[Chicago – Germanian Consulate]
Tanya and Oskar were inspecting the consulate, noting that all damages had been repaired and the construction goals were only slightly behind schedule. "I know our men are workaholics but are we sure they are taking proper breaks and keeping within normal working hours?"
Oskar nodded. "They know the rules. Certainly the construction bosses won't let tired workers cause accidents from exhaustion."
There'll be no deaths by accident or karoshi on my watch! "Excellent! Overwork reduces productivity and burns out my human resources."
He smiled tiredly, having heard it before. The difference now, however, was that he truly believed it. Her ideas overturn common sense and yet she proves that HER sense is better by far. I assume it won't be long before Tanya's ideas replace the old ones. Didn't she mention something about this? "That reminds me, we were talking about how thoughts change and you said to remind you about that."
"Oh! Yes, it's quite the exciting idea. You are familiar with genes, of course? Well, ideas are like them but I call them memes. Much like genes, they spread and grow and mutate and compete. In general, successful memes will drive out unsuccessful ones. Every human interaction are based around ideas at their core." She drew his attention to a tree in the park. "You see that plant, but it's only a tree because of its genes. People are fooled by what they can see, the buildings and businesses and tanks and so on. But it's the memes that organize them that are essence. That's the reason why we've been been progression so easily. The ideas I've introduced are just better than the old ones so they are winning this fight." She grinned wickedly. "Survival of the fittest, right?"
"When you say it like that, you wonder why no one has thought of it before?"
"Oh, they have, they have. Just casually, though. People understand propaganda, motivational speeches, education, mythic stories, and so on." She shook her head. "Communists are stupid and their ideology is pure evil, but they understand one thing well: you need to grab the children, teach them what to believe and never let them encounter other ideas."
"Other memes," he said slowly.
"You can also think of them like creatures that live in your head. Some are useful and help the host. Others are parasitic and feed on you."
Rather horrified by the image, he asked, "Is that how you view communism?"
"Naturally! I have no desire to kill the communists. For the most part, they are just deluded dupes. I want to kill the memes that rule their lives, break down the system that seeks to overtake the world like locusts with no sense of morality or restraint."
What if the 'parasite' is set too deeply, I wonder? He was about ask but he already knew her answer. Sometimes surgery can kill the patient... and there's 150 million patients in the Russy Federation. God help them all!
"But that's a fight for another day, right now we need to focus on matters closer to home. How is our little loose cannon doing?"
Dragged out of his grim thoughts, he responded with more cheer. "Frankly, I'm shocked at how useful she's been now that she has more... direction. It's been hard to force her to take time off, according to reports."
"If she fights too much, tell her to take up a hobby. It's worked well for me!" She laughed a bit but realized it had been a couple of days since she had played the piano and made a mental note to practice a few pieces tonight.
She started humming Beast of Burden while they continued their tour.
* * *
[Chicago – Germanian consulate]
Meanwhile, the topic of their conversation was just getting off her work shift for the day. Technically, she didn't have a schedule as she was an unpaid volunteer but since she worked with these men, she kept the same hours they did and that was drawing to a close.
Her 'partner' in the construction-Stahl slapped her on the back, treating her like any other coworker. "Good job, Mary! At this rate, we'll be back on schedule and ready for the next phase."
"Next phase? What's that?"
He shrugged with a grin. "I have no idea. But there's always a next phase, right?"
She had to laugh at his foolishness. "Of course, you're right."
"Why not come have a drink with the gang? No matter what foolishness the Americans have come up with, we can enjoy ourselves."
"Thank you, but no, I'm grateful but I have things to do." The fact was that she really was grateful but really did have plans.
"Next time, you make time!" He waved as they left and she returned it almost shyly.
"Well, that's that. Time to go practice something a bit more exciting!"
As she made her way through the mini-town they called a Consulate, she thought about her just completed work. She realized immediately that she was just a glorified battery, with an honorary title of 'coworker' but she didn't mind. Her power helped make the massive construction machinery move and she was content to know she was doing her part. In time, she had even become a bit more active, controlling the movement of the vehicle while her partner handled the actual skilled labor that construction required.
By this time, most of the staff recognized he, even when not in her work clothes and waved, or smiled, or just nodded toward her if they were busy with other things. No one ignored her, though, and no one rejected her. She responded in kind but with a twinge of guilt. Can I say Degurechaff would get the same treatment in the Alliance? Or Albion? I think not!
She didn't bother thinking about the Russy Federation since they were monsters and degenerates.
Soon she came to the Trainingszentrum and took an industrial elevator downward. Quite invisible on the surface, there were multiple underground rooms used for research and training. Some of the room duplicated facilities in Germania whereas others were new or unused.
One of the lower levels was quite large. It was a long room with targets on one end and three large machines at the other. A lab-suited man holding a clipboard nodded as the elevator door opened. "Ah, Miss Sioux, thank you for your promptness."
"Certainly, doctor. How can I help?"
"First, just sit in one of the command chairs and I'll explain how this will work."
She peered around the the machines and saw there was a large metal chair attached to each but there were comfortable cushions on each. Both armrests of each had a brass and crystal hemisphere near the end. Mary picked the one in the middle and found it comfortable enough and her hands naturally rested on the hemispheres.
"So, you are likely curious as to the purpose of this machine, eh?" He chuckled amiably. He continued without waiting for a reply. "What you are sitting on is actually a magic orb."
"This?! It must weigh a thousand pounds!"
"Several tons, actually. Forgive a bit of deception but it's more than just an normal orb."
"I would hope so! Now, what is it for real?"
"Well, it IS an orb, primarily. But most of the functions have been, well, spread out so that each piece can be exchanged, measured and updated independently. There are half a dozen like this in Germania and they are the finest orb prototyping tools I know of. And, since Germania leads the world in orb technology, quite like the best anywhere."
"So these... blocks... are fully functioning orbs? Why doesn't the Unified States protest? Surely, this is against the terms of surrender."
"Technically, this is quite permissible. Combat orbs are quite a specialized thing and, chief among their traits is portability." He patted one of the 'orbs' and chuckled again. "No matter how clever these are, you can't carry one into combat!" He stopped laughing. "Also, we haven't bothered to tell our 'hosts' and this chamber is quite well shielded."
