Featherless Birds Bring Down Dreams (3)

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Welcome to our evening newscast. I'm Matthew Blake, and I'll be covering today's top global events. Headlines dominated in bold red, with an unprecedented event shifting the geopolitical landscape: The United States directs a decisive nuclear strike against advanced strategic industries. In a complex military operation, Washington succeeded in preventing China from accessing prohibited technology in Taiwan, amidst concerns of limited fallout on the ground and urgent moves to ensure regional stability. We bring you the details. In a dangerous development, the US Department of Defense confirmed its success in executing a precise strategic strike targeting vital industrial facilities in Taiwan. These facilities, which were threatened with falling under Chinese forces' control following their invasion of Hsinchu city in recent days, prompted the United States to take decisive action to prevent the exploitation of sensitive technology. A senior Pentagon official stated that this operation was necessary to protect global technological superiority and prevent these resources from falling into the wrong hands. He added that the precise nuclear strike was carried out with extreme caution to limit collateral damage and ensure the safety of allies in the region. Despite the scale of the operation, the White House spokesperson confirmed that the greatest threat has been neutralized, stressing that China is now unable to access the technologies it sought to control.

"We have proven to the world today that the United States is prepared to make the toughest decisions to protect its national security."

But the strike's effects were not without domestic repercussions. Initial reports indicate widespread destruction in Hsinchu city, affecting civilian infrastructure, while radiation from the strike caused limited contamination in some areas. However, experts assert that the regional impacts will be temporary and that humanitarian operations have already begun to aid those affected and stabilize the situation. In contrast, some neighboring countries expressed concerns about potential environmental consequences, but the US State Department affirmed that measures to address these risks are underway to ensure containment of any negative effects. Regarding international responses, positions varied clearly. US allies in the region, led by the Republic of Korea, were quick to welcome the operation, considering it a decisive step to curb Chinese expansion, affirming that this action enhances stability in the Asia-Pacific region. On the other hand, the Chinese reaction was angry and sharp. Beijing strongly condemned the strike, describing it as an unjustified aggression and a blatant violation of international sovereignty. It also intensified its diplomatic rhetoric, warning of serious repercussions for the future of relations between the major powers. Amidst these escalating tensions, Washington continues to monitor the situation closely, prepared to take additional measures if necessary. However, the world remains witness to a pivotal historical moment, where the United States has once again demonstrated its readiness to do what is necessary to preserve its national security and that of the free world. Thank you for joining us. Follow us on the midnight newscast for more analysis and updates. Goodbye.

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Welcome to this special discussion where we analyze one of the biggest events the world witnessed this week: the US nuclear strike targeting strategic facilities in Taiwan, and its repercussions on the international stage. Joining us today: Professor Jonathan Harris, expert in nuclear and environmental affairs, and retired Colonel Richard MacKenzie, prominent military analyst. Thank you both for joining us this evening. Let's begin with the question most pressing for the public: Professor Harris, how do you describe what happened today from an environmental and humanitarian perspective?

"Simply put, we are facing an unprecedented humanitarian and environmental catastrophe in the modern era. The nuclear strike destroyed a densely populated city and caused the release of radiation that will linger for decades. Millions of people are now exposed to the risk of death or chronic diseases and deformities, and there is a threat of a transboundary environmental disaster, especially with radiation leaking into the ocean, which could affect neighboring countries."

"With all due respect, Professor, focusing on environmental damage distracts from the real issue. This wasn't just a city; it was the center of the most dangerous technological threat that could shift the balance of power in China's favor. Decisive military action was necessary, and the losses, however grievous, are part of the price for protecting American superiority."

So, Colonel MacKenzie, you see this action as fully justified?

"Absolutely. The United States sent a clear message: there is no room for leniency with China or any party attempting to threaten our national security. Furthermore, there were Chinese forces in the city at the moment of the strike; therefore, they bear the consequence of their military intervention. If China doesn't want losses, it should think twice before making such hostile moves."

"But you ignore that this escalation could lead to an all-out world war! China will not let the killing of its soldiers and officers pass without response, and Russia, its closest ally, might see this as an opportunity to expand its military and economic influence. What happened isn't just a military strike, but a dangerous gamble with the world's future."

Professor Harris, what kind of response can we expect from China and Russia?

"The response could come in more ways than one: large-scale cyberattacks on American infrastructure, military strikes on US bases in the Pacific, or even the use of tactical nuclear weapons in strategic areas. More dangerously, the response won't just be direct; it could lead to igniting regional conflicts that draw the United States into multiple confrontations, draining it in the long run."

