the war ships being created at Carson City Shipping Docks. The target was a military complex built over the Pacific ocean, many lives were lost.
Armies have moved leaving some cities defenseless. Three ships have been successfully launched just this year, they will join you in a couple years behind, the rest have been sabotaged. It seems someone on the inside decided our fate was to be left here, to see first hand the damage we caused and the outcome that negligence creates.
The storms have gotten a lot worse. With the stopping of all weather control manipulation it seems mother nature has decided to wreak revenge on us. And I don't blame her. We are witnessing storms up to 3000 in diameter, with winds up to 220 miles an hour.
Our last hope is with you, make sure you save these images and teach the truth about our history. How we took our planet for granted and killed ourselves in the process.
And let us learn from our mistakes.
Over the speaker implants hear the captain. Did you guys get that?
Yes, Captain
His fists slam the walls of this transparent prison.
Over and over again, his fists take on a rhythm as small faint cracks start to appear.
His thoughts are not full of panic, he knows that he can breathe liquid oxygen within his lungs.
The fear is being left alone, locked by himself, no warmth to lay beside, dying alone in empty space.
Just as the cracks appear he hears a soft "help me" within his mind and the prisoner breaks free.
Floating in vastness of deep space the captain covers his eyes as his body slowly spins in its weightlessness.
All alone.
Help me... He hears again.
He opens his eyes and before him lies the image of a black hole devouring a dying star, the colors divine.
Within its swirling center shines a light so brilliant.
The last call of this unknown world.
A flash of infinite energy returning back into the cosmos.
A small beeping noise starts to emit from his ears, flashing a multicolored spectrum of lights. The computer designed to speak to him through thought patters and remote communication built into implanted mikes within his body and mind asks if he is all right.
What happened, I thought I wasn't able to dream in these things?
There seems to be a malfunction, within a few moments I will release the liquid and you will need to release what remaining fluids you have.
I hate this part, the captain thinks.
Fluid is flushed from the compartment within the floor, his body shakes as it releases the fluid within his lungs.
He coughs and chokes as the remaining fluids spill out.
The lift tube raises itself and the compartments start to unseal.
Help me once more whispers in his mind.
What was that computer?
There seems to be a malfunction, within a few moments I will release the liquid and you will need to release what remaining fluids you have.
Why do they try to make you sound human?
Because a logical computer mind can't grasp the concept of humanity, so they have to dumb us down.
Ok smart ass, give me my report.
First all crew and passengers are all safe within all 13 ships, they are still in cryo sleep.
I noticed that your brain waves were spiking and that your dream patterns had awaken and I stopped all ships to do a system wide search to find the malfunction.
Diagnostics display that there is nothing wrong but this one incident.
Where are we?
We have been traveling for 3 years and we will be arriving upon Neptune in three days.
Ok set up inertia dampeners in all staff areas and start the gravitational cycle so I can get out of this bloody straw.
It has already been done, just waiting for gravity to balance itself.
Open retina screen and let me see it.
Yes Captain.
It's so Blue...
Chapter 2
Awakenings.
The energy field is still at 100% peak performance, since the ships run on solar radiation we will have enough power to outlive many generations. With cryo sleep taking one day for every five years, the inhabitants of the ship can live thousands of years within a few months, leaving bots to tend to food growth and storage. Plants and oxygen algae vats are working properly, we have preserved already 20 years worth of rations for each ship.
Ok enough with the reports, let me hear some music.
How about something classical. Open up windows to my station and turn on the steam shower.
Beethoven's Fifth Symphony slowly starts to play within his mind.
No computer not so classic, give me Alice in Chains, I stay away.
Thank you.
As the windows open up he stands there looking at the wondrous view.
Computer, coffee please. Make it a little extra sugar then my usual.
I have adjusted it to your thoughts already, didn't you even study my user guide?
I went to school for two years.
Yes but going to school and studying are two different things.
Yea I studied, I just might have skipped a few things, and forgotten a lot more.
And you were the best choice to be captain?
