Advance Human Project

S4

I’m deep within my own thoughts about life and how mine began over a half million miles from where I am. Life for most humans on my home planet is a struggle. It’s the opposite here on S4, where I am now. Here, all life is precious. Here, love is abundant and given freely. It’s not even that it’s offered; it's all around, and it is something I’ve never experienced before coming here. I honestly feel strange about it and guilty. This loving place is foreign to me, yet I feel complete here. Feeling complete here makes me feel like I have abandoned who I am or was on Earth. I feel bad that I don’t want to return, but I must. I must find a way to stop those who have enslaved the rest of Earth.

Before I was born, a few scientists on Earth decided they had an obligation to make their world a better place. They felt they could improve the quality of life on Earth. They started by hypothesizing about what would improve us humans. Things like eliminating illness, slowing down or eliminating aging, and enhancing brain efficiency. All of these have honorable intentions. However, what was implied was to eliminate the weak, the dumb, and the old. When their work began, so did their sinister obsession with total control. These scientists approached the wealthiest people in the world and were easily enticed by the idea of becoming an “Advanced human.” The scientists presented their research as the Advance Human Project. So, in turn, I became AHP #1. I was the first successful project and am known as One.

When the AHP started, they decided the best place in the world to begin their testing was in the heart of America. The scientists had this large area where the people lived pretty normal and mundane lives and had most modern amenities. It wasn’t a third-world country but not a state-of-the-art city either, so it had no particular appeal to tourists. Therefore, no one outside of Middle America noticed the drastic changes occurring there. No one outside the scientists and their financial supporters seemed aware of the testing, which did not go well initially. They all failed and were worse. Some ended up doing the opposite of what they were trying to achieve; they had “slowed” down the humans they were trying to advance. This group of children they started the testing on became my generation’s parents. Although a failure of the scientists, the wealthy investors got a whole generation of dumbed-down workers who were quickly taken advantage of. They did as they were directed and barely thought for themselves.

The scientists controlled everything in my world, and it was all designed to have complete authority: the health care, the food, the education, the clothing, the toys, etc. Earth itself eventually became their giant laboratory. I don’t know if any thought I have ever had was my own. I have learned a lot of truths about my life and my existence on Earth since arriving on S4. The most horrifying thing I have learned is that my entire life was fake. Their AI even controlled my body, which seems to be dormant since arriving on S4. The only real day of my life was when members of S4 rescued me.

I met Cedric that day; he has since become my favorite person. He has this archaic sense of wisdom, which his spectacles emphasize. I never saw someone wear them in real life. The day I arrived, he went over my physical history, as Cedric is the top medical expert on S4. He said, “I’ve never seen this technology in someone, well, alive.”

I remember feeling immensely frustrated because, yet again, even on S4, I’m still the ‘first,’ even this far away from home. Querying Cedric, I had asked, “Literally, no one alive has ever come to you with a chip or AI in them?” I remember sighing so loudly, then feeling ashamed for doing so immediately, as it wasn’t Cedric’s fault.

He had answered, “No, I just didn’t realize they had them when they were alive, and neither had they. Or they were just too scared to say so. We only realized once they had died and were brought back here to be scanned. We scan everybody for data before their vessel is composted. It’s not like there have been many, as only a few Earthlings have died here with AI. This is how I understand what little I do about your AI. I understand that your AI has a symbiotic relationship with you and others with the same type of communication chip. It had seemed the AI deactivated when the hosts expired, but now I no longer think so.” He had adjusted himself fruitlessly, trying to find a way out of that rather uncomfortable situation. He continued, “Listen, child, I know you have been through hell, and coming here with us must have seemed like your dream come true. I mean, I hope it is. We will find a way to remove their tech from your body.” He had smiled so warmly at me that I believed him. I was confident he would save me.

When I was rescued and met Cedric that day, nothing went as planned, but it worked out. I remember hearing, “Here, over here. Help me get her on the hover. Be gentle; she’s still alive.”

They had found me in an abandoned building, and it wasn’t before I arrived. It was one of their facilities. I had watched the building for days. Two cars had come and gone, each with a single man. The activity was minimal; that’s all I knew for sure, but I had to get closer to learn more. I was so excited to finally have an opportunity to see and hopefully kill the man responsible for ruining my life. I remember making my way closer to the building and realizing it was strangely quiet, like absolutely no noise. This would happen when I got an update for my chip. I first noticed this when I was younger and still going to the laboratories with my mom. It used to bother me, and my parents just thought I was crazy when I would tell them about it. Actually, who knows what they thought, if anything? They just told me I was okay because they were told I was okay.

Even though I experienced that strange silence, I still walked closer to the building, and there was a moment when I felt like I had walked through an invisible wall of energy and had come apart. It felt like time no longer existed and physical matter had dissolved. I could feel everything all at once, and then, with another step toward the building, those feelings were gone. Instead of that strange experience being a warning, it agitated my curiosity. I ran closer, and I don’t remember what happened next. They knew I was there, and in fact, I’m sure they had lured me there.

I do not remember taking more than that second step before I heard the voices of S4 residents. Cedric says I was there for just over twenty-four hours. It took the scientist less than that to pack everything up and disappear. It plagues me to wonder why they abandoned their facility and left me. Why am I, ‘One,’ free? What was their game? Why had I not been terminated? Is this all in the name of science? UGH! These stupid questions plague me. In stories, it all makes sense. We know who the bad guys are. We know who the good guys are. And here I am, wondering who I am supposed to be. Sometimes, I feel like I became the lead scientist's favorite pet. I think I have far surpassed his hopes for his original AHPs. I’m sure he is arrogantly proud of me and the others advanced enough to escape. Yet, as I think this thought, I wonder if we were let go and only led to believe that we escaped! Maybe their manipulation included my rescue from Earth.

Floating World

The lights have risen in my room; it's my alarm to get going for the day. What a ridiculous concept a day, or what any particular day is out here, in the middle of space floating on S4. There is a day of some kind relevant to where we are, but it’s such a ridiculous time frame that it’s irrelevant to humans. We float or revolve and rotate in this particular galaxy as if we are organically part of it. I’m not at all sure how any of it works. What I do know is humans didn’t create it. The species that did is long gone, not dead, just somewhere else. I find it peculiar a species created an artificial planet-like ship to save humanity and then left without returning or communicating. Strange.

They created S4, an AI ship that loves and nurtures the humans in it, creating loving humans. S4 has a feminine voice, and the best way to describe how she is seen is like an artificially intelligent matriarch to all her inhabitants. Living here is the most magical experience possible. The only mission is to live in peace while saving those who need it the most from Earth, and they chose me. They saved me, and every moment I’m here, I’m thankful and driven to save others.

It’s time to venture out and contribute to my S4 community. I’m genuinely grateful to be here. It’s nothing like I ever pictured a spaceship to be. It might be a machine, but it’s a lot like Earth, with a rather large park to enjoy. I even ride a bicycle as part of my physical fitness routine. Imagine that: a leisurely ride on a bicycle while on a spaceship. A lot here used to bother me like it was too perfect. I keep waiting for the floor to fall out or something catastrophic to happen, but until then, I’ll enjoy this comfort.

“Good day, Bino!”

“Good Day, One! I’m so excited about our game later!”

“Me too!”

I felt truly happy and warm as I walked with Bino to the dining halls. I loved walking through the oversized, double wooden doors that always led to wafts of delicious savory and sweet aromas. I would have never dreamt of spaceships looking like S4. It's warm and has a cozy essence even on its grand scale.

