Common Purpose

[Hydro]

Cult, MY 2165

Cha walked into the conference room that Ivan Ivanovich used as his office. Ivan got up from his chair as Cha walked in and bowed deeply as Cha made his way into the room.

"Health and peace to you Prophet, voice of the Planet." Ivan offered the praise with just the right amount of sincerity.

"Peace be onto you and may you live in harmony with the Planet my son." Cha replied. " What did you wish to talk with me about?"

"My prophet. I have had my base administrators working on some numbers and it is becoming clear that the resources being sent to the capital have reached record levels. Exactly how much longer will this last? As it stands now with our research labs taking nearly 70% of our energy reserves and resources and, of course the two projects, leave little left for anything else?" Ivan said as he pushed the report towards Cha.

"I am aware of the report Ranger One." Cha pushed it back to Ivan. "I sympathize with your situation. However, I might have a solution. Currently we are 18 turns away from completing the virtual world at Dawn of the Planet. The Empath Guild is only a few turns behind that. What I have been mulling over is switching production and resources between the two bases. If Dawn were to build the Guild project we could have it done in 6 turns! The virtual world would be pushed back to 32 turns at Mind of the Planet but the end result would that we would free up one base for production purposes and ease the drain on resources. If we were to apply our growing energy reserves along with our stored planet pearls we could complete the Empath Guild in perhaps three turns!." Cha ended his reply by folding his arms into his robes while getting up from his chair.

"I think the choice is obvious then, is it not my Prophet. Complete the Guild now and use the added production capacity of Dawn of the Planet to complete the virtual world project?" Ivan finished his statement as more of a question than a response.

"Nothing is obvious Ivan. Both of the these projects are very important, critical in fact. In order to complete one project we might have to sacrifice the other. Perhaps another group did survive the Unity disaster and they are also working towards the same goals as we. We can take some comfort that we have two bases that have amassed a great amount of wealth and resources. Should we loose one project while completing another there are still other projects. We could complete the genome project in much less time than the virtual world at Mind of the Planet. Perhaps 12 to 15 turns rather than the 32 for the virtual world." Cha turned his back and began to
leave the room. Just before exiting the room he stopped and turned around.

"Ivan, whatever is decided know that it is done by my will alone! The planet guides me in all aspects, we live to serve the Planet, nothing else. We are its protectors and guardians! That is our goal. We could do many things different. We could strip the land of its resources, over populate and expand and put pressure on the resources and environment of the Planet but we do not. We follow the will of the Planet. Through this we survived. The children of the planet protect us. The Planet provides for us. We need nothing else. If others survived I can only imagine what devastation they have brought about. Some might have allowed their population to breed like rabbits, others might be tearing the Planet apart to gather minerals and nutrients to build their societies and war machines. Know this that Planet will not stand for this forever. We will act first and she will complete our work."

"All praise and honor to you, my Prophet." Ivan bowed and this time he sounded actually sincere in the appropriate response when the Prophet left a room.

"Yes." Cha whispered and left the room.

*!*!*!*

Autumn Grove, MY 2166

“They’re finally off. I wish them well.”

Marilyn looked over at her best friend Jerrold. “They’ll be in position in four years, and that is with roads. That’s a long time.”

“Not as long as it would take without roads. Have you heard how the colony pods at Greenhouse Gate and Last Rose of Summer are coming along?”

“The pod at Gate will be done next year, and they are scheduled to set up northwest of Song of Planet at the edge of the Flats. That should take some ground back from the University, and make sure they don’t steal any more.”

“Right. Crazy Zak won’t get any more of our land. What about Rose?”

“They’re colony will be going on the new land that is being built east of Rose, which a trio of formers are building,” Marilyn stated. “I think there is one more colony planned on reclaimed land north of Landing, but that will be longer in the future. When established, that will mean we will have 15 bases. The last I heard the Council thinks that is enough, and we can start on our infrastructure.”

“Right. That will be a whole lot more than Crazy Zak has, I’d bet. He’d better not start trouble again.”

Marilyn looked over at Jer in surprise. “Warlike talk? I thought you were a pacifist.”

“I am, as long as people leave us alone. Have her experienced the holos on the Hive society? It makes me shudder. A planned police state, for heaven’s sake! And the Cyborgs are a little creapy. I’d feel better about Zak, but he seem to be unstable. We’re in the only normal society on Planet.”

“Hmmm. You might be right. Maybe they’ll come around.”

“I’ll believe it when I see it.”

*~*~**!*

Cult, MY 22166

Shari Moon sat cross-legged across from the Prophet. She had not seen him in years, decades in fact, not since her merging, her joining with Gamma. Now she was acting head of the Guild of the Guides and she was having tea with the Prophet.

"Shari, I have read all of your reports with interest. I am still amazed as to how you are able to support the bond between two worms? Cha asked while sipping his tea.

"It is not hard at all. Currently I have a guide in training, a journeyman by rank, with Delta in the wilderness. I, of course am here with Delta. I sense what each worm mass feels and "thinks" and if I need to have the other guide do something to help Delta I have only to key in his comm-link and make sure it gets done." Shari responded.

"Wonderful. Simply wonderful. You have been a great help Shari more than you can possibly imagine. The energy nodules, the planet pearls, you harvest from the remains of the rogue worms have built up our energy reserves greatly. Your worms have also protected us from rogue attacks for decades." Cha eased himself closer to Shari.

Shari was a little taken aback by the sudden intrusion into her space. She had heard rumors of the Prophets sessions with other women and men but never thought she would ever be included. She eased herself back on the cushions hoping to create more space but the Prophet seemed to take this move as a declaration for something else. He sat down his cup and moved even closer so that they were touching now.

"Shari, do you wish to help me?" The Prophet asked.

"You have but only to say and if I can, if it is in my power I will try." Shari responded.

Cha moved his hands so that they pushed back his robes and then moved to push hers back as well.

"Yes, I do believe you can help me Shari Moon and it is within your power to do so." Cha responded in a slightly deeper voice than the normal child like tone he carried.

"By your will my Prophet."

*!*!*!*

Virgin Soil, MY 2167

‘Sir? Wake up sir,” the voice said.

Don struggled to wake up. It was dark, and for a moment he wasn’t sure where he was. After a moment he focused and knew he was in his apartment, and that it was very late at night. His small window showed that it was still dark outside with only a low ebb of waste light from his city.

He hit his communication stud. “Yes,” he croaked. His voice was a bit horse. He wanted a drink of water, or something better.

“Sir, this is Wipf. We have a crisis.”

Donald was instantly awake. “What is it?”

“There has been an environmental shift. It was somewhat catastrophic, sir. There is a new river between the area south of Virgin Soil that links up with the river valley at Landing.”

“Was anyone hurt?” Don said as he threw on some clothes. He wasn’t being too particular, and he didn’t even bother to turn on the lights.

“We don’t know yet. The former crew in the area hasn’t checked in yet, and the area isn’t heavily populated,” the ops technician said.

“I’ll be at the center in 10 minutes,” Don said as he left. He did, as a matter of routine, remember to cycle the airlock as a matter of course, but he left the communication link open.

In the empty room a young voice asked,” Sir? Are you still there? Sir?”

Minutes later Don arrived. No one noticed his attire. “Give me an update.”

“Glad you’re here, Sir,” Johnnson Wipf said. “We know little more than what I told you. I took the liberty of sending a recon team to the area, but it will be a while before they are able to report.”

“Show me on a map,” Don told him.

Johnnson called up a topographic holo. “Here,” he said, pointing at the new forest that covered the area, “through here.” His finger ran from the area south of Soil to the northwest, going through the lowlands toward the sea and Gaia’s Landing.

“Any ideas?” Don asked.

“It may be our terraforming, Sir,” he said. “It started where the forests have grown since the landing, and the forest cover almost the entire area now, including the new river valley. It may be they disturbed the weather patterns, which built up to a critical point.”

“A new river,” Don commented. “That could be an advantage. Extra energy and travel speed. I just hope no one was hurt.”

“Yes, Sir.”

*!*!*!*

[ b]Cult, MY 2167[/b]

The terra-former master crew chief looked slowly turned in a circle taking in the view around him. His crew had been assigned to clear the a sector of fungus from the highest point of land in Cult territory. Just below him was the source of the river that flowed nearly 7 sectors to the west. This was the second to last sector of fungus that they would clear, the other to the south was being cleared by a another two teams to expose a rich sector of nutrients. These were the last two to be cleared. In time once they learned how to re-plant fungus they would reclaim much that had been lost but for now they would have to keep to the plan. This sector was to have a road, farm and solar collection station built. The land was rich and fertile and the river would provide excellent irrigation and the soil was had adequate mineral content as well. To the north Heart of the Planet could just barely be seen and to the south was Light of the Planet. To the west was the sensor array they had just completed that would soon be connected to a new colony, Soul of the Planet, but the colony pod was still being built but would be done in 3 turns and then they would have six bases. His buddies back at command said that within the next four turns they would complete the designs for the new high speed land rovers and then they could begin on ship designs.

"Chief, are we ready to clear this sector?" Asked one of his assistants.

"Yes, gather the crews so that we can say the prayer of forgiveness for what we are about to do to Planet." Replied the Master Chief.

The Chief looked down at the rich carpet of fungus and a tear began to form in his eye. In time, he hoped that he would never have to do what he had to do....

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2168

“Honored Council, the Empath Guild is done, thanks to the application of 140 terrajoules authorized by your august body,” Senior Administrator Morrison stated.

The Gaian Council members nodded, and there were smiling.

“These new resources will give those among us who are sensitive to the still poorly understood mental powers, which seems to be linked to Planet itself. It is clear that before coming to this place there was no evidence whatsoever for any ‘psychic’ phenomenon. Yet, we have seen since our arrival at Planet that there is something else going on here, and this new Guild will allow our sensitives to expand their powers by at least an order of magnitude.”

“Raynold,” Dee asked, “what exactly are our sensitives going to be able to do?”

“That remains to be seen,” the administrator started, “but we do have enough information to speculate. First, we should be able to sense the grouping of humans no matter where they are on Planet and, once located, probably be able to initiate some form of contact.”

“So we’ll probably be able to contact any other factions that exist on Planet,” Dee said.

“Essentially, yes. And, once located, we’ll probably be able to focus even more to detect basic information, intelligence if you will, about the goings-on in cities and for a society as a whole. We should be able to determine what they are building, and where they are building it. Moreover, we should be able to determine the generalities of what they were researching, although not the details.”

“So, we can tell what they are researching, but not how it works,” Terry said, reiterating what he thought he heard.

“Exactly,” the administrator said.

“We’ll be able to snoop on others,” Colin said. “Isn’t that unethical?”

“That’s not my decision. It is yours. You’ll be able to find out this information, if you want to. Or not. So you can determine what level of ‘snooping’ is appropriate. I can assure you that the empaths won’t care, since it will mean more time with their families and to pursue their own interests.”

“Very good, and well done,” Terry said. “When will it be operational?”

“That is the good news,” Morrison said. “You’ll be able to get your first bits of information by next year.”

“I’m sure it will be of great use to us. Please keep us informed,” Terry said.

“You can be assured that I will. Just let us know what sort of information you need, and if we can it will be provided.”

Terry nodded, dismissing the administrator, who left with a huge smile on his face. “Now, to the next item on our agenda…”

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2168

Cha woke from his sleep drenched in sweat. During his sleep when his mind was at its most responsive state he realized that the Empath Guild had been completed by someone else. A sudden shift in the in life strains of the planet had taken place. Once the others had melded their minds to the psychic energies of the planet no one else could "overlay" their minds on those energy waves. No, the Empath Guild was gone. Cha stripped the soaked sheets from his body and hit the comm-link next to his bed. "Call an emergency session of the command and support council at once!" Cha barked into the link and then hit the off button. Cha was not angry. No, but what he was worried as to who might have taken control of this project. It had to be Zakharov only he had the scientific skills to see that this was a valuable project. Cha strode up and walked into his bathroom and began to shower. The hot water soaked his body and released much of the tension built up during the night. Soon there would be endless hours of work with little sleep. What he must do is make sure that the Virtual world project and the humane genome became his!

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2169

Deirdre was exhausted. The empaths had come through and provided the elusive communication links to the other faction leaders Corazon Santiago, Pravin Lal, and Cha Dawn. The previous five hours had been spent in unadulterated frustration. Corazon had been somewhat friendly, and had agreed to trade for Doctrine: Flexibility. At last the secrets that would allow sea going ability would be available to the Gaians. She had even suggested a friendship treaty, which Dee had heartily accepted.

After that negotiations had broken down. She wasn’t willing to trade other technologies, accusing the Gaians of ‘stamping out legitimate research on Planet.’ Her response was disturbingly like Zakharov, who was significantly ahead of the Gaians and everyone else. Pravin Lal was even worse since he wasn’t even polite. To Dee it made no sense at all, since he rejected out of hand any technology trade or even a friendship treaty, even as he touted the UN Charter! He was even more of a mystery than Santiago had been.

Now there was one more: Cha Dawn. Dee chose to contact him last since he was entirely new, unlike Santiago or Lal. The empaths said his society was closely aligned with Planet, more so than the Gaians. However, after her experiences she was not wildly optimistic.

Dee activated the communication channel, and hoped for the best.

[Hydro]

Cult, MY 2169

Gaian Proposal: Treaty of Friendship; trade technology Doctrine: Flexibility for Planned, with a promise not to build the Virtual World

To the Gaian people and Deirdre Skye: We accept your terms and most readily agree to the establishment of a peace treaty of understanding between our two peoples. It came as somewhat of a shock to us that there were actually other survivors from the Unity disaster. Since the landing we have never encountered another soul on this planet other than the native ones. We also except the exchange of technology and your promise NOT to use said technology to advance a project that will become apparent to you upon reviewing it, the virtual world. Should you betray us in this regard you do so at the risk of not only offending us but the Planet as well. We have striven since landing on Planet to live in harmony with the planet in all aspects of our lives. Since you have the Empath Guild you will most likely be able to "glean" some information from us, about us. In order to prevent any mis-understandings I will be clear and upfront with you. We, the people of the Planet, have dedicated ourselves to protect, nurture and preserve this Planet. Our society understands that Planet is special in many aspects and believe that it has a soul, a guiding spirit. We have become partners with the planet in all aspects of our life. Our army is composed of many mind worms and spore launchers. We have no mechanized forces to speak of, except for our city garrisons, as I suspect others already do. We have ordered our society in such a way as to minimize in every aspect any damage it might have on Planet, a "green" social and economic model. We restrict our populations, industry and expansion so as to not to over stress the planet. After reviewing the advance information sent by your council I see you believe in many of the same things we do. I remember you from the Unity and you always showed a deep understanding of the importance of the science of life. I still have several of your works and they were very valuable in helping us in the early days after the landing. Since you also pursued the Empath Guild project you also understand the value that the mind has. I myself have one of the highest ESP ratings every charted and I have also developed the ability to "link" with the planet and see the wonders it offers. I can not stop your Empath Guild but as allies working towards a greater goal I would take great offense to any "snooping" by them should I every find out. If you wish information all you have to do is ask and if possible I will provide it. I am the fountain from which all information flows from my people. I am the Prophet of the Planet. I have been given visions by the Planet that have brought us to a greater understanding of the will of the Planet. In time, I hope to bring that understanding to you.

You mentioned briefly in your introductory communication the possibility of exchanging other communication frequencies. This is not important to us. Should you wish to "gift" them to us they would be looked upon as the first building blocks of a beautiful bridge of friendship. From the data your transmitted many of the other groups have turned their backs on the planet in favor of seeking power, wealth and domination. All of these bring harm to the planet. We, the people of the Planet see no use in discussing any topic so long as they pursue these goals of destruction. We hope to bring the will and spirit of the Planet to them and make them see the error of their ways. Lastly, I have been informed that your society has not shifted towards a "green" economic and social model even thought you have the means to do so or you would not have been able to complete the Empath Guild. This is troubling to us since you seem to champion the idea of being allies with the planet yet you do not practice it. I hope that you will soon take advantage of the benefits that being a friend of the planet can bring. I would hate to see Planet turn its back on someone who already sees the value in living in harmony with your surroundings. May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn First Disciple of the Planet. He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Cha keyed in the message and turned to look at the other members of the council. All of them had been very quiet since the first news had reached their ears, other survivors! "Ranger One, what are your thoughts?" Cha asked.

"My Prophet. It seems that many of the other groups are violent and hold little respect at all for the Planet." Replied Ivan. "I agree my Prophet. It seems that most of the other groups hate and abhor the native life of the planet, her children. Some actively go about to destroy them in fact." Shari Moon hastily added. " With the exception of the Gaians it seems that all of them fear and loath the worms. I suspect that if they knew that our human children play with the worms and are welcomed as brothers and sisters it might actually cause them to fear us."

"I agree with Shari, my Prophet." The Master Seeker quickly interjected. " I should think it would be prudent to limit our contact and not to provide any information as to our location on Planet, even to our new allies the Gaians. It seems that they are grouped very tightly, the Gaians, University and these Cyborgs. That would mean there are still other factions out there that we know little of that could be living just a few sectors away. Once we are able to integrate the ship technology and build a transport and scout and learn a little more about our surroundings, but until then, we should remain quiet on this topic. The Gaians Empath Guild might know the general area we are in but I doubt much more than that, if that at all. If we provide them with map files than we open ourselves up to the risk of having that information spread to others that could result in very negative consequences for us."

The black robed seeker finished by easing himself back into his chair. "I agree with your view." Cha turned to the Seeker and nodded his approval. " For now let us be the like the small fungus worm hiding in the field. We will move with caution and not draw attention to ourselves. Only if Planet demands that we aid her in her struggle against the destruction the others bring down upon her will we make our presence known. If the Gaians wish to take the lead we will let them for now. They will be the lighting rod. We are one with the Planet so in the end we will be the victors."

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2170

Deirdre sent a brief not of acceptance to her new potential friend Cha Dawn:

“Dear Cha Dawn, I readily accept your friendship and technology trade. I have the commitment from the Gaian Council that we will not pursue the Virtual World project in exchange for the Planetary Network technology. I sincerely hope that the sea technology of Doctrine: Flexibility will allow you to expand you holdings, if you seem that appropriate, or at least explore the territory near your territory.

Our society is in its formative stages, and at this point the Council as determined that it is not necessary to pursue a Green economy. The Gaian people are naturally efficient, and we have a basic rapport with Planet, so the benefits of a Green economic orientation do not seem prudent at this time.

I also have a bit of information to you. The leader of the Peacekeepers are near completing the project Virtual World. You might want to consider measures to gain this project for your peoples, although I’m sure that the Peacekeeper people will find this to be of benefit to their people if you decline to pursue this project in an aggressive manner.

Lastly, you did not express much interest in the communication frequencies of the other faction leaders. It is the Gaian Council policy to give these if they are requested by other faction leaders since communication is the they to understanding. If you wish any frequency you only have to ask.

Go with Planet,
Deirdre Skye, representative of the Gaian Council”

Dee finished the holo and sent it to what the Cult of Planet. That was an odd name, and it would remain to be seen if they would be as fanatical as old Earth’s more fundamentalist religions or if they simply took their reverence of Planet to a new level and integrated it more fully into their society’s belief systems.

In other matters, Dee was happy to be informed that two new Gaian bases have been established in the last few years. Velvetgrass Point had been founded on a sensor on the land bridge between University and Gaian lands. When it was formed the effective border shifted west, giving the Gaians more territory, including a sensor and forests planted by the University. Dee had some misgivings about ‘stealing’ this land, but she knew it was important to have a bulwark to protect Gaian lands, and provide a bridge between the northern and southern seas, which would otherwise impassible.

The second new base Silverbird Park was founded at the northwestern edge of the Uranium Flats, and here too the University-Gaian border shifted west in favor of the Gaians. Now they controlled the entire Uranium Flats, to the loss of Gagarin Memorial.

Although the founding of two new bases was exciting it did mean that Dee would have to make an official dedication soon. Dee almost dreaded this since she felt tired almost all time. Maybe that is normal for a person in their 100s, even if they are well preserved. She hated the thought, but she knew one day she’d have to agree to pressure to ‘hit the tanks’ for rejuvenation. It seemed unnatural, but Dee knew that the pressure from her advocates and her own weak physiology might decide the issue for her.

Dee signed, mentally agreeing to the inevitable. Then she slipped into a silky nighty and went to bed.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2170

Deirdre Skye,

I commend you and your peoples commitment in the protection and preservation of Planet. However, by transforming your society as quickly as possible to a "green" society you make the ultimate commitment to the eternal life of Planet. I will not lecture you on a subject that I am sure some if not many of your advisors might already advocate. Suffice it to say that it is one thing to talk about protecting the Planet it is another to actually make the commitment. Planet is alive, it is as alive as the person who sits next to you. To treat it just as another "resource" is not worthy of the person who wrote so masterfully about the importance of protecting nature, and I quote, "Nature does not operate like a machine or a computer. It feels pain and joy. Only when nature is left to operate under is own rules and not of man can we truly understand its beauty." You wrote that yourself. Your breakthroughs in understanding nature allowed you to develop the weather paradigm, to better control nature. But, what if, consider this, if what you were controlling did not want controlling? Would you take a friend and force him to grow, or gain weight or loose it? No, you would not. What I wish to point out that just because you can do a thing to Planet does not mean you should do it. Please consider this when you begin your next
terra-forming project.

The Planet Cult is 14 turns away from completion of the virtual world. I wish we could finish it faster but to do so would require much more energy than we have at the moment. It would be a terrible blow to my people to loose such a worthy project but it is now in the hands of the Planet. We can not force any more energy or minerals from Planet just for our sakes alone. That would make us into what we hate the most. I can only hope that we can complete it before them.

The sea technology will be of great value to us. We immediately began construction on two ships, a transport and a scout foil to better explore the seas. There are two large land masses to our south and to the west that, if not occupied, would offer us decades of expansion.

We appreciate your gesture of the comm-links. If you wish to transmit to us any of the frequencies you wish to offer please do so. Our philosophy is still basically the same, that of none participation with other factions. However, should our new ships find boundary markers to other factions it might be wise to have them so that we me avoid any conflicts at that time.

In time I hope you will see that our passion for the protection of planet comes from our desire to see life in its most beautiful form remain just that.

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn

First Disciple of the Planet. He who walks in the soul of the Planet.
________________________________

The Master Caretaker and Ranger One had been locked away for days, perhaps weeks with their staffs trying to come up with a solution to complete the Virtual world in under 10 turns. Sadly they could not find an answer. Suddenly a claxon began to wail and a nervous communication technician ran into Ivan's conference room.

"Ranger One, I have an urgent communication from Dreams of the Planet. It seems a new life form appeared from the seas and attacked the city. It was unlike any of the life forms we know of. It most closely resembled a giant sea snake from ancient earth mythology!" The technician turned over the report to Ivan.

