Terra Nova Page 8

  ‘They won’t look for us here,’ Noah assured an increasingly nervous Richard. ‘Trastevere is considered a dangerous place and only the bravest would dare venture through its narrow streets, and even then it would have to be in the company of many other brave souls. My grandparents were born in this house and my parents only left it two years after they were married. As long as one’s face is known one is relatively safe but if the locals detect a strange face they will react forcefully and eject them from what they regard as their exclusive territory.’

  Richard wore a look of acute fear and confusion on his face. He slowly shook his head while Noah stood ramrod straight, not a muscle moved to disfigure his confident demeanor.

  ‘I do not understand it Noah,’ said Richard. ’I’m totally, completely confused. You told me your ancestors only transported the most exemplary of persons to Terra Nova and that everyone was whiter than white: not a criminal amongst them, but it seems all of that has changed and you’re now telling me that the streets around here are dangerous because of its unruly inhabitants. You also told me that people were no longer killed in the Coliseum and yet something called Immaculation takes place, a term which is a euphemism for death! So why all the lies and deceit?’

  Noah’s mouth twisted as he pursed his lips. His pink tongue, flecked white at the tip, appeared subconsciously and laid a shiny layer of wetness over his cracked, parched lips. For the very first time since they had met, Richard sensed Noah was on the defensive and unable to deliver a credible answer to some very direct, challenging questions. Richard felt no satisfaction from the change - in fact he visibly blanched when he noted Noah’s extreme embarrassment.

  ‘Noah, I’m sorry. Please forgive me,’ said Richard. ‘I understand how difficult this is for you. And I also know I have to learn to control myself - my quick temper especially. But, at the same time, you have to understand that I can’t be lied to again, ever. If we are going to get through the terrible mess, we must be totally honest with each other.’

  Noah appeared remorseful.

  ‘I join you in your apologies,’ he replied. ‘I assure you I have not deliberately deceived you, rather I have tried to project an image of Terra Nova that accentuates its achievements while ignoring its failings. I know that is wrong and, once again, I apologise. It is the way we, those in my strata of society, have been taught to act from birth. You will think me most obtuse to simply go along with the neo-traditionalists but, sadly, it is the only way to survive, otherwise you end up below the poverty line as are the poor inhabitants of Trastevere.’

  Richard looked at his friend, understanding and pity softening his expression.

  ‘We are what we are,’ he said. ‘But right now we have to rise above the defects in our upbringing. I find it encouraging that, already, after only a few days since meeting each other we have both changed. You Noah have exhibited emotions that you thought you were no longer capable of feeling or showing. I have seen you reveal anger, pity, generosity and now a great deal of compassion. You have risked your own life for me for no reason other than a willingness to protect and help me. I appreciate that more than I can say.’

  Noah smiled. ‘I brought you here and, because of that, it is my responsibility to ensure your safe return. If nothing else I am a man of honour and I intend to do what I can to make sure you are returned to Earth as soon as is humanly possible. Plans have already been laid and I trust they will be revealed once you have completely recovered from your ordeal. Meanwhile, allow me to help you relax.’

  Noah clicked his fingers and, once again, Richard acquiescently succumbed and willingly drifted into a bottomless hole as black as the blackest hole in the Universe.

  Chapter Eighteen

  ‘How are you feeling now Richard? You have been asleep for almost twelve hours. I was beginning to think you would never wake up.’

  Noah approached the bed where Richard lay, he was gently rubbing sleep from his eyes.

  ‘Here, you must be thirsty,’ he said, offering a bronze cup filled close to the brim with a steaming liquid. ‘It is a drink that will stimulate and sustain you during the ordeal that faces us.’

  Richard sat up and sipped the drink, hesitantly at first, then with increased enthusiasm. He nodded his appreciation. ‘Tastes just like Breakfast Tea from Sainsbury’s - sorry Noah - you wouldn’t know about Sainsbury’s would you?’