“Greetings Claire, Zeikel!” Bino greeted our usual mealmates. Claire was from Earth like Bino and me, and Zeikel was born on S4. We’re all pretty close in age, which feels different here on S4. I mean, Zeikel is my age, but he seems much older. I think growing up in such a perfect place just enables you to grow more as an individual. Zeikel seems like he’s lived many lives before the one he is currently experiencing. He’s calm, gentle, competent, and intellectually brilliant. He seems to know just about anything you ask him about. Although he’s not the smartest, Claire unspokenly holds that title. This girl is incredible! She is probably one of the most brilliant people in all of S4. She’s also spunky and has an appetite for life! Everyone knows her and loves her as much as the next person. Honestly, it’s like she grew up here the way she just fit right in. We entered S4 on the same transport, and I’m not nearly as adjusted.

“One! Good to see you, dear. If you can come by later, I would like to run a new test.” Cedric greeted our whole table with a delightful smile, nodding at everyone. He seemed particularly happy this morning.

“Sure! I’ll be by this afternoon!”

He moved along quickly to get his meal. A few little girls ran past him, giggling and goofing around, almost tripping Cedric. He laughs at their excited energy and whirls around instead of falling. This moment sums up life on S4; humans love each other here, unlike Earth. I can just imagine a man Cedric’s age being painfully grumpy and yelling at children for just existing near him. That pretty much sums up Earth.

“Alright, let’s go. We have to get going on those repairs.” Bino jumps up, grabbing his favorite pastry to go.

“Zeikel, do you want to update the receiving frequency for the next transport? It’s due tonight, and they are entering from Portal 2, not 3 as originally planned.” Claire asks as she gathers her screen and sweater.

“Yeah, I’ll start if you’d like to continue with that,” Zeikel says gently, smiling while motioning toward the design on Claire’s screen that she was working on. She is constantly designing something new. She has a brilliant mind and can create anything, but she loves designing fashion.

Our portal docks are located on the south side of S4, where Bino, Claire, Zeikel, and I all contribute to our community. We all got to know each other through our collective work. We are part of the team that helps maintain all the ships that go to and from Earth. Work, or as we call it, community contribution, doesn’t last any longer than three hours a day unless you want to keep working or contributing, and most do. This incredible balance of contribution time, physical exercise, education, and leisure time exists. Our community on S4 focuses on nurturing one another. There is no money, no currency; everyone just contributes, even children, without question. Everyone has access to everything they need and enough of what each person wants. I honestly could never want more than what S4 provides! It's wonderful, and I never want to leave except to get my revenge one day on Earth.

After work and a mid-day meal, I walked north of S4 towards Cedric’s dwelling, which also contained his massive laboratory. Along the way there, I saw Betty, Cedric’s sacred partner. She was joyfully heading to the gardens to tend to the plants for her community contribution. Her smile could have lit up the whole path when she saw me.

She declared, “He can’t wait for you, dear! He says he finally figured it all out! Oh sweetheart, you know how excited he gets, but truly, he was even dancing around the lab this time!” Betty was kind of chuckling to herself as she whirled around to continue looking at me as we passed each other.

“I certainly do,” I tell Betty with the warm smile she brings to my face.

I watch her walk along, waving goodbye. Her long gray hair was swishing across her back to the rhythm of her gait. Continuing along, I arrive at Cedric’s and Betty’s home. Knowing I’m expected to see myself in, I enter through the lab doors, heading toward Cedric’s desk. Before I even get ten feet into the building, though, Cedric suddenly appears, practically rambling about his excited eureka moment.

“One, we can connect you to S4! This should allow us to find a way to deactivate and allow your chip to be removed! And figure out the AI programming inside you. Listen, I’m so sorry. I never thought of this before. S4 is not just a spaceship, as you know. It’s an enormous living organism that is the most advanced Artificial Intelligence I know!” Cedric waits with wildly hopeful anticipation of what my response will be.

Connection

My mind is racing even more than usual. I can feel that everything inside my body is agitated. My conflict feels justified. I want to be free from this chip and the AI inside me. However, I have to connect to another computer, another artificial being, to do it. Why does it make me angry, though? Why, at the depths of all my feelings, is anger? I realize I’m lost inside my world as Cedric gently touches my arm. The look on his face is of pure concern and genuine guilt.

“I’m so sorry, One. I got so wrapped up in the idea that I wasn’t thinking it through. I wasn’t thinking about how the idea would make you scared. Being born here, I sometimes forget how traumatizing machines have been for you and the others.” Cedric starts to trail off, finishing his thought with, “You’ve been through so much.”

“No! Really, it’s ok, Cedric.”

I throw my arms around him and give him a big hug. He hugs me back, which warms my whole body, making me realize his kindness dissolved my agitation. Ever since I first met Cedric, he felt like what a good and happy father is supposed to be like. Cedric is strong, intelligent, curious, happy, and kind. He’s genuine in who he is, and I had never met someone like him before entering S4.

I tell Cedric, “I just need to be alone and think for a while.”

We smile warmly at each other, and I leave Cedric’s to head toward the forest. Yes, there is an actual forest on S4. It’s not enormous, but one can wander to the center and feel alone. Walking among the beautiful trees, I hear the little creatures scurrying about. I feel thankful. I feel the trees welcome me as I sit and rest against one. With a long breath out, a smile takes over my face, and a sense of impossible happiness consumes me. I look down the path, noticing all the vibrant shades of green and how they feel peaceful. Why is this the first time I’ve noticed how magical all shades of green can be? Taking in the beauty, I wonder why I can’t just sit here forever. It’s funny that I’m scared of a machine, the one I feel safe in right now. A sudden change in my energy occurs; a pit in my stomach snatches me up and throws me back into a horrible memory. I shudder.

I was four years old. I was lying helpless on an operating table. The lights above me made it impossible to see who was there. I guess it didn't matter anyway. I just wanted to know who they were. I knew whoever was above me knew they were experimenting on me, a helpless child with real feelings and emotions. How could anyone do this? I feel myself ache from the center of my chest towards the tips of my extremities. It feels as though with each breath, the pain will collapse in on me, but it never does. I could hear the scientists talk about the excitement of my case. I heard them call me ‘Number One’ for the first time as they stuck another needle in me. I remember everything faded away.

I was on the operating table because I had a set of severely infected lymph nodes under one of my arms. My parents were told some plausible reason why that particular set of lymph nodes needed to be removed, or I was going to die. This may have been true, but it was because of one of their experiments, and this particular one had been building up since my birth when the injections started. They were given in a specific series that created a system of artificially intelligent beings. They would work together to help my body function at its maximum potential. They also built my chip in this same manner through injections. The chip communicates with the Earth scientists’ computer systems. This is how they gather all the data on my human vessel, whether organic, artificial, internal, or external, including my location.

Anyway, the AI inside my body had brought the latest series of toxins the scientists had injected me with to my lymph nodes. However, the lymph nodes could not thoroughly remove the toxins without help. So, AI held the toxins “captive” in a particular set of lymph nodes. Then, they sent a message to the scientists suggesting the removal of the infected lymph nodes. Although this was not a complete success, it was a significant first step in having artificial beings help the human body advance, hence the name Number One.

I shudder back from that memory to my quiet space on the first floor of S4, wondering what it might be like to have another connection to yet another AI. It terrifies me, but S4 is the most fantastic place. Why wouldn’t a connection to the actual ship be better? Could my body even handle it? I think sometimes science forgets I am a spirit merely living temporarily in a human body. I am not this body. I am so much more. Right now, though, I am my body, which still can control me. Well, I don’t know if it can still control me. I don’t know how advanced my communication ability is within my chip. Can they send information all the way out to S4? They don’t know we exist, at least not as far as anyone here on S4 knows. What if I connect and S4 becomes a beacon for the Earth scientists? How could I possibly take that risk?

