The Human Mankind
Pablo L.Mainzer
Smashwords Edition
Copyright 2010-Pablo L.Mainzer
****
Dear Reader,
This book is permeated by the idea of Utopia. But would you know how to define Utopia? I'll try to help you with this task:
It is easy to see that in all definitions, the meaning of "Utopia" is a goal difficult to reach. In fact there are two opposite characteristics of utopias: a feasible and infeasible. The first would include the illusion to control by man nature occurrences, such as earthquakes, erupting volcanoes, lightning, tornadoes, etc., which are known to belong to exclusionary clauses in insurance contracts - called "acts of God." On the other hand, the second utopia includes facts-controlled behavior, will and actions of human beings, and this is influencing the content of this book.
Introduction
Charles Hold, a man of advanced age, in one of his sleepless nights with wandering mind, recalled the comment at a meeting of friends about the exceptional character of a mutual acquaintance. They concluded with the unavoidable assessment, "If all people were equal to him, the world would be different!"
The strength of that assertion deepened so in his mind that his conversations focused on incipient utopian philosophy aimed at a human mankind. Over time he was considered "a boring naïve dreamer," and the apparent interest of his listeners came to be hypocritical.
Social contact can be sensitive at times and Charles Hold couldn’t help but notice the gradual loss of quality of his relationships with others, a depressing factor for his ego. One night during his usual ramblings, was born the idea to reflect his philosophy on paper and write a book. While acknowledging that the outcome could perhaps repeat the same failure experienced in his relationships - considering the utopia of his thoughts - even so, he began the writing, propelled by an unstoppable momentum, the book Peace and Love.
BOOK I
The Betrayal
1
Saturday, June 30, 2012.
Emergency meeting convened by the President of the United States, Frank Montan. In a special room of the White House are present: William Sand, Secretary of Defense, Paul Douglas, Secretary of War, Herbert Conde, Secretary of State, John Alleg, representing the CIA., and James Frile director of the DSW (Development of Special Weapons).
James Frile with a serious expression on his stern face begins reporting the unexpected occurrence of the previous night. According to his account, the DSW laboratory received at 3:25 am a call from the wife of Henry Olleg, principal scientist who contributed to the development of the new weapon "Mac".
-Please ask my husband to get in touch because I cannot access him by phone-Elisabeth Olleg told his go-between, the security guard on duty that night, in a tone that showed concern. Her husband had not returned home after leaving for work that night.
-Yes, ma'am, I’ll go to his office to transmit the message and ask him to return your call - answered the security guard on the other line.
Resolute, with firm steps, he went to the office of Dr. Olleg, where he came upon him with his head down, resting on the desk. The official shook his head, reflecting on how the scientist would be exhausted by the sleepless night. He shook his body without success. The bottle that he held in his hand fell to the ground. Horrified, the security guard saw that Dr.Olleg was dead. Beside him was an envelope addressed to his wife and the Director of DSW.
James Frile looking at all his companions read the contents of the letter:
"I, Henry Olleg, am a traitor before not only my country, but to the whole world. Here are the facts: First, I'm not the venerable person who people think I am. I have a serious addiction, which is a compulsion for gambling. Considering my professional activities, this addiction left me in a vulnerable position. I claimed to my wife to be involved in secret projects that consumed more hours of work, when in fact I made constant visits to the Casino Royal in Nevada. My bad luck with gambling has affected not only the economics of my entire family, left on the tables at the casino, but also accumulated a huge debt with the mob.
"One night, upon leaving the casino, when I was getting into my car, I was kidnapped by two armed men. I thought it was the mafia to recover the debt, but then discovered that was not so. They took me out to a place in the desert, here I was threatened:
-We know that your name is Henry Olleg and that you are the chief scientist at DSW. We also know that you are married to Elizabeth and have two children, one 4 and the other 6 years old. You live on Fryling Street, number 48 and the DSW’s director is Dr. James Frile. DSW is developing a new weapon called "Mac". We have a great offer for you: You give us the formula, and to generously reward you, we’ll pay off your debt with the mafia and we’ll even recuperate your savings at the Royal Bank. We have resources that will allow us to ensure that this operation will be completely confidential, and no one will ever mistrust this action. Now, if you don’t accept this proposal and talk to the police or other authorities, or even with some of your relatives or any other person, we’ll kill you and your family. In case of any action by the police, as trained 'suicide bombers', we’ll feel honored to sacrifice our lives.-
"Don’t think that I didn’t feel dead ambushed: By accepting the proposal, I knew that countries and organizations that make up the blacklist compiled by the Department of State, like Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Al-Qaeda, Taliban and others may develop the new weapon, with the risk of possible widespread extermination! If I didn’t accept, I would be responsible for the murder of my family, including my own.
However, not wanting to mitigate my responsibility, I am aware that the development and production of this particular weapon, being much less complex than the nuclear arms, would occur anyway, regardless of my contributions.
"So, if I bowed to the demands of the terrorists
, understand that at least I'm trying to save the lives of my loved ones. I love you so much, Elisabeth, Jonathan and Bruce...I know that is asking too much, but forgive me, forgive me, forgive me...Henry.
The silence charged with disbelief, emotion and concern of every person present is interrupted by the President, who inquires,
-Mr. Frile, tell me more details about the features of "Mac"- His pale and haggard face demonstrates the tension of that serious revelation. -And, in particular, when would be the minimum timeframe that device could be produced, ready for use?-
-Mr President,- answered the Director of the DSW, still perplexed by the dramatic occurrence, -this weapon, as we know, by virtue of its gaseous constitution, unlike nuclear weapons, does not cause destruction or temporary or residual radioactivity. However its lethality is so much more powerful that it extinguishes all lives in extension which we still are unable to determinate. Therefore, a practical test cannot be risked. But we confirmed its effectiveness through a micro-test evaluation. Moreover, its evaporation seems to be creeping into nature and it´s feat influenced by a synergistic action in combination with climatic conditions, especially with the "greenhouse effect", become more and more obvious and disturbing-
The President interrupted him, somewhat impatiently:
- Instead of so much bla bla bla, go directly to the point, considering the strategic and military implications.
