Authors notes.
Extra information at the bottom for this chapter. Just if you are wandering about a few things. I'm going to lower the rating of this from M to T for a small experiment also. I have noticed that many M rated stories have few reviews because you have to actively search for them. After a few hours or a day it will then return to M. The earlier chapters are probably passable for a T rating anyway.
'The Benevolent Scriber': Thank you once again for the review! I'm glad you liked the last chapter. The POV characters I have now done will probably be the only ones for a while. So Chris, Sarah, Maria, James, Casdin, Pacie and Malcolm. So both Maria and James will be fleshed out a lot more. Of course I have to keep the suspense! I have to pretend I know what's going to happen too :P. I have the basics but… everything else is fluid. I know as much as everyone else. There's the Capitol Republic its being threatened, that's it :P.
666 Kage: Thanks for the review! I'm glad you thought the last chapter was humorous. I tried to convey the same fallout humour in certain parts of my story. Maria's thoughts especially had me chuckling. The mind of a child eh? The Chris-Sarah dialog is that of a sometimes bickering married couple that are still very… passionate about one another. Whilst the Sarah-Amata dialog was Sarah being 'diplomatic' haha.
Lets begin!
Chapter eleven
_Republic, Republic
'America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.'
- Abraham Lincoln
Tuesday 7th July 2294: 18.00 EST. Libertyville: The old Lincoln memorial.
"All rise for the Steel Chairman." Council Speaker Hamlin announced. It was a sign of respect for his accomplishments and his position. All stood up from their seated positions.
The Congress council, if one could call it that was merely an amalgamation of numerous tables all laced together to form a narrow yet rather long line.
There were fifty chairs along the Congress table. Admittedly its haphazard symbolism was not lost on Chris. Disjointed and cracked, with numerous trappings of furniture all united into one whole. Premier Roe sat at the opposite side of this rectangular construct. While he was positioned at the feet of Old President Lincoln and his restored statue.
Chris beckoned them all to returned their seats. They did so immediately.
None of them which to be here, especially at this time.
It was needed however, yet that being said, the Steel Chairman would makes this as quick as humanly possible. He remained standing for his future oration. He had rehearsed that he would say on the journey here.
"Representatives. I am grateful for your presence even at a time such as this. Premier Roe has called this unanticipated session for an important reason, one which threatens this very Republic. This Republic which we all hold dear…" murmurs began, whispers between congress men and women became bountiful. Speaker Hamlin stepped in to quieten the incessant chatter.
"SILENCE! Show our Chairman some respect, you all owe it him." The sound of voices ceased. Hamlin's order had cowed them to speechlessness perfectly.
"As I was saying, this session is about a threat to our Republic, one which I have not seen since the Enclave, the one all of us faced… before our nations inception." more murmurs began, yet stopped after a few moments. He continued.
"We have lost one of our recon teams and a Vertibird already to this threat…" at that one voice jumped up from the forty seven Representatives.
"Chairman Lancaster, how does one lose a Vertibird?" a few isolated sniggers supported this particular Representatives question.
Bannon, of course it'd be him. No doubt Yale will be throwing questions at me too.
"By it being taken or destroyed. That's how Representative."
"Taken or destroyed by whom?" this time it was Yale. The inseparable duo, how he disliked both of them.
"If you'll let me finish Representative Yale, I will tell you. Now please, listen. Then speak, not before."
Both remained silent. Good, they sometimes forgot that their Steel Chairman had probably killed more Raiders, super mutants and Enclave soldiers over the years than the whole population of Rivet City. A little authoritarianism in his speech reminded those that sometimes chose to ignore this well known fact. They could question him… after he'd spoken and not before.
His briefing was similar to the one he'd given Premier Roe at the Citadel. Chris retold all present the information garnered over the last few days, linking them with the year long raids and rustling by the Fredixie's in the south as well as informing all of the Outcast re-unification and their story.
Now the time for questions would begin officially. Speaker Hamlin spoke once again, after a nod from himself informing the wearied ex-slave that he'd finally finished his account.
"The Steel Chairman's brief has finished. Stand all those that have questions, they may now be asked."
Now this was becoming very official. Session's such as this were a rarity. They involved far less arguments and unwanted diversions. Ernest and Hannibal Hamlin would be thanked for this apparent preparation afterwards.
Speaker Hamlin would call out a Representative standing up and they would ask their question. Chris would then answer. It was a relatively simple process yet effective. It was a shame it happened so infrequently.
"Representative Bannon of Rivet Central. Congress is yours." So it was him first then, Yale would follow. Like a bad smell.
"Thank you Speaker. I shall ask the same question again Chairman. How does one lose a Vertibird? It must land for it to be stolen, yes? Yet there was no distress call. Even enemies that have 'stealth capabilities' would still need to open the door of such a aircraft. Why would your esteemed pilot open his wing door for an enemy?"
A point, the Steel Chairman hadn't considered yet, if it was linked to the Forgotten brothers, the Brotherhoods new name for the remaining Outcast… the thought sent a chill down his spine. Surely Paladin Finley and his team wouldn't do such a thing. He simply couldn't answer this. For he had no answer. This irked him the most.
"That is a question I have no answer to I'm afraid. That is why Premier Roe and I believe it is so important. That is why I have taken these military measures, in venturing into the south. I assure you Representative Bannon finding out this answer is one of our primary priorities. Do you wish another question?"
"No Steel Chairman that has sated my curiosity for now, maybe I will deem to give another in a few moments." Bannon was a snake, Chris knew that. He'd seem harmless at first then without warning like one of those pre-war reptiles he would strike. The snake sank back down onto his viper pit chair. Hamlin called another councilperson to air their questions and concerns.
"Representative Holmes of Anacostia Rivet East. The Congress is yours." Seagrave Holmes, a good man. A close confidant of Premier Roe also. He'd been Premier for a five year term from the nations birth until 2289, he never ran for a second term.
