Chapter Twelve: Underground Facility

The elevator opened onto a long metal sided corridor. Astha raised an eyebrow in askance. Virgil smiled. "This is the main corridor. We bring a lot of equipment through here, and we didn't want to have to replace the walls very often." The hall went left and right, with a branch to the front. Walsh bowed and gestured them to the forward direction. "If you'll come this way, I'll show you the control center for our production and test facilities."

The hall opened into a large observation dome. Astha gave an internal whistle of admiration. She wasn't a technology expert, but even she could see these computers were state of the art. The front of the room was all windows, allowing her to look out over a vast collection of workstations and conveyor belts. "So, what's this section?"

"This is where we manufacture ship engines. The programming labs are on the far side, through those doors." He gestured. "Here we build things. One corner of this space is also designed for testing new programs and engine designs. There are a variety of tests to run before we even consider releasing a new technology." The pride for his people was evident in his voice and in his eyes. One hand rested lightly on a computer console, as if he weren't even aware of it, a curiously possessive gesture.

Constantine, Abel, stepped forward. "It's impressive. Very different from what I…what I thought." Astha smiled, noticing the caution in his voice. She thought Walsh might be offended, but he nodded slightly, approving the caution. "Would you mind terribly, telling me what you're working on right now? If it's not supposed to be secret."

"Not at all. We're currently working on a new density alloy, with carbon fibers interlaced in a special fabrication…." Astha tuned out. Her partner looked absolutely fascinated but really, technology was not her primary interest. She simply stared out of the facility, listening with half an ear while the talk wandered over design specifications and tolerances.

An hour later, Abel shook his head. "This is truly an impressive facility. I'd no idea it had developed so well. And yet…it's all underground, you said? Even the food supplies and so forth?"

"That is correct. The scientists who work here in the Technological Center are actually part of a much larger group. Of the rest of the population, some take care of providing food or clothing or other necessary items. Others provide joint care for children or families. Everyone works together to create a safe environment. The living areas are in another part of the facility."

"Truly amazing. If you don't mind, I'd very much like to see the rest of this place. It sounds absolutely fascinating. Do you think you could give us a tour?"

It was the perfect opening, and Virgil Walsh took it as smoothly as if they'd planned this for years. "I'd be delighted to show you around. However, I'm afraid in some parts of the complex, some of the back tunnels haven't been maintained as well as they should have. If I could have your permission my lord, I'd like to request someone meet us there. I have a group of people working on the back ways, and they should be able to guide us safely around the dangerous areas."

Abel nodded. Walsh strolled over to a computer console and tapped out a code. After a moment, Astha's ears caught the slight hiss of a communication channel opening. Walsh nodded to the screen. "Vanessa. You're doing well?" Astha couldn't hear the other person reply, but Walsh relaxed. "Good to know. I'm bringing some guests into the facility, and I want you to meet them. We'll meet in the usual area. I'd appreciate it if you came unarmed, and without the whole force at your back." Something made him pause. He sighed audibly. "I promise, it's nothing serious. They're just….people I'd like you to meet. And I swear, on the honor of our family, that you'll be very interested in what they have to say. Will you be there?" There was a moment of silence during, which Astha strained to catch the reply. She heard nothing but Walsh nodded again. "Good. We'll meet you there." He clicked off the connection, then turned and bowed. "My lord Ambassador, my lady, please come with me."

Walsh took them back down the hallway, then turned left. As he led them down the metal corridors, Astha could see doorways here and there. After about the sixth one, she reached forward and tapped their guide on the shoulder. "What are all these doors?"

Walsh smiled. "Mostly just maintenance and storage rooms, my lady. Some of them have computer banks in them, some lead to sections of the lab equipment so we can do repairs. And some of them are simply older parts of the facility that we don't use, but haven't yet found a reason to renovate."

A few minutes later, they came to another doorway and Walsh turned into it. Light burst around them. Astha blinked in the sudden glare. As her eyes adjusted, she found herself standing on a walkway. In front of her opened a huge space, with walkways and doors everywhere. She stared, eyes wide in amazement. She'd thought Walsh had been joking when he talked about the facility as an underground city, but that was exactly what it was. Row upon row of rooms lined the walls, with at least thirty floors that she could see. The doorways were unevenly spaced, indicating differing sizes, and she was willing to bet there were multiple rooms beyond most, if not all of the openings. Here and there were darker spaces indicating hallways similar to the one they had just exited. Though the entire area she could see was made of metal plating and smooth-polished surfaces, here and there a bright patch of color marked a paint job, or bright curtains. She also thought she could spot signs here and there, though across the way, it was rather difficult to see. Walkways crossed from one side of the open area to the other, and looped around to form a huge oval. Lights hung at measured intervals, providing illumination for the entire area. Astha blinked. "Impressive."

