CHAPTER 1 – Centuries Later in the New World
Centuries had passed since life began in the New World. After the Great Selection, everyone who survived was recognized as a citizen of Earth. In this new order, where people no longer harmed one another, technology was no longer used to gain power, wage war, or control others. Scientific research focused on extending human life and eliminating health problems.
When Marduk completed his final space mission, the Galactic Federation assigned him to inspect life on Earth. He would examine how the system established after the Great Selection was functioning, how people lived their daily lives, and how the islands interacted with one another.
After completing his work at the Federation and returning to Earth, Marduk arrived at his home on Florida Island, part of the American Island Community. Their home was in the former Jacksonville region. During the Great Devastation, tectonic activity triggered by the eruption of Yellowstone had transformed the geography of the region. Jacksonville, once largely flat and close to sea level, was now a high, mountainous area.
Marduk would make the inspection journey with his wife, Emma, and their son, Cenk. His first assignment would take place in the American Island Community, where they lived.