"Thank you Speaker. Greetings Chairman it is always an honour when you are among us." A chorus of 'yeahs' and 'ayes' filled the antiquated memorial. He nodded to Holmes in appreciation.
"This is a question on these military advances. I trust your judgement Chairman but what of the Raven's to the north? They are a visible threat… and a tangible issue, one that you know only to well. Should we not strike into Old Baltimore first? Snap the beak and pluck the feathers from this newly winged Raven before we turn our attention south. We do not know where these vault's in Virginia are."
That was surprising coming from Seagrave, a very hawkish attitude. Tactically sound, yet Chris believed the threat from the south was graver than that of the north.
"The Raven's are moving east not south Representative Holmes. Yet I understand your views. I believe asking our newly acquired friends in Annesplace to send a contingent of their own soldiers to bolster our fortifications at Jessup's Junction would be a sound idea." He waited for a moment to get his point across, there was no dissention heard, only a look of ill ease from the Representative of Crofton.
"It will also see how our new comrades will react to being directed by congress. Yet a sortie into Baltimore has not been disregarded. Up to date Intel informs us of the Raven's movements regularly as well as their allies. We can not discount any idea at the moment. Yet… I believe the threat from these vaults are too important to ignore. They must be our top priority."
Chris held this to be a certainty, he was sure of this southern threat. Seagrave's question had been answered, he sat down with one part satisfaction and another part disappointment. He couldn't please everyone, even his comrades on this council. The Speaker of Congress spoke once again.
"Representative Danvers of Lyons Tower. The Congress is yours." Brandon Danvers. He was newly elected after their last representative fell off the infamous and awe inspiring tower, the one before that had been killed by raiders two years ago. She had recklessly commanded her own security unit to assault a nearby encampment before CRsec reinforcements could arrive. She had been decapitated with a rusted machete then raped post-mortem, whilst her reinforcements had surrounded the camp waiting to assault it from all sides. This particular tower had as many Representatives as past names and more deceased leaders over the past twenty years than any other community. Brandon was originally from Rivet City. The younger brother to Colonel Lana Danvers and more importantly from a Brotherhood point of view, the great uncle and Godfather to the young Jeremy Maxson. Still, this man was of unknown quality.
"Thanks speaker, much obliged. Well met Chairman. I see you're already prepared for war with the Power Armour you're geared up in. The Tower of Lyons will gladly support whatever actions you take. Freddie's are a nuisance to us quite frankly and have been hitting our water caravans for god's knows how long, they killed some of our men a few weeks back on the outlying ranches. I'll ask the Steel Chairman if he'd be so kind to send some of the Tower's men to help in this push south, they're wanting justice." Yet another supporter, good. That request was something he could oblige.
"I can grant that Representative. Send your personnel to Dale, they'll be attached to the units there." With that, Representative Danvers found his chair and sat once more, a considerate smile was laden across his face. The young Representative nodded once in thanks to him.
Next came Yale, the bad smell had soon returned. Just once he wished both he and his slimy compatriot Bannon would jump into the Potomac and drown. Alas, that wish could not be granted. The same honorific's from Hannibal Hamlin where uttered.
"Representative Yale of Jefferson Rivet West. Congress is yours."
"Thank you speaker you are most kind. I heard you speak of these Outcasts before, do you think it wise to let them have full access to our defence systems and weaponry? It's seem fallacious that our esteemed Elder and your wife I might add allowed this to happen. It also seems to me now that both our Military and our Government are ruled by one family. I… find this distasteful. Would you admit our position to the democratic vote in future Chairman or is this Republic to become a dictatorship?" A cacophony of 'boo's' and 'yeah's' where now heard. Representatives shouting at Representatives, voicing their opinions louder than their opposition.
"SILENCE! You speak offensively Representative Yale. Steel Chairman Lancaster is the one person you should be thanking for giving you a vote at all. Might I add the Steel Sovereignty Bill of '86 makes the position of Steel Chairman for use by the Brotherhood only. It is not hereditary, only the best and wisest are given this position but of the Brotherhood, a meritocracy if you knew what one was. This session is not about constitutional reform but of threats to this nation." He owed Hannibal another drink or ten. The freed slave and freedom fighter was the warhorse of this council. All obeyed him. Silence once again descended upon Congress.
"Thank you Speaker. I shall answer Representative Yale none the less. Firstly as Speaker Hamlin rightly pointed out. The position I hold is for members of the Brotherhood of Steel only. Yet it has also been written that a Elder cannot be a Chairman. Do not think I am cowed by my superior Representative Yale, I have had more arguments with her than I've ever had with you." A torrent of laughter burst out across the memorial hall after that, even Bannon sniggered. Yale's face was turning scarlet, his arms now crossed in a defensive posture. He slunk back down to his chair. The Brotherhood Sentinel and Steel Chairman continued, he'd need to hammer this point figuratively home.
"The method of choosing a Steel Chairman is by appointment by the Elder, then by vote. The Brotherhood voted me into this position. A meritocracy and democracy. When I retire from this post, the same process will apply. Any one in the Brotherhood can be made Steel Chairman, except a sitting Elder." He paused, giving his words more weight, now his own politicking would begin.
"…Representative Handel of Big Town, your brother Nicolas could be the next Chairman so too can your husband Peter. He has recently been made a Senior Scribe if he hasn't informed you already. Representative Danvers, your great nephew Jeremy, could become Steel Chairman when he's come of age. Representative Holmes. Your step-son Bryan is now a Knight, he could also be Chairman in future. There are more men and women of the wasteland in the Brotherhood than in there has been in anytime for the past two hundred years. Representatives of the Council, this was the reason for the Brotherhood Schism eighteen years ago and this is the reason why the Outcasts have returned to ask for our forgiveness. It is not Steel that makes the Brotherhood strong, it is us! The wasteland and our fellow wastelander's. We have tempered this Steel. It is the shield of this Republic because of people like you and me. Our children and relatives are in this ancient order, they too shield us with their armour and cut down our enemies with their steel. Do not believe otherwise." Shouts of approval echoed crossed the monument. It had been taken perfectly by the majority of councilperson's.
