Absolute Knowledge Box Set (Books 1-3)

by Drew Cordell

  “Trying to impress a girl?”

  “More or less,” I conceded.

  She smiled and nodded in approval, then raised her hand to her ear. “Yes sir, I’ll send him in.” Caeldra looked at me. “Mind your manners and treat him with respect,” she said in a serious tone.

  I nodded and thanked her before stepping forward and opening the door. The office was rather small but contained a large wooden desk that had neat stacks of books on either side. Most of the surface was a large holoprojector that was currently turned off. Behind the desk sat an elderly man with thick brown glasses who was wearing a crisp, gray button-up shirt and brown slacks. He was considerably well dressed compared to the rugged appearance of most of the Guild members in their leather. He had a sharp looking nose and many wrinkles on his face which exposed his age. Caeldra closed the door after I walked in.

  “Ah, Jake I presume? I’m Master Aarlen.”

  “Yes sir,” I said, careful to be polite and respectful.

  “Please have a seat, Jake. I’m very excited to speak with you. Edgar has told me a little bit about what you’ve done with your mind. He also mentioned you were the one that found this copy of An Essay Concerning Human Understanding,” he said as he pulled the book from under the desk. “I was quite pleased to find the complete set of essays in print form. We had a digital file of most of the work, but we were missing a few pages that were lost due to corrupted data.”

  I swallowed. “Mr. Barton has been very kind and has helped me through a lot over the years. After teaching me layering and mental projections, he wanted me to speak with you due to what happened to me. I was hoping you could give me guidance.”

  “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another,” he said with a smile.

  “Sir?”

  “Proverbs 27:17. It’s a verse from an ancient book. I’m sure you don’t know what I’m talking about, and that’s quite all right. Think of it like this: you’ve come to me for guidance with your layering and projecting. I am quite experienced with both and can probably help you. In doing so, I would likely gain something in return, be it a new friend or new information; perhaps I’ll even learn to do something new. In our conversation, we are able to both improve on some level. Now, tell me exactly what you’ve done.”

  I told him everything that happened to me in my projection of my mind. He sat and listened with appreciation as I told my story, remaining quiet until I finished.

  “You most likely had six divisions of your mind. As it was the first time you had divided your mind in such a way, I’m quite surprised you were able to manage what you did. The fact that you managed to create them instantly is even more incredible.” He paused and folded his hands across the desk.

  “Let me tell you what happened and why things were the way they appeared. As you create more divisions of your mind, you delve deeper and deeper into what I like to call your sleeping mind. On a daily basis, we suppress thoughts and ideas, burying them, creating natural layering that protects us. We hide our fears, painful memories, and nightmares deep down.

  “As far as I and all the Unbound before me have learned, there is no hard limit to how many subdivisions we can create. I can consistently produce thirteen, the late Master Robert, my mentor, was able to create sixteen before he passed. It varies by individual, but who is to say there is a limit? The Unbound are individuals who are able to unlock the potential of the brain to do amazing things. Based on your experience and the data Edgar sent me, I think you’ve got the potential to become the next great Unbound.”

  “What do the Unbound do in the Champions of Liberty?”

  Master Aarlen smiled. “The brain is more powerful than any computer, no matter how fast it is. Computers will always be limited by the sum of their components, the brain is not. Think about it, the brain is a dense block of neurons that can communicate with each other in endless varieties. The Unbound are able to use projections and subdividing to create encryption codes that are virtually unsolvable. By breaking portions of the code down and spreading them throughout multiple layers of our mind, much like what you did when Edgar had you hide the box, we are able to protect and preserve our data in a way that the Government will never hope to understand.

  “Even if the Government found our Knowledge base, it would take lifetimes for a quantum computer to break down the work that has been done by the Unbound over the last hundred years. The Unbound protect and preserve information through the ages to pass on to future generations. We defend the truth, and in doing so, the truth protects us. Nothing is more absolute than the laws of mathematics which will always hold the test of time. They were there in the beginning, and they will be there in the end.”

