Vyran
As the ship descended into the planet, I closed my eyes and tried to contact Vero.
"Hey, big bro!" my little sister said as I appeared in the living room. She ran over to hug me, even though she knew I was only in holographic form.
I smiled, feeling a pang of longing. "You never learn, do you?"
She giggled, her laughter filling the room. "Guess not..."
I wished I could hug her, to feel the warmth of her embrace. But for now, this holographic connection would have to suffice. "I miss you, Vero. I wish I could be there in person."
Her eyes sparkled with joy and concern. "I miss you too, Vyran. When are you coming back?"
I took a deep breath, trying to keep my emotions in check. "Varia and I will be back home soon. We're landing on the planet as we speak. Just a little more time, okay?"
Veronia's face lit up with happiness. "That's great news! Mom and Dad have been so worried. We couldn't get in contact with you or Varia for a while. They were really scared something might have happened."
I nodded, understanding their concern. "I'm sorry for making you all worry. Things have been... complicated. But we're safe, and we're doing everything we can to make things right."
Her expression softened, the worry still evident in her eyes. "Just promise me you'll be careful, okay? We need you both back here, safe and sound."
I smiled, feeling a surge of determination. "I promise, Vero. We'll be careful. And we'll come back to you, no matter what."
She nodded, her trust in me unwavering. "I'll hold you to that, big bro."
As the ship prepared to land, I knew our conversation was coming to an end. "I have to go now, Vero. But I'll contact you again soon. Give Mom and Dad my love."
"I will," she said, her smile warm and reassuring. "Stay safe, Vyran. I love you."
"I love you too," I replied, my heart heavy with both love and duty. The holographic connection faded, and I found myself back on the ship, the reality of our mission pressing down on me once more.
The ship touched down smoothly, and we disembarked, stepping onto the surface of Quadra. The planet was a blend of advanced technology and natural beauty, its cities seamlessly integrated into the lush landscape.
Commander Wilneth gathered us together, her expression focused. "Remember, our priority is to gather intel and assess the situation. Stay alert and be prepared for anything. Things might seem fine now, but Yusan could be plotting stuff from the shadows. His methods aren't always as violent as those he used to take Sarudei's planet."
Sarudei frowned slightly upon being reminded of Edesia's situation. We had taken down one base, but there were more on her planet.
We nodded, our earlier camaraderie now a source of strength and determination. With a final glance at each other, we set off into the city, ready to face whatever awaited us.
As we stepped off the ship, we were greeted by a cityscape that seemed to blend nature and technology in perfect harmony. Towering skyscrapers, constructed from shimmering materials, reached towards the sky. Their surfaces were adorned with intricate patterns that glowed softly with bioluminescent lights. These buildings were not just structures but living entities, equipped with self-sustaining systems that harnessed solar energy and even filtered the air, contributing to the planet's overall health despite how big its cities were.
The streets were alive with a network of transportation systems. Hovercars and maglev trains glided silently along their designated paths, controlled by a network of AI that ensured efficiency and safety. The vehicles themselves were sleek, powered by renewable energy sources. Pedestrian walkways, elevated and interconnected, allowed residents to move freely above the bustling traffic below.
Holographic displays were ubiquitous, providing real-time information, entertainment, and communication. These holograms were not just flat images but fully three-dimensional projections that interacted with the environment. News updates, advertisements, and even art installations floated in the air, seamlessly blending into the surroundings without feeling intrusive.
Public spaces featured botanical gardens, where plants and trees thrived under optimal conditions created by climate-control systems. These gardens were not just for show; they played a crucial role in maintaining the planet's ecological balance. Bio-engineered flora emitted calming scents and purified the air, creating a serene atmosphere even in the heart of the city.
Our brain chips allowed us native Quadrans to stay connected to the global network at all times. These devices were powered by microfusion cells, providing virtually unlimited energy without the need for frequent recharging. Communication was instantaneous, with holographic calls and messages appearing in mid-air at a mere thought. We could project ourselves too.
Security was tight yet unobtrusive. Surveillance systems monitored public areas, employing facial recognition and behavioral analysis to detect potential threats. Drones, both visible and concealed, patrolled the skies, ready to respond to any emergency. However, the technology was designed to respect privacy, with strict regulations ensuring that personal freedoms were not infringed upon.
Healthcare was another area where Quadra's technological prowess shone brightly. Medical facilities were equipped with diagnostic tools and robotic surgeons capable of performing complex procedures with unparalleled precision. Nanotechnology played a significant role, with nanobots routinely used for internal repairs and disease prevention. Although I was still wary after Sarai's death...
But despite the marvels around us, I couldn't let myself be distracted. Our mission was critical, and Yusan's presence on this planet posed a significant threat. We had to gather intel, assess the situation, and act swiftly to prevent him from exploiting Quadra's technological advancements for his own nefarious purposes.
"This planet really is different from our world," Sarudei mumbled.
Goerld nodded. "Yeah."
Varia chuckled. "Edesia would be considered early bronze age at most. Something we achieved millennia ago."
"Even modern Titania pales in comparison," Wilneth muttered, also in aww.
I narrowed my eyes at the her, Ret, Prince Huitlo, Zairus, and the recently recovered Tira. They might not have been Yusan but they were still our enemy. Even Lia might've been a security issue.
"So, what's the government here in Quadra like?" Wilneth asked. "I heard from Zepheria that Orginal had a bunch of local governments with a relatively weak central government with a few special powers."
"Everything here is run by the Nomuus Corporation."
"A corporation?"
"What's that?" Arare asked, blinking.
I took a deep breath, ready to explain. "Yes, a corporation. The Nomuus Corporation is an intergalactic conglomerate that governs most of the universe, including Quadra. They're not just a business entity; they function as the central government here on the planet and beyond."
"A corporation running a planet?" Arare blinked in confusion, clearly struggling to grasp the concept. "How does that even work?"
I nodded, understanding his confusion. "It's a bit different from traditional governments. The Nomuus Corporation oversees everything from infrastructure and technology development to healthcare and security. They have a board of directors that makes decisions, and they're responsible for maintaining order and ensuring the well-being of the citizens."
Commander Wilneth raised an eyebrow. "So, they're a governing body and a business entity rolled into one? That sounds... complicated."
"It is," I admitted. "But they've been effective in maintaining stability and progress. Their resources and influence span across the universe, and they have the means to implement large-scale projects and initiatives that benefit multiple planets, including Quadra."
Goerld looked intrigued. "And the citizens? How do they feel about being governed by a corporation?"
I shrugged. "For the most part, people are content. The Nomuus Corporation provides a high standard of living, advanced technology, and security. But, as with any system, there are those who are critical of their methods and influence."
Lia chuckled. "I can't imagine Pararis ever being run by a corporation. Our world is too fragmented and tribal for something like that."
Sarudei nodded. "It would take a lot of convincing to get people to accept such a system."
Prince Huitlo, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. "It's fascinating how different civilizations find their own ways to govern and maintain order. The Retran system may be unique, but it's clearly effective."
I glanced at Ret, who was still observing the surroundings with a mixture of awe and caution. "Hmph, I prefer monarchy."
"Don't blame you," Tira said.
"The idea of government is an odd one," Roan muttered.
Mirasa nodded.
"Your world doesn't have one?" I asked.
"Most of their universe is pretty libertarian," Wilneth said. "That made it easy to conquer, but is a nice place."
Goerld smiled slightly. "Yeah. We like freedom and peace. We settle things with games like I said before."
I smiled. "Would love to visit one day."