Free A New Day by Ben Winston

history Mother related to you, our pods were buried deeply underground. This base was built somewhat close to the surface, so a transport system tunnel was dug to connect our pod network to the base. Our pod group is the closest to this base, but it is much deeper," he finished.
    "We find it amazing that so many people could survive for so many thousands of years buried deeply underground here. It is truly an event of epic proportions," Hjoolous said. "I am certain many will simply not believe it, however, we will make certain the event is logged into the histories of the Empire making it official."
    "We appreciate that, Majesty. Perhaps after some preparations, we could welcome those that would like to come and see for themselves. Although we do plan on keeping and to continue using the pods, I am certain that a good share of our people will wish to return to the surface. Living underground has its advantages, but we were meant to live in the sunshine," Ben replied.
    "As are most of our brothers in the Empire," Hjoolous said nodding. There are two races that are subterranean by nature, though. I am certain they would be most impressed with the extent and ingenuity of what has been done here though." He paused. "This transit system really spans the entire planet?"
    Ben nodded. "Yes Majesty. A flat out transit to the other side of the world would take about eight local hours. Of course in practice, it does take longer, since the tubes are in use by the other residents as well."
    Hjoolous shook his head. "Amazing, we do have similar transport systems in the Empire, but none of them are as vast as this one."
    "I have been told that some of our engineers are already working on plans to extend the system to the surface cities and installations. They wish to connect all the Aeries and major population centers on the planet. It will be a major undertaking, since the network would have to be almost tripled in size and complexity in order to handle the increased load," Ben replied. He chuckled, "One very bright young man is even working a way of extending it up to a space station in orbit. He claims it would lessen the cost, as well as the transit time, while increasing the total amount of both passengers and cargo that could be handled."
    Ranger T'Gree shook his head. "I don't think he'll be able to do it, Prime. There is a very strong rotational sheer when dealing with orbital mechanics. A rigid structure like that would be shattered even before it could be built."
    "As I understand it, Ranger, these tubes are not rigid. They flex and can move to adjust to shifting conditions underground like earthquakes and magma displacements in the deeper areas. Don't get me wrong, they can still be damaged, but not as easily as a rigid structure. I'm not an engineer though, so I don't know very much more than that," Ben replied. "I believe the original designer is living in one of the west coast pods. You can contact her for the details of the system if you wish."
    "If time permits, I will do that. Thank you Prime Council," T'Gree replied.
    The small group talked about nothing important until the car arrived at the Command Pod. This time, Ben led the group only a short distance before coming to a doorway protected by two of the Imperial Guard. Ben noticed that they were both very tall, but luckily the ceilings in this area were much higher than the norm to allow for the trees in the atrium to grow to maturity.
    The Guards opened the doors, and Ben led the Emperor and his party inside.
    "Majesty, I apologize for the small size and poor accommodations. However, this is the best we could come up with for you," Ben replied.
    Hjoolous was looking around himself in awe. It was an entire forest underground! "Prime Council, there is no need for apology! This place is simply wonderful! How did you get a forest to grow this far from the sun? Dhana has to have blessed this place in order for the plants to be so healthy."
    "Part of the design of our pods was