“In order to usher in an era of peace and enlightenment, Neo-Buddhism must go beyond its ancestors to find the neutral point between action and apathy. We cannot avoid all pain and suffering. Rebirth arrives after death. Fire cleanses and makes room for new growth. We must not be afraid to destroy the temporary trappings of life in order to rise above them. As the Buddha said, ‘All component things in the world are changeable. They are not lasting. Work hard to gain your own salvation.’ If the people of Earth are unwilling or unable to make the effort, then it’s our duty—our dharma—to deliver enlightenment to them.”

Welga shrank the feed size in her visual and expanded a box with basic information about the monk. She scanned it as the speech continued. Ao Tara was currently the abbot of Eko-Yi, head of the station council. She had become an ordained monk in 2092 and joined the council in 2094, assuming leadership very recently, two days after the attack on Briella Jackson.

“For too long,” Ao Tara said, “the world has embraced Western dualistic thought. Black or white. Right or wrong. Animal or machine. Living or dead. An enlightened future demands a radical change from that attitude. We must shed the way of the past, cleanse our thoughts, and make room for the right tomorrows. Part of that is to grow our numbers, to seek out those who can embrace our way.

“In less than a week, we will welcome a new group of residents. We invite our applicants to submit their genomes in advance to help with our decision process. Certain genetic limitations could disqualify someone from life in microgravity due to the types of treatments required. We also seek specific markers, especially in those under the age of twenty-five, to participate in the development of new adaptations. We look forward to their arrival.” She pressed her palms together in front of her chest. “Om amitabha hrih.”

The feed faded to black. Welga cleared it and subvocalized, “Por Qué, send my original genetic information to the appropriate person on Eko-Yi.”

She could tell that Ao Tara’s words held a great deal of subtext, and she would need to learn what the Neo-Buddhists believed before she could parse it all. Basic research indicated that their philosophical split from other Buddhist sects allowed them a greater involvement in the affairs of the world. They believed that monks should detach themselves from base desires, like sex or food, but also that they should guide the world along the noble eightfold path. They allowed that monks could serve as political leaders without violating their place in dharma. They sound like priests, Welga thought.