Mars

> "*Sing the song of the Machine World.*
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> *- Let None may stay our long march.*
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> *Let he merciful logic of the Machine World invest thee.*
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> *- Let None may stay our long march.*
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> *Praise and glory be to the Machine World.*
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> *- Let None may stay our long march.*"
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- Translation of the Binaric Static Chorus *Litany of His March*

**Mars**, the fourth planet in the Sol System, and its third largest terrestrial planet. But now only known as the "Rift Tether World," and the first and greatest of The Rift Networks Primary Rift-Conduits (PRCs) -- the "Data Core Principalis". It is located in the Sol System of the Proxima Solus, and is the heart of the colossal and antiquated archeotech telecommunications system of the Rift Network.

## History

Mars, once regarded as Terra's celestial sibling and humanity's cherished second home, embarked on an extraordinary odyssey of transformation during the pinnacle of the Golden Age of Technology. This cosmic metamorphosis was not the handiwork of nature but the brainchild of ingenious engineers, wielding the power of iron and glass. What transpired was nothing short of awe-inspiring – Mars evolved from a cradle for life into the cradle of data known as the Rift Network, a testament to humanity's unyielding progress and ambition.

The sheer magnitude of this audacious endeavor cannot be overstated. The architects of the Golden Age dared to dream on a cosmic scale, striving to construct an intergalactic communications hub capable of bridging the vast expanse of hundreds of light-years in every direction. Even the most visionary engineers of the era could scarcely fathom the enormity of this feat. Such a monumental undertaking demanded resources and power unparalleled in the annals of human history. At the epicenter of this grand vision lay the beating heart of the Rift Network, nestled deep within the cradle of humanity—the Solar System.

Mars, once known as the Red Planet, and its enigmatic moons, underwent a profound and irreversible transformation. This transformation was a relentless quest for technological advancement, a mission to harness the very essence of Mars to serve as the central repository of the awe-inspiring Rift Network. Within the frigid and desolate Martian expanse, the accumulation of human knowledge and the lifeline of interstellar communication discovered their new sanctum.

The Martian landscape, formerly marked by desolate dunes and rugged peaks, bore witness to an astonishing metamorphosis. Once-meandering dunes sculpted by the Martian winds were reforged into magnificent data caches, now housing information spanning galaxies. Mighty mountains, their ancient summits untouched for eons, were harnessed for the construction of towering spires, meticulously crafted from the finest glass and steel. These architectural marvels reached ever higher into the thin Martian atmosphere, a symbol of unyielding human ingenuity and aspiration.

Notably, the very core of Mars experienced a seismic transformation, not just once, but threefold. This audacious undertaking defied the limits of what was once thought possible. The remnants of the planet's original core were replaced by a labyrinthine network of forcefield generators, Data Minds, and gravity engines, all occupying the space where the core once resided.

Within this intricate technological heart, the planet's vital functions were no longer governed by natural processes but by the brilliance of humankind. The Data Minds operated as the cerebral cortex, tirelessly processing and disseminating vast quantities of information across the vast expanse of the Rift Network. Gravity engines assumed the core's role, expertly manipulating the planet's gravitational forces to suit the needs of this new era.

Yet, the monumental data processing within the heart of the Rift Network generated a staggering level of heat, necessitating an ingenious solution. Vast quantities of Uranus' frigid oceans were transported to Mars during its reconstruction. These icy waters filled sprawling subterranean networks, constantly recycling and flowing over the intricate components. These frigid reservoirs became the lifeblood of the machine world, tirelessly circulating and dissipating heat, thus ensuring the seamless operation of the network and preserving the invaluable data contained within. This fusion of advanced technology and nature's resources transformed the once-quiet Red Planet into a pulsating hub of knowledge, bridging the chasm between humanity's past and its boundless future among the stars.

In addition, Mars' newfound capabilities were fortified by a formidable energy shield defense system enveloping the entire planet. This shield stood as a monument to Mars' resilience, safeguarding against potential cosmic threats and protecting the monumental achievements of the Golden Age of Technology. In this brave new world, Mars transcended its status as a mere celestial body; it became an epitome of human innovation and determination, boldly redefining the boundaries of what was once deemed possible.