They really went big to save the human species.
Computer, shut up and turn this part up.
I stay away...
He takes off his shorts and walks over to the steam shower to remove the cryogel, the music changes into more Alice in Chains, this one No excuses.
The steam shower turns off as he walks into the personal gym.
Computer, awake my crew. Lets get these boats together and let some of these people stretch their legs.
Already done Captain, Dylan is wondering why you are disturbing his beauty sleep?
Tell him with a mug like his, their isn't enough time in all our lifetimes to accomplish that.
Shall I make up at wittier joke then that weak one Sir?
Computer, you're starting to get on my nerves.
I am built into your nerves sir.
Thanks for reminding me.
Turn on the gravity weights, make each bell 220Lb and change the music to something more upbeat.
Yes captain.
Chapter 3
Stir Crazy
I always feel like I had just fallen asleep in the bath when I wake from these stupid things, Dylan says as he starts unbuckling himself from the tight harness.
Not even two minutes from waking and he starts bitching, Donavan mumbles as he climbs out of his seat.
I'm not bitching, I am just expressing my opinions.
Are we going to hear about your opinions through out this entire mission?
Yes, Dylan says as he jumps from the bed.
I am going to make sure to tell you about everything that I am feeling, counselor.
Counselor is just a title, I really don't get enough to listen to your problems all day.
Why don't you do like every other person and hide your feeling with syntholol?
You don't think its too early to have a drink?
Donavan shakes his head, this is going to be a long trip.
Meryl lou, chief weapons specialist walks into the room.
Are you two going to sit around here all day or you going to move you asses, Captain wants to see us in 20.
In a weaker voice Dylan mimics her, Move your asses, Captain want to see us.
Ass kisser.
So walks over to him slowly, taking a slow nibble on her lip. she glides over and whispers gently in his ear "If you don't hurry things up I am moping the floor with your ass, do you get me Findley?
Yes Ma'am.
Then hurry the fuck up, she says as she turns to walk away. and Donavan?
Yes?
Drop the smile and stop looking at my ass, you're on the clock also.
They both look at each other and smiled. They have been together since the end of the great war. The fearless leader and his crew had saved the planet from bloodshed by coming to a treaty to drop arms in the pursuit of saving the human race. With both sides working together they used up the rest of resources available and built the 13 ships, each holding 1 million sleeping humans on a quest to find a new home.
At a large table sat 13 chairs, one for each Captain of the ships. Dylan has his feet on the console, Meryl is picking the gun grease from her finger nails and Donavan munches on a bagel.
Captain on deck, comes the com from the ships computers. Each member has its own designed hearing and voice reconnection. They stand as the Captain enters the room.
Good to see you guys, and Dylan. Light chuckles come from the crew.
Computer screen, Regan thinks.
We are just coming up to Neptune now and awaiting communication from Earth. It has been three years and we are hoping to hear so good news. Let us hope that earths projections were wrong and the Earth is thriving.
We are just doing a quick two week maintenance and scout crew. We will be taking some samples of minerals from asteroids so we need you three to get into gear and go scout us some great rocks. And Meryl, please no target practice today. The ship needs as much metal as we can get to keep this boat in good repair.
Awwe Captain, can't I shoot at ice rocks?
Well if the computer wants a sample then no, but if it thinks it is alright then take a few shots, you have been sleeping awhile. So lets get a move on, I want to see you in those fliers in an hour, go eat.
As the scout ships lift off, a signal from the computer tells the Captain that the signal from earth has been downloaded. Bring it on retina screen.
Chapter 4
Home?
This is Lord Dorda, since the days of the Arc's leaving earth, riots and wars have erupted through out the planet. We have turned back to our basic natures and groups of citizens have banded together to protect their communities.
We lost a large portion of California when a plasma bomb exploded in the city core. A faction know only by their bright blue colors worn have taken responsibility, claiming it was against the war ships being created at Carson City Shipping Docks. The target was a military complex built over the Pacific ocean, many lives were lost.