-Mr President, perhaps the new weapon will cause a cataclysm, if our suspicions are confirmed regarding its infinite capacity for expansion. I would also stress that its production is much less complicated than that of nuclear weapons. The respective raw materials are easily accessible and by having the formula for its production, could be ready for use within an estimated three months.
- Paul, the launch could be done with bombs, missiles or torpedoes?- The President now turns to the Secretary of the War Department. -And how soon can we use them?- -Frank, the shooting can be executed with bombs or missiles, within no more than two months, since we will have initial stocks of ammunition. However, I must point out another characteristic of this device, which leaves us in a great dilemma. It may burst either by violent contact with the earth, or explode in midair. In this case, depending on the altitude, its impact may be even greater and have an unpredictable consequence. For the same reason, our defensive weapon EAM (missile shield) will have exactly the opposite effect of its goal, because destroying the Mac it releases its gas.
-And the CIA, Mr. Alleg?- the President asks thoughtfully -What will be done to find out in time, where and who is producing the equivalent of our "Mac"?
-We know nothing yet, Mr. President,- answers the CIA man, -but I will adopt immediate measures to enhance the infiltration of our agents into any country or group of fanatics who might produce and release this device.
The President considers:
-Let’s ponder the facts; our agents will check out if somewhere on the planet a weapon similar to the "Mac" is being effectively produced, in which case we´ll have to plan the destruction of their installations. Moreover, as time passes without our agents discovering something, the risks increase, as well as the possible consequences for all mankind.
With hands clenched on the table, he concludes, worried and seriously:
-Gentlemen, grave responsibility rests upon us to determine the best actions in these dire circumstances. I ask each of you to bust your noggins over the next few days thinking about the best options and plans to be executed. Our next meeting will be on Monday at 8 am. Meanwhile, strict confidentiality must be maintained on this subject.”
Herbert Conde from the State Department informed that measures have been taken to ensure the safety of Dr. Olleg’s family, transferring them to another state and changing their identities.
Without further comment, the Chairman finished the meeting.
July 09, 2012, 8:00 am
The meeting was opened by the President, speaking to a group of concerned and aware partners. Everyone noticed that the severe expression on the face of the highest authority of the nation, and even a few more gray hairs were noticeable on his head since the week before.
-Gentlemen, I want to hear everyone's opinion, considering the worst case scenario. Since the terrorists al-Qaeda attacked the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, there is no doubt that Islamic organizations are preparing new attacks of catastrophic nature, possibly sponsored by enemy nations of Uncle Sam. Assuming, hypothetically, that over the next three to four months our agents are unable to determine anything about the production and eventual use of "Mac", what measures are appropriate - and less ruinous - that we must venture to avoid the worst? I want to hear the position of each one of you.
Paul Douglas, Secretary of the War Department takes the cue.
-Frank, I think we must prepare right away a broad preemptive strike against all suspected countries and groups capable to launch the "Mac."- After saying this incisive phrase, he turns off his pipe. -The implications and risks involved, if they have the weapon and decide to use it, judging by the information from DSW, may not only cause the extinction of life in the United States, but a global catastrophe.
-This proposal, Paul, is absurd, because without a doubt it would lead to a third world war. The nature of nuclear power would have even worse consequences than what is expected of "Mac"- says Herbert Earl of the State Department, unable to contain his indignation. -We would not just have incalculable losses of lives, but widespread destruction of the infrastructure essential for human life. And worst of all, the residual radioactivity could cause death for many decades.-
Pausing briefly, he continued:
-Anyway, I think that action would be precipitated. I think the best decision at this moment is to wait some time until any information is received by our agents.”
-William, what is your opinion?- asks the President of the Secretary of the Department of Defense.
-I agree with my colleague Herbert, Frank, right now any decision would be premature. We have to know more about the destructive features of the Mac and the result of the action of our investigative staff. Of course, we must be prepared to launch a pre-emptive strike and dismantle the likely production facilities of Mac, eventually existed in countries or groups of the "axis of evil".
-And what does our CIA man think? - the President asked, turning to the one who has not expressed any opinion.
-It´s obvious - says John Alleg - that our actions depend on the results of our agent´s mission, for which we have to give some time. I must also draw attention to the fact that from the suicide note of Dr. Olleg, it becomes clear that amongst the staff of DSW there must be an infiltrated person, since the terrorists had knowledge of the developed new weapon " Mac", as well as of the organization engaged with this development. We have already started the operation to unmask him or her; then it might be possible to extract the information necessary to plan our actions".
-As I mentioned at the previous meeting, due to the uncertainty of the destructive power of "Mac", we could not risk a practical test as we performed on the development of nuclear weapons,- says Dr. Frile of the DSW , -but, despite the race against time, we have built a below ground cabin on our special island in the Pacific.-
-And what is its function, Dr. Frile?- asked all as one.
-This compartment precludes any leakage of gas and in a fraction of second causes its auto-ignition. Although on a very small scale, this will simulate a practical test to obtain more realistic information about the impact characteristics of the weapon. The test will be held next week, when I will be able to present the results at our next meeting.-
Pointing the finger to the secretary who takes the notes, the President concluded the meeting:
-Let us recapitulate: The production of the weapon "Mac" is in progress, as well as the actions of our agents to find out, as urgently as possible, the activities of countries or groups suspected of assembling and eventually triggering the "Mac.” A practical test of it will be made in order to have more accurate data about its destructive power and any information necessary for guiding our preventive actions. Finally, in order to discourage an eventual large-scale conflict, we should relax the strict confidentiality regarding the development of this weapon, in order to discourage an eventual large-scale conflict.
