Disclaimer: These aren't my characters. How many more times must I say
this?
Author's Note: Yay! Chapter 10! I am now in the double digits here. I can't believe I made it this far… and that I'm almost done! I apologize this chapter took so long to get up. It took me a while to write. Like I've said, I suck at dialogue, and this chapter has a lot of it. And partway through, I changed Emerson's character. He was going to be a ranting lunatic at first, until it occurred to me that someone like that wouldn't have made it as a general. And finding the motivations behind his reason was really hard…
SALVATION
Chapter Ten
"Your sins would make all of Heaven weep."
Hein spent as much of his free time as he could at the hospital with Aki. Because of her condition, and Gray's own pre-maturity, they were going to be at the hospital for at least a week. Hein couldn't wait until she could come home. When he wasn't visiting, he was helping Dr. Sid and his returned assistants in the lab, or working to ready Aki's apartment for her return. She hadn't had time to do much for Gray, and had thought she'd have a month longer.
All in all, Hein found he was often far too busy to brood over his life as General Hein. Aki was far more important to him.
On the third day after Gray's birth, Hein encountered Dr. Sid in one of the lab rooms where various animals were caged. These animals, Hein had heard, were going to be released in Atlanta. Dr. Sid was staring at the creatures, a worried expression on his wrinkled face.
"What's wrong?" Hein asked, wondering if there was a problem with the animals. He moved closer to the cage, studying them.
Dr. Sid gave a frustrated sigh. "It's the military. They're all a bunch of ignorant, paranoid fools." He crossed his arms and glowered at Hein, who spread his hands placatingly.
"What did we do this time?" Though Hein was officially suspended from the military, he still considered himself on of them. Dr. Sid's verbal attack rankled him. And he'd thought he was finally starting to get along with the old man…
"It's General Emerson. He wants all of his soldiers who are stationed at the terraforming sites to return to Houston."
Hein frowned. "The scientists would still be there. And there aren't any threats to them, right? Are the soldiers there really necessary?"
Dr. Sid pinched the bridge of his nose. "No, there aren't any dangers to the scientists. It's the land itself I'm worried about. Do you know how many people want to visit these sites? How, in their ignorance, these people who have been confined to a barrier city all their lives might accidentally destroy our hard work by frightening the animals, trampling plants, or just grabbing a little something for a souvenir? The soldiers keep away the curious until the site is ready for them. For now, we can't afford to destroy the little we have."
"I see," Hein said quietly. He remembered the hard work that had gone into the Colorado site, though he hadn't participated in it himself.
"And it's not just the soldiers. General Emerson wants all the military equipment back here as well."
Hein stared. "But… that's ridiculous! Can he do that? I thought the Council made these decisions."
"He's fighting the Council. We're meeting tomorrow to discuss the matter." Dr. Sid shook his head slowly. "I don't like to face them alone."
Hein hesitated a moment. "Would you like me to go with you? I might be able to take on Emerson." His lips quirked in a wry grin. "I'm a general too, after all."
Dr. Sid cocked his head, considering. "Perhaps you would be of use after all. You've certainly proven you can bully Emerson's men."
Hein flushed. "That was to save Aki's life!"
"And I'm grateful for it," Dr. Sid interjected before Hein could get angry. "But you have to be careful. The Council… isn't well disposed towards you."
Hein nodded, and turned back to the caged animals. He thrust a finger through the mesh and stroked the soft fur of the closest animal. It whirled around and bit him.
"Argh!" He whipped his hand away, watching the blood trickle down his index finger. "Vicious little beast, isn't it?"
Dr. Sid laughed. "Actually, the rabbits are usually quite friendly. I've never seen them bit anyone before."
Hein pouted. Figures. I survive a war with vicious Phantoms and get wounded by a rabbit. "Guess I lack animal skills."
"I hope your people skills are better," Dr. Sid sad seriously. "Otherwise, tomorrow's Council meeting could be a disaster."
* * *
Aki was holding Gray when Hein went to see her that day. She gave him a sweet smile as he leaned over to kiss her.
"So they finally let you have him, huh?" Hein asked. Gray was sleeping, his small form huddled close to Aki.
"Finally," Aki said, her eyes on her child. "I didn't expect him to be so small."