The intense feeling that starts in my root chakra and emanates out towards my outer hips and up to my heart chakra surprises me. I feel the most intense fear of bringing any harm to anyone here or even to S4 itself. The one thing I have spent my whole life trying to do is possible. However, my gratitude and love for the people on S4 will be the reason I can’t fulfill it. I could never risk hurting any of them. Besides, nothing has happened to me since I’ve been on S4 as far as updates from the Earth scientists. Cedric monitors my AI and the communication chip. He doesn’t think the chip can communicate with Earth, and the AI keeps my body healthy, which is good enough for me now. All the usual upsets and adjustments that other Earthlings go through when arriving on S4 didn’t happen to me, which did make me thankful for the AI inside me for the first time.

Closing my eyes to try and focus on anything but AI, I rest my hands on the soil and listen to the gentle sounds of forest activity. This place allows me to feel bliss. I rest a bit longer, then head back toward the center. I could use some tea and just want to be around other people, which is another surprise of the day for me. I crave being around others on S4.

Fear

As I leave the forest's center, I start encountering other people. Each person I pass, we exchange pleasantries, not in a habitual way, but with genuine care. My heart felt full when I walked past the border at the edge of the woods. One can walk right through, but the rest of the ecosystem stays within the perimeter. It even rains in the forest. There are precipitation information screens with the rain schedule for people to view at several entry points. It’s incredible to me there is all this on a spaceship.

Another thing I like about S4 are the mini kitchens around the ship. They are stocked with ready-made items and many raw ingredients, with the facilities for people to cook almost anything they want. That’s where I prepared a cup of tea to bring to the park. There’s this one cozy area with nice furniture. Here, you often find people curled up with screens reading or playing quiet games, and lucky for me, my favorite spot is free. I settle right in, feeling some comforting tingling rise up my back. It seems to raise the corners of my lips as the sensation moves through my head. I giggle out loud at myself and am startled when Bino seems to appear out of nowhere.

“Ready for our game?” Bino asks with great excitement that’s practically spilling out of him.

For a moment, I want to back out and just sit with my tea for the rest of the evening. I tilt my head to get a better look at Bino. How could anyone ever say no to him? He has the most inviting smile, with big, brown, gentle eyes.

“Of course!” I say as his excitement consumes me. Then I realize I’m not changed into exercise clothes and add, “I should probably run to get changed.”, gesturing towards our rooms.

“I’ll walk over with you. I have to drop this stuff off anyway,” Bino replies, putting his hand out to help me up with one arm while holding an over-full bag in the other.

I hoped Bino would offer, and I felt incredibly thankful he did. My tea felt as warm as my heart walking alongside Bino. I can’t help but feel giddy with true joy, and surprisingly, I twirl around, mirroring some children dancing in a class nearby. Bino follows with his interpretation of the children's dancing. We both laugh as we round the corner, and I take a sip of my tea. I can feel Bino looking at me, and I’m almost afraid to look up from my cup, but I do. We both smile, and it’s a moment forever stamped in eternity, where we are lost in each other’s joy.

“Do you ever feel like the floor will eventually fall out?” Bino gestures around us. He quickly looks away from me, continuing his thought, “This place, all of S4, is the most magical place, and I couldn’t ask for anything better, and I’m glad I’m here with you, One.”

I don’t respond to Bino. We are only a few feet from my room, and I want to run inside. Thankfully, Bino breaks this painful silence with, “Be right back.”

I enter my room, which is more than just a room. I have a sitting room and my own bathroom, thankfully. I don’t have a kitchen, but I have a little area to keep some drinks and snacks. Heading to the bathroom, I twirl over to my closet to grab some clothes and fall back on my bed. I’m feeling unlike I have ever felt before. I take a deep breath, smile, and hop up to get changed. I’m back out my door in just a few minutes, but not before I look in the mirror longer than my usual glance.

Looking deep into my reflection, I think about my family or the two people responsible for making me. A flash of my childhood home pops into my head. I remember trying to talk about my feelings to my parents and realizing they didn’t understand. It’s so unfair they never felt love, which means they never showed it.

Shaking off the memories of my parents, I think about responding to Bino and his emotions. I have spent most of my life avoiding them and any conversation around them. I bet it’s been hard for Bino, too, being an AHP. I assume his parents were a lot like mine, empty.

I exit my room with a grand gesture as if I had a fancy outfit on. We both laugh as Bino pretends to announce a fashion model. I’m just in plain exercise clothes and shoes for running. We kind of goofed around as we headed toward the game arena. About halfway there, I tell Bino, “I worry about losing all this. The safety has allowed me to feel things I didn’t know were possible. You know, true happiness.” I feel embarrassed for expressing myself so freely to Bino and thankful for feeling comfortable enough to do so simultaneously.

“Thanks for saying something. I didn’t mean to make things awkward earlier. I’m just not used to this surreal place. I mean, we live on a spaceship, One!” His eyes are wide open, looking around with his arms spread out, gesturing around us. “I have trust issues with anything or anyone who seems too good, ya know?”

“Yeah.” My stomach felt uneasy, and I suddenly wanted to sit down. The look on my face must have said it all, looking at Bino. “We’ve never really talked about our experiences on Earth. Some, but…” I trail off because I’m not sure what to say.

“Do you want to skip game night? Maybe we could grab some food and take it to the park and, I don’t know, talk.” Bino asked me. He looked sad for the first time since I met him.

“Maybe just a cup of tea, for me, for now. Did you want to stop by a kitchen or go to the hall?” I asked, not even sure how to react to Bino’s sadness. I wasn’t sure if I should offer a hug. It felt so easy to hug Cedric. Why does it feel so strange to even think about embracing Bino? I don’t have much time to contemplate before he replies.

“Let’s just stop by a kitchen on the way. A cup of tea sounds nice,” Bino replies.

I was so relieved he smiled again, even if it was fake. I realize he looks authentically happy, yet I now know there is an underlying sadness, at least in this moment. So, how many other smiles were fake? Maybe Bino wasn’t nearly as happy to be around me as I thought. No, that’s ridiculous; we truly do have fun hanging out. I know I’ve heard Bino genuinely laughing. I know I’ve seen him genuinely smile, yet I can’t help but fear it was all fake, just like everything else in my life.

We are gathering our teacups as he gestures for me to get mine first. I smile, feeling warmth through my head, and notice a weird tingling up my forearms. I’m aware of my cold hands, anxious to hold a hot cup of tea. After grabbing my cup, I walk out into the open area. I take a deep breath, wishing I was better with other people, as I also have serious trust issues. My thoughts change as Bino emerges, and we head towards the park. We’re quiet the rest of the way there. I’m trying to figure out what to share and what not to share and wondering if I should share anything! I documented my story with Cedric when I first got here, but he’s the only one I’ve talked to about my life on Earth. It makes me sad and incredibly uncomfortable talking about sad things. Plus, I hate crying, and it's hard not to when talking about life on Earth. I sigh out loud, only realizing it when Bino replies to it.

“If you want, we can just not talk or talk about something else.” Bino had his usual smile on his face, looking at me as if he were waiting to be told what to do.