She understood his implications. "I see. You're quite clever, Doctor."
He shook his head. "I can't take credit. The entire program was the Colonel's idea, including this shielded chamber. Our speed of research has doubled, no, almost tripled."
Of course it was her. She thought she should feel irritated at how accomplished her former nemesis was but she found it... comforting?... somehow. "So what do I do?"
"Just activate the orb like you normally would and we'll go through a variety of spells and measure what happens, eh?" He retrieved a pen and readied his clipboard. "Well, let us begin!"
He had her run through a common set of spells (excepting flight ones, of course).
At first she thought the test were rather basic but she found it much harder than she remembered. Even the simplest spells came only haltingly and her signature energy beam was impossible to produce. "Doctor, does this thing have some weird settings now? Everything is so hard."
"No. Actually, I have it set to mimic what the Unified States is currently using for their elite units."
"Something unusual is going on." And I know just who to ask!
* * *
[Berun – High Command]
Rerugen sat opposite Zettour as he gave the latest activity report. It was a very high level meeting as Zettour was more interested in general outlines rather than the minutiae that his accountants and auditors thrived on.
"The rehabilitation plan for the army is proceeding well, I hear." Zettour did more than 'hear'
"Yes sir. We are using the 'right sizing' strategy by focusing on a smaller number of elite troops, both mage and non-mage. We are well within the decommissioning demands of the surrender agreement but our actual strength is higher than at the beginning of the Great War. Between greater expertise, better equipment, and better logistics, I can confidently state that the Empire is at least as secure as a decade ago."
Zettour nodded, obviously pleased. "And for the future?" Plan for the next war, not the last war. What wise words!
"Even the most conservative estimates show us having a clear advantage compared to any of our neighbors, even two at once. At this pace, we'll hold an overwhelming advantage in much less than twenty years."
"Excellent. Make sure that the political class doesn't hear about this. Their foolishness might make them think we can fight our way out of these reparations."
"Of course. We only give them the overall troop numbers which makes us look a lot weaker than we are." He moved on to the next topic. "The Eternal-class submarines are functioning well and all the old torpedoes have been replaced with ones that actually work," he said dryly. "TvD has been delivering very interesting orbs to our non-combat troops. According to our research team, and some coded documents from Argent herself, their engineers can modify them to full combat capabilities with just an hour or work per orb. The Uberstahl program is likewise proceeding apace. Live combat data was quite interesting and you should definitely look at the videos from the Chicago fight."
"In time, in time. I find the analyses of skilled men to be nearly as good as being an eyewitness and takes less time. The trick is finding those skilled men! So that covers the men and their equipment. How about logistics?"
"The Selene rail line extended from border to border... and beyond. Nearly every country in Europa is also connected. The shipping container system is likewise in full use. Ugar is quietly ecstatic at how efficient things have become for him. More to the point during peacetime, Germania is quickly becoming the hub for transport as all rails lead to Berun."
"Are not other countries tempted to create their own inter-country rail systems?"
"Most of them have found simply using our rails to be more efficient although they are still using their older, less-efficient lines for trade that doesn't go through Germania. The amount of traffic on those lines has dropped by 30% and shows further losses. It's simply quicker and cheaper to use our lines, especially with our universal use of shipping containers."
Zettour suddenly laughed! "Ah, this is what she was referring to... and so quickly!"
"Sir?"
"Degurechaff was referencing a Akitsushiman general. 'It is best to win without fighting.' She also posited her own theory that true democracies with significant financial ties will not war with each other. Attacking us will be equivalent to attacking their own interests. As the ties grow stronger, ah yes, we will not be Germania. We will be Europa."
Rerugen recalled her farewell speech upon leaving for America when she claimed the Fatherland would become the heart of Europa. If even Zettour agrees, then it must be true. But there's a piece I'm missing... what's her final goal? He felt his receded ulcer remind him that it wasn't totally gone... the twinge of pain was like a harbinger of things to come.
* * *
[Berun]
General Ugar reflected that far from the 20-hour days he pulled during the War, these days his life was peaceful... even relaxing. The switchover to the new shipping methods had been pleasant work overall. Even beyond the ideas Tanya had presented in her concept paper, he had started rebuilding army depots and military bases so that the entire army supply system functioned like one smooth machine for the entire country.
Some days, he even worked from home as his 'work' these days was conceptual and didn't require his presence at the office. Regardless, with his level of importance, they had had a phone installed in his home for quite some time. However, he had promised dire retribution if anyone used it unnecessarily on his days off!
The most troubling issue he's had recently, in fact, was Argent's birthday present. In addition to her official position, which mandated a gift of a certain size, she also had a personal connection to most of the command staff, Ugar included. He brooded as he looked out his study window.
His wife, Amaryllis, came into the room with a carafe of coffee and an afternoon snack on a tray. She "Dear, you look so troubled. What could be causing you to worry so?" She was a delicate-looking woman with a core of steel. When they thought he would be going to battle, she had supported him even though they had just had their first child. Still, she had given many thanks to God when he chose a position behind the lines.
Certainly, the two additional children she had during the war and the one afterward was ample sign of her appreciation!
"It's the gift for Degurechaff, Love. What do you get for someone who has everything?"
She tapped her chin with one finger, a thoughtful and troubled expression on her face. "Yes, I can see why that would be a problem. Her presents are the highlight every Christmas. The kids view her as a blonde, female Weihnachtsmann!" Her husband had made no secret that it was Tanya who had convinced him to go into the Logistics department and therefore Amaryllis viewed her at least as a close family friend if not a literal savior. "Let's start with the basics... what does she like?"
He rubbed his head. "Well, military things... at least to some degree."
"So perhaps books on strategy or souvenirs of some sort?"
"Mind you, 'to some degree'. Since she's left the army, I've hardly her speak of such things other than her support for veterans and her continued assistance to high command in restructuring the military." Remembering that they were supposed to be brainstorming, he switched to a new ides. "Luxury goods like coffee, chocolate, fine wines and fine dining. There were the only thing I ever saw her spend her money on."
His wife looked surprised. "No clothing or jewelry or the like?"
He shook his head firmly. "Never. If not for her long hair and face, I would have thought she was just a very short man or a boy. My sources say that she only consenting to wearing dresses on the way back from Francois because none of her uniforms fit any longer!"