Lets see Yale talk his way out of that.
"Steel Chairman… I concede the point." Bingo, that would keep his mouth shut for the rest of this session. It was a shame his persuasion and oration ability had not gleamed any information from Charlotte '61'. It mattered not here though. His Persuasive skills ruled this council, a power armoured fist behind a velvet glove. How he'd love to knock Yale out with it...
The question and answer session continued for another five minutes before everyone bar one Representative remained. The majority of questions where mundane, other questions had been simply expanded upon previous queries in the session. Chris heard the speakers voice yet again, it had been ever a constant in this prolonged conversation amongst peers.
"This will be the final question to the Steel Chairman. Representative Croft of Crofton. The congress is yours." Louisa Croft. The name was not coincidental. She was of the ruling house of Crofton, a Presidential oligarchy, which had been once run by three merchant houses, now just one. Her brother governed the settlement domestically. Whilst she represented it supra-nationally. Chris knew not the story of where the other two houses had… disappeared.
"Thanks be to you speaker and thank you kindly Steel Chairman. I've heard all question that have come before yet I have one no one has yet asked. Why do we trust these men and women of Annesplace to help us in defending our homes from the north? Them Annenite's are a sly and deceitful people. My grandpa and papa found this out firsthand when they put their heads on rusted spikes. The gates of Annesplace still hold these two spikes aloft. The entire Rift and Holden families also got the taste of Queen Anne's justice, slaughtered to the last babe. To remind any traders from Crofton of the consequences of even the merest slights to their 'honour'. This slight in question being a late payment of 'royal protection' money. It is for this main reason we petitioned to join this Republic, yet not only have we now admitted them into it, we are fortifying our borders with these soulless tyrants..."
"Nonsense! This is nonsense Chairman! The citizen's of Annesplace are great allies, they would never do such a thing! This is but slander and lies from this Crofton…girl." A chorus of agreement followed the interruption. It was Yale once more. Of course it would be. He'd held his head in embarrassment for too long. It was no wonder he'd come out biting, with venom spitting from his mouth.
"I'm no girl! You toe-eyed fuck! You see only what's under that beaked nose. You sit in the protection of Rivet, yet you do not know the threats us in the outer settlements face!" Speaker Hamlin looked to him briefly. He shook his head. Chris would need to hear this, then he would call an end to it.
"Listen you Crofton whore! It's you who is blind! I have heard the story, the envoy from Annesplace informed me. It was all three family's of Crofton who sent miltia to accost Annenite traders going south. They died when they were attacked… rightly by Annenite guards."
"Brahmin-shit you slimy golden sliver of Guai piss. I'm no whore and I am not blind. Those words are damned lies. How is my year old cousin Davia Rift now dead then, killed at the tit along with my sister, her ma. She certainly didn't assault any trading caravans. Talk out of that you Rad-el snake!" Oh how he adored this women in those brief moments. Those words were priceless. Yale's features had turned scarlet once once. Improper for a politician. They were still the colours of a dangerous serpent. Yale looked to recompose himself.
"Steel Chairman this is unbecoming of a Representative. This is not what this session is about anyway." How he liked to turn rules to his advantage. It was little more than six minutes ago when this had been applied to him also. Chris gave a solemn nod, Speaker Hamlin spoke.
"This session is not about the recent admission of Annesplace into the Republic but the threats to the south & north and our future military presence there." Croft had also composed herself, she looked at him sheepishly sending a briefly daggered glare in Representative Yale's direction.
"Fine speaker, I apologies Chairman. Yet I advise you that trusting Queen Anne and the people of Annesplace will do us only harm. We are best to watch our backs where they are concerned. Even if Representative Yale believes otherwise." Chris turned to see Yale open his mouth but he waved him away. He was now chaired, he could not officially speak. His mouth shut firmly.
If only I could do that all the time.
More importantly he also had wondered why Croft had always voiced concern about the settlement to the east. Louisa had always abstained on any voting in regards to Annesplace. He of course knew the official reason for Crofton's petition yet that had only been of threats from raiders and the north, not from their eastern neighbour. He would need to do something about this, if it was indeed true.
"Representative Croft. The matter shall be taken under advisement. I will send people to investigate these claims. They happened before Crofton's admission into the Republic, I assure you however if there is truth to this matter a permanent presence of the Brotherhood will be stationed in your community. Under no circumstances will violence be tolerated between Capitol members." That was enough it seemed. Louisa found her seat.
Brotherhood personal would also be sent to Annesplace's immediately. Transgression between settlements were not permitted. If past enmity resurfaced both the Brotherhood and CRsec would be sent in. Fortunately this section under the Defensibility act had yet to be implemented.
Hopefully it wouldn't come to that though. This Republic had enough on its already overflowing plate. Another siding of woe's and trouble from the east would be disastrous. Thankful this council meeting was now finished yet more pressure had seemed to pile onto his shoulders. Speaker Hamlin voice echoed across the room once again. Fulfilling his last duty of the evening, making its ending official.
"This session is now closed. Tomorrows session begins at midday. Dismissed." All stood up bar Premier Roe and Hamlin. Chairman Lancaster finally sat down.
Men and women filtered out, some returning to their homes, others staying in Libertyville lodging as their own communities were too far away. After most had dispersed both Ernest and Hannibal stood. Walking towards where he still sat. The Premier spoke.
"Well then Chris, I'm surprised how well that went. Still, trouble in the East too? For fuck sake does our job get any easier?" Despite himself, the Steel Chairman laughed.
