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Buck skillfully maneuvered the QC across the undulating expanse of uninhabited land, effortlessly conquering each rise and dip along the way. As he ascended a gentle slope, his eyes briefly shifted toward Theo, and he inquired with genuine concern. “Feeling fatigued?”
“I’m a computer!” Theo admonished, his voice tinged with frustration. “Computers don’t get tired. But….” The little electronic brain paused, whirring as it processed information. Then, with a bit of weariness in its electronic voice, it continued. “I will say that this is not much of a hill, but since it’s the fourth you’ve had to cross today, this car ride is beginning to exhaust my patience.”
Twiki squeaked in agreement, its small mechanical eyes blinking rapidly. It had been a long day for both of them, traversing one hill after another in their quest to reach——something. The constant uphill battle was taking its toll on their energy reserves.
“Don’t worry, Twiki,” Theo soothed his little robot attendant, his voice filled with reassurance. “I’m sure the land will level out on the other side.”
“I’m betting on another hill,” Buck said dryly, his voice laced with a hint of skepticism.
As the QC reached the crest of the hill, Theo’s artificial “eyes” flickered with excitement, registering a surge of data in response to what he saw on the other side. “You lose,” he said triumphantly, his voice tinged with a touch of mischief.
All the occupants of the Inner City QC gazed out through the transparent dome, their eyes scanning the vast plains that stretched before them. In the distance, not far away by their advanced technological standards, lay the remnants of a once-thriving city. The ruins stood as a haunting testament to humanity’s past glory and its subsequent downfall.
The city’s skeletal structures rose from the earth like ancient sentinels, their blue-gray hues blending seamlessly with the desolate landscape. Crumbling towers and dilapidated buildings stood as silent witnesses to a time long gone. Nature had begun to reclaim what man stole from her. The once bustling streets now lay empty and overgrown with weeds, as if the city had been swallowed whole by the relentless march of time.
A city of the ancient world, nestled within the vast expanse of Anarchia, served as a poignant reminder of Buck’s long-lost life. As he gripped the steering wheel of his QC, Buck could feel his anticipation building, struggling to contain his bubbling excitement. “Oh man,” he exclaimed with fervor. “I’ve spaced on what a righteous, honest-to-gosh city looks like!”
The QC hummed beneath him as he navigated through the remnants of this once-thriving metropolis. The sight before him was mind-blowing, man! Crumbling structures stood tall like groovy relics from a bygone era, whispering tales of a time when peace and order reigned supreme. Buck couldn't help but let out a low whistle, his eyes wide with awe.
"Far out!" he muttered to himself, unable to contain his amazement. "This place is like stepping into a time warp or something! It's trippy!"
Twiki emitted another high-pitched squeak, catching Buck's attention. "What did he say?" Buck inquired, turning to the Computer Councilor for an explanation.
"He says that it is just as we anticipated," Theopolis responded. Pausing momentarily, the robot conducted a thorough sensor sweep of the surrounding area outside QC. "It appears to be a vast expanse of rolling countryside," Theopolis concluded. "This terrain would provide ample protection against a hundred thermonuclear blasts."
Twiki gave off another squeak.
"Be careful, Buck," Theo warned, his electronic voice filled with a mix of curiosity and caution. "You don't know what you might find in this city," he warned.
Buck's grin widened as he absorbed Theo's words. "That's exactly why I'm excited, Theo! A city means people, and people mean civilization," he exclaimed, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. He felt like a child on Christmas morning, eager to unwrap the mysteries that lay ahead.
As they descended down the hill towards the city, Buck couldn't help but let his imagination run wild. "Just think about it, you guys," he mused aloud. "An advanced society that has managed to survive all these years....What wonders could they have achieved? What knowledge could they possibly have?"
He reached the city about an hour later, only to find out that the city was long dead, just like everything else in Anarchia. Here had been one of the greatest communities of the 20th century, a vibrant hub of life and commerce. Now, it was nothing more than a desolate wasteland, a haunting reminder of what once was. Buck's heart sank as he drove past an ancient, crumbling department store that served as a grim monument to a forgotten era.
The statues that once stood proudly as testaments to human artistry and achievement were now mere shadows of their former glory. Time's relentless grip had corroded these majestic figures beyond recognition. Their features eroded and weathered; they stood as haunting reminders of a civilization long lost.
Buildings that were once architectural marvels now stood as crumbling skeletons amidst the ruins. The passage of centuries had taken its toll on these structures, causing them to decay from within. Collapsing upon themselves like weary giants, they fell upon their neighboring edifices with a thunderous crash.
The smaller side streets, once bustling with life, had transformed into treacherous paths that seemed almost impassable. The remnants of buildings lay scattered in towering mounds of debris, creating an eerie and haunting atmosphere. Jagged pieces of broken glass and twisted metal protruded through the wreckage, posing a constant threat to anyone brave enough to venture through. Any step taken would be accompanied by the unsettling sound of crumbling structures above, as if the ruins themselves were whispering tales of their tragic demise. The air was heavy with the stench of dust and decay, making it hard to breathe amidst the desolation. It was a scene straight out of a nightmare, where hope struggled to survive.