"So difficult. Designer goods or expensive jewelry would be appropriate for either her role or her personal relationships. And consumables would not be entirely appropriate for an Ambassador."
"True, true. And, music of course." He immediately attacked his own idea. "How do you give music? She makes her own!"
Amaryllis said slowly, "No, no. I think you are onto something here. She makes her own music, but not music instruments, correct?"
"That's true... that would work on a personal level. But what of Tanya the Ambassador?"
"Oh, you foolish man!" She smiled gently and clarified. "The Ambassador is the embodiment of the state that sent her. So gifts should generally be grand and somewhat impractical. And I think you have another issue in Arene and this could resolve both issues, no?"
"Arene... why, yes. Yes it will!" He pulled his pretty wife onto his lap. "I think this deserves a reward!"
She rolled her eyes but didn't resist. "Who exactly is getting rewarded here?" she said with a blush and a smile.
Nine months later, Tanya added another kleine to her Christmas list!
* * *
[Akitsukai – the sea west of Akitsushima]
Far, far to the East, the Emperor of Akitsushima was resting in his luxurious yacht floating on the Akitsukai between his country and Qin. To call it a yacht wasn't doing it proper credit however. It was more a floating palace of grand size and boundless opulence. The location was no accident... he often came her to look across the water at the continent beyond.
The room he was in was almost spartan. It was wide with a tatami floor and hand-hewn wooden beams. The walls, excepting the one that was open to the sea, had Shinto nobori as well as bustuji-gake with sayings to help promote spiritual growth and enlightenment.
His servants, mindful of the protocols due to his divine presence, were silent as he gazed across the water, but further away from their master, they spoke more freely. "He often looks at distant Qin. Do you think He dreams of conquest?"
This was a popular opinion. Akistushima was growing rapidly in power and influence and only lacked a steady supply of resources to fuel their economy. The high advisors made it clear that the lack of metal, oil and other necessities for a modern economy, would always hinder them. They could build the mightiest war machine but it would always stumble when faced with that reality.
"Perhaps, but he is not his father. The hawks are frustrated but also those who sue for greater amity and trade." The head servant nodded sagely. "He seems to walk a narrow path that only he can see so is frustration not normal?"
While they whispered far from the subject of their conversation, Emperor Hirohito sipped his tea and thought. The things I have to do to get away from those damned politicians!
Chapter 107 - The Opposite of Hate
Chapter Text
[Chicago – Germanian Consulate]
Tanya watched Mary go through the standard exercises in the testing chamber. The reports are quite correct, her power output and even her ability to aim aren't even a fraction of what they once were.
"You see?" Mary looked frustrated and almost forlorn.
Tanya, perhaps sensing something, dismissed the researchers. "Okay, talk."
"You saw for yourself! I'm useless even with a full orb!" Her voice lowered to a near whisper. "Was it that thing all along? Was none of it actually me?"
"Hmmm, lean closer." When Sioux did so, Tanya flicked her forehead sharply.
More from shock than pain, Mary yelped. "Ow! What was that for?!"
"Because you're not my subordinate, I can't beat any sense into you." Tanya sighed. "The dybbuk, from my experience, can only actualize what you are already capable of doing. It's a shortcut disguised as a boon. Now that it's gone, you have to learn how to do it the right way. Why not view it as an target for what you might become?"
"Couldn't I try to, umm, copy how I did things before? Learn to work that way, but under my control this time?"
"Don't even think about it! That, that thing leaves traps in every gift. It will reshape how you think and tear away your free will! Do it too long and you'll become a hymn-spouting puppet with no chance of escape because all your chains will be inside your own head... no rider necessary!" She clenched her hands as if they were around a rifle, itching for a chance to blow off Being X's head.
Remembering what she had escaped, she shuddered.
"At any rate, that means everything you did then, you can do eventually. Perhaps even better because you can use your full brain and perhaps find a more efficient way, or more clever at least."
Feeling daring, Mary asked, "How many times did you... fall under control?" She's the greatest combat mage of our age. Was this the key to it all?
"There was some memory loss involved but somewhere around twenty times." I hope it was only that! Damn you Being X! "I tried very, very hard to keep my mind free of influence because you never know when it might the last time until it has complete domination over you."
ONLY twenty times?! That means, almost always, it was just her and her skill! In the past, Mary might have gotten jealous but she had given up on comparing herself with Degurechaff. Her generosity and forgiving nature had had a profound impact on the American mage. It is said that the opposite of hatred isn't love, it's indifference.
She no longer hated Tanya. Not at all.
"Let's run through the exercises again, hmm? I'll give pointers and that might help you regain some of your ability." She smiled warmly but there was a gleam in the ex-Colonel's eyes. "I have a bit of a reputation as an instructor."
Mary, never having heard the rumors that were commonplace in the Germanian military, nodded trustingly. "Please!"
* * *
[Somewhere...]
The man in the chair scowled as the last of their number arrived, out of breath. The newcomer glanced outside from where he just came from and then shut the door hurriedly. The basement they were all in was unfurnished except for a table, a half dozen chairs and a decanter of water with some glasses nearby. A single bulb on a wire provided scant light as it swayed slightly in the breeze of the man's entry.
"I realize that maintaining a clandestine, international organization is a tricky matter, but being over an hour late is beyond the pale, don't you think?" said the scowling man. All six were non-descript, deliberately so. Both men and women wore hats that could easily disguise their features if it were darker or at night.
"Sorry, but I thought someone was following me. You know how good Her people are and I can't be too careful." He dropped in a chair and grabbed a cup of water and drank it quickly.
One of the two women seemed startled. "Her people? Did you get close to them?"
"Better than close!" he said smugly. "I managed to pull a few passive-mode images and verify some of the rumors."
The scowling man suddenly smiled, apparently forgiving the transgression of tardiness with the news. "Tell us more."
He leaned back in the chair. "Well, M is definitely with Her. Everyone seems fine and there wasn't any issues I could detect. It was very odd to see, let me tell you! I've confirmed M is working for Her now and might be deployed soon."
" " "Deployed?!" " " said three people at once.
"You heard what I said. You know how She is. Good at finding talent. Training them. Bringing out their best."
"Do you have proof or is this just more idle speculation?"
"I knew you'd say that! You can read lips, right Number Fourteen?"