"Never. I'd rather be lying prone in the wastes taking out slavers and raiders with my 50. Cal or wading through the lichen filled mud of point lookout giving feral's the peace they deserve. This is the worse sort of fight imaginable. One where our only weapons are words." The trio of men grinned at that.
"It's better to unseat an enemy with words then with swords Chairman. It's the price we must pay for freedom and liberty. I for one much prefer shouting down Representatives than bellowing on a battlefield though." That comment had come from Hamlin.
"Well Hannibal… I much prefer my wife to any of it." A chuckle came from the elderly speaker and a smirk was painted across Roe's face.
"So… did you have a quickie before you went? I know what you two are like, arguing then going at it straight after. Why'd you think I left." His jaw fell at that. Chris's cheeks turned bright crimson. Hamlin then chipped in also.
"He's imitating Yale now Ern. The great emancipator wouldn't be pleased. So ask the question. Did you have a go of it before you came back here?"
"Shut up." Laughter burst from his older colleagues. He wouldn't live that down.
"I need a drink." Or ten.
'A child can ask questions that a wise man cannot answer.'
- Anon
The Citadel: Elder Lancaster's Quarters. 19.32 EST.
Although her father's room was now officially hers, she dared not claim it. Not yet. It was his room and would still be for sometime. Sarah would make do with her Sentinel Quarters, it was far more pleasant anyway.
It held a double bed with a peach duvet. Two cushions filled with Vulture feathers on each side. Drawers and bed-stands also mirrored each other on opposite sides, lamps on each of them. Three pre-war pictures were adorned on the painted cream walls. Whilst a rounded table and three chairs where positioned near the entrance. It was a luxurious residency indeed. She certainly didn't need two bedrooms. Her son was now sleeping in her bed, the sheets tucked comfortably around him. She sat alongside him, watching the rhythmic motions of the peach coloured duvet moving with his every breath.
James had fallen asleep upon getting into Lancer-Knight Philip Artemas' Vertibird. It's Callsign Angela. The maverick pilot enjoyed that name a little too much. They had been picked up at Megaton which was where she and three Knights had been dropped off. A quartet of Vaultsec officers which included Chief Officer Gomez had escorted them back to the large settlement.
Signs of battle where seen along the road to Springvale and cleaned up on their arrived journey, blackened bits of animal or human remains lay scattered across the pre-war highway near the recently exploded husks of some antiqued vehicles. She didn't wish James to see any of it. Sarah had said as much to Herman Gomez. It was close enough to both Vault 101 and Springvale to be a concern. The pathway wasn't guarded. It should have been. Two of the Knights with her had returned with the four Vaultsec personnel. Sentry posts would be erected immediately along the 101-Springvale route. Sentry posts that should have been up already.
Sarah the Elder had retired, she didn't need to order anyone about, not for a few minutes at least. It was Sarah the mother who now occupied this room with her only son. She stroked away his fair brown hair, which had fallen across his face. He looked so much like his father. Yet his sister looked so much like her. The quirks of genetics and birthing non-identical twins.
He stared from his sleep. Her son's eyes opening gently.
"Is it morning mom?" she shook her head in answer. A pleasant smile was brought forth also.
"What are you happy about mommy?" Her smile only grew.
"Because I am. You do realise now that you're at the Citadel you'll be a squire, like your sister." James answered shortly after.
"Yes, I know mom. A member of the Brotherhood and a vault dweller, just like daddy!" a chuckle escaped her lips. He was like his father alright. After that however she'd need to tell him something even she didn't wish to hear again. Chris had told Maria, she had coped well with the news. Hopefully James would too. Yet before she could speak, he came out with one of his own questions
"Why did all those Knights call you Elder? And Amata and Officer Gomez plus Artemas too. Granddaddy's the Elder isn't he? Unless… he isn't anymore." Her heart sank, surely James hadn't worked it all out already. Simple slips of the tongue or relatively normal honorific's had been all the information he needed. Her very inquisitive young child had seemingly put the rest into place. Sarah gave the answer, one even she still didn't wish to hear.
"No he isn't… he's souls gone to Steel now." Those where all the words she would muster. Sadness was now a washed across her features.
"When did he die? Can I… see him? He said he'd teach me how to use his Laser Pistol. Now he can't. He won't be able to read me stories either. Granddad told me about the Pitt once, how he saved loads of children. Lots of people died. That's when he told me everyone dies. Not until their a lot older though." Her son's look was more thoughtful than sad, wise beyond his years, knowledgeable beyond others his own age. Still she saw the beginnings of tears in his youthful azure eyes.
"I'm sorry darling you can't. He was sent to Steel… His funeral was yesterday. You know what Brotherhood funeral's are like don't you?" He nodded meekly, his eyes now filling up with tears yet not releasing them.
"Yes mom I remember Scribe Rothchild's. He was granddaddy best friend. At least they'll get to talk to each other again. How does fire return them to steel though?" That was a philological question no nine year old would of even thought to ask. Apart from her own children. Sarah stumbled at her words at first.
"…Well…It's… well… The Brotherhood of Steel was made in fire okay honey? The nuclear fires of the great war. Our history stretches back to those years. The alloy Steel, can only be made in great heat as well. Both where made in fire so both return to Steel through those flames." James was taking the newly acquired information in, she knew this because of the look in his water laden eyes. Her son was analysing the data and storing it. When he was older his mind would be a hive of knowledge. Sarah had also realised that had been the first time she'd explained the meanings of the Brotherhood crematoria to anyone. For it to be to her son was unsettlingly to say the least.
"So… why where the Steeler's tribe of the Pitt called that?" She had no clue to the answer that question. Sarah laughed gently, breaking her aura of masked grief. Such a random question. Her head shook whilst replying.
