In the shadow of a world subjugated by the implacable grip of the Peace Authority, the fate of humanity teeters on the brink of a technological abyss. The Authority, wielding the enigmatic power of the "bobble," a sphere impenetrable by any force, has rendered itself invincible, encasing any threat within these unassailable bubbles, outside of time and space. Yet, in the quiet corners of this seemingly omnipotent regime, a spark of rebellion simmers. Paul Hoehler, the unassuming architect of the bobble's technology, emerges as the linchpin in a clandestine struggle for freedom. With the aid of a covert network of defiant scientists and a prodigious teenager, Paul embarks on a perilous mission to dismantle the Authority's dominion, igniting a battle that will determine the future of mankind. "Across Realtime" unfolds as a riveting odyssey through time and resistance, weaving a tapestry of courage, innovation, and unyielding aspiration. As Paul and his allies navigate the treacherous waters of subversion, they are confronted with the profound implications of their actions, challenging the very fabric of reality. Vernor Vinge crafts a narrative brimming with hard-science speculation, thrilling suspense, and the indomitable human spirit, securing his place as a luminary in the science fiction pantheon. This saga, encompassing "The Peace War" and its sequels, stands as a testament to the resilience of the human will, a beacon of hope in a world ensnared by the specter of an unbreakable tyranny.