She nodded. "Passably. Anglish?" She wore outlandish makeup, ruining the purpose of making her blend into the crowd. Still she was reliable. Mostly.
"Yes." He pulled out a computation orb designed for covert work. It looked like cigarette case (and in fact WAS a cigarette case), but was astonishingly well shielded and had very limited features. He triggered the projection features and an image quickly came into view. Although taken from a distance, it was a very clear shot of two women at an outdoor cafe, sitting a table with snacks and coffees.
"Sometimes their mouths are occluded by passers-by or their refreshments, but you can make out the gist of their conversation."
The woman focused on their images as he started the video. "...training routine... ...performance goals... ...something about their food. Say can we get desserts later?"
"Focus!"
"Fiiiiiine. …organize a... ...practice... and something about an instrument of... I can't make out the rest."
"Numbers One and Two said this might happen. Her goals are too large for just one person and it would just be a matter of time before She recruits others." said a man that had been silent until that point.
"How far will She go, though?"
Another snorted. "You sound like you there's some sort of limit? After conquering one country, you just move on to the rest. Why would She stop before she has the whole world at Her feet?"
"True, with the help of Her new recruits, She might make a push at any time."
The man who was the leader finally stopped the conversation with a sharp clap of his hands. "Enough! Send the video to our other members via the usual channels but tell them it's coming with coded telegrams first." He smiled at the others. "Finally, the midwest branch of the Tanya von Degurechaff Appreciation Society has some real news to share!"
* * *
Across the world, whispered discussions revolved around Degurechaff's Disciple... when would the new star be born?
* * *
[Chicago – Embassy broadcasting station]
Lucie moved the microphone closer to her mouth using the extending arm. "Thank you for listening to WIND with us today! That was Paul Whiteman and his wonderful version of 'All of Me' with Mildred Bailey. The next hour has been sponsored by Commonwealth Edison. They keep the lights on in our studios and they can keep you warm and cozy in your home, too. This song is the latest from our favorite mage, Tanya von Degurechaff! Like I promised, you'll get one new song from Argent every day this month. 'What time of day?' I hear you cry. You just have to keep listening to find out! Now on to 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' where she is accompanied by Jason Hessen whom you might recall was one of the singers from her 'Ode to Joy' concert."
She nodded to her assistant who started the magi-record. He fed trivial amounts of mana into the device but spent more of his time examining the woman. Immediately the sounds of the recording were captured, amplified and broadcast all over Chicago. Even those with tin ears could tell the difference in quality
(Turn around)
Every now and then I get a little bit lonely
And you're never coming 'round
(Turn around)
Every now and then I get a little bit tired
Of listening to the sound of my tears
He glanced to make sure the microphone was off and said, "You seem so experienced at this. Surely you must have done this in Europa as well."
"No, just a maid, I'm afraid." She could switch between her normal voice which had a trace of a Francois accent and her 'radio' voice which she used on the air.
"Not 'just' a maid! I think I've learned more about radio broadcasting in a week than I did for the last three years."
She shook her head. "The format was set by the Ambassador."
"Format?"
"Yes, how everything is done. It's not just playing music and reading the ads. Each DJ is expected to have a personality and make connections with the audience."
"Oh, like an actor!"
"Yes, but more than that. When the advertisements are read, how they are presented, when to play which songs and so on. Different times of day have different DJs as they have different audiences. We only have one station for now, but the type of music is part of the format. Right now, we are half-Tanya, half popular music."
"So is that the reason why you doling out the Ambassador's new songs? That seemed odd to me."
"It's the plan she came up with. To hear her new songs, the only source is our station for now. So they will want to leave their radio on all the time. At home, at work, wherever they are. Then it become a matter of lifestyle to listen to our broadcast."
And I need you now tonight
And I need you more than ever
And if you only hold me tight
We'll be holding on forever
Lucie gestured eloquently. "Not only for our advertisers, but people will get used to listening to our point of view. It's hard to block the truth when you hear it every day!" She looked upset. "The things they used to say about her... très horrible! But once they learned what a wonderful person she in reality, then there were no problems!" She snapped her fingers as if to indicate how quickly the change occurred.
"How clever! But her reputation was never so bad here in the Unified States."
"Well, no, but there are other places. Also, it helps us earn some money." She laughed a little. "After a time, we will sell phonographs and even magical recordings though at a much higher price, of course."
He nodded. "Even a limited magic music orb is quite expensive. I must admit that one of the reasons I took this job was the profound discount radio employees receive on the purchase of music." He shook his head. "It's a difficult hobby for a poor man and if I can turn my passion into a paycheck, that is perfect, is it not?"
The maid nodded. "It's for that reason we want you to be the evening DJ. 10PM to 4AM isn't the easiest shift, but you'll have a lot more freedom. Use it! Remember, the idea is to make a relationship with your audience. In fact, we're going to try something new with you... call in requests for songs!"
He looked surprised by the revelation for just a second and then smiled. "It will be a challenge, but I'm ready for it." He paused. "But one thing puzzles me... what does DJ stand for?"
Lucie shrugged. "It's a mystery... that's just what von Degurechaff has always called it."
Once upon a time there was light in my life
But now there's only love in the dark
Nothing I can say
A total eclipse of the heart!
* * *
[East of Chicago – on the railway]
Junior was tempted to curse out loud. He resisted the urge without difficulty as they last time he taken the name of the Lord in vain, his father had reasoned with him for half an hour about his misdeed. His father and his father's belt, that is!
Truly, his father was a instructor of legendary efficacy.
What tempted him to sin currently were the delays in the schedule. The closer they got to Chicago, the worse it got. Stolen supplies, sabotaged tracks, even harassment of the workers: all of these were taking their toll on their carefully planned deadlines. Once he had been shown how the Gantt chart worked, he could see the tasks in his mind just like the tracks of the rails their were laying. Each piece leading to the next until they reached their destination.
But now there was something on the tracks... literally! He scowled at the vehicle in their way. The driver was arguing that it, and its load of hogs, couldn't move.
The driver was yelling at one of the workers. "Look, now! If we move the truck, it might get more damaged and then my pigs will starve or get loose and then I'm out a whole lot of money. Are you going to pay for that?!"