"I don't know. I really don't. Maybe you could ask one of the Scribes… or maybe your father. He knows random stuff like that." His smile returned and still the tears had yet to fall. James was coping far better than she'd ever done. Strong and wise. Both like Chris and her own father Owyn.
"Where is Maria? Does she know granddad's gone to Steel?" He had said the latter question thoughtfully and with an unorthodox maturity. The former was one of loneliness and childlike worry however. Her children had never been separated before. Not for over a few hours at least. Sarah calmed his anxiety.
"Maria's fine dear and… she knows too. Your sisters doing her evening exercises now. Come on lets go and watch." Her young cub scampered out of the bed. His eagerness in wishing to see his sister was heart-warming.
"She's running around? I want to see this! Have you seen Maria run, mom? She's rubbish!" Again she laughed.
"That's an awful thing to say James! If she hears you I wont be responsible for her actions okay? Now lets go, your Pipboy's on the desk. We can give Maria her's too." Those Pipboy's had been a surprise. Amata truly… loved her children. A large part of her happened to be infuriated at that, yet a small part only felt sorrow. It was her choice and she chose wrongly. Sarah had seen the pain in the Overseer's eyes before departing. Amata would live that fateful past decision everyday.
She loves them all. Chris, James even Maria, no matter how much she looks like me.
And she could never have any of them. Maria and James were hers. She had carried them for nine months. The part of Chris which loved Amata had also died the day the vault doors of 101 had closed a second time. Sarah broke her own musings. It was neither the time nor place.
"James you know I love you right?" Sometimes it was best to voice her emotions. This was such a time Sarah believed.
"Of course I know! Don't be silly. I love you too. Come on lets go laugh at Maria." What a pleasure it was to see her children once more. Both of them together. Sarah felt lukewarm drops of moisture flowing along both her cheeks.
"Mom? Why are you crying?" She was crying, Sarah had only just realised. Tears of Joy and Sorrow. Sarah the mother replied.
"Because I am." She playfully stuck out her tongue and smiled at her own non-answer. Then before leaving her quarters hugged her little James in a warm, loving embrace.
'Woah now. This here's Republic territory. Now I'll give you one more chance before I blow your brains out.'
- Pacificator Lucas Simms.
Big Town Medical Centre: Military Ward. 20.19 EST.
"…and then he shot him in the foot! It was hilarious, I assure you Malcolm. Still it's probably one of those 'you should have been there' kinds of moments." Her voice relaxed him or maybe it was the Med-x, he'd not been entirely sure today. Yet Pacie… who he was now calling Vicky had been as constant as the morphine. She'd been at his bedside for the past five hours or so, leaving only briefly for refreshment. Her company was most welcome. Very, welcome…
"Is there something on my face? You're staring at it." Malcolm mentally cursed himself. He'd been looking at her once again, damn these drugs! He calmed his inner argument. Something witty he'd need to say, something that would make her laugh.
"I was staring miss Victoria? Well, I'm the one bedridden miss. Maybe I was staring, I can't look at much really. See these curtains here? Not very pleasing too look at, the cracked paint of them walls over there, not good enough either and well you…" He left the rest unsaid. His roguish smirk also returned. One he'd not donned in many years, yet had done so multiple times over the past two days. Half of him was still shouting out the folly in his new found actions, it told the wearied Regulator this would only end in heartache, he listened not to those cautions. Still they plagued him and sometimes… sometimes they took hold of him. Only when Victoria wasn't in his company however. Her voice was heard once again.
"Well aren't you the charmer, still aren't you supposed to be stealing glances at a pretty young woman, not staring aimlessly?"
"Miss… I steal nothing, I ain't a thief. My hands are clean. Remember its' you that brought up 'pretty young woman'. I'm entirely guiltless." She let out a light laugh, then raised her eyebrows quizzical.
"And what about yesterday? You where entirely guilty then. 'Miss Pacie… that's a wonderful name, lovely like… you.' or did you not say that?" Malcolm chuckled at her attempted impression of him. Awful was not the word. Still she was correct about that. He had uttered that yesterday along with a lot of other things…
"Well, I can't be denying that miss. Got a mighty fine memory don't ya? I suppose I did say that." Victoria's brows where still quizzically placed.
"You suppose?"
"I suppose, I do." Again she let out a laugh and shook her head. Her eyes then went to the floor for a few moments. When the female Regulator turned back to him, some of the warmth in her features had disappeared, concern replaced it. Malcolm pretended not to notice.
"Senior Doctor 'Red' say's you'll be out by tomorrow, her rather liberal usage of Stimpack's has closed your wound rather well. Are you feeling okay?"
He glanced sideways to his injured shoulder, a bandage was still placed upon it. No blood or plasma had soaked through which could be seen. Malcolm had noticed how quickly his skin, tendons and muscle had regenerated whenever his wound was being newly cleaned. It had appeared ungodly. Yet Stimpack's where made by man and God had made men, maybe the Lord wouldn't mind. Still it was only his position as Regulator to the Steel Chairman of the Republic that he'd been given so much in medical resources. Surely others less fortunate than he could have used them. Malcolm felt they had been wasted upon him. He would have recovered anyway, it would have just taken longer.
"Indeed miss Victoria, I'm fine. I'll be up on my feet again tomorrow. My armour needs a good patchin' up though."
"Just Victoria." a grin came across Malcolm's face. She reciprocated also, with slightly humoured annoyance written across her eyes and lips.
"Fine, Victoria." A look of relief shone through her eyes. He need a question to ask now, a serious one. For it looked like their past hours talk involving previous adventures and humorous stories had come to an end.
"So you're a Steel Regulator now too? Been a while since I've been with a Regulator… I mean worked with a Regulator." He inwardly cringed at his Freudian slip.