Monday, July 16, meeting at the White House.
Without any ado, the President started the reunion on time:
-Dr.Frile, you called me yesterday with new information from DSW. Please give us your details on this communication.
-As anticipated at the last meeting,- says Dr.Frile -we managed to do a practical pilot test in a specially built compartment and, through computation, we obtained important data about the power of the “Mac”. Unfortunately, our initial impression was confirmed. The expansion of the gas is equivalent to a chain reaction that would cause an incalculable magnitude of life extinction.
In an ambient of deadly silence and expectancy he continued - In the second place, contrarily to our earlier impression, the ignition point of the gas showed that the risk of auto-ignition is slight and the chances of causing a fire or explosion remote. Another peculiarity is that the direction of the gas cloud is more influenced by the position of the sun than the Earth's attraction, that is, the movement of the cloud depends on the time and place of the shot. As its speed is also affected by the direction and force of the winds, one can only predict the areas and extent to be reached, knowing the time and place of the shot. Moreover, for the reasons mentioned, and considering the rotation of the earth, this mortal cloud at some point begins to dissipate into the atmosphere and be lost in space.
-So we have to admit that the "Mac" is considered the most destructive force ever created by man!- concludes the horrified President.
-Frank, in view of such information, I insist that we must decide the destructive action and attack without further delay, wherever,- says the War Department chief- otherwise we run not only the risk of our country being destroyed, but perhaps the universe itself! Moreover, Dr.Frile, wouldn’t it be possible to develop a device to divert the direction of the gas cloud?
-I find it impossible, especially in so little time,- Dr. Frile shakes his head skeptically. -However, we talked with LOUSRE, a known firm specializing in the development of vaccines, with the purpose to produce, in conjunction with the DSW, a product that would remove or mitigate the effects of this gas in humans. An eventual success, however, is questionable, especially, considering the short time available. This gas has proven very lethal, causing instant death."
The President turns to the CIA man:
-John, what are the chances of receiving concrete information of our agents in time to activate plans to prevent them?
-Still premature to estimate, but we might have fifty percent of favorable chances, considering our very capable agents infiltrated in the main terrorist organizations and in suspected countries.
-Gentlemen,- says the President, -at the moment, we are totally dependent on such information. Any news that comes up, I want to be informed immediately. We will meet next Monday at the same time, or earlier if necessary.”
On Thursday at dawn, Frank Montan is contacted by the call from Mr Alleg of the CIA, stating that they received important information from the network of agents assigned to this case. This new data allows the summit to reach some conclusions.
-Well, John, we will convene an emergency meeting tomorrow!-determines the President, fully awake now.
Friday, July 20.
The President says, introducing the out of the routine meeting, -As you know, the CIA is in possession of some important information, so John, tell the news.
-My friends, I will comment the data received, but first, I must report another information.- John Alleg begins, -We were suspicious of an enemy agent infiltrated in our DSW. When analyzing in detail the background of each employee, we detected an irregularity in the questionnaire of Mr. Mendez’, assistant laboratory technician. When trying to contact his family, to double-check the veracity of his educational courses, this was not validated. In our interview, Mr. Mendez alleged not knowing this residence. That same night, he committed suicide by ingesting a capsule. As with Dr. Olleg, all employees of the DSW are committed to maintain absolute secrecy about such occurrences.
-Well, now the information received from our agents: It was the Taliban who received the Dr. Olleg´s formula for the production of "Mac," including the design of facilities, equipment and operating manuals to fire the shot. It was found that this terrorist organization receives financial, technical and logistical support from a country not yet known, but it was thought to be Iran or North Korea. Finally, as was reported, the facilities for the production of "Mac" have already been under construction in a mountainous place situated in the northern Afghanistan province of Kunduz. We also know that the facility will be underground, that is, under a mountain. Our staff hopes to soon be able to know the exact location.
-I knew it! I have always suspected them!- Herbert Earl exclaims triumphantly, momentarily ignoring the seriousness of the revelations.
-Do we know something about the accessibility of the area of production and transportation of materials and equipment used?- asks Paul Douglas.
-The transport routes are practically impassable, mining trucks and even helicopters have been used for displacement. To facilitate their flight and takeoff, platforms have been prepared.
“Gentlemen,” says the President, “with this information from CIA, it is time to plan and be ready for a preemptive strike to eliminate immediately the risk of a catastrophic and unpredictable occurrence. At the next meeting that we will set for the 28th of this month, since we anticipated the one next week, I would like to know the planned strategies and also, possible measures to eventually prevent possible attacks from such as "Mac." Until the next meeting, then, and thank you!
July 30, 2012 - Meeting at the White House.
-Well, gentlemen,- the President says, -let's start with the CIA. Any news, John?-
-Frank, our agent in Afghanistan stated that he will be able to ascertain the exact location of the facilities for the construction of the device type "Mac" and its release, very soon. There is still no decision on a date of detonation, which depends on the determination of the country that is supporting and enabling the manufacture of the bomb. Moreover, there is strict secrecy on the identity of this country, affecting all employees involved with the death penalty in case of disclosure. Another important piece of information is that this country would be eager to know the power and effect of this device, data that should have been passed by the undercover agent in the DSW, who committed suicide.
-Well, and what is the nature of the preparations for a preemptive strike, Paul?- asks the President.
