The Genesis Illusion

Chapter 56

So, I will somehow help Arcadia? What am I going to do? Why would I do anything to help them? Paul stood motionless next to Lee facing the audience, his face void of expression. Behind him the three inventors marched to the front of the stage.

"Now the moment you have all been waiting for," Lee said. "Our supreme leader, the most intelligent creative and understanding being on this planet, Bright Sun."

Lee grabbed Paul's arm guiding him to the side of the stage. Paul now could see the inventors moving to the opposite side. The curtain incorporated into the stage backdrop parted and....

Maria?

Maria is Bright Sun? She wore a spectacular scarlet red dress and an elegant professional styled half-do coiffure. Bright red lipstick and a red wristwatch completed her ensemble. Maria, she looks so much older. She promenaded confidently toward the front of the stage as everyone in the audience stood and cheered. The ovation lasted what seemed like several minutes as she stood smiling and waving to her admirers. As the applause subsided, she raised her hands to quiet the crowd. Smiling, she looked out straining to connect with everyone.

"Thank you, thank you, my associates Ian Carlson, Ling Wong, and Zhang Tao Lim, already delivered the message of Arcadia." She turned reaching out her arm in their direction acknowledging them to another round of loud applause. "You have also heard from my uncle Lee and our recruit Paul Jacobs." She again reached out her arm motioning toward Lee.

"I don't know why I was chosen to become the creator, inventor, and leader. An external force we may never understand made this choice. But now that I have this special intelligence, I need to use my gift for the good of everyone in the world. You have seen and heard about some of my creations. These will change everyone's life for the better. There will be many more innovations.

"Our new society of Arcadia will be the envy of those enslaved by their corrupt governments. Eventually, the artificial barriers they have made to enslave their subjects will dissolve and the new, better, civilization of Arcadia will emerge. We are not yet ready to spread our message to the world, but when we are, you will know. You can then join us as we create a place where we will take care of you and your families in exchange for your support and labor. This will be a fair trade, resulting in a better life for all."

The crowd erupted, cheering and applause continued on for several minutes as Bright Sun retired backstage followed by the three inventors and Lee guiding Paul who was still in a trance.