GTC Gate Network
The GTC Gate Network is a proposed system of transportation gates currently under planning and development by the Giess Transportation Company (GTC) for implementation across Nouvelle Alexandrie. Announced in 1735 AN, the network is projected to be developed over the next two decades, with full operational status anticipated by 1755 AN. The proposed system aims to utilize advanced gate technology based on the novel element Alexandrium, theoretically allowing for near-instantaneous transport between connected points within Micras.
Conception
The concept of the GTC Gate Network emerged from a collaboration between GTC, Dingo Enterprises, and Javelin Industries in 1735 AN. This partnership successfully developed a prototype for intra-Micras gate technology, marking a significant potential advancement over GTC's historical interplanetary gates used during the Giess era.
Proposed Technology
The proposed GTC gates are planned to utilize a combination of Alexandrium-based energy fields and quantum entanglement to create stable wormholes between locations. Each gate would require a massive power supply and cooling system to maintain operational stability. While the exact mechanics of gate function remain theoretical, GTC has released preliminary information about proposed safety protocols and operational procedures.
Planned Network Expansion
According to GTC's proposal, the network would be developed in phases over a 20-year period. The current plan includes:
- 1740 AN-1745 AN: Construction and testing of the first 5 gates connecting major cities;
- 1745 AN-1750 AN: Expansion to connect all regional capitals;
- 1750 AN-1755 AN: Integration with major ports and industrial centers, reaching a total of 30 gates.
Potential Impact and Significance
If successfully implemented, the GTC Gate Network is expected to revolutionize transportation and logistics within Nouvelle Alexandrie. Economic projections suggest it could potentially boost national GDP by up to 15% upon full implementation. The network is also being considered for its significant military applications, potentially allowing for rapid deployment of forces across the country. Preliminary environmental impact assessments have been largely positive, as the gates are expected to reduce reliance on traditional, high-emission forms of transport. However, concerns remain about the long-term effects of Alexandrium use and potential spatial distortions around proposed gate sites.
Conspiracy Theories
The Icerian Gate Conspiracy
Despite the GTC Gate Network being in its planning stages, a conspiracy theory has already emerged surrounding the project. This theory involves an alleged secret gate dating back to the original Giess network, which conspiracy theorists claim is influencing the new network's development. According to this theory, GTC maintained a hidden gate that did not connect to Giess but to a third planet called Iceria. Proponents claim that this gate was built as part of a classified project codenamed "Operation Frostfire" during the late Alexandrian period.
Key points of the Icerian Gate theory include:
- Speculation about unusual energy readings at proposed gate sites, which conspiracy theorists attribute to tests involving the alleged Icerian gate;
- Claims of insider information about a highly classified "Gate Zero" blueprint within GTC's planning documents;
- Theories that the new network is being designed to be compatible with the supposed existing Icerian technology.
GTC has consistently denied these claims, dismissing them as baseless speculation. No credible evidence supports the existence of an Icerian gate or the planet Iceria itself. Nevertheless, the theory has gained traction in certain online communities and has inspired numerous works of speculative fiction.
Current Status
As of 1735 AN, the GTC Gate Network remains in the planning and early development stages. Environmental impact studies, feasibility assessments, and public consultations are ongoing. The New Alexandrian government is currently reviewing the proposal and considering the allocation of resources for this ambitious infrastructure project.