  ‘Sainsbury’s? Ummmm, now let me see,’ mused Noah. ‘I assume Sainsbury’s must be a place where you buy your food back on Earth? Is that correct?’

  Richard beamed.

  ‘Well thought out Noah, that’s exactly what it is. But, what about here on Terra Nova? You must have similar shops, you know, really big shops - supermarkets we call them - where you can buy everything you need under one roof.’

  Noah appeared perplexed. ‘It hardly seems the place or the time to discuss the shopping habits of the population of Terra Nova but, no, as a matter of fact we do not have these so-called supermarkets. Do not forget Richard that the Earth’s population is approximately 6.8 billion while Terra Nova has only a fraction of that number. Consequently our needs are easily catered for by local farmer’s markets where all the food on sale is grown organically. The result is a very healthy population and, what is more, population growth is carefully controlled by limiting the number of births per family. In fact families are not allowed to comprise more than three in total - and that includes the parents of course!’

  Noah grinned, causing Richard to break into a smile.

  ‘Noah, I never thought I’d say it; you’re actually developing a sense of humour!’

  Noah smiled again.

  ‘And just as well,’he said. ’considering the predicament we are in!’ He appeared to be aware of the fact that he was reviving long-forgotten emotions and, what is more, he was actually beginning to enjoy the change.

  ‘Do you know something Richard? But for you and your eccentric ways I would still be like everybody else here on Terra Nova. By your actions you have made me realise that although our society has introduced many beneficial and, dare I say, pioneering advances, we have made obtuse mistakes by our insistence on cloning and genetic engineering. It is potently evident to me now that human beings must be allowed to develop their own personalities. There is nothing to be gained, but so much has been lost, by eradicating all the wonderful, expressive emotions that I see, envy and admire in you - all acting in infinite combinations so that they ensure each and every person is individual and different. I fear things may already have gone too far on Terra Nova and we are rapidly approaching a time when the problems we tried to avoid, the ones that caused us to leave our doomed Earth, will arise once again and destroy Terra Nova.’

  He paused and glanced apprehensively at Richard as if seeking approval.

  ‘Noah, while I welcome the new you, we have to face up to some harsh facts. We’re in serious trouble and, unless you have foolproof plan that gets us off Terra Nova and back to Earth in a hurry, we are going to end up being slung in jail and end up dead,’ said Richard calmly. ‘That’s the last thing either of us wants. You told me you have a plan. Am I allowed to know what it is?’

  There followed a long, embarrassing pause before Noah finally answered:

  ‘Richard, my friend, come, sit down beside me and try to relax.’ He motioned towards a two-seater sofa shaped like a chaise-longue. ‘I have given much thought to this problem continuously, ever since you were thrown into prison,’ he began, a trifle inadequately. ‘I am, unfortunately, forced to seek the help of others, for the situation I have created is as complex and dangerous as any I have ever experienced, including my many inter-galactic travels. I know full well I cannot accomplish anything that will result in your return to Earth unless I enlist the help of others.’

  He held up a trembling open hand, palm facing Richard who, now seated, was about to pose another question. The
gesture, albeit nervous in nature, made it clear Richard should remain silent.

  ‘We need additional help and it will not be easy to come by, I hate to admit this, for it contradicts almost everything I have told you about the way we live on Terra Nova...’

  He paused, then continued adopting a conspiratorial attitude.

  ‘There exists a clandestine rebellious organisation, for want of a better description, of which I have some knowledge. It comprises dissidents who feel they are being deprived of their democratic rights by Ezra’s government. They are actively looking for ways to have their grievances aired and addressed. Thus far their protests have been relatively passive, not overly aggressive so far. But things are changing, fast. The number of dissidents is growing exponentially alongside an inability to change the dictates of an autocratic government. More and more citizens are becoming affected by what are considered to be serious flaws and injustices in our system. I told you in earlier conversations that Ezra is the ultimate ruler of Terra Nova. He refuses to meet or listen to the leaders of the dissidents and has stamped hard on anyone who dares oppose him; hence the growing number of people facing Immaculation!’