"Well Will's a good man…however I don't believe he's your type." Her ever constant mischievous smirk once again appeared. Victoria had both a innocent and dirty side, it was rather confusing but Malcolm didn't mind, of course she had heard his first choice of words, the young regulator would have been deaf not to. Despite himself he felt his cheeks starting to burn. Thankfully Vicky didn't carry on that line of conversation. His Helena had been a Regulator… maybe Victoria had taken it in that context. Maybe sub-consciously that was the context he had said it in. Neither of them had spoke of the events of yesterday, lest it lead to anguish.
"What are the duties of Steel Regulator's? Hopefully its more than babysitting." A question he could answer. It was open-ended like his original duties.
"Anything miss. I can do anything that leads to the betterment of this fine Republic and for Justice. The Chairman didn't order me to mind his children, I offered to do it. Suppose that might come as a surprise to you but there it is. I…well we are Regulators of the Republic compared to just Regulators of the Capital Wastes. Still Mister Lancaster can order us about. It's always to do with Reg business though." She grinned at his last words.
"Regulator business?"
"Yes miss. Regulator Republic business."
After that particular statement they fell into another conversation about their first encounter and how he had been oblivious to his own assignment. They spoke for what seemed an hour but the minute hand on the Brotherhood clock attached to the military ward's paint cracked and splintered walls only passed from five to eight. Fifteen minutes had gone by. It was then that Doctor Red returned, no doubt for another injection or a change of his rather still clean looking bandage.
"Mister Raymond you have another visitor." The seasoned Doctor then turned her attention towards Victoria.
"Paciencia, still hear I see? You've had a good nights sleep this time I hope." The woman to his side nodded sheepishly.
"Of course Doctor. Do you wish me to leave now as another visitor is coming?" Malcolm hoped she wouldn't. Other than Vicky, the only other person to speak to was Doctor Red or the Medical Scribe. The Steel Regulator didn't even know her last name however considering how little he saw of either of them over the course of an entire day.
"No it's fine Paciencia. It involves you too." That got his thoughts moving. Firstly, there was the Pacie thing, why did she just not use her real name Victoria with everyone? It was a good name, nothing to be ashamed of. Secondly who in hell's name could this visitor be. If it was Will, doctor Red would of just informed them. Yet the thirty something year old woman had not.
"Shall I send him in?" Malcolm nodded briefly. She beckoned their visitor to enter. Informing this particular male to also keep the noise down.
It was a gentleman he'd never imagined to see here.
Hell, the guy doesn't even like me.
"My, my Malcolm and my fine future wife. How are you Pacie. Looking sweet and oh so tasty." Vicky's face seemed to appear momentarily sickened at those words. It was soon gone however, replaced with a vapid yet venomous tongue and icy irritated eyes. It was difficult to describe fully, yet the lack of concern and the seriousness of threat in her voice was amusing, yet completely contradictory.
"Oh… it's you. Artemas why can't you fly off into the sunset with your Angela, I'm sure she'd like that. Now shut up before I hurt you. Unless you want a broken arm or two? Then Angela would need a new man or… woman. I'm sure you couldn't pleasure her without the use of either hand's or finger's." Philip Artemas looked dumbstruck at that. His mouth opened and closed numerous times, neither words nor gasps coming out. Finally the Lancer-Knight found his vocabulary again.
"Noted my lady." After that he attempted to pay Victoria no mind at all.
He's not been brought down a peg, Vicky's just taken his legs from under him.
Artemas' attention now lay on him. His face serious and dutiful, the look a Brotherhood member on patrol should be like.
"The Steel Chairman has work for you and your new Regulator… colleagues. Angie and me have been flying everywhere today, I can't complain. We'll be airborne tomorrow as well. Our next stop's: Annesplace. We're leaving at midday. Doctor Red told me you'll be ready then so that's good. Otherwise Sentinel Lancaster would have allowed the use of the Brotherhood Bio-gel. Seriously not many get that treatment, even our honorary members. He and little Maria have brought some gifts for you too. New armour from the Sentinel that's in my 'bird. I've got Maria's here, this is from her." Artemas then walked towards his bedside, opposite to where Victoria sat and gave him a small folded piece of paper, with a series of pictures and coloured writing upon it. A get well soon card.
"The little sweetie did it just over two hours ago, may God keep her innocent and protected. She only thinks you'll got a bit of the Redcheek flu though." These where the times he liked Artemas, he was a religious man like he. Yet he hide it well sometimes. Very well.
"Amen to that Philip. Amen to that." Malcolm uttered.
"I'll take my leave Malcolm, see you tomorrow. Miss Islington." Knight Artemas nodded once then strode off.
"Well, talk about personality disorders Malcolm. Still all fun and games. I must have scared the living day lights out of the poor sap though. A Shame. It was quite funny to begin with yet I dislike his drooling lecherous persona. What do you have there? Is it from one of those children? The Wanderer's young girl?"
"That it is miss. That it is." Young Maria, how he missed her and James also. Still she was now safely in the Citadel, James would soon be too if he wasn't already. He opened the card and began to read it quietly to himself.
Dear Mally
I am in the Castle now. Mommy is the Elder person and Granddad has gone to Steel.
I miss him.
James is on his way to the Castle now and Daddy has gone to be leader of the kingdom.
I miss them too.
Mommy says your ill and that you got the Redcheek. Coughing and sneezing all the time. All over the place and everything.
Get well soon.
I miss you loads and loads.
Please come and visit.
I miss you.
With lots and lots and lots of love.
Maria.
PS. Can you carry me, next time I do running. I have to do it in a few minutes and I don't want too. My feet will hurt!
PSS. Not until your better though! Doctor Maria's orders!
PSSS. I'm a Squire now too. That mean's something! I don't know what but its important.
...
Those words lifted Malcolm's already joyous spirit. He looked back towards Vicky and saw a large grin on her face.