"It seems the garrison was able to defeat the worm, thanks to the trance protection, no word yet if they recovered any planet pearls." Ivan folded the report and ordered the tech out. " The Prophet must be told at once!"

*!*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2171

Cha Dawn,

I must apologize for some inaccurate information I have given you about the Virtual World. What I should have said is the that Peacekeepers are within a few years of completing the Human Genome Project. The only faction working on the Virtual World besides yours is the University. So, my warning should have been that you may want to hurry your efforts on the HGP if you want to acquire it for your people.

I respect your arguments on the benefits of a Green economy, but at this point the human impact on Planet is rather small. There are a about 100,000 humans on Planet, which is about as many as were in a medium sized suburb of one of Earth’s old megalopolises. As humans we can certainly do damage, and it is clear that there are some activities that can cause enormous harm. It is a matter of scale and I feel that, as long as we are careful about our activities, we can limit our ‘footprint’ on Planet. The bottom line, Cha Dawn, is that as humans we are consumers. We need to be thoughtful about how and what we consume, and keep in sharp focus the possibility of harming Planet.

Our new sea foil had an amazing discovery this last year. While exploring the fungus they encountered a sea-based mindworm the crew dubbed an Isle of the Deep. Luckily for them it turned out to be friendly, and this new mindworm will be most helpful in exploring the oceans. I recommend that you focus your efforts on a sea foil so that you can also encounter these new creatures. I’m sure you will be as amazed as we are.

I have included the communication frequency of all the factions. I hope these other factions will be more flexible to you than they have been toward us.

Dee

[Hydro]

Cult, MY 2171

Deirdre Skye,

We thank you for your most generous gift in the various communication frequencies. As I have stated earlier we will most likely not contact any of them for some time but in case something happens it will be good to have them. I have also been told that the Peacekeepers have changed their priority from building the human genome project to the virtual world. I can only assume that we are evenly matched in this regard since I have been told that if we had changed we could have completed it in one turn as well. So, we seem to be evenly matched in this regard. I can only hope that within the reaming turns ahead we can squeeze out some advantage to put us ahead.

We are working to build several ships and our scout ship will have special empath guides to help defeat any rogue "isle of the deep" that we can not bond with. I we will also build a colony pod as quickly as we are able to set-up operations on one of the larger land masses.

Lastly, I wish to broach a subject of some importance. Are you currently engaged in any hostile actions against any of the other factions? If so, I would assume that you would look up any trades or exchanges of data or information as a sign of betrayal as we would if you did something similar. Please advise us on this regard.

I will have many important duties over the next few turns or so unless you have something of urgency I doubt I will contact you in the near future.

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn First Disciple of the Planet.
He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

__ ___ __ _ ____ ____ ____ ____ ___ _ _____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____

Cha closed the book and on the report from Ranger One and the Master Caretaker. He would have to support their recommendations to reduce the amount of surplus energy to the labs so that more of it could be stored to quickly complete the Virtual world project. It was somewhat disheartening to know that the reduction would have such a tremendous impact on their research but, it could not be helped.

Cha looked down at the small girl that played under the desk with her dolls. He had meant for her to be an important part of the Empath Guild but now events had determined another course of action. Eve looked up and smiled and Cha could feel her thoughts and he smiled. It took a great deal of concentration to keep his mind shielded from her. There were things that a child should never know of....

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2172

Cha Dawn,

The Gaians are not at war with anyone at the moment, although Zakharov saw fit to declare war on us when we first met. He decided to offer a truce, and then a friendship treaty, so I have some optimism as to where our relationship is headed. We have been in a treaty of friendship with the Cyborgs since we met, even if our relations have otherwise been somewhat frosty. Santiago has been relatively friendly, and Yang and Lal have told me in no uncertain terms they aren’t interested in any relationship except a truce.

I also know that the Cyborgs are at war with the University and the Hive. I have no idea who started what, but all sides have been insisting that the Gaians joint their war on their side. I have refused, even if this has strained our relationship with the University and Cyborgs. Their wars seem petty, and there is no compelling reason for use to become involved in their wars of aggression or misunderstanding.

Your idea of an empath foil is a good one, and I may just use that idea in the near future. I appreciate your insight.

Dee

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2172

Cha had been with the command council for days, around the clock in fact, completing all of the negotiations. Only each of their most trusted aides had been allowed to enter the room during any of the negotiations that were being conducted. Cha reached across the table and turned off the comm-link to Pravin Lal and smiled.

"I am amazed at how foolish and naive' all of these leaders seem to be." Cha remarked as he eased himself back into his chair. "Each one nearly fell over himself or herself trying to get us to become their partners to attack the others. Master Seeker your advice was invaluable to say the least. We gained more technology during this one turn then we could have done in a lifetime. Not to mention the many map files and extra energy credits we gained. We now have a clear picture as to the relative positions of all of the major factions with the exception of the Hive. Our energy reserves are over 135 units. Yet, the most important thing we gained is neutrality! Not one alliance did we enter into as if we would ever deal with the likes of them. To think we would become allies with Zakharov who described Planet is a barren rock! If it had not been for the Master Seeker I almost turned off the link in anger. Suffice it to say we gained more than we could have dreamed of!" Cha ended by holding his arms out to bless them all.

"We must not forget the Gaians." The Master Seeker quietly said as he turned his chair towards Cha. " With their Empath Guild they will quickly now that we have made major gains in technology and energy. They have yet to respond to the Prophets request of not "spying" on us, which I would expect they would do even if they promised not to do so. I would find it very hard to believe that they did not have one person over their that, like me, would want to keep the "big picture" in mind, shall we say. I expect the Gaians will soon come calling asking for something. I would advise offering something in response or perhaps securing energy credits. From the initial reports from both Ranger One and the Master Caretaker the deluge in technology will keep us backed up for decades of turns so more technology now, no matter how valuable would leave us with little help in the now or in the near future. lastly, what ever we do we can not "exchange" map files with anyone. Our position is very unique to say the least. The Gaians might be able to "sneak" about in our minds and discover a tidbit or morsel that they can use to piece together a picture about our general goals and economy but without knowing "where we are at" they are blind to the specifics of our society, for the most part. Lastly, if our enemies do not know where we are at they can do little to strike at us. While we on the other hand know exactly where to place force of arms, if need by."

"My Prophet, I can only assume what the Master Seeker is saying is correct at this time. However, do you not see how much we have gained by making a few shrewd trades?" The Master Caretaker had held his tongue for some time but now he could not anymore. " In time we will have to find allies. All of the other factions, with the exception of the Gaians and the Peacekeepers seem bent on military conquest of some form. Should we not make allies now
and firm up our long term goals?"

The Prophet stood up and began to walk to the door, then paused. Everyone held their breath for what seemed like hours, nervous eyes darted to the Prophet and to each other, in particular Lance Thompson.

"No, it is not time. For now we will lay "low". We will not contact anyone else unless we are contacted. We are the void. The empty space, the enigma. We will prepare for the day that we will join with the Planet in her struggle against those who will tear at her heart and destroy her. When Planet has given me the vision to declare the holy Jihad against all who fail to follow the path of the Planet then we will have our most powerful ally."

Cha began moving again and opened the doors and returned to his private quarters. Everyone else sat quietly for a while then collected his papers and began to leave. No one could argue against him now, not ever and especially when the Jihad was called. No, the Prophet in his wisdom by the guidance of the Planet would find a way to prevail and win or so they hoped...

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2173

Terry checked off another item on his list. “The next item on the agenda is Dee’s latest chat with Santiago. If this report reads correctly,” he said as he glanced up at Dee, “she was positively enthusiastic, and readily agreed to exchange Nonlinear Mathematics for Ethical Calculus, which we had just started working on. She did not agree to an alliance, or any other sort of trade, which is unfortunate. So, it seems that all the faction leaders are still technically friendly but in effect hostile like Zak and Aki, neutral and hostile like Lal and Yang, or just aloof like Cha Dawn. In short, we don’t have any real friends. I find that to be disturbing.”

“Maybe if we didn’t flaunt our power the other factions would be more favorably inclined toward us,” Colin mentioned.

“And how, pray tell, could we do that?” Terry said. He was annoyed at Colin, as usual. “We haven’t threatened anyone, nor have we demanded anything. I agreed to Dee’s policy of open communication, and granting communication channels to all who asked for them for free, not that it has gotten us a thing except contempt.’

“Terry,” Colin said as he steepled his hands and looked at him as if lecturing a small child, “the Guild has demonstrated that we have almost twice the population and base as any other faction. We are the only faction to complete one, much less two, Projects. Until recently we were the technical leader on Planet, and we still have the highest research rate of any faction. And we can snoop into any other faction’s business at will. Don’t you think that might make people envious?”

“The fact that the other factions haven’t had as good leadership isn’t my problem, Colin. And being a little more successful than some of our neighbors hardly shows we are flaunting our power! If anything we’ve been restrained! So leave your simpering defeatist ideology at the door and try to use a little logic for a change. We can only do so much for the other factions.”

“Gentleman,” Dee said. Once again she had to interject to stop a barbed exchange between these two old friends. “You are both right. We can control our growth if we switch to a Green economy, and still get significant benefits. I propose…”

“That was discussed and tabled in the last meeting, Dee,” Ling said. “We voted to switch to a Democratic government first, then to a Green economy if it proved feasible. However, we still don’t have the resources yet for the complete change.”

“Then do a partial change! Switch to Green right now!” Colin said, almost yelling.

“This is not on the agenda,” Terry said, poring over his list to make sure, “and will be stricken from the record. Ling is correct. Those resources have already been allocated, and that discussion is closed until next year.”

Colin glowered, his eyes darting to the hawk Ling and the curmudgeon Terry. Dee was impassive.

“The next item is Cha Dawn. It seems he has come into a huge amount of technology, undoubtedly from trading due to the communication links we gave him. I suggest we as for a bit of remuneration,” Terry said.

“He asked us not to spy on him and his people, Terry,” Dee said.

“Really? Good! More power too him! Maybe Cha can talk some sense into the other faction leaders out there!” Colin said.

“My proposition stands,” Terry said.

“I oppose this proposition,” Colin said. “Cha is just a better negotiator than we are. No offense, Dee.” Dee smiled and nodded. “His people should benefit from his leadership, and we shouldn’t start demanding anything. That is just the sort of attitude that will infuriate him! And we don’t want that since he doesn’t seem to hate us yet, like so many other leaders. Maybe one day we can ask something of him, something important that is in alignment with his values that he will agree to, but we should not demand anything of him. It isn’t right.”

“I agree with Colin,” Dee said. She didn’t often make strong stands, but when she did the Council took notice. “I would move we table Terry’s proposition, and further that we at least partially seal any snooping on his people unless it is specifically authorized by the Council.”

“Second!” Colin said with his typical enthusiasm.

Terry dutifully called for a vote, and his proposition lost. Dee’s won, with only Terry abstention.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2173
The Master Seeker sat at the table pondering his next move on the board he looked up and Eve was still watching him, she had not twitched a muscle in 12 minutes.

"Excellent, your chess move and your body control training are becoming first rate. Now, to my question, what would you do Eve?" The Master Seeker said as he pushed his pawn forward.

"You have lost, Master Seeker, that was not the correct move." Eve said as watched the Master Seeker for a reaction, but none was shown. "If I could make the decision I would order Beta and its Guide to board the nearly completed transport. Then they would move eastward and explore the areas there and with luck bond as many worms or spores as possible. Then the transport should come back and pick up a colony pod and set sail back. With even a little bit of luck they should arrive on the shores with at least several worms to provide protection."

"Why not south?" The Master seeker asked as he watched Eve make her move. "If we would move southwards we are assured that we will not meet anyone, all of the land is ours for the asking."

"No. In the short run that might be the safe move and in time I am sure father will move that way but for now we need to move east and block any expansion that might come that way. Also, the Peacekeepers seemed to have a very strong fondness for sea travel and they have explored a great deal of territory already. By placing a base to the east we might be able to thwart any further southern expansion into our domain."

"What is your analysis of the planet politic?" Master Seeker asked as he moved his rook into place.

"The Gaians think they are secure and that might be their downfall. The simple truth is that they are ringed, hemmed in, by potential adversaries that would like nothing more to plunder her treasures. Soon, one if not all of them might try to make a move against the Gaians. The Spartans, University and the Cyborgs are all within striking range of her. Another advantage for us to move eastward is if the others attack we are in a position to either aid the Gaians or grab our fair share of the spoils." Eve moved her queen. "Checkmate."

"Excellent game. I do not think I have one in over a turn. Another question, if you could choose would you make allies with the Gaians now or later?"

"I would wait. They are too arrogant right now and any relationship between us would be one of master and slave, in its most basic form. Let the hounds nip at their heels for away and then lets see how the wind blows." Eve reset the board. "I like Lady Skye from what I have read about her and she has a keen mind. But, they are still trapped by earth thinking. I agree with my father. No alliance until they switch to a green economic/social model. Their politics are irrelevant to our core belief that only by becoming one with Planet will we ever reach our new evolutionary stage. Once they become green in both mind, heart and soul will the new faith ever take hold. I have read that many of the Gaians still are fearful of the worms and planet. Sad."

"Eve, I think your father will be well pleased with your training today." The Master seeker stood up and kissed the child on the head. Such a mind for one so young.

"You do know that the our expansion west also could bring the my fathers vision, the faith, to the people of the atom quicker than expected. I doubt that they could withstand wave upon wave of mind worms. They are not that far ahead of us and as such a quick strike might be warranted." Eve suggested as she started another game against the computer.

The Master seeker stared at her for a few minutes.

"Eve, you were doing so well and now you lost, you nearly had won this session. That last move was too bold and overplayed. I shall prepare a lesson for you on our next session as to the current military preparedness of our faction and the others. Do not venture an opinion until you know all
the facts. Wanting something to be is a far cry than knowing it can be done. For now, your father is most correct. We wait and see how the wind blows. Our only real ally is Planet. We must be careful."

The Master Seeker turned and left the room. Eve stood up and reached under the pillow she used to raise herself up and took the papers that were underneath of it and threw them on the table. The papers were a military breakdown of Cult troops and military preparedness versus the other factions of Planet, the author was the Master Seeker.

[Hydro]

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2174

“Hey Dee, I have another research project for you,” Colin said.

“Colin,” Dee said in a measured tone, “it’s 2 in the morning. Can’t this wait?”

“No, I don’t think so. Hear me out, and look at these pictures.”

A series of holos flashed into Dee’s terminal, and a brief synopsis of each played across her holo. One showed a exuberant green primeval forest, complete with flowering plants at the edge of the towering tropical trees. Another showed a rich swamp, not unlike a cypress swamp of the American Mississippi delta before it disappeared due to sea level early rises in the 21st Century. A third was a panorama of a rolling wooded expanses that extended as far as the eye could see, with the sea coast along its western side. Dee drank these exotic images in, picking out details as they flashed by. The trees had an odd fractal pattern that Dee had never seen on any earth tree, and a creature swimming in the swamp had two tails and was an odd shade of pink.

There was something wrong, and after a moment Dee figured it out. “Colin,” she said, “these aren’t from Earth, are they?”

Colin’s image flashed back on her screen. “Bingo! You win the prize! Certain friends just squirted these to me, and while I was impressed I was sure you’d be bowled over by them. Any guesses as to what they are?”

Dee realized that Colin was toying with her, but she was willing to play along in spite of the unforgivably late hour. “They are biomes of a tropical jungle, which is dominated by photosynthesis – hence the reflected green hue. Since I saw Alpha Centauri A and B in the background of one image I’d conclude they are on Planet, although it could be an elaborate hoax. If so I’m going to be very upset with someone.” Dee let a sharp edge creep into her voice as she transfixed Colin with her gaze.

“Don’t kill me yet! They’re real, all right. I didn’t notice the suns myself – a dead giveaway, that. These are the initial surveys of our foil, and they show part of the coastline of a new island or continent. The part the they saw is covered by this jungle, Dee! And these are only some of the images they’ve found. I also have their initial bio surveys, which I might be able to throw your way for a price…”

“More butter cookies?” Dee asked. Colin nodded vigorously. “OK. You have yourself a deal. Be over here in a few hours and we can talk about it.”

Colin saluted in a sloppy fashion and the holo winked off.

Dee was in no mood to sleep now. Imagine – a jungle here on Planet, with a biome that has almost no apparent link to the xenofungus that covers the rest of the landmasses! The very idea was exciting, and enticing.

She threw off her covers and pulled on a robe, pausing for a moment to put her hair in a somewhat stylish Celtic hairnet Colin had given her a few years ago. He like touches like that, and Dee knew she liked the decorative item anyway. Then she found and put on her slippers and padded out to the small kitchen and began pulling out the ingredients for her ‘secret’ recipe. She decided to make a double batch since it would likely be a while before Colin left, and he had a habit of demolishing butter cookies.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2174

The governing committee of Light of the Planet looked out the window at the scene down below. Below them the Prophet moved among the population of the city to cheers and cries of happiness as he stopped every few feet to say a kind word or listen to a persons grievances. Just a week ago the streets had been filled with rioting looters and all mayhem had been caused but now peace and order had been re-established by the Prophet. When he arrived he did not come alone. With him were hundreds of medical specialists and security forces, Ranger Green berets. Within hours order had been re-established and the word had been sent out that one of Shari Moon's worms would be attached to the base to provide security and re-build trust with the people. The committee members watched as the Prophet worked his way closer to the command building and soon he entered through the main doors three levels below. The committee members turned and waited for the Prophet to arrive which he did several minutes later as the doors flew open.

"What in the name of the Planet has been going on here!" Cha screamed at the top of his lungs. "What were you idiots thinking that you could control over three thousand people with no recreation facilities and no extra guards! To think you fools are leading this city is beyond me. Ranger One begged me to be merciful that it was his error in not supervising his Rangers more closely. Well, he will be dealt with as will you!" Cha stormed around the room and then turned and walked up to each of them.

"Order has been restored. Gamma will be here soon to make sure all is well gain. YOU THREE ARE FIRED! Here are your orders to report back to command for re-assignment. I have hand picked your replacements who are already taking charge below and getting things back on line. I fully expect that by the end of the turn I will be able to remove the specialists and production can resume on the empath foil ship. GO NOW!" Cha shot his arm out pointing to the door and the three of them left very quietly. In a few minutes the Master Seeker entered followed by an aide.

"My Prophet, as ordered the ring leaders have been secured and have been quietly taken care of. The remains will not be found. As instructed DNA has been planted in the building they riot leaders were using for their headquarters. When the fire is put out by the Rangers everything will look like that one last attempt to promote chaos was attempted but failed. Evidence was also planted to discredit the ring leaders as paid spies of a foreign power. This should easily shift the sympathies of the people to us and in time win their hearts back. Also, Ranger Ones security codes have been removed and I have agents assigned to his office now to help supervise things at Command." The Master seeker quickly handed over the report that detailed all of the actions taken.

"Good, burn this now." Cha handed the report back not wanting to read it. "I will slowly rehabilitate Ivan Ivanovich so that he will learn who the master is and who is the servant. The fool! To think that he could get away with this foolish attempt to stash energy credits away in order to line his pockets rather than using it to fund a proper base here."

"Yes, the evidence I showed you is very convincing, is it not?" The Master Seeker fell into step with Cha as he began to leave the room.

"Yes, it was very convincing indeed, but, I still need Ivan and I do not want a power struggle in the Rangers, not now." Cha folded his arms back into the large sleeves of his gown and slowed his pace to the normal gate he took. To the world he was the Prophet, he who could not make a mistake!

*!*!*!*

Dreams of Green, MY 2175

“Yes, and with this baby we won’t be helpless again!” Argos said as he patted the side of the prototype impact rover. It had just survived its final test run, and it was now ready for full production.

The Council members in attendance showed mixed reactions. Ling, who was formerly governor of Dreams of Green and who started the prototype, was clearly ecstatic. She was all smiles, and when she wasn’t pumping the hands of the team of engineers and drivers that had demonstrated this marvel then she was expounding on how this device would ‘save the Gaian nation!’. Colin, by contrast, was rather quiet and thoughtful. Dee looked troubled and uncomfortable, particularly when one of the senior project engineers talked about kill ratios and raw firepower.

Then the lights dimmed and a holo simulation started, with the senior engineer’s voice as a voiceover. The sim showed the view from the cockpit, and a driver at the wheel and a combat engineer to her left at the controls. Outside the world tilted crazily as the rover took hard turns over rough terrain, one moment seeing blue sky as it hurled up a hillside, the next seeing only rocks and trees when it bounded down the other side. It was like riding a huge wave on a boat, only on land.

In the distance a city was visible. It had gleaming white rounded domes, and a few towers at its center. Only the most unobservant viewer wouldn’t see this as a representation of the University city Climactic Research, their second most populous. In a few moments the city grew in size as the vehicle approached. A high pitched whine filled the cabin, and the combat engineer was busy at his controls. Seconds later a brilliant white light filled the land in front of the rover, obscuring the city and the lands arounding it. When the light dissipated a fraction of a second later a curl of black smoke poured from the nearest perimeter of the city, and fire was licking around one of the larger domes. Some defenders started firing back, ineffectually it seemed, and this gave the impact rover a real target, which they promptly fired upon. The east section of the city started to char and decay as repeated bursts pierced it, and gradually the defensive fire ceased. Inside the cockpit the driver and engineer gave each other high-fives and yelled in near unison.

Dee was shocked. Colin said, “I hope Zak never sees this.”

Dee nodded in mute reply.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2175

To Deirdre Skye and the Gaian Council

In order to foster better relations between our two peoples we would wish to discuss the possibility of a trade in technology for information. We would like to offer you technology to build sea farms that should boost your nutrient production greatly. In exchange, we would only like access to some, information. Your Empath Guild gives you great "insights" to the workings of other factions. With this in mind we wish to get information on the University and the Peacekeepers. Specifically any map files you have on the University and the status of projects being worked on by the Peacekeepers and University. We are curious as to how soon, or how quickly they will complete the Virtual World project or any projects being worked on. I think this is a fair exchange since the technology we are offering is a very important building block for future discoveries. We only wish to make the following stipulation. If you agree to the exchange we will transmit the files without any "strings attached" in turn, we would like a detailed report and the right, after we review the report, to ask for clarifications on the information, if needed. I also wish to broach another subject. I have been contacted again by several factions leaders to build an "alliance" against other factions. As your empaths can probably tell you we have maintained our neutrality for now. We wish to avoid any entangling treaties or alliances at this time. However, we do wish to ask from you what your status is with the other faction leaders. It seems some of the other leaders on this planet do not like you Gaians very much, to put it plainly and as such we would like to know how you stand.

I hope that this can be the first of many important and meaningful exchanges.

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn

First Disciple of the Planet. He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Cha finished the letter and forwarded it to the command bunker for uploading on the next diplomatic link. He turned off his computer and eased himself back into the cushions and let out a small sigh.

