Ozymandias

"Ozymandias" by Ivar Jorgensen is a science fiction story where science and military clash on a forgotten world. On Planet Four, Dr. Leopold's team of archaeologists, along with Colonel Mattern's soldiers, explore the secrets of a dead alien civilization, the Thaiquens. They meet Ozymandias, an intelligent robot, who leads them through ancient ruins and shares the history of his creators. As the team discovers the Thaiquens’ powerful technology, questions arise about how this knowledge should be used, especially by the military. The story serves as a warning about the dangers of advanced technology and the high cost of progress.