"It looks like you have a young lady in your life mister Malcolm. How adorable." The bedridden Regulator chuckled at that.
"That I do. Got me wrapped around her little thing she has. And hell, I don't care." His eyes stayed upon Victoria's features, they looked at one another for a few moments then shifted gazes. That had been a rarity. A new thought appeared in his mind, upon looking at the female Regulator. This one was quashed however by his logical half, the half of him that held better judgement. Malcolm wouldn't go near that road, not for a long, long while. Being a Protector of children was enough.
'Cry "Havoc," and let slip the dogs of war'
- William Shakespeare. Julius Caesar.
Wednesday 8th July 2294: 09.15 EST. The Citadel Perimeter: Potomac Vertipad.
It was raining. This was the first thought that had come to Casdin's mind upon venturing outside. This rain was rare however, for it was radiation free. An exceptional weather condition indeed. Yet, something that was happening more and more often. Even so he could count on both hands how many times rad-free water had fallen from the sky this year. Nine, including today.
The heavy drops of rain pelted his newly issued E-1 plasma rifle. The dripping water running off the luminous green tipped barrel gave it a sickeningly radiant glow.
The brunt of this Aquatic onslaught however was borne by his recently equipped T-60f Power Armour. Casdin was the first to be surprised at being given one of the Brotherhood's crowning achievements of technology. Close to their own achievement. Blueprints and Power Armour from the Enclave had helped in its manufacturing, alongside attained T-60a pre-war prototypes. Yet this suit itself was Brotherhood made.
It had been five minutes since their mustering to the Citadel Vertipad's. An extension of the Brotherhood fortification and to the right of the Bastions entrance, it lay outside of the main structure yet was as well defended as everywhere else. Paladin Casdin and the other members of his re-joined Brotherhood of Steel section stood motionlessly. They all waited for Knight Captain Dusk to give the go ahead to board the trio of VTOL's which had now landed for them.
That was the second thing that came to his mind. Casdin had never flown before, the former Protector felt rather apprehensive about this transportation. Still there was no need for worry, he would overcome this obstacle like any other, he'd adapt to it and then he'd make it work for him.
To his right where the as of yet un-breached walls of the Citadel. In the other direction lay the Potomac snaking across the horizon towards the northwest. Ripples from the incessant splashes of raindrops where in abundance across the length and breadth of the river, these small compounded orbs of hydrogen and oxygen bombarded the waterway continuously and with an unrelenting ferocity. Like the London blitz in the second great war before the bombs fell or the Destruction of Seoul in the mid-21st Century by Communist China and their puppet state in North Korea. It seemed never ending, almost infinite.
Fortunately, there was no death in this barrage of water, there was life. A further renewal Casdin noted.
Even the weather is changing for them.
The first Maxson would have been amazed at such an achievement, if Casdin could have comprehended the Founder's thought processes that is. He couldn't, yet he was amazed at it. That was enough.
Powered Helmets suddenly turned. Knight Captain Dusk had arrived, her armoured headgear cradled between her left arm and side armour. Her hair was drenched with this rare downpour yet it appeared not to concern her in the slightest. Another Knight followed closely behind her, his helmet also yet to be equipped. Arthur Maxson. Casdin would never forget that face. He was reminded of his duty to the Brotherhood and his unofficial mission to keep that man safe and above all, alive. Thankfully this member of the Maxson dynasty had a son. The line would endure much like the Brotherhood of Steel had, from years to decades to centuries and hopefully to millennia.
"Right, listen up brothers. We're moving out in two but before we go, I'd like you all to meet our new Paladin. Congrats Paladin Maxson… you've made the grade. Steel preserve him." The same honorific's flew across the rain swept perimeter, he joined in also. After that Dusk continued what Casdin believed to be her pre-mission speech. Her voice traveling well over the rain.
"Anything you've forgotten, get it now. If any of you need a potty break you better get it done quick, we aren't stopping until we reach Fort Bannister… and I'm certainly not having any of you piss outta these Vertibird's. Then again, with everyone in Power Armor, I'd like to see you try!" She held her voice for moment to garner the muffled laughter coming from her Helmet equipped subordinates.
"You all remember the brief from yesterday, I'm not gonna tell you all again. There's twenty one of us. We're splitting into three teams. Guardian unit… you'll be under my direct command. Paladin Maxson and Pal… Paladin Casdin with me. Knights. Kendrick you're up, Hardshaw and Schmitt come on down. Junior Knight Vargas you're with me too. Step on up. Say hello to Hera, she's gonna be your 'bird for this morning. Now Knight Sergeant Gunny's…"
Dusk's allocation of his brothers and sisters continued. He paid rapt attention.
Paladin Hoss… someone he'd known from before the rift and break-up of the Brotherhood. He was placed in Knight Sergeant Gunny's 'Ripper' unit, yet another brother he'd once serviced with and would service with yet again. His former Outcast brethren Rococo Rockfowl had been assigned to Knight Sergeant Kodiak's 'Bear-eater' unit along with the Ramos child. A Junior Knight now. He'd been three years of age on the date of the schism. Kodiak's place of birth was at the Pitt, yet he knew him too. As he also knew of the name 'Vargas'. His father Star Paladin Ferdinand Vargas had been of the few older children of the wastes to be brought into the Brotherhood during the Traitor bear's war. He was the only exception in the cleansing of Maxson. The only child over three to survive, a son of one of the Bear's military colonels. The Paladin shook the past away from himself, he once again returned to the present.
One thing Casdin realised was his knowledge of the other last names in this section or in this case, his lack of. He knew of no one else. Strangers all.
This was the third major thought that had come to his mind. The former Protector had realised these where the only names he knew, it made him unorthodoxly anxious.
The Knights now in the Guardian unit would have been wasteland born or had fathers that were wastelander's. All these non-steel born carried the mark of a member of the Brotherhood though. An unseen aura of sorts around them. They all had it. Still it would take time for him to get used too.
