applying the human genome several thousand years ago.
“Is this some futuristic movie?”
Let me explain a few things. For example, on the surface, you measure everything as it relates to rotations of the Earth around the sun; and you use standard text books in schools based on historical facts, findings and figures. Men like Newton, Darwin, Einstein and Hawking, so many people up there you worship, not just within religions; and so many years of schooling. Anyway, the point is that you are just now beginning real medical research, miniaturization and genetics.”
“Yes we all know Newton, Einstein, and Darwin,” Bello s challenged. “I studied modern man’s boom in discovery began pushing limits with the space race, back in the 1960s. That alone started generating tremendous strides in miniaturization. Our people continued for centuries, making great discoveries-transplants, artificial limbs, skin grafts, venom vaccines. The new research is endless.”
“Yes, well th at’s right. Don’t think I am belittling your accomplishments, or culture. Quite the contrary; I just wanted you to know that we were where you are now, millennia ago. Imagine this; our children learn and understand courses of study like quantum theory, organic chemistry and genetic analysis at primary school levels. When we tried to get you going on it, you burned witches. The mind can be a very bad enemy, Mathew.”
“So the $200,000 was pa yment for listening to this fantasy?”
“No, of course not; back to my point; dow n here we do not see the Sun; we use other frames of reference, as time controls and guideposts, to improve learning and progress.”
“What are you talking about?” Bellos was clearly agitated.
“I can see you want the heart of the matter. We are a health-based society. Sometimes we borrow things from the surface, and then we give discoveries back to you, as payment, as medical science advancements, you see. However; we are at a point, now, where I will need your help, specifically. I am going to help you, for starters, and show you exactly what I mean. Then, I will answer your questions; and, make no mistake; you will flood me with them.”
“Hah, I have no idea what you’re talking about…What about you, specifically, your health?”
“Yes; hmm, in my case, I do have a specific genetic issue. I have a flaw that develops later in life. It’s sort of an ‘orphan’s genetic disease’. I must address it. However, I have to do so with and through you. Your family does not have genetic flaws. In fact, yours is quite gifted genetically. My condition has no cure, yet.”
A small smile appeared on Swanson’s lips.
“Given our way of measuring time down here, and my condition, I must choose my successor now; and that’s that. There is no committee, no vote; I am sole authority. Our laws state that my successor may be of any background, but there are other specific rules. We have studied the genetic codes of all candidates, within the entire global community, both up there, and down here. Of all people on the planet, you are the only one that can fill this position.”
“Pardon me; that is crap. This is all bullshit! I can’t believe anyone would fall for this. If I knew how to leave, I would. But frankly, I have no idea how to get out of here.”
“Mathew please; your reaction is quite understandable. Just come with me. I have something to show you.”
They walked down the 100-foot long, by 20-foot high vaulted corridor that reminded Bellos of a church cathedral. He was in awe and stopped to study several oil paintings, sculptures and mosaics that filled the walls.
“Are these all originals? Who the hell are you guys?”
“Leonardo donated that one. Beautiful, isn’t it? Look here. This Islamic mosaic is from the Second Crusade. One thing we are not, Doctor, is fake. Everything in any of our facilities across the globe is authentic. Nothing has been made by old Hollywood.”
“Hmm, you sound like