Armies have moved leaving some cities defenseless. Three ships have been successfully launched just this year, they will join you in a couple years behind, the rest have been sabotaged. It seems someone on the inside decided our fate was to be left here, to see first hand the damage we caused and the outcome that negligence creates.
The storms have gotten a lot worse. With the stopping of all weather control manipulation it seems mother nature has decided to wreak revenge on us. And I don't blame her. We are witnessing storms up to 3000 in diameter, with winds up to 220 miles an hour.
Our last hope is with you, make sure you save these images and teach the truth about our history. How we took our planet for granted and killed ourselves in the process.
And let us learn from our mistakes.
Over the speaker implants hear the captain. Did you guys get that?
Yes, Captain
I hope you kinda like it, and please remember this is only my doodle before the painting...
Picture created by Glen Clovis
Mining station has been deployed, opening bay 2 and 4 for departure. All personal please secure overhead compartments and hatches and lets be careful people, no showboating. We need hardened materials for operations and fuel, so save what you can.
Yes captain, Donavan yells in a grunt military voice.
Yes mon capitan, Meryl chuckles.
Fuck you, Dylan whispers.
Hahahahaha Funny guy.
Meryl if you do feel like blasting something today, make it his smart ass.
She couldn't catch up to me if she tried, Dylan grunts.
Wanna make a bet?
Ok you two lets be professional, Donavan orders. Let's move out.
How about it captain? Meryl asks in her sweetest sounding voice.
If we can achieve quota then you got yourself a deal, well that's if Dylan isn't all talk?
Let's get this done.
Dylan pushes the liftoff switch and takes off after the automated mining station and the other two follow.
Art again by Glen Clovis
Art by VargasNi
Computer play something loud with a beat.
You're going down boy, Meryl whispers as she sets out towards an outcropping of rocks.
She initiates laser cutting drill and proceeds to slice large chunks of the floating billion year old treasure.
With hard light suspension nets she then gathers the pieces to an automated chute that breaks them down to a finer material.
The days almost done boys and girls and it looks like we have had an amazing day. Donavan as always taking the lead with the most in store, Meryl coming up second and Dylan... Well let's hope you put more speed in this race then you did on the shift today brother or you will be losing.
The only one going down is Meryl, Dylan mentions.
Meryl laughs, only in your dreams.
True that, Dylan remarks. True that.
Chapter 2
Ego Driven
Since Meryl was the one who made the challenge I am giving Dylan choice of routes.
The computer has given you three choices Dylan, which will you choose?
Let's go with the hard one...
Meryl are you ready to go?
Yes Captain.
Dylan?
I was born ready.
As the ships take off Meryl takes the lead. Flying gracefully through the asteroids she pushes into a larger opening in one of the larger objects.
Try to get through this, she says over the music.
Dylan chuckles, come on sweatpea let's make this a little harder.
He hits his boosters and comes up right beside her.
They both are coming neck to neck when Meryl's ships control systems starts flashing.
Capt..
System...
Unable to communicate...
Breaks over the captains ears.
Meryl, respond...
Meryl!
The lights start flashing as the controls begin shutting down.
Meryl tries rebooting the system when the screens go black.
What the hell is going on computer?
Computer answer me?
Captain I can't seem to get the computer up.
System failure on all fronts.
Unable to communicate to ship.
Losing power.
Screens are blank.
A face appears within the screens.
Who are you?
Where am I?
Help me!
Through the ships window Meryl sees she is coming close to one of the asteroids.
Who is this?
I don't remember, says the voice.
Why are you shutting down my ship?
Am I?
Lights and screens come on as a warning signal reports close proximity.
Over head Meryl hears the captain talking about aborting the shuttle.
Break free Meryl, quick.
I can't captain, system is still booting.
On the other speaker Donavan's voice comes in.
Suspension nets deployed, hold on Meryl this will be hard stop.
The field reaches around the ship as it holds it in place.
Meryl hits her head on the screen knocking her out.
As her eyes close she hears one more time.
Find me.
