《The Umbrella Continent: Shadows of a forgotten Earth.》 Chapter 1: Awakening in Aetheris. ¡°It¡¯s 8:00 AM, Madam Zahara. Please wake up.¡± A sharp, mechanical voice pierced through the fog of my consciousness, jolting me awake. My heart raced as I struggled to pry my eyes open. ''Wait¡­ wasn¡¯t I dead?'' The last thing I remembered was the searing heat of flames, the acrid smell of smoke, and the jeering faces of the Alliance soldiers as they filmed my execution. I was Safi Amy, a Ugandan activist who had fought for the rights of non-Africans during the extremist Alliance¡¯s reign of terror. I had been burned alive, a warning to anyone who dared defy their ideology. So why was I waking up now? And who was Zahara? I opened my eyes, but darkness surrounded me. ¡°Why is it so dark?¡± I muttered, more to myself than anyone else. My hands clawed at the soft surface beneath me, which I assumed was a bed. The texture was unfamiliar¡ªluxuriously smooth, like silk, yet warm and comforting. No sooner had the words left my lips than the room flooded with light. I blinked, startled, as my surroundings came into focus. I was lying in an enormous bed, its sheets as soft as wool and as smooth as silk. To my left, a delicate window stretched from floor to ceiling, its translucent glass offering a breathtaking view of a lush garden. Pine trees swayed gently in the breeze, their needles glistening under the morning sun. Roses of every color bloomed in perfect harmony, tended to by an elderly woman who moved with the grace of someone who had spent a lifetime nurturing beauty. The air was crisp and fresh, carrying the faint scent of flowers and the distant murmur of a serene world. ''Was this heaven?'' It certainly felt like it. After the pain and suffering I had endured in my past life, this tranquility felt like a reward. But even as I marveled at the peace around me, I felt no regret for the choices I had made. If given another chance, I would have fought just as fiercely for what I believed in. ¡°Please note that you have one hour to exercise, have breakfast, and prepare for school,¡± the mechanical voice announced, cutting through my thoughts. I sat up sharply, my eyes darting around the room. ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± I demanded, my voice tinged with both curiosity and unease. The room was vast, its walls adorned with intricate patterns that seemed to shimmer faintly in the light. Everything was meticulously organized¡ªa desk with a sleek, translucent surface, a wardrobe that seemed to blend seamlessly into the wall, and a carpet so plush it felt like walking on clouds. But there was no one in sight. ¡°I am Povi, your personal assistant,¡± the voice replied, its tone smooth and almost human-like. ¡°I was specially selected by Mr. and Mrs. Nia to cater to your needs.¡± This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Nia?¡± I echoed, my confusion deepening. ¡°I don¡¯t know anyone by that name. And where are you? I can hear you, but I can¡¯t see you.¡± ¡°I am in your brain. Mr. and Mrs. Nia are your parents,¡± Povi explained matter-of-factly. ¡°Every citizen of Aetheris is born with a neural chip that allows them to communicate with their personal assistant. My voice is audible only to you.¡± I froze, my mind struggling to process this information. A neural chip? Aetheris? None of this made sense. The last thing I remembered was the Alliance¡¯s brutality, the flames consuming my body, and the world fading to black. And now I was here, in this utopian setting, with a voice in my head claiming I was alive and well. ¡°I should be dead,¡± I whispered, more to myself than to Povi. ¡°That¡¯s for sure.¡± ¡°According to my observations, you are very much alive,¡± Povi replied. ¡°With the exercise and health regimen I have designed for you, you can expect to live up to 200 years or more, provided you follow my instructions.¡± ¡°Two hundred years?¡± I blurted out, my voice rising in disbelief. ¡°That¡¯s impossible! No one lives that long. And what is Aetheris? I¡¯m Ugandan, from the African continent, not¡­ whatever this is.¡± ¡°Aetheris is the only landmass on Earth,¡± Povi explained, as if this were common knowledge. ¡°The average life expectancy here is 200 years, thanks to advancements in technology and medicine. As for Uganda, I have no records of that place in my database,¡± I stumbled out of bed, my legs carrying me effortlessly across the room. This body felt foreign yet familiar, as if it had been waiting for me all along. I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and froze. The reflection staring back at me was not my own. Gone was the haggard, weary face of a woman who had spent years fighting for survival. In its place was the face of a young woman with striking features¡ªcaramel skin that glowed with health, full lips, a button nose, and large, expressive brown eyes. Her hair was wrapped in a translucent bonnet that seemed to defy gravity, floating gently above her head. The body was tall and slender, with a lithe, athletic build that spoke of a life free from hardship. I reached out to touch the mirror, half-expecting the image to vanish like a mirage. But the reflection mimicked my movements, confirming that this was indeed me¡ªor rather, the body I now inhabited. ¡°Is this¡­ rebirth?¡± I whispered, my voice trembling. Memories of my friend Anush flooded my mind. She had believed in reincarnation, often joking that we would be reborn into a world of peace and beauty. I had laughed it off at the time, but now, standing here in this strange, perfect world, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder if she had been right. ¡°Rebirth is not a concept recognized by the Federation,¡± Povi interjected, pulling me back to reality. ¡°Superstition is highly discouraged. Please refrain from discussing such topics outside this room.¡± I ignored Povi¡¯s warning, my mind racing with questions. What had happened to the world I knew? Where was Africa? And why did this place feel so eerily perfect? As I stood there, staring at the stranger in the mirror, a sense of determination began to stir within me. If this was a second chance, I wasn¡¯t going to waste it. I would uncover the truth about this strange place. But first, I had to survive in this strange new world¡ªand figure out who Zahara Nia really was. Chapter 2: 4014: The Trial of Level 8. ¡°What year are we in, Povi?¡± I asked slowly, my hands gripping the edges of the exquisitely decorated sink. The surface was cool and smooth, etched with intricate patterns that shimmered faintly under the soft light. My reflection in the mirror stared back at me¡ªa stranger with wide, uncertain eyes. ¡°4014,¡± Povi replied, her mechanical voice calm and matter-of-fact. My throat tightened, and my heart rate spiked. ''4014!''. That was over a thousand years into the future from 2045. My mind reeled at the revelation. Was rebirth even possible? How could I explain what was happening to me? The Alliance, the incinerator, the pain¡ªit all felt so real, so recent. And yet, here I was, standing in a body that wasn¡¯t mine, in a world that defied everything I knew. ¡°Mood fluctuations detected,¡± Povi interjected, her tone sharp. ¡°Please keep your emotions under control. Your heart rate should not exceed 100 beats per minute.¡± I forced myself to take a deep breath, trying to steady my racing thoughts. I couldn¡¯t afford to let my emotions betray me. If anyone discovered that the original owner of this body was gone, replaced by a woman from a thousand years in the past, I didn¡¯t know what would happen. And Povi¡ªwas she connected to some kind of surveillance system? Could she spy on my thoughts? ¡°You said I had to exercise first?¡± I asked, my voice firm and steady, masking the turmoil inside. ¡°Yes, Madam,¡± Povi replied. ¡°No need to call me Madam. Let¡¯s go to the training room,¡± I said, brushing off the formality. ¡°Command taken. What should I address you as now? You previously preferred to be called Madam,¡± Povi inquired. ¡°Sa¡ªI mean, Zahara is fine,¡± I corrected myself quickly, almost slipping. ¡°Your thinking seems to have slowed down today,¡± Povi noted, her tone almost teasing. ¡°How so?¡± I asked, pretending to be oblivious as I followed her instructions toward the training room. ¡°You used to wake up before 8:00 a.m., exercise, eat on time, put on your school uniform, and head to school without needing me for anything. Today seems¡­ different,¡± Povi observed. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say it yourself? You¡¯re meant to serve me until the day I pass on,¡± I replied with a soft chuckle, trying to deflect her observation. ¡°Technically, yes,¡± Povi conceded. ¡°Then starting today, I¡¯ll put you to good use,¡± I said, stepping into the spacious training room. The doors were massive, towering over me, made of a sleek, metallic material that seemed to hum faintly with energy. As I approached, a mechanical voice greeted me with familiarity, and the doors slid open with a soft hiss. If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. The room itself was unlike anything I had ever seen. It was vast, with walls that shimmered like liquid silver, reflecting the light in mesmerizing patterns. The floor was made of a material that felt firm yet slightly yielding underfoot, as if it could adapt to whatever was needed. In the corner stood a single, bright silver chair, flanked by two white towels and a water bottle. I expected to see gym equipment¡ªweights, treadmills, maybe even some futuristic machines¡ªbut the room was completely empty. ¡°Alright, let the training begin,¡± I said, trying to mask the fact that I had no idea what I was doing. ¡°You have to select the level, Zahara. Last time, you had already advanced to Level 8. You were challenging yourself to proceed to Level 9,¡± Povi explained. ¡°Oh, right. Let¡¯s go with that then¡ªLevel 8!¡± I declared, hoping I sounded confident. The moment the words left my mouth, the room transformed. The walls dissolved, and the floor beneath me shifted, morphing into a vast, arid desert. The air grew hot and dry, the sun blazing overhead. Sand stretched endlessly in every direction, and the silence was deafening. I looked around, my heart pounding. In the distance, I spotted two massive black wolves, their jaws caged with thick, metallic wires. A tall, lean man dressed in grey robes and a turban approached them, his movements deliberate and unhurried. He unchained the wolves, and the cages fell away. A cold wave of dread washed over me. ¡°Let the level begin,¡± the man said in a low, mechanical voice, different from Povi¡¯s. He stepped back, disappearing into the haze of the desert. ¡°It¡¯s just a game,¡± I muttered under my breath, trying to calm my nerves. ¡°Please get a weapon immediately,¡± Povi¡¯s voice cut through my thoughts. ¡°This is not a game. If you get hurt here, it will have a slight impact on your daily activities later.¡± ¡°What do you mean? Where are the weapons?¡± I asked, panic rising in my voice as I scanned the barren landscape. ¡°You advanced to Level 8, so you are eligible to summon any weapon you want,¡± Povi explained. In the distance, the wolves shook off their restraints, their eyes locking onto me with predatory focus. They charged, their powerful legs kicking up clouds of sand as they closed the distance with alarming speed. My heart raced. I couldn¡¯t outrun them. I needed a weapon¡ªnow. ¡°Summoning a gun!¡± I shouted, my voice echoing across the desert. During the Alliance regime, I had learned how to operate firearms. Surely, even in this futuristic world, guns would still exist. ¡°Weapon undetected by the system,¡± a mechanical voice replied, cold and impersonal. ¡°What?!¡± I screamed, my panic mounting. ¡°Bomb! I summon a bomb!¡± ¡°Weapon undetected by the system. One chance remaining for summoning weapons. Please select a weapon,¡± the voice intoned. Shit! The wolves were closing in, their snarls growing louder. I could see the glint of their teeth, the hunger in their eyes. My mind raced. What kind of weapons existed in this world? What could I summon that would stop them? I turned to face the wolves, my back straight, my hands clenched into fists. If I couldn¡¯t summon a weapon, I¡¯d have to fight them with my bare hands. I wasn''t a coward, if I was, I wouldn''t have burned to death! ¡°Summoning a blade!¡± I shouted, desperation fueling my voice. A shimmering, translucent sword materialized in my hand, its blade glowing faintly with blue light. It felt light yet solid, humming with energy. The wolves lunged. I swung the blade, my movements clumsy but determined. The first wolf dodged, but the second one caught the edge of the blade, yelping as it stumbled back. This wasn¡¯t a game. This was survival. And I wasn¡¯t going to die again. Chapter 3: Similarities. The sword was torn from my grip as the wolf¡¯s powerful jaws clamped down on the blade. The force of the pull sent me sprawling to the ground, the impact knocking the air from my lungs. Pain shot through my body as I groaned, struggling to push myself up. Povi hadn¡¯t lied¡ªthe pain was real, sharp and unrelenting. I scrambled to my knees, but before I could fully rise, the wolf lunged again. Its teeth sank into my hand, drawing blood. I screamed, the sound raw and guttural, as sweat dripped down my forehead. The metallic tang of blood filled the air, mixing with the acrid scent of the desert. ¡°How come you didn¡¯t use the teleportation technique you normally use? You¡¯re a master at it,¡± Povi¡¯s voice cut through my agony, calm and almost clinical. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say that earlier?¡± I shouted, my voice trembling with pain and frustration. ¡°How do I activate it?¡± ¡°Simply make a request followed by the location where you wish to teleport,¡± Povi replied, her tone infuriatingly composed. ¡°Requesting to teleport west!¡± I gasped, the words barely escaping through clenched teeth. In an instant, the world blurred around me. The snarling wolves, the scorching desert, the searing pain¡ªall of it vanished as I reappeared several meters away. But my relief was short-lived. My feet sank into the ground, the soft, shifting sand giving way beneath me. Quick sand. I cursed under my breath, struggling to move as the ground swallowed me inch by inch. My injured arm throbbed, blood dripping onto the sand as I fought to stay conscious. The irony wasn¡¯t lost on me¡ªI had been given a second chance at life, only to die in a simulated desert, trapped in quicksand. ¡°According to my assessment, it seems you won¡¯t be able to complete Level 8 at this time. The odds are against you. Why don¡¯t you exit the training and try again later?¡± Povi suggested, her voice as calm as ever. ¡°I can do that? Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier!¡± I yelled, my voice cracking with desperation. ¡°When you were 12, I warned you about the dangers of Level 4, but you were adamant and told me never to interrupt your training,¡± Povi replied, her tone almost reproachful. ¡°Exit training!¡± I shouted, my voice echoing across the desert. The world dissolved around me, the sand and the wolves fading into nothingness. I found myself lying on the soft yet firm floor of the training room, the pain in my hand still throbbing but no longer life-threatening. I softly sighed in relief. ¡°Your wounds should be tended to. Please head to the infirmary,¡± Povi instructed, her voice gentle but firm. A door I hadn¡¯t noticed before slid open on my left, seamlessly blending into the wall until it revealed a pristine white room. The infirmary was spotless, bathed in a soft, sterile light. In the center stood a sleek, futuristic machine that resembled an advanced X-ray device. Its surface gleamed with a metallic sheen, and a series of holographic displays floated above it, displaying incomprehensible data. ¡°Welcome once again, Madam Zahara. Please lie down,¡± a robotic voice greeted me, emanating from the machine itself. I approached cautiously, my eyes scanning the room. The walls were lined with panels that emitted a faint, soothing hum. I lay down on the machine¡¯s smooth surface, my body sinking slightly into its cushioned frame. Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator. The room dimmed, and a soft, baby-blue light enveloped me. I felt a brief sting on my injured hand, but the pain subsided almost instantly. The machine hummed softly, its holographic displays flickering as it worked. ¡°All done,¡± the robotic voice announced after a moment. I sat up, examining my hand. The deep gashes left by the wolf¡¯s teeth were gone, replaced by a faint scar that was already fading. A small compartment opened beside the machine, revealing two small, translucent tablets. ¡°Please take the medication. Your scar will disappear shortly,¡± the voice instructed. I picked up the tablets, marveling at their smooth, almost weightless texture. The compartment closed silently, and the room returned to its pristine state. Stepping out of the infirmary, I made my way to the kitchen, my mind still reeling from the events of the training room. The kitchen was a masterpiece of design, blending natural elements with cutting-edge technology. The walls were adorned with intricate patterns reminiscent of African art¡ªgeometric shapes and vibrant colors that seemed to shift and change as I moved. The countertops were made of a material that resembled polished wood but glowed faintly, as if infused with light. Above the sink, a holographic display projected images of the sun rising over a savanna, the golden light casting long shadows across the grass. The utensils were sleek and futuristic, their handles carved with designs of chimpanzees and other wildlife. It was a strange yet beautiful fusion of the familiar and the alien, a reminder of a world I once knew and one I was still struggling to understand. I poured myself a glass of water and swallowed the pills, their effects almost immediate as the last traces of the scar vanished from my hand. ¡°Povi, do chimpanzees exist in Aetheris?