"Thank you." Walsh smiled, then gestured upward. "The top two levels are maintained for the purposes of growing food and maintaining water supplies and such. We have gardens, and also livestock facilities there, as well as paths that can be used to go to the surface. There are also routes for the traders we receive, of things such as news, or items that aren't easily manufactured here, like books. It's invaluable for getting learning materials for the children. The lower levels are mostly where we keep the generators for electric power, heat sources and so forth. We also have some warehouses down there to store things."

"And everything else is housing?" Astha looked around. If even 75 percent was housing, that was a lot of people.

"Mostly. Every level has a section of stores. There's always at least two or three food stores, and clothing stores. And of course, miscellaneous trade stores. Beyond that, every level has a specific thing they specialize in. Some have book stores, some have special clothing, some have music….the variety is astonishing."

"I guess so." Astha looked up and down the huge structures. "Seems like it could make it a little inconvenient."

Walsh shrugged. "Well, it can be a little difficult at times. However, it also helps create a reason for mixing. After all if everything is available on one floor, there'd be no reason for people to move around much. I've always thought it was important for these people to know each other. It helps them work together better. And we do have several elevators and staircases connecting the floors."

"What about the housing? Is it sufficient? Do you have many problems with it?" The question came from Abel, who was leaning on the rail and staring at the expanse with a surprised and somewhat pensive expression.

"At present, we have more than enough space. My father had the area expanded some, but even then, it was spacious enough. Room and suite sizes differ of course, but it's usually not hard to find space for any given family. We try to give larger families larger rooms and suites, but for the most part, I really don't have much to do with it. They find their own housing, bargain with each other on the space, and though I've never had much to concern myself with, I suspect there's a fairly extensive information network on where apartments are. And there's a fair number of empty spaces. Groups on each level usually get together to renovate them for use. Several of them are used as child care centers, for the occasional orphan or a child who needs a caretaker while their parent is at work. We also have schools, and other group facilities."

Abel smiled. "That's good." His head bowed slightly. "I'm…truly impressed. It sounds like you have everything well in hand."

"Perhaps. But these people miss their freedom to move around. And even as well organized as this place is…" Walsh looked over the expanse. "There's something important…about being able to look at green grass, and see real, unfiltered moonlight, or an honest sunset. As much as I love this place, that fact is still true."

"I understand." Abel looked out over the space. "But still…it's a very special place. I'd like…." He smiled sheepishly. "Well, I suppose it's a bit of an imposition, but I really would like to be able to walk around and talk to the people here. I'd like to know them better." He looked sideways at Walsh. "Especially, since you're asking me to make a case for them in the Empire."

Virgil Walsh smiled, an honest open smile. "Actually, Your Excellency, I was rather hoping you'd ask me exactly that." He bowed. "I specifically asked the Queen for a full night, so I could show you as much of the facility as you'd care to see."

Astha wasn't much for touring cities, but even she wanted to see what this place was like. It was so far outside any experience she'd ever had. She could see the joy, and excitement brimming in her companions blue eyes. Abel gestured. "Well then, I'd be honored if you'd take us around. However, Lord Walsh, there is one thing I will insist on for our visit." Walsh raised a puzzled eyebrow. "We're guests in your home, and this is a rather informal trip. So, for the moment, I would like you to call me by name."

"As you wish my lord Constantine." Astha noted the usage of his imperial name, but decided not to comment. Walsh saw the look in Abel's eyes and shrugged. "Well, I can't abandon all good manners. However, if we're going to be speaking informally, feel free to use my given name as well." A spark of amusement lit his eyes. "You'll find that no one stands much on formality. The children here, especially, will all want to call you by name. I trust this is not a problem for you, my lady?"

Well she wasn't used to being called by name. She saw the amusement in Abel's eyes, probably remembering their first time working together, when she'd thrown him into a wall for calling her Astha. On the other hand, if he was willing to go along with it, she really didn't have any reason to be annoyed. She shrugged. "I've no problems with it."

At Walsh's suggestion, they took an elevator to the bottom level of the inhabited sections, then began working their way back up. They strolled along the walkways, with their guide pointing out stores, or care facilities. Here and there a shop-keeper or a resident would spot them and wave. Quite a few of them actually came out to greet him. At one point, a bakery owner actually came out with a tray of a dozen sugar cookies. He handed them to the young noble, and Walsh gave him a coin, and the man went back inside. Walsh turned and offered them both the tray. "That man has some of the best cookies in the entire city. He's rather famous for them. When I want to have a function in my home topside, I usually come down and purchase my baked goods and dessert from him. Not always, of course, a governor must be fair, but they really are excellent." Abel took three. Astha took one and nibbled it gently. It really was extremely good, so much so that she reached over and took another. It occurred to her walking along behind him and chewing on the pastry, that whatever his people said about the facility, they clearly respected and liked the man who ran it.