  Richard listened intently, surprised at Noah’s revelations.

  ‘Nothing’s really changed, has it?’ he said.

  ‘What do you mean?’ answered Noah brusquely.

  ‘What do I mean? What do I mean? I mean some of the conditions that led to the demise of your ancestor’s time on Earth appear to be duplicating themselves again here on Terra Nova - apparently ignoring the lessons learned. If you have not learned from the mistakes made by your ancestors then you are heading in the same direction once again. None of your much trumpeted, grandiose descriptions of a Utopian life here makes any sense. You put up with a dictatorship on Terra Nova that appears to be just as harsh as any that existed on your version of Earth and certainly similar to some on the current version. That’s what I meant when I said nothing’s really changed.’

  Noah’s solemn expression reflected his recognition of the truth behind Richard’s words. The self confidence he has projected since Richard arrived on Terra Nova, was now replaced by a concerned demeanour that harboured serious doubts and anxieties.

  Noah’s falling apart, thought Richard. What does that say for my chances of a return to Earth?

  Noah read Richard’s thoughts - the only time he felt the need to do so since Richard set foot on Terra Nova. He shook his head.

  ‘No, Richard, I am not falling apart,’ he said. ‘although I have to admit to feeling a great deal of anguish resulting from adapting to the life of a fugitive. You must, at the very least, try to understand how I feel, for this is all new to me. You have to give me time to adjust but I cannot do so unless you demonstrate a larger degree of understanding and patience. My problem is made more difficult because I desperately need help from individuals whom I should, bearing in mind my position, be turning over to the authorities.’

  Noah’s reply caused Richard’s heart to sink. Here, standing forlornly before him, was his one and only chance of getting back to Earth and it was becoming depressingly apparent that the already slim chance was diminishing in due proportion to Noah’s rapidly escalating melancholy. Richard eyed Noah scornfully then emitted a prolonged, frustrated, sigh.

  ‘Pull yourself together Noah,’ he said. ’Unless we start acting and thinking positively we’ll never get out of this mess. First things first, where, how, do we get in touch with these dissident friends of yours? If you can’t do it, tell me where they are and I’ll contact them. And in any case, I’m not so sure they’ll trust you since you are, or were, pro-government until you brought me here and I became instrumental in turning your cozy world upside down.’

  Noah looked even more distressed

  ‘Richard, please, please forgive me. I am exhibiting extreme weakness while you demonstrate amazing strength. That is not the way it should be. Nonetheless, I am responsible for ensuring your safe return to Earth. That is my duty and nothing, and I mean nothing, will distract me, not even my fear of Immaculation. Please, grant me your patience at least until tomorrow when I will take you to meet some of those who can help.’

  Richard shook his head balefully but realised he had to accept the facts. He knew the situation, from his own point of view, was completely out of his control. Noah was his only lifeline and all he could do realistically was to support and encourage a friend who was now a fellow fugitive

  The rest of the day at the safe house in Trastevere was spent in deep discussions on every conceivable subject. Richard raised many environmental questions one of which caused much dissent.

  ‘Pollution resulting from the burning of fossil fuels is held to be responsible for the Earth’s climate changing, perhaps irrevocably. How has the problem been addressed on Terra Nova?’

  ‘Have you not noticed that we have no motor cars in Leviticus?’

  Noah paused and looked enquiringly at Richard.

  ‘Of course you have,’ he continued. ‘As you will have seen we rely on horses in the main but on our feet in general. As for lighting and heating we have access to unlimited, pollution free, power following a ground-breaking scientific breakthrough that had eluded and frustrated our scientists on our version of Earth, and indeed here on Terra Nova, for centuries I should add. You have heard, no doubt, of perpetual motion?’

  Richard nodded.

