He lay in a tilted back chair, restrained by harnesses on nearly every moveable part of his body. Not even his immense strength could tear these metal bonds, and he was glad for that during the examination. Across the room was a large 72-inch telescreen.
Sporting no frames or visible mechanics like the relics of old, the telescreens appeared to the naked eye to be mere floating rectangles of glass. The mechanics for them were located under the plaster of the wall behind them, constantly feeding signals to the screens. On this particular screen was footage from his latest mission in Iran, all from Will’s point of view.
Dr. Krenzler and his assistant Myers walked in.
“Good morning, S.S.C. Unit 21,” greeted the Doctor. His white hair made his age apparent, although he wasn’t severely aged in his facial features. Myers was much younger, and was fairly new to HQ.
“Having problems, I hear?”
“Yes, sir. It first happened last night. Ever since then, I have been seeing bits and pieces of that same image. Even now, as I was in standby mode, just before you arrived.”
Krenzler and Myers looked at the information on the display screens. Both seemed confused.
“It’s strange,” commented his assistant, “there doesn’t appear to be any errors or damage to his skull, or anywhere else for that matter.”
“Yes, Myers, it is quite puzzling. This usually only occurs when there is some kind of head trauma. But I think I know the perfect solution. Fetch the injection gun, and fill it with ten milliliters of velocicide please.”
“Right away, sir” Myers said. He immediately left the room to get the device.
“What are the images I see?” Will asked, breaking the silence. He was determined to know. They felt so real, yet at the same time, so blurry. Whether reality or fantasy, he absolutely had to know.
“Well,” Krenzler said, walking over to Will, “put in simple terms, they appear to be dreams. It is a natural part of the mind’s anatomy.”
“You mean like a memory?” he suggested. Krenzler continued checking the many screens as he spoke,
“To be honest, it’s hard to tell. The brain is a very complex organ and even in a healthy human sometimes memories are abstract reconstructions of what we have actually experienced.”
“So for all I know, these images could be memory and fantasy all melded together.”
“All that we can be sure of is that they are configurations of what is left of your human mind. There are not essential for your programming.”
“It sounds like they could become hindrances to my performance in the field. Why are these defects within my CPU? I was under the presumption that I was state of the art.”
“And you are. The flaw is evasive, but it can be dealt with.”
Will looked up at the ceiling, its bright lights nearly blinding. If he was feeling anything now, it was anger. Me? Defects? Impossible.
Krenzler could see the bitterness in his face, and turned away to check some other readings. Once more silence crept into the room. Then Myers returned, holding an object that looked rather like a large, silver pistol. Myers handed it to the Doctor, along with a syringe filled with a sky blue gelatin-looking substance. Krenzler loaded it into the injection gun, the device humming slowly.
Krenzler now approached Will, holding the device just like a gun, his finger steady on the trigger. With any other being, fear would be gripping them by the throat by now. Will merely glanced at the approaching Doctor, taking note of the threatening instrument that was supposed to help him, but paid it no attention. Still, Krenzler felt the human need to offer him at least some form of comfort.
“It’ll be all right. I’ve given this same treatment to other S.S.C. units a number of times. I’m just glad we caught it early.”
Krenzler removed part of the headrest, exposing the back of his Will’s head. Under the hair and skin was metal, and beneath that his own warm blood. The Doctor rested the tip of the device on the back of his head slowly, taking precise aim right above the area where the skull and vertebrae joined. It was there that the precise design work had allowed a tiny weak spot, one so small only a needle could exploit, and of course only one such as Krenzler holding the needle, to know exactly where to aim it.
“Ready?” he asked, noting just how still and calm Will remained. It was plain inhuman. But of course, he recounted, that part of him, that fear, died long ago.
“Yes, Doctor,” he replied. He could feel the slight vibrations of the shiny instrument as it continued to hum quietly. Then the needle sank in, sliding through the small slit in the neoartium coat of armor. Then Krenzler pulled the trigger, releasing the velocicide into his blood stream. Will felt it pumping the liquid into him, felt its cold embrace flowing through his head and spreading around his body. His eyes weakened.
So, he thought to himself as it went on, this is what they feel, this odd sensation. His whole form now felt extremely cold and somewhat far away, as if he no longer had a body. Will rationalized this was what true euphoria felt like, completely free.
“Dr. Krenzler,” Will said, in a mouse-like whisper.
“Yes, 21?”
“I’m…glad...no one had to die.”
Will couldn’t see any facial details by now, but if he could have, he would’ve seen the scientist’s almost tragic smile.
“Me too,” he said quietly in return.
Chapter 6 – The Eulogy
April 5, 2065 - Rock Creek Park, Washington D.C.
The masses of people poured into the ceremonial grounds. Already thousands had gathered, and many more were on their way. Several news vehicles and their crews had arrived well beforehand, reporting live as preparations continued. Rock Creek Park had in the last decade, become the sole green oasis among a landscape of almost entirely gray skyscrapers and other structures. In the center of the park stood an enormous bronze statue of Venloran. It was at least ten meters tall, and reflected the midday’s light beautifully. It was striking a majestic pose, with one hand curled into a fist, cementing his image of power. For today’s event, banners even hung from its arms. At its feet was a large podium where the Chancellor would make his speech. To the left and the right of the podium were a few chairs where the guests of honor sat.
