Induction into the SSP
Introduction
The concept of time travel and parallel timelines has long fascinated humanity, often explored in science fiction. However, the discussion surrounding the "20 and Back Program" introduces a more complex and controversial narrative. This program allegedly involves individuals being removed from their normal lives to serve in secret space missions for 20 years, only to be returned to their original timeline, age-regressed to their former selves. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of this program as described by Jason Rice, who shares his experiences and insights into the nature of time, space, and the technologies involved.
Understanding the 20 and Back Program
The Concept of Time and Parallel Timelines
At the heart of the 20 and Back Program is the idea of bifurcation in time. Jason Rice explains that when an individual enters the program, their original timeline continues to exist independently of their new experiences. After serving for 20 years, participants are age-regressed and returned to the exact moment they left, creating a complex interplay between their lived experiences and the timeline of their family and friends. This raises profound questions about the nature of existence and the validity of experiences that occur outside one's original timeline.
The Mechanics of Age Regression
Rice describes the age regression process as a technological marvel, where individuals are physically reverted to their original age before being sent back in time. This process is not merely a return to a previous state but involves a sophisticated understanding of time and space, suggesting that our current grasp of these concepts is still evolving. The implications of such technology challenge our understanding of reality and the potential for manipulating time.
Life in the Secret Space Program
Initial Experiences and Training
Upon entering the program, Rice recounts his initial experiences, including the stark transition from his everyday life to a highly classified environment. He describes his quarters as basic yet functional, equipped with manuals for various advanced technologies. The training involved not only physical preparation but also acclimatization to new technologies, such as nanite-enhanced hygiene products that required no water, showcasing the program's focus on efficiency in resource-limited environments.
Advanced Technologies and Enhancements
A significant aspect of Rice's training involved the use of nanite enhancement therapy (NET). These microscopic machines were injected into participants to augment their physical capabilities, improve healing, and provide protection against radiation. The enhancements were designed to optimize human performance, allowing individuals to sustain high levels of activity for extended periods. This raises ethical questions about the nature of such enhancements and their implications for human identity and agency.
Daily Life and Psychological Manipulation
Rice describes the daily routine within the program, which included signing up for pay that never materialized, filling out postcards to family members, and undergoing regular psychological evaluations. The postcards served as a means of maintaining the illusion of normalcy for families, while the psychological assessments were crucial for monitoring participants' mental states, especially in light of the mind-wiping procedures that followed their service.
The Briefing and Propaganda
The Reality of the Program
During a pivotal briefing, Rice and his fellow trainees were informed of their roles in defending planets from alien invasions. The presentation, led by a German colonel, emphasized patriotism and the importance of their mission, yet it was devoid of any mention of extraterrestrial assistance or the true nature of their service. This lack of transparency highlights the program's reliance on propaganda to recruit and maintain morale among participants.
The Illusion of Compensation
The promise of financial compensation upon completion of the program was another facet of the deception. Rice reveals that the reality was far from the enticing narrative presented during the briefing. Participants were led to believe they would return to a comfortable life with a financial nest egg, only to discover that the promised rewards were largely illusory. This manipulation of expectations underscores the psychological tactics employed by the program to ensure compliance and commitment.
Conclusion
The 20 and Back Program, as recounted by Jason Rice, presents a complex narrative that intertwines themes of time travel, advanced technology, and psychological manipulation. The experiences shared reveal not only the challenges faced by participants but also the ethical implications of such programs. As our understanding of time, space, and human enhancement continues to evolve, it is crucial to reflect on the potential consequences of these advancements. The discussion surrounding the 20 and Back Program invites us to consider the nature of reality, the integrity of our experiences, and the moral responsibilities that come with technological progress.
Pathogens and Space Viruses
Emery Smith relays his experience with bacteria and viruses originating off world. He explains that life thrives throughout the cosmos, even in the microscopic realms. Despite the implication of threats in science fiction media, he explains that the greatest danger concerning these pathogens is not extraterrestrial, but human-based organizations actively collecting these microorganism for their own research and development.
Invasion of a New World
After the fighting quelled on Planet One and cleanup underway, Jason Rice is given a new assignment. He is deployed to a new world which is also facing imminent invasion from an alien species. Nearly five years pass after the invasion and the battle is nearly lost. What will it take to turn the tide in this war, or will the invading forces finally conquer this world? And what will the true cost be, to these people?