World Seed

Author’s Corner: Finally at the elves! Now we get to see what would have happened to Earth if they didn’t have the advantage of the Seeds, maybe.

“So, what information do you have on this system?” I asked towards Celeste as we pulled out of subspace.

“From what I read of their history, and taking scans with the Seraglio, there are currently three inhabited planets within this system. At this point in time, elves have already mastered rudimentary terraforming, but their specialty is in genetic modification. The fact that there are so many elven races in the future is due to this, because they modify their bodies to adapt to specific environments.”

“Okay.. do they use any kind of wireless network that you can tap into and learn more?”

“I’m not picking up anything, but there are multiple satellites surrounding each of the planets. Once we get closer, I should be able to access whatever networks they use.”

“Alright. Well, once we are within range, we can get a scan of the planets to determine where we’re going. Then, Sharon and I can head on down.” As I said that, Celeste looked at me in confusion for a moment. “We don’t have a spare body for you, and can’t afford to lose the one you’re using. Not to mention, we need you here to watch the ship while we’re going, and make sure it isn’t attacked.”

“....Fine… but you have to be careful! I already set up clone controllers for Yin and Yang. I’m still researching how to set one up for Yo, so I’ll keep her back here with me for now. Deal?”

“Deal.” I nodded my head as we gradually drew closer to the first inhabited planet, which was the sixth planet from this system’s star. “Anything on the scans yet?”

“Not from the satellites. It’s possible that the planet-side communication towers were hit by monsters already. I should be able to start a more detailed scan of the planet in a few moments…” Celeste closed her eyes and focused. “Okay, pulling up the information now. There are life signs scattered all over the planet, some bigger than the rest. Those are likely to be the ‘boss’ class monsters. However, either through accident or a previous rampage, each of these three bosses are in an area where there are almost no significant signs of life within fifty miles.”

“Let’s avoid those for now… Celeste, while we’re gone, I want you to have your construction drones start working on making orbital weaponry. If they have anything like that around their planets already, prioritize fixing it..”

“Roger, captain. So far, all of their satellites seem to be focused on communication or deep space scanning. If they are still functional, then whoever is controlling them has likely detected our arrival. I’ll add stealth technology to the list of things you want for the next ship.” Celeste smiled at me, and I nodded with a sigh. I decided to take this moment to review my skills and status while Celeste got the scans for the nearest planet.