"Why? You wanted him to be bigger?" Hein arched an eyebrow.
Aki chuckled. Then her gaze fell on Hein's bandaged finger. She was familiar with the wounds on his wrist, but hadn't seen this one before. "What happened to your finger?"
"This?" Hein wouldn't meet her eyes. "I was brutally attacked by a savage, bloodthirsty killing machine. Luckily, I was able to get Dr. Sid out of the way before he was hurt."
"Oh?" Aki asked, her disbelief plain.
"I got bit by a rabbit," Hein said sheepishly.
Now Aki laughed, and Hein was pleased by its strength. She was definitely recovering. Though a few moments later, she winced and grabbed her abdomen with her free hand. "You almost made me bust my stitches," she said a little breathlessly.
"I'm glad you find it amusing," Hein said, his voice faintly petulant. "See if I ever protect you from a horde of man-eating rabbits." Then he sobered. "I'm going to face the Council tomorrow."
Alarm crossed Aki's face. "What? Why?"
Hein wondered why that frightened her. Did the Council have it in for him? "Did Dr. Sid tell you about General Emerson's latest decision?"
Aki scowled and nodded. She settled back on her pillow, careful not to disturb Gray. "The man's an idiot. If the Phantom war was still going on, we'd all be in trouble."
"The man still seems to think the war is going on," Hein said quietly. "They seem to make generals out of the worst people."
Aki had no answer for that. Instead, she said, "Be careful with Emerson. He doesn't like it when people disagree with him. He only obeys the Council because they have power over him. Anyone under him, or a civilian, he won't listen to."
Hein was grateful for the warning. "I'll probably just sit back and listen the whole time. I'm only going as moral support. Apparently, most of the lab staff is intimidated by the military." Aki suddenly yawned, and Hein realized how late it was. "I should let you two get some sleep," he said. "I'll let you know how tomorrow goes."
Aki grabbed his left hand, running her fingers over the scar tissue. "Good luck," she said simply.
"I hope I don't need it," Hein said.
* * *
Hein entered the Council chamber behind Dr. Sid, hoping the Council wouldn't take a good look at him. Aki seemed to think he had a reason to worry about them, after all.
But they didn't seem to recognize him, though an older woman did look at him with a puzzled expression, as if she wasn't certain if she knew him or not.
Hein took his seat beside Dr. Sid, his gaze wandering to the military contingent. General Emerson was already there, he noticed. The general was a middle-aged man with thinning grey hair. He wore an immaculate uniform, and looked every inch the "proper" general. Not like generals Hein had seen in recordings…
The head Council member, Councilwoman Hee, bade General Emerson to begin. The man did, calmly expressing his intention to recall his soldiers to Houston and stating why he thought it was unnecessary for them to continue baby-sitting the scientists.
Hein was surprised by the man's calm manner. From Aki's description, he'd expected Emerson to be a raving paranoid lunatic. It was no wonder the Council was actually listening to what Emerson said.
But would they agree with him? Hein would have said no at first. He still couldn't understand why Emerson was reluctant to station his men and equipment to protect something so important. Emerson kept going on about how this guard duty was a waste of soldiers, how the scientists had their own equipment and didn't need his – never mind the fact that the scientists were actually from a branch of the USMF and therefore entitled to the equipment – Emerson's list went on.
"Long winded, is he?" Hein muttered to Dr. Sid. "Was I like that?"
Dr. Sid, who was only half listening to the familiar argument, snorted. "No. You actually tried to play the Council, manipulating the members to make them see your way. General Emerson just states what he wants and expects everyone to agree with him." Dr. Sid wrinkled his nose. "It makes him easier to manage, actually, since you know what you're dealing with."
"I noticed he hasn't presented a good, solid reason to withdraw his soldiers," Hein commented.
"True, but he's been hassling the Council about this for months, apparently. And while Aki and I were gone, he's gained a foothold because there was no one to argue against him. Some of the members are starting to agree with him."
"Or may agree just to shut him up," Hein grumbled.
"There is that," Dr. Sid said dryly.
General Emerson finished his speech and took a seat. Hein and Dr. Sid focused their attention on the Council members, who were muttering among themselves.
Then Hee asked Dr. Sid to state his reasons for keeping the soldiers and the equipment onsite.