The worker was beyond annoyed. "Why'd you try to cross here anyway?! There's a crossing just half a mile away ON the road with no way of getting stuck!"
"I've always crossed here and I will always cross here. Get me?"
Junior walked up and, mustering all his patience, said, "There a problem here?"
The driver looked at him, snorted, and sneered. "Stay out of this, boy. This ain't none of your business."
Okay, patience gone.
"Actually it is. This piece of land is private property and you are trespassing, sir."
"Don't give me that bullshi..."
Junior raised his voice to an impressive volume. "And it is also owned by the consulate, so you are actually on foreign land. That means, when we do THIS..." He flexed his muscles and the orb he had gotten recently came on line, enhancing his strength. With barely any effort, he sent the truck loaded with squealing pigs careening into a field of sorghum. "It's just deporting you." He got so close to the man that their shirts touched. He was a good eight inches taller and looked down on him with eyes still glowing from the use of magic. "You got any problems with that? SIR?"
The driver, suddenly realizing that he had no cards to play, too off after his truck.
The worker looked at his back. "Jumpin' Jesus, Junior. That guy was stubborn."
He shook his head. "No, he's working for the guys blocking us. You see his boots? No pig farmer has shoes that aren't covered with shit up to his calves. He won't complain or call the cops but his group ain't gonna stop either."
"Well, you settled his hash!" The man laughed out loud as the 'farmer' was trying to figure out what to do with his truck now that it was in a field and not blocking the track.
"For now. 'Minds me. I'm gonna go on ahead to talk to the boss."
"Yvette? She in New York now, right?"
"Not her. The big boss in Chicago. Hold down the fort and keep the steel moving. I'm going to talk to Miss Degurechaff!"
Chapter 108 - Be Good
[Chicago – Consulate]
The group assembled in Tanya's office could not be more unalike and they were all awkwardly sitting around a table filled with bite-sized pastries and fresh cups of coffee or tea as matched their individual tastes.
John Henry (aka Junior) was literally in his Sunday best as he didn't really have any other 'nice' clothes. Even these were ill-fitting, though. Not that they had been purchased improperly, but because he had grown larger in the past few months. He had been engaged in special training to hone his magical talent but it seems his effeorts had gone to his muscles rather than his abilities as a mage. Even the oversized chair seemed small under him and his hand dwarfed the large coffee cup.
Mary Sioux was at least in a properly-fitting dress but seemed like the soul had been drained from her. There were bags under her eyes and she seemed disconnected from what was happening around her. She had mechanically filled her plate with treats but hadn't eaten any as if she had forgotten how to. Her blank stare was a bit disturbing and didn't encourage conversation.
Joe and Jerry were also in their church clothes but, on them, they actually fit well. Between the big man and the distracted ex-soldier, the two young teens were even more uncomfortable. Beyond a greeting from Junior, neither of the others had spoken. Finally, unable to resist, Joe took a cookie at the urging of the maid who stood to one side. His eyes widened as he ate it and then he grabbed another without thinking. Jeez! he thought before realizing he said it out loud as well.
Jerry looked over, "Is it that good?" His answer was Joe grabbing a third cookie and stuffing it in his mouth. Seeing the stack of treats shrinking, he started eating as well. He barely slowed and glanced at the maid who merely smiled and nodded. "Wow. It's so buttery and moist! Is that lemon and mint? What's that cream!?"
"These ones with raspberry jam and sugar are even better!"
A voice came from the door that none noticed had opened, "You should try the chocolate ones... those are my favorite."
All eyes who turned toward Tanya who walked into the room in grand fashion. She was dressed as befitted an ambassador, with a male-style uniform and half-cape. Junior rose politely but not faster than Mary who shouted, "Ma'am, yes ma'am!" and then sat down to eat one of the chocolate-creme filled canollis.
"I'm sorry for being late. Sometimes the duties of Ambassador require my actual presence rather than just that of my assistant." She shook her head. "I suppose I should complain that diplomats like to talk so much, rather than fight, but this time the meeting could have been hours shorter with less blather and more bullets!"
The maid covered her mouth to stifle a laugh but the others were too intimidated to see the humor of the comment. Regardless, Degurechaff took the last seat and picked up her coffee cup with a gloved hand, sipping it and then putting it down with a small smile. "So as not to be hypocritical, I'll make the introductions and explain why you are here without wasting any more time."
She nodded to each as she spoke. "Mr. Henry is one of my workers on the railroad and potentially one of the strongest mages in the physical sense I have ever seen. Miss Sioux is rather his opposite in that her magical abilities are nearly unparalleled. Both need a lot of training but I have great expectations from them." She turned toward the teens, "But you two, Mr. Siegel and Mr. Shuster are going to be the key to my new endeavor."
The boys looked at each other and Joe spoke. "We appreciate the invitation and the trip to Chicago but isn't this a little too much for just a comic book?"
Joe nodded. "It was a good yarn, for sure. But not that good!"
Tanya shook her head. "Don't underestimate yourselves, young men. Stories are how cultures define themselves, even if they don't realize it. One fights bad ideas with good ones... in fact, good stories can keep bad ones from taking root."
She touched the cover of the "Adventures of Argent" that was on the table. "This is a good start but let's have several different comics come out for now. I'll put you on a salary immediately so you can get started. I want you to continue this and also others, 'Man of Steel' and 'The Shadow'."
Jerry said, "Those sound interesting!"
"You will even have living templates to work from. Now, the fictional characters won't be exactly the same as the real people but close enough. The Man of Steel, Superman, was an orphan rocketed from a dying alien planet. The Shadow is a figure that works to put fear in criminals and delivering justice behind the scenes." I wanted to use Batman, but Batwoman just doesn't sound as good and Batgirl is not exactly scary. The Shadow is close enough. "I have more details about the characters but we can go into that later."
"I'm sure we can work with what you have but... why do you need real people to be the comic characters?"
"There's a synergy between the two that will increase comic sales." The word confused everyone but Jerry who nodded, understanding. "But it works the other way, too. As people read the comic, they will become used to people with 'powers' working for the greater good. But not just getting used to it, I want the idea that those with great power have great responsibility."
"Wow, what a cool idea! I bet you could make a great comic around it!" said Joe.
