[center][h2]Artifacts[/h2][/center] [center][img]https://i.imgur.com/YGKOIA3.jpg[/img] [/center] The Earth-That-Was Museum and Archive presented an imposing countenance to the general public. Patrons would ascend a broad stairway, under the watchful eyes of two white marble lions. The building’s facade was all heavy stone block construction boasting three tiers of windows. The copper roof glittered beneath Pelorum’s sun, it’s steep pitch rising another ten meters above the darkened stone wall, upon which traditional gargoyles and the mystic guardians of numerous cultures shared a perpetual vigil. A pair of ornate doors served as the grand entrance, though there were used only for celebratory events and the occasional private function. The museum’s paying customers were issued through a pair of simple revolving doors which deposited them before a smiling ticket clerk. On this day, the lobby resembled the grand hall of an ancient cathedral. “Notre Dame,” Edina’s eyes traversed the soaring columns and high pitched roof to settle on one of the magnificent stained glass windows, whose colors were projected onto the floor by an afternoon sun. She’d been largely silent during their visit, holding back as Yuri conducted the business portion with Mrs. Henrietta Cornwall, the museum’s founder and primary benefactor. “Correct,” the elder woman’s face lit in a delighted grin. “I’m so pleased. We’ve been very painstaking in our recreation of Notre Dame. Still, it’s a rare eye that recognizes the sanctuary.” The young woman’s smile was sheepish as she answered, “It was a school project, I’m afraid. Once you learn just what I don’t know you won’t be so impressed. But…can I ask a question? The roof,” Edina’s eyes coursed once more across the sturdy wooden beams and planking. “Is this from before the fire?” “And you said you wouldn’t impress me,” Mrs. Cornwall laughed. “Yes! Yes it is! It’s our good fortune that before the fire of twenty nineteen, the entire structure had undergone a thorough data mapping, and a wonderfully accurate redrawing of the construction blueprints. Digital preservation,” the curator’s smile was genuine as she regarded the museum lobby. “As a bit of a history buff, I spend a great deal of time and energy tracking the few tangible artifacts carried on our colony ships. As you saw,” she turned her gaze toward the two younger visitors, “they are wonders to behold. But without this,” her hand swept across the expansive view, “even items so revered as a Faberge egg, the Gutenberg Bible, and even King Tutankhamen himself suffer for want of context.” Yuri studied their surroundings. “I’m amazed that this is all holographic,” he shook his head. “For the life of me, I can’t spot the projection sources.” The old woman nodded appreciatively. “I know only enough to be dangerous,” she offered, “but our technical chief tells me that we mask their presence by changing locations to match light sources in the simulation.. The sun, shining through that window, for instance. A holo projector is tucked there. Every night after close, our crew resets the lobby environment to match the next day’s environment. Tomorrow,” she gave the first mate a smile, “this space will be the central plaza of Vatican Square.” Edina met this news with an excited grin. “I think you just sold two tickets.” “Nonsense,” Cornwall brushed the notion aside. “You and your crew carried an Egyptian king to his new home. You’ll be welcome here as my guests. By the way,” she fixed Edina and Yuri with a mildly raised eyebrow, “we’re christening our new Aviation Pavilion with a nineteen forties themed celebration tomorrow evening. There’ll be period clothing, a big band, and dancing. It just so happens,” Henrietta smiled, “that I’ve a couple open seats at my table. Would you care to join us?” “Nineteen forties aircraft,” Yuri replied, “and big band jazz and swing? I wouldn’t miss it!” “So that’s how you’re asking to take me dancing?” Edina delivered a playful nudge.