Hein watched Emerson while Dr. Sid spoke. The general was staring at Dr. Sid, a stony expression on his face. Apparently, he wasn't going to change his views, no matter what Dr. Sid said. And even if the Council agrees with Dr. Sid, he still may not let this go. He'll probably do something subtle, like removing the soldiers one at a time, or calling them back for "emergencies" and not letting them return to the site later. That… that's what I would do… Hein pursed his lips. He may not be imaginative enough to talk the Council to his way of thinking, but he's not stupid. He could find a way around all that.
Someone had to put a stop to Emerson's plans now, before the general decided to take matters into his own hands. Emerson wouldn't listen to reason. Someone had to force the issue.
Someone like Hein himself. With a nervous swallow, Hein got to his feet.
* * *
General Emerson was rather pleased with the way things were going. True, the Council wasn't supporting him outright, but he knew at least three members agreed that these sites were a waste of military resources. After all, why would anyone want to be so far from the protection of a barrier city? Here, they had food, water, protection, and access to a permanent power source. At these sites, each of which had cost the taxpayers several million dollars, groups of scientists were wasting more money importing food and running generators, and all for the sake of a few blades of grass!
These scientists were fed, watered, and given military support. They were living the high life while the rest of the cities struggled to recover from Phantom occupation. General Emerson was going to put a stop to that. The human race would leave the barrier cities, but only when they were ready.
And he wanted to be the one who decided when that would be.
Emerson sat through Dr. Sid's scientific lecture, ignoring most of it. He wasn't a scientist; what did he care about all this? And he didn't see how the sites would be damaged if left unprotected. After all, most of the world was destroyed anyway. Emerson couldn't see how it could get any worse.
He let his eyes wander over the Council, noticing how his supporters were shaking their heads as Dr. Sid's attempts. Council members Hee and Drake, however, were listening attentively. They were the members that worried him the most. The New York members hadn't known him very long, and they'd seemed to have developed a distrust for his position, due to Hein's actions.
Hein… Emerson's jaw clenched. Could he really be here? Impossible! And he wouldn't be "saving" Dr. Ross's life if he were, right?
It must have been an imposter. Otherwise, Hein would have made himself known by now.
At least Dr. Ross was temporarily out of the picture. Her status as "savior of mankind" made even Emerson's supporters sit up and take notice of her. Now, though, she'd have a lot on her mind; hopefully too much to concentrate on this folly of terraforming land that was beyond hope.
Emerson's gaze came to rest on the man who had take Aki's place. Where'd the doctor find this one? He doesn't look very scientific. The left side of his face, the part Emerson could see, was scarred, the lips twisted. He wore an eye patch, partially obscured by a long lock of white hair which, as Emerson idly watched, the man irritably brushed back. The rest of his long, curly black hair was neatly combed back, but Emerson thought the man still looked like a ruffian. Could he be a threat to me? Emerson wondered.
There was something about the man that bothered him… Something that Councilwoman Hee seemed to sense as well, judging from her quick glances toward the man.
As Dr. Sid concluded his speech, the man beside him suddenly got to his feet, drawing the attention of the entire chamber. Judging from Dr. Sid's shocked look, this was unplanned.
"Ladies and gentlemen," the man began. His voice sent mutters rippling through the Council members. The unflappable Councilwoman Hee was now staring at the speaker with barely concealed shock. "What General Emerson suggests is foolish. We've been under the barrier cities for too long. It is time now that the human race regains its freedom and helps the planet to recover."
The man turned to fully face Emerson, and the general got his first view of the unscarred half of the man's face. No… It can't be!
"General Hein," Councilwoman Hee's voice cut through the silence Hein's interruption had caused. "We were not informed you were taking part in the meeting. Are you fully recovered from your injuries?"
Hein's stern expression faded, and he looked almost shameful. "No, ma'am. I still have no memory of the last fifteen years of my life. I know only what I found out for myself. I do know enough to realize we shouldn't hide in barrier cities anymore."
He was amnesiac? Interesting… But it seemed his dominating nature hadn't been affected. He had the entire Council chamber's attention.
They're probably all amazed to see him on the side of nature for once. Hell, I'm shocked, too. But will the Council listen to him? He may actually hurt Dr. Sid's credibility. And that's without the Council knowing what I know…
General Emerson narrowed his eyes speculatively.