"China and Russia realize that nuclear escalation would not be in their interest. Any reckless move will be met with a stronger response, and the United States proved this week it is prepared to use maximum force to protect its interests. The message is clear: there is no room for compromise."

Colonel MacKenzie, don't you think the killing of important Chinese leaders and soldiers inside Taiwan might push Beijing towards a violent reaction?

"Undoubtedly, there will be a response, but I believe it will be limited and calculated. China does not possess the capability to confront the United States militarily directly. As for Russia, it knows that any confrontation with the West means mutual destruction. They will not risk an all-out war."

"That's a dangerous oversimplification of the situation. China and Russia don't need direct military confrontation. Instead, they might choose to drain the United States through proxy wars, isolate it economically, and foster new alliances that shift the global balance of power. This isn't just a military crisis, but a moment that could completely reshape the world order."

What about the international stance? How do other countries view this escalation?

"I believe most countries will feel terrified. Traditional allies like Japan and the Republic of Korea will rethink their reliance on American protection, while neutral countries will demand a swift diplomatic solution to prevent the crisis from worsening. As for America's rivals, they might see this as an opportunity to rebalance the world."

"On the contrary, allies will cling more tightly to the United States. This operation proved that America is capable of protecting its interests and those of its partners. The world needs strong leadership, and the United States showed today it is up to the responsibility."

We conclude with a question for you both: What is the next step you expect? Professor Harris?

"There must be urgent diplomatic action. If the major powers don't move to find political solutions, we will see more escalation and retaliatory strikes, which could lead to an uncontainable global catastrophe."

"The next step is clear: The United States must reinforce its superiority and prepare for any possible scenario. Diplomacy is an option, but it must come from a position of strength."

Thank you both, Professor Jonathan Harris and Colonel Richard MacKenzie, for this insightful discussion. It seems the world stands on a dangerous precipice, and it remains to be seen how events will unfold in the coming days. Thank you for watching, stay with us for more exclusive coverage.

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...The company provides potable water at competitive prices starting from three dollars per liter, varying by quantity. Drop of Life, available now in __ [static] __ Ladies and gentlemen, we apologize for interrupting the current program, but we have just received urgent reports of a serious event that could change the course of the current global escalation. Following circulating leaks that appeared on unofficial Russian screens, we now have confirmed information from reliable sources in the US Department of Defense. According to these sources, a joint Chinese-Russian force managed to seize control of an American Ohio-class nuclear submarine while it was near the western Malaysian coast. The submarine, carrying top-tier strategic offensive capabilities, including long-range nuclear missiles, fell into the grip of Chinese-Russian forces after a complex naval encounter. Initial reports indicate the use of sophisticated electronic techniques to disable the submarine's systems and gain control during combat, forcing it to surface where it was detained by military vessels belonging to the Sino-Russian alliance. Meanwhile, the US National Security Council is meeting in an emergency session inside the White House. Our sources indicate the US President will deliver an address to the nation within the coming hours, where he is expected to announce Washington's official position on this unprecedented escalation. Initial reactions within Washington reflect a state of anger and shock. A high-ranking Pentagon official described the seizure of the submarine as an explicit declaration of war, asserting that the American response will be decisive and swift. We now go to our correspondent in front of the Pentagon. What details do you have?

"Yes, we are here in front the Department of Defense, where an atmosphere of unprecedented tension prevails. Currently, information remains scarce, but our sources inside the Pentagon confirm that the military leadership is considering all possible response options, including direct and unconventional military options. The main concern here relates not only to the nuclear capabilities the submarine carries but also to the presence of sensitive intelligence information aboard. If China and Russia succeed in breaching this data, this incident could become not just a direct military threat, but also an intelligence catastrophe, placing Washington in an extremely dangerous position. There are unconfirmed reports that the Pentagon has ordered Sixth Fleet units to move towards the Pacific Ocean, which could indicate preparations for an imminent military response!"

The world today stands before a pivotal moment that could reshape the international order. Will we witness an escalation leading to open confrontation between the superpowers? Or will diplomatic channels manage to contain this explosive tension? We will stay with you around the clock to cover any new developments. Stay with us.

