Futureperfect: Foreword

Malcom stood at the podium, and looked out into a sea of glass. Dozens of cameras faced him, unblinking glass eyes that would carry him image across the city, across the world. He spoke slowly and evenly, aware that his words would be translated into dozens of languages. He spoke to the cameras about hope, and dreams. About a vision of the future where mankind foresaw a utopia. About how a few brave men and women took the first steps to making that vision a reality. Technology was given to the masses. Medicine cured disease, and all who needed it were treated. The city began a glorious new stage of construction, and with time and dedication and perseverance a new city was built. And now, over 100 years after the vision began, it was now realized. The future was here and we had made it perfect together.

Malcom stepped away from the podium. In rooms nearby he could hear muted applause, as he imagined people were applauding in their living rooms, in bars, and in offices across the city. His heart swelled at the thought of it. His father was one of the visionaries who helped create this future. His wife was part of a cutting edge medical team, making leaps in the field of nanotechnology. His own contribution was as a programmer, and unfortunately, a peace keeper.

The light in the room began to flicker, and he became aware of a rumbling crashing noise. He began to move in slow motion, as the noise crescendoed into a final high pitched whine...