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Json and the beach party struggled for days to make their way up the coast. For the most part, it was quiet, hot, and more of a survival against the elements, rather than against the robots or AI. On the fifth day, the entire team was suffering from dehydration and sunburn.
Astrid spotted the ring of light on the horizon. No one understood what lay ahead. As they walked for most of the blazing hot afternoon, inspired by the goal ahead, the mirage of hope, the Temple of the Moon rose up before them. It appeared to have power. The ring of light was the only marking on the building. Most of the team had no idea what they were approaching. Json had a few ideas.
His dad had mentioned the various ministries that apparently controlled the Earth’s resources. The Temple of the Moon managed cooling and weather for what was left of humanity. It appeared the system was still up and running.
As the team straggled up the beach, Astrid began singing. “Everybody wants to rule the world.” There was no way it was an accident. Json immediately locked down the security.
“Perimeter secure, now! Go!”
It was an immediate reaction. A trauma response to Tears for Fears or some hidden awareness that Astrid’s connection was a threat. She continued singing. Haunting. She appeared happy and playful, splashing and kicking the shallow ocean waves. It was a fever dream.
She bolted ahead of the group toward the temple.
“Astrid! Stop!”
She didn’t hear. She was re-tuned to a different frequency.
“Astrid!”
A few of the women from the group took off after the young girl spinning ahead in the surf. Panic was beginning to flash through the group. Something was happening.
The three of women running after Astrid were twenty yards behind. None of them called out to the young girl. They were focused. Afraid. In battle-ready mode.
The bright white ring appeared to be floating between two buildings as the entire team rushed forward. A massive bang of thunder clapped and brought everyone to their knees. Astrid fell face-first into the warm waves and stayed facedown.
The ring blazed angry red and lit up the shore with heat and light. Json could hardly make out the group of women pulling Astrid upright from the waves.
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