¡± I asked, my voice soft but curious. ¡°According to my assessment, there are approximately 5,000 chimpanzees in Aetheris, with 1,000 located in Region D,¡± Povi replied. ¡°What is Region D? Which countries are part of this region?¡± I pressed. ¡°There are no countries, only regions. Aetheris is divided into four regions: A, B, C, and D,¡± Povi explained. My mind raced with the implications. If chimpanzees existed here, and their natural habitat was Africa, then Aetheris had to be connected to the continent I once called home. But how? ¡°Thirty minutes remain. You might run late for school,¡± Povi reminded me, pulling me from my thoughts. I hurried back to my room and took a quick shower. The wardrobe slid open at my approach, revealing a neatly folded uniform¡ªa white dress with a black collar and matching stockings. The design was simple yet elegant, though it felt oddly juvenile for someone like me who was already in my 30''s in 2045. I dressed quickly, my movements mechanical as I tried to push aside the lingering doubts and questions. ¡°Povi, I need a blow dryer. How am I supposed to go to school with my hair like this?¡± I asked, softly touching the hair on my head. ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Nia purchased Fux, your personal hair care assistant. The blow dryer is outdated and inefficient for your daily routine,¡± Povi replied. ¡°Where is Fux?¡± I asked, glancing around the room. ¡°In the side room,¡± Povi said. I hadn¡¯t noticed the side room before, its entrance seamlessly blending into the wall. Inside, Fux stood in the center of the room¡ªa sleek, machine that resembled a cross between a hair dryer and a high-tech salon chair. Its surface was smooth and metallic, with glowing panels that pulsed softly with light. ¡°Welcome back, Madam Zahara. Do you require your usual style?¡± Fux¡¯s voice cut through, I was now getting used to the mechanical voices and technologies. However, I hesitated at the question, remembering the ordeal in the training room, it would be better to make a hair choice of my own in case Zahara had questionable choices. ¡°What styles do you offer?¡± I asked, my curiosity piqued. ¡°All kinds of braids and afro styles, using organic products. Plastics were phased out by the Federation, and weaves and wigs are prohibited,¡± Fux explained. ¡°Give me a popular afro style,¡± I said, settling into the chair. ¡°Command received. Please position your head in the headgear,¡± Fux instructed. I complied, and within minutes, the machine whirred to life. Gentle tendrils of light and heat enveloped my hair, shaping it into a stunning afro style that resembled a wrapped ribbon. The process was quick and painless, a far cry from the hours I used to spend on my hair in my past life. When Fux finished, I stepped in front of the mirror, my breath catching at the transformation. The style was elegant and unique, accentuating the youthful beauty of Zahara¡¯s face. For a moment, I almost forgot the turmoil of the morning. I looked at the image in the mirror with satisfaction. Now let''s go and attend school. Although there was no one around the house now, that didn''t bother me, it had provided me more time to properly prepare how to approach them when they appeared. Chapter 4: Hidden secrets. Before leaving, I first headed to the kitchen, following Povi¡¯s instructions, and approached what she called the service machine. It was a sleek, rectangular device embedded into the wall, its surface glowing faintly with soft blue light. I tapped the holographic interface and spoke the name of what I wanted for breakfast¡ªan omelette and sliced apples. Almost instantly, a transparent container slid out from a compartment below, revealing a perfectly prepared omelette and neatly arranged apple slices. The container was delicate, almost weightless, yet sturdy enough to hold the food securely. I placed it into my bag and headed out of the house. Stepping outside, I was immediately struck by the environment. The sun was mild and refreshing, just as I remembered it from my mornings in Uganda. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of pine and blooming flowers. It felt like home, yet everything around me was undeniably foreign. I had expected to see towering, futuristic buildings with sharp, robotic designs, but the reality was different. The house behind me was a stunning triangular structure, its architecture a blend of traditional Sudanese influences and futuristic innovation. The walls were made of a shimmering metallic material, interspersed with blocks of polished stone that reflected the sunlight. It was both elegant and imposing, a testament to the advanced yet culturally rooted design of Aetheris. Looking down, the road stretched endlessly, smooth and pristine. It was adorned with small, exquisite blocks that resembled pavers but were far more refined, their surfaces glinting faintly under the sun. The road was flanked by rows of towering pine trees, their needles rustling softly in the breeze. I remembered my father complaining about the mess pine trees could make, but I had always loved them. Their presence here felt like a small, comforting connection to my past. The area around the house was eerily quiet, with no other dwellings in sight. It felt isolated, almost otherworldly, as if the house existed in its own little bubble. Suddenly, a triangular object appeared in front of me, hovering slightly above the ground. Its surface was smooth and golden, reflecting the sunlight like liquid metal. It was unlike anything I had ever seen¡ªa floating vehicle of some kind, sleek and futuristic. ¡°This is¡­¡± I began, my voice trailing off as I stared at the object. ¡°The Zephyra-6,¡± Povi replied. ¡°It¡¯s the latest model. It¡¯s faster and more efficient for traveling to school.¡± I had no idea what a Zephyra was, but I played along, stepping inside as the surface of the vehicle slid open to reveal a comfortable two-seater interior. The seats were upholstered in a soft, silvery fabric that seemed to mold to my body as I sat down. A voice from the craft instructed me to secure the belt, and I complied, fastening it across my chest. The doors closed silently, and to my surprise, I could still see everything outside. The walls of the craft were transparent from the inside, offering a clear view of the surroundings, though from the outside, they had appeared solid and impenetrable. The Zephyra-6 took off without a sound, gliding smoothly above the ground. Within minutes, the isolated landscape gave way to a bustling cityscape. Triangular skyscrapers pierced the sky, their surfaces shimmering with a mix of glass and metal. Homes and buildings followed the same futuristic yet culturally inspired design, blending traditional African aesthetics with advanced technology. Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. In the sky, other Zephyras zipped by, their shapes varying from round to square. None, however, matched the sleek, triangular design of the one I was in. ¡°You should switch the language you¡¯re using,¡± Povi suddenly interjected, pulling me out of my awe-struck gaze. ¡°Few of your classmates speak the language you¡¯re currently using.¡± It was only then that I realized I had been speaking ''Lunyankole'', my native language from Uganda. This realization sent a jolt through me. If my language was recognized here, then this had to be Africa. No other continent on Earth spoke ''Lunyankole''. My confidence grew¡ªI was 80% sure I had been reborn in a futuristic version of Africa. But where were the other continents? What had happened to them? For one, I knew that the Alliance didn''t have the weapons to wipe out all continents, that was for sure. How then... ¡°Oh, which language is used all around Aetheris?¡± I inquired, switching to English to test my theory. In my previous life, the Alliance had banned all foreign languages, including English, as part of their extremist agenda. ¡°Most people in Region D use the Swahili language,¡± Povi replied. This sealed another confirmation for me. Swahili was uniquely African. No other continent on Earth spoke it. ¡°What about the English language?