"Do you think they will bite?" Asked the Master Seeker who sat across from Cha. The spy sat in the shadows and only moved slightly as he asked the question.

"I am not sure. Technology for information. Many of the other leaders have done so, some giving us vast amounts of information for technology that was far less valuable. The Gaians seem to be girding for war with the University or preparing to defend themselves." Replied Cha.

"Yes, that Zakharov has a terrible temper which is ill-suited for the work he tries to do on the diplomatic front. We deny his request to build this grand alliance then threatens us in the same breath if we do not join him. He may be a genius from all accounts but a spy, a negotiator, a deal maker, no, he is not that."

"Well, we should wait and see. If they went to all of the expense to build the Guild they should leap at the chance to make it work for them. Perhaps by making themselves as indispensable brokers of information it might cause the other leaders to hold their fists from striking at the Gaians, then on the other hand, they might want to grasp it for their own." Cha remarked in
a very monotone manner.

"We shall see, my Prophet, we shall see.."

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2176

Dear Cha Dawn,

After much discussion the Gaian Council is happy to accept your offer to trade information for your valuable technology. It is my personal wish that this exchange can be the beginning of a truer understanding between our peoples, and that we can grow to appreciate our mutual interests and goals.

First, you wished to know of our diplomatic status. At this point we have a friendship treaty with the Cyborgs, University, Spartans, and your society. Commissioner Lal and Chairman Yang will not even discuss a friendship treaty with us, and this distresses us greatly, especially since we have so much in common with the Peacekeepers. Our treaty with the Cyborgs has been the longest standing and we value it immensely. We also view our treaty with the University to be something of a triumph since our relations started with a severe misunderstanding that lead to a decades long war. Although we have broached the subject none are interested in a alliance, and perhaps that is too much to ask. We are all young societies that have yet to mature, and any alliance requires deep thought and consideration.

Second, we have attached our map files. You will find we know nothing about the Peacekeepers, and our knowledge of the University if fragmentary. We can only see three of Zak’s four bases, and significantly we are not able to see University Base, which undoubtedly lies to the west of our known area. We are correcting this information lapse with the construction of a small fleet of foils, which have and will deploy in the nest few years. You might also be interested in the map of our holdings, which we are sending you as a gesture of trust. Our land is modest in size, but we are increasing it through sea reclamation to the north and east. In a few years we will have our first colony outside of our continent in the Monsoon Jungle, which should be of enormous academic interest to us.

Third, you asked for the status of various Projects by the University and the Peacekeepers. The University will complete the Virtual World in 17 years and the Peacekeepers in nine years. I hope you can gage your efforts appropriately. I would caution you not to cut it too close since either of these factions has ample energy reserves to hurry their projects along. In that vein, you should know that our city Fallow Time completed the Human Genome Project this year. We are, quite frankly, exhausted by these Projects and have let necessary city improvements and defenses slide during these efforts. Our base governors will now correct that problem.

Walk with Planet,
Dee

[Hydro]

Cult, MY 2176

To the Gaian people, Deirdre Skye and the ruling body,

As we stated the technology we offered is attached to this transmission for your use. I think it will be of great use to you since the sea will provide a huge source of nutrients and energy in the years to come. However, I must caution you that kelp farms require great care. Kelp can expand beyond the sectors you have allotted for production very quickly so you must be on your guard to keep expansion to a minimum. We ourselves have problems in containing our forests and with much heartache they have expanded into the lush fields of fungus thus destroying them. We hope that someday we can recreate the process to re-seed sectors with fungus thus restoring the Planets ecology. We are striving to make as many in-roads as possible to this effect. Currently our scientists are working on improving our agricultural process and production through gene-splicing. Some variants of crops have shown promising results by adapting them to native planets. However, we are being very careful as to not to introduce a variant that might explode on the native environment and destroy Planet in its natural form. This is the risk. We are close to completing this project and with it unlocking more of the wondrous secrets of Planet. Perhaps when we complete it we could once again look at another exchange of technology. Since gene-splicing is a very advanced level of scientific research we would only accept an exchange of equal value or several technologies in exchange.

Perhaps it is our reluctance to become involved with the workings of other factions that lead the other leaders to pursue us and an alliance. Last turn I was contacted by four leaders all seeking alliances, all seeking energy credits, all seeking to destroy another faction. It is just another reason for us to remain neutral as long as possible. As I have stated earlier we can accept the current situation with your people since you do have a positive approach to Planet. However, until you or perhaps another faction becomes aligned with the Planet and adopts a green social and economic model we must maintain our current standing. With that being said I wish to give you a friendly warning, concerning your neighbors, I would look towards your defense as quickly as possible. Several of your "allies" seek alliances/power-blocs, with us, to overthrow you. Of course, we have refused such attempts but this only gives us more fuel for our belief in neutrality.

We do look forward to your map files. However, at this time we feel a mutual exchange of map files is out of the question. Through careful negotiations we have the foundations of a very good map of the planet. However, we are still missing a piece or two and the information you will send us will clear that up very quickly. Once again a word of caution. Your expansion into the jungles will put you very close to a faction that wishes your downfall in a very urgent way. Take precautions to defend any colony you establish!

To the second part of our agreement. We are also nine turns away from completing the Virtual World project. From what I have been informed we also have the largest treasury on Planet currently so the rapid completion of the project will be to our favor, not the Peacekeepers. We will continue for several more turns then commit our reserves to the completion. Also, we have switched projects and will work on the completion of a command and control network. We do not begrudge your completion of the Human Genome project. You have a large society that requires all the more resources to control. In fact, I am glad you completed it in the hopes you will see the need to switch to a green economic model. Many of our cities will begin building special children crèche's to improve the health and safety of our children and as a result we should begin to see some improvement in longevity and health among our people. But, back to the matter at hand. We would like to know how close the Hive is to completing a similar command and control network as I have been told they are very close. Can you confirm this. Also, you could give us an exact or approximate figure as to the amount of energy reserves the Peacekeepers have.

Lastly, I wish to know if I could begin transmitting some informative vids about our people on your recreational channels. Our society is focused on the preservation of Planet and we wish to inform your people of the hard work and the insights we have made. I think many of your citizens would welcome a fresh perspective on the benefits of becoming one with the Planet.

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn

First Disciple of the Planet. He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2177

Cha Dawn,

The Gaian Council has formally accepted your proposal. I hope the information we have provided, and will provide in the future, will aid your society as it grows and expands. In that light, you were interested in the status of the Peacekeeper’s energy reserves. They have 179 megacredits in reserve. You were also interested in the Hive’s progress on the Command Nexus, a Project you have expressed an interest in pursuing. They are 51 years from completing this effort, and you should know that our empaths have told me they have experienced some reverses recently. It is not clear what the cause of these reverses might be, and I would be very interested in knowing if such information might come into your field of knowledge. I can tell you that they haven’t lost any bases to another faction due to war, but little else. The world is largely black to us.

Our defense has been an object of increasing concern to us as we find our way on Planet. We have developed some significant offensive weaponry and are developing a fast response force that will help defend us if attacked, and a small cadre of ‘sneaks’ for defense against espionage or, if necessary, to initiate sabotage against those who wish us harm. We are critically lacking any defense technology, however, and it appears that only Chairman Yang possesses defensive technology. Moreover, he is researching advanced defensive technology that I am sure we would all benefit from. Like some others, he is not very interested in any kind of technology trade with us.

Your advanced in Gene Splicing would be of great interest to us, and the Council would be willing to trade technology for this valuable ability. At this point all we could offer is offensive technology in Nonlinear Mathematics, should you be interested.

I invite you to send any and all information to us. We are an open society and welcome any information that can help us understand and appreciate another’s way of life. In a like vein, I would offer to send you Gaian information and programs if you are interested. We have a wide range of entertainment and educational programming that you might find interesting or insightful, even that which is rather ‘base’ or light hearted.

It seems we should have taken your advice on empath foils. Our valiant foil met an untimely end recently while patrolling in the fungus. It seems to have met a hostile isle of the deep, and the details are sketchy. Our isle of the deep will investigate now that it has deposited our new colony in the Jungle. I hope that they get their scientific base established before the mysterious enemy you mentioned comes to investigate. You can be assured we will do what we can to defend ourselves.

You should know that the Gaian Council has recently approved a resolution switch to a Green economy this next year if the resources for the transformation can be appropriated. I would imagine that this will serve many purposes, and its primary disadvantage can be mitigated by a more egalitarian Democratic social structure in the near future. I would be interested in relaying your observations of the Green economic model to the Council, if you are willing.

Walk with Planet,
Dee

*!**!*

Cult, MY 2177

To our new brothers and sisters of the Planet, Lady Skye and the Gaian ruling council,

I was barely able to contain my joy and wonder at the news of your switch to a "green" society or as we like to say a planet friendly model. When you complete your transformation you will notice a lag in the growth rate but this is to be expected since you do not wish to overburden planet with more demands than she can supply. In time, you will find other means, new avenues will present themselves to you that will allow you to resume moderate growth. We ourselves are beginning to invest in children crèches which should reduce child mortality and increase the lifespan of the children raised in them. This alone will add quality of life to your people, not quantity, and thus increase your population over time. Also unlocking the secrets of the soil and the plants will increase your harvests and thus feed more people without adding more land to production. Once you complete your transformation contact us and at that time we can then begin discussions that could lead us to a greater alliance, the alliance for the Planet. Also, as an incentive once you complete your work we will transfer to you technology that will allow you to build those "defensive" structures" you seem to lack. We will gift these to you with no expectation of a return, it will be your reward for seeing the light of reason in protecting Planet and as such we wish for you to be protected in turn.

We appreciate the quick response to our "add-on" questions and clarifications. They were most useful, we have nearly 70 megacredits MORE in reserve than the Peacekeepers so we have a significant edge there. As to the command and control project, once again we will finish it decades before the Hive does. Your map information only confirmed our deep concerns for your safety. Your are "ringed" by potential enemies and only the lack of ship transportation by your enemies keeps your shores safe. I can see now why several leaders have been very desperate to gain this technology, the very same that wish to see you in chains. Suffice it to say you are safe now and for some time. We have withheld that technology from all factions since we too benefit from distance.

I have informed Ranger One, the chief administrator of our new faith, to begin transmitting our informational vids to your people. I hope that in time we can establish a chapter house in your capital city so that our Rangers can bring the word and will of the planet to your people. May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn First Disciple of the Planet.
He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

+++++++++++++++++++++

Cha sat in the conference room and looked at all of his advisors each one had been against any further advances with any factions for now with the exception of the Master Caretaker.

"I understand your concern but I have talked with the Master Seeker on this and we both agree. The fact that the Gaians "perceived" lead on the planet makes them the target for attack by the other factions will play into our hands! All of them want to take a bite out of her and if it were not for their mutual hatred of each other they would most probably have already done so. No, world domination is not our "end goal" but the preservation of planet, the nurturing of a new man born of Planet who works towards the day that he can live and walk amongst the fungus fields without an air mask or envious is my version of victory." Cha finished his argument by pushing back the reports of the nay sayers away from him.

"My Prophet, we only wished to warn you to be more cautious. To be more planned in our response. Not one faction alone can take out the Gaians so the University is ruled out and the Spartans and the Cyborgs seem to be their least violent neighbors though that Santiago women has no love for the Gaians, contempt is more like it. Farmers not fighters not being worthy of the right to live without Spartan control is how you put her response." Replied Ranger One.

"My Prophet, it is just that we are going into some very tenuous times. We have our transport taking John Miller and Beta to the future colony site and our empath foil is out searching for these sea based mind worms. We are close to completing two major projects so perhaps this is not the best of times to begin "reaching out" to others. You yourself said that we should wait and watch." Replied Byram Sung via the vid/comm-link he had.

"NO! now is the time, I have seen it in a vision. The Gaians and the Cult will sweep the non-believers aside and we will purify Planet in the future. Without the Gaians as our allies this will never take place!" Cha shouted back who then quickly stopped his outburst and quietly rose from his chair and walked into the his private rooms....

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2178

“This Cha Dawn seems to paint a pretty bleak picture of the factions on Planet. Do you really believe that all the other factions are lining up to attack us? Are they really that bloodthirsty?” Colin asked.

“Colin, don’t be naïve,” Ling said. “Of course they are lining up against us. They’re lining up against everyone, trying desperately to gain advantage. Don’t you remember the Peacekeepers asking us to betray Aki and declare war against her for a Pact with him? Or the constant demands from Zak and Yang to declare war on Aki, or from Aki asking us to declare war on the Hive and Zak? The only factions that hasn’t asked us to declare war on someone else are, surprisingly, the Spartans and the Cult.”

“I think we can forgive both Zak and Aki. They’ve been at each other’s throats for decades, literally,” Dee said. “Maybe we should act as intermediaries to end their wars?”

“Maybe,” Terry said. He’d been staying out of this particular discussion since versions of it came up in almost every Council meeting, “but keep in mind Zak’s first reaction to us.”

“Or Aki’s reaction!” Colin exclaimed. “She offered us a treaty of friendship immediately and has kept it for decades.”

“Point taken” Terry said. “Still, there is the strange ambivalence of the Peacekeepers. There is definitely something wrong when the Peacekeepers aren’t interested in peace, and are actively pursuing wars of conquest against their neighbors.”

“At least Cha Dawn seems to be reasonable, and even truly friendly. It’s been a long time since our friend Aki had a kind word to us,” Dee said.

“Look,” Terry said. “This isn’t helping. We can chase our tails and talk around these issues forever and it will get us exactly nowhere. If we want to do something positive, then fine. I agree that we can ask the other faction leaders to make peace, but besides that we can’t do anything else. “

Colin shut up, and Dee and Ling fell silent. That always happened when they realized that Terry was right, even if they didn’t like it.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2178

"I am still amazed by the constant demands made on us by the other faction leaders for plans and technical files on ship designs. Zakharov is so desperate for it he is willing to offer us the world for it. He wants an alliance, he will trade us technology for it, he will give us energy credits, it goes on and on. You were very shrewd in dealing with him my father to keep the bait dangling in front of him like that. He traded you those advanced designs for particle weapons for sea farm technology instead of the ship designs he wanted. Now we are equal in military technology to any faction on the planet and what is ironic about it is that we traded him sea farms for it, a technology he can not even use yet." Eve chuckled a bit at the end as she reached for her spoon to eat some very tasty fungus soup.

"Child, these people are desperate. From what I can tell and from the information the Master Seeker has provided the Gaians, Peacekeepers and us are the only factions that have ship designs. It is one of the most powerful technologies indeed. You have seen the map, look how Lal has used his transports to fling his colonies to the wind they are spread out all over Planet, a full third of Planet. Once his people get working on building and from what I have been told Lal believes in rapid expansion his people could be a very serious threat. You would have thought Lal would have learned from the mistakes his people made back on earth concerning the problems of overpopulation but alas no, he has not." Cha replied as he picked up the loaf of bread and broke it. He silently said a prayer for the protection of Planet and handed Eve the other part.

"Father, you have only contacted the various faction leaders once and they have contacted you several times, do you think that at some point they might become angry about our stance of neutrality?"

"Yes, my child I do. But there is nothing for it. Once the Gaians inform us of their success in switching to a planet friendly economic and social condition, as we have done, we will begin discussions on a greater alliance. We will give them the perimeter defense files so they can build walls and detection equipment to secure their bases against attack so that they will be protected from those who are enemies of the planet." Cha turned and picked up the spoon and begin to eat some soup as well.

"Father, I can see the obvious advantage here. Once we join with the Gaians we will become the most powerful alliance on the planet. But what concerns me and I am sure it does you that even though the Gaians might become "green" that they truly do not believe it, in their heart of hearts. Since opening up relations I have read their books and watched their vids and for them living in harmony with the planet is more a scientific exercise, not a spiritual one as we have done." Eve looked into her fathers eyes waiting for an answer.

"You are correct Eve. I do think the same way as well. The Gaians have lacked my guidance, my vision, my contact with the Planet. For our people living in harmony with Planet is both a physical and spiritual act. In time the Gaians will see the truth of it and when they do I will be their to guide their people to the promised land and you will be there by my side and together we will usher into reality a new man and women that will live with Planet and this planet will become a second Eden to us all." Cha replied as he reached across the small table and took Eve's hands into his. Together they began to say the prayer for the Planet and when they were done they resumed eating....

[Hydro]

Memory of Earth, MY 2179

Dear Cha Dawn,

I’m visiting one of our southern cities in the Uranium Flats and I wanted to drop you a note that our transition to a Green economy has gone well. It seems the doomsayers were wrong and that there weren’t any great social upheavals, or plummeting and expansion. If all goes well we will also become a true Democracy next year. Our energy resources are scant, but I have felt that it is important to give our people a true democracy and make the Council more of a guidance council to an elected parliament. There is always a risk when changing government in such a significant way, but I have always felt that in order to lead a people you have to trust them to do the right thing, and that is the essence of democracy itself.

You expressed some concern over expansion and it is likely that Gaian expansion will be slowing down soon. We have 14 bases now, with only a few more planned to the east and north on our continent. It is too early to tell what we can do in the Jungle since so little is explored, so we will have to wait and see. I do know that our new foil and isle are busy exploring the seas around us, and three more foils are in production. I expect that we will know the areas surrounding us fairly well in the near future, including the mysterious ‘enemy’ you mentioned is proximate to the Jungle. I can only hope the are far away since our ability to defend our new base there is rather scant.

A few of our bases are girding our defenses, but most are concerned with development and inner improvements. I expect that you would agree that building vertically is more ecologically prudent then endless sprawl and the Council embraces this idea, and I hope a future democratic government will, too.

I’d be happy to exchange ambassadors when our people finally meet. For us you are somewhere ‘out there’ and, not knowing your situation, I wish you well.

Dee

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2179

To the esteemed Lady Skye, the Gaian Parliament and the Planet loving Gaian people my most warm greetings,

It seems we have completed the Virtual world project but the command and control network was completed by Lal and his Peacekeepers. I have also been informed by my aides that the University and the Hive have embarked on new technologies, new special projects. We will continue to accumulate resources at Mind of the Planet in the hopes of working on another worthwhile project.

As I have promised the attached files on perimeter security are yours, as a gift to your people in token of their determination and foresight to become with the Planet. I would suggest that you begin building these security structures as soon as possible at all of your border cities with the University. I find it interesting that your people have chosen a democracy. For the people of the Planet, there is only me. I think my children would be lost without me and as such they have put all of their faith, hope, dreams and power on my shoulders. I know it is not a task that every leader could measure up to but I have a great ally, Planet. Planet sustains me and gives me the strength to guide my people and with our two peoples becoming closer together I will be ready to help them as well.

In time I hope we can exchange ambassadors but for now, due to the distance, it would be too difficult. If you need our assistance or you wish to explore new avenues of friendship or exchanges, please call me.

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn First Disciple of the Planet.
He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++

Cha looked at the video feed from the command center of Dawn of the Planet. Captain Charles Seabird, commander of the empath foil, had uplinked the most recent footage of his expedition. What they saw amazed them. Nearly the entire sea area north and west of their main islands were covered in sea fungus. Hundreds of sectors of a vast floating sea of fungus.

"Amazing, simply amazing!" Cha shouted. " To think Planet could create such wonders. Imagine what is lurking in the depths of that fungus! No navy could ever penetrate the fungus safely once we bond several sea worms! It is like having a vast shield to our north. I understand the captain of the transport is going to try and cross over at this one section here." Cha pointed to a spot on the screen where the fungus had narrowed to only one or two sectors. Once across the transport would be free to continue westward and deposit Beta and his guide at their intended target.

"Yes, my Prophet, you are correct." Ivan Ivanovich replied. It had been decided that all sea going ships were to be crewed and controlled by the Rangers. " Captain Seabird is already making maximum speed to intercept the transport once it clears and if needed to defend the transport."

"Excellent. If all goes well then in the time it takes us to make our next breakthrough we could have Beta on the new land mass to the west exploring new lands and hopefully bonding more worms!" Cha turned and walked out of the command room which had tripled in size over the past three turns. Even though the Cult did not get the command and control project completed before the Peacekeepers there had been a few side effects that were useful.

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2180

Cha Dawn,

The Council was very impressed by your generous gift, and we will build perimeter defenses at our more crucial bases. I have to say that even our more cynical members of the Council were taken aback, particularly since this will likely be useful in the near future. All we can offer in exchange at this time is an open offer to give you information you might deem to be useful, and if we come across anything that we think might be interesting to you we will not hesitate to pass it your way.

We were able to pull together the resources to change to a democratic government, and the first Parliament will be convening in the next year. The parliament and the prime minister will have primary legislative and executive power, and the Council has been assigned a supernumerary status. In the case of a vacancy the prime minister will propose and the parliament approve future members. Current members, myself included, will have permanent status as Council members, should we choose to accept the appointment and continue our service. Our primary function will be as a diplomatic arm and as an advisory panel to the parliament and prime minister. A supreme court will also be appointed and confirmed, and with this judicial branch our government will be complete.

Congratulations on completing the Virtual World project, and I imagine this will be a continuing boon to your people. I was not surprised that Lal completed the Command Nexus when the Virtual World was denied to him, especially when the resources were already at hand. If we come across a technology that will allow you to complete a Project we will forward it to you immediately.

Deirdre Skye and the Gaian Council

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2180

To the enlightened Lady Skye, the noble government of the Gaian people and their Planet loving peoples,

We do not expect nor require any gifts in return. The voice of the Planet wills me to help and nurture any people that come to the light of understanding and live in harmony with Planet. It was not by my will but Planets that the gift was made to you use it to protect your people and
Planet. If you feel the will of the Planet move you to offer a gift or information then it is by the will of the Planet you do so. All praise and wonderful glory to Planet!

I am concerned that the Peacekeepers did complete such a powerful project as the command nexus as it is being called now. This has an ill feeling to it and I worry that this will only embolden them to do something rash. Be on your GUARD!

Soon we will be expanding again. Our transport has found new ground and a worthy Guide and a companion mind worm will soon begin exploring the new land. The transport will return in a turn or so and prepare for the transport of a new colony pod to be established on the new land. Our empath foil has yet to uncover any signs of sea worms, much to my distress.

May Planet shine on your good people and give them peace of mind that transcends all worldly desires!

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn

First Disciple of the Planet. He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++

John Miller stepped out of the landing craft, specially built to transport mind worms and their companions and stepped onto the new land. John had been told by both the Prophet and Master Guide Byram Sung that he would never return to his native lands. It was just impractical to make any return trip back to the core colonies any time soon. Within days the transport would leave and he, Beta and the support team would be all alone. He had been told that to the east the Planet Cult foil Sea Spirit was exploring but it would be a turn or more if they would need any help if they could get here at all. No, he was alone. Perhaps this is what the first colonists felt like in those first days after the disaster of the Unity befell them. Alone, lost, frightened with little to no resources. Well, at least he had Beta, a huge amount of supplies, a base camp with advanced communication gear, a doctor, two medics, and a whole host of apprentice Guides in training all looking to make a name for himself. What intrigued him the most was that he did not hold complete command of the team. This young, very young girl, named Eve was in charge of some aspects of the expedition. The Prophet seemed to defer to her several times and the Prophet warned him that Eve was special that she had wonderful talents. Well, Shari Moon had been barely out of puberty when she landed her first worm so, this was not all that different.

