Scorched Earth: A Future History of Planet EarthPetrovic, Walter D.
Science
Scorched Earth: A Future History of Planet Earth
Petrovic, Walter D.
Science fiction
Brook showed Lloyd more taped recordings left for those people who may
have possibly succeeded the holocaust and deluge. One of those
successors was Carter Blue. He found the machine in Angaent, on his
way to Pomperaque, and used it to make the city a powerful state, in
itself, and so becoming its ruler and leaving it all to his own
offspring.
Brook showed to Lloyd the dozens or so books from the Twentieth
Century, that dealt in a wide range of topics. Some of the books that
Brook possessed included those on Architecture, History, Mathematics,
Art and also Theology.
Lloyd was impressed by the preserved quality and the information
contained within them. In just a few books, Brook had a good example
of what the ancient people were like, but what Lloyd waited for, with
such eager but patient anticipation, was the book that his Lord had
been so mysterious about.
"I'm still amazed," Lloyd began, "to see someone with the power to
save the world from a madman, lack the will-power to accomplish it."
Brook felt ashamed of his inability to show the definite power that he
possessed. But to keep peace and unity in Phoride, he had no choice
but to sacrifice his presence to that of the Almighty ArchBishop.
He tried to explain that to his guest, but he did not want to make
himself look like a coward. He only wanted to show his caution.
"I stayed within the walls of this house. I watched for intruders who
would hardly hesitate to hide little listening devices for that great
weasel. After he realized the motive behind my seclusion, he stopped
his spying. Later, he used my own vigilance to make me seem like a
recluse. But now, my friend, I can once again walk the streets of
Pomperaque because you are here to hold my place."
Lloyd, loyally bowed his head in trust-worthy acceptance, and
apologised for his unjust implication that Brook was a coward. Brook
forgave him for speaking so because he knew that, in his heart, Lloyd
didn't really mean it.
"Providence had thrust us together. You and I, Lloyd, will work
side-by-side, to return to this land its forgotten freedom and
greatness. We shall teach others all that we know. This is the only
way to change the ArchBishop's hold on my people."
Lloyd agreed.
His anticipation also grew to see the great book that Brook promised to
show him.
Brook made his way to a shelf near the white screen. From one of these
shelves he removed some books, slid a panel away and pulled out a
large, dark book.
"If ever I am defeated or destroyed, you must care for this place and
this book." Brook instructed.
With a silent breath, Brook made a confession to Lloyd, along with a
request for a service that would take him a life-time.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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