¡± I probed further. ¡°According to my assessment, there is no English language on Aetheris,¡± Povi replied¡ªin English. I internally rolled my eyes. The irony was almost laughable. ¡°What is the language we¡¯re using now?¡± I asked, keeping my tone neutral. ¡°You are using the ''Lingua'' language from Region A,¡± Povi explained. ¡°There is a small group of people who use it there, though it is not widely spoken in the region.¡± Lingua language, my ass, I thought. This was clearly English. Someone was trying to erase all traces of Earth¡¯s history, including its languages. But I stayed composed, masking my frustration. Speaking Swahili wouldn¡¯t be a problem. During the Alliance¡¯s reign, Swahili had become a unifying language in East Africa, enforced with brutal efficiency. Those who refused to learn it were labeled traitors and faced dire consequences. ¡°You have arrived,¡± Povi announced. I was surprised. The journey had felt incredibly short, no more than 20 minutes. The ''Zephyra-6'' was undeniably convenient. I stepped out, and the craft disappeared in a blur, moving at a speed that left me momentarily stunned. ¡°Why is the craft faster than before?¡± I exclaimed, still processing what I had just witnessed. ¡°With you on board, the speed is set differently for travel,¡± Povi explained. ¡°You haven¡¯t advanced to the level where you can handle its maximum speed. At its peak, the ''Zephyra-6'' can travel at speeds exceeding 1,000 kilometers per hour,¡± I shook my head in disbelief. The fastest cars in my time could barely reach 400 kilometers per hour. This was on another level entirely. ¡°Povi, I¡¯ll have to ask you many questions in the days to come,¡± I said as I approached the massive school gates. The sign above read ''Kinti Region D High School'' in Swahili. At 20 years old, being in high school felt strange. In my former life, this would have been seen as a failure. But here, with a life expectancy of 200 years, 20 was practically childhood. ¡°Starting with, where is my class?¡± I added. ¡°Turn to your left, southern wing, Block 457, Room 6,¡± Povi replied. ¡°It¡¯s not a problem. I am your personal assistant. Everything you want to know, I will reveal.¡± ¡°Thank you,¡± I said with a slight smile, heading in the direction she indicated. As I walked through the school gates, I noticed the lush greenery surrounding the campus. Towering trees with broad leaves lined the pathways, their branches swaying gently in the breeze. The grass was a vibrant green, dotted with colorful flowers that seemed to glow faintly in the sunlight,the atmosphere was serene. Students whispered as I passed, their gazes a mix of envy and admiration. I couldn¡¯t understand why, but their reactions were unmistakable. Something about me¡ªor rather, Zahara¡ªdrew their attention. I kept my head high, pretending not to notice, I was patient, I would uncover and know everything about Zahara, Aetheris and any hidden secrets, I just had to take my time. Chapter 5: Major of choice. I found my class and seat easily, thanks to the advanced technology embedded in the classroom. Each desk and chair was a marvel of futuristic design, their surfaces smooth and gleaming with a faint metallic sheen. Names were displayed on the desks like watermarks, glowing softly in a pale blue light. My name¡ªZahara Nia¡ªwas clearly visible on the first seat by the window in the third row. As I sat down, I noticed a small compartment attached to the desk. Following the example of the student across from me, I pressed my thumb against it. The compartment slid open, revealing a stack of thin, translucent tablets that I assumed were textbooks. I picked one at random and opened it, only to be met with a jumble of unfamiliar symbols and formulas. My heart sank. I had been a history and environmental researcher in my past life, however I was also well-versed in chemistry and physics, but these equations were unlike anything I had ever seen. The symbols were alien, the formulas incomprehensible. I felt a pang of frustration. How was I supposed to keep up in this world if I couldn¡¯t even understand the basics? ¡°Alright, everyone, settle down,¡± a voice called out, snapping me out of my thoughts. I looked up to see a tall, dark-skinned man with grey hair entering the room. He carried a sleek, futuristic tablet in one hand and a straight, white rod in the other. Despite his age, he moved with the energy of someone much younger, his sharp eyes scanning the room with authority. ¡°I hope you¡¯re all well prepared for today,¡± he began, his voice calm but commanding. ¡°Filling in your future course of study is crucial. The path you choose today will determine the trajectory of your lives.¡± I frowned. That seemed overly dramatic. In my previous life, people changed careers all the time. Surely, it couldn¡¯t be that serious here. The students around me, however, seemed to take his words to heart. A wave of whispers swept through the room, tense and anxious. ¡°What to do? I¡¯m not ready to pick a side yet!¡± I heard a girl behind me whisper, her voice trembling with worry. The atmosphere grew heavier, the weight of the decision pressing down on everyone. ¡°Alright, look at this graph,¡± the man said, raising the white rod in his hand. He pointed it at what I had assumed was a smooth whiteboard, and instantly, a holographic illustration appeared in midair. The graph was complex, filled with lines and data points that I couldn¡¯t begin to understand. ¡°In this class, I am very confident that we already have students who qualify to join the Scientific Research Institute of Aetheris,¡± the man continued. ¡°This is a big deal¡ªnot just for the school, but for Region D at large.¡± Another wave of whispers erupted, and I noticed several students glancing at me¡ªsome discreetly, others openly. I shifted uncomfortably in my seat, unsure of what their looks meant. The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. ¡°Go ahead and fill in your data,¡± the man instructed. ¡°We¡¯ll start with the first row. Come forward to my desk and make your choice.¡± The boy in the first row stood up. He was of medium height, with round glasses and a clean-cut appearance. He walked to the front of the room, where the man handed him the tablet. The boy made his selection, and the man nodded in approval, as if he had expected the choice. The process repeated itself, each student stepping forward to make their decision. The tension in the room was palpable, the silence broken only by the occasional murmur of encouragement or the soft hum of the tablet. Finally, it was my turn. The classroom fell completely silent, the weight of everyone¡¯s attention heavy on my shoulders. I walked to the front, my mind racing. I couldn¡¯t pick a scientific field¡ªthat much was clear. The formulas I had seen earlier were beyond my understanding, and I had no desire to dive into a world I couldn¡¯t navigate. The man handed me the tablet, and a list of majors appeared on the screen. I scrolled past the scientific fields¡ªAdvanced Quantum Mechanics, Aetherium Engineering, Galactic Biology¡ªuntil I found what I was looking for: History and Ancient Findings. Without hesitation, I selected the field and pressed my thumb to the screen to confirm my choice. The man looked at me with a complicated expression, his eyes narrowing slightly as if he were trying to decipher my decision. I gave him a polite smile and returned to my seat, ignoring the whispers that followed me. The rest of the students completed their submissions, and the man finally addressed the class again. ¡°Everything has been set,¡± he said, picking up his tablet. ¡°The results of your choices will be uploaded to the school forum once your final grades are released. Please check for your names then and see where you¡¯ve been placed.¡± With that, he left the room, leaving behind a classroom buzzing with nervous energy. ¡°Zahara?¡± a voice called out to me. I turned to see a tall, dark-skinned girl with smooth, flawless skin and sharp, chiseled features. Her white school uniform accentuated her slim figure, as an East African who had lived in Africa for all my life, I immediately recognized her as South Sudanese. ¡°Did you apply for the Scientific Research major?¡± she asked, her tone a mix of curiosity and inquiry. ¡°No,¡± I replied simply. The classroom erupted into murmurs, the students clearly shocked by my answer. ¡°What? But that¡¯s always been your passion!¡± the girl exclaimed, her eyes wide. ¡°People change their minds,¡± I said with a shrug. ¡°But¡­ what will you major in now?¡± she pressed. ¡°History,¡± I replied, since the my choice would be uploaded any way, telling her wasn''t an issue. ¡°History?