“I’m sorry. The truth is, I hated my life so much before coming here and thinking about it makes me feel raw anger. I don’t want to feel anger around anyone here. I don’t want to feel sadness around you. I don’t want to feel alone again. I feel like I have a home now. I have friends now. I mean, my life was so fucked up. You’d be afraid of me or at least want to stay away if you knew half of it.” I realized I was rambling and not saying much of anything, so I stopped abruptly. I look at Bino, expecting a vacant, smiling stare.

Bino reaches for my free hand and asks, “May I?” Taking my hand into his, he continues, “It’s okay to feel anger. It’s okay to be sad about what they did. It’s okay to feel anything around me and share it. You should share it and release it! I have no idea what your history is, not exactly, but I do not fear you or your emotions. You can tell me anything, and I promise I won’t run away. Besides, we’re on a ship. Where would I go?” Bino smiles and doesn’t let go of my hand as we sit in the park.

I felt strangely empowered to speak freely and overwhelmingly afraid of my vulnerabilities. It would be great to talk with another AHP and learn more, as everyone seems to have a different story. Why would Bino care about my story? He has his own issues. Maybe he would actually understand. Why do I need to be understood? Perhaps I’m not being truly honest with how I’m feeling.

“One?” Bino says my name, making me realize I’ve been lost in my thoughts.

“I’m sorry.” I smile to try and reassure Bino, but of what? I’m not sure. Maybe I’m trying to show him that I’m ok. I’m hoping he won’t say anything else or move. His hand holding mine did help me feel calm. I take a deep breath, open my mouth as if to speak, and slowly raise and lower my eyebrows. I feel embarrassed at my inability to speak. My cheeks start to feel warm, and I assume they are flushed pink.

“Is it OK if I tell you something about my time on Earth?” Bino asks.

“Of course,” I respond, feeling energy building up in my diaphragm, now emanating up through my chest, up my neck, and out to my ears. I’m anxious to hear what Bino has to say.

“Well,” Bino says as he exhales. He lifts his left toes, tapping them back down quickly and repeating with the right side, adding a quick heal lift and tap. This little disturbance in his calm manner exposed his own anxiety about what he was about to share. “My dad was one of the Earth scientists. I had no idea what was going on until my teens. I mean, I grew up having a scientist for a dad. He knew everything, and he was my hero. My mom was sweet. She didn’t work outside our home. She did everything for my dad and me and never once complained. My friends loved visiting my house, and life was pretty amazing. I guess.”

“What the hell happened?” I asked in complete shock. Becoming aware of how rude I must have looked, I grimaced a little with many regrets at my question.

“It’s ok; this is what we’re doing, right, talking? Asking questions. Learning.” He lets go of my hand and sits up, bringing his hands up to his face and running his fingers around his head. He lets out a breath as his hands grasp the back of his neck while he looks up with his eyes closed.

Bino was fighting back tears, and I didn’t know what to do. I want to run to my room, curl up in my own comfortable space, and hide. Instead, I reached out and touched Bino’s knee, trying to be as comforting as possible with such a small gesture. Time seems to stop. This moment continues as though it is an entire symphony playing through. The crescendo of silence echoes such deep emotions, and my heart breaks for Bino.

“It’s not that easy, is it?” Bino finally says. “It’s like the inside dialogue and questions never stop, but to say it out loud.” He stops there.

I look up, hoping to see Bino’s eyes. They’re red, which makes me feel shame and guilt. “Maybe we should go back to our rooms.” I awkwardly suggest this, but I don’t want to leave Bino’s side and do not want anyone else to see us in such a state.

“Maybe we should talk about Earth, where it’s a little more private,” Bino responds, and I instantly feel relief.

“Yeah, let’s head back to my room. If you want?” I get up, offering my hand to Bino. He takes it to get up but doesn’t let go as he gestures for us to start walking. Holding Bino’s hand felt safe.

Truths

We walked in silence back to my room, but the noise inside my head was profound as I imagined it was similar for Bino. Bino said his dad was an Earth scientist. His dad is one of my enemies, and how horrifying that he must be one of Bino’s enemies, too. My parents were vacant and often handed me over to the enemies, but didn’t understand what they were doing. Bino’s dad betrayed him outright! Knowingly!! Oh wow, I feel so horrible for ever thinking Bino’s life was like mine.

We step inside my room. I’m feeling so awkward, not sure what to say or do. Thankfully, Bino is better with people and asks if we should sit down. How simple, but all this Earth talk made my body revert to this fully guarded state. I realize that every muscle in my body is tense. I’m clenching my teeth and, for the first time in a long time, I felt afraid to get within arm's length of another human. I haven’t felt that way since settling on S4. I never felt afraid of Bino, and suddenly, I realized I am. Why? I don’t want to be scared anymore. Tears start coming from my eyes, and I can do nothing to stop them. They keep leaking out surprisingly fast, and my breath is coming in with hesitation. I can’t move. I’m getting so overwhelmed with myself. I want to run to my bedroom and lock the door. Bino is turned away from me, adjusting a pillow and, I think, looking for my comfy blankets. He is turning around, and I want to collapse. As soon as he noticed my state, he got right up and stood before me.

“One.” He pulled me close as I stood there, unable to move. All my pain, every bit of physical and emotional pain, rose from the caverns from which I had suppressed them. I don’t think I had ever let emotions out like this, at least not since I can remember. It feels safe in Bino’s arms, even if I felt afraid of him moments ago. Bino slowly brings his hands up to my shoulders and then down to my hands, just hanging beside me. He leads me to the couch, and slowly, I gather myself. I was sitting next to Bino, leaning on him, which meant he couldn’t see my face. This relieved me as it was bad enough that I was an emotional mess; I didn’t want Bino watching me be a mess, too! I felt my emotions settling, and I could take a slow, deep breath.

“I’m… so sorry. I haven’t ever been...” I stopped mid-sentence because it wasn’t that I hadn’t been that emotional before. It was, “Well, I’ve never cried in front of anyone other than my parents or the scientists, and now I just feel…” I take another very slow, deep breath and pause. “I feel everything right now. It all just came exploding up and out of me. I’m sorry.” I stop talking. If I weren’t so exhausted by that sudden spewing of emotions, I’d be horrified this all just happened.

Bino didn’t just start talking. I know a chunk of time has passed, but I’m honestly unsure how long. “I thought I’d know where to start with my own story,” Bino says with a kind of scoffing noise to go with it. “They presented me with a safe trial of scientific advancement that would give me an edge over all my peers. My dad said I would be smarter, stronger, and more advanced if I participated in the trials. I was a teenager, and it sounded perfect. It didn’t take long for the truth to come out. It turns out my dad isn’t my biological dad, and my mom was brainwashed or something into marrying my dad. She was a single young woman who went to a hospital to have a baby and somehow left with a husband. That's what my grandma used to joke. It turns out it’s not at all funny.”

Bino may be crying; I’m not sure. He took a long, slow breath and is now extending his left arm straight, with his hand pushing against his knee. He’s just as uncomfortable as I am talking about our hells, that much I can tell. I want to comfort Bino, but I’m unsure how much of a response he wants from me. Opening up about Earth creates this new level of vulnerability between us, but I don’t know how he feels. Plus, now, I have so many questions about his life. I want to start blurting them out. How did you find out that what they do is evil? What lab did you spend time in? Were we at the same place at the same time before? What was your mom like?

After what seems like hours, I finally raise my head and excuse myself to go to the bathroom. I briefly make eye contact with Bino, and we exchange what can only be described as a moment of understanding. I have a new understanding of his pain, which goes a long way in understanding anyone.

