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Einstein said, we knew it was possible except for a few barriers we had to break through and now, thanks to a precious stone from a small Scottish town, we’ve done it. I’d like to introduce you to the Transporter Mark II.’
    Max’s heart flipped in her chest and she took a deep breath to get it back into rhythm.
    â€˜It’s similar to Ben’s Matter Transporter, but with a little more style. Much like designing the first Model T Ford and ending up in a Ferrari.’ Francis smiled at Ben.
    â€˜So fashion was never a talent of mine.’ Ben shrugged.
    Linden brushed down his marshmallow suit. ‘We can’t all be that lucky. Is this shower cap mucking up my hair?’
    Ben scowled and pulled Linden’s cap down over his face.
    Francis continued. ‘Many elements have been refined and, of course, it not only transports objects but people as well.’
    â€˜You did it!’ Max yelled.
    â€˜You guys are brilliant!’ cried Linden.
    Francis blushed and focused on the Transporter Mark II. He never liked it when people made a fuss over him.
    â€˜Let me explain how it works. As you can see, it is still is a small device with a sensor/camera, power light, a rod at the side and an LED screen with a grid. The solar cells and cord have been replaced by the energy of the Aurora Stone and the key panel has been replaced by a voice recognition system or if you need to be quiet, by writing your request with the rod on the LED screen.’
    â€˜So I can just talk to it or write down what I want?’ Max asked.
    â€˜Yes. It’s incredibly efficient technology. When you need to find a location you simply tell it where you want to go and it will find thecoordinates. For multiple transportation, you can still use the scanner and outline the objects or people you wish to transport or simply say where you want to go and the Transporter will transfer you and anyone holding your hand. Excellent for quick getaways. And finally, when transportation takes place, there is no loud noise, just a green flash of light and a quiet fffftttt .’
    â€˜Can it travel through time as well?’ Linden already saw himself in ancient Egypt or sailing on the Bounty .
    â€˜We need to do a few more checks before we try that, but we believe so.’
    â€˜And remember,’ Ben added seriously. ‘This has all happened because of you, but as important as you are, it’s time you were home in bed.’
    Max couldn’t imagine ever being tired enough to sleep again. They were standing next to the creators of one of the most important inventions in the world and they were part of making it happen.
    As they left the lab, a figure on the other side of the world sat before a radio transmitter as the fog of a northern hemisphere sunrise swirled outside. He was dressed in slippers and a dressing gown and sat at a large desk before an open fire. He had heard everything.
    â€˜Ben and Francis have brought me a little closer to becoming the most powerful man in the world and they don’t even know it. They may think they outsmarted me last time, but they haven’t even begun to know who they are dealing with.’

Max stood outside the training centre and stared at the doors.
    Linden could feel she was tense and tried to lighten her mood.
    â€˜They’re not going to come to you, you know.’
    â€˜I know,’ Max answered. ‘You may have noticed I haven’t done very well in there over the last few days.’
    Linden was quiet, fearful that speaking might be dangerous for his health.
    â€˜I’m going to change all that,’ Max said decisively.
    Linden waited. Alex hated them being late.
    â€˜Is it going to take long?’
    Max shot him a glare that made him feel he was standing in front of a firing squad.
    â€˜I mean, you take all the time you need.’
    After a few minutes Max was ready. ‘Let’s go,’ she said and strode through the doors