4 Terramezic Energy Read Online Free PDF Page B

information about ancient technology to humans. You are not ready and introducing such advanced scientific knowledge would most likely result in humanity’s destruction.”
    “Can you at least give us a way of scanning for terramezic energy so we can find APU 81? We have no way of defending ourselves against its attacks,” Mark said.
    “It lacks the resources to implement a significant offensive against any country of this world,” the computer said. “Virginia and other directors have already made these arguments. I am also bound by my original protocols not to contaminate the culture and integrity of younger civilizations.”
    “But we’re descendants of the race that built you,” Mark pointed out.
    “As I have already explained, humanity devolved to a younger civilization as a result of several tragic wars. For all intents and purposes, you are not the same race as the ones who built this facility.”
    “What about the White Knights? Surely nothing negative could result from their knowledge. Could you supply us with their training programs?” Mark asked.
    “There can be no exceptions. I’m sorry,” APU 4093 said regretfully.
    “What if APU 81 manages to restore an ancient facility? He’ll have the means to launch a full-scale offensive against us,” Maggie said passionately. “Are you willing to sit idly by and allow it to destroy the very civilization that created you?”
    “I have prepared weapons which I will use against any facility that APU 81 establishes control over,” the computer advised. “You have nothing to fear.”
    “You’re asking us to have blind faith in you,” Maggie said.
    The computer failed to respond. Mark, Maggie, and Virginia exchanged puzzled looks.
    “Did you hear me?” Maggie asked.
    “Further discussion on this matter is pointless,” the computer said.
    “How do you like that? It’s giving us the silent treatment,” Maggie grumbled.
    “I expected as much,” Virginia said. “I’d still like for you both to take some readings and analyze your findings. I have scanning wands stored nearby.”
    “That won’t be necessary. We can both scan without them,” Mark advised.
    “Of course.” Virginia’s eyes lit with understanding. “White Knights and category six wizards can do it on their own.”
    Mark’s eyes twinkled with mirth. “According to APU 4093, I’m just a White Knight apprentice.”
    “I intended no disrespect,” the computer interjected.
    “I’m just teasing,” Mark said.
    “Understood,” APU 4093 said in a contemplative tone.
    Mark, Virginia, and Maggie exchanged amused looks.

 
     
    Chapter 5
     
    Jake was driving the police cruiser with Josephine seated behind him and Alex in the back seat. The siren blared as he speeded South on Tamiami Trail towards Venice where a destructive magical occurrence was in process. It was unlikely they would arrive in time to witness the phenomenon.
    “This isn’t good. This has happened two days in a row,” Alex remarked.
    “It’s likely to continue like this every day until she learns to control her power or it kills her,” Josephine said grimly.
    “Do you really think yesterday was her first day as a six?” Alex asked.
    “I’m sure of it. That would explain why it’s so volatile,” Josephine said.
    “Won’t her power stabilize on its own?” Alex said.
    “If she doesn’t take the appropriate steps, it could take weeks,” Josephine advised.
    When they arrived on the scene, the road was blocked with disabled vehicles. Many of the cars and trucks had smoke billowing from beneath their hoods and the windows had shattered. The stench of smoke and burned rubber permeated the air as Josephine, Alex, and Jake emerged from the police cruiser. The nearby stores had cracked or shattered windows but Josephine noticed that the shards of glass had showered inside the buildings instead of on the sidewalk. Most of the vehicle owners remained on site beside their stalled vehicle or standing nearby at a