"Focus boys, focus. As mages become more common, the idea that they will be walking around with everyone else will cause people to be frightened. Reasonably so! A combat mage with an orb, even without a weapon, can destroy an entire city block without much effort. It's like having a tank wandering around the streets unimpeded."
Junior spoke slowly. "Yeah, I think I know what you mean. Just being big and strong as me causes people to back off like I would suddenly attack them."
"Exactly! It'll be worse for mages, I fear. Either they will be severely restricted to the point of near-imprisonment or maybe..." she drew her thumb across her throat.
Mary, shocked out of her stupor, frowned. "They wouldn't do that!" She continued less certainly. "Would they?"
"Don't underestimate the power of fear, or hatred, or even jealousy." Tanya suddenly smiled and clapped her hands together once. "But that's what we are going to prevent, eh? While there are bad people, and even bad mages, we are going to get everyone used to the idea that they shouldn't fear 'superheroes' and, in fact, they absolutely need us!"
With that revelation, the others could relax and enjoy the treats in front of them. They were all thinking pretty much the same thing: She's working so hard so that she and other mages can continue to help people without fear. How noble!
Meanwhile, she was thinking, More money and maybe change the laws so I can carry an orb openly, win win! In her deepest soul, though, there was a part of her that wanted new manga to read... not that she would ever admit that, even to herself.
* * *
[Atlantic Ocean]
The large ship was moving slowly across the open water but no one was unhappy about it as that was according to plan. The captain drank a strong cup of coffee... a vice he couldn't indulge on either a smaller ship or in worse weather, so he enjoyed it while he could. He kept a tight ship and he also liked his working area clean. The past week had been good for work and for coffee, so he was well pleased.
Standing near him was a woman who was a co-leader, of sorts. At sea, he was the absolute commander, of course, but she was in charge of their mission so he treated her as an equal, as odd as it seemed to him. "How goes the deployment, Ms. Marsten?"
"Excellently, Captain. In fact, because we have extensive mage support, both above and below the surface, I want to gradually increase our speed."
"Eh?" He almost spilled his coffee... something that he hadn't done for a double-dozen years at sea. "I thought our mandate was success over speed?"
"True, and I fully agree with that. But everyone grossly underestimated how many efficiencies would come into play with those mages, it's been rather shocking I must admit." She was an engineer and not a mage but was getting used to having them available very quickly. "They can scan the seafloor, move the reels, even weld the ends nearly as fast as we can switch them out."
"Well, you're in charge of that end of things. We can certainly go much faster than we are going now. It IS slightly frustrating to move at a snail's pace. It's relaxing even if a little boring!" He chuckled good-naturedly. "We are pulling just 2 knots now. Do you want to up it by 10 percent? Maybe 20?"
She pursed her lips and said, "How about 600% faster? That's full speed, right?"
A twenty-five year record came to an ignominious end then!
* * *
[Chicago - Consulate]
Satisfied with the results of her morning meeting, she had given each of them tasks to complete before their next meeting. "We'll meet back here in two days and I'll supervise the progress." She nodded toward the boys. "Don't look so stressed! I'm not asking for you to be creative on a strict schedule. If you don't have a plot idea in mind for the next issue, just brainstorm with each other, or ask me for ideas."
Jerry asked, "You have ideas? Really?" He suddenly realized how that sounded. "I-I mean, of course you have ideas! I'm sure they are great!"
Tanya smiled. "I've been known for my creative thoughts in the past. Shocking ones, even! But, as it turns out, I do have plots for The Shadow and the Man of Steel. Just rough ideas, really." She pulled two fairly sizable stacks of paper from her desk and gave them to the teens. "I'd rather you work on 'Argent' yourselves, though as it would seem a bit self-serving if I plot that one!"
Joe nodded and then said, "What if we get your powers wrong, though?"
"Don't worry about that. Creative liberties are a benefit of being the one who makes art." Besides, my true range of powers are still a state secret so if they get things wrong, that can be useful as well.
"Mr. Henry, please visit the artificers for fitting."
"Yes, Ma'am. And you can jes call me Junior like everyone else, Ma'am."
"I'll call you that after you come out and drink with me and the men! Until then, at least in the office, things will remain the same." She playfully punched him in the shoulder thinking that she had encountered rocks that weren't as solid. Steel, indeed!
He grinned. "Yes, Boss. I look forward to it!"
Tanya shooed everyone out but Mary who was still sitting with back straight while seated. "At ease, Sioux."
The woman visibly relaxed. "Woooo."
Tanya sat back down and sipped her coffee. "Self control is hard, no?"
She nodded! "I think it's a little easier, now."
"There are few things that separate children from adults more than discipline. Not age, height, or even wealth, just being able to master oneself." She shook her head. "When I see citizens old enough to have grandchildren acting LIKE grandchildren, it's enough to make one week for the Republic!"
Mary blushed realizing that she had been among the ill-manner not too long ago but she resolved to work harder at it. "Why did you want to meet? Not more... training?"
"No, we've had enough for now. Frankly, I don't have the time to do a proper job but the foundation I've given you should last. Right?"
"Yes, Ma'am!"
"Good! No, today, I want to tell you your character."
"Character?"
"You are going to be The Shadow... a person who roots out evil-doers that think they are above the law."
"So, I'll be talking to people like Powered Rangers? I want to help but I don't really..."
"No, no. I want you to REALLY be The Shadow." She frowned. "We're getting increasing interference by criminals... mostly hired thugs."
"Some people said there were gangs in Chicago that are pretty vicious."
Tanya waved away that issue. "Don't worry about them; they've been dealt with." She suddenly grinned, sending a shiver down Mary's back as she imagined how Tanya had dealt with them. "No, these people are worse in ways. Criminals, no matter how seemingly aboveboard, are vulnerable as they ARE engaged in crime. They work in the noisome back alleys and under rocks with the rest of the vermin. You can beat them and do things more extreme and they can't just run to the police for help."
Things. More. Extreme! Oddly enough, what she imagined wasn't far from the truth! But, no, Degurechaff wouldn't just randomly torture and mutilate people.