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Path of Goodness, we bring you this breaking news reflecting the strength of Sino-Russian will in confronting continuous American provocations. A few hours ago, joint Chinese-Russian forces succeeded in executing a precise and unprecedented naval operation, during which they managed to seize control of an advanced American nuclear submarine that was illegally present near the Malaysian coast. This submarine, carrying targeted nuclear missiles threatening Chinese national security, was disabled and brought under control using the latest artificial intelligence technologies, forcing it to surface, where it came under the complete control of the joint forces. This decisive military operation confirms beyond doubt China's and Russia's capability to counter any external threat or aggression. The American submarine, which represented a direct danger to regional stability, is now fully in our possession, with its crew and weapons transferred to secure locations to assess the situation and take appropriate measures. Mr. Li Wang, strategic relations expert, what message are China and Russia sending through this achievement?

"This operation is a strong and clear warning: American aggression will not go unanswered. China and Russia are capable of breaking American military arrogance, and whoever threatens our national security will face dire consequences. What happened today is the initial response to the blatant American aggression the world witnessed against Taiwan. The United States, which chose to use nuclear weapons to destroy an entire city, revealed its true face as a source of threat to global stability, and now, the time for response has come. Seizing the nuclear submarine represents a strategic opportunity to understand the weaknesses of American military technology and enhance deterrence against any future attack. Meanwhile, senior Chinese and Russian military leaders are meeting to determine the next steps."

The message is clear: the era of American hegemony is over. The world today witnesses the emergence of a new alliance capable of facing any threat, an alliance putting an end to decades of American arrogance. The United States, which chose to destroy Taiwan mercilessly, will face the consequences, and American crimes will not pass without response. Stay tuned for more exclusive coverage as soon as updates arrive. We are here to bring you the truth, without distortion, and without falsification. Stay with us.

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Welcome back. We continue with you in this discussion about the escalating international developments, especially the expected Chinese response after the US nuclear strike on Taiwan, and the seizure of an American nuclear submarine by joint Chinese-Russian forces. Professor Harris, let's start with you. What do you expect now from China? Will the response be diplomatic or military?

"I don't think there's room for diplomacy anymore. The nuclear strike on Taiwan was a direct insult to China, especially after the killing of prominent military leaders there. If we add the submarine incident, we find that China and Russia now feel strong and confident. The coming response will be military, but it won't be conventional. We might witness comprehensive cyberattacks, or precision strikes on American bases in the Pacific."

"Let me clarify something. Any direct military response from China or Russia would be tantamount to suicide. The United States is prepared, and we have the necessary military and technological superiority to contain any threat. The submarine? An unfortunate incident, yes, but we know how to regain control."

"You underestimate China and Russia, and that's a grave strategic error! Their seizure of the nuclear submarine is more than just an incident; it's a show of force and a clear message to the world that the United States is no longer in a position of absolute control."

"With all due respect, Professor, messages don't change facts, and the facts say Washington is still capable of crushing any direct threat. China might try escalation, but it will quickly realize this path is not in its favor."

Ladies and gentlemen, I see we have an extremely urgent development. Both Iran and Japan have just announced in an official joint statement their joining the Sino-Russian alliance against the United States. Iran confirmed it will provide comprehensive military and logistical support, while Japan dropped a bombshell by siding with China, citing its disappointment with American policy in Asia. At the same time, reports confirm Washington has begun forming an international military coalition including European nations, other Asian allies, and some Arab states, in an attempt to counter the new alliance. It seems we are witnessing the first moments of a Third World War. What are your thoughts on this? Colonel MacKenzie?

"This is clear betrayal by Japan, and a strategic shock! But it won't change reality. The United States, with its allies in Europe, Asia, and the Arab world, remains the number one superpower. We have the military, technological, and economic superiority necessary to crush any rival coalition. This escalation is dangerous, yes, but it doesn't mean China, Russia, and their allies can win this confrontation."

"This announcement means we have passed the point of no return. Alliances are forming rapidly, and the coming confrontation won't be just military, but also economic, political, and environmental. But what frightens me more is that this escalation will inevitably lead to wider use of nuclear weapons. Each side is now mustering its strength, and the victims will be in the millions."

"Professor, enough with this catastrophic tone! We are in a position of strength, and the new coalition lacks the resources and sufficient military capability to confront our alliance."

"Strength alone isn't the solution, Colonel MacKenzie. We are heading towards humanity's total destruction. This is not the time for military displays, but time to think about the future of the entire planet."