"All right lets get going!" John shouted back at the boat team. " Get the planks down now and so Beta can get off. If he even touches the water he will begin to become very agitated and you do not want to see him angry!"

*!*!*!*

Northern Sea, MY 2181

“Sir, we have another blip in the fungus. Orders?”

Captain McKenny looked over at his Sensitive, who was in constant contact with the isle of the deep they were riding with. The empath closed his eyes and was silent for a few minutes, his head lolling slightly to one side. Everyone around him was silent out of respect and a mote of concern, since they knew the results of this touch would determine their future.

After a few minutes the sensitive’s head righted itself and he came out of his trance. His eyes opened, and he focused on the Captain. “The blip is an isle, a young one that ha s just accreted in the sea fungus. At the beginning of its cycle it is likely to be receptive to patterns as its sentience coalesces. If we can influence this process we could gain another ally.”

McKenny nodded to acknowledge this new information. “Thank you, Mathers. Be sure to thank your isle for me.”

“The isle is not mine, and you needn’t thank me,” the sensitive said. “I will try to relay your thanks, even though mindworms typically haven’t understood such concepts, particularly when they are so young and haven’t been in contact with humans for any length of time.”

“Please ask the isle to advance on the larval isle in the fungus and initiate contact. Everyone else,” the Captain said, “prepare yourselves. There are never any guarantees, so gather all your protective and survival gear, just in case. Barnes, contact Michelle and tell her to be ready in case this doesn’t go well. Clear?”

There were a few ‘ayes’ and even more nods.

As they finished they discerned the isle was moving north toward the blip. It was always a hair raising experience when the isle moved since the resonance fields generate sympathetic static elecctric fields, which wash over the human inhabitants of the isles. As a rule the static was harmless, but it was disconcerting to feel a fine tingling all over your body that felt disturbingly like small crawling insects.

Already the isle was flowing over the sea fungus, and the crew hurried on their tasks.

*!*!*!*

It was over before the crew even knew it. All the crew felt was a particularly strong static field, and some of them who had some sensitivity thought they heard snatches of ideas, fragments that were unintelligible.

Sensitive Mathers opened his eyes. “Captain, we have a new friend, our third isle that has found harmony with us. It is making its way this way and will expect a human crew to establish a link. It is quite extraordinary, Captain. This isle seems to be openly curious. It may even decide to form links with semi-sensitves. I’d recommend sending a number over and let the isle decide. Who knows, maybe this one will link with more than one! Now wouldn’t that be interesting.”

“Yes, it would,” the Captain said. “I have a few candidates in mind and will get on that right away.”

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY2181

The Master Seeker looked at the report from the exploration team and smiled. The team had not been there more than a turn and they had already impressed a young spore launcher and failing the capture of a mind worm defeated it and harvested the planet pearls for their vast energy stores. Also with the radar mapping done by both teams it now looked very good that the large land mass to the north was just that and it would be an excellent place for the people of the Planet to expand to. Cha had already ordered a colony pod to be built and one was in construction now but it would be 10 turns before it would be built, transported and then set-up. The report from the Master Caretaker was interesting as well he was going to advocate sending one if not two of the terra-former teams to the new area so that they can begin site preparation and begin improvements. A very interesting plan. There was little left to do on the two islands for terra-formers. Cha would not build anymore mines, roads now connected every city, sensor arrays were built and on-line, there were four farms with solar collectors and two mines on very rich mineral sectors. No, there was little left for them to do unless the Master Caretaker had found the ability to plant fungus.

He flicked a few keys on his keyboard and was able to bring up the report from Shari Moon and then Ivan Ivanovich. Nothing of any real importance from either one of them. Cha was always the wild card when it came to these meetings. The others were so careful to put everything in writing, none of them had Cha's photographic memory. Well, he was sure that Cha would report
that their next scientific breakthrough was only a few turns away. Gene-splicing should be able to add a vast amount of nutrients to the strained system and hopefully the Master Caretaker's new sea going terra-formers would provide even more energy. The new children crèches were being built and they should do wonders to add to the longevity and health of the population but only at those cities that will build them. In time all would have them but it would be slow going for awhile.

There was a lot to be proud of but still, the Cult was vulnerable. The other factions were racing to gain as much technology and power as possible while the people of the Planet resisted this expansion or rather Cha resisted. But even still he had been very good so far. With a bit of luck and good planning the Cult was second when it came to overall power on the Planet.

The Master Seeker hit a few more keys and deleted all of the reports his agents had obtained. He slowly got up and began to go to the door, it was almost time for the monthly meeting....

[Hydro]

Vale of Winds, MY 2182

Cha Dawn,

I am here at our newest base to celebrate the opening of the Unity pods that are situated adjacent to it. This base is immediately north of Gaia’s Landing, and the pods were originally floating in the sea, and as a result they were in accessible to us. We raised the land here with two intentions: to provide more land for bases near Gaia’s Landing, and to get the pods out of the water. This may seem like doing it the hard way, but it worked.

Vale of Winds was actually established a few years ago, but it took a while to finish the former there to open the pod, which we did a few weeks ago. We were always cautious about what the pods might contain after all these years, and knew they might be inhabited by mindworms so we took precautions. Vale of Winds, being adjacent to the pods, was able to study them thoroughly before opening to reduce risks and our caution has paid off. When we opened the pod it contained Industrial Base technology, which previously Chairman Yang has hoarded to himself. The Council would have gladly traded him any technology he wanted for this, but he refused. That was his and his people’s loss.

The Council has fully approved transferring this technology to you and your people. In addition to allowing the creation of a more sophisticated industrial infrastructure it will also allow a Project that enhances economic performance. You might be interested in this Project. Another key deficiency will be addressed since Industrial Base allows the use of better armor for our civilian and military units. We will begin construction of a trance synthmetal defender immediately, and will upgrade our defenders as we can. This and a perimeter defense, which was so kindly provided to us by your people, will give us some senses of security in the future.

It seems odd that it has taken so long for us to re-establish our industrial capabilities here on Planet. But in a way maybe that is a good thing. The wanton rape and pillaging of Earth’s resources was done to feed its industrial machine, and perhaps this lag means that we will be different in our treatment of Planet. I would hope you would agree that we must live in harmony with Planet, and do what we can to understand and nurture its denizens.

We will open the second pod next year, and I will let you know what we have found. You should also know that we have identified a few pods floating by some of the other factions. We intend to open these pods when our isle reach them. The Council had a rousing discussion on whether this was ‘stealing’ or not, and in the end we came to a consensus that if they had left them unmolested the other factions were not interested in their contents so they are fair game.

Dee

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2182

To the most noble Lady Skye, the distinguished leaders of the Gaians and their Planet loving peoples,

Greetings, we thank you for your most generous gift. We will complete the merchant exchange project in less than four turns which should boost our industrial capacity greatly. I for one am not too upset about our lack of industrial progress. We people of the Planet have do not love the machine as some others do, only the Planet. However, without some industrial capacity it does make our work on Planet more difficult. We do not plan on any extensive efforts into this field since our scientists do not have much expertise in this area. Our strengths are our understanding of Planet and as such we will move towards those areas.

It seems our scouts are having excellent luck and the land mass they have discovered has revealed a strange "crater" like area. It is massive! The crater itself would could hold one of our islands all by itself. Preliminary surveys indicate that the whole area is rich in resources and minerals and once we can get a colony pod over their we plan on setting up a base at the heart of the crater. I am informing you of this find so as to give you some indication as to our location and the area we will claim for the People of the Planet. At some time in the future we will consider giving you a map of our area but my advisors still caution me that such information could be transmitted to others and that is something we do not want.

May Planet shine on your good people and give them the peace of mind that transcends all worldly desires! May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn First Disciple of the Planet
He who walks in the soul of the Planet

*!*!*!*

[ b]Northern Sea, MY 2183[/b]

“Will the worms like each other? Don’t they fight sometimes?” the Council liaison asked.

“Not that I know of,” Sensitive H’Lar stated. “The only time worms have attacked each other is when an allied worm was prompted to attack by their Gaian sensitives. However, when attacked the worms defend themselves vigorously. Of course, worms will attack anything ‘foreign’, such as rovers or foils in and near the fungus. Does that answer your question?”

“Interesting. So the larval worm we allied with a few years ago will be happy to board the isle? And we can transport this worm to explore other areas?”

“Yes. That’s the idea,” the Sensitive said. “It will be a while before we get there, but we have a detour first. We’re going to Hive territory to harvest some Unity pods we have detected bobbing in the sea. Chairman Yang hasn’t seen fit to explore them, so we will do so first, if we can.”

“Won’t he be offended? Each faction seems to have an allocation of pods that made it to land after Unity broke up. Isn’t it stealing?” Liaison Maywood asked.

“Frankly, I don’t think the Council cares. I haven’t spoken with them, of course, but everything I’ve heard is that he has been uniformly unpleasant and uncommunicative. Moreover, his society is a repressive warren, a horrible police state, and his economy is a horribly inefficient planned model. I just hope we get them before he does.”

“That makes sense. How long will it take to get there, and won’t it be dangerous?”

“It will take many years,” the sensitive said, “and it will be dangerous. The pods could be infested with mindworms and by no means are all of them friendly. We’ll have to take our chances. If you’d like I can put you ashore with our new larval land-based worm before we open it.”

“No, no,” he said. “I wouldn’t miss it, and I’ll take the risks.”

“You’ll have plenty of time to think it over in case you change your mind. Just let me know,” H’Lar said. “Would you like to see the rest of the isle now?”

“Oh, yes! I’m very interested in anything you might have to say, and what I might find. The Council will be very interested, too, since they don’t get a chance to get out as much as they might like. Lead on!”

H’Lar motioned to his arm to his right and the two of them trudged over the uneven isle surface, which formed clumps that were comprised of the husks of now long dead worms which formed millions of miniscule air-filled compartments. The sensitive pointed out various features, including the hard to understand resonance field that provided movement for the isle.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2183

Eve began to stood up and was stunned by the sight she beheld. There was the great crater valley. Immense. Massive. The first sight of it took her breath from her and she was awestruck. Nothing she had every seen compared to this!

"Mistress Eve, can you come over here?" John Smith asked the mind worm Guide to Beta.

"Yes, what is it?" She said as she walked over to him.

"I have ordered telemetry to be sent back to command but the Prophet wishes to speak to you!" John handed the headset to her.

"Yes, my Prophet, this is Eve."

"Eve. Greetings, may the peace of the Planet find you and keep you well. Can you give me a good report?" Cha asked of his daughter.

"Yes." Eve walked away from John so he could not hear. “Yes, my father I can. This is the most perfect spot ever. I almost changed my mind and ordered the transport captain to change course and head directly hear rather than prepare the sight we had chosen earlier. But, it is best we stick to our plans. The landing sight is perfect for a base. It has access to a river, a rich nutrient sector and an offshore mineral deposit that from all reports has the potential for high yields. Also, it serves as the perfect staging area between the two land masses. However, instead of building improvements the base will concentrate on building colony pods as quickly as possible. It will be the transit point for some time for our people. Once the transport is able to shuttle enough colonists across the sea then a new pod will leave the base. From all indications right now we should be able to establish another 6 to 8 colonies here. Not as encouraging as we had thought but time will tell. This area will be much more rich in nutrients and minerals as our current area so that is something."

"Eve, sensors have picked up a rogue isle of the deep operating east of our main islands. I have ordered the Captain of SEA SPIRIT to investigate and hopefully bond the sea worm to us. I am telling you this because if something should go wrong it might be sometime before you could rejoin me. You will have to make do with what you have. The transport is returning to you and should make landfall next turn, it is loaded with two terra-formers. Should things go bad I will contact Guide Smith and inform him that you are now in command. Clear?" Cha asked.

"Yes, father I understand. I love you. Eve out."

"I as well, Prophet out."

*!*!*!*

Southeastern Gaian Continent, MY 2184

“We’ll be there in a few weeks! And once we get there…” colony pod leader Matherson said.

“Sir!” a voice said over the radio.

Matherson stopped and activated the communication link. “Yes?”

“Sir! Forward unit, we have a problem. There is a worm landing at our colony site, and there’s a isle with a spoor launcher in the area. A former crew is trying to evacuate, but they may not get out and they warned us. They are telling us to reverse course right away and head west, and try to get a hold of the nearest military units to help us. We have no ability to resist, Sir.”

“Thank you, and get out when you can. Matherson out,” he said as he turned toward his attaché. “Get all the pod elements on line immediately and tell them to reverse course. Tell them as little as possible, just tell them it is an emergency and to do it right now. Clear?”

“Yes,” she said as she dialed a State 1 emergency message to all pod units, which were spread out over this 10,000 km sector.

“Then put out an all point bulletin to get the nearest military unit, preferable a trance unit or a rover, to help us,” Matherson said. “Tell them this is a Stage 1 emergency, and give them a full rundown, including our disposition and the known positions of the worms.”

‘Getting responses, Sir. Over 90% have reported in, and they are relaying the Stage 1 to all other units to get a 100%,” she continued. “Sending general Stage 1 to nearby areas.” She paused, listening to a message. “We have acknowledgement, and they’ll send what they can, likely a trance scout.”

“Good. Keep on it, and let me know when they’ll be here.” He turned to a tactical display and tapped at a holo control, zooming into the area proximate to the worm threat, which he pondered for a moment. “We will be safe for a while, but after the worm hit the fungus there’s no way we’ll be able to outrun it.” Almost to himself he said, “The former crew isn’t going to make it.” He turned to his attaché, “Will the count make it there in time?”

His attaché shook her head.

Matherson became grim. “Do what you can, and keep me informed. I have to squirt Gaia’s Landing to let them know.”

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2184

To the most beautiful Lady Skye, the knowledgeable Gaian Government and the Planet loving Gaian people,

I have been contacted by the Hive informing me that the Peacekeepers have attacked some of their holdings. I do not have a clear picture as to the extent of the attack, something the Chairman was unwilling to share. Suffice it to say that if it had been trivial I doubt he would have contacted me hoping to gain an alliance with me. I pass this piece of information on to you since I know you have both sea worms and scout ships patrolling the seas and I would hate for them to become entangled in a conflict that you would not like to be part of. This information is yours to do with as you please. All I can hope is that you will use it to save lives.

I think the geo-political situation on Planet is becoming more hot by the turn. From what I can tell the University, Cyborgs, Hive and now the Peacekeepers are waging active campaigns of warfare. For some strange reason the Spartans have decided to sit on the sidelines for now and I
suspect are waiting to test the winds.

The situation here at home could not be better. Next year we will unlock the secrets of genetic manipulation and thus increase our harvest dramatically. Our scouts are nearing completion of their work on the new land mass to our east and our terra-formers will land next turn to begin
their hard work on that new land. What I would like to share with you at this time is a discovery of a new native life form. While one of our Guides was exploring the northern part of the new land he encountered what could only be explained as bizarre. From out of a fungal patch towering nearly 90 meters into the sky was a giant fungal tower. Its girth was a little over 100 meters at the base. When the scout/spore launcher tried to contact it no activity occurred that you would expect from a meeting with a mind worm. However, readings suggest that a vast supply of planet pearls could be part of the tower. Also, from our early studies it seems that these fungal towers are a breeding grounds for the other native life forms. What the linkage is between the two Planet has not given us that wisdom yet. I hope to learn more soon. I would suggest not harming these towers since they are as of now still unexplained and we do not fathom their purpose yet.

May Planet shine on your good people and give them the peace of mind that transcends all worldly desires!

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn

First Disciple of the Planet. He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

[Hydro]

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2185

Cha Dawn,

We have noticed that the other faction leaders seem to be a little bloodthirsty, and they have a distinct propensity for declaring war against each other. At this point we’re not sure if this spate of wars are driven by ideology, which is understandable but reprehensible, or a desire to conquer a neighbor, which is just reprehensible. As a matter of policy we have not allowed ourselves to be drawn into any wars, and the Gaian Council is gratified that you have not allowed yourselves to be drawn into these unsavory conflicts. At this point there is little we can do to save lives besides asking the combatants to agree to a truce. We did so last year, and Zakharov agreed to a truce with Aki. It never made sense that the two research-oriented factions were at each other throats. I am at a loss as to what to do about the other factions since they will rarely speak to us, but we do what we can. I trust you will do likewise.

Our knowledge of the area surrounding us has expanded considerably. We were able to acquire the map files of the Peacekeepers for our data on Centauri Empathy, which a bargain. This technology might even allow the Peacekeepers to gain a greater understanding of Planet and its life forms. Moreover, we have been exploring a considerable portion of our territory. We know, for instance, that the Spartans lie to our south, although we don’t know the layout of their holdings, which are modest. Our knowledge of Planet grows significantly with each year as our isles and foils explore the lands around them.

As always, I thank you for your peoples goodwill and the Council will be happy to help you as we can.

Walk with Planet,
Dee

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2185

John Francis Hogan stepped into the control room of what was being called the merchant exchange center. He had been the leader of the project since its conception and now he was awaiting the arrival of the Prophet. The room was filled with men and women who constantly monitored all aspects of energy consumption and usage thought the city of Mind of the Planet. Every watt of power was measured and controlled from here and as a result a vast increase in the production, use and storage of energy was about to take place.

"Sir, the Prophet is here." Hogan's aide pulled at his elbow and whispered quietly.

"My Prophet, all praise and honor are yours! Come let me show you what we have done." Hogan quickly moved in front of the Prophet and bowed deeply.

"Director Hogan, I have seen the plans and studied them I do not think I need a tour, but I thank you anyway. I will be honest with you I care little about the science of this project. But what I do care about is results. From what you have told me you expect to nearly double our energy output in just a second year. I will need that energy. I have begun new work at our labs that will allow us to re-plant the fungus fields and help us maintain our harmony with Planet. I will need the energy from your project as quickly as possible." Cha stated as the briefly moved his hand around the room blessing it and the workers there.

"That should not be a problem my Prophet. Not at all." Hogan replied.

"Excellent, fine work!" Cha placed his hands on Hogan's head and quickly said a blessing and then turned and left the room.

Hogan waited a few minutes until he was sure Cha had left the area. He had been a strong supporter of the new faith for some time, every since he was a child. But, when he began to learn about the science and engineering that had been left behind on Earth and what other factions had already achieved he always dreamed of doing something equally grand, equally powerful. Now
he had.

"All right everyone I am turning her on now! With the extra energy and the added nutrients we are getting from the altered plants we will be growing and building at a historic record!" Hogan announced as he turned around and fit his key into the panel and switched on the project.

*!*!*!*

Memory of Earth, MY 2186

“They did what?” empath master Su Hoi stated.

Karlson grinned. “Captured another isle, Sir. It’s our fourth isle, and there’s something else. It had a life form we haven’t seen before, although Cha Dawn of the Cult has mentioned them: spoor launchers. They are strange beasts according to the first reports, and the spoors they fire can be horrific. The spoors pulverized a sensor and a farm, over ten years of terraforming effort. It will be interesting to study, if it lets us.”

“Yes, it will!” Su Hoi said. “That brings us to three worms, one launcher, and four isles. They’re all pretty small, aren’t they?”

“Of course,” Karlston said. “All except the first worm are larval stage, as best as we can tell. They have a strange growth cycle and seem to thrive on conflict where they absorb the remains of the defeated worm.”

“Or the larvae burst out of their hatchery in a human head,” Su Hoi said.

“There is that. It is clear, Sir, that our greater empathy with Planet is assisting us better understand the alien life form, and our ability to bond with them is much greater. I wonder why we didn’t do this sooner.”

“Only the Council knows. I’m sure they have their reasons.”

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2186

Eve walked along with Dawn in tow. The exploration team had been moving back down the crater walls into the great valley when the mind worm appeared. It had been moving at near full speed at them when it suddenly stopped and waited. Eve had known instantly when the worm mass had stopped what had happened. Her training with her father had prepared her for this moment and now she had bonded a worm. There had been some arguing at first about the whole issue. John Smith had contacted the Master Guide almost at once who then wanted her sworn into the order of the Guides. However, Eve keyed in her emergency comm. channel to her father and the issue was solved at once. The Prophet had exempted Eve from all service and that she and her worm, Dawn, were independent operatives under his direction only. Suffice it to say the Prophet's commands ended any further discussion. Eve had then decided to break from the team and go off on her own of awhile and so her she was.

"Dawn, I have wanted to see what is on the southern side of this crater for some time, shall we explore it?" The worm could only communicate in very basic ways but it was eager to go, that she was sure of.

Then lets go, lets explore this new world she thought.

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2187

“I have to say I’m impressed. Even a social scientist like me can see that Gene Splicing will have enormous implications, allowing us to enhance the natural abilities of organisms on Planet and from Earth. But, I wonder if we have the wisdom to use it wisely? Look at what happened to Earth. There were 15 bio-plagues in the last decade alone, and all of them were directly tied to the unlawful or unwise alteration of life. Remember Black Algae, which some brainchild designed as a more efficient food source? It did that, and when it escaped it choked the Black Sea until it died. No sunlight got through the algal mats, and when the blooms died down the entire sea when eutrophic. That was a catastrophe.”

Terry leaned forward. “I think you misunderstand the abilities of Gene Splicing, Colin. This is specifically designed to allow the safe alteration of our Earth food stocks to Planet norms. In other words, we can now use the huge nitrogen stores to their benefit, and can combat the chronic deficit of carbon due to the carbon sinks. We can design our crops to work around these problems, and allow them to flourish, providing us with more bounty. Does that make sense?”

“Well, yes it does. But can’t we design the killer viruses, or invasive biomes,” Colin asked.

“No, we can’t, although we might be able to in the future. That is a long way away, likely many decades,” Terry said. “I agree with you, though. I hope we do gain some wisdom before we gain such abilities. Or at least I hope we gain some ability to protect ourselves before some of the other factions since they seem to be more than eager to initiate hostilities.”

Ling finally took an interest, as she always did when hawk issues came up. “The sooner the better. I don’t think that any faction, except for ours and maybe Cha Dawn’s, would hesitate in using any weapon they had, and I have no doubt they would use it against us if they saw fit. It needs to be our priority, as does improving our defenses, and offensive abilities.”

Colin shook his head vehemently. “No, we don’t. We can improve what we have, and focus our efforts on peaceful development of our societies and those of our neighbors. We won’t win any friends by pointing a gun at them, Ling. We can get compliance, maybe, but not friends. But that is what we need – friends. Friends stick with you, while those who comply due to a threat or a perceived threat will bolt and likely stab you in the back at the first time they can.’

Ling waved his argument away. They had been over this ground hundreds of times and the policy battle lines had been drawn.