-Once the point of the premises is known, guided by the new instruments of GPS accuracy, we will use B61-11 penetration bombs, with explosive force of more than 600 miles per second expansion, which will ensure the complete destruction of the facilities. For this, B-2 Stealth bombers (invisible to enemy radar) will be used. I must emphasize again, Frank that I think it’s essential to trigger, without delay, a pre-emptive strike before the enemy facilities are ready for a possible launch.
-I agree, Paul, but no matter what, we need to wait for more detailed information from our agent in Afghanistan to set the final details of the characteristics of the action.
-William, have you studied possible countermeasures in case of an invasion of this gas cloud? And how long would we have from the time of the actual detonation by the enemy?
-Well, Frank, to tell the truth, we are not moving in this direction. It could lead to widespread panic among the population with no possibility of effective refuge to avoid the waves of the cloud and to protect everyone against invasive gas. The man of DSW said there is one caveat: We know that this gas is extremely volatile, invisible and odorless. The identification is only possible with the use of special instruments, which are being developed, not with much hope, though.
The chairman closed the brief meeting, thanking the participants and defining the next one in a week, unless receiving important information beforehand.
August 06 - White House meeting
-Good morning, gentlemen,- says the President. -All of you must have been informed that our staff man in Afghanistan was finally able to determine the exact location of the facilities for the manufacture of the "Mac" bomb. But he didn’t have, so far, an indication of the expected date for the completion of the facilities, nor when or if the device will be launched. Anyway, it's time to define the nature and date of our preemptive strike. What do you think, Paul?
-Frank, I repeat, we must act without further delay; success to achieve the exact target will be guaranteed if we use the light of the day, or after noon, local time. The attack will be made with the elements already described in the previous meeting
The President addressed the Secretary of State Department:
-Herbert, we must also determine whether we should publish the event with the justification, before the action or not?- I think we should report it not before the time of the attack, Frank, justifying it as the only alternative found to protect the world from the looming reality of this extremist group.
- I agree entirely - says the President. - And in terms of defense, what can we do in case of an invasive cloud, William?
- Unfortunately, very little, Frank. We discussed this at length with the staff of DSW, and you Dr.Frile warned us, among other things about the additional data obtained from computers in relation to the pilot test performed, which indicate a specific mutant and unknown gas. Due to its extreme volatility, it will be subject to various climatic conditions, the wind, and the different topographies of the sea or mountains.
For these reasons it will be difficult, if not impossible, to predict the course of several gas clouds, and the time to reach our country. For the time zone, Afghanistan is about eight and a half hours ahead of the East Coast of the United States, yet even if we can record the exact time of its release, it will be impossible to predict the course of the clouds that come near our continent. Furthermore, we have to admit that the inevitable panic of the population would lead to a disastrous situation of people who could stomp and be trampled in an attempt to escape, besides the general catastrophic occurrences. Therefore, in no case should we give a reason to create panic.”
-Well, - says the President, - we have reviewed the main implications of the situation, so it's time to fix the day to launch our pre-emptive strike. How long, Paul, to be ready and wage the event?
-No later than a week, Frank, but we need a prior authorization of four hours.-
-So let's start operations, without fail, next week. At our next meeting, Monday, we will set the exact day, unless unforeseen events arise. Good afternoon, gentlemen.
2
Thursday, August 09 - United Nations Headquarters.
Special meeting convened by UN Secretary General at the request of the government of Iran, who wants to convey a major announcement.
-You have the word,- says the Secretary to the delegate of Iran.
-Gentlemen, I was given the task by the President of our country to announce the following statement: For many years we are under strong pressure from the United States and other countries to give up our nuclear program, including threats of aggression.- The representative uses a solemn tone that changes in degrees until it becomes threatening. - Today Iran says, that´s enough! Those are impositions and interferences in our country that we feel are simply unacceptable! Iran has the same right to independence and autonomy of other countries, whatever its political system. We are ready to defend the integrity of the Iranian nation. In the same intimidating tone, he continues with his speech, by no means politically serene:
-Our fingers will always be on the trigger and our missiles, are capable and ready to attack United States interests around the world. You can try to impose things on the Iranian nation, but you do not yet know the power we have now! However, Iran is willing and eager for constructive understandings with the United States, in which no conditions are imposed representing an undue interference in our country and, instead, to meet mutual interests peacefully. Thank you for the attention.
Confusion takes over in the conference arena with delegates looking around quizzically in incredulity, as if they could not believe what they just heard in their headphones, through the simultaneous translation into their languages.
Some debates continue, whether or not related to the subject of the meeting and the Iranian proclamation; however, the delegates from the United States and Iran maintained frozen silence.
3
Friday, August 10,. - White House, Washington D.C.
Emergency meeting convened by the President.
-You have heard the words of the representative of Iran at the UN. Now, there is no doubt that the country sponsoring and authoring the production of the "Mac" by the Taliban in Afghanistan, is Iran. On the one hand it reduces the need for the moment to attack Iran itself, but we must prepare for an immediate destructive attack to the known constructions, according to our plans already drawn up. Paul, can you speed up preparations to launch the raid on Sunday?
-Yes, Frank, absolutely guaranteed.
- What about the disclosure, Herbert?
- As agreed,- says the Secretary of the State Department, - we will announce on the same Sunday the known reasons to justify this action, although without detailing the power of "Mac", to prevent panic of the population.
- Let's meet on Sunday at 5:00 am in the Defense Protective Service sector of the Pentagon, - concludes the President. - I further propose that we stay at home with our families until Sunday, telling them, under absolute secrecy, of the unprecedented events that involve unpredictable and enormous risks. Thank you all and let´s pray that all ends well! See you Sunday.
William Sand, of the Department of Defense, coming home tense and tired, sits in his usual chair in the room. His wife Anna, who had heard his entrance, as always prepares his glass of whiskey, and observes:
-Will, you didn’t even greet me today. For some time I’ve been worried about you, because contrary to your quiet nature, you have been so anxious, nervous and stressed lately! I know this is due to your responsible position, dear, is there anything I can do to help?
