The entire world held its breath in anticipation, as the news broke two months ago: Translab, the renowned scientific institution, had achieved a groundbreaking breakthrough in portal technology. After years of tireless research and experimentation with the enigmatic dark matter, their team of brilliant scientists had successfully teleported two small coins between two laboratories located in different corners of the country. This remarkable feat sent shockwaves through the scientific community, leaving everyone astounded by the immense possibilities that lay ahead. As the test results confirmed the safety and reliability of this new mode of transportation for goods, the stage was set for a momentous transformation. Contractors were swiftly summoned to the labs, one situated in the bustling metropolis of Chicago and the other in the vibrant heart of New York City. These laboratories would soon be converted into the pioneering hubs for the newly established Transtech transport company. The purpose was clear: to facilitate the instantaneous transfer of goods between these two major cities, revolutionizing the entire landscape of logistics. The implications of this technological marvel were not lost on the world. Every city, from the smallest town to the grandest metropolis, yearned to be a part of this transportation revolution. Yet, amidst the fervent excitement, a heated debate ensued regarding the safety and viability of this uncharted territory. The transportation of people through these portals, it was argued, would require meticulous testing and years of scrutiny before the green light could be given. However, the allure of the transport portal was simply irresistible. The company and its investors were reaping unimaginable profits, while the United States government's Department of Commerce International Trade Administration was brimming with uncontainable enthusiasm. They envisioned a future where international trade would explode between any cities connected by these portal hubs. Moreover, this innovative technology was seen as a powerful tool to combat the escalating threat of greenhouse gases, streamlining transportation and reducing the carbon footprint. With each passing day, the tests continued, meticulously verifying the safety protocols required for the transportation of living beings. And yet, it seemed that destiny had already set its course. The momentum was unstoppable, and soon, the world would witness an event of monumental significance.
It was a painstaking process that spanned over a decade, as negotiations dragged on to determine the next cities that would serve as crucial hubs for the revolutionary transportation system. Another five years were then dedicated to constructing the necessary facilities in each of these chosen cities before the system could finally be brought online. Meanwhile, amidst this arduous wait, a laboratory in Los Angeles underwent a remarkable transformation, morphing into a Trade Hub that would serve as a testing ground for the much-anticipated multihub system, which would grant travelers the freedom to select their desired destinations. Initially, it seemed relatively straightforward to establish a connection between the first two hubs, New York and Chicago. However, progress stagnated when it came to finding a viable means of linking Los Angeles to both New York and Chicago. Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and months into years as the company relentlessly strived to overcome this formidable obstacle. The problem was finally solved allowing for choice of destination but frequency between teleportation's was increased. Worry of what this might mean once the additional locations were added kept pressure on the team to find a better solution before the big event, their tireless efforts concealed from the public eye. Failure was not an option for Translab, and so the scientist's toiled day and night, driven by an unwavering determination. With the worldwide launch of the system looming ever closer, the company found themselves counting down the final weeks. Yet, frustratingly, not all the problems had been resolved. The tension in the air was palpable, but the company remained steadfast in their commitment to deliver on their promise. Just mere hours before the highly anticipated grand unveiling of their innovative project, a momentous breakthrough finally emerged. This breakthrough was a game-changer, promising to significantly decrease the portal downtime of the three already functional portals in the United States, while also enabling simultaneous usage. However, the timing of this crucial development was far from ideal. It materialized in the wee hours of the morning, hours before the imminent launch. These last-minute alterations, vital for the realization of their audacious vision to connect all eight cities, arrived too late for any comprehensive testing or the opportunity to smoothen out any potential glitches. Nevertheless, there was a glimmer of hope that this new link would also offer enhanced security for the portals, a comforting thought amidst the chaos and uncertainty. Only time would reveal the true extent of their success, as the world held its breath, eagerly awaiting the commencement of this groundbreaking transportation system.
The events that followed would forever alter the course of history, captivating the attention of the entire world and utilizing every technological advancement available. In every corner of the globe, renowned figures, the affluent, and world leaders converged upon the grandest worldwide celebration and publicity spectacle ever witnessed. As autumn painted the skies in the northern hemisphere and spring blossomed in the southern, the weather seemed to align perfectly with the magnitude of this occasion - surpassing all expectations and dreams. Streets in every city pulsated with jubilance, hosting exuberant parades and vibrant block parties in honor of this groundbreaking technological marvel. The world, on the brink of transformation, was on the cusp of an era that would be etched in the annals of legend.
Every city street teemed with a sea of humanity, as the festivities, generously funded by eager investors, sought to promote this revolutionary mode of transportation. The air was electric with anticipation as the music erupted, setting the stage for the grand commencement of the celebrations in eight remarkable cities. The countdown to the activation of the Trans Tech Portals commenced, spanning the better part of a day, accompanied by captivating keynote speeches, engaging games, and an unrelenting crescendo of excitement. This day would forever be etched in the collective memory of mankind.