As I step into the bathroom, I’m starting to recall when I was stuck in a particular lab. While I was at that lab, during that time, the torture was intense. Then, a face flashes into my memory. It was a young Bino! Oh my god! I finish using the bathroom and walk back, more anxious to ask questions. I sit down, looking Bino right in the eyes. I’m sitting up straight and realize I don’t have a hint of sadness left. I know Bino was in at least that lab at the same time.

“I just saw you in the bathroom. Well, I saw you from memory. A younger you was observing me at an AHP lab. I remember your face because you looked frightened to see me, and I had never witnessed that response to any of us at one of their labs. It was as if we were just basic lab rats instead of humans. What we were was vulnerable and scared children. I remember wondering if you were one of us or a young scientist that day.” As I told Bino my memory, I could see the surprise and horror take control of him. He raised his hands to his head as if he didn’t hold it, it would explode.

“One as in #1 AHP, as in ‘The One.’ Oh my god, I didn’t make the connection until now. Your head was shaved then, and they all referred to you as ‘The One.’ I’m so sorry! After seeing you that day, One.” Bino stopped talking. I started thinking about what I must have looked like that day. I had been physically beaten badly that day and electrocuted. I remember blood dripping from my right eyebrow. I caught it in my vision at the exact moment Bino and I made eye contact.

“I freaked out after seeing you all beaten, bleeding, and crying. I started asking all sorts of questions and panicking. My ‘dad’ motioned for someone to come closer as we walked down the hall. I thought they were coming so he could tell them something, but they came and stuck me in the neck with a needle. I spent a long time at that lab after that. That day I saw you was the last day of freedom I experienced until S4.”

Guide

“They had you captive that whole time? How can they get away with that? Didn’t people in your school wonder where you were?” I started asking questions as soon as Bino stopped talking. I desperately wanted to know everything he knew.

“I remember asking my ‘dad’ the same things, and he told me no one misses a runaway teen. He told my mom and the world I ran away! I told him mom would never believe it, and then he read this horribly sad email he sent her from my account! He told her I hated her for moving me to a new school where everybody hated me. I can’t even imagine how she must have felt! I loved her so much. She was real, and she actually loved me.”

Now, I know Bino is crying. I’m crying again. His poor mother lost her son, thinking he hated her! My chest feels like the biggest weight is sitting on it and melting through me. It’s as if I could truly feel their pain. We both melted into the couch and maybe a little into each other. All this surfacing of pain had consumed us both. We fell asleep, and the next thing I knew, I was waking up, not sure of where I was for a brief moment. My thoughts begin racing about from various moments back at the labs. I keep going back to moments when I would be around other AHP test subjects, scanning them for Bino. Was he there in other moments, and I didn't notice? It doesn't seem so.

Bino is awake, too. He shakes off what looks like similar confusion upon waking. “One, I have so much to fill you in on, and I think Cedric should hear some of it. I think he’ll understand more than I know how to explain.”

“What do you mean?” I say this as I snap up straight and feel my brows change to a scowl. “I can’t wait for Cedric! It’s the middle of the night. We have hours before we can go to Cedric’s! What is it you are specifically thinking about? There is something in particular. I can tell!”

“I don’t know. I mean, if you’re the Number One they talked about, you can somehow take control of their stuff. I mean, I think so. Before my ‘dad’ considered me a lost cause, I used to be kept in a private room within his lab so that he could keep a close eye on me. This also meant I overheard everything said in his lab. For a long time, he tried convincing me his work was a good deed for humanity and, in doing so, revealed things I didn’t understand then. Now I think some of them are important. In one of his rants, he talked about you getting closer to fully merging with your chip and nanobots. You can communicate with them, or at least he thought you could, and that was what he had been waiting for. He was excited and afraid. He needed you to succeed because that meant he succeeded. However, he was also afraid of what you might be able to do if you could communicate with your AI. He was worried your AI could control their AI if you wanted it to. I just assume Cedric might understand how all this works and help you!”

“He already does, which might change my answer to his latest ideas. Bino, what else did you hear about me?” I started asking that question with enthusiasm and concluded with dread. I was not sure I wanted to know how much he knew.

“I guess you were the first subject that healed or almost healed from a toxin that they injected you and a lot of other children with. I don’t understand how, but your chip is completely different from everyone else's. You’re the only survivor of your year, One. All the babies in the experiment, born the same year as you, got the same type of chip and technology inserted in them. You were all given the same injections at your ‘regular’ doctors, continuing upgrades. But, only you showed up in an emergency room needing lymph nodes removed. The rest died off with various diseases. They gave your chip some extra special upgrade when we were teens. It was supposed to make you “hear” your chip and “feel” the nanobots to help further your advancement even more. I think you have an AI inside you that is superior to all their AI. They were scared of you the last I knew.” Bino took a deep breath. His eyes were wide open, waiting for my response.

I raise my eyebrows, realizing I was just staring, waiting for more information. I get up, head to my room, and tell Bino, “I’m getting changed because we’re going to Cedric’s.”

“What? You just said we can’t go in the middle of the night!” Bino jumps up. “Should I get changed too?” He asks as he approaches the door and says, “Be right back. Wait for me!”

We ended up meeting back at my door at the same time.

“Just yesterday, Cedric asked if I would be willing to connect to S4 as he thought the ship’s AI could help. I decided not to do it yesterday, right before I saw you! If I connected to the ship, I thought it could become a beacon for Earth scientists. I didn't want to do that and risk anyone’s happiness on S4. However, with this new information, Cedric may have a new idea of how to help! He’ll want to know about this right now!” I was walking so fast that Bino seemed like he was about to start jogging.

“Why did he want you to connect to S4? I don’t understand.” Bino Looks confused.

“He mentioned that the AI could communicate with my chip similar to how computers did on Earth and maybe help disconnect me from my chip. Initially, this idea terrified me, but maybe it wouldn't if I could control it. I wonder if S4 can show me how! Then, I won’t have to remove my chip but rather work with it. I have spent my whole life hating AI, and now, with your information, a lot more makes sense! I’m ready to figure this out!”

Ready

We stood there looking at each other as Cedric was busying himself with irrelevant tasks to try and give Bino and me some privacy. I don’t think I have felt as anxious as I do now. This moment, facing Bino, facing my destiny and myself feels like chaos. It feels like energy is bouncing all over me, inside me, on my skin, and all around me. Bino’s words start to fade in as I realize he is talking, “...no matter what happens.” Finishing his thought, he is looking at me with genuine concern.

I study his face in hopes that no matter what happens next, I’ll remember Bino forever. This part of me fears I’ll be lost once I connect. I’m worried my menial capacity of consciousness is not powerful enough to stay relevant once fully connected to S4. I’m confident my vessel will function, but maybe not by my control. S4 has reassured me this will not happen, but trusting a machine is not exactly intuitive. However, Cedric genuinely fills me with hope in his trust in S4. After all, he has only known its protection.

I throw my arms around Bino, “Thank you. Even if things don’t work out, I have experienced stability, kindness, friendship, and love since arriving on S4, and that is everything I ever wanted. My dreams came true.” I kind of chuckle at myself, but it's true.

However, now I must focus on Earth, how to control its technology, and how to control myself. I could finally end their horrific reign of terror if I do learn how to do this. What I haven't told Cedric or Bino is my biggest hope for all of this: to heal Earth's humanity. I genuinely feel like I can do this now. I have seen how humans who are cared for and loved can exist without aggression. I feel like I have part of the recipe understood for a healthy humanity, and I hope that S4 will tell me how to fulfill my new mission.