-You are absolutely right, dear Anna, I have serious reasons affecting me like this.- He reported briefly to his wife the grave dilemma that the government is facing and the measures to be taken to avoid a possible disaster with unpredictable consequences.
-Anna, we must maintain absolute secrecy about these events so as not to cause any panic al around.
-Will, dear, together we will face any situation, however serious it is, even death. Now go to sleep, it's late.
4
Sunday, 7:00 am.
The control room is already filled with specialized personnel in full activity, monitoring the flights started sometime ago. The President is joined at a round table by the executives responsible for these actions. In front of them is a giant screen that allows clear visualization of the events.
- It’s approximately one hour before the three bombers hit the target,- explains Fred Alves, Director of Operations, - and, so far everything is taking place as planned.
7:55 am - The commander of the squadron:
- In a few minutes we will arrive at the intended target. Everything is
ok, altitude, heading, instruments indicating total normality.
The tension grows in the room, everyone waiting for the success of the operation.
8:12 am - The voice of the commander is heard again:
-We have released the four penetration bombs and have just noted the totally demolished mountain summit, and in ...
Suddenly, an unexpected silence.
-I think communication has failed,” says the Director of Operations, as all see now on the giant screen the mountain demolished and involved in smoke, the planes still circling above the target.
The repressed silence in the room is interrupted by the voice of the worried Director:
-Incomprehensible! We are unable to communicate with personnel on board the aircrafts, but all the pictures continue to arrive normally, and the planes are circling over the target, to observe the results of action.
A growing suspense is creeping among the people present, with mounting disturbing proportions. The Director exclaims, expressing out loud with widespread concern:
- They must be experiencing something serious, because the planes are still circling much longer than they’re supposed to!
The giant screen shows then the appearance of a lilac colored horizon.
- My God, the "Mac" has been detonated, they’ve detonated the bomb!- screams Frile from DSW almost simultaneously
5
5:20 pm in Kabul.
On the balcony of their apartment in the tenth floor, Amanda, wife of the British Consul in Afghanistan, is watering the geraniums, as she notices with surprise a glittering lilac shade from the sun.
-Arthur, come quick and see it! - she calls her husband, who is working in his office.
In the time it takes for Arthur to run out of his room and catch up with her, he looks at the inert body of the woman lying on the veranda...and falls dead over his wife.
6
United States of America, Sunday, August 12.
Throughout all the news, the planned announcement from the authorities is conveyed:
"The United States government informs the nation and the world of some very serious facts: The Taliban's terrorist organization, through undercover agents, has stolen the formula and plants of installation to produce the new weapon "Mac", recently developed by American scientists. As known, unlike nuclear weapons, it is a gaseous mass, causing no destruction or emanating radioactivity, but is lethal to any kind of life!
We found that the facilities for the production of "Mac" were strategically placed under a mountain located in northern Afghanistan, and its construction entirely financed by Iran, both financially, technically and logistically. Even the threatening words of the delegate of Iran to the UN on Thursday morning practically confirmed this truth.
Considering the unknown expansive capacity of the extremely lethal weapon, its uncontrolled detonation can generate unpredictable health risks, not only to the United States, but also directly or indirectly to other countries! To avoid a possible global disaster, the United States government decided to destroy the listed facilities, and this action is running on this day. We hope to receive the understanding of all, we have tried to defend the general interests. Signed: The United States Government
7
9:10 am - Monitors’ room.
The giant screen is turned off when, because of some inexplicable interference, it begins to show grained points, losing the image. The President, struggling to maintain his composure, calmly asks the staff in attendance, - Is there any possibility of locating the gas mass, its course and speed? - He adressed Mr Frile from DSW.
-All we know is that its tendency is to move to the west at noon in a slow pursuit of the sun. We can’t assess anything more accurately, Mr. President.
- I understand, but could you estimate whether and how long it takes for the gas clouds to possibly invade our country or continent?
- I would say without guaranty, within 6 to 10 hours
Shaken and unable to hide his emotion, the President releases all staff members, with the suggestion to go home and wait with the family for the next events.
As the boss of the world's superpower, the President, re-composed himself (externally at least), for broadcasting, through TV and radio, the grave alert to the world:
"Ladies, gentlemen and families. Many are already aware that the Taliban, a terrorist organization, just detonated the chemical weapon "Mac". With such an action, their well publicized goal to cause a catastrophe, resulting in the deaths of many innocent people, will be completed! Unfortunately, we are not able to ascertain the true power of the new weapon yet, besides producing the dispersion of a gas, which, while not causing destruction or having radioactive effects, is highly lethal. We are watching and monitoring the process of this infamous attack, and we will keep the world informed about everything that is happening. In the meantime, we advice all people to stay home with the windows closed until the warning of the danger has passed."
When recognizing the sudden silence, Richard Strong, the supervisor of the telecommunications group, undertakes to remain in the room trying to track the course of the gas clouds.
- I'll stay here and keep you informed, - he uttered to the President, who says goodbye to each one with a strong hug before he leaves the room.
8
4:30 pm, local time in Madrid, Soccer Field San Bernabeu. End of Spanish league play, Barcelona versus Real Madrid. With only a few minutes left, the score still reads 0 x0. Argentine striker Aguirre kicks a bomb, entering the goal of Barcelona. The stunning cry of many thousand voices begins to circle the stadium, fans wild with joy, standing and waving their arms, when slowly a lilac glimmer embraced the field and as if on command, everyone begins to fall one upon another in a domino effect. An icy silence pervades the stadium, where players and referees are lying dead.