As the clock struck 6:00 pm Eastern Standard Time, counting down screens showed a different portal location - 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. For a brief moment, silence permeated the air, as if the world itself held its breath. Then, emanating from the portals scattered across the globe, a low hum reverberated, growing louder with each passing second. The sheer intensity of the sound compelled all onlookers to instinctively cover their ears, their eyes transfixed upon the enigmatic portals. Live cameras in the United States relayed the scene from the bustling streets of New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, while split screens showcased the portals in Icheon, South Korea; Sydney, Australia; Berlin, Germany; Dubai, Saudi Arabia; and Mexico City, Mexico.
Each portal occupied a vast expanse, its colossal dimensions dwarfing even the Los Angeles Angels Stadium. The floor, meticulously tiled, featured a central white section spanning approximately 40 feet in diameter, encircled by obsidian tiles. Beyond this threshold lay a larger space, adorned with plain grey flooring. The walls, reminiscent of a colossal warehouse, bore the unique architectural imprints of each city, reflecting their individual flair. Towering lights suspended from the seemingly infinite ceiling bathed the area in a resplendent radiance, akin to the brilliance of a midday sun. Gradually, the luminosity began to flicker, waning as a shimmering phenomenon materialized above the white tiles. With each passing second, the shimmer intensified, casting a brilliant luminosity upon the surroundings. As if defying the laws of nature, the air itself rippled and commenced a slow counterclockwise rotation, akin to a whirlpool suspended in mid-air. The events unfolding before their eyes mirrored the televised footage of the previous portal initiation in Los Angeles, yet their blissful ignorance concealed the impending calamity.
Suddenly, in a cataclysmic instant, the tranquil ambiance was shattered. Instead of the anticipated ethereal glow and gentle breeze, a cataclysmic wave of energy surged forth from each portal, eclipsing all in its path. Horror-stricken gazes darted across the landscape, searching for an escape, but the energy wave surged forward with a velocity akin to the speed of sound, faster than any human could fathom. In a blink of an eye, devastation unfolded, obliterating everything in its wake. The catastrophic energy wave pulverized buildings, eradicating entire communities within a matter of seconds. The world watched in shock and disbelief, their connection to the unfolding disaster severed as cameras were silenced and electronics within a 400-mile radius of each portal succumbed to the overwhelming electromagnetic pulse. The portals shimmered and stabilized; their final form hidden from the eyes of humanity.
This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.
In the aftermath, the world powers stood paralyzed, overwhelmed by the magnitude of the devastation. Communication networks faltered, leaving them shrouded in a veil of ignorance, clueless as to the cause of this cataclysm. Time was required to secure the ravaged areas, as the energy wave had scorched a circular zone extending a quarter mile from the epicenter, while its destructive force extended an additional 5 miles, leaving entire communities flattened. Countless lives were lost, with many more left injured and maimed. Hospitals, spared from the direct impact, were inundated with the wounded, their efforts hampered by the absence of electricity and the sporadic functionality of vital electronic equipment. In the face of such adversity, communities rallied together, offering aid and solace to those in need. The military descended upon the ravaged landscapes, undertaking the arduous task of searching for survivors, while the devastated areas were cordoned off to safeguard the public.
Most world powers found themselves in a state of overwhelming chaos, their leaders intact but communication systems completely incapacitated. U S President William Day had just finished delivering a speech within site of the newly refurbished Portal Hub painted marble arches echoed the colors of the fall cherry blossoms with green leaves and pink flowers. Colorful banners and streets full of food vendors drew tens of thousands.
Now the desolate landscape stretched as far as the eye could see, an eerie space devoid of any remnants of its former existence. It was as if a cruel hand had wiped away all traces of what once stood there - no buildings, no parks, no signs of life. The aftermath of the catastrophic event hung in the air; a haunting stillness broken only by the gentle breeze that whispered through the barren wasteland. The scent of ozone lingered, reminiscent of the aftermath of a fierce thunderstorm, adding to the surreal atmosphere. In the center of it all a distortion where a 40-foot circle of white marble outlined with 10-foot of obsidian lay untouched, beyond it a perfectly circular pattern etched into now scorched earth, like a scar leading to the epicenter and cause of unimaginable destruction. Its reach extended for a quarter-mile radius, leaving no doubt of the sheer force that had unleashed this devastation. But the destruction did not stop there. The relentless blast continued on, toppling buildings like mere playthings, their shattered remains scattered in every direction. Rocks, wood, body parts, and other debris were flung mercilessly for miles, leaving a trail of shattered lives and rubble in their wake. As if mocking the devastation, a swirling cloud loomed high in the sky, an ominous reminder of the power that had been unleashed. It dared anything living to approach, a silent warning that danger still lurked in the aftermath.