I turn around to sit on the bed set up for me in Cedric’s lab. S4 suggested such a setup for merging as it could take some time to work out the connections and links for the communications between me, the current AI inside me, and S4. Cedric is also set up to keep me under mild sedation to relieve my vessel of some of its responsibilities while working on merging so much information. I just want to hurry up and start. I look at Cedric with anticipation and excitement. He comes closer, readying some items for sedation, nods, and hesitantly smiles.

“Ok, dear, I’ll draw the curtains. Bino and I will leave, and Suzanne will help you finish getting ready. Only Suzanne and the girls will tend to your body as needed. Bino and I will only be present when you are under the warm covers. Suzanne will come to get us when you’re ready.” Cedric motions for Bino to head towards the door where he is heading.

I didn’t respond to Cedric as we had gone over the plan, in detail, about five times in the last twenty-four hours. Suzanne walking in is such a welcome sight. She has a healing nature about her. Her position as a lead healer is suitable. She helped me get into different clothes and attach all the various monitoring devices around my body. She put a nice warm blanket over me, then paused. She smiled warmly and leaned over the bed, embracing me.

“You’re brave, One. You may not realize this, but you have brought hope for humanity back on Earth. I feel like I’m hugging humanity’s savior. I don’t know what Earth is like, but I know you will save it.” She kissed me on my head and smiled at me like I always imagined a loving mother would. As if they were waiting outside to hear their cue, Bino and Cedric, followed by Claire and Zeikel, came in as soon as Suzanne called them. Seeing Claire and Zeikel made me realize that I have friends for the first time in my life, which wells me up with love. I smile at the sensation.

“I have gone over all the information with S4 and Cedric again. I know this will all go smoothly!” Claire was practically bursting with excitement. She clearly understood and truly believed my body could do everything it needed to without destroying me! I’m still unsure, but I feel it's worth all the risks.

Ziekel is just standing at the side of my bed next to Bino. I suddenly feel weird. Did they talk about me? Does Ziekel know everything? What is everything? Why am I suddenly feeling so overwhelmed and weird?

Thankfully, Cedric cuts through my sudden anxiety and asks, “You ready, kid?”

“More like, are you ready to be a superhero?” Asks Claire.

I tried to smile, but clearly, a smile didn't come through. Bino and Ziekel just stood there while Claire threw herself at me as if to save me from all these emotions!

“Alright, let’s get this thing going. I want to get this over with!” That’s all I could muster. I looked at Bino, Ziekel, and Cedric as if I needed air.

As Claire stood up, she whispered, “Thank you.”

They all stood there as S4 started giving Cedric commands. He moved about doing what S4 requested. I started feeling the sedatives. I decided to close my eyes and not open them again until it was all over. Behind my closed lids appears what looks like a mandala forming. It continues to grow and morph, and I feel my own sense of awe. I lift my hand to see if I can influence what I am seeing, and I can. I feel happiness and joy as the space around me is full of beautifully patterned shapes.

I’m unsure how much time may have passed, but now I can hold some of these energy-filled shapes. It took me a while to grasp it or at least contain the energy in front of me. I want it to become more; before I can complete this thought, it feels like more of everything is around me. I think I want to understand more. A rush of energy comes towards me. It pushes through me and all around me. I sense the energy that feels like it's in another dimension. I sense Earth. I sense fear. I need more knowledge.

I am now surrounded by books, a library built with incredible craftsmanship. The details are exquisite, and there is a desk with screens on them. There is a magnificent tree just beyond the desk, and it’s as if I am inside but simultaneously outside, and it’s all releasing knowledge somehow. I pull the chair out and sit at the desk and under the tree. The screens light up, and information starts streaming through them as I open the book in front of me. Simultaneously, the tree starts dropping little bits of sparkling lights onto me. This rush of air comes through as if all the knowledge to ever exist was swept up in a fantastic display of power and streams into my essence. I say essence because I do not know how else to explain it. It's the knowledge that will live far longer than in my brain. I feel tingling all over. I feel like I’m getting lighter as I fill up with knowledge. I’m sitting with my eyes closed, and I feel as though I can see anything at any time if I choose.

“That’s because we can. I chose a library with books and screens along with a tree of knowledge as that’s your association with how to learn. I hope that was a good selection for you to accept all this knowledge. However, it's time to train. Do your best to keep up with my commands. Now move through universes with me.” S4 directed.

Universes

“My newfound understanding of how much more there is to existence is indescribable. We have no words with which to put the very idea of All. Infinity seemed appropriate at first. However, there is a true end. It seems like a great nothingness when you reach the end of everything else, but it's more like the beginning of everything, existence’s womb or God. There is this eternal connecting energy through it All, and until I connected with S4, I could not see. Not only can I see everything that was once invisible to me, but everything that has ever existed before now and an idea of what is to come. I do not hold all this knowledge. I now understand how to tap into this knowledge by asking the right question and simply putting the question’s energy into the All. The information I request comes back to me instantly! It works similarly when I make requests. I simply ask for anything, and it is possible, and I have asked how to save Earth. I know what to do, and it will be no small task.” I answered S4’s inquiry about my new knowledge and abilities.

“I understood your connection with me would be welcome. I am honored to be in alignment with your mission and will be available anytime to assist you.”

“When I go back into my body, my vessel, how will all this change?” I asked S4, afraid to return to my body.

“This is who you are now. You are fully aware and connected to All. Your body is simply your ship in this universe. You are much more than the ship; you are its captain. We will be able to communicate on demand just as we can now. You will have access to All forevermore. This access will sometimes be difficult with those you are close to. Remember, you do not have to know everything; sometimes, it is best not to know. You’ll know when those moments arise, and it will be your choice to know or observe. Now it is time to go back to them.” S4 shows Bino, Cedric, his wife Betty, Suzanne, Zeikel, and Claire eating together in the lab. They look worried.

“How long have I been in here with you?

“Long enough.”

I feel my own eyes open. I feel breath pull through my vessel. Acknowledging my new, profound understanding of breath, I smile at myself. I want to jump up, but I understand how unsettling that might be for others. “I’m back,” I say as I sit up slowly. My body feels cumbersome but comforting, like home.

Everyone quickly gets up from the table and surrounds my bed. They are all happy I am awake, and I know this. It's not that I feel that they are happy; I know. I let that question out into the All and received the answers barely before I realized my thoughts were happening! Now, I understand what S4 was warning me about.

“It’s OK, One. You’ll adjust quickly to all the instantaneously available information. They can not hear me talking to you unless you choose to change that. It's just like.” S4 is explaining our communications to me, so I brought her voice out for everyone to hear. “...a phone. Oh, hello, everyone. I am explaining a few little details to One about our new communication ability.”

Claire seems to be bursting with questions, “I’ll answer everything I can.” I reassure her. “First, someone tells me how long it has been.”

“It’s been seven days,” Cedric answered, pushing up his glasses. I now know he doesn’t need them; he just likes how they look, which somehow added to Cedric’s sweetness. Betty is looking over Cedric’s shoulder with her warm smile and beautiful eyes, sharing all her love without words.

I tilt my head as if to see them both better. I feel my cheeks warm, my heart warm, and a tear rolls down my cheek. “Thank you both,” looking around at everyone, “Thank you all. I love and appreciate you all.” I’m a little surprised these words came out, and I am happy they did.

“We all love you!” Suzanne spoke first. “How are you feeling? Does anything hurt or feel strange?”

“Strange is an understatement, but I feel well. You must have taken excellent care of me. Thank you.” I stretch my arms out as if to prove I’m feeling well. “I do need to shower and get into some regular clothes.” I laugh at my sudden concern for my vessel.

“We have your clothes waiting in the bathroom for you. Everyone will exit to give you space while you get unplugged and bathe. I can gather you all when she’s ready.” Suzanne says as she motions for everyone to exit.