"I'm going to have Mr. Henry deal with the problems in the light, while you handle the ones in the dark. Rather than criminals, the harder foe are the 'respectable' people who are trying to stop my plans. They have influence, wealth and public veneer of honesty that makes them much harder to confront. No, you won't have any public appearances. No, you are going to only have very special shows for carefully selected audiences." She stood up and ran a hand over a piece of statuary that they had chosen just because the consulate had seemed rather empty. "These people think they are unassailable and no matter what they do, they'll escape all consequences. Now what will they think if someone who can find all their secrets, isn't stopped by locks or guards, and can't be attacked by the courts suddenly appears?"
"Fear. Enough to drive one crazy."
"Oh, you catch on quickly! And it will happen night, after night, after night. Their vaults will be laid open, their allies will be taken away and even their most intimate moments will be captured and be shared for all to see. Realize that the essence of the Shadow is that it is always behind you and can never be escaped. After you are done with them, they should beg for the police to drag them off." She smirked, "Although a random heart attack or panic-stricken flight would be acceptable!"
Both women laughed at the obvious joke!
As the meeting was over, Felite entered with a wheeled cart that had several boxes on it. "A delivery from Berlin, Miss Ambassador!"
"Oh? I wonder..." She unboxed the crates using a bit of magic as she didn't have a crowbar available. Carefully packed inside the larger, squarish box was a device of some sort that had a cable. The other, longer box was filled with cellucotton and burlap rather than the more common straw typically used for odd-shaped items. She removed a black leather sheathed case.
"Is that a guitar?" Both Felite and Mary looked on with surprise at how carefully the case had been packed. "That must be an antique of some sort."
Mary pointed at the heavy-looking box. "And what's that thing?"
"This, this is it!" She opened the case and pulled out a red and white guitar, one unlike any other on the planet. "What you are witnessing is the delivery of the world's first electric guitar."
"Electric?" said Felite.
"Guitar?" said Mary.
She plugged the amplifier into the guitar and the other women were confused at the complexity of what should have been, essentially, a simple device.
"What to play... hmmmm..." She thought while tuning the guitar.I don't know many pieces by heart. I haven't even picked up an acoustic guitar since I was riding on Le Train De Tanya. Well, there's one that's particularly appropriate!
The others were confused by the sounds it made. Mary frowned slightly. "That doesn't sound like a guitar. It's odd."
Felite nodded but countered, "It sounds rather I nice, though!"
Tanya played a strong A chord, silencing conversation and then dived into a rollicking song immediately!
Deep down in Louisiana close to New Orleans
Way back up in the woods among the evergreens
There stood a log cabin made of earth and wood
Where lived a country boy named Johnny B Goode!
Chapter 109 - Is it getting crowded in here?
[Chicago consulate]
Tanya rubbed her fingers ruefully after her solo performance. The callouses from military training, piano practice or even paperwork were very different from what was needed to play the guitar. I have to say, they did a phenomenal job! I need to find someone who can really play this, though. It'd be wasted in my hands.
"Well, they can have the second one... this baby is mine!"
She put it back in the padded case and snapped it shut firmly. "Now that this is invented, that opens up so many possibilities. Less than ten percent of my repertoire doesn't involve some sort of electric instrument. No matter what else happens, now I have a secure line of income that doesn't depend on interrupting the breathing of violent strangers!"
Even in her own mind, she didn't admit that she just wanted to hear more of her favorite songs.
Oskar came in then and glanced at the case. "Ah, your new toy has arrived?"
"That, my dear Prince, is a work of art! Please have the proper level of respect." She patted the case. "You are right in a way, though. I need to find real guitarists to bring out the full potential of the instrument. The best I can do is point the way for them."
"I believe Chicago has a vibrant music community. Why not tap into that?"
I should have thought of that, myself. Chicago was one of the birthplaces of Rock and Roll in my old world. "That is an excellent idea! Find a good venue or two and we'll recruit a few talented fellows. Any real musician would be able to see the potential here."
"And if they don't?"
"Then we must assume they aren't 'real' musicians, of course."
The man chuckled at that. "Saturday night should be good... make sure your calendar is clear," he said confidently.
She quirked an eyebrow. "You sound confident."
"Of course I am. After all, even I take time off and I can't spend every night going to ambassadorial events."
"Oh! You are a man of rare talents. Make the arrangements, it's a date!" He left after some small talk, indicating he'd complete the order immediately.
Glancing at her calendar, she noted that her journey back to Germania was rapidly approaching. Another year nearly gone? Well, we should have just enough time in the Unified States before then. Even after all this time, it still comes down to schedules and logistics. "I guess we'll see who's better at this!" A grin that could only be called wicked crossed her face.
* * *
[Francois Republic]
A lonely shepherd looked out over his flock, lost in thought. Truthfully, it took very little effort to maintain vigilance over the docile creatures but they were quite stupid and could wander off. It had been generations since there were any significant number of predators in this region so even that bit of adventure was unlikely to occur.
He sang softly a tune he had heard from a girl a few years ago. "The hills are alive, with the sound of music..." His voice wasn't at all bad and it had an interesting burr that could have been unpleasant but, for him, just added to the character of his singing. His dog, a patou that was stocky enough to take on a wolf, came back from patrol and then, after circling three times, lay down.
Though she still kept her eye on the herd... just in case.
"I guess she's in America now, huh?" The boy said to no one in particular. Though they had been completely fooled when she had lived with them, the boy had pieced together the events after hearing 'Argent' sing. Even before the songs she had graced them with had been released as albums, he was convinced.
Etienne remembered his childish crush but it had faded to a pleasant ache months ago. Even though he realized they were the same person intellectually, on some level he thought of 'Maria' as the cute bespectacled scholar belonging to this little village and not someone who was abroad shaking the world.
"I guess I don't blame her for tricking us, she was in a tight spot, after all. I wonder if I'd like the 'real' her as much?" His dog raised an eyebrow but lowered it again without commentary.
"Hey, maybe that was the real her. The whole Rhine thing was just what she had to do and we are the only ones who got to see the real girl?" The thought gave him pleasure even though he found it unlikely considering the sheer number of people she was said to have killed. Even in his own head, however, he didn't think of her as a Devil... not Maria, never.
"I wonder if she ever thinks about us, Camille?" The dog yawned in response.
"I suppose you're right. She's awfully busy."
The day faded and twilight slowly blanketed the valley. Etienne had provisions for a few days as this field was rather far from his home and they would be out here for awhile. He was about to prepare dinner and, after the flock had settled down, to go to sleep himself.