9
10:30 am, local time in Washington, at the monitors room. Richard Strong has just informed the President that, judging by the lack of communications, now muted in some parts of the planet, the gas masses seem to have invaded even the major European countries, lying between 40 and 60 degrees in the northern hemisphere.
-The vertical volume or elevation of the cloud must be considerable as there was no communication with some hotels located at the peak of the Alps ("Jungfrau" Switzerland and "Zugspitze", Germany), - he notes. - So far, communications with the Scandinavian countries remain intact. I tried a vision via satellite but for unknown reasons it was impossible to observe the different places of the planet. I will continue keeping you informed, Mr. President.
10
10:56 pm, New York, Manhattan. Panic and chaos in the city. After the announcement of the President, everybody wants to rush home. People running in the streets, smashed vehicles, smoke from fires, and infernal noise. Buses, subways and trains have stopped, signifying total disorganization. Shortly afterward, bodies pile up, dead silence, the sky with a lilac hue... life is interrupted...
11
The spacecraft "Hero" is moving at a height of 260 miles, at the time the aerospace engineer Arthur Delong undertakes an extravehicular activity to repair the malfunctioning of an outer refrigeration tube. Suddenly, he sees a huge ball of fire over the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii, but without the characteristics of an explosive eruption. The formation of the top of the mountain looks normal and low smoke accompanying the show, plus a rare lilac lightness. He forwarded this unlikely observation to the shuttle commander, who asked him to just finish the job and come back into the ship as urgently as possible.
Commander Fred Bloom is extremely concerned since he just lost communication with the main control center responsible for spaceflight in the shuttle mission. After several attempts, he was finally able to establish contact with the authorities in New Delhi. They too were much alarmed, informing him of the serious events and advise him to keep the ship in space, as long as the reserve fuel permits.
12
It is 4:33 pm, local time on the Iberia flight London-Madrid, starting the procedures for landing at Barajas airport in Madrid. The child, Juancito, seated beside the window exclaimed wondering - look Mamá, what a nice lilac color of the sky!
At the same time the pilots lose contact with the tower, and all life ended on board. The aircraft continues flying steeply down and then, after a moment, crashes into the ground, not far from the airport.
13
Monday at dawn (local time) - The U.S. submarine "Swanee" is sailing submerged in the Sea of Japan, heading to the U.S. naval base in Ginowan (Okinawa), when its captain orders the halting of the vessel. Then he calls a meeting of the crew through the microphone and with deep voice announces to the sailors the somber news that he has just received with respect to the awful events of that day in the world. As they are safe in the water from poisonous gases, the captain decides to postpone arriving at the base of Okinawa for another day.
The next day, already sailing on the surface, the ship enters the port. Standing on the top deck, everyone in the crew is curious and anxious to observe the local situation. Since they had lost communications with the base the day before, they are prepared for the worst. So, they do not find it strange to see dead body after dead body lying on the dock, seeing no sign of life at the base. Many sailors, including the captain, try to contact their families by cell phones. No answers but voicemail.
14
8:30 am, local time in Pendleton (Oregon) - Stephan Dolt, chairman of the American Ecumenical Association, begins his customary Sunday walk. Widower for 4 years, since his wife died of cancer, he lives alone in a small cozy house at the foot of the mountain, along with Rex, his faithful German shepherd. Accompanied by the happy dog, he comes to his favorite place, a stone bench strategically positioned at the highest point, with splendid views over the valley. Here, he uses to let his thoughts wander, sometimes talking to the dog.
47 years old, Stephan Dolt doesn’t belong to any particular religion, but is a deeply devoted man. As he does every Sunday, he decides to phone the same ecumenical associations acting in other countries. He dials the number of the person who heads the association in Paris, but no answer. After several unsuccessful attempts, he calls the association in London, with the same result. When he finally contacts the person who heads the association in Buenos Aires, he is readily answered by Mr. Alberto Palacios, an old friend. Mr. Palacios, without waiting, in a plaintive voice, asks:
-How are things there?
-What things, Alberto? - Stephan asks, slightly stunned.
-My God, Steph, don´t you know? Now I remember that you do not have TV and rarely listen to the radio! Steph, I hope you're sitting, because I have to give you very scary news. The President of the United States has released the news today that the Taliban, who stole the formulas and production plants of the new weapon "Mac", detonated that deadly device. In short, a real, though invisible, threat to all life, anywhere in the world. Finally, the President advised everyone to stay at home with the windows closed and that in the opinion of scientists, the danger may disappear before dawn the next day.
-Now I understand why I couldn’t get any contact with our people in Paris or London, -murmurs Stephan Dolt. - My God, Alberto! Words fail me for the surprise, chock and fear to hear this awful information. Let us pray that many deaths do not occur ...My thoughts are with you and your great, good and friendly family. A warm hug for everyone!
Bewildered, Stephan, putting the cell phone away, remembered he wasn’t alone. At his feet, his faithful Rex looked at him with attention.
- Rex, we have to get back home, come on!
On the way down, he was surprised by the howling animal, tail between his legs, as if he had understood the gravity of the situation.
On the center table in the room he picks up the picture of his wife, and fetching a glass of whiskey, goes to sit on the terrace, always with Rex at his side, the head resting on his feet. Miranda-- thoughtful, looking at the picture of his deceased wife, his thoughts start to wander with the memories of his life, especially, in regard to the association he was leading.
-It's true, - he thinks - in these 14 years of existence, the organization grew, with established presence on the old continent. However, fast growing at first, was losing momentum, as opposed to the development of Pentecostal organizations, which were - especially in emerging economies - invading the place of traditional religions.
Very tired, not only from his long walk, but the mental turmoil caused by the devastating information received, he is finally overcome by sleep, a restless sleep during which dreams of an apocalyptic end of the world, caused by mankind, passes his mind.