Countless lives were lost, and the number of injured continued to rise. Hospitals near the destruction and fortunate enough to evade it were quickly inundated with wounded victims, but the absence of electricity and malfunctioning electronics hindered any efforts to help those with the most critical injuries. Despite the dire circumstances, communities rallied together, offering assistance, tirelessly searching for survivors and volunteering in devastated areas. For weeks after the event there was chaos in the streets, looting, robberies and violence in some areas. U S President Gloria Mendez, former Vice President, approached the situation with extreme caution, prioritizing the safety of the nation's citizens. The National Guard was sent in to curb the violence. Her adept handling of the disaster yielded remarkable success, and the prospect of returning to normalcy seemed within reach for the United States. Despite rumors of war overseas, the focus remained on recovery feeding the populace, rebuilding infrastructure, providing housing and healthcare. The Restoration of global communication and internet systems would take years to return to its past greatness while fixing the more antiquated land lines was simple in comparison. Needing a way to connect people and infrastructure that technology had a resurgence.
As everything settled and services normalized scientists began to press for access wanting nothing more than to delve in and study the areas around the portals, ever seeking answers despite the possible safety issues. Finally, as summer reached its peak the following year and despite lingering concerns. The decision was made to investigate they believed broken portals and allow access to scientist.
General Aceen Howser was assigned command of the first special unit to investigate the destruction and the portal in Los Angeles. That unites Commander Zain Sweet used drones to confirm the area clear of visual threats while scientists sent weather balloons to drift over the area to check for temperature, other weather phenonium and chemical hazards. The team comprised of a dozen special forces personnel and an equal number of scientists cautiously tread upon the rubble-strewn ground. No signs of life existed, save for the team itself, and were it not for the gentle breeze, the air would have been unbearable. But the stifling atmosphere was not the only thing that weighed heavily on their minds. The memories of the harrowing events that transpired nine months ago were still etched vividly in their collective consciousness. The mere thought of summer, with its warm embrace and carefree days, seemed like a distant memory, overshadowed by the weight of the world's traumatic event.
The scent of the fire had dissipated, but a crackling energy and the faint aroma of an impending thunderstorm caused the scientists and special forces to pause. The commander motioned for everyone to stop, his outstretched hand commanding attention. A peculiar distortion and a shadowy figure became visible ahead. Voices echoed in the minds of the team, terrified voices, murmuring and whimpering, freezing everyone who heard them in place. Concern and speculation on the phenomenon were forgotten as their minds were caressed with unadulterated fear. Commander Zain feeling the tendrils of thoughts not his own bellowed and gestured for the scientists then his team to retreat. The shout roused everyone from their stunned state long enough to begin moving away. The shadowy figure bowed as if a great weight pressed down upon it as a strange mist began to spread and steam of the figure, its gray tendrils reaching out like shadowy fingers. Everyone instinctively took several more steps back, before the voices returned and the mist overtook them. The ethereal fingers brushed a leg, a face, an arm or hand before the illusion shattered and the members each dropped to the ground energies sapped and wills tested or broken.
The team never reached the portal itself, but as the hours passed and the sun began to set, four individuals stumbled out from the midst of the devastation. Their disheveled appearance, tattered clothing, and battle-scarred bodies betrayed the intense personal struggle each had endured to return. Incoherent mumblings escaped their lips, as they appeared to be in a state of shock. Commander Zain emerged first, leading three of the scientists. Upon reaching the guards, Commander Zain saluted as his body trembled wresting for control, his knees buckled, his hand landing in the dirt, he looked up red eyed. "Evil is coming, coming, it's coming." pausing as he looked frantically side to side, "There is nothing you can do," he exclaimed, his voice fraught with desperation. His eyes continued searching, before fixating on a small wisp of gray fog that flowed around a massive heap of rubble, approximately twenty feet away. With newfound determination, Commander Zain swiftly rose to his feet, stiffened, dropped his rifle, and sprinted away from the fog, his screams reverberating through the air. The others, startled by the sudden commotion, turned their heads in horror and hastily followed suit. General Aceen Howser issued orders to retrieve the four visibly disturbed team members and dispatched another group to search for the remaining missing individuals. They cautiously moved forward, keeping a wide berth from the enigmatic fog, which possessed an eerie appearance and unsettling aura. Eventually, they located and brought back the remaining members of the team, all of whom were battered and unconscious. The medical professionals, scientists, and military personnel were left dumbfounded by the team's bizarre condition. The initial group that returned bodies were on the mend after a few days, but their minds were still deeply shaken. All four individuals moved far away from the city and retired. The remaining twenty members were admitted to a nearby hospital and languished for nearly two weeks. They had a verity of symptoms, it almost seemed as if they suffered from different ailments. Doctor and nurses struggled to understand and treat patients when testing proved nothing, medical procedures and medicine unhelpful. Despite the medical professions' dedication and resources, each unfortunate victim wasted away leaving only a dark dusty residue behind. Rumors spread as did the unknow illness and soon fanatics preached the event a warning from God and the sicknesses a scourge of the Seven Deadly Ills a punishment for our path of sin.
The world, forever changed by this catastrophic event, stood on the precipice of an uncertain future.