The disappointment clearly showed up on Buck's face as he reduced the QC's speed. He began to realize there was little chance that the city would offer the kind of data he sought. The streets were eerily deserted, devoid of any signs of life. The sound of the QC's engine reverberated loudly, bouncing off the sheer walls of the towering buildings that surrounded them. The smell in the air was old, stale, and foul, as if it had been trapped within these abandoned streets for ages. It became increasingly evident that there was no active remnant of the ancient scientific community here, leaving Buck with a sinking feeling of hopelessness.
Strangely enough, both of his robot passengers appeared to be feeling bummed out as well, if robots could even feel such things. Buck cruised past massive boulder-sized blocks of brick and mortar, skillfully swerving and dodging gnarly, twisted, sharp chunks of steel girders. For a while, nobody said a word. But then Buck broke the silence with some of his trademark hipster slang. "This is downtown nowhere, dig?"
As the wheels of the QC rolled on through the desolate cityscape, Buck couldn't help but notice the disappointment etched on his robot companions' metallic faces. It was like they were programmed to experience emotions or something strange like that. But hey, who was he to judge? After all, he was just chauffeuring these robots.
He continued along the street, his eyes glancing from left to right, taking in the unfamiliar sights and sounds of the bustling city. Buck couldn't help but feel a strange mix of excitement and apprehension. The deceased metropolis was unlike any ruins he had encountered since his awakening in the 25th century. However, amidst this awe-inspiring spectacle, Buck couldn't shake off the nagging doubts that plagued his mind. The city served as a constant reminder of humanity's past mistakes, a grim testament to their reckless actions that had ultimately led to the downfall of civilization. It was a painful realization that his own people had unleashed chaos on the world by setting free the worst aspects of themselves. It was a kind of vindication for everything the Computer Council had said about the ancient human world.
The ruins to each side of the QC were a stark reminder of the failure of 20th century Man.
"Well," said Theo, trying to cheer up Buck, "it certainly must have been fun, living in a time that could build such a magnificent city as this."
Buck sighed deeply, his eyes scanning the ruins of what was once a thriving metropolis. "It wasn't wonderful living in times that could knock it back down," he said with a hint of sadness in his voice. Theopolis, the small round robot by Buck's side, remained silent while Twiki just observed the conversation.
Buck reached a cross street and halted the QC at the intersection. He didn't know where he was going----he didn't even know which city this might have been.
His plans, which sounded so hopeful and confident while still under the protection of the Inner City's dome, now seemed empty. The uncertainty of his situation weighed heavily on him, leaving him feeling lost and disheartened. Buck stared out at the unfamiliar surroundings, wondering how he had ended up in this predicament.
Twiki emitted a soft squeak, barely audible. The diminutive drone gently tapped Buck's arm with its left pincer, drawing his attention. Then, using its right pincer, it gestured towards the left. Buck followed the direction indicated by the robot companion and noticed an elderly human figure lurking in a doorway nearby. The man appeared to be around fifty years old, clad in tattered and ragged clothing. His unkempt beard and hair were encrusted with filth and dirt, a testament to the hardships he had endured. The old man, weathered by the harshness of his existence, attempted to retreat further into the safety of the doorway, hoping to evade Buck's scrutiny.
"Don't do or say anything to scare him," Theo advised. "He doesn't need that kind of stimulation."
The Anarchian man watched the approaching vehicle in frozen shock for a moment, then disregarding all caution, he bolted out of the doorway and sprinted down the street in the opposite direction. His heavy limp only seemed to intensify his desperation. As he ran, the man shouted with a mix of fear and urgency, "He's coming! Run! Save yourselves!" His voice echoed through the empty streets, carrying a sense of impending doom.
Theo's electronic eyes flashed red with determination as he suggested, "You could catch him."
Buck's gaze shifted between Theo and the old man, who seemed oblivious to their presence as he shuffled along the street. A sigh escaped Buck's lips as he shook his head in resignation. "Hello!" he called out in a louder voice, hoping to break through the old man's trance-like state. Yet there was no response from him. "What city am I in?"
Despite receiving no response, the man continued to distance himself, now nearly a block away. Buck felt a sense of urgency creeping in, tempted to make a sudden U-turn and chase after the old man. However, he restrained himself, realizing it might only further intimidate the stranger.
"I'm a friend!" Buck called out desperately, his voice carrying through the empty street. He strained to catch the man's attention. "I'm searching for someone named Taylor. Are you Taylor?" he asked, hoping against hope that this would be the breakthrough he needed.