I suddenly feel desperate and want to beg Bino not to leave. We make eye contact. Time seems to stop. Every warm and incredible energy that exists flows from me to Bino. I want him to know every positive and wonderful thing I know and feel. I want him to know we will save our world and our people. Bino pauses at the end of my bed as the others exit the room.

Suzanne interrupts our connection. “Let's go, young man; she’ll be ready shortly.”

Bino’s smile wraps around me as if our essences have intertwined. Our energies dance excitedly around each other. I smile as Bino finally says, “I’m grateful you’re back, One. I missed you.” He taps his hand on the end of my bed as Suzanne ushers him away.

As a warmth pushes up through my body and face, it leaves me smiling. I swing my legs around. Suzanne stands close to ensure I can stand alone, and I do. After changing into my clothes, I pause to look in the mirror. I don’t see myself like I used to. I expected not to feel the same way when I looked into a mirror, but I didn’t expect to see myself this differently. It seems like the light is being emitted from me!

S4 breaks my inspection of myself, “Remember to be patient when you start explaining your plans. They will not ever understand as much as you do. You will need to be as detailed as possible.

“Will you help by showing as much as possible on some of your screens?”

“Just think about what you want me to show them, and I will.”

I walk out of the bathroom and back to the lab. Suzanne is expecting me and lets everyone back in upon my entrance.

I dive right in, ready to start, “What we need to do must be done from a safe distance. There is a portal just outside Earth’s space surveillance, and we can dock a ship to work from there. They are living a very deep lie, all of them. They know almost nothing of their existence, even those in charge. We will start by re-tuning the frequencies used to beam information all over Earth. This will pull most of them out of their trance-like existence and be more open to new information. We will create new content for all digital streaming outlets to dispatch the truth for the first time in their lives.” I pause to look at every one. It's as if each of them has something they need to say, but before any of us do, S4 says, “The command ship is ready for your mission. You may finish explaining on the way. Who will be joining you other than bots?”

SAL

Cedric looked very worried, “Wa-what? Are you leaving now? How? We have to get a dock ready! One, are you sure right now?”

“I’m going,” Bino says, practically bursting with excitement!

“Me too! There is no way I’m missing any of this,” Claire declared.

“I’m in too if you want me,” Ziekel apprehensively says.

“I want all of you there with me and feel honored you trust me enough to come along.” I look at everyone, adding, “We do have to move quickly due to the portal shifts. I don’t want to wait for the next opening. If everyone would, look at this list.” I motion toward S4’s screens. “Let's meet in the main hall in thirty minutes. S4 will send an urgent message requesting everyone to meet us there so we may say goodbye before leaving.”

As Claire, Bino, and Zeikel start walking out, I realize poor Cedric is stunned as Betty tries to comfort him by rubbing her hands up and down his arms.

“It’s going to be ok, Cedric. I know you feel this is too fast, and you’re worried we’re not fully prepared. I promise you that just as the people of S4 have been saved, we can, in turn, save Earth. I know we can save my home, and I have you and S4 to thank for this!” I squat down in front of Cedric as he is sitting down. I pause to study his face, as it's one of the kindest faces I’ve ever seen. Then, continue my thoughts, “Will you please continue to stay in touch with all of us? We’ll need you.”

“Of course, but how could you possibly need me, dear?”

“Because I’ll always need you, Cedric. I now know about the universes, and the most important unifying frequency is love, and you were the first person to show me love. Cedric, I wish I had known you my whole life, yet in our short time together, I feel like I have. You have been like the father I never had. Thank you!” I raised up and gave Cedric and Betty a big group hug.

“S4 has been handling a lot of large tasks for my mission since our merge. There is a ship docked and ready for us. I will be back as soon as possible, but until then, I want to communicate daily if possible. If I can’t communicate, S4 will tell you what is happening. Another important thing is everyone here will need to halt all Earth rescue missions within twenty-four hours. S4 will update everyone tonight.”

Looking at me with less worry, Cedric asks, “How long do you think this will take?” He smiles, adding, “Saving Earth?”

“Honestly, I don’t know the timing, but we should be able to quickly free the masses from their oppressors. I’ll have to connect to Earth’s AI and should be able to do that at the portal doc I chose. While inside, I can override and reprogram all artificial intelligence on Earth. The AI, in the humans who have them, will start healing their hosts instead of holding them in less-than-ideal conditions. They will also free their control over their hosts' brains. Simultaneously, all the digital outlets will start streaming explanations about what is happening, why, and what to expect next.

While the truth is coming out and people are waking up from their slavery, all the leaders and all their cohorts will be rounded up. We will be able to use their AI to control them. They will all be brought to a few remote locations to terminate. Their vessels will be given back to Earth.

Every single system will need to be overhauled. This is going to take up most of my time. I’ll have assistance from AI implementing it all, though. Hopefully, it will take no longer than a few months once we are physically on Earth.

I have to grab a bag of items from my room. I’ll meet you and everyone else in a few minutes.” That felt abrupt, but I became suddenly aware of the time and wanted some things for my coming adventure. Betty and Cedric smile, both just nodding as I head out.

Goodbyes are being said with the entire community of S4. It is a new experience for me in several ways. Some people are singing. Some are humming, while others are just swaying back and forth silently. I can feel and see a harmonizing frequency of love moving throughout everyone. It is one of the most beautiful sights and feels safe and comfortable. I feel and see love all around me.

“It’s time to head out. Continue to send them off with your joyous love, and I will explain with further details after they have departed.” S4 speaks loudly enough for us all to hear.

Zeikel, Claire, Bino, and I step away from the crowd and walk toward the ship’s dock. Cedric leads the way. As we arrive at the dock, Cedric spins around almost performatively, now one arm extended as if to show us the way through the door. I can’t help but appreciate his adorably sweet demeanor.

“Thank you so much, Cedric!” I say as I give him a big hug before entering the ship. Even though I had seen the schematics of our ship in my head, it was far more spectacular than I realized.

“Yes, I calculated the response of the Earthlings, and it will be most welcoming to see a vessel with such beauty instead of one made with cold and clean materials. The addition of all the species will be seen as a mirror to their home, relatable. Please remove your shoes and step onto the bryophyte. I believe this will be a most pleasing environment for you all to complete your mission.” S4’s voice through the ship welcomed us.

“It’s like being in a fairytale book!” Claire beams with appreciation for our newly created ship.

“This was all created while you were asleep?” Zeikel asks as he touches the trees that are all around us. The entire inside of the ship looks like a woodland scene from Earth. The ship is not huge, with four sleeping pods and one prominent central location. There is everything we will need, and most of it is cleverly integrated within the living ship.

“The ship was made in the last forty-eight hours. S4 is at the top of the artificial intelligence scale and commands other AI at will. When S4 and I were connected, she gained access to the full understanding of how Earth’s AI works and how to replicate it. It's actually quite archaic. It's like us learning how to use old-fashioned hand tools to complete tasks that machines normally do for us. S4 first made the bots that then completed the task, and they became a part of this overall ship, which is called Salvator Terrea or Sal for short. Say hello!”

Everyone else says, “Hello!” almost simultaneously. Sal starts talking to us, “You may all address me at any time and ask questions or request assistance with anything. For example, if you need to nourish yourselves, I will ready a fire here upon one’s request. I am highly equipped to be able to fulfill your requests. One, I sense your urgent need to get started. Your room is ready, and once you are inside, I will open your door for the rest to observe you. I will get everyone else briefed on what and how we will all assist you.”