Dear viewers, apologies again for the interruption, but we have a second extremely serious development. Minutes ago, at the exact moment the previous statement was issued, Sino-Russian alliance forces launched an extremely intense strike on the US naval base in Guam, one of the largest and most important American military bases in the Pacific. Initial sources confirm partial destruction occurred, and numerous strategic facilities were hit, including air defense systems, logistical facilities, and command rooms. Meanwhile, China issued an official statement, which read: 'This operation is a direct response to American provocations in Shanghai. Any future American strike on Sino-Russian alliance territories will be met with even greater force. We are prepared to wage nuclear war if the United States desires it, but we refuse to be the direct cause of the planet's destruction.' And the final sentence was surprising: 'Although we possess the American nuclear submarine, we chose not to use it against the United States, because we fear for the safety of humanity.' Let's now return to our esteemed guests for their opinions on this unprecedented escalation. Professor Harris, how do you view this move by China and its message indicating refusal to use the nuclear submarine despite having the capability?

"I see that China, despite everything that has happened, is acting rationally amidst this crisis. The strike on Guam is a major escalation, yes, but it's a natural response to clear American provocation and intervention. As for their refusal to use the nuclear submarine, this shows they recognize the dangers of entering an all-out nuclear war. This is a clear message: China wants to send a strong warning, but it doesn't seek to destroy humanity, according to their claim."

"Rationality?! A clear message?! Do you hear yourself?! They destroyed an American base! This isn't a defensive act; it's another explicit declaration of war! And how dare you describe China as rational? These are the same people who detained our submarine and its crew, and threatened nuclear war!"

"And what about the American nuclear strike on Taiwan?! How do you justify this brutal act? China didn't nuke Taiwan, nor did it do what the United States did! They are only responding to unprovoked aggression!"

"This is nonsense! You speak as if defending them! The United States did what it had to do to protect its national security. China is the one who ignited the crisis with its political moves in Taiwan and its pursuit of controlling technology there."

"And you defend the killing of millions of innocent civilians for no reason! Nuclear war is not a solution, and every escalatory step takes us closer to total destruction! China, at least, shows restraint in some aspects!"

"Restraint?! Are you blind or a Chinese agent?! This talk is treasonous! You defend those who killed our soldiers and destroyed our base!"

"And you, with your narrow military mentality, are pushing the world towards the abyss! Do you think responding in kind is the solution? The world needs dialogue, not continuous escalation!"

"You understand nothing about reality! This world isn't run by idealistic speeches, but by power! And with this talk, you betray your country!"

"And you betray humanity and the entire planet!"

Ladies and gentlemen, please, let's maintain our composure...

"I am trying to preserve my country, indeed save it from the madness led by mentalities like yours!"

"You are a disgrace to this studio, and to all of America!"

That's enough! Dear viewers, we apologize for this unprofessional scene. We will return shortly to follow more developments.

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Welcome back to our ongoing special coverage of this escalating global crisis. Developments continue to unfold, and the international scene grows more complex. To discuss potential scenarios, joining us now is political analyst Dr. Jonathan Collins, expert in international relations and geopolitics. Dr. Collins, thank you for being with us. Let's begin directly: After the intense Chinese strike on the American base in Guam, and the message from Chinese leaders affirming their readiness for nuclear war while simultaneously avoiding excessive escalation, how do you see the shape of the upcoming American response?

"Thank you for having me. This is a difficult time for all of us to understand the major repercussions of what is happening. The American response will not be simple. Guam isn't just a military base; it's a vital part of the United States' ability to conduct its military operations in the Pacific. Washington will certainly respond, but how it responds depends on several factors: Will there be direct military strikes on Chinese facilities? Or will the United States try to use economic and diplomatic pressure to expand the isolation of the Sino-Russian Union? Considering the current administration, I believe the response will be multi-faceted and strongly worded. We might see a rapid movement of additional forces to the conflict zone, imposition of broad economic sanctions, and perhaps greater support for Taiwan and supporting forces as a clear message."

But can Washington risk a direct military response against China, especially after its threat of readiness for nuclear war?

"This is a sensitive point. The United States realizes China is not a country that can be easily weakened. Direct military response means the possibility of unprecedented escalation that could end in nuclear catastrophe. For this reason, I believe Washington might initially focus on building a strong international coalition that puts China under multilateral pressure."

Speaking of alliances, China now surprisingly has support from Russia, Iran, and Japan. On the other hand, the United States is working to rally Europe, some Asian and Arab countries, and currently relies on Korea, NATO, the Gulf states, and its forces operating in East China. How do these alliances affect the world order, in your opinion?

