Things to Come

In 1940, businessman John Cabal finds himself celebrating Christmas in Everytown, England. The atmosphere is tense as he and his friend Harding discuss the foreboding news of an impending war, while the optimistic Pippa Passworthy tries to maintain hope for the future.

That very evening, the festive mood is abruptly shattered by an unexpected aerial bombing raid. This attack marks the onset of a global conflict against an unnamed enemy, bringing a bitter end to the season of joy.

As the war intensifies, John Cabal bravely enlists as a Royal Air Force pilot. He distinguishes himself in combat, showcasing exceptional courage and skill in the skies.

In a remarkable act of valor, Cabal attempts to rescue an enemy pilot he has shot down. This act highlights his complexities as a fighter and the moral dilemmas faced in wartime.

As the war drags on into the 1960s, society descends into a dark age. The original causes of the conflict fade into obscurity as cities crumble, economies collapse, and technological advancements stall.

Amidst the chaos, a devastating plague known as 'wandering sickness' emerges, sending its victims into a zombie-like state. This pestilence claims countless lives and further ravages the populace, exacerbating the wartime suffering.

By 1970, Everytown falls under the ruthless control of a warlord known as Rudolf, or 'the Boss.' He consolidates power by executing those afflicted by the wandering sickness and effectively rules the remnants of the city.

The Boss initiates a brutal conflict against the 'hill people' of the Floss Valley, seeking essential resources to maintain his fleet of pre-war biplanes. This conflict further alienates factions in a war-torn landscape.

On May Day 1970, an impressive monoplane lands in Everytown, signaling a momentous return of aviation. John Cabal, now elderly, introduces the organization 'Wings Over the World' with the goal of revitalizing civilization and achieving peace.

When Cabal invites the Boss to join his noble cause, he meets immediate resistance as the Boss captures him. This situation highlights the desperate struggle for control between the ideals of progress and tyrannical rule.

With secret assistance from the Boss's discontented mechanic, Gordon, Cabal's Wings Over the World deploys aircraft that release a 'Gas of Peace' over Everytown. The populace is rendered unconscious, leading to a pivotal shift in power.

Upon awakening, the citizens of Everytown discover that the Boss has perished due to a fatal reaction to the gas. This event paves the way for Cabal to lead the city towards progress, free from the warlord's tyranny.

Under John Cabal's leadership, Everytown and society as a whole experience swift revitalization. Advances in science and technology flourish, marking a bright new era for civilization by the year 2036.

Despite the advancements, sculptor Theotocopulos incites unrest among the citizens. He calls for a halt in progress, especially with the impending first manned flight around the Moon, raising concerns over the risks of such endeavors.

As tensions rise, Oswald Cabal, John's grandson, must expedite the manned mission to the Moon. The team, including his daughter Catherine and scientist Maurice Passworthy, prepares to launch amidst the debates surrounding human advancement.