Deirdre intervened since she didn’t want to have the debate devolve again. “We still have to decide what we will direct our scientists to do. I propose we have them focus on Ecological Engineering, which will allow us more resources to build both our infrastructure and defenses.”

Colin thought about it, and then offered a ‘Second’. Terry, dutifully noting the proposal and second, called for a vote. For once, it was unanimous.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2187

Cha Dawn was feeling annoyed. His chief scientists who ran his research teams had been full of excuses so he ordered them to leave and not to come back until they had solutions not problems. Cha had demanded that they continue to try and force ahead as far as possible with the line of research they had been working on but now they seemed to have hit a brick wall. Complaints about inadequate lab space, lack of computer time, lack of this lack and of that were all they could say. The bottom line is that it will take them nearly 30 turns to complete the next step in their research goal. That was not acceptable. It had been hoped or believed that that the merchant exchange project would give the scientists more than enough energy but that has turned out to be not the case. The people of the Planet were already committing nearly 70% of their energy output to research and they were building two more network nodes with more in the planning stages but what they needed was more labs and more labs meant more cities. The colony pod from Heart of the Planet was done and next turn it would leave to embark on the transport to the new lands. If everything went according to plan then in 5 maybe 6 turns they would have a new base operating on the new continent. What worried Cha now was the fact that the mind worm scouts had found indications that perhaps some of the surrounding sea area next to the crater on the eastern side might be claimed by another faction, the University. It was a good thing then that the people of the Planet now had three worms and one spore launcher operating on the new land. Should anything happen they would be a force to contend with. Also, the land was heavily covered in fungus which made it ideal for the worms.

Cha was feeling a little better that he was able to calm his mind and review the situation. He slowly stood up and realized that his hip was hurting him. Soon, very soon he would have to return for another special treatment. Byram Sung had been told he would not be able to withstand another treatment and arrangements had already been prepared for Shari Moon to take over the
Guild of the Guides. He really liked Shari and especially her young son, who, looked very much like him...

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2188

Council Member Ling had an almost comical grin on her face. “No, no,” she said as she shushed Colin. “I want to hear it again since I just don’t believe it. Dee, what did Zak do when you called him?”

“He was very polite, and I have to say it was almost like he was pandering, fawning almost,” Dee said. “We have a long series of pleasantries, and he actually asked me about my research. He didn’t even do that when I worked for him back on Unity. When I asked questions in return he was enthusiastic in his answers. Did you know he is married and has three children and five grandchildren? Our old aesthetic Zak, married! He also asked polite but not intrusive questions about all the Council members, and even some general questions about our society.”

“So, he was servile,” Ling said.

Dee paused. “No, not servile. That is too…base for Zak. But he did seem somewhat submissive, which is an amazing change from our first meeting.”

“And it’s all because of our military buildup,” Ling announced in an overly loud voice. “Now that he is staring down synthmetal garrisons, impact speeders, probe teams, and mindworms I’m sure he can do the math and knows that provoking us is a very bad bet.”

Colin shifted in his chair as Ling listed the troops that faced Zak, and defended the Gaian cities. Ling had been the driver of the buildup, and had built the Gaian’s only Command Center at Dreams of Green when she was Governor there. It was not a prototype haven, and it focused on military production with support shifted to nearby cities so their industrial ability was not significantly impacted.

Dee nodded. “Maybe. He also could realize we mean him no harm and only want to be good neighbors.”

Ling snorted. Colin said, “Here, here!!”

Ever practical, Terry said, “Did he agree to trade technology?”

“Not directly. He said he’d be happy to trade technology after they have finished the Citizen’s Defense Force, and then he’d be open to any trade.”

“He’s just putting us off,” Ling said. “He’ll have some other excuse when he finishes the CDF, and then another. We’ll never get any technology out of him. For that matter, we haven’t gotten any technology trades from anyone except the Cult, and they are falling behind.”

“They’re following their hearts,” Dee said.

“They’re a bunch of fanatics, and they need more bases. They haven’t reached critical mass,” Ling said.

“After starting on a small island, and not having sea going ability, they are doing as well as we might have in their position,” Dee said. “We’ve been fortunate, and shouldn’t take our good fortune to mean intellectual, spiritual, or philosophical superiority.”

“We’re only reaping the benefits of our decisions of 50 year ago. We’re not geniuses, but we made better decisions than the other factions have. Look at the other factions. Yang is at war with almost everyone, and has only a few pathetic bases that are crippled by supporting a huge army of obsolete military unit. Lal is spread all over the place, willy nilly, and he will have no way to defend himself. Zak didn’t expand at all for 50 years when he could have, and by the time he reached us it was too late since we had a claim on the territory. Aki’s perfect society is too small, and like the Cult does not have critical mass. Who’s fault is this? Ours? No, it is theirs. They need to see their faults, and then fix them.” Ling stopped her monologue and to see if there would be any response.

There was none.

Terry intervened. “The next item on the agenda: A proposed switch from a Green to a Planned economy from the expansionist wing of the Parliament. Their proposal is on page three of today’s meeting agenda…”

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2188

The newly appointed governing committee of Hope of the Planet sat at the table and listened to the Prophet.

" I can not stress enough that once you disembark you will need to set-up your colony as quickly as possible. Two terra-formers have already prepared a rich site for you so resources will be waiting for you. You have only one task and that is to serve as a jumping off point for new colonies. Your base will be the foundry at which we will build all new colony pods on the new land. Protection is also taken care of since there are three worms and a spore launcher already there. The colony will also have a sensor system waiting to be linked with your equipment as well. Once again, growth is your goal, nothing else! You will build a children's crèche' almost immediately and then concentrate on colony pods! I need bases on the new land. You will set-up five new bases in all. Two will be in the crater and three on the land to the north, including yourselves. More expansion will occur to our south, in time. Do not fail me. Upon landing and establishing your base you will be contacted by a women name Eve. She is my personal
representative over there. If she gives you a command consider as if it were spoken from my mouth!! I can not be more clear on this. I wish you luck and good fortune. May the all powerful blessings of Planet sustain you and keep you all through your days." Cha placed his hands on each of them and then left the room.

The three women all looked at each and winced slightly. What had been asked of them was a challenge indeed. They were the first all women command committee ever and now they were entrusted in populating an entire continent.

"Well, what do you think Jolene?" Asked the Ranger committee member whose name was Rose.

"Everything is ready. The colony pod and colonists will load up next turn and the transport commander has promised a quick passage across the channel, two turns at most. One turn to disembark and then we can get things moving. Not bad. I have communicated with our security forces there. They have assigned a boil size spore launcher to maintain security for us and a another worm is returning as well. I suspect that they will have us commit our ship born supplies to building the crèche first instead of a Ranger garrison, we will have native forces for awhile." Jolene responded.

"Excellent work. I take it that once we are up and running the terra-former crews will fall under your care, correct?" Rose asked the remaining council member.

"Yes," Jill answered. "In time we will assume control and support duties as well. I am not sure as to how soon but I suspect that the bases here will not want to continue that support since the crews are not even helping them anymore."

"Well, lets get everything wrapped up and our next meeting will be right before launch!" Rose stated as she collected her papers and walked out of the room with the other members.

[Hydro]

Hivean Sea, MY 2189

“Sir, we’ve completed our scans. As far as we can tell the anomalies in the sea outside of The Hive are Unity pods, and we won’t know anything more specific until we get within detection range of the pod’s proximity system. There is a 30% chance that the variances in the anomaly are a feature unique to Planet, but we know that it is composed of refined metal and, as far as we know, that can only come with the landing.”

Sensitive L’Har nodded to accept this report, and he had come to a similar conclusion. He turned to Gaian Council Liaison Maywood. “Does the Council have any direction for me at this point? Our original charter was to proceed with all due caution, and then to investigate the apparent Unity pods we found in the survey.”

“Yes, yes. Of course! I’ve been waiting for this for years, and I see no reason to delay. Are we ready to proceed?” he asked.

“We are,” L’Har said. Then he closed his eyes and his face went slightly blank. Maywood felt the familiar wash of static fields that folded over the isle of the deep whenever it was underway, and particularly when it started its movement. At that time the difference was stark. After several days he found he stopped noticing his fly-away hair and the tingling in his extremities. As odd at it might sound, it felt normal.

Harold Maywood paced up to the amorphous edge of the isle and peered to the west, hoping for a look at the pod, even though he knew it was too far away. Finally, he thought, we’ll get to explore this pod! It’s been almost 90 years since Unity fell, and these may be some of our last links from Earth. It could be anything, literally anything!

The pace of the isle picked up and stiff wind washed over the isle. Harold leaned forward slightly to fight the breeze as he stood on what passed for the bow of the isle. The tangy air, unique to the fungus-filled seas, filled the air and made the wind seem crisp. The pleasure of the moment did not distract from his excitement. He could hardly wait.

+*+*+*+*+

“Sir, we are within 10 klicks. The anomalies are up to 87%, and the pings suggest the refined metals are not Unity standard; there is too many exotics, some of which we can’t resolve, and the organic content is more like an encrustation. And our flyeye just sent back pictures. Key in sequence 16,” information technician Busche said as he handed his datapad to Sensitive H’Lar.

H’Lar took the pad and activated the entire condensed sequence of images of the ‘Unity’ pod. It took several minutes, and as the moments passed his eyebrows went up involuntarily. He reached sequence 16 and said,” It looks like the fungus has formed a shroud around the magnetic anomaly, entirely covering it surface.” The tech nodded. H’Lar asked, “Is anything of the surface visible?”

“No, sir,” the technician said. “Only the fungus, which seems to be similar to the isle in structure and size. We can’t know more until we directly investigate.”

“Very well. We will do so.”

Later the man-made out boats were lowered into the fungus-laden part of the sea, and crews of 10 in each of three boats skimmed toward the anomaly. The last boat towed a variable inflatable skiff that could be somewhat customized to accommodate what might be found.

H’Lar was impassive, but Harold could barely contain his excitement. He fidgeted and paced, waiting for news now that it was clear that this was not a Unity pod at all, but possibly much more. He didn’t need to wait long.

A direct feed showed what they saw, and there was a slight babble of background noise of voices shouting orders, directing activities, or responding to tasks. The stationary mound did not bob in the water and it seemed to heave up and down as the swells rose and fell. It was also clear that there were times when the water levels had marked the sides of the worm-isle, and there were many weathered benches showing erosion and staining when the seas had been higher. At this point a cliff that was 15 meters high rose out of the water, and above that the isle-like island curved sharply to form an irregular low dome. Along semi-regular intervals there were erosional channels which directed runoff off the top of the mound. All along the sides and on some are of the dome there was evidence of worm repair, showing bright pink against the weathered gray and stained black and green along its sides.

One by one the boats moored, anchoring themselves on irregular nodules that formed the surface of the mound. Up close it looked like there were numerous small caves and ledges, some of which could be passable if care were taken. The lead boat made for one that looked like a beach and had a gentle rolling surf rolling in, and the other three held back to observe. Nothing untoward occurred as the boat approached, and they finally committed and rode a curl onto the beach. As the curl collapsed and started to ebb two crew members jumped out and drew the boat further up the beach with a stout pull. Then the team leader reported in: “Team one landed. Initial observation is that the structure is composed of sea worm chrysalises, as the isle. Wave action has reduced much of this to sand here that has a pinkish gray hue. No evidence of life upon initial inspection. Proceeding up the beach. There are several alcoves here, which we will investigate in four teams of two with two manning the boat. Activating team holo recorders, which will be transmitted directly to home base.”

The holo views came in showing a quad of beach views, with a few teams starting toward alcoves and caves. Most proved to be shallow, little more than overhangs undercut by ages of wave action. Others were deeper caves, or eroded crevices. Team Two used pinions and clamps and started climbing the sea wall, aiming toward a depression near the start of the dome. Team One and Four started along the sea and beach side, maneuvering across steep cliffs and sea benches that dominated the boundaries of the mound. As they went on their way Team Three traversed a deep erosional gully that had a rather gentle slope, considering the circumstances.

Team Two made slow progress, and as they reached the apex of the sea wall they were rewarded by seeing something they had not noticed on the mound before: a smooth surface. The team leader Mara Flains focused his holo downward and zoomed in, showing a polished ivory and pink colored slightly iridescent surface. Her hand reached out, and the view showed her gloved hand touching the smooth material. She commented, “It feels warm to the touch, and it tingles. There is very little resistance.” Her holo view panned upward to show the oval-shaped expanse. “It is appears there is no debris on this surface, not even dust. Proceeding on to the depression toward the apex of the mound. My partner Hollis is staying behind to vid my progress.”

The holo wobbled. “Surface slick. Pausing to apply tack strips to my boots. Moving toward the depression at the middle of the surface.” She panned upward as she took steady, slow steps. “Skin tingling sensation increasing as I get near the depression. Nearing the edge now, looking down.” It was dark in the depression and only shadows were visible showing a few nearer rounded features and blackness behind. As she roved the view back and forth the shadows faded, then disappeared. “It looks like there is some generalized illumination, no apparent source. This appears to be a tunnel. Proceeding down the ramp. Actuating high-density data feed.”

As she descended the curving ramp she looked to each side, and it appeared that the illumination came from an interlocking voids in the chrysalis matrix. At the end of the ramp was an oval shaped depression in the smoothly sloped floor. “It looks like an iris valve,” she said as the holo view showed her hand reaching out to touch the interlocking curves that radiated out from a central point. “It seems to be made of the same material, and it is also warm to the touch. The tingling feeling seems to be stronger here, and I must say it is not unpleasant. I also sense a slight humming, and I don’t know you can hear it, and it kind of sounds like a multi-note series of chords. I really can’t describe it if it isn’t coming over the data feed. Maybe a ringing?”

There was a slight pause. “Wait!” she said, “something’s happening! The ringing is increasing, and the iris valve is moving. I’m stepping back so you can see.” The holo image jerked as she stood up and moved away, and then looked down at the floor. After a fraction of a second the valve seemed to flex outward and it trembled. A brief flash of light played across the portion of the valve that Mara had touched, pulsing from a deep red to a light pink. The light migrated from the outer portion of the valve to the center. As it did so the area of view increased as Mara stepped back and away from the flexing iris.

“My god! Look at that!” she said. The iris valve puckered, and the petals folded inward in a slow, fluid motion. As the portal pealed into itself more diffuse light poured outward.

“Motion has stopped. Moving forward,” she said. “Looking into the portal.”

There was silence from Mara and, for a while, the holo only showed a bright light.

“It’s beautiful,” she said, and then paused again.

The light became brighter. “I’m going in.”

Light increased in the holo, filling every image. Mara’s bio tell-tails spiked upward from their already peak levels, and her cortex stimulation index reached a apex.

A second later the holo and the data feed ceased. All the transfixed viewers held their breath, and waited.

*+*+*+*

“Is Mara OK?” Harold asked.

“Oh, yes,” L’Har said. “She checked out fine, and she apologized profusely for her long absence when the rescue team found her. According to her instruments she was still transmitting, and she had an internal log of all her actions. You can view them if you like, and I suggest the Council gives them a thorough review. Discretion is appropriate, of course, and they will have to advise the Parliament on the disposition of the record. But, there is one thing you should know. Follow me.”

Sensative H’Lar turned and ambled down a path cut into the isle’s rough and irregular surface. It served as an informal footpath from the forward observation station to the habitation modules carved out of the bulk of the isle. Harold followed right behind him, nearly stepping on his heels as H’Lar ambled down the path. A pair of guards were stationed at around a deeply set door, and the two straightened at his approach. They seemed to know Harold, and one of the guards stepped to the door and open it. It was dark inside.

“We keep the light low,” H’Lar said as he walked into the room. “Look to your right.” Harold turned to his right and looked straight ahead. “Do you see anything?”

“No, I…” he started. “Wait. What is that glow? And that hum?”

An object formed in Harold’s mind’s eye. It was almost ethereal, and its indistinct edges showed an form that was about a meter tall and three quarters of a meter at its base and roughly cylindrical.

“What is it?” Harold asked.

“We don’t know” H’Lar said. “Every person who sees it sees something slightly different. It is clear it is not of human manufacture. What you re seeing is an alien artifact, and now our lives will never be the same.”

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2189

To the most gracious Lady Skye, the noble Gaian leadership and the Planet loving Gaian people,

It has come to my attention that perhaps your people have decided to turn away from the path of the Planet. News reports indicated that your leadership and people wish to switch to more industrial/expansionist economic policy. I do hope that this is not the case. Such a change would
result in severe consequences. Planet would consider this a betrayal as we would as well. We had hoped that you would have seen the tremendous benefits of a "green" or "Planet friendly" economic model. I hope that your people will re-consider any such change and continue with the only proper choice for a person or people that have sworn to leave in harmony with their surroundings. Perhaps I could address your Parliament and plead my case for maintaining your current status in order to live in harmony with Planet? I hope I am not too late to make this request on behalf of Planet. If I am then I fear the People of the Planet must re-assess our diplomatic stance towards you and your people. If you can so casually throw away your commitment to the Planet then how can we expect a people like that to stand by us? Surely you can see our point of view. We gifted you technology in order for you and your people to prosper without the need for heavy industrialization and now it seems you still wish to proceed down that path. I hope that this is not the case and that in time and with the proper amount of reflection the only responsible choice for you and your people to make is to stay green, live green and to love Planet with all of your hearts!

I have good news to report! Our sixth colony pod will land next turn on the new colony site on the continent to our northeast. Our plan is that within the next decade we will expand and add three new colonies to our territory bringing our total to nine cities of the Planet. We understand that our society is far smaller than yours but our commitment to Planet guides us and does limit us in all things. Our planners hope to double the amount of new colonies in the following decade to six if all things go well and that would include expanding our holdings to the south. Every indication leads us to believe that just to our south a large land mass is available for expansion and that it has a large mountain chain that should be wondrous to see.

Lastly, we have not had much contact with any of the other factions with the exception of Col. Santiago. It seems her people though war-like seem to understand the need to live in harmony with the Planet. I hope in time we can build a new alliance with them and teach them the way of the Planet.

May Planet shine on your good people and give them the peace of mind that transcends all worldly desires!

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn

First Disciple of the Planet. He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2190

Dear Cha Dawn,

I can understand your concern over a possible change from a Green to a Planned economy. You must have gotten a hold of the official Council transcripts from almost two years ago, and I think I understand your possible confusion. Our Democratic government uses the Council as an advisory group to the Parliament, and any significant economic, diplomatic or military decision is required to be routed for us prior to consideration. There are over 15 political fractious political groups in our Parliament, and the two strongest are the Progressives, which favor industrial and economic expansion, and the Greens, which advocate a Planet friendly economic model above all else. These groups are pretty evenly divided, and the Greens are currently able to hold a coalition of smaller groups to control the legislative branch. The proposal you found was an attempt by the Progressives to bypass impediments by the Greens to change to a Planned economy. The Council considered it, and then recommended to the Parliament that we continue with a Green economy. At this point it is clear that a Green economy makes more sense, and it is in better keeping with the underpinnings of our society. Personally, I favor a Green economy and there are few circumstances that would warrant a change. Other members of the Council are more aligned toward the Progressives, and most are likely to be persuaded by circumstances.

One of the primary benefits of a Green economy is the greater harmony and empathy it has given us in understanding Planet and its denizens. We have had considerable success in allying ourselves with native life forms, and we currently have four mindworms, a spoor launcher, and five isles of the deep that have allied themselves to us. This alone shows the superior nature of the Green economy, and I can see little reason to change from this orientation. We also recently found an ancient artifact in the fungus outside of Hive territory. It must be hundreds of thousands of years old, and perhaps it is older. One of our isles is bringing this wonder back to our territory. This same isle also found a Unity rover in a nearby Unity pod that was in the sea east of Hive territory. It will take considerable time for the isle to make it back to our lands, and when it is done it will have to return to investigate the third and last Unity pod. These are great prizes due to their rarity, and it is likely it may not be there when we return in six or more years hence.

The Council appreciates the generosity of you and your Society, and it is becoming clearer that we have more similar goals with each passing year. I am disappointed that my former colleagues from Unity have proven to be so hostile to friendly relations, and that others have chosen to create repellent societies, like that of the Hive. It is the Council’s wish that we do what we can to create harmony on Planet, and I support you in your evident wish to do likewise.

Your friend,
Dee

[Hydro]

Cult, MY 2190

To the most revered Lady Deirdre Skye, the most right honorable members of the Gaian government and their Planet loving peoples, Greetings!

It was very good to hear that the rumors and vid-channel news was not correct and you have decided to remain as child of the Planet, living in harmony with the wonderful spirit of Planet!

I was both amazed and very curious of the discovery you have made. It only confirms what we People of the Planet have known for a long time that there were other inhabitants on Planet millions of years ago. I am including some research by a very prominent scientist that might be of use to you and your team of researchers. There are many "clues" left behind by the "old ones" as we have come to call them that indicate they had a great harmony, empathy and respect for Planet. Perhaps some of the information in the relic will give us more insight to who they were. I do understand that it was your discovery but it is obvious to all that such a discovery should be shared by all of us. I do hope that you will at least share with us!

We have at last encountered an isle of the deep! But alas our empath foil is exactly in the wrong place, on the opposite side of our islands. Some of our researchers think that the isles perhaps conserve a vast amount of energy by floating on the natural currents of the seas and that they travel around Planet in accordance with some schedule, much like the whales on earth did. Our hope is that soon we will see more. We have an abundance of native "land" life forms who have joined with us , over six worms and two spore launchers! But still no isles. This does create some distress since we are eager to merge with such a powerful creature and learn more about Planet!

Due to the arrival of the isle of the deep our transport had to make a detour and did not land in the exact spot as we had planned. It did discharge the colony pod and it will arrive next turn and then begin operations the following turn. This is a slight set-back but it can not be helped. We are beginning to seed the seas of Planet with kelp beds and we will soon begin to harvest a huge bounty from her that will once again begin a "natural" population expansion by our people.

It does seem that our new northern territory is not "attached" to the landmass to the west that the University occupies. The lack of sea transport by the University has allowed us to claim first rights to this very wonderful piece of land. It also explains why the Professor has been so very eager to try and get us to "gift" him sea technology, but, we have refused since he does not want to exchange with us. We have decided to help some of the other factions, namely the Spartans, by trading them technology to give them the tools to harvest some of the fruits of Planet. Our hope is that they will learn that by trusting and living in harmony with Planet they will benefit and thus become a friend of Planet!

Once again I wish to thank you and your wise advisor council on seeing the merits and fruit of remaining a friend of Planet. If there is anything we People of the Planet can assist you in, please call upon us.

May Planet shine on your good people and give them the peace of mind that transcends all worldly desires! May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn First Disciple of the Planet
He who walks in the soul of the Planet

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2191

Dear Cha Dawn,

Although I don’t know where you are I think I can help clarify the disposition of various peoples somewhat, and to this end I have attached the Gaian world map. The University holds territory that is nowhere near the apparently undeveloped lands to their south. South of us are the Spartans, and it is possible that they are proximate to the lands you want to settle. If I could give you more information I would, but we are somewhat resource limited.