¡± she repeated, her voice tinged with incredulity. ¡°People who work in that field are usually nobodies. No offense, but you really need to think twice about this," ¡°It¡¯s alright,¡± I said, keeping my tone calm. ¡°I¡¯m content with my choice.¡± The girl sighed, shaking her head. ¡°Okay, I just think it¡¯s a pity. You always got first place in everything you did. Seeing you not pick the most sought-after major¡ªone you¡¯re more than qualified for¡ªis a loss for the school and the Federation.¡± With that, she walked away, leaving me to process her words. She wasn¡¯t wrong. It seemed Zahara had been a star student, excelling in everything she did. But I wasn¡¯t Zahara¡ªnot really. I was Safi Amy, a history researcher from a different time and place. My passion lay in uncovering the past, not unraveling the mysteries of futuristic science. As the students filed out of the classroom, I stayed behind for a moment, staring at the holographic graph still floating in the air. The symbols and formulas were as alien to me as this world itself. But one thing was clear: I had made the right choice. History was my path, and through it, I would uncover the buried past of this place. Chapter 6: Parents and some discoveries. The school corridors were a labyrinth of gleaming walls and soft, ambient lighting. Students moved in clusters, their voices echoing faintly as they discussed the day¡¯s events. I walked alone, my bag slung over one shoulder, observing my new surroundings. I made my way to the school garden, a serene oasis tucked away behind the main building. The garden was a lush expanse of greenery, with towering trees, vibrant flowers, and winding pathways. A small fountain bubbled in the center, its water shimmering under the sunlight. I found a quiet bench and sat down, pulling out the breakfast I had packed earlier¡ªa neatly arranged omelette and sliced apples. As I ate, I let my mind wander. The garden was peaceful, and the weather was just right¡ªneither too hot nor too cold. But my solitude didn¡¯t last long. ¡°Zahara!¡± I looked up to see a tall, caramel-skinned boy striding toward me. He was strikingly handsome, his tailored black pants and white shirt school uniform fitting him perfectly. His sharp features and confident demeanor drew the attention of nearby students, who stopped to watch the interaction. ¡°Jabali!¡± I heard an excited student scream. That was a Swahili name, meaning ¡°rock,¡± I guessed it was the boy¡¯s name. It suited him¡ªstrong and a little intimidating. He stopped in front of me, his dark eyes narrowing as he crossed his arms. ¡°What¡¯s this I hear about you choosing History as your major?¡± I raised an eyebrow, taken aback by his tone. ¡°Yes, I did. What about it?¡± Jabali let out a frustrated sigh. ¡°Look, if this is about me, just stop. I already told you¡ªI¡¯m not interested. I have someone I love, and I won¡¯t be tied to you just because our families are close.¡± I stared at him, bewildered. Who did he think he was? I wasn¡¯t the real Zahara, and I certainly hadn¡¯t been pining over him. The arrogance in his voice was almost laughable. ¡°I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about,¡± I said, my tone calm but firm. ¡°My choice has nothing to do with you.¡± Jabali¡¯s expression faltered for a moment, but he quickly recovered, his lips curling into a smirk. ¡°Sure, whatever you say. But let me give you some advice¡ªchange your choice while you still can. Don¡¯t disappoint your parents just because you¡¯re trying to prove a point.¡± I shrugged, turning my attention back to my breakfast. ¡°Thanks for the advice, but I¡¯m good.¡± His smirk faded, replaced by a look of irritation. ¡°You¡¯re being ridiculous. Do you even know what you¡¯re throwing away?¡± ¡°I know exactly what I¡¯m doing,¡± I replied, meeting his gaze. ¡°And I don¡¯t need your approval.¡± Jabali stared at me for a moment, his jaw tightening. Then, without another word, he turned and walked away, his footsteps echoing sharply on the garden path. The students who had been watching quickly dispersed, their whispers growing louder as they left. I finished my breakfast in silence, my mind racing. Jabali¡¯s outburst had been unexpected, but it had also revealed some information to me. From his words, I could infer that his family and mine were close. However I didn¡¯t want any entanglements; it was better not to be tied to him in any way. A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. When school ended, I returned home in the Zephyra-6, the sleek craft gliding effortlessly through the sky. The journey was short, and soon I was stepping into the quiet solitude of my room. I took a quick shower, wrapped my hair in a bonnet, and settled onto the bed with my Terminal¡ªa futuristic device that served as both a computer and a communication tool, operated by the neural chip in my brain. The screen lit up, displaying a list of missed calls from Zahara¡¯s parents. I sighed, knowing they had already heard about my choice of major. But before I called them back, I decided to do some research. I navigated to the Federation¡¯s database and searched for information about the different fields of study. What I found was both enlightening and unsettling. In Aetheris, the field you chose determined your entire career path. The Federation had the right to assign you to a specific region¡ªA, B, C, or D¡ªbased on your major, and there was no room for change once assigned. Once you were placed, you were expected to dedicate your life to that role. I clicked on the History and Ancient Findings sector. The description was brief and uninspiring. Most historians worked in libraries or created educational videos for the Federation¡¯s archives. Their work was considered low-priority, and their salaries reflected that. There were no high-ranking positions, no opportunities for advancement¡ªjust a quiet, uneventful life. In contrast, the Scientific Research sector was the pinnacle of success. Scientists held top positions in the Federation, their work shaping the future of Aetheris. Some were even involved in mining Aetherium, the rare mineral that powered everything from the Aetherial Veil to the Zephyras. I paused, my curiosity piqued. I searched for more information about Aetherium. The mineral was described as a miracle substance, capable of manipulating energy on a subatomic level. It was the foundation of Aetheris¡¯s advanced technology, from the neural chips in every citizen¡¯s brain to the weapons used by the Federation¡¯s military. As I scrolled through the data, I stumbled upon something unexpected¡ªmy parents¡¯ names. They were listed as top researchers in Region C, currently working on the development of Aetherium-powered weapons. The revelation left me stunned. Zahara¡¯s parents weren¡¯t just scientists; they were among the most influential figures in Aetheris. Before I could process the information, my Terminal buzzed with an incoming call. It was my mother. I took a deep breath, masking my nervousness, and answered. ¡°Hello, Mother.¡± ¡°Zahara,¡± her voice was warm but tinged with concern. ¡°We heard about your choice of major from your teacher. Are you sure about this?¡± ¡°Yes, I am,¡± I replied, keeping my tone steady and natural. ¡°I¡¯ve thought it through, and this is what I want to do.¡± There was a pause, and then my father¡¯s voice joined the conversation. ¡°We just want to make sure you¡¯re not making a hasty decision. The Scientific Research sector offers so many opportunities.¡± ¡°I know,¡± I said. Another pause, and then my mother sighed. ¡°Alright, Zahara. If this is what you truly want, we¡¯ll support you. We just want you to be happy.¡± I felt a surge of relief¡ªand a pang of guilt. I wasn¡¯t their daughter, not really. ¡°Thank you. That means a lot to me.¡± ¡°We love you,¡± my father added, his voice softening. ¡°And we¡¯re proud of you, no matter what you choose.¡± ¡°Starting tomorrow, don¡¯t go back to school until your results are out,¡± my mother said. ¡°We¡¯ve contacted a very professional tutor from Region C. She¡¯ll be taking you through everything connected to the history of Aetheris.