  “I don’t know what to say, Master Aarlen. You think I could become an Unbound?”

  “Yes, and I’d like you to train with me. I’ve already discussed this with Edgar, and he is discussing your recruitment into the Guild with the Council, something in which I have no say. Would you like to learn from me?”

  “Does it ever get better? More subdivisions, I mean.”

  He frowned. “No, it gets worse. As you progress in your studies, it will get worse, but you will learn to better control your mind and internally manage your mental strain. We as Unbound work to develop layered encryptions over time; it is not a fast process. If I am permitted to teach you by the Council, you will learn to break free of your subdivisions instantly. Things can get quite dangerous as you delve deeper into your mind. Sometimes you need to break free quickly and escape something awful.” He frowned and rubbed his eyes with his hands after removing his glasses. “I’m sorry Jake, I don’t mean to scare you away. We find truth to be the most valuable trait and method of approach to situations in the Guild.”

  “I’d like to train with you if I am permitted, Master Aarlen.”

  This was a man who could teach me great things, a man who could give me new skills to live the best life possible.

  A smile appeared on his face. “Splendid. I hope the Council will admit you. You must excuse me, Jake, I’ve got another appointment which I must keep. It has been a pleasure meeting you and I expect great things from you.”

  “Thank you for everything, Master Aarlen,” I said as I exited the room. Caeldra was still standing outside, and she motioned another man wearing the Guild’s leather jacket inside as I exited.

  “So?”

  “He wants me to become his student,” I said with a smile.

  “Wow. I’ll be seeing a lot more of you if you’re admitted to the Guild then.”

  “Should I wait here for Edgar?”

  “Yes, you shouldn’t go wandering around since you aren’t part of the Guild. It wouldn’t sit well with the Council.”

  Just as I started nodding, I saw Edgar walking toward us.

  “How did your meeting with Master Aarlen go?” he asked me.

  “It went quite well.”

  He nodded. “Jake, the Champions of Liberty would like to admit you as a member of the organization … but there’s a slight problem.”

  11 SKETCHBOOK

  ∆∆∆

  Edgar explained I would join the Champions of Liberty as an Initiate. From there, I would progress to a Journeyman, and finally a Champion. These were the three basic ranks within the Guild, and the Council had explained to Edgar that as an Initiate, I would be unable to be instructed by Master Aarlen. I would need to be at least a Journeyman with a prior sponsorship to an advanced path. I could, however, work under Master Aarlen in maintaining the books and knowledge base as a paid position, and it was one I graciously accepted.

  I sat down with Edgar at a table near the pub, and he ordered us each a short mug of a dark beer. I watched with fascination as the bartender poured the mugs and used a wooden knife to slice off the extra foam on top. The beer was strangely delicious. It had a strong flavor and tasted of wheat.

  “Now Jake, I know you were expecting to learn from Master Aarlen, but working under him for the time being while
you seek sponsorship elsewhere will help you make some money and get acquainted with how things work down here. As an Archivist, Master Aarlen will provide you with an enormous reading list to continue your education. I’m afraid I won’t be teaching you anymore, either. We need to focus on finding you a sponsor who is at least a Journeyman in rank. You need to consider what it is you’d like to do in the Guild if becoming an Unbound doesn’t work out.”

  “What options do I have and what do you recommend?”

  “There are several paths to choose. There are Runners, which are paid quite well in the Guild, and it’s the path I started with. You mostly complete odd errands and various tasks, but will also learn to fight if you need to. You can become a Tradesman and work to improve our commerce and working relations with other organizations. Or you can join our military and train to be a soldier or guard, though life as a soldier is pretty dull right now. Those are the options for official sponsorships that could land you an apprenticeship under Master Aarlen in the future. You can be whatever you want so long as it doesn’t interfere with the code of conduct, something you’ll have to read thoroughly before we leave today.”

  “Did you enjoy being a Runner?”

  “Very much so. But you need to know it’s dangerous. If that’s the path you choose, I know the perfect sponsor.”