Camille growled softly.
Not one to discount such a clear warning, Etienne whispered, "What is it girl?" He wished he had his rifle... well, his family's rifle at any rate. But it was hanging above the fireplace mantle as it had been years since they feared invasion... by either humans or beasts! That aside, he still had a protection in the form of a sling; the traditional weapon of shepherds for millennia.
Keeping low to the ground, both man and dog, they moved using the underbrush as cover. The area wasn't heavily wooded, of course, since he was out here to find fields and slopes of grass and clover, not trees. Still, there was enough to hide the two of them in the evening darkness if they were careful. For the first time, Etienne regretted the glossy white fur of his dog but there was nothing to be done about it.
After a minute, he began to pick up voices, quiet but urgent. Are they using candles? Those aren't flashlights. He lay down on the heather with Camille next to him and peered over slight hill. Etienne saw a line of dark-robed figures holding open oil lamps that flickered in the slight breeze.
The patou was silent, sensing her master's mood but her fangs were slightly visible.
What are they doing out here? WHO are they? He watched them curiously as they wound their way through countryside. Given the light levels and the rolling hills, it was quite the coincidence that he noticed them. If not for his dog, he likely wouldn't have ever spotted them at all.
Etienne was planning to just let them pass and then go back to his chores. There were all manner of people, strange or otherwise, and who was he to say how people should pass their time? His parents had told them the war brought out all manner of 'queer folk' and this group certainly met that description.
He was about slip back when he spotted something different. Instead of the dark figures, there was one in white and shorter than the others. What's this? He strained his eyes and saw blonde hair... long, blonde hair. Is that... is that a girl?
* * *
[Germania – Berun ]
The businessmen politely shook hands with the Vice President of TvP as they left the meeting. Though they were all smiles, some were sweating inside of their expensive suits. All but a few convened at a nearby bar in a private room.
One of the middle-aged men sat back in his chair, drink in hand. He downed it and quickly refilled it. "Ah, that was stressful! I've heard stories, but..."
Another nodded. "You aren't just spinning tales, partner. She knew everything... everything! Is she really just twenty?"
"I think she's twenty-one."
The man thumped his fist on the table, for emphasis, not in anger. "That's immaterial, man!"
"Is it? At that age, a year makes a big difference."
Another man blanched. "Mein Gott! You mean she will become more fierce?!"
The oldest one, and also the only one that was as calm as he had appeared in the meeting, simply nodded. "How soon you forget! She survived fire and steel and survived it all." He sipped his drink, savoring the vintage. "Imagine! She walked with the Grim Reaper himself at her side."
"Herself," someone countered.
There was general laughter at that, though some were forced.
"So, how much did we lose?" one of the younger ones asked.
"Don't be foolish, lad, why would we make a deal where we LOSE money? Perhaps we didn't make as much as we wanted." His supervisor tapped a cigar ash into a tray. "We left our pride on the table, and we don't have any control at all."
"Doesn't the army have a third share of the unified railroad? How is that no control?"
"Which means that Ugar is voting those shares..."
"...and that means with TvD, they have over fifty percent." The young man finally realized.
The man harumphed. "You finally realized that? Frankly, we're going to make a great deal more money with the new deal but its more like a pensioners fund."
"So we just sit back and... collect money?"
"We always have the option of selling our shares. If we think we can invest better with the money rather than leaving it where it is, that would make the most sense, but do you really think you'd do better than that young lady?"
That question lead to an uncomfortable silence!
* * *
[Germania - Berun]
Visha happily directed her secretary to clean up the conference room. "That went quite well! I thought they would fight more than that but apparently good sense – and money – won out in the end."
The secretary gathered up the documents, glancing at the agreements though he knew well what was on them. "Did you think otherwise?"
Visha laughed! "I asked Tanya much the same question and she was very pessimistic about people and their pride. She said that many people would die for their ego rather than change a single iota of their worldview."
"This may sound heretical, but maybe you are better at convincing people? Don't get me wrong, the President is enormously competent but where emotions are concerned..." he let his voice trail off.
"She's more like a bull elephant than a butterfly? Don't be shy; no one knows this better Tanya herself. You notice that she is handling the grand strategy but I meet with these businessmen? She's the Ambassador but her second-in-command handles the consulate duties? Delegate, delegate, delegate! Speaking of which, get the minutes typed up and everything filed. I need to get some lunch before I rampage myself."
She stepped out and spotted one of the businessmen from the meeting outside. "Ah, herr Zollinger is it? I had thought you left awhile ago."
"Please, that name is for dusty boardrooms, not beautiful sunny days. Out here it's Ignatz."
She glanced up at the overcast sky and raised an eyebrow.
He put a hand over his chest. "I am, of course, referring to the eternal sunshine that exists in my heart."
Visha chuckled, "Well, I'll leave you to your flower watching, then."
"Frau Serebryakov, would you care to join me for lunch? I must admit, I was waiting out here for that opportunity."
"Oh? Did you have more business to discuss?"
"No, well yes, but actually no." He seemed a bit flustered
"I... see."
"Let me start again. I would love to have lunch with you because I want to have lunch with you."
Visha pondered this very briefly. Ignatz was a reasonably bright, reasonably handsome man. She had been so busy with business, and with the war before that, that she had entirely neglected her private life. While she had 'work friends' and her deep relationship with Tanya, that was hardly a romantic relationship. Much like Tanya, finding someone even vaguely compatible was nearly impossible.
But, if I don't try at all, it will be LITERALLY impossible! Lunch seems innocuous enough as there will be no implied expectations.
"Certainly, herr Zoll... Ignatz. I do have meetings later, so it can't be a long lunch. Do you have a place in mind?"
* * *
[Unified States – off the coast of North Carolina]
Several people who more often met in robes and masks were enjoying the upper deck amenities on the very expensive yacht. They were on their way to a private island further south but they were wont to mix business and pleasure.
"I'll keep this brief. We have reports that there's some group making moves."
"Some group? Surely there's more detail than that?"
She shook her head. "Arsenic is digging into it but they are in the shadows entirely."
"How did he find out, then?"
She shrugged and smirked. "We also move in the shadows. Is it so strange that you might find someone else there as well? At any rate, he'll tell us more soon and then we can decide to 'handle' the situation.