Chapter 8: The Messatii's Goals
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"What is this thing?" Hao asked as he stood staring at a large metallic
object with several dim lights.

"It's a computer," Maru answered.  "The power is very low though, it won't
work much longer."

"A computer?  What kind of magic is that?"

"THE MESSATII DO NOT NEED MAGIC!!!!!" Maru shouted and took several steps
towards Hao.  Even though Hao had made no move towards his sword, Maru
stopped as she realized she had no weapon.  "I'm sorry, I had forgotten
that you have no knowledge of the Messatii.  We Messatii have no need of
magic.  In factm it was our Emperor's goal to destroy magic from this
world.  As it is still my goal."

"Magic is very powerful.  How do you expect to overcome it?"

"With technology," Maru answered.

"Technology?" Hao questioned.

"Yes, machines, man-made things, things that are not powered by magic,"
Maru answered, a hint of frustration in her voice.

"Oh!  You mean science!" Hao exclaimed.

"Yes, in a way," Maru answered.  "Technology is the what you get from
applying science."

"Oh, so this computer is a piece of technology?" Hao asked.

"Yes," Maru answered.  "And it says I was in stasis for 1368 years."

"Whoa!  That makes you old!" Hao exclaimed.

"Don't remind me," Maru muttered.  Then her tone changed.  "Follow me."
Then Maru slid open another panel and disappeared.  After a moment of
consideration, Hao followed her.