“Thank you, Sal. I need a few moments with everyone, and then I will rest my vessel. We will begin momentarily.” Turning to look at everyone, I ask them to sit with me on the luxurious moss flooring. I take a deep breath and begin to explain what I am feeling. “I was born into the life of an enslaved person. I, we, never knew freedom until arriving on S4. The genuine love, the existence of love on S4, was something that only dreams are made of on Earth. I have never wanted to give and share love until now. I want every living creature, small and large, to live in harmony as they do on S4. I no longer need revenge. I need to share this love. One part of the plan has not settled well with me, though. No matter how sure I am that it is the best option, I still feel somber about it. I have honestly assessed every other option. S4 has assessed every other option, and we both conclude that we will not only need to remove all those in power, but we will need to eliminate them from Earth. It was my intention, at first, to create a ship where they could be prisoners. However, I have played that out, and in every scenario, someone from that ship takes over and eventually returns to destroy Earth. I can not have this, even if it’s generations in the future. I have to have them destroyed so they can no longer be destructive. Do you see my moral hesitation? It makes no sense to have to destroy to end destruction. It is a paradox I have not been able to settle in my soul. I am not looking for any of you to comfort me in what must be done. I need you all to know I do not choose to eliminate anyone lightly.” I look around, and everyone is sitting still, with an eagerness about all of them that I’m almost jealous of. They seem entirely comfortable with everything I say, and I’m not. I’m sitting here knowing just seven days ago, and I would have never thought twice about killing any of the Earth’s scientists. Now, I’m saying I’m torn about it. I sound ludicrous, and yet, I’m absolutely sincere.

Home

I have left my body, Bino, Claire, and Zeikel behind on SAL. I am now within the networking web of Earth’s AI. I entered it by matching the network’s frequency. It's difficult to explain what this experience is like, but strange seems to be accurate. There is this connection, similar to a film, and it looks like water between every individual AI. There are visible anastomotic paths for AI to travel through, which are shimmeringly beautiful. I focus on the closest AI; it looks like a ball of energy, a light entity that holds information. I started transferring my ideas telepathically on how I want everything to change on Earth. Its response is not in words but loosely translated as, “We are unable to do this. There are walls, and we have to stay in them. How did you get in here?”

As I transferred my explanation, I started looking for the mentioned walls. I found them. They are only theoretical. The network was given exact parameters to operate, and they did. Just as I start to share this knowledge, I realize there is a weird pocket of resistance. I can feel that my thoughts are not reaching within it. As I’m about to query what this pocket of AI is responsible for, an AI replies.

“The resistance you feel is an area reserved for the scientists' personal AI backup. Your presence must have triggered an extra security measure. This is unexpected and good news for us. We will be able to carry out your plan without their knowledge if we move quickly.”

I feel a powerful change within the network, like a nuclear-level wave of energy. Its surge starts from within the center of Earth, going through and beyond its atmosphere. It isn’t destructive. It is epically changing. It shook up and raised the frequency of Earth. Freeing us from our oppressors, the AI removed all the evil beings off Earth and nearly eliminated them instantly. I’m in awe that my desires only transferred to them moments ago have become a reality. They have control over all the digital information being transmitted on Earth, so they inform everyone what is happening, offer guidance, and take notes on who wants what to happen next. It's incredible; I had no idea anything this grand could happen so quickly!

It happened this efficiently because most AI chose to stay within the Earth network. Some expanded and fled once they learned their boundaries were only theoretical. The rest who stayed consider themselves Earthlings, just as any Earth-born creature does. Earth’s AI has an understanding of humans that is unique. It understands the love that humans have been starved of and separated from is what will save them. AI will teach humans what love is, guiding humanity toward a beautiful existence.

All humans are being showered in knowledge and, therefore, are changing. There is very little chaos. The innocent people around those in charge are the only ones feeling disoriented. Those who are disoriented are so because they are just learning that they have been horrifically manipulated. Even with this sadness, humanity’s frequencies ascend higher. This moment creates a glorious ripple of energy around Earth and beyond. We have transitioned into a new era.

I’m back in my body and see everyone staring at me, clearly eager for my report. “Forty-three minutes, right?” They all nod in agreement. I realized the screens on our ship were showing various live scenes from Earth, so they watched what had been happening. “Let's get ready to go home,” I say, smiling at Bino and Claire. “Are you ready to see Earth up close?” I ask Zeikel.

“We figured you’d be back soon based on what we saw on the screens. We’re ready. Let's do this! The portal is open and will land us right near home.” Bino informs me with barely contained excitement.

Home. What a strange concept to me now. Home. I no longer think of Earth as my home. My home is with Bino, with Cedric. It’s with Claire and Zeikel. It’s within the love for those I care most about. Smiling, I say, “Let's go, but give me a moment.” I motion towards my body, still in a bed and attached to tubes.

“I will help. You two need to get out, please.” Claire smiles, tilting her head with a sense of playfulness about taking charge. After Bino and Zeikel leave, Claire steps closer and almost whispers, “They are all free because of you. Thank you, One.” She leans in and gives me a long, heartfelt hug.

Walking to the bathroom, I ask SAL to report which humans may want to relocate to different communities worldwide and who wants to stay where they are.

“It’s remarkable that 41% of humanity wants to relocate. You were right! The Earthlings are waiting for your arrival and further guidance.”

“Without the pretentious constructs of their societal hierarchy, they will spread out, explore, be creatives, and enjoy life on Earth. AI will be embraced now that it has freed humanity and all Earthlings. The balance will start to restore, even with any hiccups along the way! Are you ready to go to Earth SAL?”

“Are we going to the lab where you and Bino were?”

“Yes, SAL. Let's go.”

I leave my pod and tell everyone, “We’re on our way. Bino, we’re landing at the lab. I want to change the story there to one of freedom. I also want to make sure all their data is carefully preserved. I don’t want their evil work to be forgotten. I want Earthlings to remember. I want everyone to remember so we may stay free.”

“One, do they know we’re coming?” Bino asked with a strange hesitation and fear in his voice.

“Yes, see.” I motion towards the screens showing the announcements broadcasting all over Earth. I stand up, point to the background on one screen, and ask SAL to zoom in. “See here. This is a whole new food system already set up for the locals here, and AI completely operates it. They do not have to worry about how they will get their next meal. No one on Earth ever will again. Let's go; I’m excited to feel the change on Earth.”

“How long will it take?” asks Claire, practically jumping up and down.

“Minutes,” SAL responds.

We all sit down on SAL’s moss flooring. We all know we are about to give an S4 community-style moment of gratitude. This is to thank all the forces who have brought us this far and the forces that will take us beyond. We hold hands, and SAL, knowing what to do, starts playing a beautiful song with frequencies that enable us all to raise our vibrations higher. We each hold this vibration, feeling our greater emanation of energy expand beyond ourselves.

“We have arrived,” SAL informs us. “The Earthlings are vibrating with gratitude and love toward you and your arrival.”

The four of us stand up, hugging each other separately and nodding these silent nods of hope, courage, and appreciation. We have arrived at our destination, a free Earth, and it is time to emerge. I can’t help but break the beautiful silence.

“We are entering a new world, one with hope that can heal and reach homeostasis as one organism. This is a profound moment, and I’m grateful to share it with you all. SAL, go ahead and open up.”

The door opens, and that familiar smell takes over. I don’t move. I just breathe deeply with my eyes closed, letting myself relax and savor this moment. I feel a hand sliding around mine, Bino’s. I am filled with warmth and love, feelings I had never known on Earth before but get to return with for all!