Empire Reborn (Taran Empire Saga Book 1): A Cadicle Space Opera by A.K. DuBoff (jenna bush book club TXT) 📕

“I can’t begin to guess how time-consuming and challenging that must be,” the interviewer said.

“Oh, extremely. And there have been several times when it seemed like it was inevitable the ruse would collapse, but it’s managed to persist.”

“I have to ask… Roswell?”

He smiled. “Yes, that was one of ours, though it didn’t happen quite how everyone thinks. It’s interesting, actually. There have been a number of leaders over the years who’ve vowed to make a formal disclosure of everything they learn about alien collaboration during their time in power, but not one has followed through on that promise. We—being the Taran Empire—haven’t outright forbidden disclosure, but we always lay out the case for why public knowledge of the Empire’s existence hasn’t historically been in the best interest of the people of Earth.”

“And why is that?”

“Because, before now, Earth wouldn’t have been granted a seat at the table. It’s a simple argument, which is why it was successful for so long. What it came down to is that once people found out about the Empire and all of the technology and mobility it could offer, they’d want to be a part of it. To have it so close and be denied would be torture. The world would tear itself apart, with groups blaming each other for being the reason Earth wasn’t allowed back into the fold.”

The interviewer’s brows drew together in thought. “Why the change of heart now to grant that role on the galactic stage?”

“It has become too time-consuming and expensive to maintain the old ways,” Wil admitted. “If global war breaks out, so be it. I’d be saddened, mind you, but I have more important battles to fight right now. Every culture needs a defining crisis. This will be Earth’s greatest challenge. Can the people unite for the sake of survival, or will petty differences prove too divisive to overcome?”

“I hope it brings everyone together. I believe I speak for the planet as I share that sentiment.”

“It is my sincere wish,” Wil agreed. “What gives me faith is that many people have been learning to think for themselves. The more adamant official reports were that there weren’t aliens made people convinced that there was a cover-up. Funny how that works. It’s why, as a leader, I’ve always tried to be as open and transparent as possible. The more adamantly you try to get people to look one direction, the harder they’ll look in the other. So, the real secrets aren’t mentioned at all.

“Notice the stories of close encounters on Earth were all about little gray aliens, or reptiles in human skin-suits, or any manner of other exotic forms. But rarely were their claims of alien people who looked almost indistinguishable from humans; those stories existed, of course, but they were never the first thing that came to mind when someone said ‘alien’. So, the TSS and others charged with maintaining the secret were able to remain in the shadows. The mystique of the ‘men in black’ was the most notoriety we ever got, but even that was so warped from the reality of the situation that people became blind to the truth.”

The interviewer nodded. “The reality is so contrary to everything else. Most alien lore centers about Earth being an island, which exotic alien beings found and began studying humans like a novel species. But the knowledge that the Taran ancestors of Earth humans willingly gave up their galactic lives to be isolated on that island is a whole other matter. It flies in the face of the outward-looking mentality that is so important in modern culture.”

All right, I think I like this guy. Wil considered his response. “Everything is cyclical. We’ve seen vacillation between expansionist and isolationist cultural tendencies throughout the Empire’s existence. It so happens that Earth’s present interests align with the rest of the Taran Empire’s, so this is the best opportunity we’ve had for millennia to reunite these divergent branches of people.”

“I, for one, am looking forward to seeing what our people can share with one another.”

“As am I.” Wil bowed his head. “To that end, we will soon be rolling out implementation of a planetary shield for Earth to protect against asteroids and other potential hazards. It is but the first of many advanced technologies we will begin sharing with you. Your world health authorities are also vetting medical nanotech we would like to make available. If approved, it’s fair to say that common disease will be a thing of the past.”

“Remarkable.” The interviewer smiled broadly. “Can you tell us a little more about how this technology works?”

After another fifteen minutes, the discussion finally wrapped up.

“Thank you for the enlightening conversation,” the interviewer said. “I appreciate your thoughtful insights.”

“Gladly. I hope your report helps set people at ease.”

“It’s been quite a ride over the last few days, that’s for sure!” He laughed. “I think we’ll get there.”

“I believe so, too. Please, reach out if you have any follow-up questions.”

“I will. Thank you again.”

Wil ended the transmission and collapsed back in his chair. “I don’t know how many more of these I can do this week,” Wil said telepathically to Saera; she was in her office a short way down the hall.

A few seconds later, she entered his office with a smile. “You’re doing great. She closed the door behind her and walked over to his desk.

“I appreciate your cheerleading.”

She sat down on the inside lip of his desk facing him. “You’re pulling off an incredible thing. I never thought my homeworld would get to be a part of this deep, ancient culture I now get to live in every day.”

“It should have been you making contact, not me.” He looked into her jade eyes.

She shrugged. “Nah, not my scene. You’re way better at