Backstory #1

The Global Cheaters

"Asteroids may be collected using very strong rockets and highly sophistocated navigating software. When enough matter is gathered, a small planet-like body of rocks can be formed, using the proper tools and techniques. Tools used in this process include superpolymers, motors, hydraulics, gravity wells, nanobotical root systems, and even genuine lifeforms. The last tool can also be used to create bodies used for mostly entertainment purposes.

Techniques available are grouped into several categories, according to complexity. The simplest of these methods is "tying". Tying is the process of using superpolymers to glue, or "tie" the asteroids and other rocks together. The next level is "pushing". "Pushing" includes using motors and hydraulics to force the bodies togetherp; whether it is actually pushing or pulling doesn't make a difference. The last is "growing". The use of nanobots that replicate and form strands, weaving through the bodies of rock, and the process of planting lifeforms on the surfaces so as to grow the roots through every knook and cranny are the two ways of "growing" a globe.

The act of "growing" is useful for entertainment because it already requires the use of a small and simple ecosystem for the organisms to continue to live. Adding more organisms and atmosphere to the globe creates a more complex ecosystem to be studied or enjoyed, which consequently generates profit. This profit, when used well, can be invested into research which may further enhance the entertainment value of the life onboard the drifting body.

Uses of the research performed by the scientists on the staff of the globe contractors extend beyond entertainment value alone. They may be used to create more varieties of available food sources or recreational wildlife reserves. While it is far more dangerous to hold wild animals on the surface of an inhabited planet, some may derive pleasure from directly interacting with simpler lifeforms. This practice is looked down upon by the globe corporations, simply because they feel that their viewership will be decreased if more individuals partake in the raising of organisms for the unfinancial purposes of recreation and companionship.

While the development of techologies to create more environments suitable for life off of the planets is remarkable and beneficial, the forces behind the construction and running of these satellites are somewhat corrupt in their search for power and money. It may not be long before they have all less-than-sentient lifeforms banned from planets and solely contained on these small, fragile balls of rock."

- Huroesk Eph Tiulegh,
Chief Editor of "The Life and Times of Our System"
Friday, July 27, 67393 AD

(© OGrilla 2007)