Chapter 3
Ghost in the machine
What the hell was that computer?
It seems sir we have a ghost in the machine.
A what?
There is another signal coming from the ship that isn't part of my programming.
The captain looks overhead at the medical unit where Meryl is being treated.
We almost lost one of our best today and you tell me we have phantoms on the ship?
I am unable to determine what this anomoly is captain, however I did recieve a sharp spike in power just before Meryl's ship lost control.
Find where the spike came from and let me know, we can't have this happening out here like this.
I will captain.
Donavan walks over to the table where Meryl is sitting. She has a large wound on the side of her face.
Here drink this, Donavan says as he drops a warm cup of coffee in front of her.
Thanks Meryl says.
What happened out there?
I really don't know, I was just about to overtake Dylan when the ship lost all control.
Then a face appeared on the screen asking for help.
What kind of face, Donavan asks.
Dylan walks in the room bellowing...
There wasn't any malfunction, you knew you were beat and made the whole thing up.
Shut up, Donavan mumbles as he sits beside Meryl handing here an ice pack.
No really a face appeared over the screen asking for help.
Yea right Dylan says as he pours himself a drink.
You sure you weren't hitting the sauce a little early?
You're the only one who can't stay solber here Dylan, Meryl says as she stands up against him.
Dizziness overtakes her and she has to sit right back down again.
Don't strain yourself on my expense toots, just speaking it real.
Over the head screens the captains image appears. Everyone get up here we seem to have found the problem.
The computer has found an unidentified ship on board that seems to have started when Meryl's ship lost control. It seems to be a old corporate flyer, one of the exec class models.
Is there any life reading on board? Donavan asks.
We can't seem to read anything inside of it, it must have some sort of shield on it. All we keep getting is a light signal that comes and goes.
Grab your gear we are going down to investigate this.
Art by Anasrist
Ok crew I still can't find any readings on this ship so enter with extreme caution.
Dylan, Meryl and the Captain walk slowly to the hatch as Donavan watches above at the main controls.
The captain walks over and tries the hatch and places his hand on the sensor.
A beep comes from it with an no access sign image on the pad.
It looks like we will be going in the hard way Dylan, get the laser cutter and open this can of worms.
Dylan starts walking over when Meryl says stop to Dylan and puts her hand on the pad.
A light green light glows under her palm as airlock is released and the door opens slowly.
It told me to find it.
Everyone lifting the weapons at the same time, all aimed at the door.
The latch opens as darkness peers through.
A slight hiss sounds and the door opens.
Chapter 4
An uninvited guest
As they enter the ship a small light turns on, and an image of the solar system fills the room.
What's going on captain we just got another spike coming from the ship?
It's a holoprojection Donavan, we must have tripped it when we entered.
Captain... A voice comes out of the dark.
My name is Edger Monsanto.
I am leaving you with my most valuable possession that I have secured in this old ship.
Please take good care of her, she will need all the help she can get.
The projection stops and a small red light starts guiding down the floor.
Please follow captain, the voice says.
Computer can you hear me?
Yes captain, it seems that this is an old recording, since Edger passed away before the we lifted off.
Follow the lines captain, the voice speaks again.
As the crew follow deeper in the ship a door opens into one of the rooms.
In the center of the room is a cryosleep chamber with another ID plate.
Meryl walks over and puts her hand on the plate, nothing happens.
The captain walks over and places his hand where Meryls was last at.
The chamber opens.
Dearest Captain, this is my daughter Cynthia. I have given everything to save her and her memory. Within her hold great strength but fragile emotions. Please keep her safe. For she has the ability to change the fate of our species.
The captain looks down upon the sleeping woman, his breath gets taken away as her eyes open.
You're so beautiful!
It seems sir we have a ghost in the machine.
A what?
There is another signal coming from the ship that isn't part of my programming.
The captain looks overhead at the medical unit where Meryl is being treated.
We almost lost one of our best today and you tell me we have phantoms on the ship?