One of our isles captured yet another isle. To date we have had few negative encounters with isles, and that leads me to question whether most of them are pre-disposed toward humans? We know from hard experience that most of the mindworms and spoor launchers we encounter are hostile to us and only a limited number of links have been formed. In fact, I suspect that our spoor launcher will be killed by rogue launcher she stirred out of the fungus on a continent to the east of us. This launcher and a mindworm are trapped by two hostiles, and I hope that they pull through.

I have no new news about the artifact, but I will keep you informed on what we learn from it. It does seem to be a very advanced piece of machinery, and some of our sensitives claim they feel a sentient emanation from the device. At this point I don’t know what to believe, but this in combination with a strange monolith we have seen suggests there was an alien civilization on Planet at one point in the past. With research we should uncover some of the truth, but will we ever know the full story? That is hard to tell.

Walk with Planet,
Dee

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2191

Cha looked at the map and rubbed his eyes again in disbelief. The cult had been trying to look for the Hive for decades and there they were right next door to the crater area! All of his advisors were bent over the map, taking in the newest details.

"My Prophet, based on this information I will order two worms to the eastern flanks of the crater area at once to protect against any Hive invasion!" Shari Moon remarked as she moved two flags on the map to the eastern shore line of the crater continent.

"I agree with your move Master Guide. Master Caretaker you will need to build a road as soon as you can get your terra-formers ready and begin building a road to the crater at once! Ranger One, priority MUST be given to colony pods at ALL COSTS!. The core cities will not be able to produce another colony pod for at least another 10 turns at best so it is up to you!" Cha stared at Ivan with a fierce determination.

"I agree my Prophet, your will be done!" Ivan responded.

"My friends, we are in a race now more than ever. We must build a bulwark in the east to shield the core cities. This will force our enemies to seek less costly ground. I would think that once the University and Hive do gain ship technology they will only have two choices, north or south. To move eastward puts them up against the Gaians and west they run into us. No, neither one of these factions are idiots they will seek the path of least resistance. We should also begin preparations to expand to this area in the south. I have always been intrigued by the mountain range their so lets make that our next priority. Soon three land masses will be under our control. Should anyone one of them fall the other two can continue the struggle. We must turn our "perceived" weakness into our ally, agreed?" Cha asked as he looked around the room.

All of the council members nodded in agreement.

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2192

“I think we should do it,” Colin said. “Dee has brokered a peace between the Cyborgs and the Peacekeepers, and between the Cyborgs and the University. I think we could do some good. All we have to do is convince a majority of the other factions that Dee should be the leader of the other factions. Then we can help the other factions live in peace, and we can help them. Maybe even the Hive, and help Yang see that a police state is wrong. And convince Lal that his antipathy toward us is unwarranted.”

“But what if the election fails. Pravin Lal is likely to be elected if Dee isn’t, and he has shown us ill will since we first contacted him,” Terry said. “Then we could be in the situation where Lal could use the office of Governor to make our life unpleasant, and try to foist his goals onto other factions. We could be in trouble.”

“What could he do to us?” Ling asked. “Trade sanctions? We don’t have any significant trade since our economy is so primitive, and it is so hard to establish trade routes over the seas. Could he form some UN-style army or navy to take over our ports, or invade us? Somehow I don’t think so, at least not for a while, anyway.” Ling sat back in her chair. “I don’t see how it make much difference either way. It sounds like an ineffective office, ceremonial or an honorific.”

Colin jumped in. “Right, but Dee can set the tone for the future when trade and warfare might be an option. We can’t let the opportunity slip away!”

Terry turned to Dee. “What do you think?”

Dee hesitated. “I’ll do it if the Council agrees unanimously.”

“Very well. I call for a vote on the proposal to call a Planetary Council and nominate Deirdre Skye for Planetary Governor,” Terry said.

Colin gave it a quick second.

The vote was unanimous, except for Dee who abstained.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2192

Lady Skye and the Gaian High Council,

Gaian Operatives have approached my councilors asking for their help to sway my support for your attempt to become Planetary Governor. I have listened to them and I will be blunt with my answer. The people of the Planet do not wish to be involved in any planetary government. We have always gone our own way and seek a greater path to enlighten. If this is your wish and the wish of your people to embroil yourselves in the petty concerns of the other factions you are most welcome. In fact, we will support your advancement toit given the following conditions. One, that you will use your power to preserve planet and protect her. Second, that your government will transfer to us some useful technology as compensation for our support. These are our only conditions. My intelligence staff informs me that you have brokered several peace treaties between the factions at war. I applaud your efforts and if this is how you wish to fill your hours then it is your time to fill. I do wish to make one point clear. The Cult of the Planet are the protectors of this world. We will strike down all those who will plunder its resources and turn it into a wasteland. We will comply with all "civilized" laws of warfare but we do not feel restricted to the UN charter. As much as Pravin calls me to remind me of all the terms and conditions therein I will not let some piece of paper come between our need to protect Planet from those who wish to do her harm. With that being said we would never pursue any weapon that would bring harm to Planet. I hope that we can come to some agreement on this and I think our terms are more than reasonable. I read once that the best government is no government. Obviously that is not the case now but if we have to have a Planetary government let it be at least a minimal government.

We have established our seventh colony and with the vast stores of nutrients at our new colony we should be able to build and man a colony pod every ten turns! This is a great achievement for us and it will make our colonization efforts of the new mainland easier to say the least. We still have had no luck in finding any sea worms and this is most distressing as each turn goes on. We search the fungal seas but find nothing.

I have also seen for the first time reports on the Hive. What a horrible place. They drill into Planet to carve out their homes and vent their waste and debris with little regard to the impact it has. I have to be blunt that as long as the Hive keep their disgusting ways to themselves on their little island we will tolerate it for now. However, any expansion by them especially to the west, our east, will result in swift action on our part.

I wish you the best of luck on your new job!

May Planet shine on your good people and give them the peace of mind that
transcends all worldly desires!

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn

First Disciple of the Planet. He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2193

Dear Cha Dawn,

The Council agrees with your terms. We should have a breakthrough in Ecological Engineering in about nine years, and we will happily give this to you. I can assure you that the vast majority of the Gaians have Planet’s best interests at heart. Some of us viewed, first hand, the degradation and destruction of Earth and we will not let that happen again. Ever.

I am happy to announce that we have just founded Gaia’s High Garden north of Gaia’s Landing. It is a very promising site, and the city is located on a nutrient lode that will provide Planet’s bounty. Two more cities are almost ready north and northwest of this location. We are not in a huge hurry to establish these new cities since we are focusing on infrastructure. The Gaian research station Razorback Wood is doing well, too, and you should know that the chlorophyll-based plant life there proves that a sort of parallel evolution occurred here on Planet, although it is not at all clear why this vegetation is limited to such a single area. Continuing research here has eased our fears that introducing Earth-based chlorophyll plants would be too much of a shock for Planet. Eventually I hope to use this information to find out the extent to which we can have these types of organisms live in harmony as a single ecology. I believe the Monsoon Jungle will provide the needed insight to give us the answer to this and the many other crucial questions we have about Planet.

Walk with Planet,
Dee

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2193

To the respected Planetary Governor Lady Deirdre Skye, the honorable Gaian Parliament and the Planet loving Gaian people my most heartfelt congratulations,

It seems your election was closer than you had anticipated I think. It is fortunate that once again the path of the Planet guides us in our actions. I can assure you that Pravin Lal lobbied hard and long for my votes and promised me many things but I refused his offers and supported you. It really was not too much of a choice since Planet commanded me to vote for you since you and your people live and work in harmony with the Planet, her loyal allies! I was contacted again by Lal trying to secure a "pact" before the vote and perhaps he thought he might "grease my wheels" as the saying goes but I was able to obtain some very interesting technology from him. However, it seems that the University was able to exploit it and complete the citizens defense force first. Be that as it may it did give us some interesting files on building an internal police and improving morale of troops. I am sure he is very angry with himself for failing to secure my vote.

What troubles me now is the realization of an alliance between the Cyborgs and the Peacekeepers. This new axis of power threatens you more than me and from the communications I got from the other faction leaders it does them as well. All of them, except for you and me, wanted to form a military alliance to destroy the Peacekeepers and Cyborgs. In time I hope that whatever mis-understandings exist are smoothed over by your Planetary administrators but if Lal is able to convince the Cyborgs to join his cause he might be able to convince others, such as the Spartans or the University.

The day has been a long one and I am very tired. I hope you excuse my brief message but I do wish again to congratulate you on your new role. We do expect that in time you will have the opportunity to repay those who have supported your cause.

May Planet shine on your good people and give them the peace of mind that transcends all worldly desires!

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn First Disciple of the Planet.
He who walks in the soul of the Planet

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2194

Cha Dawn and the people of Cult of Planet,

I want to personally thank you for your support in the elections for Planetary Governor. The vote was very close, and I was surprised that Aki, a long-time Gaian ally, voted for Lal after she had declared war on him a decade ago, and especially since I helped broker a peace with them recently. I have to admit that Aki is a mystery to me since she declared war on Zak too, and she seems to have quite an emotional streak for a dispassionate passive Cyborg. I wasn’t surprised that Yang abstained since he has expressed his contempt for us and I believe he is at war with the Peacekeepers. We have had peace treaties with both the University and Spartans for a long time and I had hoped that would lead them to support the Gaians, but that was not to be the case: they abstained, too. In the end I was two votes shy, and your votes effectively elected me Governor.

I contacted Zak this last year to see if he would be willing to trade technology, and he did trade Intellectual Integrity for Gene Splicing. I also gave him Centauri Empathy in the hope that he would use this technology to become more friendly to Planet. He hasn’t shown any evidence of being hostile to Planet, merely indifferent. A few years ago I also gifted Centauri Empathy to the Cyborgs, and I have to admit I had the same hope in mind. During my call Zak asked me to launch a surprise attack against the Peacekeepers, and of course I declined. It seems that every faction we contact asks for us to declare war on some other faction, offering a Pact in exchange. This sounds similar to the description you have given me in your experiences and I can understand why this gives you concern.

At this point, as Planetary Governor, it is my duty to intervene to broker peace where I can. I would appreciate it if you could inform me if you find out about a war that has broken out, or if there are some other subterfuge that might lead to war. So far Aki has proven amenable to a truce when I have asked and it is possible that the same might be possible for other situations, too. Your idea to use this office to ensure that Planet is being respected and protected is a good one, and I will incorporate that into my unofficial duties and will inform you when I find situations that suggest that Planet is being harmed.

Thank you again for your support, and if there is anything I can do to aid your efforts to understand and protect Planet please let me know.

Your friend,
Dee

[Hydro]

Cult, MY 2194

The council meetings had become less formal over time to the point that they no longer even met in the council chamber but rather Cha's living space. However, this meeting was different. It was still in Cha's personal quarters but they had begun in the morning and it was nearly 8:00 in the
evening and they were still working. The primary reason for the difference was Cha himself. Cha had informed everyone that this meeting was to be a strategy session, plans were to be set into motion that could change the future of the people of the Planet.

"My Prophet, this plan of transferring the last two terra-former crews to the unexplored lands to the south is risky." The Master Caretaker had been complaining about this all day and now was the time for decision. "Surely you can see that by sending the crews without a worm for protection puts them in grave danger."

"This is not the time for being careful!" Cha roared at him. Cha quickly regained his composure and continued, " Master Caretaker, we will transfer a worm as soon as we can but for now the transport is there, ready to go. Your terra-former crews are there, ready to go. Would you have us strip the mainland defenses further by sending a worm first then the terra-formers. No, the terra-formers will go first, the transport will return and pick-up a colony pod and a worm at that time! When the transport returns to the new lands a sensor array should be up and running along with other improvements."

"My Prophet, I still have worries. But, I will have to trust in your judgment." Lance sat back in his chair. He knew he was done for now and that was all there was to say. They had talked for hours trying to come up with an alternate proposal but Cha would hear nothing of it.

"Ranger One, I have your word and promise that a colony pod will leave Hope of the Planet within the next five turns, correct?" Cha asked Ivan.

"Yes, my Prophet. My only concern is that the colony pod will leave and the terra-former crews will only be a turn or so ahead of them. It will be race to see who arrives first at the crater. The plan is to have the pod set-up operations on the nutrient lode on the northern side of the crater and when the second pod is ready it will set-up on the south side. We will have two colonies operating in the crater." Ivan stated as he gathered up his papers.

"Excellent. I think this concludes our business." Cha stood up and the others began to file out. After a few minutes a panel opened up and the Master Seeker stepped in.

"I am glad that I no longer have to attend those meetings." The Master Seeker said as he walked to the table and sat down. " Have you considered my plan yet?"

"Yes, I have and I agree. Once we are able to collect enough forces and most importantly several isles of the deep we attack the Hive and eliminate them before they strike at us. The Hive will be ill-equipped to defend themselves against an army of native forces and their defenses are only good against conventional weapons. Once we gain control of the Hive's territory we can rebuild their society and fill in those damn holes!" Cha turned and slowly walked to the map on the wall. He stretched out his arm and placed his hand on the island the Hive claimed. "In a short and very quick campaign we can double our size and seize more resources than we could imagine! They are the weakest faction on Planet and yet they do the most harm to her."

"What of the Governor?" The Master seeker asked as he pulled his black robe around him tighter.

"The Gaians will not intercede, of that I am convinced. They have no reason to support such a regime and if we move quickly enough it will be a moot question. They are children of Planet, though I sometimes wish I had a few more of my temples in place over there and of course my Rangers to help them to see the right path." Cha moved his hand off of the map and turned about.
"If we can assemble at least five powerful worms and a few spore launchers the Hive will be crushed very quickly, of that I am convinced. They are the only forces we have that can operate far from support and still maintain full combat readiness. Shari Moon will not like the plan but she will obey, as will the Hive."

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2195

“I vote no. There is no need to switch to a Planned economy.” Colin turned to Terry. “Must we have this on every agenda? This gets so tiresome, and the arguments don’t change.”

“Our charter is to consider the proposals from any party that gains more than 30% of the votes in Parliament, and the Progressives have consistently get over 35%. They are insistent that we will benefit from a short period of a Planned economy, and will benefit from a feature they call a ‘population boom’. The simulations I have seen show they are correct, but that this will only occur with the stabilizing influence of bases with a children’s crèche and if we have the benefits of a democratic government.”

“Yes, yes. I know all this, “ Colin said as he waved off Terry. “But they only include economic stability, not social stability. Such rapid growth will severely strain our cities above 50,000 people, and we will be forced to take emergency measures to ward off chaos. The University cities Gagarin Memorial and Mandelev College were in riots for almost a decade, and Zak couldn’t build appropriate infrastructure to fix this problem because of this chaos. Catch 22.”

“This hardly seems to be an issue since we can prepare,” Terry said. “If you review the proposal there are measures we can take. For instance, the Progressives have proposed that our garrisons be upgraded to have non-letal methods to keep the peace, and that hologram theatres be built where growth will be significant. We are building a hologram theatre right now here at Landing, and a couple Virgin Soil is also building one.”

Dee stepped into the fray. “We have crèches at only two bases, so at this point I see very little benefit to this proposal since this boom will occur at only a few stations. I am also less impressed with the argument that it will enhance our industrial production by 10%. And then there is the benefits our society gains from a Green economic structure, not the least of which are a greater empathy with Planet. We have captured six mindworms and isles, and one launcher. We also have a better chance against rogue worms, when they are encountered. This cannot be undervalued, and the Progressives do not touch on this important point. I propose we send a formal response to the Parliament that they not give us a future proposal to switch until the fundamental conditions change since this wastes the Council’s time.”

“Here, here!” Colin exclaimed.

“We have a proposal, and what I assume is a second from Colin. Vote called.”

Terry collected the voice votes, and Dee’s motion carried unanimously. Even Terry voted for it.

“The next item on our agenda is our research rate, which has spiked considerably. Our next breakthrough is likely to occur in five years, and we need to consider what we will recommend to the Parliament on what our next research goal will be…”

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2195

The Master seeker sat in his tiny command room and looked at the computer screen. It had taken decades but he had at last penetrated the inner sanctum of most of the other factions command councils and now he had an agent in the Gaian council. He was a secret believer in the new faith and was green, a friend of the Planet and now an agent of the Cult. Right now he barely suspected that he was an agent since much of the information he forwarded was through conversations between other cult members and him. The Master Seeker eased himself back into his chair and tapped his finger on the table. Yes, he would have to be careful. Gaian empaths were formidable indeed and for now he did not want this operative to know the extent of the role he played. The man had a brilliant mind but doubtless he lacked the mental discipline to shield his mind. For now he thought he was aiding his society by championing the cause of the Planet, that was all he needed to know for now. Doubtless if he were ever discovered or if Gaian security knew what information was being leaked to the Cult he would loose his freedom but he had been careful and had kept contacts and agents screened and protected. Gaian society was open, free and easy to penetrate and easier for the Cult being a treaty member and friend. Hundreds of Gaians had chosen the new faith and when Cha would call them they would become loyal operatives to the cause. The Master Seeker took a few minutes to send a report to Cha about the continued attempts to switch to a more industrial society by the Gaians which would cause Cha to rant for several hours. Now, for other matters....


*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2196

Dee worked to compose herself, brushing a few errant strands of hair that hung in wet ringlets around her face. Lal had chosen to call in the middle of her exercise routine, but he called so infrequently that Dee was not about to refuse him or ask him to call back later.

She switched on the holo channel. Pravin Lal looked as prim as ever in his soft light gray suit. In back of him was a wall-size gilded emblem of the old United Nations. Lal sat in front of the emblem at a huge carved wooden desk, the top of which was covered in a green felt protector and a few well placed and tasteful ornaments. The effect was both rich and ordered, and it had been this way ever since Dee had first contacted him after the Empath Guild was effected.

“Greetings Governor,” he said. His voice conveyed a practiced warmth, but to Dee his deep brown eyes were cold and penetrating. “I trust you are doing well? Are you indisposed?”

“Oh, no,” she said. “I’m always happy to take your calls, and I look forward to them.” Dee returned the smile Lal wore, telling a little white lie. Lal’s calls were infrequent and the conversations were always contentious. “What can I do for you?”

Lal leaned forward. “I’m calling to discuss a matter of some importance. It seems our former colleague, the self-styled Chairman Yang, has been increasing in his paranoid fantasies and repression. His society is a nightmare that flies in the face of all human values, and he seeks nothing less than the subjugation of all of the remaining humanity under his iron fist. It is your duty as Governor to stop him. He has violated the letter and intent of the Charter and has resisted all entries of diplomacy. The only option left is military action. Chairman Yang must be stopped.”

“Well,” Dee said as she paused, buying time, “I agree that Yang’s police state is repugnant, but I don’t see how he is a threat to anyone. His holdings are small, the smallest of any faction, but well defended. His army is biased toward garrisons, and his technological progress is such that he isn’t likely to get anything better soon. Since he doesn’t have a navy, and since he won’t for some time, I don’t see how he is a threat to anyone.”

“You simply don’t understand,” Lal said, his outwardly polite demeanor slipping a little, ”his current abilities are irrelevant. It is his entire society that is a threat, as is his way of life. He must be stopped.”

“I’m afraid I don’t agree, Pravin,” Dee said. “Yang hasn’t threatened anyone, and as of yet I haven’t gotten confirmation of the source of the wars he is in with the University and the Cyborgs. He may be culpable in initiating these conflicts, but until the source of these wars in clear it is not prudent to act, at least not in a military way.”

“I see,” Lal said as he sat back. His manner was close to seething even if he remained his superficial layer of civility. “So you won’t act to protect the Charter, or humanity. I had hoped to convince you otherwise.”

Dee jumped in his slight pause. “Perhaps if evidenced mounts, or if his hostile intent is demonstrated.”

“The evidence exists, I assure you, and the Peacekeepers will work to demonstrate it to you,” Lal said. “But I have another matter to discuss. I have noticed that our societies have taken a route that promotes human equality. Due to this similarity my Congress has instructed me to offer you a Treaty of Friendship so that we can further expand peaceful engagement.”

Dee was nonplussed. Every entreaty she had made had made to the Peacekeepers for a treaty or technological trades had been summarily rejected. It was clear Lal didn’t like this, probably more so since he was denied his coveted position of Planetary Governor in the recent elections that had elected Dee to that position. His tone and mannerisms suggested he was reciting something given to him, and he probably was. Still, it was a Friendship Treaty.

Dee let a smile grow. “I’d be delighted to accept, Pravin. Our societies have so much in common and I think we can grow together, and learn to understand each other. I can only hope this will be the beginning of something greater.”

“Indeed,” Pravin said, his voice dry and flat. “That is my hope also. I trust you will convey this to your Council and Parliament?”

“There is no need. I have the authority to accept any Friendship Treaty, and I will inform them of your offer and our acceptance.”

“Then our business is complete. Please feel free to call anytime,” Lal said. His tone suggested otherwise.

“Thank you for the call, Pravin. Take care,” Dee said. Lal nodded in return and the holo ceased.

Dee felt a knot in her gut, the same knot she felt every time she had to talk to Lal. Why was he so hostile? What had the Gaians ever done to him?

The knot would remain for hours. Dee got up to continue her exercises in the hopes the effort might alleviate the discomfort, or at least provide a distraction. At least that was something.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2196

Cha was trembling with fear and apprehension as he continued to read the reports on his desk. Planet was angry. Planet was in pain. That could be the only explanation that fit. Dreams of the Planet, Hope of the Planet and his mind worm scouts in the crater area all attacked by land and sea rogue worms and sea serpents. All the bases had held and the mind worm scout in the crater as well but not since the initial days after landing on Planet had the native life forms been so active. Sea serpents boiling up from the sea! Reports had flooded command for days of sightings of possible worm sign giving Ivan and his Rangers little chance to sleep or even get a handle on the situation. The only positive part to this catastrophe was the fact the Cult had gained large amounts of energy reserves from the planet pearls but Cha would have preferred to capture those worms to strike at the true enemies to the Planet. The question that was on his mind is why would Planet raise her hand against her chosen children!? This was the mystery and the problem. What had he not seen or felt? He knew Planet was unhappy about the Hive and even some of the other factions who destroyed the flesh of Planet but why the people of the Planet, why were they being attacked? Cha sat there for hours, thinking about the entire solution and during that time he could only believe that Planet was punishing them for not acting quicker to remove her enemies! Cha entered the private encoded comm-link to his daughter.

"Eve, this is the Prophet, do you read me?" Cha waited for the response.

"Father, this is Eve. How can I help you?" Eve responded. Her voice seemed tired and out of sorts and that was when Cha realized it was in the deep hours of night that he had called.

"I am sorry for disturbing you my daughter but I have important work for you. You must capture more worms I need more worms, more than you can imagine! You must capture them and train them as quickly as possible. Do you understand." Cha waited for the response back.