"These alliances reshape the world order in a way we haven't witnessed since World War II. The Sino-Russian alliance is militarily and economically strong, and the presence of Iran and Japan adds strategic weight. In contrast, the coalition being built by the United States primarily relies on the economic and diplomatic power of NATO and EU countries, in addition to support from the Middle East and some Asian nations that still view China as a threat."

How will this affect the world, especially countries not involved in this conflict?

"Neutral countries will face immense pressure. The major powers will use all available means to recruit support from as many countries as possible. Small and developing nations might be forced to take a stance, either through economic incentives or military threats. But the most prominent impact will be economic. The world will witness tremendous economic turmoil due to mutual sanctions and disruption of global supply chains. Uninvolved countries will be significantly affected by rising energy and food prices, and might find themselves in internal political crises as a result of external economic pressures."

Considering the current escalation, do you believe we are truly on the cusp of a Third World War?

"Unfortunately, all indicators suggest we are at the beginning of what could be a world war. Military escalations, fiery threats, reshaping of international alliances—all are elements present before the previous two world wars. But what distinguishes this conflict is the presence of modern technology, like cyber warfare and drones, which could make the conflict less conventional and more complex. However, if any party slips into using nuclear weapons, there will be no return."

And is there a way out of this escalation?

"The only way out is to return to the negotiation table. Both sides need strong international mediators capable of talking to all parties. The United Nations, despite its current weakness, could play a role here, alongside countries like India and Brazil which might be acceptable as mediators. But amidst the inflamed nationalistic feelings on all sides, achieving this might be very difficult. The world must realize we are facing a defining moment in human history, and escalation will only lead to an unprecedented catastrophe. Leaders must exercise wisdom and humanity, or everyone will pay the price."

Is this the final distress call to save humanity? Is our fate now hanging on the decision of several madmen who managed to reach power with our support and despite our opposition? Rather, what everyone must constantly ask, the question that must receive the greatest concern from now on, is: Will we actually survive?

(16)

That was the last disc in the long package, and when its words ended, it cast a lengthy thread stretching meters forward, seen by no one but me. Its beginning was arrogant, swollen with pride and charged with foolishness. The United States reigned with the illusion of absolute superiority, standing atop a world it tried to shape according to its iron will, preventing any other party from achieving power or influence. The decision to strike Taiwan with a nuclear bomb wasn't just a military step, but a terrible declaration carrying a clear message in its essence: We will not allow anyone to surpass us. Pride was fuel for madness, a moment they imagined everything could be settled with a single explosion. With all pride comes recklessness, and there was no time to think about consequences. Cries of warning were lost in the political noise and strategic interests, and fears drowned in the intoxication of the euphoria of control: Striking Taiwan wasn't just an attack on a city, but an attack on an idea, on a connected world, on a shared human mind.

What began as a preemptive act ignited the flames of conflict, and its tongues continued to spread until the final curtain fell, revealing the background clearly: China and Russia, then Japan and Iran, gathered in a vortex of overwhelming rage. The strike on the Guam base wasn't just a military response, but the cry of a deep wound, a cry of war, uttered by leaders with aggressive, grim faces. Anger was additional fuel in the blazing fire, widening its path, drawing the lines of alliances, uniting old enemies in shared hatred.

Then came fear, and after it regret, and then silence. Silence came late, but it was closer than anyone imagined, as only ashes finally remained. In deserted meeting rooms, where political debates once raged over decisions and fates, only terrified whispers remained, echoing the final question: How did we get here? Regret was bitter, but it saved no one from the inevitable end.

The world they knew had ended, and ruin became a permanent color under a sky that witnessed only its final agony. And perhaps we, who coincidentally remained to witness such unique stories, were just faint shadows of endings that should not have happened.

But the thread didn't end; rather, it extended additional meters beyond the metal sheet, invisible to those not searching for it. Its first of three pieces carried the symbol of struggle, for life refused to be extinguished easily. Deep in the rubble, in the forgotten corners of the world, the first sparks pulsed with resistance: green algae clinging to black stones, insects settling in the ruins, new water flowing over the devastation. Nature was resisting as it always had. As for the middle piece, there was healing. A hundred years passed, and the planet began to mend slowly, but it was definitely mending. New trees rose from the heart of the dead earth, small animals that resisted radiation appeared and returned to roam silent expanses, and the oceans, once empty even of waves, teemed with life again. Healing was slow, but it wasn't an option; it was law. Earth didn't need humans to continue. Yet, this wasn't the final victory for nature as it might seem. Poisonous dust carried by the wind reached the newborn buds, and soon another law, harsher than extinction itself, was revealed: everything born here, until it adapts to the scene, will not live more than four days.