"The general's arguments are valid. These sites are a drain on the economy," Councilman Harrison said calmly. "They can't yet support life, and no one is allowed to set foot there except the scientists. They're just glorified laboratories for the scientists."
Dr. Sid's lips thinned, but he said nothing. He seemed to be curious where Hein was going to take this.
"Perhaps they may be that way now," Hein agreed. "But I've been to one of these sites, and I have seen how, in the earlier sites, the growth has already spread beyond the initial dimensions. The Earth won't be a barren wasteland forever, and I for one don't intend to stay confined in a city where population will increase and food and shelter will become scarce if we do as General Emerson suggests."
"You would have a population used to our protection suddenly thrust into an unfamiliar environment?" General Emerson asked coldly. "At least here, we can oversee the populace and protect them from danger."
Hein actually sneered, the first expression Emerson had seen that proved he was the same Hein that Emerson remembered. "What danger? You insisted earlier that there was no danger to the scientists staying at the restored sites, and thus didn't need military supervision."
"Dander from within," Emerson snarled. "Without the constant threat of Phantoms, the population is getting restless. Crime has risen. We need the soldiers to police the population and the promise that many people can leave 'eventually' to live in a terraformed area that may not even survive the year just won't solve these problems."
"The military didn't always serve as law enforcers," Hein pointed out. "Why not re-establish a police force? It would be a good way for civilians to start to learn to handle their own problems."
Emerson seethed. Why did Hein have to question him? The man didn't know when to shut up. "My men can handle it," he began. "The civilians can leave the city when they're ready. And it won't be to some little grassland that has to be handled with care."
Hein ignored the last remark. "And who's going to decide when the populace is ready? You?" Hein made a slashing gesture with his hands. "That's what this is about, isn't it? You're losing control over the city, and you don't like it. So you're doing everything in your power to stunt the people's growth, to keep them nice and tame. You don't care about the planet at all."
Emerson went white. Many of the Council members were staring at him now, thoughtful expressions on their faces. Hein cleared his throat.
"I apologize for being so outspoken; I'd only intended to listen," he said to the Council, bowing his head respectfully.
Councilwoman Hee looked faintly shocked. "We have much to discuss," she said finally, with a glance at the other members. "Council shall resume in five days time. In the meantime, General Emerson, you will say nothing to your men." She gave Hein an unreadable look, then left with the rest of the Council.
* * *
"I think you just made an enemy," Dr. Sid said as he rose to his feet. Hein turned towards General Emerson, who was glaring across the room at him.
"Somebody had to stand up to him," Hein said. "If he hadn't been humiliated in front of the Council, he would have found a way to get what he wants without their permission. Now, though, he'll look like a fool – or worse – if he tries that. I'm sorry. I should have asked to speak. I should've have done something like that! He's a general, and I'm a sergeant. I can't believe I did that!"
"I don't think you could help it," Dr. Sid said wryly. "It must be in your nature to be the center of attention."
"Yes, but… The Council hates me, right?" Dr. Sid nodded. "So why did you let me do it? What if I just ruined your chances for further research into restoring the planet?" Hein released his breath in a sharp hiss. "I wouldn't forgive myself."
Hein followed Dr. Sid out of the chamber. "You did what you felt was right," the doctor said finally. "And let me just say, I'm glad you were on our side this time."
"Yes," Hein said softly. But will I always be? I don't want to become General Hein again!
"Excuse me, sir," a voice said behind them. Hein and Dr. Sid turned to see a corporal standing there, his body rigid. "General Emerson requests that you come to his office, sir," the corporal continued, his eyes on Hein.
Hein and Dr. Sid exchanged glances. Now what? Hein wondered. "I'll catch up to you later," he told the doctor, who nodded and left.
Then, with a sense of foreboding, Hein followed the corporal to the general's office.
* * *
General Emerson was sitting at this desk, and he didn't bother to return Hein's crisp salute. Hein stood at attention until the general irritably waved him towards a chair.
"That was quite a show you put on in there," Emerson said flatly. "One wouldn't think you were only a…" He looked at a loss for a moment.
"A sergeant," Hein supplied.