¡± I was immediately touched. These parents really loved their daughter. They had even thought ahead and never intended to hinder her. The call ended, and I leaned back against the pillows, a small smile on my lips. For the first time since I had awakened in this world, I felt a sense of peace. I had lost my parents at a young age and struggled in a country where your background played a huge role in your journey to success. It had been a long time since I had someone care for me to this extent. It was foreign, but not unwelcome. With all the events that had happened in this single day, I was drained and tired. Coupled with the new environment, sleep quickly took over me. Chapter 7: Weapons And The Shadow Syndicate. I hadn¡¯t had such a peaceful sleep in a very long time. Knowing I didn¡¯t have to go to school, I stretched lazily and buried myself deeper into the soft, luxurious bed. The weight of my new reality was still settling in, but for now, I allowed myself a moment of calm. Last night, I had focused my thoughts on something that defied everything I had ever known: Aetherium, the miracle mineral that powered this strange, futuristic world. My search had yielded some answers, but it had also left me with more questions. As I glanced out the window, I noticed the same elderly woman from yesterday tending to the flowers in the distance, her movements methodical and serene. ¡°Training time is approaching. It¡¯s advisable to wake up and prepare,¡± Povi¡¯s voice interrupted my thoughts. I groaned, rolling onto my side. ¡°What¡¯s the importance of training? Does everyone in Aetheris train?¡± ¡°It¡¯s for safety, defense, and protection purposes,¡± Povi explained. ¡°Every individual in Aetheris is encouraged to train by whatever means necessary. Thankfully, Mr. and Mrs. Nia can afford the Aetheris Combat Simulator, a state-of-the-art machine designed to simulate high-stakes combat scenarios. Mastering its challenges sets you apart from others and ensures you¡¯re prepared for any threat.¡± That piqued my interest. ¡°Defend from what? Isn¡¯t Aetheris supposed to be safe?¡± ¡°From the Shadow Syndicate,¡± Povi replied, her tone serious. ¡°They¡¯re a terrorist group hidden within Aetheris, responsible for numerous deaths each year. They¡¯re sharp, meticulous, decisive, and deadly. The Federation has implemented strict measures to root them out, but they¡¯ve proven elusive.¡± ¡°What¡¯s their mission? Why do they kill Aetheris citizens?¡± I asked, my curiosity growing. ¡°As of today, I don¡¯t have enough data to determine their exact motives,¡± Povi admitted. ¡°All I know is that citizens are encouraged to train, stay vigilant, defend themselves, and report anyone suspected of being part of the group. Plus, the training is excellent for your health.¡± I sighed, leaning back against the pillows. I had spent my last life running around, fighting, and sacrificing everything. By the time of my death, I had a cribbled leg and failed body. This time, I wanted to be smarter. Knowledge was the key to achieving my goals, and I wasn¡¯t about to repeat the mistakes of my past. Reluctantly, I sat up and headed to the bathroom. After brushing my teeth and taking a quick shower, I changed into soft pants and a T-shirt. My mind was already racing with questions, and I needed answers. On my bedside table, the Terminal from yesterday lay waiting. I picked it up and accessed the web, searching for information about the Shadow Syndicate. Just as Povi had said, they were described as a deadly group, and citizens were permitted to shoot them on sight¡ªno questions asked. But there was little else. No history, no motives, just vague warnings about their danger. Frustrated, I shifted my focus to the Aetheris Combat Simulator. Unsurprisingly, Aetherium was integral to its design. The machine used advanced optical illusions to create hyper-realistic combat scenarios, simulating life-threatening situations without actual risk. It was a marvel of technology, blending virtual reality with physical training to push users to their limits. The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Next, I searched for information about the weapons used in training and combat. Guns and bombs were obsolete here, replaced by futuristic marvels that left me both baffled and amazed: 1. Luminarc Gauntlets: Sleek, lightweight devices that attach to the forearm, blending seamlessly with the wearer¡¯s body. They emit concentrated beams of blue plasma energy, capable of cutting through almost any material with surgical precision. The beams are silent, leaving no trace of sound, but their impact is devastating¡ªdeep, cauterized wounds that are often fatal. Powered by a micro-reactor fueled by Aetherium, the Gauntlets are both efficient and deadly. Their elegant design features glowing blue veins running along the surface, and they can be activated with a simple mental command via the neural chip implanted in every citizen. No wonder guns weren''t detected my the Combat Simulator, they were outdated tools compared to the luminarc. 2. Voidspheres: Small, marble-sized orbs that resemble smoke balls but are infinitely more destructive. Each bead contains a core of compressed Aetherium, which, when activated, triggers a controlled implosion followed by a massive explosion. Detonated via a neural chip signal, Voidspheres can be set off remotely or on a timer. A single Voidsphere can level two skyscrapers, burying them deep into the ground. Despite their destructive power, they are incredibly stable and safe to carry¡ªup to 100 can fit in a palm-sized pouch. The explosion is accompanied by a faint, eerie hum and a blinding flash of light, leaving behind a crater surrounded by a shimmering, glass-like residue. Looking at the visual images on the terminal, their blast power was incredible, bombs couldn''t compare. 3. Stellar Collapsars : Buried deep beneath the surface of Aetheris, these are the Federation¡¯s ultimate weapon¡ªa doomsday device capable of annihilating an entire galaxy. Powered by a core of hyper-compressed Aetherium, the Collapsars create a chain reaction of gravitational collapse when activated. The explosion would not only destroy Aetheris but also create a black hole capable of consuming nearby star systems. Guarded by an impenetrable vault, the Collapsars can only be activated by two high-ranking generals on the Federation Committee, each possessing a unique neural key. However, this was just general knowledge but no one knew where they were buried, only the federation knew that. My mind reeled at the sheer power and sophistication of these weapons. They made the nuclear weapons of my time seem primitive by comparison. But what fascinated me most was Aetherium itself. The mineral was the cornerstone of everything in Aetheris per my assessment. As I delved deeper into my research, a sharp ''ring'' interrupted my thoughts. I set the Terminal aside and walked to the door. On the other side stood a tall, elegant woman in a tailored suit, her presence commanding yet graceful. ¡°Mom?¡± I wondered silently. It seemed Zahara''s mother was still in region C? ¡°That is Mrs. Ngoni,¡± Povi informed me. ¡°She¡¯s the head of all service staff and oversees the maintenance of this estate. She ensures everything runs smoothly.¡± ¡°Oh,¡± I replied, feeling slightly embarrassed. Mrs. Ngoni pressed the pager again, and another ring echoed through the room. I quickly opened the door. ¡°Madam Zahara, good morning,¡± she said, her tone polite but slightly surprised. ¡°You¡¯re not going to school today?¡± ¡°No, I¡¯ll be staying in,¡± I replied. ¡°Very well. I came to check on the room and see if anything needs attention,¡± she explained. ¡°Please, come in,¡± I said, stepping aside to let her enter. As she walked in, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a flicker of curiosity. Mrs. Ngoni seemed to know the inner workings of the Nia household well. Perhaps she could provide some insight into Zahara¡¯s life¡ªand this Family first hand. Chapter 8: Food and Echoes of the Past. Madam Ngoni headed toward my wardrobe and pressed her left thumb against a small, nearly invisible panel beside it. A green light scanned her thumbprint, and a compartment slid open, revealing a disc-like device. She picked it up and replaced it with another similar device. I watched intently, my curiosity piqued. I had no idea what the device was for, but I couldn¡¯t ask directly without raising suspicions. After all, Zahara had grown up in this world¡ªshe should know these things. ¡°Aunt Ngoni,¡± I began, approaching her with a polite smile, ¡°now that I won¡¯t be going to school for a while, are there any activities you¡¯d suggest I do in my free time?¡± She paused, her sharp eyes widening slightly in surprise. ¡°Madam Zahara, you¡¯ve never used that form of address before,¡± she said, her tone curious but not unkind. My heart skipped a beat. Had I already slipped up? But Ngoni¡¯s expression softened. ¡°But it¡¯s alright. I don¡¯t dislike you calling me that. After all, I¡¯ve raised you since you were a child.¡± Relief washed over me. From her words, I gathered that Ngoni had been part of the Nia household for a long time. This was exactly the kind of insight I needed¡ªsomeone who knew Zahara¡¯s life intimately. ¡°It¡¯s alright,¡± I said, smiling warmly. ¡°To me, you¡¯re family. Please drop the honorifics¡ªcall me Zahara from now on.