Perhaps sensing the professor's interest, Little Gray gradually became more talkative. "My creators firmly believed that the wisdom of a collective could surpass the brute force of an individual. Even superhumans should be part of civilization. Everyone firmly believed that they were masters of this civilization, and masters of this universe. That was how the Golden Age, which lasted an entire epoch, came to be."
Professor Jinov chuckled. "Ha ha! At first, I was going to play devil's advocate. You know, based on what you just said, wouldn't the structures of ant colonies and beehives be the most perfect forms of civilizational evolution? But you've already answered that."
"Everyone has to be a master. That's what makes us human. It doesn't mean that everyone should be a cell. A civilization without people is meaningless." Little Gray laughed too, then changed the subject. "However, concepts like rule and domination initially existed to bring about order. They were also indispensable steps for civilization, but they weren't civilization's purpose. If they're allowed to exist for too long, they become a drain on resources, minds, and time. Any civilization, whatever its species, must leave the cradle if it wants to evolve."
Gray paused, her voice tinged with deeply human regret. "I'm sorry that the civilization of this era hasn't made it that far yet. I'm also glad that someone has started trying."
Professor Jinov fell into brief thought once more before speaking. "...Then what's the next step in the evolution of civilization? The great Enlighteners civilization that created—or, no, gave birth to—you. Where is it now?"
"That's forbidden knowledge." Gray giggled.
Professor Jinov mused, "I have a feeling you haven't said this sort of thing to anyone else."
"Is that the keen nose of a scientist? Ah ha ha ha! You're supposed to be