Then came the final part, the part I couldn't look at without my eyes tearing up until they reddened: oblivion. All the wars, pride, anger, perhaps love in a lost phase of memory—all dissolved into time. Nothing remained of them but buried dust and non-decaying scrap, just like the metal sheet that protects us. What remained before us wasn't a shattered world, but a world that no longer held any memory of humans, just a blank page waiting for a new story to be written on it. Perhaps our story.

(17)

Two snatched the disc player from the ground in front of me. She stood up, her lips tightly drawn horizontally without any other features allowing me to understand what she was trying to do. Perhaps she was angry. I was sure of it when she slammed the player onto the ground with all her might, along with the pack of discs, then kicked them far away with her foot. Her breath hitched, she rushed forward, then returned and sat beside me. I didn't feel sad at all, nor did I pay any attention to those discs. The message they contained was nothing but a catastrophic tale that must be erased, not remembered and repeated with every new creature that comes here. This useless past is just additional torment for your heart. She said to me, staring at the shattered discs with eyes burning with anger: "Don't cry over them! Whoever sets his house ablaze with his own hands, then stands afar watching it burn, smiling boastfully, doesn't deserve prayers recited for him. War isn't a sudden event nor a departure from human nature; rather, it's the direct result of an accumulation of wrong choices over long centuries. Humans, in their constant pursuit of hegemony and control, created imbalanced political and economic systems that fed and sustained conflicts. History proves, and recordings testify, that major wars aren't just fleeting mistakes, but mechanisms for reshaping powers that had already reached the breaking point."

I interrupted her, feeling some anger stir within me: "You're holding humans fully responsible for what happened, and that's not fair at all!"

She looked directly at me with a stern gaze, as if I had wronged a clear truth beyond debate, then said with unnatural calmness: "And why shouldn't I hold them fully responsible? Not only because they irresponsibly developed their technical and military capabilities to unprecedented levels, but because they always lacked the collective will to prevent disaster. They let national selfishness control their decisions and define their narrow interests, ignored the clear lessons of history that punished them on every page for what they did. Everyone failed to think long-term and about the major consequences, whether political leaders, military figures, academics and researchers, or even ordinary citizens."

She fell silent for a moment and caught her breath, as if gathering her thoughts or perhaps her emotions, then continued in a slightly quieter voice, but still sharp as a blade: "At some stage, they could have begun gradual comprehensive disarmament of all nations, under strict supervision by a supreme peaceful institution. They could have built a balanced world order preventing unilateral decisions leading to wars. They could have directed the global economy towards infrastructure, education, and environmental preservation instead of military spending. They could have promoted moral and philosophical education, absorbed history as a means to avoid mistakes, and enacted firm penalties against any violations. But if we look closely at human history, we realize these changes were nearly impossible, not because of the complexity of solutions, but because of deep-seated human resistance to change. Leaders won't give up their power, nations won't relinquish their sovereignty. And herein lies the true human tragedy: humans possessed the ability to see their fate clearly, but were utterly incapable of changing it."

We fell silent after her words for moments, while our eyes remained fixed on the discs scattered broken on the ground before us, like remnants of a bygone world, a world from which nothing remained but bitter memories and the trace of irreversible wrong human choices. I stretched out my legs and pushed my body forward until I was lying on the ground. I had no answer to give her, bewildered in choosing decisive words to refute her appalling argument, until Four spoke suddenly: "You say this now, pointlessly, after everything has ended. No one is left outside to comprehend your words, and they wouldn't hear you even if hearing sound were possible. Those who built the towering buildings, turned deserts into green gardens, ultimately chose to crush themselves under the weight of their pride. It wasn't nuclear bombs that killed them, but the arrogance, selfishness, and fear that nested in all their hearts. And now, green will cover their cities, and the earth will not mourn their absence. They could never realize how generous it was with them."

She fell silent, accompanied by a tear she tried to hide. After moments, she returned to muttering in a faint, trembling voice: "If only you had given mercy a chance... if only you had paused a little... perhaps, perhaps..."