Buck didn't receive the slightest response from the human, as if he were invisible. Frustrated, he watched as the old derelict abruptly turned and darted into the doorway of another building. The sight of it made Buck's heart sink, for the exterior of the building was a haunting reflection of its decaying state. The once vibrant paint on the walls had long faded, leaving behind patches of peeling and cracked surfaces. The wooden boards that formed the structure were warped and splintered, barely holding together. Time had taken its toll on the windows, too; they were covered in layers of grime and dirt, rendering them opaque and lifeless.
"Well, Buck remarked, "there goes the welcoming committee. It seems to me like..." His words were abruptly cut off by Theopolis, who swiftly reprimanded him to remain silent. As a sentient portable computer, Theopolis possessed far superior hearing capabilities compared to Buck and had developed a strong reliance on his instincts.
Gradually, Buck also began to perceive the sound. The ground trembled beneath the QC as if hit by a series of thunderous sonic booms reminiscent of the colossal strides taken by giants in fairy tales. In Anarchia, such things were ominous signs. Buck sped up the QC now, looking for a hiding place among twisted steel, broken glass, chunks of concrete.
Twiki emitted another high-pitched squeak, catching Buck's attention. Theopolis quickly interpreted the sound. "Buck, I believe he is indicating that you should proceed in that direction," Theopolis responded promptly, preempting Buck's need to ask for a translation.
Buck turned his gaze towards the indicated path, his curiosity piqued. He couldn't help but wonder what had caught Twiki's attention and why it was urging him to go that way. Adjusting his grip on the steering wheel, Buck drove forward, cautiously advancing in the direction Twiki had pointed.
In response to the persistent urging of the little drone, the spaceman reluctantly steered the stolen vehicle towards a building that had once exuded an air of grandeur and authority. Despite the passage of time and various catastrophies, the structure still stood resilient, bearing only minimal signs of damage. Theopolis, the quad, felt genuine concern as his sensors alerted him to the imminent arrival of the unknown threat.
His electronic eyes flickered with urgency, emitting a vivid red glow. "We're running out of time!" Theopolis urgently communicated.
Buck realized that he didn't have enough warning to hunt out a secure place of concealment. He would have to take his chances with what fate provided. He brought the QC to a halt behind a badly deteriorated wall that more closely resembled a rock pile without a building attached.
Just as he managed to slip out of sight, a terrifying gigantic human emerged from around a corner and into the street. Its mottled skin resembled a grotesque patchwork of nightmares, stretched over an unbelievably tall figure that seemed to scrape the heavens. Muscles bulged beneath its taut flesh, pulsating with unnatural strength. And its face, obscenely horrendous, was a twisted visage of pure terror, with jagged teeth protruding from a snarling mouth and eyes that glowed with malevolence. The creature's leisurely pace indicated that it was in no hurry to find anything useful or otherwise; it simply exuded an aura of sinister purpose.
"Let's just stay here for a while," said Buck. "The shade's restful."
The colossal mutant monster, with its grotesque limbs and menacing presence, continued skulking up the desolate street. Each heavy step it took sent tremors through the ground, causing debris to shake and crumble. As it drew closer to where the QC was concealed, a sense of trepidation began to grip Buck.
Buck felt beads of sweat forming on his forehead. The weight of his curiosity about this adopted era suddenly became overwhelming. He had always been fascinated by the unknown, but now he realized that his insatiable desires for knowledge might have horrifying consequences.
The mutant, oblivious to Buck's internal struggle, continued its relentless march. Its massive frame cast an ominous shadow over the remnants of what was once a bustling city. The creature's attention was fixated on something else entirely as it thundered past Buck's hiding spot. It seemed that fate had intervened in Buck's favor.
Still, he waited a moment for the evil creature had passed out of hearing range. The constant need for vigilance had become an unfortunate reality in his life, one that he neither enjoyed nor chose. Yet, it was a necessary survival skill in this unfamiliar and dangerous world of the 25th century. Without his watchfulness, he might not have made it through his first days. As he sat in the driver's seat, heart pounding in his chest, he couldn't help but reflect on how drastically his life had changed.
After a moment of silence, Buck's voice broke through the stillness. "Is it okay to get my heart started again," he murmured, his words barely audible in the vast silence of Anarchia.
Theo processed the question with lightning speed. His electronic sensors scanned the surroundings, analyzing every data point available. "My sensors tell me," Theopolis replied in a calm and measured tone, "the, ah, coast is clear, as you might say."
Buck knew deep down that the situation was far from ideal, and he couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that it would never truly be. The gravity of their predicament weighed heavily on his mind, urging him to take immediate action. "We'd better hole up for a while," he suggested, his voice laced with a sense of urgency. He knew that seeking temporary refuge was the wisest choice they could make in this dire moment. "That's the wisest choice, isn't it? This godforsaken place, rotting away in its own misery for what feels like an eternity. It'll continue to decay and crumble, just as it always has, without a care for anyone or anything. So why rush?"
