Shadows of December by M. A. Senft

Author:M. A. Senft [Senft, M. A.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781532084232
Publisher: iUniverse
Published: 2019-10-08T04:00:00+00:00

“It’s simple. Glaciers melted when the Earth warmed. Deadly bacteria and pathogenic viruses trapped under thousands of feet of permafrost were released. Deforestation wiped out 85 percent of all species on Earth and reduced rainfall worldwide, disrupting the ecosystem beyond repair.” Ethan rolled his eyes. “Mind you, in the name of progress, Earth was stripped of its life-giving resources.” Ethan became deadly serious. “As a result, microscopic parasites invaded the human central nervous system.”

There was a loud clamor coming from inside the auditorium. Ethan directed Jay’s attention to the front of the hall where a man was making his way to the podium. A frisson of excitement waved through the crowd. The man cleared his throat. He surveyed the room. When he held his hand up, the room fell silent. Every eye was fixed on the stage.

In a low voice, Ethan stressed, “You may not feel comfortable with what you see or hear, but I promise you it is humankind’s future. Don’t make a sound, no matter what. What questions you have will be answered in due time.”

The man’s powerful voice boomed above the crowd—without a microphone—commanding attention. “First, and foremost, let me say because this is Celebration Day, our agenda will include, as it does every year, the exchange of ancient literature. Fantasy and fact preselected for your education and pleasure.”

Jay’s eyes widened. He turned toward Ethan, as if to say, “What’s that all about?” but remained silent, as instructed.

After a lengthy pause, the speaker made a declaration. “Ancients recorded their thoughts, in the beginning, on stone, then metal, parchment, papyrus, and paper. Before the age of computers and new beginnings. Observations noted, concerns and discoveries shared. These words of wisdom and remembrance of voyage are windows into our past.

“When sharing these materials,” the speaker proclaimed, “we learn from our forefathers. Good and bad, we glimpse into their lives and limitations. Tidbits of humorous frolic and fancy. As I have mentioned, on previous occasions, books represent a window into our distant past. Our origins. It is imperative they are duly respected and unfailingly preserved.

“You have our earnest pledge, literature deemed counterintuitive in nature, when they are unearthed, will be destroyed. For one and all’s protection, we provide only the best humankind had to offer. Be advised, the artifacts we assign today are to be treated with the utmost esteem. They are in your care until returned, Celebration Day 2364, for redistribution. They are sacred and irreplaceable treasures. I would be remiss if I did not remind you, any book defaced while in your care comes with a heavy penalty.”

The entire assembly raised their right arms in unison, fingers splayed toward the ceiling. Yet no measurable emotions were observed. A nearly imperceptible low-level hum echoed throughout the lecture hall.

“This is a glorious day!” the speaker declared robustly. He looked out over the crowd, awaiting their response. It was instantaneous. Passionately, he claimed, “Statistics are good! For that we give thanks. Technology continues to strengthen us. Our odds of expansion improve. Supplies are ample.

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