Will was among those guests, along with Luis, though Commander Kane would not be attending. The super soldier was disappointed at that, but he knew his superior officer was on prisoner detail today, so he didn’t dwell on it for long. Instead, he found a smile on his face. Ignoring the appointment with Dr. Krenzler this morning, this would be a marvelous day. Finally, recognition for our acts.
He knew the majority of the spotlight would go to the Chancellor, which he found very appropriate. Still, it was remarkable. Seated alongside him were military leaders from all over the country, among them were a few giants. He recognized two members of the Chancellor’s UNR Cabinet among the people who’d come to take part in the momentous occasion. Seeing two monumental figures like General Berenger and Admiral Montalbán was an honor in itself. The select few members of the Cabinet were founding members of the UNR Party, long before its current position in the world. If Will was lucky, he’d get to shake their hands today.
The Chancellor’s beloved wife was also an attendee, speaking with them casually. It was a spectacular sight for the soldier. Major Johnson was also there at the podium, along with Bia, and of course, Luis. He too saw the sea of people, and Will saw that glimmer in his eye. There was a spike in the noise as the crowds became even more ecstatic. He had arrived.
Two UNR armored cars arrived ahead of a black limousine, with two more stationed behind it. They all parked next to Rock Creek, not far from the statue. As the UNR guards stepped out of the cars, so did the Chancellor. The public seemed uncontrollable as he waved to them all.
“It’s incredible, the amount of applause. Chancellor Venloran has just arrived, and his entrance, of course, is far from unnoticed,” announced a reporter who stood only a few feet away from the podium. As V
enloran walked up a few steps, he shook the hands of Will, Luis, Johnson, and all the others. He finally made it to the podium, where he somehow managed to calm the people. He smiled warmly before speaking:
“Well, I made it on time,” he mused, “but before we take part in this glorious day, let us silence ourselves as the National Choir sings the Star Spangled Banner.”
All grew quiet as an elderly man stood near the front of the crowds. Seated facing the crowds was his choir. Young men and women, all dedicated to using their talent for its greatest purpose. It was an honor above all others. The once bustling crowd became dead silent as they began:
O say, can you see, by the dawn's early light…
Watching from his cell on a small telescreen, Halsey was at first, slumped against the wall on his bed, but he now stood up straight. He felt his skin prickle with goosebumps, as he realized he hadn’t heard those lyrics in…years. It’s been years. His right arm almost lifted itself to his heart instinctively, but he stopped himself. This is a eulogy, and nothing more, he reminded himself.
Venloran saluted accordingly, joined by his standing comrades. No matter how many things changed, he and the other founding members of the UNR Party had always known this anthem could never be replaced. With its raw power and long history, it continued to draw emotion from citizens and military personnel alike. Warren had such a lovely voice when he performed this in his school play. Venloran swallowed roughly.
Will was attentive to each word. It was only during this anthem that he ever removed his bandanna. Still, he kept it tightly clutched in his left hand. His pre-cyborg memories were foggy, but the little piece of red cloth had been with him always. Even back when bullets frightened him and he considered men worthy adversaries on the field of battle. The land of the free and the home of the brave. Perhaps becoming the perfect soldier is my freedom.
As the revered song came to a close, Janet Venloran herself stood at foremost attention.
“And now ladies and gentleman, we will indulge in a rousing rendition of the United Nation Republic Poem.” She said.
The National Choir once again raised their voices. This time Halsey stared with contempt and a deep sadness.
Oh, why must our hearts ache?
Relentless be our foe
We are forced to take yet another devastating blow
They hold back the light
Blood spilling onto our shores of white
After lies the moment of self-awakening.
A brightly shining dawn is approaching.
The enemy tries to stand strong
Their front line has already fallen
There is pouring rain and harsh cold winds
Yet our flame will burn on and on.
Not even fate could delay our day.
The ones executing tyranny finally pay.
The day of salvation, at long last, is finally here.
Our flaming sword will sear
Light descends.
The poem drew to the end, and the audience burst into appreciative applause. The news crews watched as the cyborgs clapped as well. All were surprised, however, to see Venloran take his seat among the others as Major Johnson rose to the podium in his place.
“Are all of you not inspired?” he said, patiently awaiting their response. Naturally, the crowd was moved to clap again.
“Yes, what a joyous day it is. Today we are reminded of why we are the empire of the world. Untouchable, invincible, and unbreakable will are just a few words to describe our United Nation Republic.”
***
Some distance away, atop a skyscraper vigilant eyes were watching the festivities like a bird of prey eyeing its domain. Hans chatted to a group of UNR subordinates, giving orders and so forth. Cisco was practicing with his sniper rifle, taking aim at the mass of people far below. They seemed so tiny, so insect-like, a sea of colors that spread far and wide. Looking through his scope, what were once pin drops to the naked eye became distinct faces, as he clearly distinguished one person from another. Hans took notice of his antics.