As he stood there, his eyes meticulously scanning the surrounding buildings, Buck's mind was consumed with finding a place that would not only provide them with a sense of safety, but also offer some semblance of comfort. These structures had sprung up in his absence from Earth, their unfamiliarity causing him to struggle in identifying them. After what seemed like an eternity of contemplation, he finally settled on the colossal central building that had initially captured his attention. With a determined tone resonating in his voice, he declared, "My mother told me to pick----this one!" With determination fueling his every move, he steered the powerful QC vehicle towards it, the debris beneath its super-strong wheels crunching ominously Anxious thoughts raced through his mind as he desperately hoped that the mutant monster had not doubled back, lurking nearby and listening for any signs of his approach.
He stopped in front of the entrance, his eyes fixed on the foreboding building before him. Its darkened windows seemed to hold secrets, and an eerie silence hung in the air. Theo looked at him with concern etched across what passed for his face.
"Surely you're not going in there," Theo said with apprehension.
"Don't you remember what you told me about mutant hospitality when I got banished?" Buck paused for a moment, memories flooding back to him like a torrential wave. He recalled the time he had been cast out by his own kind, forced to wander through a world that had become alien to him. Mutants were known for their hostility towards outsiders, their distrust engrained deep within their DNA.
Buck undogged the driver's hatch, feeling a rush of excitement as he climbed out of the vehicle. The hard, dry surface of the old pavement greeted him, its cracked and weathered appearance telling tales of a bygone era. Twiki and Theo followed closely behind, Twiki's metallic footsteps echoing in the silence, Theo riding shotgun around his neck.
"What do you think?" Theopolis asked, his electronic voice filled with curiosity.
Buck paused for a moment, his gaze fixed on the towering structure that stood before them. Its majestic presence seemed almost untouched by time, its grandeur still intact despite the passage of years. He couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as he looked up at its almost unspoiled face.
"I'm not sure," Buck finally replied, his voice tinged with wonder.
Theopolis used his sensors to scan the shabby, decayed buildings that lined the neighborhood. The peeling paint and crumbling facades spoke volumes about the area's forgotten glory.
"I would guess that it was something important," Theopolis mused, his voice tinged with curiosity. "It was built well."
Buck, who had been walking alongside Twiki, stopped in his tracks and turned to face both Twiki and Theo. A wry smile played on his lips as he replied, "So was the Colosseum."
"The what?" Theo asked, genuinely perplexed by Buck's remark.
"The Colosseum," Buck repeated, his voice filled with awe. "An ancient marvel that stood as a testament to the brutal spectacle of gladiatorial combat. It was a time when humanity's thirst for entertainment took a twisted turn, as men were pitted against ferocious beasts in a battle for survival. It is hard to fathom how such a place could exist, where the lines between sport and social reform blurred into something grotesque and unsettling. The Colosseum became an arena where the powerful sought to appease the masses through bloodshed, all under the guise of entertainment. Yet, amidst the chaos and savagery, there was an undeniable fascination that gripped onlookers - the anticipation of witnessing man's struggle against nature's untamed fury. In this macabre theater, spectators placed their bets, knowing all too well that their fortunes were more likely to be won by backing the animals rather than their human counterparts."
Theo's lights flickered erratically, illuminating his face in a disconcerting manner that resembled a malfunctioning circuit. Buck's mention of it was oddly nonchalant, further adding to the confusion and unease that enveloped the room. It was as if he had stumbled upon a facet of 20th Century man's personality that was both cruel and unfamiliar to them all. The quad found himself at a loss for words, unable to comprehend or respond to this bizarre situation. The silence hung heavy in the air, punctuated only by Theo's sporadic flashes of light, serving as a constant reminder of their perplexity and vulnerability in this strange encounter.
Meanwhile, Buck had spotted something near the door and had begun to brush away the thick layer of dust and rubble that had accumulated over the centuries. Twiki, the trusty robotic companion, trotted over beside him, lending his immense strength to assist the 20th-century man in their endeavor. Together, they worked tirelessly to uncover what Buck had caught a glimpse of—a barely readable plaque or building sign.
As they carefully removed the debris, revealing more of the mysterious sign, it became evident that time had not been kind to it. The once pristine surface was now damaged and corroded, with chunks missing and letters faded beyond recognition. However, despite its dilapidated state, the three companions were able to read it. As he squinted his eyes and traced his fingers along the worn-out letters, a sense of awe washed over him. The sign, barely holding on to its former glory, revealed itself to be an ancient relic from a forgotten era. It proudly proclaimed its identity as the Larson-Thurston Institute of Scientific Research.
"Well, how about that?" Theopolis's "face" glowed a soft, warm red, signifying the little quad's delight. "It's an institute of science!"
"Yeah, well…" Buck glanced all around him, taking in the desolate landscape that surrounded the crumbling remnants of the towering doors of the institute. The once grand and imposing structure now stood as a haunting reminder of a bygone era. Nature had taken its toll on the building, with vines creeping up its walls and weeds sprouting through cracks in the pavement. He took a step toward the crumbling remnants of the towering doors of the institute, his curiosity piqued by the mysterious aura that surrounded the abandoned building. Theopolis scanned him with a mix of concern and intrigue.