¡± Ngoni¡¯s eyes softened further, and she nodded. ¡°Alright, Zahara. As for activities, you normally spend weekends with your cousin, Amani. You¡¯re not really one for outings, but perhaps you could try making more friends. Other girls your age enjoy taking pictures and uploading videos on the Hue Network.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll take your advice, Auntie,¡± I replied, filing away the name Amani and the Hue Network for later research. ¡°Good. Did you have breakfast yet? I¡¯ll personally make you your favorite¡ªmatooke and groundnut paste,¡± Ngoni offered. Her words caught me off guard. Matooke¡ªa dish made from steamed green bananas¡ªwas a staple in Uganda. The fact that Ngoni referred to it by its Ugandan name confirmed my suspicions: Region D was undoubtedly East Africa. ¡°Is it alright?¡± Ngoni asked, her probing eyes searching my face. ¡°Ah, yes! I love it. Thank you. Let me help you,¡± I said quickly, trying to mask my surprise. Ngoni chuckled. ¡°No need. Ever since you were a child, you¡¯ve never stepped foot in the kitchen. You wouldn¡¯t know what you¡¯re doing. Besides, the food made by the service machine lacks a personal touch.¡± A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. With that, she left the room, the disc device in hand. I picked up the Terminal and followed her, determined to learn more about this world¡ªand Zahara¡¯s place in it. As Ngoni busied herself in the kitchen, I sat nearby, my attention divided between her and the Terminal. She spoke to someone through a wireless earpiece, her voice low and efficient. ¡°Alright, come in ten minutes,¡± she said, ending the call. She opened the fridge, pulling out peeled green bananas and placing them in a clean pan. Watching her prepare the meal was like stepping back in time. The process was exactly as I remembered from my past life¡ªwashing the bananas, steaming them, and preparing the groundnut paste. It was comforting, yet surreal. A few minutes later, the doorbell rang. Before I could react, a group of six neatly dressed girls entered, each holding a portable bag. Their attire was striking¡ªa fabric that resembled refined leather but had a subtle shimmer. ¡°Good morning, Madam,¡± they greeted in unison. ¡°Good morning. Please, call me Zahara,¡± I replied with a small smile. ¡°They¡¯re here to clean and maintain the house,¡± Ngoni explained from the kitchen. ¡°Take the UnitDisc and see to the areas that need attention. I don¡¯t need to supervise you.¡± The girls nodded, and the one at the front stepped forward to take the disc device¡ªnow identified as a UnitDisc. They dispersed in different directions, their movements efficient and practiced. ¡°The food is almost ready. Go have a seat at the dining table,¡± Ngoni instructed. I complied, settling into a chair at the elegant dining table. My attention returned to the Terminal, and I began searching for information about the different regions of Aetheris. The screen lit up with a holographic map of Region D. My breath caught as I recognized the familiar contours of East Africa. The Nile River snaked through the landscape, its waters glinting under the simulated sunlight. But what truly stunned me was the massive body of water that dominated the southern part of the region¡ªLake Nalu, as it was now called. The name was new, but there was no mistaking it: this was Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa. The holographic view zoomed in, revealing its pristine waters and lush surroundings. Wildlife thrived here¡ªelephants, giraffes, etc. It was as if time had stood still for the animals, their habitats preserved and protected. The map expanded, showing the merged territories of what were once Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, Ethiopia, and parts of Central Africa. The borders were gone, replaced by a unified region where travel documents were no longer needed. Instead, facial recognition technology allowed seamless movement between areas. Central Africa¡¯s unique attributes were also highlighted¡ªdense rainforests, vibrant cultures, and rich biodiversity. The Congo Basin, now a protected reserve, was teeming with life. It was a breathtaking sight, a testament to the Federation¡¯s efforts to preserve the natural world. As I marveled at the map, Ngoni approached with a steaming plate of matooke and groundnut paste. The aroma was intoxicating, and my stomach growled in anticipation. ¡°Here you go,¡± she said, placing the plate in front of me. ¡°Thank you, Auntie. Won¡¯t you join me?¡± I asked, hoping to keep her close. Ngoni shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m afraid not. I have to supervise the workers. But enjoy your meal.¡± She left, and I turned my attention to the food. It had been so long since I¡¯d had a proper meal, and the sight of the steaming matooke brought a wave of nostalgia. I took a bite, savoring the familiar flavors. It was perfect¡ªsoft, savory, and comforting. As I ate, my mind wandered back to the map. Region D was undeniably East Africa, but so much had changed. The Federation had erased the past, but the echoes of my former world were still there, hidden beneath the surface. Chapter 9: Aetheris Four faces and a new acquittance. After finishing my meal, I placed the plates in the dishwasher, a sleek, futuristic machine that swiftly cleaned and returned them to the cupboards. The efficiency of the technology no longer surprised me¡ªI was growing accustomed to the advanced world of Aetheris. ¡°Zahara dear, we¡¯ll be heading out now,¡± Ngoni¡¯s voice called from behind. I turned to see her standing with the staff members, who had apparently finished their work. ¡°That quick?¡± I asked, walking toward her with a polite smile. ¡°The UnitDisc is incredibly helpful,¡± Ngoni explained. ¡°It identifies which areas need immediate attention, allowing my team to work efficiently and avoid unnecessary chores.¡± ¡°Oh, isn¡¯t it easier to use robots, though?¡± I inquired. I hadn¡¯t seen any robots in Aetheris, which seemed odd for such an advanced society. Ngoni shook her head. ¡°Robots were phased out by the Federation about 500 years ago. They were deemed environmentally unfriendly¡ªtheir production required rare materials that depleted natural resources, and their energy consumption was unsustainable. Plus, their malfunctions were costly for ordinary citizens to repair. In the end, the Federation decided that human labor, augmented by tools like the UnitDisc, was more practical and eco-friendly.¡± ¡°Ah, so that¡¯s how it is,¡± I replied, nodding thoughtfully. ¡°We¡¯ll get going, then,¡± Ngoni said, gathering her things. ¡°Okay, let me see you off,¡± I offered. ¡°No need. If you¡¯re not going to school, why not call Amani to come over? She enjoys spending time with you,¡± Ngoni suggested before leaving with the staff. I was reminded of my cousin, Amani, but I couldn¡¯t bring myself to contact her just yet. I needed to understand this world better¡ªits geography, its history, and its secrets. With the house quiet, I returned to the Terminal and resumed my exploration of Aetheris¡¯s regions. I started with Region A, the western part of the continent. The holographic map zoomed in, revealing a landscape that felt both familiar and alien. The architecture of the cities was striking¡ªtowering structures with intricate designs that echoed the ancient mud-brick buildings of West Africa and sand castles of the Mali empire. The Great Mosque of Djenn¨¦, once a UNESCO World Heritage site, seemed to have inspired some of the modern designs, with their geometric patterns and sweeping curves. As I delved deeper, I noticed the music of Region A¡ªa vibrant blend of traditional rhythms and futuristic beats. The unmistakable sound of Afrobeat filled the air, its infectious energy pulsing through the streets. It was a testament to the enduring legacy of West African culture, preserved and reimagined in this new world. Next, I turned my attention to Region B, the northern part of Aetheris. To my astonishment, the Sahara Desert¡ªonce a barren expanse of sand¡ªwas now a lush, green paradise. The Federation had somehow transformed the desert into a thriving ecosystem, complete with forests, rivers, and even small settlements. But what truly captivated me were the pyramids¡ªmassive, gleaming structures that rose from the landscape like ancient sentinels. These weren¡¯t the pyramids of Giza I remembered from my past life. They were larger, more intricate, and infused with advanced technology. Yet their design was unmistakably inspired by the ancient architecture of Egypt and Sudan. It was as if the Federation had taken the grandeur of the past and elevated it to new heights. Finally, I explored Region C, where my parents were currently stationed. This region encompassed the southern part of the continent, including what was once