15
The gas cloud, expanding constantly, in little more than a day, enveloped the earth, extinguishing all human life and animals, leaving saved only small places in different parts of the world. The ill-fated and dismal picture is similar in most towns. Streets jam-packed with vehicles out of control, crashed, occupied by dead occupants; the smell of rotting bodies in the streets; trains derailed and destroyed stations; planes plunged and ripped apart!
It is the dreaded end of the world, not caused by natural incidents, but by greed, cruelty, selfishness and the wickedness of man, the inhuman…mankind!
II
The Humane Mankind
1
Wednesday, August 12, 2016.
In the town of Pendleton, Oregon, United States, it is a few minutes before noon and many residents are preparing to go out, recalling the day of the global cataclysm that occurred four years ago, that changed the panorama of the planet Earth. On this anniversary, people usually keep a minute's silence, hugging a neighbor, or others. This practice, called Peace and Love, was introduced by Stephan Dolt, who used to be the president of the American Ecumenical Society and who enjoys great prestige among the survivors of the disaster. The region of Pendleton was one of the few places not affected by the deadly cloud, along with some villages in the vicinity.
The day after the fateful disaster had caused the vast damage, Stephan Dolt visited the city center to talk with other survivors. Many were exhibiting extreme confusion, helpless to understand what had happened and were plagued with doubts about the future. Others, mourning the loss of loved ones killed in other places, didn’t come out of their homes. In fact, entire families had been traveling at the time of the tragedy, enjoying the school holidays, not returning home anymore.
Mr. Dolt, fortified by his deep ecumenical belief, faced the new situation with hopefulness, feeling, more than ever, that he should put into practice his deeply rooted beliefs. He knew he had a mission: to guide and help the confused people.
On the way back to his house, always accompanied by his faithful Rex, the dog suddenly ran away from him, around the corner. Curious by the animal’s unusual action, he accelerated his steps behind Rex, also turning the corner. Even from afar, he saw that Rex stopped, wagging his tail, next to a girl of about four or five years who sat and wept on the steps of a house. Arriving he sat beside the child, who impulsively embraced him strongly, while tears ran down her face.
- What is it, dear, what's going on? - Asked her.
- My pa-parents ... didn’t ... didn’t ...come back ... and I’m hungry!
Poor thing, another victim of the disaster, he thought, as he took her by the hand and led her to his house. He discovered that people used to call her Sam (probably a nickname for Samantha). Without much thought, like the most natural thing in the world, he accepted the fact that he was being given a chance to form a family, even if only made up of a daughter and a father. Ties that are created in moments of great stress last forever!
In the morning of August 14, 2012, by informal invitation, Stephan Dolt met people in larger numbers than expected, in the garden of his house at the foot of the mountain, outside of town. They came walking, cycling or even with horse-drawn carts.
It was a splendid summer day. Under a bright sun, sitting on the grass of the garden, those present heard these words of their host:
"Welcome my friends! I know that we are all extremely traumatized by the disaster of two days ago, the scope or scale of which is yet unknown. But considering the inability to communicate by any means with the world outside of our area, we must admit that the lethal effect of the gas may have affected the entire planet. Many of us are mourning the unexpected loss of a beloved family member or friend, including our highly regarded priest Joseph and Mayor Norman Bilt, who together traveled to Portland, Sunday, and did not return.
"Well, we are somewhat confused and disoriented, wondering, and now, what to do? I spent the night scratching my head and became excited with the thoughts that I am about to share with you. First, let us give thanks to God who granted us survival through this calamity, and the means of subsistence with the privilege of living in a rural area, rich in essential agricultural products
"However, what struck me the most was that I think we have been given a unique opportunity to create a community opposite to everything negative that used to prevail in societies around the world. Our own situation leads us to a community in the true sense of the word. Why? In order to organize and ensure our survival and go forward we need each other even more. On the one hand, we won’t have more electricity for light, fuel for transport, business as we know it and our money is not worth a thing! On the other hand, this situation leads to a union that may never have been experienced before-- after forming a real community of common interests.”
All listened with great interest, although evident in the eyes of some, there was an air of skepticism, bewilderment or emptiness. But no one interrupted him.
"When we depend on each other, the main negative factors of the previous life - greed, discrimination, jealousy, hatred, evil and the despicable nature of others - will find no echo or make sense in this new model of coexistence. By the very nature of the community, materialism, as evidenced by human unhappiness, will be transformed into the general desire to help each other!
"I am motivated by a vivid inspiration and desire to share with you my conclusions about the need to be involved in building this ideal community. This desire has generated within me positive thoughts, and also strong encouragement to start a new life in common."
Stephan Dolt’s words raised the spirits of many present, moved by the deep meaning out of the usual lethargy that accompanies such a shock. Some, with tears in their eyes, not content just to applaud his speech, rushed to embrace and thank the speaker.
Alone again, after everyone had gone, Stephan Dolt delved into his thoughts. He reasoned, though the spiritual part is beautiful and valid, but in practice, would it actually work like this in the new society?
The next day he marked a meeting with Jeff Gordon, the wealthiest man of Pendleton, owner of the largest agricultural farm in Oregon.
Gordon, a man looking like 60 years of age, athletically built, received Stephan very gratefully and was even moved by his visit. He was still shocked and traumatized by the terrible events of Sunday.
The farm, founded by his grandfather, had been gradually and steadily expanded and modernized, thanks to persistent efforts by the current owner. The extensive grounds of the farm included vineyards and plantations of vegetables, fruit trees, and livestock that had as the main objective the attainment of milk and byproducts. Except the small local consumption, the main production of the farm used to be sold to the city of Portland.