"I'm going to go have a look inside," he declared, determination gleaming in his eyes.
Obviously this did not compute to Theopolis. "What for?" he asked cautiously. "What do you expect to find within those decaying walls?"
A sense of adventure coursed through his veins as he pondered Theopolis' question. He had always been drawn to enigmas and hidden secrets, and this dilapidated institute seemed like a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. The stories whispered among locals about its haunting past only fueled his desire to uncover the truth.
"Larson-Thurston Institute of Scientific Research," Buck replied, his eyes scanning the imposing building before them. Though he didn't directly answer Theo's question, his words hinted at a deeper significance. "In my time, this is what they would have called a government think tank. This building might still be housing the remnants of their groundbreaking ideas and discoveries."
Twiki emitted an excited squeal that echoed through the quiet street.
"That's correct, Twiki," Theopolis said gently, his voice filled with understanding. "His search for this Astronaut Taylor still drives him." The quad's lights flickered in contemplation as he processed the information. After a few moments of silence, he finally spoke up again.
"Buck, this is my final warning," Theo began cautiously, his metallic voice tinged with concern. "You must give up this reckless pursuit. It's dangerous and could potentially lead to unforeseen consequences."
But Buck wouldn't hear any of it. He interrupted Theo before the quad could finish his sentence. "No!" Buck exclaimed defiantly, his determination shining through his words. "I can't just give up now. There has to be a way to utilize this place! Think about it, Theo—the people who built it could have deposited the sum of all their knowledge and history here!"
Included in that knowledge, Buck hoped, were the invaluable skills that had propelled individuals like him into the vast expanse of space. With this wealth of expertise, he believed he could unlock the mysteries surrounding the fate of Colonel George Taylor.
Theopolis piped up again, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and concern, "Would it be asking too much to let Twiki and I accompany you, Buck?"
With a sense of urgency in his voice, Buck replied, "Yes, it would. I need you guys to stay with the QC."
"All right, Buck," Theopolis finally replied, his tone reflecting acceptance. "We'll do as you ask."
Buck moved cautiously through the gaping doorway of the dilapidated building, his steps deliberate and measured. The once majestic structure now lay in ruins, with piles of rubble and sections of walls scattered haphazardly across the floor. Each step he took required careful navigation over the debris, forcing him to climb laboriously over fallen beams and shattered remnants of what was once a grand entranceway.
The high, vaulted ceiling that had once proudly adorned the entrance had long since succumbed to time's relentless grip. Its collapse had left behind a haunting emptiness, a void that seemed to swallow any remnants of life that dared to venture within these forsaken walls. As Buck pressed forward, he couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of desolation that permeated every inch of this decaying edifice.
The air inside hung heavy and stagnant, suffocating in its stillness. It clung to his skin like a shroud, as if carrying the weight of forgotten memories and lost dreams. The dim light filtering through the cracked windows only intensified the eerie atmosphere, casting long shadows that seemed to dance with the ghosts of the past.
Interesting decor, thought Buck, picking his way through fallen fixtures and rotting rubble as he looked around. The dilapidated room was a haunting reminder of a bygone era, a time when life thrived within these walls. Now, all that remained were remnants of what once was - a stark contrast to the vibrant world that had existed before.
As he surveyed the scene, Buck couldn't help but ponder the appropriate name for this eerie setting. "Early American Nuclear Holocaust?" he mused aloud, his voice echoing through the desolate space. The phrase seemed to capture the essence of the destruction that had befallen this place, where remnants of a once prosperous society lay in ruins.
Buck felt his foot brush against what seemed like a rock, causing him to pause in his tracks. Curiosity getting the better of him, he glanced down, only to be met with a bone-chilling sight that sent shivers down his spine. It was a human skull, weathered and worn, still attached to an incomplete skeleton.
The brittle bones seemed to hold the weight of countless stories within them, whispering secrets of lives long gone. The mere touch of Buck's foot had caused the fragile remains to crumble into a fine dust, disintegrating the entire right side of the skull. The air filled with particles that danced in the sunlight like ethereal spirits.
A mix of fascination and unease washed over Buck as he stood there, contemplating the fragility of life and the relentless passage of time. He couldn't help but wonder about the person this skeleton once belonged to - their hopes, dreams, and fears now reduced to mere fragments scattered on the ground.
"Lovely," he muttered as he moved on.
Buck examined a section of a broken wall, his eyes fixated on the peculiar jutting structure that seemed to defy the original designer's intentions. As he stood there, surrounded by the remnants of what was once a grand hall, he couldn't help but wonder about the purpose behind this seemingly misplaced piece.
The broken wall disrupted the rectangular spaciousness of the area, creating an irregularity that piqued Buck's curiosity. He traced his fingers along its rough edges, feeling the weight of history in each jagged stone. It was as if this fragment held secrets waiting to be unveiled.