“Boy, I appreciate your enthusiasm, but try to mellow out, all right?” he suggested.
“Sorry, sir,” he said, lowering his gun, “it’s just that it’s my first mission and all. I’m a little anxious.”
“Uh, sure. Listen, kid, this is a routine security perimeter, so don’t get too excited. Once the real fighting starts, it’s not going to be what you expect.”
“I guess I won’t know until it arrives, sir.”
“No one’s ever ready for it, but with those two cyborgs down there I wouldn’t fret.”
“Right, sir.”
From their vantage point, the Chancellor was positioned in front of the statue’s enormous leg. The other surrounding buildings were shorter and any sniper’s view would be blocked by the many trees in the area. Cisco realized this was more babysitting detail than anything else, but an assignment nonetheless. He made the most out of it.
***
Far down below the building Hans and Cisco resided on a lone bum rested in the alley. The young man hesitantly took a sip of the malt liquor. Almost immediately, he found the taste was comparable to the muck found in rain puddles. Being seated next to a dumpster probably didn’t help. That’s when he heard footsteps approaching. About damn time. Feeling their shadows on him, he now took a hefty gulp from the bottle. The stench of it radiated from his mouth like a warm exhale on a cold day, the remaining droplets caught in his unkempt chin hairs.
Staring down at him were two UNR soldiers, though they kept a certain distance from him. And why not, with his torn beanie, the stained duster, and of course the lovely blue sweatpants with one exposed knee. The hoodie underneath was a maroon red with the remnants of some university’s logo marked on the front. The lettering had mostly faded away.
“Out late last night, sir?” one of them asked. “We can take you home.”
“Actually, I’m in the middle of transitioning to my own apartment. Fiancé put me out on my ass.”
The soldiers exchanged glances before returning their eyes to the man with his ass on the alley trash and his back against Tom & Benicio’s.
“That’s unfortunate, sir,” the first one said, this time his tone more authoritarian than neighborly. “Any substances on you we should know about?”
“Just a pack of Reds and a copy of Insomnia.” This was said in a genuine manner, though the man knew what was happening.
“Then I guess you’ll be traveling lightly. We got a clean house just up the street where you can get a hot meal. Not to mention a cozy bed where you can catch up on…I’m sorry, what did you say you were reading again?”
“Insomnia, by Stephen King.”
They snickered at him for a brief moment and the man’s breathing intensified ever so slightly.
“And what’s so humorous about that?”
The soldier who had remained silent all this time continued to smile, as the other questioned the man. The talker continued to act somewhat professional, attentive, and waiting for the man’s response. The bum down on the ground knew this drill. Probing for my mental state. Hmm, I guess I can go either way on this one. Time’s almost up anyhow.
“More than I could explain without you two falling behind after the first few minutes.”
Their expressions changed at that one.
“Excuse me, I didn’t catch that.”
“Never mind that, just cut to the chase and promise me that once I’m enlisted I can still get my hands on plenty of these,” he said, holding up the now half empty bottle, “and get my damn balls looked at.”
These two soldiers knew their duty well, but here in the presence of this particular guy, they found themselves dumbfounded. They stood there speechless as the man took another drink. Right on time a news van flew by the alley at sixty and showed no signs of slowing down.
The two troops turned and rushed to the alley’s entrance, watching as the van smashed its way through a few cars before entering the
park. The sound of glass and metal being shattered was accompanied by the screams of hundreds. Both men ran toward Rock Creek Park now, lucky to be right across the street from the ensuing chaos. As they ran past the barely scratched armored vehicles, one of them yelled:
“STAY PUT UNTIL THEY GIVE THE ORDER!”
The driver inside nodded even though she had a startled look on her face and a glaze of sweat to boot. Seated inside the fortress, she could see the slaughter going on at the park. Hundreds of civilians were running past her position, every one of them screaming like frantic animals. Despite all of the insanity going on, she felt the need to look away from it all. As she did, a chill spread so deeply down her spine and through her body, Private Inez Laura almost let out a scream. But she didn’t. It was the end all right but she wasn’t going to disgrace herself.
Ten feet from her window was a bum in a duster. His eyes were an ice-cold blue, and the stare he gave her was a look she’d seen before. Those were the eyes of a soldier who’d dealt a lot of death. In one of his hands was a RX-170 double-barrel shotgun, raised to her driver side window. A rare weapon and one Inez knew could blast its way through the bulletproof glass that was supposed to be impenetrable.
One truly thunderous shot later, the discharged ammunition blew away the window and the majority of Inez’s face.
***
“Whole nations tremble at the mention of our name and are we all not proud to be among those privileged to live on this soil?” Major Johnson continued, “Thanks to our dear Chancellor, we have had a long period of peace and prosperity. But now he will shed some light on recent events that threaten the very peace we value so much.”
The crowd waited as Venloran took the podium again:
“Yes, you may find it hard to believe, but there are still those who wish to cause disorder and chaos. Since the beginning, my only objective has been to bring a much-needed end to global conflicts, to war itself. And have I not? There’s an old proverb that states, ‘nothing lasts forever.’ I for one, disagree with that. My reign, along with the peace I have secured, will last forever.
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