  ‘Of course I’ve heard of it. In fact I’ve poured over the studies of many highly-respected scientists on the subject. That led me to conclude it was not only a dream but, in fact, an unachievable dream.’

  He stopped and stared questioningly at Noah.

  ‘You’re not going to tell me that perpetual motion is up and working on Terra Nova?’

  Noah’s ability to smile was increasing exponentially alongside Richard’s astonishment at successive revelations.

  ‘Not only up and working my friend,’ he said. ‘But, for the past fifty years or so, producing all of our energy needs planet-wide. Consequently we have a planet where the air is always fresh and clean, rainfall is pure and uncontaminated by acidity and our crystal clear oceans support copious forms of marine life. We learned from past mistakes with the indiscriminate misuse of fossil fuels. The challenge presented by creating perpetual motion was enormous because scientists had been shackled for centuries by the acceptance of two accepted laws of physics.’ Noah stopped and looked at his companion who still displayed a look of complete astonishment. ‘Shall I continue?’

  Richard nodded once more.

  ‘Yes, of course, please, please.’

  Noah swallowed and collected his thoughts.

  ‘The first and second laws were those relating to thermodynamics. The first law is a statement of conservation of energy, the second contains several statements, the most instinctive being the general acceptance that heat flows spontaneously from hotter to colder places. The most well known statement was that entropy tends to increase or at least stays the same. Then, also accepted at the time, was the theory that any machine working in a closed cycle cannot transform thermal energy to work in a region of constant temperature. Machines which were claimed not to violate either of the two laws of thermodynamics, but were instead claimed to generate energy from unconventional sources, were quite often referred to as perpetual motion machines.’

  Richard’s interest was growing.

  ‘You mentioned “entropy” what does it mean?’

  ‘Entropy? - hmmm, let me see - how best to explain? Well, entropy is a thermodynamic quantity representing the unavailability of a system’s thermal energy for conversion into mechanical work, often described as the degree of disorder or randomness in a system. Yes, I think that explains it rather cogently even if I say so myself.’

  Richard thought otherwise.

  ‘Whoa, this is getting far too complicated for my
miniscule brain to take in,’ he said. ‘By the way have you heard of Nicolas Leonard Sadi Carnot?’

  Noah nodded.

  ‘I know something about the Carnot heat engine,’ he said, a note of smugness entering his voice.

  ‘How can you know about Carnot?’ Richard wore a look of disappointment. ‘Don’t tell me he was also a Terra Novan?’

  Noah smiled knowingly.

  ‘No, he wasn’t a Terra Novan. Nonetheless, he was a remarkable thinker considering he developed his hypothesis in your year of 1824! His engine was then graphically expanded upon by Benoit Paul Emile Clapeyron ten years later and then subsequently mathematically elaborated upon by Rudolf Clausius in the 1850’s and 1860’s. It was from these expansions and elaborations that the beginnings of entropy emerged.’

  Noah sat nodding his head in a show of admiration for those he had referred to.

  ‘Great thinkers,’ he eventually proclaimed. ‘Great thinkers - way ahead of their time, trouble is they were all totally wrong!’

  Richard eyes opened wide.

  ‘Totally wrong? So am I supposed to assume that your scientists are always totally right ?’ he questioned petulantly.

  Noah ignored the angry riposte.

  ‘Look,’ he said calmly. ‘I’m not a scientist and I don’t have all the answers but what I can tell you is that our perpetual motion is based on utilising Terra Nova’s enormous rotational energy, the power of its winds, and the movement of its seas. By so doing, the first or second laws of thermodynamics are not contravened; in fact it embraces those laws rather than violating them.’

  Noah gave Richard an eyebrows-raised look, making it clear he invited a response. Receiving only a blank look, he continued.

  ‘It is so unfortunate that our predicament has usurped the plans I had in store for you. Our visit to the Magus would have been a wonderful opportunity to pose all of your questions, and would have afforded the opportunity to obtain answers from the most eminent of sources on Terra Nova.’