  “Would I be able to change my path if it didn’t suit me? And will I still be able to live my normal life on the surface?”

  “If it doesn’t suit you, then you are welcome to change your path. You would be able to live your normal life, and you’re actually required to live on the surface as a Runner. We like to have eyes and ears in the Slums wherever possible.”

  It wasn’t a hard decision. I wasn’t ready to give up my life with Mary and it seemed like becoming a Runner would be my best shot at maintaining as normal of a life as I could.

  “I’d like to become a Runner for my advanced path and work as an Archivist under Master Aarlen on my off time.”

  Edgar smiled. “An excellent choice. I will alert your potential sponsor. Let’s go read the Code today before we leave so you’ll be ready to be sworn in tomorrow.”

  We walked back over to the library and sat down at a large desk. Edgar brought over a small book and slid it in front of me. “Read it cover to cover and ask me if you have any questions.”

  It was a small book of only thirteen pages; the code of conduct for members of the Guild. The basic idea was that I would swear to always act in the interest of providing for and protecting the Guild, safeguard and preserve the lives of civilians, and work to establish and preserve liberty and political freedom. Everything seemed reasonable, despite being the most treasonous thing against the Government I had ever read. I was anxious to join and begin my education. I wanted nothing more than to hone my brain and learn more truth. I was hoping to train under Master Aarlen and didn’t care if I had to be a Runner for a while to get there.

  “I don’t have any questions; it all seems pretty straight forward.”

  “Great. Let’s start heading back to the surface. Mary will be expecting us for dinner soon.”

  Edgar and I exited the Guild Hall and took the lift back up to the narrow tunnel. “What does Caeldra do?” I asked him as we proceeded down the dark path.

  “She’s a Runner.”

  It was starting to make sense. Caeldra obviously worked under Master Aarlen.

  “Is she training under Master Aarlen?”

  “Yes, but in data technology. She’s not attempting to become an Unbound. She is also the head Archivist—best one we’ve got by far. She’ll make an ideal sponsor for you as she can help you improve as a Runner and an Archivist.”

  A memory came to me from the projection I had been trapped in; the conversation between my father and Edgar regarding my becoming an Archivist. I decided to chalk it up to coincidence. Still, how could I have known the position extended to the Champions of Liberty having known nothing about the Guild up until this point of my life?

  “I see. Thank you,” I responded.

  We proceeded the rest of the way up through the Undercity in silence. Once we returned to the surface, I went back to my flat to freshen up before dinner at Edgar’s. The day’s travels had left me smelling like sweat and sulfur. I expected Mary would be by later and decided a shower was in order. I hoped there would be a good time to give her the small sketchbook.

  I returned to Edgar’s flat and was rushed in as usual. Edgar already had his apron on and was chopping some vegetables for the dinner.

  “Is there anything I can help with?”

  “Not yet. You and Mary can start on the soup once she gets here,” he said as he diced an onion.

  “Why do you choose to live in the Slums instead of the Guild Hall? I don’t see the appeal in living in a standard issue flat when you can live so much better.”

  “Well, that’s a tough question. It started as a requirement. I was a Runner for fifteen years and was required to live on the surface. When I was elected Justicar, I never made the move despite the residency requirement being lifted. Living in the Slums gives me perspective; it allows me to see the true value in what I do, what I choose to fight for.”

  “Why do you teach Government sponsored classes if you hate the Government so much?”

  “It was a requirement. I needed a job on the surface—something legal. I had to find something to do that would make it appear to the Government that I was a normal citizen. With my scores, I was able to become a teacher. I made much more as a Runner, but again, it’s all about blending in and it’s something I don’t mind doing. You’ll note I only teach subjects of truth. As far as I know, no one has ever returned to work as a Thinker after joining the Guild. You don’t have it yet, but you’ll be required to carry around a small glass vial of cyanide in case you’re caught and the Government interrogates you.”

  “As in the chemical compound that is extremely lethal?” I asked.