They were about halfway up when Astha spotted something odd. One of the doorways up ahead was marked with a scrawled white and gold cross. Though clearly a child's handiwork, there was something proud and rather happy about it. She pointed. "That's a pretty interesting symbol there."

Walsh looked. "Oh yes. This is actually a rather famous place, even outside the ghetto." He smiled. "During the turbulence a few years back, the Pope got lost and wandered into the residential area here. One of our young ones brought him here, to the care center, to rest and relax. I've heard it made an impression on him. Certainly, it made an impression on the residents."

"Indeed. I heard rumors that the Pope's unofficial support of Methuselah originated from his time here. There are even rumors that his time here may have been what brought his change in demeanor. I heard he's become more confident since that incident."

"I've heard that as well." Walsh smiled. "In truth, I was rather skeptical. But then he sent a gift and a thank you card….and that pretty much confirmed it."

The doorway of the rooms in question flew open suddenly, and a young girl came flying out of it. "Lord Walsh, you're back again." The girl, approximately twelve or so, was a sturdy figure with wide excited brown eyes and hair tied back in ponytails. She came flying up the walk, coming to a stop abruptly as she noticed Astha and Abel. "Oh, and you brought people with you. Are these new friends?"

"Yes they are. They're my friends, and I was showing them around so they could become friends with people here." Virgil held out a hand to the child, and she took it in a friendly grip, much like a child with an uncle would do. "How are you doing Anita? Is everything going well?"

"Yeah. Jerry and Sharron are letting me do more of the stuff around the center, and I get to take care of all the pets and stuff. We have a whole colony of rabbits now!" She grinned.

"I see. Well, since I'm here I thought I'd introduce your caretakers to my friends. Are they here?"

"Yeah. And I bet they'd be happy to see you again. It's been ages since you came down." She looked past him suddenly, to where Abel and Astha stood. "And of course, and friend of Mr. Walsh is welcome." She came around him and walked up to Abel. "I'm Anita."

Abel smiled. "My name is Constantine. And my friend here is Astharoshe."

"Those are strange names."

"Anita." Walsh's voice was more amused than disapproving, but the girl spun around with a guilty look on her face. Walsh took her hand. "Run in and tell Jerry and Sharron that I'm bringing in guests. We'll be right there." The girl disappeared back into the doorway. "She's an excitable youngster but doesn't always remember her manners. I hope you weren't offended."

"Not at all." Abel was staring after the girl with an amused expression. "She rather reminds me of the way my sister behaves at times."

Astha twitched. She almost said something, but then bit her lip. They'd already mentioned that he was related to the Imperial family, but they didn't know his exact relation. It wasn't actually much of an issue. She simply wasn't used to the casual way he spoke of the Empress. She supposed it was one of those things she'd have to adjust to.

After a moment more, a young man arrived at the door. He was medium height, with dark close-cut hair, and wearing loose linen pants and a button up shirt, open at the collar. "Lord Walsh. Please come in." He gestured inside. "Welcome to our home. It's not much, but we're always willing to receive guests." He extended a hand, which Abel and Astha both shook. "And you're friends of Lord Walsh."

"Yes. My name is Constantine, and this lady is my associate, Astharoshe. We're visitors, and Lord Walsh was indulging us and showing us around the place."

"Well, you're welcome here anytime. But come on in."

The inside was a large room, filled with children, play equipment, and on the far side, beds. On the far side, a young woman with long blond hair and a faded blue dress, partially covered by an apron. Her eyes, a light hazel were friendly as she greeted them. Her hands were occupied with an infant, apparently only a few months old. "Welcome back, Lord Walsh. I'm sorry I'm not in a better state, but Gerald here is a wee bit fussy."

"That's all right. It's to be expected, after all."

Abel was practically hovering. "Oh, he's very cute. Is he yours?"

"Yes he is. He's my and Jerry's second child. I'm Sharron."

"It's very nice to meet you."

The group engaged in small talk for a few minutes. Astha wasn't very good at situations like this, so she simply stood back and kept as quiet as possible. While her partner spoke with the residents she took a look around the place.