"I do father. I do understand and we will do our best, I will not fail you." Eve seemed to have gotten her head clear at last.

"Good Eve, good. Expect to launch an attack when we can muster at least 6 to 7 worms and several spore launchers. You are half way there now so be quick about your work. I will have a transport ready for you when you have the worms. Prophet out."

Cha closed the link and slowly got up and looked out the window waiting for the dawn...

*!*!*!*

Southeastern Continent, MY 2197

Lindsay was finally happy. She had convinced the Council that decades of vigilance watching the University should be duly rewarded. True to form, they passed a resolution giving her a special honor, Metal of Planet, and a generous stipend for her retirement.

[1]Retirement??[/I] Is that what those butter ball gabbers thought she wanted?

Of course she summarily rejected their generous offer, and was gratified when most of the Council (except Ling, who looked bored) wanted to know what she wanted. She remembered blurting, “To explore! That’s what I always wanted to do, and I couldn’t. Let me explore!”

“Why yes, we can do that,” Colin said. “Where do you want to go?”

“East! There is a huge continent south of the Jungle, and there’s no one there! We need to get some worms and we can see what’s there! There’s still time, and imagine what we’ll find! All I need is a transport…”

“We’ll get an isle for you,” Dee said.

“…and I can take my worm with me! He’d love to go…”

“It can be ready in a week,” Colin added.

Lindsay looked over at them. “Please! I have to go!”

Terry, Colin, and Dee looked at each other, then at Lindsay. “We said yes.”

Lindsay paused. “Oh. Good.”

That little exchange had occurred over a decade ago, and ever since Lindsay’s brood had brown. It now included three worms and a spoor launcher, all of whom were almost fighting themselves over the fungus laden terrain to see what was there. Lindsay was there nexus, through their handlers, and every day was a joy, a revelation.

And now she had something even more important to report. She had found Unity! The edge of the crash site was just in range, and the engines were barely visible.

Wait till the Council heard!

[Hydro]

Cult, MY 2197

"Cha Dawn, I plan on making this offer only once. My aides gave you the outline of my treaty earlier in the day and I think you have had time to make a decision." Corazon said as she leaned forward in her chair which seemed to make her face expand in the viewer.

Cha had thought long and hard about he proposal and he had consulted with the Master Seeker and had already made up his mind before the expect call from Corazon. The Cult had avoided entangling treaties since landing on Planet. Their only treaty for some time had been with the Gaians but with the all of the other factions trying to forge pacts and build military alliances Cha had realized the need, no the absolute need to develop more allies. The only real choice as he saw it were the Spartans. Cha hated Zakharov. He did not understand the Cyborgs who were as alien as this Planet was to earth people. Lal was building a power base to tear the Governorship away from Deirdre. The Hive was hideous beyond measure and they were soon to face the wrath of the Planet for their defilement of Planet. No, the only allies other than the Gaians were the Spartans. Cha understood the Spartans and in time he hoped he could convince them of the need to maintain good relations with the Planet. They were also the perfect balance to the Peacekeepers/Cyborg alliance.

"I accept your proposal for a treaty of friendship Corazon. I think our alliance will serve both our people. I have also agreed to the transfer of the two technologies, for energy credits, as well. I think they will help your society to prosper and grow." Cha finished his reply with a gracious
smile.

"I care little for society Cha, only power. I think we both understand that. With your aid we can harvest more food to feed our soldiers and workers. I expect that trade between our people will also fill our coffers with credits which, in turn, I can use to build a more powerful army. I have grown suspicious of the Gaians growing might and I suspect that they are trying to dominate all of the other factions."

"Colonel, if your troops were face to face with the Gaians I suspect that they would run in fear. Though, they, like us, have a large cadre of native forces that for us serve as our army while the Gaians use them as a supplement. We will soon be able to breed our own worms in captivity to
add to our forces. You might find such an army, an army of mind worms more than you bargained for." Cha replied feeling very comfortable with the might of his native forces.

"Which is exactly why I wish to form an alliance with you. Your native forces combined with my elite human forces would make a potent combination, if needed, of course." Corazon said with a slight sly look to her face.

"I think you understand the situation clearly Colonel. I am up linking the technology files now and I wish you a good day. May Planet shine on you and give you Peace." Cha finished by waving his hand in a blessing.

"True peace is not gifted but is taken by force of arms, by securing your borders by having a strong military, Colonel Corazon Santiago, out!"

Cha watched the screen go blank and briefly thought that perhaps this treaty was not the best idea after all....

*!*!*!*

Dreams of Green, MY 2198

“And why are you building a crèche?” Council member Ling asked.

The current governor tried to hold his ground. “It was suggested by the Parliament, and approved by the Council.”

“It was not, I assure you,” Ling said as she paced around Governor Snelt, who stood still. “The proposal approved by the Council is that this base, with the only Command Center in Gaian lands, was to produce garrisons and impact speeders, and that these would be placed strategically around our lands, and eventually one would be sent to Razorback Wood in the Jungle.”

“I think you might be in error…” he started.

“No,” she said, her voice dripping with ice, “it is you who are in error. I don’t know who subverted the will of the Council, but I assure you I will find out, and when I do they will wish they were in one of Yang’s ‘re-education centers’. I think a very public inquiry of all those involved would be a good idea.”

Ling stopped right in front of Tim. “Don’t you?”

Governor Tim Snelt did not answer. Ling gave him a cold smile in return. “I expect you might be called to give some more answers to rather explicit questions. In the meantime I will make sure the Council gives Dreams of Green the resources to finish your crèche, and then you will ensure that Green continues to produce garrisons and speeders. Is that crystal clear Governor?”

“Yes, sir,” he said. As soon as he said it he realized the error of his mistake but didn’t dare to correct himself.

“Very good,” Ling said. “I will be personally attending to your progress, and the progress of other Gaian cities that are building Command Centers. Now, I have other matters to attend to. Good day, Governor.”

Snelt continued to stay at attention as Ling left the room, and his relief was palpable. He would have to tell his contacts of this immediately. Council member Ling was clearly a loose cannon, and this cannon needed its muzzle filled with cement, or preferably decommissions. Perhaps its iron could be remade into plow shares.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2198

The terra-former crews finished unloading their equipment and all of them were amazed at the sight before them. No where had they ever seen a mountain so large. The new land they had landed on had a single mountain range running north/south and it was huge! The crews had been ordered by the Master Caretaker to begin a sensor array as soon as possible and then begin preparations for a new colony to arrive within the next five turns. They had also been told that a worm should be transported as well but that was only a rumor as of yet. Of the coast they could make out the empath foil, SEA SPIRIT that was patrolling the area looking for sea worms and mapping the coast. It did give them some assurances to see the ship but they were still alone.

"All right you sluggards!" The master chief roared. " We got a new continent to explore and settle and we wont get it done setting around here."

The crews begin the re-assemble the terra-formers to begin their work....

*!*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2199

Dear Cha Dawn and the people of Cult of Planet,

Our scientists finished their work on Ecological Engineering sooner than expected, which is always a welcome surprise, and I am pleased to forward this technology to you. I am sure you will find it to be of significant use since it will allow us to harness the mineral bounty Planet loans to us. The Gaian people appreciate your support in our efforts to sustain, understand, and protect Planet, and this small gift should aid you our mutual search.

We finally were able to harness the artifact we found in the sea outside of Hive territory. It contained the specifications for an advanced armor based on a Plasma principle, one that the Hive has had for quite a while. After contacting Aki we were able to trade her Ecological Engineering for Resonance Armor, and this will be of greater use than Plasma Armor in our efforts to protect ourselves against rogue agents of Planet.

You should also know that a faction in the Parliament has convinced the Council that we should research more mundane economic and industrial technologies. I was skeptical, but my fellow Council person Colin, with whom you may be acquainted, pointed out to me that to defend ourselves against the deprecations of these technologies we must first understand them, and in understanding them we can use them wisely, and perhaps advance understanding of Planet itself.

Take care Cha, and Walk with Planet,
Dee

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2199

The honored Governor Lady Deirdre Skye, the esteemed Gaian Parliament and the Planet loving Gaian people my most heartfelt and warm greetings!

I can not tell you how much your gift has meant too us! We can now begin to restore the fungus that has been ravaged by tree expansion throughout our lands. It has also allowed us to proceed to the next level of discovery, the creation of an isle of the deep. We have yet to see only one isle since our arrival on Planet and I know suspect our area is devoid of them. Perhaps this has something to do with the toxic waste the Hive dumps near our territory! We fully expect that once reaching this new plateau of research in another 14 years we should be able to unlock many new secrets about Planet. What I would like to propose is this. We will complete our research in a few years and we will transfer this technology to you under two conditions: one, that you do not use any of the fruits of this research to explore any special projects that might come from it and two, that you send to us one technology, of our choosing. I think this is more than fair since the "level" of technology we shall transmit to you is far and above greater than any of the mundane technologies you might have. Please consider this offer carefully since I think it will compliment both of our societies.

I also have grave misgivings with your exchanges with the Cyborgs. I think they have fallen under the spell of the Pravin Lal and are nothing more than his lapdogs. Lal has made a bargain with the devil and as such will sacrifice the purity of our race for his power, please be cautious in your dealings with them! Beware the machine!!

Lastly, I have considered this for some time and I now think it might be prudent if we were to exchange maps. Our exploration of Planet is leading us into new areas and uncharted waters. Perhaps it is time to exchange information so as to avoid any problems in the future.

May Planet shine on your good people and give them the peace of mind that transcends all worldly desires!

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn

First Disciple of the Planet. He who walks in the soul of the Planet.

[Hydro]

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2200

Dear Cha Dawn and the people of the Cult of Planet,

The Gaian people are always eager to expand our knowledge, and your terms are more than fair. The Council also enthusiastically agrees to your proposal to exchange world maps, since this is also a form of knowledge. Our world map is attached, and I think you will find we have pushed back the veil over large parts of Planet.

I’m afraid I can’t agree with your assessment of the Cyborgs, Pravin Lal, or even the Hive. As Planetary Governor I have to keep an open door to all unless there is severe provocation, and to do my utmost to help engender peace to flourish. I do have some concerns since I recently found out it was the Hive that declared war on the Cyborgs, but as of yet I do not know who has declared war on whom between the University and Cyborgs. These unpleasant situations resist most efforts of simplifications, and there is more to be learned. I have no information that the Cyborgs or Peacekeepers are undertaking any efforts hostile to Planet or other factions, but I will keep both an open mind and a vigilant ear and would be most interested if you come across any verifiable data on these subjects.

Walk with Planet,
Dee

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2200

The Master Seeker slowly crept into the room and quietly sat down at the table. He was getting old now and soon he would have to relinquish his control of the Seekers Guild. He never trusted the techniques used to prolong life and the very fact of exposing his mind to possible examination and examination was not something he ever wanted to happen.

"You are here." A quiet but firm voice asked. The Master Seeker swiveled in the chair, his robes spinning about as he grasped the dagger beneath his robes.

"Please, be at ease. I am sorry that I did that but I only noticed that you had entered the room as you sat down." The voice moved towards him and the Master Seeker switched the lights on from the table console.

"Ahh, it is you, good, Akim Sula, the Hive Thought Guard covert operations specialist. Why did you come so far to meet with me." The Master Seeker slowly resumed his seat as his Hive counterpart did the same.

"Master Seeker John Evans, Chief of Cult intelligence services. I am glad you got my cryptic message but I knew that if anyone could understand the cipher I used it would be you." Akim pulled back the hood of his robe and a very young man appeared. He was thin but one could tell very muscular and his features were very plain. The best for a spy that wishes to blend in. " I am here to talk to you about an alliance. A treaty. I am sure you can talk with Cha Dawn and persuade him to join forces with us."

"Why do you ask such foolish questions. If you are as good as I know you are why would you ask me something like that when you know the answer." Evans responded.

"I ask it because it is the only logical course of action. We have intercepted some comm-link traffic that suggest you are looking to attack us and that I assure you would lead to both of our destructions. So, if we can not be enemies lets be friends." Akim finished with a slight sly smile on his face.

"I know that war with you would be too costly for us both, but Cha is determined to have Yang's hide for destroying the Planet. As long as we have sea technology and you do not we can strike at will while you can not. We can field an army that does not require forward supplies, just a fungal patch for food and rest. So, why should we be afraid of attacking." Evans asked.

"Your worms are impressive but they can not go down into our cities, our shaft, our tunnels. So, we will wait and see who can win. But, I have a counter-offer from Yang. He will support any attack you make against the Peacekeepers which will clear them away for northern expansion. Yang will move east towards the University and you north. Your west is protected by the Spartans so you are in a very good position. However, you can not wage war in both directions-east and north."

"I will pass this on to Cha. I doubt he will agree. Until hostilities break out can we agree to not kill either nations operatives or agents. The Unity Pact is still in effect, correct?" Evans asked as he stood up and put forth his hand.

"Agreed. I do admit that I look forward to the day that I can test myself against you and your seekers. But for now as agreed upon by the Unity Pact, no overt actions until vendetta is declared." Akim shook his hand and turned and left the room.

Evans slowly sat down again. Well retirement would have to wait for now...

*!*!*!*

Thorny Vineyard, MY 2201

Deirdre stepped up to the dias and proffered an oversize pair of sizzors, which she then took down to waist level and placed the open blades over a bright green ribbon.

“With this cut I officially open the newest Gaian city, Thorny Vineyard! This is our 20th and latest city, but it is certainly not our least! Your potential is only limited by your resourcefulness, and the bountiful energy your city is founded on is likely to give you a bright start. Congratulations!”

Dee cut the ribbon with an elaborate gesture and it fell away, floating to the floor. A spontaneous cheer went up from the thousand excited colonists, who lined up in the middle aged deciduous forest. The leaves were turning and the floor was tinged with gold, as was the sky. It matched the mood of the celebrants.

A surge of well-wishers formed a receiving line, and Dee was drafted to be on of those being honored. She tried to beg off, but the new Mayor Fineroy insisted, and conveniently put himself immediately next to the luminary that Dee was, that way everyone who shook her hand would also shake his – ham-handed but effective political maneuvering.

It only took a few hours before all the hands had been shaken, and all the rounds had been completed. Dee was tired and finally convinced the Mayor to excuse her departure. He demurred, being slightly disappointed that she wouldn’t take up one of her famous impromptu interactive lectures on her insights on Planet.

As Dee left she reflected on the subject of how much growth is a good thing. With 20 bases the Gaians had the population and resources of the next three largest factions combined. How much was enough? Clearly they had enough to defend themselves and their way of life, and Dee vowed that there would be no more gratuitous colonization, except perhaps in the Jungle – for research purposes.

Dee found her cube and drew back the inviting blankets, and in a few moments she was asleep.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2201

Eve looked down from the crater rim and smiled. There before her eyes were two lumbering terra-formers and a colony pod. They would arrive next turn and begin setting up a colony. The colony would not get built right away, a sensor system would be put in first, a delay, but a necessary one. Then the crews would build a farm on the high yield nutrient sector to the north and then a forest. Then they would move on to build another sensor array for the second colony to be built in the crater. Her father had given her the honor of naming the new colony and she had chosen Eden as the name. Eden would be her command center and capital of the Cult people on crater continent. She had also asked her father to reveal her true status but he had refused. She had been told that doing so would put her in to great of risk.

The colony pod and terra-formers continued to lumber along and she continued to watch. The people of the Planet had grown but they were still weak when compared to the others. Many of the core Cult cities had network nodes and a biology lab, children crèche's and other improvements. The cities were comfortable and pleasant places and she hated them. Ever since she had been allowed to come to the new land she had loved the danger, independence and exploration. Now, her father told her she must put aside such things since he was now the Governor of Crater continent.

Suddenly her comm-unit beeped and she keyed in the link.

"This is Eve, over?"

"Governess Eve, this is Hope of the Planet command center. We have wonderful news to report. A rogue worm tried to attack the city but it bonded with an apprentice Guide. As you instructed, should another worm become available, we have ordered them to explore the northern end of the
island and if they can tackle the fungal tower, over?"

"Very good, councilperson Tong. Send me an update of the status of the second colony pod over my palm unit, Eve out." Eve flicked the link closed and breathed slowly. She wished it was her exploring that fungal tower but other tasks demanded her attention.

She slowly walked down the slope where the crews were still trying to move along the steep path.

*!*!*!

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2202

“I propose a moratorium on further colonization, unless authorized by the Council or expressly ordered by an act of Parliament. This would mean that base governors would not have the authority to start gathering the resources to form a new base, and it would mean that factions would not be able to push for further expansion without the consent of the majority in Parliament or a plurality in the Council.,” Dee said to the assembled Council.

Terry dutifully recorded the proposal and waited for a second, which came reluctantly from Colin.

Ling was fidgeting, and finally couldn’t stand it anymore. “That is all grand theory, not harming Planet and not over utilizing it resources and all that, but the fact remains that the other factions will not stop their expansion, such as it is, and I see no reason why we should hobble ourselves. More bases mean more resources, and resources are the key to preserving our way of life.”

New Council member Martinez spoke up, “We need to be sensitive to the perceptions of others, Councilperson Ling. If we grow too large we will be viewed as a superpower, much like the United States was in the late 20th and early 21st Century, and China and the EU in the middle 21st Century. The former was targeted by everyone around them, and eventually succumbed to fundamentalism, and the later were consumed in pointless flash wars until they fragmented.”

“Yes, yes,” Ling said. “That is an interesting history lesson, but you have not shown that if they had hobbled themselves that they would have survived or survived better. Others would argue that the US was decaying into a theocracy long before it was attacked on all sides, and the Chinese and EU experiment were crafted from disparate parts that were bound to disintegrate and reform. Your argument proves nothing.”

Dee interjected. “I would say that we don’t need to expand, so we shouldn’t. Why have tens of bases all over Planet? I can understand a few scientific stations or bases to observe critical areas, but there is a point of diminishing returns. We also need to consider the fact that our existing bases need to concentrate on development, and producing so many colony pods is debilitating to their resources and population base. It is time to grow ‘up’, and not ‘out’.”

“Well said,” Colin said. “What do you say to that?” he said to Ling.

“As long as we can defend ourselves I can support this proposition as long as it is clear that it can be revoked when needed,” she said.

“Agreed,” Dee said. “Terry, could you modify the text please?”

“Sure,” Terry replied. “Consider it done.”

Dee asked. “When can we submit this to Parliament?”

Terry thought for a moment. “A couple days at most. Want to get a final read?”

“No, it is clear. Just submit it.”

“Motion amended. Call for a vote,” Terry said. There was a series of ‘ayes’, and no ‘nays’ “Since there are no more items on the agenda I propose we adjourn.”

The Council members looked at Terry in surprise. He never asked for adjournment!

“Hot date, Terry?” Colin asked.

Terry looked at him. “None of your business.” He looked around. “Second?” Colin laughed a little and seconded the motion, which was followed by more ‘aye’s and the scraping of chairs as Council members left. For a change Terry was the first one out the door.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2202

Cha had been sitting at his desk for hours relishing the good news that continued to flow through his desk day by day. They had completed the first biology lab and had begun the process to create their own mind worms. Within two turns two new bases would be established with more two come. Sea-formers had added more valuable kelp farms and tidal/energy collectors and soon his Dawn of the Planet would have its own sea resources. And what is the most important news had just come in. An isle of the deep had been captured by the Sea Spirit! What news! Just a few more pieces had to come into place and soon the Cult could strike. With Eden up and running it would serve as the forward command center for the attack on the Hive. Master Seeker Evans had assured him the Eve was as ready as ever to start the campaign and run it once the forces were in place. It almost seemed like too good of news.

The next report was from the Master Seeker stating that his Gaian agent, who was still a secret to Cha, was continuing to give more valuable information to him. The Gaians had stopped expanding. This was both good news and bad. The time would allow the Cult to catch up but the Gaians would have more infrastructure. He had been ready to threaten Skye with severe consequences if she continued to expand putting further strain on the Planet. To grow for growths sake was not acceptable. No, he much preferred it this way for now. The Gaians had stopped claiming more land and the Cult would do so as well since the plan was not to claim much more "new" land but liberate that which was already in use.

A small boy, barely four years old ran under the desk and laughed as Cha pulled him out from underneath.

"Adam, have I not told you to knock first before entering!" Cha scolded the boy but with little enthusiasm.

"Father, I was getting bored waiting for you. You promised to show me the video of the new sea worm!" Adam stated with hands on his hips.

"Yes, lets go look at this new creature, together..."

[Hydro]

Virgin Soil, MY 2203

“I don’t get out here as much as I should,” Colin said as he sipped his tea. “I’m glad you invited me. Now, what was it you wanted to talk about?”

Colin’s friend smiled. “Nothing in particular. I’m just currious how things are going, and what’s new.” He said this as casually as he could, knowing it would evoke an immediate response from the talkative Colin.”

“Well, there’s lots going on. You’re going to keep this on the QT, aren’t you,” he asked.

His friend nodded and put what he hoped was a sincere look on his face.

“It’s not a big secret, be we were able to get the Cult’s maps. That was a real eye opener, let me tell you. We were all shocked, just shocked, at how undeveloped some of the factions are. I mean, they’ve had over a hundred years to do some basic terraforming and the Spartans and Hive have done hardly a lick! The Cyborgs and University are much better, but that may be because of their limited space. We all thought the Cult had done a fine job, with forests everywhere and farms interspersed among them. It was a little confusing, though, since in all his correspondence the is Cha Dawn speaks very strongly on how we should preserve Planet, and here he goes removing the fungus! Odd, that. Anyway, the Peacekeepers are spread all over creation, but we knew that already, and their terraforming is weak at best.”

“How does our terraforming compare?” he asked.

“Pretty good, I suppose,” Colin responded. “We are heavy on forest, and have several farms at critical areas. We even have or are constructing a few condensers…”

“Condensers! Doesn’t that damage the ecology?” his friend asked.

“Not much, and the forests make up for it,” Colin said as if trying to convince himself.

“Please, I interrupted. Go on.”

“We have a number of mines now, but they aren’t being used yet to any great degree. Some planner somewhere has issued a white paper on how mines will be necessary in the near future . I don’t know why, and I never looked into it to find out. One good thing is that our road system is the best on Planet, and we are able to move goods back and forth with ease.”

“And troops?” his friend said.

“Well, yes. Troops can be efficiently moved back and forth, especially the speeders and probe teams. And formers too, although they are generally pretty busy where they are and it doesn’t make much sense spending a lot of time moving them around. Most are filling in forests in otherwise unproductive land. There may even be a time when they have nothing to do.”

“No!” his friend exclaimed.

“Yes!” Colin took a deep sip of the tea and helped himself to more cookies, munching in silence for a few moment.

While he was eating his friend jumped in again, “Any new work on Zak? I hear he’s made another breakthrough.”