"…Guardian into Hera, Ripper's! It's Hades for you. Bear-eater's hopefully Aphrodite's gives you some cheap thrills before we hit landfall at Manassas. Now lets move people!"
And so Casdin did as he was ordered. Hera was around ten metres away now, each of his brothers where now travelling in the direction of their allocated aircraft.
"Steel protect and preserve you sir." It had come from Rococo, one of the rarities in this section. A fellow former Outcast and a friend. He was now walking alongside of him.
"And to you… Knight. Keep your head down and may our aim always be true. To Victory."
"Same to you sir… Paladin. At least Maxson is with you. Better to have the best of the brotherhood protecting it's legacy." Casdin smiled gently at that, it being hidden from sight by his T-60f equipped helmet. He was not a man for such frivolities. Yet former Defender Rockfowl's faith in him would not be misplaced.
"I will, now you best get to your Vertibird. Mine's here." At that his old comrade nodded. His Power Helmet barely moving in acknowledgment but Casdin saw.
Hera lay in front of him now, Knight Captain Dusk and two others were already aboard.
"Get the hell in Paladin. Let's show me what those eighteen years of exile have done to those battle skills of yours." His Knight Captain again. At least she wasn't stumbling upon the word 'Paladin' now.
"Yes ma'am." he ventured onto the aircraft, his new power armour making none of his joints ache at the step up. A seat was taken. His remaining brothers and sisters also found their seats. Dusk made her final order on Citadel ground-side.
"Knight Pilot. Take her up. Fort Manassas and make it quick." The Knight Captain pressed a lit amber button to the side of the lower entrance point. It began to rise. The craft's duel rotor's also began their deathly uniformed spinning. A duet of composite metal's dancing in the torrential, hammering rain. His stomach turned ever so slightly. A seconds feeling of weightlessness went over him. Paladin Henry Casdin was now airborne.
"All checks green. Knight Captain we're good to go. We are now in flight, ladies and gentleman." The Brotherhood Lancer-Knight and pilot seated in the cockpit had confirmed his suspicions.
Now it was time. He shook off his apprehension, this was a far more awe-inspiring and memorable event than merely flying for the first time. It happened to be the first mission for his re-united Brotherhood, for good or ill. Casdin would do his utmost to make sure his Elder and Sentinel's faith had not been misplaced.
Authors Notes.
1. There are 50 seats in the Council Congress and Forty seven Representatives (so far). The other three seats are for the Steel Chairman and Council Speaker. One chair is empty. This being for the Representative who happens to be Premier. For they are Representatives of their own settlements and Premier's of the council therefore they seat in the Premier Representatives chair.
2. The Standing up and asking Questions is very similar to how the UK MP's in the House of Commons speak to our Prime minister in Prime Ministers Questions which is normally on a Wednesday. Sometimes those conversations are… heated.
3. Steel Sovereignty Bill of 2286 cemented the Brotherhood firmly into the Republic. It also gave Brotherhood members the ability to command CRsec forces. As stated in a previous chapter. Knight's outrank Captain's. Major's however outrank Knights but not Paladin's. Knight Captains can command any officer of the Colonel rank and below, while Star Paladin's, Sentinels and the Elder can command any rank, apart from Generals, only the Steel Chairman can command them. It also kept the Brotherhood separate from the Capitol Republic Military, hence the 'Sovereignty' part.
4. Representative Handel is Knock Knock from Little Lamplight. She'll be about thirty one years of age now. Her husband Peter is Squirrel from Little Lamplight. A scribe of the Brotherhood as I've stated. He's thirty years of age.
5. Seagrave Holmes is Bryan Wilks step-father because… I put him and Vera Weatherly together. I know in fallout 3 she kept brushing him off but he became Premier and well, she changed her tune soon after that. ;)
6. Crofton, Maryland. It holds the same name as the present day version. It's the closest CR settlement to Annesplace.
7. A 'Rad-el snake' is a post war Rattle Snake. The ones in D.C come mostly come from southern Canada and the Mississippi, they are of different snake species and sub-species, all joined together through Radiation, FEV and interbreeding. They're also a lot bigger now. However they mostly keep to grassed, savannah or forested areas. They are now being sighted more and more in the north of D.C. The Sentinels of Oasis and the Oasis Guardians generally go on Snake hunts to kill the reptilian beasts in their hallowed forests.
8. Defensibility Act of 2285. After the Raven incursions, the Council and the Brotherhood realised their power alone could not defend the new Republic, therefore the CRsec was born. It also had numerous other clauses such as the one in regards to CR settlements attacking each other. The BoS, supported by the Capitol Republic Military would be sent in to halt any aggression. The aggressor would then be assaulted and a new government would be placed there. A democratic one. With a governor of the settlement who would be voted in and representatives that would also be voted in. This system of governance is used by Lyons Tower and other smaller settlements. The majority still hold their own domestic governments however.
9. Vultures are pretty similar to the present day variant just a fair bit bigger. One of the few remaining species of birds in the Capitol Wastes along with Ravens, crows and Pigeon's.
10. The Steeler Tribe of the Pitt is a American Football reference. They were enslaved by the Raiders of the Pitt and those that were not effected by the Troglitic Degeneration Contagion where freed in the scourge. Most didn't survive. Many of the children saved who would soon become Brotherhood members came from this tribe. Are they still a tribe now or part of a new Pitt city state? Hmmm.
11. Redcheek flu. It's the common cold. A bit stronger now however.
12. Dusk's team is her and two Knight Sergeants plus Six Paladins, Ten Knights and Two Junior Knights. Three teams of seven.
KCDus JK = 7
KSGunn JK = 7
KSKodia = 7
Hopefully that 'illustration' shows how this section has been broken up.