Lost in thought, Buck contemplated whether this protrusion was intentionally placed by the original designer or if it was a result of some unforeseen event. Perhaps it was an architectural experiment gone awry or an intentional disruption meant to challenge conventional design principles. The possibilities swirled in his mind like whispers from forgotten craftsmen.
But beyond its origin, Buck's imagination wandered even further. Could there be something hidden there?
Never having been one to let the unknown possibilities of a situation remain that way for long, Buck's curiosity got the better of him. With a determined look in his eyes, he reached out and started tugging at something embedded in a section of the crumbling wall. The ancient bricks groaned and protested against his efforts, but Buck's persistence paid off as he felt the object give way.
Suddenly, with an ear-splitting crash, the entire wall began to crumble before his very eyes. Dust filled the air, obscuring his vision and forcing him to dive for cover. Heart pounding in his chest, Buck watched as the rest of the wall slipped, tumbled, and crashed to the floor.
The air was filled with dust, swirling and dancing in the dimly lit room. Buck coughed and sputtered, his throat constricting as he struggled to breathe. He could feel the particles settling once again, coating every surface in a thick layer of gray. With a frustrated swipe of his hand, he tried to rid himself of the clinging dust that had found its way into his hair, forehead, and arms.
As Buck cleared his vision, he turned his attention back to the wall that had crumbled before him. The once sturdy barrier now lay in ruins, revealing a hidden chamber beyond. The sight both fascinated and unnerved him. It was as if this discovery had opened a door to an unknown world, shrouded in mystery and secrets.
Lost in his thoughts, Buck was suddenly jolted back to reality by the sound of a man's voice echoing through the building. The voice carried an air of feeble authority, attempting to assert control over the chaotic scene.
"Who's out there?"
The voice that spoke those words came from an alcove that lay behind the fallen wall. The back wall was the original wall of the Institute's lobby; this place had been built afterward. Maybe an archive of some kind? Buck cautiously stepped closer, his heart pounding in his chest. He knew the speaker wasn't Theo, and it sure as hell wasn't him. Who had come in here ahead of him? The question gnawed at his mind, filling him with a sense of unease.
He stepped through the hole to investigate, his curiosity piqued by the mysterious room. But as he entered, he quickly realized that this was no ordinary archive. Gone were the familiar sights of files neatly arranged on shelves, cabinets filled with documents, or stacks of crumbling papers waiting to be sorted. There were no trays of microfiches or racks of computer tapes humming with stored information. Instead, an eerie emptiness greeted him.
The room seemed devoid of any remnants of human activity, except for one peculiar sight that caught his attention. In the corner stood an impromptu shelter, cobbled together from the wreckage of a small alien spacecraft that must have crash-landed here years ago. The twisted and crumpled steel sides formed a makeshift structure, its jagged edges jutting out like broken bones.
As he approached the shelter, he couldn't help but marvel at the strange craftsmanship displayed in its construction. The metal panels were scorched and dented, evidence of a violent crash. The shelter seemed to have absorbed the impact with its resilient design, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the wreckage.
Just then, the stranger's words echoed through the darkness once more, cutting through the tension that hung heavy in the air. Buck's heart skipped a beat as he listened intently, his concern growing with each passing second.
"Whoever you are," the stranger's voice rang out again, filled with a mix of determination and desperation. "I think it only fair to warn you that there's a pregnant woman here with me, and I'll die to protect her if I must."
The mention of a pregnant woman struck a chord deep within Buck's soul. His protective instincts kicked into high gear, overriding any fear or uncertainty he may have felt. He couldn't bear the thought of harm coming to an innocent mother-to-be.
"No!" Buck shouted back, his voice filled with sincerity and urgency. "I won't hurt you! Where are you?"
There was silence at first, the weight of anticipation hanging in the air. Then, like a whisper carried by the wind, the voice's mysterious owner finally responded, breaking the stillness that had enveloped the surroundings. "We're over here," it echoed softly, its tone laced with a hint of desperation and hope. "You've found our shelter amidst this desolate wreckage. If you can spare a moment to lend us your aid, we would be eternally grateful."
Buck raced toward the shelter, his heart pounding in his chest as he yanked the wainscoting away from its place. As he peered inside, his eyes widened in astonishment at the sight that greeted him.
Standing before him was an alien man, dressed in a peculiar attire that seemed to blend elements of Spanish and Portuguese fashion with futuristic twists. The clothing was adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colors, reminiscent of traditional Mexican garments but made from materials Buck had never seen before. The fabric shimmered under the dim light, giving it an otherworldly glow.
The alien's humanoid face held vague nuances of Spanish and Portuguese features, with high cheekbones and a strong jawline. However, what caught Buck's attention were the odd protrusions on the alien's forehead. They resembled small ridges or bumps that ran horizontally across his forehead, creating a unique texture to his skin. But it was the shape of the alien's nose that truly stood out. Unlike a typical pointed or round nose, it was long and slender, with a delicate curve that added an air of elegance to his otherworldly features.