Dolt and Gordon had been friends for a long time. They used the weekends to play tennis at the local club. Hearing the words of his guest, Gordon felt he would get increasingly involved with the proposed vision of a fraternal community, nature and spirit so different from those that prevailed previously. Given the confusion that still existed among the inhabitants, they decided to take initiatives to organize a minimum of order in the city. First, they choose to design a board composed of persons known to be venerable and suitable for these functions.
Besides themselves, they invited the following persons to form the city´s board, amongst prominent figures in Pendleton´s society:
- Professor Maria Holemann, Ph.D. - Dean of the Pendleton College
- Jan Helter - President of the SCP Sports Club Pendleton
- Dr. Herbert Sonne - Director of St.Anthony Hospital
- Dr. Richard Peting - Judge of 2nd Municipal
The persons appointed readily accepted their positions as counselors, eager to contribute to the organization that would allow the population to normalize their lives, adapting to the new situation. To this end, they began a survey of existing conditions, which included the deficiencies on the one hand and the necessary substances on the other.
I was found that: Among the deficiencies, there was no electrical energy, thus, no use for most domestic utilities, no domestic gas, piped water, telecommunications (PC, TV, radio, telephones, cell phones etc.), motorized or other transport; none-existing any commerce like shops, bakeries, supermarkets, drugstores etc. no use for money, factories or any other business; employment (or unemployment); drugs, coffee, alcoholic beverages or bottled products; smoking in general, all would be missing.
As for subsistence items available, the main foods for consumption were vegetables, legumes, fruits, milk, eggs, poultry and fish; to drink, you could count on pure water from the river, all abundantly available , thanks to Gordon´s farm.
At the first board-meeting, farmer Gordon agreed to open his farm for the consumption of its products by the population, as there were large surpluses with the disappearance of the Portland market. Thus, the population of the town would not go hungry, and the situation would unite people, working together to overcome the obvious difficulties which the new absences could cause.
That same day, Stephan Dolt remembered the black family who lived not far from him in a modest house, also away from the city center. Thomas, the head of the house, was the driver of a city bus and lacking social contacts, would be quite bewildered by the situation, with serious concern of how to feed his family. With these thoughts, the new counselor Dolt decided to visit the poor neighbor.
He found the family assembled, consisting of two small children, who were sleeping with the parents sitting together on the sofa, silent and worried. Surprised by the unexpected prestigious visitor, they rose inhibited and extremely grateful listened to the words of Dolt who told them that the farmer Jeff Gordon will have them fetched next day together with their belongings, to take them to the farm, were they were invited to live.
The next day, the farmer, having been advised by his friend and already excited by the spirit of community, asked the workers to prepare the old wagon pulled by horses. Taking with him the aging black Jefferson, servant of his house, he went to the place of Thomas. The couple could not find words, so moved they were by the fact that the famous farmer had come to fetch them personally.
They invited their guests for lunch, before starting the trip to the farm. Still traumatized by the occurrence of Sunday, everyone seemed to feel the warm togetherness, thanking God in their hearts for having survived the cataclysm.
It was inevitable that the farmer compared the humble lunch they enjoyed with the dinner only a week earlier at one of the most famous restaurants in New York, to which he had been invited by the banker who administrated his great fortune. He wondered at the change he felt operating within him in such a short time. Despite the total loss of his fortune, he did not remember such a contentment he felt, sharing the food amongst this modest family.
The black family, invited to live on the farm, won many friends among the workers of the farm. Thomas found a happiness he had never felt before. No more unjust reclamations by the boss of the maintenance department, and the persistent fear of being fired when getting sick, and continuing concerns that hung over him how to finance the subsistence of his family.
In the same week the farmer called a meeting of all employees of the farm and announced:
"My friends, in the first place, I would like to express my feelings of sorrow for the loss of some of your beloved families! Today we know that the disaster of Sunday was a worldwide tragedy, and God has given us the incredible fortune to be safe from this disastrous cataclysm. Now, as survivors, we will have to face a new existence with the lack of many of the conditions that used to facilitate our lives. However, we will not be short of food, or air to breathe and water to drink.
We will now be a community, where we help each other and I'm sure, happy days await us. Under these new circumstances, there are no longer companies or business, there is neither the relationship of employee-employer nor monetary compensation. So, here on the farm, you become my friends, not employees, but collaborators. As we have large surpluses of all products, without the possibility of marketing to the population of the big city, we will not run out of food for anyone”.
Many, although still traumatized by the tragedy, were moved hearing these words from their former boss, and became more animated and even excited about starting their new lives.
After a certain period of time, the population asked Stephan Dolt to replace the late Father Joseph, delivering regular sermons in church, but he refused. Since he did not belong to any religion, he did not think it an appropriate procedure. But he decided to enlarge the garden of his house to accommodate a reasonable number of people, eager to attend his lectures.
On one of these occasions, he proposed to remember the anniversary of the catastrophe, August 12, by a minute of silence at noon, accompanied by embracing neighbors on the street, including strangers; this would strengthen the spirit of a solid community. The ceremony will be called Peace and Love.
Sometime later, one particular event moved the population. Mrs. Jone had become an early widow, 28 years old, when her husband Carlo died on the fateful Sunday during a trip. She lived alone with her son Andy, age 8. On the second anniversary of the cataclysm she was on the street at the customary one minute silence, when embracing a stranger named Henry Allen, who in turn had lost his wife on the fateful day when visiting her parents in New York. He was a widower, without children. Soon, a close friendship, strengthened by the unprecedented circumstances, ended in a solid marriage.
However, a shadow fell over this relationship. Her son Andy did not get along with his stepfather. It seemed a kind of jealousy motivated by the fact that his mother, especially at first, gave as much or even more attention to the stepfather than to him. Henry did everything to seek a normal relationship with her son, without much success.
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