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gradual-revelation
Karellen outlines a plan to reveal the Overlords' true appearance to humanity only after fifty years, to avoid societal panic.
1 chapter across 1 book
Childhood’s End (1953)Arthur C. Clarke
Chapter 9
In this chapter, Stormgren, the Secretary-General, collaborates with Pierre Duval, the Chief of the Science Bureau, to investigate the nature of Karellen's vision-screen, suspecting it to be a psychological trick rather than a genuine TV system. They discuss the political implications of the Overlords' presence and the gradual revelation of their true form to humanity, with Karellen promising a full disclosure in fifty years. Stormgren resolves to continue probing the Overlords' secrets despite the Supervisor's assurances, reflecting his growing distrust and curiosity.