  “Yes, unfortunately so. It’s mixed with some other chemicals to make it as painless as possible. Sometimes it’s necessary to preserve the greater good. It will also give you a way out if you’re stuck dying somewhere,” Edgar said, his voice grim.

  I hadn’t even considered something like that. It was a scary thought.

  “But don’t worry. It’s only meant to prevent a slow and painful death if your fate is sealed. It’s more of an insurance policy, really,” he said.

  There was a knock on the door.

  “We can continue this conversation on the way through the Undercity tomorrow morning. Let’s enjoy a nice treason-free dinner with Mary.”

  I quickly let Mary in and smiled. She pulled off her bandana and light jacket. She was wearing her orange dress, the fanciest thing she owned by far. It was by no means fine clothing, but it made her look as beautiful as ever.

  “What’s the occasion?” I asked.

  “Oh, I just want to dress up from time to time,” she said as she twirled around in a circle, showcasing the dress.

  “Beautiful as always,” I said with a grin.

  Mary blushed and looked at me with her big eyes the way she always did when I said something sweet. That look always made my heart race and my thoughts grow frantic, but I loved it.

  “Ah, Mary. It’s great to see you. You and Jake can get started on the soup if you want. I’m almost done prepping the ingredients. Just be sure to keep Chef Ashton away from the intricate workings of the meal,” Edgar said.

  Mary laughed, and the two of us entered the kitchen. Under orders from Edgar, we washed our hands in the sink with some drinking water and soap before getting started on the soup. I picked up the large steel soup pot from under one of the cabinets and filled it halfway with drinking water before setting it on the stove to boil. Mary and Edgar far surpassed my cooking abilities, so I was more or less always assigned to do the menial tasks such as lifting a pot, measuring out some water, fetching measuring spoons, etc. I was never trusted with dispensing spices, cutting vege
tables, or doing any of the actual food chemistry that turned simple ingredients into delicious meals.

  “Chef Mary, I will trust the creation of the soup to you and give you access to my extended spice rack,” Edgar said with a grin as he reached up into the cabinet and pulled down a wooden box filled to the brim with glass spice bottles. Some of the bottles were wrapped in cloth ribbon.

  Mary’s eyes lit up. “Where did you get all of these!” she exclaimed as she shifted through the box.

  “They were a gift from a friend. I don’t use them often, but would really enjoy a fine soup this evening. I trust you will find them useful in spicing things up if you’ll pardon the pun.”

  She began opening the bottles and smelling the contents inside. There were all sorts of different looking herbs, seeds, and spice concoctions, all of which were unlabeled.

  “It seems I have forgotten to purchase some bread. You two keep cooking; I’ll run to the store.” Edgar brought over the tray of diced vegetables and set it on the counter. When Mary turned away, he made a strange gesture in the air, drawing a rectangle with his fingers. I suddenly understood. He was giving me a chance to give the gift to Mary. Alone.

  Edgar stepped out and headed off in the direction of the store. He was wearing the same jacket as before; I was pretty sure it was the Nexweave.

  “Jake, can you pass me the vegetables please?”

  “Sure,” I responded as I handed her the tray. My heart was already pounding in my chest. How was I going to do this? Would it be awkward? What if she didn’t like the gift?

  I pushed the fears out of my head and decided to try a real-world application of the small amount of layering training I had received. I focused and pushed the fear of rejection under a segment of my mind which I sealed under a barrier. I was overcome with an instant sense of calmness. When Mary wasn’t looking, I smiled at the minor success I just experienced. My fear of timing and uncertainty of when to give her the gift was replaced by knowledge. I should do it once everything was simmering on the burner, when there wasn’t anything to do but wait and talk. For the next twenty minutes, I assisted Mary with menial tasks and waited until we were done with the cooking. I was very thankful Edgar wasn’t back yet in case I embarrassed myself. I suspected he was giving me ample time to give her the gift, knowing I'd try to delay it as long as possible. He was such a great friend.