The room was clean, despite the chaos of children playing on the floor. There looked to be at least a dozen of the kids. A few of them were sprawled out on the mattresses on the far side. The rest of the beds were neatly made with pale linens, each with a sheet, a pillow and a light blanket. On the floor, the rest of the children played with a variety of toys. A few older youths sat in corners with books, or supervised the younger kids at play, joining in the games with cheerful abandon. On the opposite wall, near the beds, another doorway opened. Astha guessed it would lead to cooking facilities, and probably a room for the couple running the place. She noticed Walsh looking at her, and moved to his side. "So…this is one of the child care arrangements you mentioned?"

"It is. Some children are orphans. Some of the children simply come here on a regular basis, while their parents work elsewhere. Anita is their actual daughter, but they tend to treat every child here like their own. They're good caretakers, some of the best we have."

Astha looked around at the smiling, laughing children. "Yeah, I can see that."

A young woman, wearing an outfit similar to Sharron's, emerged from the doorway, followed by a young man with freckles, red-gold hair, and a serious expression. The similarity in features and their large blue eyes made Astha think they might be siblings.

Both of them spotted the silver-haired man speaking to Sharron and Jerry at the same time. The boy's eyes opened wide, and the girl gasped and took an involuntary step forward. "Father?"

The three adults turned. Abel blinked, noticing the young woman's gaze focused on him. "I'm sorry young lady, but I think there's been a mistake." He smiled kindly. "I'm afraid I'm not your father."

The girl blushed and looked away. "I'm sorry sir. It's just…you reminded me of someone I once knew….and I suppose it startled me." She curtseyed lightly. "I'm very sorry if I made you uncomfortable."

Abel shook his head, moving forward so he could stand in front of the two youths. "Not at all. But I'd like it if I could get your names."

"I'm Peter." The young man looked him in the eyes. "She's Wendy. We live here."

"Ah. Well, my name is Constantine, and it's very nice to meet you." He gave them a warm greeting, extending his hand to Peter. "I hope I didn't remind you of someone who troubled you."

"No not at all." The girl, Wendy, smiled up at him with warmth and a trace of affection. "Actually, the man you remind me of…he was a priest back then. But he was very kind to us, even though I was very rude to him. He even protected us and helped us come to live here. But I never really got a chance to apologize for my behavior, or thank him for all his kindness."

"Ah, well. I'm glad I remind you of someone kind." Abel settled down to his knees so he could look her in the eyes. "You said you live here? It seems like a very nice place."

"It is." Wendy smiled at her guardians. "Everyone's been very generous to us. I even have a part time job over at a local grocery store, and Sharron and Jerry let me help out here. When my friends and I first came here, they were very patient with us. We weren't very used to adult supervision."

Astha watched her companion speaking to the two for a moment, then leaned over and spoke softly into Walsh's ear. "You know anything about those two?"

"Indeed. I personally escorted them down here." Walsh's face was thoughtful. "They arrived here on a freighter, they and about six others. According to what they told me, they were street orphans. A scientist named Barry had taken them in at one time." The pale face tightened with disgust. "A rather unsavory individual. According to what the two of them told me he was taking in children and performing experiments on them. The girl seems to have been a particular subject, though she still won't give me the details. I suspect she was badly abused. However, they were eventually left on their own, and the Vatican investigated them. The report I received from the ship that brought them stated their passage had been paid for by two priests, and one of them does match his general description. However things happened, they both indicate a definite affection and gratitude to the men who sent them here."

"I see." Astha mulled over the information. "I hope someone dealt with this Barry."

"Well, I know he was declared deceased. How it came about….I don't much care." Walsh met her eyes. "What I saw when I took those children in for a basic medical exam…." He left the sentence unfinished, but Astha didn't need to hear the words. After a moment, Walsh shook his head. "I suppose it no longer matters. They are here, and they are safe."

They spent a little while longer at the residence, then Walsh ushered them back through the door. They'd walked a fair distance when Astha leaned over and whispered to her companion. "So, did you know those kids?"

"Oh yes. I investigated them as a member of the Vatican. I'm glad they're doing all right." He smiled. "Peter really is growing up into a good man. I always said he would."

Astha snorted. "Honestly, you know the oddest people." She shook her head. "I guess that's just the way you are. I only have one question: Are we likely to meet anyone else you know down here?"

"No, not really. Even if we met the rest of Wendy's friends, I doubt they'd remember me." Abel smiled.

They walked a few more floors, then Walsh took out a watch from one pocket. He examined it for a moment, then clicked it shut and turned to face them. "If you don't mind, I think we should be moving on. There are a few more places I'd like to show you, and the night is getting on. If you'd please follow me." He turned, heading for a corridor branching to the right.