Chapter Five: The Proposal to Resurrect the Pharaoh

At the edge of the Milky Way, a modest red dwarf star was encircled by planets and their moons, forming a system remarkably similar to the Solar System, though much smaller and with fewer planets—a miniature version, so to speak. The highest form of intelligence reigning over this star system was a species known as the Taal, deemed by many to be the masterpiece of God and close kin to the people of Earth. The planet Taal mirrored Earth's environment almost perfectly, and the Taal themselves closely resembled humans in form and life. They were a powerful and distinguished civilization.

Having transformed numerous planets and satellites, the Taal had spread throughout their stellar neighborhood. Their technology was formidable, granting them the ability to harvest energy and matter directly from their star. Due to the slow rotation of their planet, a single day on Taal equated to six Earth months. Thus, morning was the most cherished and eagerly anticipated time for the Taal.

Distinct from terrestrial architecture, the Taal built their homes beneath the surface, a tradition born after their atmosphere had once completely vanished. Only lower forms of life inhabited the planet’s surface, which was maintained in an impeccable ecological state. The Taal were the sole sovereigns of Taal, and under the shelter of advanced science, all other life forms on the planet were protected by their benevolence.

During daylight, the dim red light of their star was captured by collectors, which then transmitted the light into the underground pyramid dwellings. Weddings, ceremonies, research, education, agriculture, indeed all facets of social life, unfolded within these subterranean pyramids. This way of life was born from a history of environmental catastrophe—once, the Taal had devastated their planet’s geology and ecosystems, overexploiting minerals and petroleum until the magnetic field vanished. Without its shield, the atmosphere slowly dissipated, countless species perished, and the Taal were forced underground to escape their star’s radiation.

Through the tireless efforts of Taal scientists, the planet’s magnetic field was eventually restored, and in time, the atmosphere was renewed under the direction of their advanced technology. The pyramids, a testament to innovation in adversity, became their sanctuaries. Even after the restoration of the natural environment, the Taal preferred the comfort of their underground pyramids.

Beneath the surface of the equator lay the Taal King’s subterranean pyramid palace. One morning, as the King was busily attending to planetary affairs, his secretary approached: “Director G of the Taal Interstellar Intelligence Bureau requests an audience.”

“Let him in,” the King replied.

“Your Majesty,” Director G began, “we have received an alert from the Earth Pyramid. Analysis suggests that a special energy wave, likely emitted by the Quartpa, has triggered the alarm we installed in the pyramid’s core. The secret of the pyramid may have been deciphered by the Quartpa, and our brethren on Earth could now be at risk from this ancient foe.”

The King’s expression turned grave. “Summon all personnel responsible for the Earth Pyramid project,” he commanded.

One by one, the Taal entered the royal palace. They averaged three meters in height, with ruddy skin and no hair—a striking sight. The King’s secretary guided them to a waiting area; these were the experts in charge of managing and researching the pyramid projects.

In a grand hall, the King sat at the center, solemnly instructing his attendants to admit the assembled experts. Although the Taal could overcome gravity when launching spacecraft and for certain industrial tasks, their physical nature still kept them accustomed to its pull. Like humans, they entered the opulent hall and bowed before the King, who invited them to be seated.

“I have not gathered you here to commend or to criticize, but to entrust you with a vital mission,” the King began. “According to intelligence from our Interstellar Bureau, the pyramid we constructed on Earth may have been discovered and deciphered by our old adversaries, the Quartpa. Our kin, the humans of Earth, may soon face peril. Against the Quartpa, fragile Earthlings are defenseless. If the Quartpa uncover our Solar System plan, our efforts to resettle on Earth could be jeopardized. We must uphold our freedom, defend our right to exist, and protect the people of Earth—it is our religious duty, the will of God, and we must not defy it.”

The news that Earth was in danger, and from the dreaded Quartpa no less, left the assembly stunned. The scientists murmured anxiously, urging the King to act swiftly.

“Earthlings are our brothers,” the King continued. “Earth and the entire Solar System are our destined future and indispensable resources for survival. The Earth Project is not only the key to the revival of Taal civilization but also the core of our faith. If the Quartpa seize the Solar System and bar our way, no Taal could accept such an outcome. Should our plan collapse, Earth’s frail civilization would fall prey to other alien invaders. Thus, I summon you today to initiate a special mission: to protect Earth and its people.”

The Supreme Military Commander, M, spoke: “We face a grave dilemma. The ignorant, naive, and vulnerable humans are unaware of our existence. Arming the Earthlings to help them defend themselves would be extremely difficult. May I ask Your Majesty—should we consider reviving the Pharaoh whose body lies within the Earth Pyramid? If the Quartpa conquer Earth, the Pharaoh could lead the humans in resistance.”

A Taal priest added, “I believe the intelligence of present-day humans is not yet sufficient to comprehend the wisdom of the Pharaoh. Yet the greatest obstacle is time. We lack the opportunity to prepare the Earthlings themselves. Their internal tribal conflicts are fierce, and arming them requires religious unification, but their beliefs are fractured, and some have none at all. I suggest we dispatch Taal envoys to investigate Earth in person, to uncover the truth before determining an appropriate response.”

The King pondered. “Whether we should dispatch agents to Earth directly, or revive the Pharaoh within the pyramid to lead humans in their own defense, I cannot decide at this moment. We require more reliable intelligence before making the right choice. For now, I ask each of you to prepare for your respective responsibilities. Whatever strategy we adopt, we must not act rashly; whatever may occur, our faith must remain unshaken. Intelligence Director G, proceed to the Solar System and land on Earth at once. Gather comprehensive information on Quartpa activities in the Solar System and on Earth.”

Thunderous applause filled the hall, lauding the wisdom of the King’s command.