Then she broke down crying before finishing. I hated humans so much that if I had been there then, I would have wished for the war to continue until they went extinct as actually happened, and wouldn't have stopped it as Two wanted. I saw now, and understood clearly, how the extinction of humanity was the optimal choice to solve all their problems. Two's firm words cut through the sound of crying when she said in a dry tone: "Have you two rested? We need to get back to work before the day ends."

I answered her in an annoyed, grumbling voice: "What a hasty, persistent nag you are! What good will rushing do you?!"

But she completely ignored my words, just stood up slowly and steadily, then stared at me with strange calmness. Her face was devoid of any features as usual, and to be honest, her calmness at that moment became truly frightening. She conveyed to me with her gaze a terrifying message that seeped deep into all parts of my heart, until I almost felt she would pounce on me, killing me, if I didn't stand up now willingly to follow her. How pitiful I am, she directs me however she wishes with a single glance.

(18)

I never thought inspecting the doomed aircraft from the inside would require all the effort we expended without realizing it. We sank deep into it, accompanied by a silent desire to avoid conversation, and it continued for long hours of hard work, lasting even until sunrise. The advanced technology we found in our hands at that moment was greater than Two and Four, or even I, imagined finding, but this didn't simplify the work; rather, it complicated it further. When you research something completely removed from your scientific background, you quickly reach a futile conclusion: studying it is pointless. And so we stopped. We had to find a simpler clue to understand the construction method of that massive metal engine, which looked more like a cube of internal chambers alternately opening and closing, full of delicate, sensitive gears. All this, for a single desire we placed amidst those lost hours: trying to improve and develop the engine to be capable of penetrating Earth's atmosphere and saving what remained of the ship. But without an engine, insisting on surviving here forever is more absurd than trying to understand this thing itself.

I was the last to leave the warm inner chamber, dripping with sweat, after a final moment contemplating the immensity of the central core, and the ingenious connection method between the front parts and those under the wings. There was an amazing coordination between the elements, working with superior integration without needing a separate large body. Every space was utilized to achieve a perfect form that didn't interfere with the aircraft's mechanism but enhanced it. Unlike our ship, the aircraft didn't keep elements separate in independent chambers but integrated them in an interconnected loop, like a single connected piece inside a monolithic chamber of random shape. I named it the central core, as mentioned at the beginning. It's controlled from a single cockpit, directly connected to the main computer, which is actually the mind responsible for checking and controlling everything.

In the end, I left, compelled. And as I was leaving, it seemed as if wires floated around me, trying to pull me to stay, as if I might get stuck there forever. If I had the choice, perhaps I would have. I would have enjoyed spending years drawing diagrams for this engineering marvel, instead of burning the entire experience searching for a ridiculous clue. My philosophy sees the writer, who invents words to describe a complex scene like a ship falling from space, as a great engineer capable of building an aircraft from nothing.

I jumped down onto the grassy ground, forcing the wires to leave my world, only to find a hand extending towards me, real this time, bringing me back to my world. It was Four's hand, her gaze burning with the same passion I had possessed moments ago, as if she saw something in my eyes she had already realized: "How wondrous it was inside. Did you love it?"

Then she continued, her voice dreamy: "I am eager to build one with you, and fly it far away, high, in the sky, among the stars."

But the aircraft was more like a nightmare to me, its weight surpassing mere description as wondrous. I don't deny it's a true engineering marvel, and how I wished to stay beside it. But in the end, it's nothing but a rusty metal sheet that won't get us off this planet, and I don't even know if we are capable of developing it to achieve that impossible dream. The problem isn't our ability to modify, but the limits of the vehicle itself. It's a single idea that crossed my mind since we first saw it and Four spoke of leaving: If its makers, humans, left it here to be buried in despair, then invented space rockets to travel off-planet, why should we waste our time trying to develop it, instead of starting to build a space rocket from scratch?

We left the metal tomb as the sun rose. And what we left behind, that entity which surpassed the mere symbolism of an inhabited home, wasn't a banner raised calling for freedom with every tour, but a featherless bird, whose function was confined to bringing dreams down to earth, without any regard for their owners. It was a killing machine made to participate in the catastrophe that led to human extinction. We delved deeper into the tale than necessary, forgetting to ask ourselves the most important question: Were humans even able to travel off-planet in the first place? We still don't have an answer. Consequently, asserting whether relying on their technology is a sound idea or not remains purely a mystery that swallows time, leading us towards more unanswerable questions.