Colin held up his finger as he finished savoring the butter cookie, took a sip of the aromatic Earl Grey tea, and then responded, “Yes, he is building the Planetary Networks, which will give him intellectual parity for sure.”

“Hasn’t the Council persuaded Zak for a trade?”

Colin snorted. “Not likely. He is magnanimous and all, but he has no interest in trading technologies, claiming we’d steal his Project and all.”

“Would you?” he asked.

“Not if he asked us not to,” Colin said. “He just doesn’t trust us.”

“Too bad, just too bad. Anything new on Dee?

Colin launched into a detailed rendition of the festivities at Thorny Vineyard, and his friend laughed at all the right places and exclaimed when he should.

He also recorded everything Colin said. Certain parties would be very interested, very interested indeed.

*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2203

Cha walked with Master Seeker Evans through the small garden next to Cha's private quarters. Twilight bathed the garden in a fiery red glow highlighting the fungus patch and blooms.

"Plans are in place to begin re-seeding the home islands with fungus. Two terra-formers are to be built with this function only." Cha remarked as he continued to walk.

"It is funny that you bring that up my Prophet. I was just about to report to you that since our last exchange of map files the Gaians seemed very shocked by the lack of fungus throughout our lands." Master Seeker Evans leaned over and picked up a broken fungal flower that had fallen to the ground and begin to pick the petals from it.

"The Gaians! HAH! They have had technology for decades to maintain the correct balance of fungus and yet they still plow under every field they have a chance. I mean to address this with Lady Skye on my next communiqué to her. To think she is a friend of the Planet and her and her compatriots support continued expansion." Cha huffed loudly as he finished.

"Be that as it may. The Gaians are expanding in all aspects. They have mines, they have huge forests. They have a huge continent to live on and yet they expanded across the sea to gain more land. This hardly seems the acts of a Planet friendly race." The spy master continued to pull petals from the flower.

"Once Eve has a three more mind worms, a spore launcher and two isles of the deep will land and tack the most southern city away from the Hive. We will then continue our campaign and with my prayers to the Planet she will rise up and strike down Yang and his society. I will.."

"My Prophet, I do not mean to interrupt but if we are to make this attack I really do strongly suggest that we also invest in building a intelligence unit to travel with the worms. Once the Hive city is secure the intelligence operatives will make sure the city is secure from any
subterfuge."

"Agreed. I will issue orders for Eden to build one intel. unit to proceed with the task force." Cha turned and began to walk back to his rooms.

"I think it would be prudent that one the attack is about to begin that you inform me so that I can put some pressure on our operatives in the Gaian councils to get us Empath Guild intelligence on the strength of the forces arrayed against us. I am sure Lady Skye will not give us that information freely, so we must help ourselves. I will have our operative obtain information on the most southern Hive city. This way he will reduce his exposure." Master Seeker Evans was almost out of petals as he reached the door to Cha's quarters.

"Good. You will return later to begin military instruction on advanced tactics to Adam, correct?" Cha asked as he waited for Evans to open the door for him.

"Yes my Prophet. So I have your support for my operations, the intelligence team and the spy?" Evans asked.

"Yes, I thought I had made myself clear on that." Cha walked in and the door slowly closed behind him.

The Master Spy pulled the last fungus petal off of the stem and then crushed the stem in his hands. The Hive must be broken like the stem. Capture the outlying cities first leaving Yang only his capital and then crush him before he tries to crush us...

*!*!*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2204

“Lady Skye, our infrastructure projects are proceeding nicely. This year we have finished four children’s crèches, all due to the timely allocation of energy from Gaia’s Landing. Several bases of our smaller bases, particularly our first base Razorback Wood in the Jungle, will need recreation commons soon, but soon all of our bases will have the basic infrastructure of a recycling tank and a recreation commons. We are less developed than factions like the University, Cult of Planet, or the Cyborgs, but we have significantly more resources,” senior planner Meuller stated.

Dee looked over a schematic map of the Gaian homeland, which was color and symbol coded to represent base size and the level of improvements in these bases. She pointed at Gaia’s landing, Fallow Time, and Virgin Soil. “These bases seem to have the most improvements, and Gaia’s Landing and Fallow Time are working on research hospitals. Why haven’t the bases outside this ring been developing their structures?”

“As a rule they have either been collecting the considerable resources needed to form and support colony pods, or they have build Command Centers to build basic defenses for the heart of our lands. For instance, Flower’s Preach must have formed at least four colony pods and it is just now starting on its improvements, and Dreams of Green has provided most of the defenses we have now, and it just finished the prototype resonance armor garrison. Some bases have build perimeter defenses, and eventually all of our bases will have perimeter defense and upgraded defenders. In short, they’ve been busy.”

Dee nodded. This fit with what was discussed in Council, even if those discussions rarely went into this much detail. There were simply too many issues to address, and this time pressure prevented delving into any one issue to any depth.

“What is the status of our research? The last I heard we were doing pretty well,” Dee said.

“Yes. We have bested your old boss Zak by several multiples, and have three times the research of any other faction. Our early emphasis on establishing bases is the key here, and our natural efficiency which enhances our effective energy production. The fact that we are allocating 70% of our energy to research helps, too. We expect a breakthrough in Industrial Economics in four or five years, and it is likely we will research Industrial Automation next.”

Dee’s brow furrowed. “Industrial Automation. Why that? Who did you hear that from? I don’t recall that being brought to the attention of the Council.”

“The Science Advisory Board of the Parliament asked us to issue a white paper on what technology area would provide us an overall advantage to production and economy without harming Planet, and this technology was a clear choice.” Planner Meuller looked at Dee, who was silent and contemplative.

“Thank you for your time, Joel. Do you mind if I mention this to our Council members?” she asked.

“Of course not. I’m surprised you didn’t get the white paper. It wasn’t a secret.”

“I’m surprised, too,” she said. “Do you have a copy?”

“I’ll squirt you one. Is this evening OK?”

“That’s fine. I look forward to it. Thanks again.”


*!*!*!*!*

Cult, MY 2204

Ivan Ivanovich had been brooding for hours. For nearly two decades his power had been on the decline, Cha only took advice from the old man, the Master Seeker. He had spent the last year in the hospital receiving a youth treatment, something that had become more rare as of late. It seems that Cha's preferred method of elimination these days were natural causes. The
new faith, which had been in his hands for decades had all but been turned over to a new clergy of devoted fanatics all committed to the Planet and Cha Dawn. The two new terra-formers were not to be operated by the caretakers but by the Rangers religious arm. Each sector of soon to be reclaimed fungus was to be blessed and protected from future expansion by the trees.

Ivan had let lapse many of his old contacts but recently he had begun to use his contacts with other factions to build up new ones. Ivan hoped that in time that he would regain his stature with Cha, who despised dealing with the other factions, by being the main contact for the Cult. There were many obstacles that needed to be undone first. The master seeker was number one. Also, he needed to re-establish control over the new faith and take over the appointment process of Ranger priests rather than Cha. So much to do, so much.

Suddenly the comm-ling buzzed and Ivan opened the channel.

"Ranger one, this is Ranger Thomas Miller. I am contacting you to report something I have seen."

"Speak Ranger Miller, what is it?" Ivan leaned closer to the comm-station and hit the white noise button that would protect this conversation from eavesdropping.

"Ranger One, I was working with the Prophet this morning on some issues with some new converts in the Gaian lands and a small child entered the room and called the Prophet, his father!" The voice on the other line begin to quiver a bit.

"Easy, easy. Tell no one of this and come to my apartments as quickly as possible!" Ivan closed the channel and released the white noise lock.

He smiled a bit and thought, leverage!

*~*~*~*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2205

Dee sighed. Yet another demand from a faction leader for a war, and this one from the Peacekeepers! Pravin seemed livid in general, and apoplectic in specific against Chairman Yang. He cited all sorts of wrongs, some real and others likely imagined, that should be used to justify a ‘quick war’ against Yang to ‘serve humanity’.

It was enough to make Dee want to pull her hair in frustration. Granted, some of the faction leaders had formed truly odd societies. Yang had chosen a neo-communist style of authoritarian government, with a strong emphasis on thought control. The Cyborgs were, well, cyborgs and they seemed to love all things mechanical. That said, Aki’s and Zak’s societies were at least understandable in their desire for understanding, even if Zak tended to push the envelope of ethics now and then if reports were to be believed. Santiago was her old ‘blood makes grass grow’ self, and the few times she had deigned to talk to her it had been about military matters, although she was more interested than most in trading technology. Lal had been a hypocrite for decades, and his wars against the Hive were most unseemly. And then there was the enigmatic Cult, and its leader Cha Dawn.

What do I think of them? Dee had thought long and hard about that subject. On one level they were natural allies since they held the belief that Planet must be protected. On another level they were certainly not a free society, and it was pretty clear that Cha Dawn had no interest in individual liberty, and that he cared very little about democracy. The Cult beliefs smacked of some of the old irrationality of Earths old religions, taking the veneration of Planet to an almost hysterical level. Their belief systems were their right, but sometimes Dee knew she had a hard time following their logic, particularly in Cha Dawn’s ‘Given Truths’ lectures that seemed to permeate the Cult airwaves. These had made it to Gaian lands, and there were Cult temples popping up in many of the larger cities. Their attendants were not large in number, but they were very vocal and many cried out that the Gaian government was corrupted and had betrayed Planet. Luckily they were a very small percentage of the population, but their protests made great news lines, and lately they had taken to mocking the Council, and had targeted particular Progressive members of Parliament.

It was enough to give her a headache. Were all the factions on Planet lunatics? Or maybe we are all lunatics from a lunatic world that had destroyed itself?

Now it was late, and Dee put on her silk nightgown and took off her slippers. After a long day her bed looked so inviting.

[Hydro]

Cult, MY 2205

Ivan had just fallen into a deep sleep when two strong arms picked him up and then wrapped around his neck. Ivan's mind was reeling and he desperately fought at his attacker but to no avail. The seconds began to add up and his mind was beginning to fog over and it was getting hard to see. Then standing in front of him was the Master Seeker and he was saying something.

"You should have been content with your role in life Ivan. The Prophet has always been pleased with your work but you have always had a problem with boundaries. Now you will go to a place that has none. The Prophet will pray for you." The Seeker seemed to look behind him and said. "finish it" and then he turned and left.

Suddenly Ivan felt more pressure and then nothing.

____________

Cha listened to the report the next morning of the brutal attack on his most beloved disciple Ivan Ivanovich. No clues had been found by the investigators but something would turn up. Cha looked around the room at the entire command council of the Planet. Each department had brought all of their senior advisors and aides. All of the chairs were filled except for one.

"I grieve as you all do for the brutal attack on our most favored disciple but life and our cause must go on. So I have decided to raise Ranger Victor Ramos as the new head of the order of the Rangers!" Cha finished as he waved his hand and the doors opened and Victor Ramos walked in. Victor was a tall man over six feet four inches. His hair was black and streaked with white and he had very bushy eyebrows. His robes did little to hide his very muscular build but his most distinct feature were his eyes. Victor had nearly black on black eyes, hardly showing any white at all. They seemed to bore into you whenever he caught your gaze. The new leader of the Ranger was a fanatic to the new faith, completely devoted to Cha and the cause of the Planet. Victor walked over to Cha and threw himself to the ground and kissed Cha's feet.

"My Prophet, you do my great honor!" Victor said with great awe in his voice.

"Raise my first disciple and receive the greetings of the council." Cha reached down and helped Victor to his feet. All of the other senior councilors and aides all clapped.

"I swear by this Planet that I will bring the faith to all of the people on Planet in the name of the Prophet!" Victor boomed over the clapping.

"Thank you, thank you." Cha said as he turned towards Victor and motioned for him to sit. Quickly all of the others in the room sat except for Cha.

"We have much work before us. We will be expanding again soon and our population is growing as well. The bounty of the sea has allowed our people to prosper but not at the expense of the Planet. In less than six years we will complete our next breakthrough and many of our empathic citizens will complete their training to go out among the people and help them with their good works. All of them have been chosen by our new Ranger One and they are the vanguard of the Rangers. They will make sure the citizens prosper and live in harmony and live in the word of the Planet. There is much work before us and our great cause. Soon things will be put into motion that will forever change things on planet. We must carry our cause to the other non-believers on Planet so they see the wisdom of serving Planet before all other things. Now I wish to thank all of you for coming and as you leave please give your thanks to Ranger One. If the senior command council could stay for a small and quick meeting we would be most thankful."

The aides and advisors all began to leave and as the filed out they paid homage to Victor Ramos. Cha turned slowly to look at the Master Seeker who quickly looked up at him. For a brief second an understanding of what had been done passed between them and Cha knew that his master spy had killed Ivan Ivanovich. The planned leak over a year ago to test Ivan's loyalty must have gone as planned and this was the result...

*~*~*~*

Lily of the Valley, MY 2206

“So why are we going to Lily? I thought we were based at Green?” gunner Shue asked.

“I’m not really sure, but I think it has something to do with the delays in the Project Lily of the Valley is working on. They should have completed it a long time ago, and they are accumulating resources too fast,” Second Lieutenant Marshal said.

“But why send us there? What does that have to do with their Project?”

“I think that Lily is going to be our new home base, and we’ll draw supplies from there instead of Dreams of Green. Our other impact rover traveled to Lily last year for re-homing, and the garrisons are going, too. Green will be able to increase its industrial production by about 30% without us drawing supplies from them.”

“Oh,” Shue said. “And Lily’s accumulation of minerals toward their Project will decrease.”

“Yes, exactly. Everyone wins, and when the next Project we can complete comes up then Lily will be able to complete it immediately. And, before you ask,” Marshal continued, “I have no idea what that Project might be. The other factions seem to have a lock on useful Projects, and there have been no announcements of technology trades for a long time. So, I think Lily’s stuck.”

Shue nodded as if he understood, but to Marshal he had a somewhat blank expression on his face.

“I hope their food is better,” Shue said as he turned back to his consol on Impact Rover Squad Two.

“It will be different, at least,” Marshal said, following Shue’s line of thought. “No more fungal fiber for us.”

Shue screwed up his face in distaste. “I hate that stuff. Why do they even make it? It does make good lubricant, though.”

“Yes,” Marshal said, “cleans you right out.”

“I always **** pink, too,” Shue said.

Marshal let that one drop, so to speak.

*~*~*~*

Cult, MY 2206

Governess Ever walked down the corridor and stopped at the door to her private quarters and then quickly punched in her keycode and entered. It had been a very tiring day. They had complete the work on the forests and she then ordered the terra-formers to proceed to the east to begin building another sensor array. Hope of the Planet had completed a second colony pod, right on schedule and it would soon be moving eastward to set-up the new colony near Eden. She eased herself into her chair and turned on the computer and began reading the days mail. Junk. Her aides had not yet gotten the knack of screening her mail leaving her only the most important stuff to address. Suddenly her comm-link began to beep, the tone indicated it was her father on the private line.

"Eve, this is your father. How are you doing my most cherished daughter?" Cha asked, his tone was very warm but something was wrong.

"Father, I am well, I can I serve you?" Eve asked.

"You can inform me as to why you have not bonded more worms! We need at least three more to begin the attack. The isle of the deep is working its way north and should be at the embarkation point in just five turns. You have fallen behind and I need for you to move more quickly! The intelligence team I asked you prepare is not even started yet at Eden. I will authorize more energy next turn to aid you but you need to work your people harder and faster! Cha out!" The comm-link went dead.

That was not good at all, not one little bit. She knew her father wanted that southern Hive base before it could expand any further and reinforce itself. Eve had also expected that her father would demand she strip her mind worm garrisons but that would leave them all too vulnerable. No, she needed to bond more worms and fast.

*~*~*~*

Gaia’s Landing, MY 2207

The pleasant voice of the intercom sounded. “Lady Skye? There is an important message for you.”

Dee struggled to wake up, leaning up on one elbow. As she did she voice-activated the lights that instantly filled the room. It was a bit too sudden and Dee shielded her un-adjusted eyes.

“Who is it?” she asked. She had left an imperative for her rest not to be disturbed since she was recovering from longevity treatments, which not only wracked the body but were hard on the mind. It was very hard to think clearly.

“It is Chairman Yang, returning your call,” the voice said.

“Yang?” Dee repeated. Under her breath she said, “I called him two weeks ago, and now he calls back? Not very prompt.”

“I’m sorry,” the voice said. “I didn’t understand. Could you please repeat your request?”

“Put him through,” she said as she pulled on a robe and ran her fingers through her hair, which was not raven black again.

Dee turned toward her small communication center, and as she did so the austere visage of the Chairman came into view.

“Greetings Lady Skye,” Chairman Yang said in a low controlled voice, “My aids tell me you wish to speak with me about some issues of some importance.”

“Yes, Chairman,” she said as she sat down. “I have had several conversations with Aki of the Cyborgs and Pravin Lal of the Peacekeepers about the state of war that apparently exists between you. I have been unable for decades to speak with you directly, and I would like to get your side of the story.”

“The diplomatic status of the Hive is not your concern, Lady Skye,” Yang said.

That gave Dee pause. His body language wasn’t overly hostile, nor were his statements. Was he being deliberately provocative, or just evasive?

“I’m afraid it is, Chairman. You see, I was elected to the post of Planetary Governor, and part of those duties is to investigation any political disturbances, and war counts as a disturbance. It is clear you have been at war with the Cyborgs since before our factions met, and with the Peacekeepers almost that long.”

Dee paused for a second, considering how to continue. As that second ebbed she decided to be for a logical approach. “In order to make wise decisions I need to have the appropriate data, and one critical piece of data is who is at war with whom, and why. It is also necessary that I understand the cause or causes of this war. My decision will involve marshalling the resources of Planet to resolve this issue before it entangled the rest of our peoples, or distracts us from the daily tasks of trying to survive.”

Yang’s face didn’t change, but it was clear that he understood what ‘marshalling resources’ might imply.

She continued. “If you withhold your input then I will be forced to make my decisions without your version of events taken into consideration. Aki and Lal gave me complete information, and it would be…unfortunate…if theirs were the only views to which I have had access. Does that clarify my position for you?”

“I think I understand more clearly now,” Yang said, “and although it is none of your concern I am willing to divulge certain information as a personal favor to you. The Hive is a peaceful society, based on the good of the whole. We do not strive to subject others to our will, but only to expose them to our wisdom. Other factions are not so enlightened, I’m afraid. At our first meeting the Cyborg leader Aki declared war on The Hive, as did Pravin Lal shortly after we established communication. Their attitudes are most distressing to us, and we would be happy to lay down our arms if they would do the same.”

Now Deirdre was somewhat annoyed and alarmed. “Chairman, both Lal and Aki told me you started the war, stating that you told them that ‘the evils of democracy must be removed from the surface of Chiron’. Those were pretty strong words, Chairman, and they don’t fit with your account.”

“You are correct, Lady Skye. Those are strong words. Unfortunately, I did not say them. I have had little or no contact with other factions as we strive to build a worker’s paradise, and I have had little time for diplomacy. What you make of these statements and my refutation I do not know.”

“So,” Dee said, “you are saying that Aki and Lal are lying.”

“I am not,” he said. “I am saying that I did not say the statements that they attribute to me.”

“You did not start the wars?” Dee asked.

“No. As I explained, the people of The Hive love peace and would not seek to subject our will on others, and it is our hope that others would learn to accept this wisdom. We will gladly lay down our arms if the Peacekeepers and Cyborgs do likewise.”

Dee felt a headache building. Someone was lying.

“Very well,” she said. “Now, on another matter…”

“I am sorry, Lady Skye, but I have other matters to attend to. Perhaps you could attempt to contact us another time,” Yang said as he stepped out of view. The holo winked out.

Dee stared at the empty space. Had Yang just hung up on her? He was almost as irritating as Pravin Lal.

*!~*~*~*

Cult, MY 2207

Planet friend Lady Skye, the most distinguished delegates of the Gaian Parliament and the Planet loving Gaian people my most warm and sincere greetings to you!

Lady Skye, it has been far too long since we last spoke and I consider myself the cause. I focus too much of my time on my research and to my devoted people that I fail to take time to talk with our loyal allies in arms. I have much to tell and much to discuss and much to ask.

First, we people of the Planet have raised, in our own facilities, a mind worm! The worm itself is identical to any of the ones you find in the wonderful fungal fields of this planet. We did not use any form of exotic bio-engineering! We did however have our empaths concentrate their minds on the worm mass throughout the growth process so that when it was ready to emerge from the incubator it immediately was a friend of our people. Another amazing thing is that it will take orders from any of the empathic guides not like the bonded ones we found in the wild. It has opened up brand new vistas of research for us!

Second, We have established a colony on a small southern continent to our south. It is an amazing place with a ridge of mountains that extend for nearly 9 sectors! Our isle of the deep continues to search areas out to our south east and our empath foil explores to the south west. Soon we will have a new foil ready for sea trials. It will be an empath foil but it will be armored and have particle weapons! Its task is to explore our northern seas and hunt down more isles of the deep. I weep each night that we have not found as many as you and it truly makes my heart break. They are the most marvelous of creatures and I do so love them!

I would like to propose an exchange of maps. We have been exploring more of our seas and land and I think it would benefit us both. I suggest that if you agree please indicate so and I will release our map files to you. Also, we are now very close to completing our next scientific breakthrough! In less than three turns we will have the means to raise our own isles of the deep and we have created a new "cadre" of citizen helpers who are trained in medical arts, psychoanalysis and who are also extremely empathic! They will soon replace our field medics that travel throughout our cities aiding the populous.

I do wish to re-affirm our agreement for the exchange of our data for yours. Under the terms we will send you files to create your own isles of the deep and in exchange your will not pursue any special projects that might arise from it. Also, you will send us a list of technologies that we might not have so that we could select a first or second tier technology of our choosing. Is this still correct? Also, we should discuss in some depth perhaps coordinating our research again so that we can advance again as brothers and sisters in arms to protect Planet!

I do wish to inform you that on the continent to our north that has the "bowl of Heaven" as it has been renamed the new continental Governess is a lady named Eve. Her authority is only second to my own and she is fully empowered, under my guidance, to conduct whatever negotiations or matters that fall under her scope. She supervises all matters on the northern continent.

Lastly, I must tell you that I find the continuing bickering between the factions to be a constant drain on my time. I for one am glad that you are the one who has to deal with this than me. When I do try to talk with many of them I find they are abusive and cruel to my efforts to spread the cause of the Planet and inform their people of the virtues of our new faith. I know the new faith is still in its infancy in your nation but we count hundreds of new converts to our cause all who are faithful followers of the Planet. Only the Spartans have allowed us to send a few delegates to their nation and establish two temples to Planet. Alas, for all the others I find ridicule and scorn for my efforts!

I wish you well in your work and the Peace of the Planet!

May Planet shine on your good people and give them the peace of mind that transcends all worldly desires!

May you live in Peace and serve the Planet.

Prophet Cha Dawn

First Disciple of the Planet. He who walks in the soul of the Planet.