The alien was bent over the jerking form of a young woman lying flat on her back. her delicate features, framed by long, flowing black hair that cascaded over her shoulders. Her skin, kissed by the sun, possessed a warm nut-brown hue that seemed to glow softly in the alien's otherworldly presence. There was a captivating allure in her features, yet a certain vacancy in her eyes that hinted at a lack of worldly knowledge. It was as if she possessed an ethereal charm that simultaneously fascinated and perplexed. Although the woman's appearance suggested youthfulness, it was difficult to determine her exact age, but she seemed to embody the innocence and naivety often associated with those in their early twenties.
Her clothing consisted mostly of what appeared to be tattered animal skin, skillfully fashioned into a makeshift garment that modestly covered her bosom and loins. The rugged texture of the weathered hide hinted at countless adventures and untamed wilderness, as if each tear and fray told a story of survival against nature's harsh elements.
The woman's eyes widened with a mixture of fear and desperation as she stared up at Buck, her trembling lips barely able to form words. “Tay-lor, No-va.” she said, her voice quivering with an underlying sense of urgency.
Summoning all his courage, Buck knelt down beside her and gently placed a hand on her trembling shoulder. "Am I just in time or too late?" he asked.
The alien man's response came swiftly, his voice laced with a terse tone. "I cannot determine how close she is to giving birth. My knowledge of human physiology is limited, and I am not equipped to assess such matters accurately."
"Has her water broken?" Buck asked, his voice filled with concern.
"Water?" The alien tilted his head in confusion, clearly unfamiliar with the concept. It seemed that their system of childbirth was vastly different from humans. “No…no, I don’t think so.”
Shaking his head, Buck replied, “Well, it looks to me like she’s not too far away from it.” As he observed the primitive female, he noticed the telltale signs - the beads of sweat forming on her forehead, the way she clutched her swollen abdomen. It was clear that she was in the midst of labor, and time was running out.
Looking up at Buck with pleading eyes, the alien asked in a desperate tone, "Can you help us?"
"Before I get involved, tell me who you are," Buck requested, his voice laced with caution and curiosity.
The alien paused for a moment, his large, almond-shaped eyes fixated on Buck. With a gentle smile, he began to introduce himself in a voice that seemed to resonate with an otherworldly melody.
"I am Aerrum," the alien said, his voice carrying a harmonious tone that echoed through the air. "Aerrum is my first name, and Umarri is my last name. It is a name that holds the essence of my origins and the vibrations of my home."
Buck's eyebrows furrowed as he tried to wrap his mind around the peculiar combination of letters in the alien's name. It was unlike anything he had ever heard before, truly befitting its unearthly nature.
His curiosity piqued, Buck couldn't help but inquire further. "So, Aerrum Umarri, what planet do you come from?"
Aerrum's eyes twinkled with amusement as he let out a soft chuckle. "Ah, dear boy, it would take too long to tell you that."
"No-va," the girl repeated, her voice trembling with desperation. "No-va."
Buck furrowed his brow, trying to make sense of the situation. "Is that her name?" he asked, glancing at Aerrum for confirmation.
Aerrum nodded solemnly. "It appears so. She keeps calling for someone named Taylor."
As they stood amidst the crumbling ruins, the weight of their predicament settled heavily upon them. Nova's swollen belly was evidence enough that time was running out, and yet danger lurked in every shadowy corner.
Aerrum's eyes scanned their surroundings, his gaze filled with both concern and determination. "I'd love to help her find him," he said, his voice laced with regret, "but we can't ignore the imminent threat posed by those killer mutants."
"I doubt very seriously he's anywhere around here, Miss Nova," Buck thought to himself, scanning the area for any sign of his target.
"My name is Buck Rogers," he introduced himself to the alien, trying to maintain a calm demeanor despite the urgency of their situation.
Nova looked up at Buck with wide, frightened eyes, her face pale and streaked with dirt.
"Pleased to meet you, Buck," Aerrum replied with a nod of acknowledgement. His voice carried a sense of determination and confidence that reassured both Buck and Nova. "Now let's get moving and get this girl some help."
With synchronized effort, Buck and Aerrum gently lifted Nova off the ground, supporting her weakened body as she struggled to regain her balance. But just as they thought she was steady on her feet again, she nearly fell again from a sudden shock.
Buck's eyes narrowed as he looked at Twiki, the small robot with Dr. Theopolis suspended around his metallic neck. He couldn't help but feel a mix of annoyance and curiosity at their unexpected presence.
"What are you guys doing here?" Buck demanded, his voice laced with frustration. "I thought you were guarding the car."
Theo’s electronic voice crackled to life, responding to Buck's question. "From what, Buck? There's no sign of that mutant giant now. I decided you might need my wise counsel to--" Before Theo could finish his sentence, Twiki emitted several short, annoying sounding squeaks.
The quad blinked his lights and spoke in his usual calm tone. "Good question, Twiki," Theopolis said. "Who are your new friends, Buck?"