South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and neighboring countries. The landscape was diverse¡ªrolling savannas, dense rainforests, and towering mountains. I noticed the vibrant cultures of the south, their traditions preserved and celebrated. The music here was a fusion of traditional drumming and modern electronic beats, creating a sound that was uniquely Aetherian. The cities were a blend of old and new, with futuristic skyscrapers standing alongside structures inspired by ancient African kingdoms. My own region, Region D, was a breathtaking mix of East and Central Africa. The landscape was dominated by lush forests, sprawling savannas, and the majestic Lake Nalu¡ªformerly Lake Victoria. The wildlife here was thriving, with elephants, giraffes, and other species roaming freely. It was a testament to the Federation¡¯s efforts to preserve the natural world. As I pieced together the information, a clear picture emerged. Aetheris was divided into four regions, each representing a different part of the former African continent I knew: Region A: West Africa and neighboring countries, with its vibrant music and ancient-inspired architecture. Region B: North Africa, and the transformed Sahara Desert. Region C: Southern Africa, a land of diverse landscapes and rich cultures. Region D: East and Central Africa, where I currently resided, with its lush forests, sprawling savannas, and the majestic Lake Nalu. Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. The Federation had erased the borders of the past, merging the continent into a unified entity. Travel between regions was seamless, facilitated by facial recognition technology. But beneath the surface, the echoes of the old world remained¡ªhidden in the architecture, the music, and the traditions of the people. As I absorbed this information, memories of my former life came flooding back. I remembered the rise of the Alliance, a radical group that had swept across Africa in the early 21st century. At first, they were hailed as heroes, rounding up rebel groups and overthrowing corrupt leaders. The world had cheered them on, believing they would bring peace and stability to a troubled continent. But their methods grew increasingly extreme. They closed Africa¡¯s borders, cutting off trade and isolating the continent from the rest of the world. Then came the purges¡ªtargeting not just corrupt officials but anyone who opposed their vision of a ¡°pure¡± Africa. The world watched in horror as the Alliance tightened its grip, but by then, it was too late. By the time of my death, the Alliance had a stranglehold on every person in Africa. They had become worse than the forces they had originally fought against. As I sat there, staring at the holographic map, a chilling thought crossed my mind. Was the Federation simply a rebranded version of the Alliance? The similarities were hard to ignore. The Federation¡¯s control over Aetheris was absolute, its citizens living in a carefully curated world where dissent was not tolerated. If the Federation was indeed the Alliance, then Aetheris was not the utopia it appeared to be. It was a gilded cage, its beauty masking a darker truth. A soft chime from my Terminal pulled me out of my thoughts. It was a message from my parents. ¡°Zahara, your tutor will arrive in two days. She¡¯s one of the best in Region C, so make sure you¡¯re prepared. We love you and can¡¯t wait to hear about your progress.¡± I smiled faintly, typing a quick reply. "Thank you for arranging this. I¡¯ll be ready. Love you too.¡± The message sent, I leaned back in my chair, my mind buzzing with questions and plans. I had two days before my life would be consumed by lessons and schedules. If I wanted to explore this world, now was the time. I dressed quickly, pulling on a sleek leather jacket, comfortable jeans, and a pair of futuristic sneakers that seemed to mold to my feet. Grabbing the Terminal, I headed to the Zephyra-6, the sleek craft waiting patiently in the driveway. ¡°Destination?¡± the craft¡¯s smooth, automated voice asked as I settled into the seat. ¡°Mombasa,¡± I said, curious to see if the name had survived the centuries. To my surprise, it had. The Zephyra-6 hummed to life, and within moments, we were soaring through the sky. The journey was breathtakingly short, thanks to the craft¡¯s incredible speed. As we descended, I marveled at the landscape below. The once-distinct borders of Kenya and Uganda were gone, replaced by a seamless expanse of land that was now part of Region D. Travel within the region was effortless, with no need for documents¡ªjust a quick facial scan at checkpoints. When we landed on the outskirts of Mombasa, the Zephyra-6 activated its cloaking mechanism, disappearing into thin air. I stared in awe as the craft became invisible, leaving no trace of its presence. The beach was as stunning as I remembered, though it was now dotted with futuristic loungers and holographic advertisements. I ordered a passion fruit juice from a nearby kiosk, paying with a simple fingerprint scan. Povi had explained that currencies were now entirely digital, linked to each citizen¡¯s neural chip. It was convenient, though it made me nostalgic for the tactile feel of cash. As I sipped my drink, a girl approached me. She was medium height, with braided hair and a dress that blended traditional Maasai patterns with modern design. Her chocolate skin glowed under the sun, and her smile was warm and inviting. ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Nyota,¡± she said, extending her hand. The name meant ¡°star¡± in Swahili, and it suited her perfectly. ¡°I¡¯m Zahara,¡± I replied, shaking her hand. Her eyes widened slightly. ¡°Zahara Nia? The Zahara Nia?¡± I blinked, caught off guard. ¡°Yes¡­?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve heard of you,¡± Nyota said, her tone tinged with awe. ¡°Your parents are top scientists, right? I saw you on the news once, at some Federation event. You¡¯re kind of famous in Region D.¡± I forced a smile, masking my surprise. So that¡¯s why my classmates had been staring at me. To them, I was the daughter of prominent figures¡ªa celebrity of sorts. We chatted for a while, discussing everything from the weather to the latest trends on the Hue Network. Nyota was easy to talk to, her laughter infectious. But when I casually asked if she¡¯d ever heard of Kenya, she shook her head. ¡°Never heard of it,¡± she said, shrugging. ¡°Is it a new brand or something?¡± ¡°No, just something I read about,¡± I replied, quickly changing the subject. As the conversation flowed, I couldn¡¯t help but notice how down-to-earth Nyota was. She seemed genuinely surprised that I was so approachable. ¡°Most kids from top families are¡­ well, a bit standoffish,¡± she admitted. ¡°But you¡¯re different.¡± I smiled, though her words left me uneasy. The world of Aetheris, for all its advancements, still had its hierarchies. Wealth and status mattered here, just as they had in my former life. Before we parted ways, Nyota snapped a picture of us together. ¡°I¡¯ll send it to you,¡± she said, tapping her Terminal. ¡°You should join the Hue Network. Everyone¡¯s on it.¡± I nodded, making a mental note to create an account later. As the sun began to set, a sudden blue flash lit up the sky. I looked up, startled, but the flash was gone as quickly as it had appeared. The people around me barely reacted, as if it were a normal occurrence. ¡°What was that?¡± I asked Nyota, trying to sound casual. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s just the Veil,¡± she said, sipping her drink. ¡°It activates every evening to protect Aetheris. You know, the shield thing?¡± ¡°Right, of course,¡± I said, forcing a laugh. ¡°I just¡­ forgot for a moment.¡± Nyota smiled, but her eyes lingered on me for a moment too long. I quickly changed the subject, not wanting to raise suspicions. After saying goodbye to Nyota, I returned to the Zephyra-6 and flew back home. The journey was quiet, giving me time to reflect on the day¡¯s events. Back in my room, I took a long bath, letting the warm water soothe my thoughts. As I dried off, I made a plan for the next day: Open a Hue Network account: If I wanted to blend in and gather information, I needed to be part of the social fabric of Aetheris. Research training levels: I had to understand the combat system and the weapons available to me. Order history books: If I was going to uncover the truth about Aetheris, I needed to start with its past. As I settled into bed, my mind wandered back to the Veil. That blue flash had been mesmerizing, yet unsettling. What was behind it?what was it''s importance as a whole? For now, those questions would have to wait. Tomorrow was a new day, and I had a lot to prepare for.