The Genesis Illusion

Chapter 13

Paul rejoined Sam at the reception desk where he waited. "Sorry, I had to take that," Paul explained. "Business you know."

As they exited the building, the unintelligible sounds of the street greeted them. A hot and humid crescendo of exhaust fumes and human sweat attacked their senses. Paul was oblivious to all of this. All he could think of was the conversation he was about to have with Sam.

"Do you have any preference?" Sam asked, as they dodged people walking along the uneven sidewalk.

"You choose." Paul gathered his thoughts before his critical exchange.

Sam stepped into a small restaurant where there were a few open tables. It was a good choice for Paul because they could escape the sounds and confusion found on the street. After ordering their plate lunch and each getting a beer, Paul and Sam talked for a few minutes about their interests, education, and efforts to support Arcadia.

Then Paul said, "Yesterday I heard there was something special going on. I saw Andromeda arrive with a large group." I'll leave that linger. He's got to respond? I think.

Sam replied after thinking a moment, "I know you have been working with the Arcadia movement for some time. I'm sure you agree it's a noble cause. Our leader, Bright Sun, has created fantastic inventions we can use to provide the oppressed with plentiful food and improved medical treatment. These are things we all support."

"Yes, I agree. But what is the plan to get these life-changing improvements to everyone?" I'll throw more chum in the water.

"Bright Sun strongly believes she is the only one that can lead the new society of Arcadia. She, along with Andromeda, will rule this country for the benefit of all."

This is the standard dogma. I need to know if he supports everything Bright Sun proposes. I need his help. It's risky but there isn't time. "We've heard she intends to take over parts of Myanmar and Thailand to establish the country of Arcadia. Won't the governments defend their territory? Aren't people going to be hurt, even die?"

Sam leaned on the table with his elbows, dipping his head before he responded. "I don't support any tactic that would hurt people." Paul could see that Sam's conflict and his struggle to answer without appearing not to support the Arcadia plan.

"How about Ann...uh, Andromeda?"

"She was raised in isolation at the Arcadia headquarters and is completely subservient to her mother. Bright Sun subscribes to a course of action that reaps immediate results. Ann and I have had long discussions about these issues. She is a carrying and compassionate person, but supports her mother. She doesn't want anyone hurt." This is more than I hoped for. He must have wanted to get this off his chest.

"I'm sure these issues present a predicament. It's not my place, but here's an idea. I have been working for the last twenty-five years creating important inventions and sharing them without resorting to violence."