“Professor Wilkins, take a look at this …”


    Marsha, a predoctoral astronomy student, showed charts, pictures, and coordinates.


    “Oh my! Could it be the one? Let’s find out.”


    The professor asked ‘Fred’—a superintelligence plugged into every known database:


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    P.Wilkins: Is it the one?


    Fred: Yes, it is an E.L.E. asteroid.


    P.Wilkins: Any recommendation for a plan of action?


    Fred: None.


    P.Wilkins: You mean it won’t wipe us out?


    Fred: It will end all human existence.


    P.Wilkins: We want to save humanity!


    Fred: Negative. There’s a high probability a new life form will evolve—more intelligent, peaceful, adaptive, and eco-friendly.