I am unable to determine what this anomoly is captain, however I did recieve a sharp spike in power just before Meryl's ship lost control.
Find where the spike came from and let me know, we can't have this happening out here like this.
I will captain.
Donavan walks over to the table where Meryl is sitting. She has a large wound on the side of her face.
Here drink this, Donavan says as he drops a warm cup of coffee in front of her.
Thanks Meryl says.
What happened out there?
I really don't know, I was just about to overtake Dylan when the ship lost all control.
Then a face appeared on the screen asking for help.
What kind of face, Donavan asks.
Dylan walks in the room bellowing...
There wasn't any malfunction, you knew you were beat and made the whole thing up.
Shut up, Donavan mumbles as he sits beside Meryl handing here an ice pack.
No really a face appeared over the screen asking for help.
Yea right Dylan says as he pours himself a drink.
You sure you weren't hitting the sauce a little early?
You're the only one who can't stay solber here Dylan, Meryl says as she stands up against him.
Dizziness overtakes her and she has to sit right back down again.
Don't strain yourself on my expense toots, just speaking it real.
Over the head screens the captains image appears. Everyone get up here we seem to have found the problem.
The computer has found an unidentified ship on board that seems to have started when Meryl's ship lost control. It seems to be a old corporate flyer, one of the exec class models.
Is there any life reading on board? Donavan asks.
We can't seem to read anything inside of it, it must have some sort of shield on it. All we keep getting is a light signal that comes and goes.
Grab your gear we are going down to investigate this.
Ok crew I still can't find any readings on this ship so enter with extreme caution.
Dylan, Meryl and the Captain walk slowly to the hatch as Donavan watches above at the main controls.
The captain walks over and tries the hatch and places his hand on the sensor.
A beep comes from it with an no access sign image on the pad.
It looks like we will be going in the hard way Dylan, get the laser cutter and open this can of worms.
Dylan starts walking over when Meryl says stop to Dylan and puts her hand on the pad.
A light green light glows under her palm as airlock is released and the door opens slowly.
It told me to find it.
Everyone lifting the weapons at the same time, all aimed at the door.
The latch opens as darkness peers through.
A slight hiss sounds and the door opens.
Chapter 4
An uninvited guest
As they enter the ship a small light turns on, and an image of the solar system fills the room.
What's going on captain we just got another spike coming from the ship?
It's a holoprojection Donavan, we must have tripped it when we entered.
Captain... A voice comes out of the dark.
My name is Edger Monsanto.
I am leaving you with my most valuable possession that I have secured in this old ship.
Please take good care of her, she will need all the help she can get.
The projection stops and a small red light starts guiding down the floor.
Please follow captain, the voice says.
Computer can you hear me?
Yes captain, it seems that this is an old recording, since Edger passed away before the we lifted off.
Follow the lines captain, the voice speaks again.
As the crew follow deeper in the ship a door opens into one of the rooms.
In the center of the room is a cryosleep chamber with another ID plate.
Meryl walks over and puts her hand on the plate, nothing happens.
The captain walks over and places his hand where Meryls was last at.
The chamber opens.
Dearest Captain, this is my daughter Cynthia. I have given everything to save her and her memory. Within her hold great strength but fragile emotions. Please keep her safe. For she has the ability to change the fate of our species.
The captain looks down upon the sleeping woman, his breath gets taken away as her eyes open.
You're so beautiful!
1 comment:
I said just the other day, that I was so tired of the Zombi Apocalypse mentality. I wanted to read a book, a story about a time traveler that goes to a future where we have not destroyed ourselves, or had some great apocalypse, but instead some shift. Something like the Mayans who gave up on the illusion of civilization and simply went back into the wild where they belonged, leaving their cities and technologies for the jungle to reclaim. Here I find this story, with some of that hope that i was seeking, some of that lightness of being.
Thank you Reagan...
And Thank you for asking how I am. Twitter has locked me out yet again, so I am unable to respond there.
I was happy to read that you are closer to that radiant smile .. and I continue to hold hope that it will be.
XXX
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