"An alien and a mother-to-be, Theo," Buck said urgently, his voice filled with concern. "And we'd better get both of them back to the Inner City, pronto!”
Theo hesitated for a moment, contemplating Buck's words. He knew that the situation was delicate and required careful consideration. "The woman can come, Buck," he finally replied, his tone measured. "But this alien should remain here. There is no record of his people contacting Earth, and we cannot risk exposing our society to unknown dangers."
Buck's eyes widened in disbelief as he tried to process Theo's response. "No time to argue, Theo," he objected firmly. "We have to get back to the QC... Now!"
As the wind whipped through Buck's hair, he couldn't help but feel a surge of adrenaline coursing through his veins. The urgency of their mission weighed heavily on his mind, pushing him to push the stolen QC to its limits. Every second wasted felt like an eternity, and Buck knew that time was not on their side.
The desolate landscape blurred past them as they raced back to the Inner City. The once familiar surroundings now seemed foreign and distant, as if they were entering uncharted territory. Buck's heart pounded in his chest, matching the thunderous roar of the engine beneath him.
Beside him, Nova clung to her seat, her body trembling with both fear and anticipation. The involuntary jerking that had plagued her just moments ago had subsided, offering a temporary respite from the imminent arrival of new life. Buck couldn't help but feel a mixture of relief and concern; relief that they still had some time before her child would enter this quirky 25th century world.
"It would have been morally unjustifiable to abandon her in such harsh conditions, Buck," Aerrum asserted, his voice filled with concern. "This wasteland is too perilous for a woman in her delicate condition."
Buck nodded in agreement, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Absolutely, Aerrum. We can't just leave her here. But can you tell me how she got here? Can she talk?”
Aerrum furrowed his brow, trying to recall the details of Nova's arrival. "Well, Buck," he began, his voice tinged with uncertainty, "she arrived here on...on a large creature. It had four legs and a long mane." Aerrum paused for a moment, struggling to find the right word. "Ah yes! A horse! That's what it's called."
Buck listened intently. "So she rode in on a horse?" he clarified.
"Yes," Aerrum confirmed with a nod. "Nova appeared at the ruins riding this horse. She seemed distressed and disoriented when she arrived. And, yes, she can talk."
Buck pondered for a moment before asking another question. "But she can only say Taylor's name?"
Aerrum sighed, his expression filled with concern. "Unfortunately, my friend, that is correct."
"But," Buck frowned, "it must've taken her weeks by horse. How has she stayed so well fed?"
Aerrum looked at Buck, his expression filled with concern. "I know it sounds unbelievable, but Nova managed to survive on her journey by relying on a simple diet of bread and fruit," he began, his voice steady and calm.
"She carried a rucksack made of leather and cloth, which she filled with provisions before leaving."
Buck's frown deepened as he tried to comprehend the logistics. "But how could she have enough food to last for weeks? And where did she find fresh supplies?"
Aerrum nodded understandingly. "It wasn't easy for her, I’m sure. Perhaps someone had given her enough provisions to last her the entire journey, carefully calculating every morsel to sustain her. Or maybe she has an uncanny ability to forage for food along the way, skillfully identifying edible plants. It could also be that she had encountered kind-hearted strangers who offered her hospitality and nourishment during her arduous trek. Unlikely, as your planet seems mostly uninhabited.”
He paused for a moment before continuing, his voice tinged with sadness.
"It was a few days ago," Aeerum began, his voice filled with a mix of sorrow and determination. "Nova had just arrived at the outskirts of the ruins when a group of mutants ambushed her. They were vicious, Buck, relentless in their pursuit."
Buck's frown deepened as he listened intently, trying to imagine the scene Aeerum was describing. The thought of Nova facing such danger alone made him uneasy.
"They attacked her horse first," Aeerum continued, his voice tinged with sadness. "It was a magnificent creature, strong and loyal. But those mutants... they showed no mercy. I knew I couldn’t let them harm Nova, so I used the remaining power in my laser pistol to dispatch those bastards."
"I think Mr. Umarri did the right thing, Buck," Theo said, his voice filled with conviction as he leaned back in his chair, contemplating the situation at hand. The room fell silent, allowing his words to hang in the air, inviting further discussion.
Buck furrowed his brow, clearly intrigued by Theo's statement. "You really believe that, Theo? I mean, I understand why he took that course of action, but I'm not entirely convinced it was the right move."
Theo nodded thoughtfully before continuing. "I understand your hesitation, Buck. It's not an easy decision to make, especially considering the potential consequences involved. But when I look at the bigger picture and consider all the factors at play here, I truly believe Mr. Umarri made a courageous and morally sound choice."
"Thanks for the vote of confidence, Dr. Theopolis," Aerrum said, his brow furrowing in confusion. "But who is this 'Taylor' she keeps calling for? "
"Well, Aerrum," Buck began, "Let’s just say that Taylor is an astronaut, just like us. He has a problem, and I’m trying to help him.”
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