We Are Legion (We Are Bob)

Bob

July 2334

Heaven’s River

There was a subtle vibration through the floor, followed a few moments later by one set of doors opening.

“The train for Halep’s Ending has arrived,” the voice said in my ear. “The train will be leaving in one hundred twelve seconds.”

I walked through the open doorway. A short airlock section ended in another set of doors, which opened into what was presumably my train. Certainly it had that long, tubelike train shape. There were no windows, but there were rows of comfortable-looking seats. I glanced over my shoulder and realized that the row of doors at the end of the platform connected to matching doors on the train, with two sets of doors leading into each car. Very much like a subway. All in all, it seemed very civilized. I studied the area at the back of the car and realized it held a washroom (the same sign on the door was used in every town in Heaven’s River) and a small vendor kiosk. There was a sign on the shuttered window that said, The snack bar is closed until further notice.

I was staring at the sign in a state of slightly disbelieving amusement when the train voice said, “Please be seated. Doors will close in eleven seconds. Acceleration will last three hundred thirty-six seconds. After that point, passengers may move around the train.”

I took the nearest seat and settled back. It was comfortable and included accommodation for the Quinlan tail. There were some controls on the armrest and speakers in the headrest. Quinlans travelled in style. But in principle, a passenger might have to travel up to a half-billion miles in Heaven’s River. How would that work?

“Excuse me, train voice?”