"Right. You went against a superior officer, and faked a rank a few days ago to divert a transport from its mission."
Hein barely restrained his anger. "You would have let Dr. Ross die?" he challenged. "Besides, I am a general, even if I don't remember it."
"You are currently suspended from the military, and are likely to face a court martial for your actions aboard the Zeus Cannon," Emerson snapped.
Hein froze. Court martial? Was that why Aki was hiding him from the Council?
"You have no right to interfere in USMF business. I'm surprised the Council let you speak."
"I had every right to as a representative of the scientific division," Hein began, his voice frosty. "If I hadn't said it, someone else would have. You care nothing for the safety of the planet, only – "
Emerson held up a hand to halt Hein's angry flow of words. "How amusing. You were the same way once. But I suggest you stay out of this. If you do, I'll keep silent about New York City."
Hein blinked. Emerson was threatening him? And why was New York important? "I don't know what you're talking about."
"How convenient," Emerson said with a sickly smile. "I'm talking about the city's downfall. I was stationed in Atlanta at the time, and my men investigated the tragedy. Do you know what we found?"
Hein could only shake his head wordlessly.
"Shortly before the barrier's fall, all the technicians in the barrier control room were arrested. Someone then shut down a sector of the barrier. Now, how many people have the power to do that?" Emerson folded his hands on his desk, his eyes locked on Hein's face.
Hein's blood ran cold. Who would have the power to authorize those arrests? To shut down the barrier? The city's highest ranking officer. General Douglas Hein.
"You lie," Hein said thickly.
"I have the records to prove it, though I've kept them from the Council to avoid panic. What if they knew what a general was really capable of? You killed millions of innocent people. Imagine how the Council will respond to that. You do know the price for treason?"
"No," Hein insisted. "I wouldn't…" It couldn't possibly be true! No one would do something so horrible!
"You should have stayed at the hospital where I left you," Emerson smirked. Hein was barely listening. He lurched to his feet.
"I didn't do it! No one would commit such a vile sin!"
"Your sins would make all of Heaven weep," Emerson stated.
Hein couldn't take it anymore. He rushed to the door, fumbling with the knob. "Think about what I said," Emerson called to Hein's fleeing back.
* * *
He stood in a large area, dark but for the eerie luminescence of the holographic boards.
"Reduce power to Sector 31," he commanded.
"Sir," a voice protested uncertainly, "you do realize that the Phantoms will…?"
Hein scowled. "What I realize, Major, is that we must force the Council to take action against the enemy."
The soldiers around him hurried to do his bidding, and the major watched it all, carefully disguising his terror as he said "Barrier breech in Sector 31, General. They're coming through now."
Hein flashed the major what could almost be called a reassuring smile. The poor man just wasn't bright enough to see why some sacrifices must be made for the greater good. "Oh, I think we can easily handle a few Phantoms in a contained space. Relax, Major. When this night's over, you're going to be a hero."
Hein awoke amidst a tangle of sheets, his gaze wildly darting around the room. The urge to yell at the speakers to stop what they were doing was on the tip of his tongue.
It was a dream, Hein finally realized. Just a dream.
Then he remembered the events of a few hours earlier. The Council meeting. His talk with Emerson. His half-remembered flight to the refuge of his room as he tried to tell himself he couldn't have – wouldn't have! – possibly done what the general had accused him of.
That was it. His dream had been caused by the accusation. It didn't' mean anything… right?
But it had been so vivid… Too realistic. Every detail, ever sound, sight, feeling, all had been clear as crystal. He'd never had a dream quite like it.
With dawning horror, he realized the truth. It hadn't been a dream. It was a memory…
To Be Continued…
Ouch, now that was a long chapter. My longest to date.
Author's Note: Yay! Chapter 10! I am now in the double digits here. I can't believe I made it this far… and that I'm almost done! I apologize this chapter took so long to get up. It took me a while to write. Like I've said, I suck at dialogue, and this chapter has a lot of it. And partway through, I changed Emerson's character. He was going to be a ranting lunatic at first, until it occurred to me that someone like that wouldn't have made it as a general. And finding the motivations behind his reason was really hard…
SALVATION
Chapter Ten
"Your sins would make all of Heaven weep."
Hein spent as much of his free time as he could at the hospital with Aki. Because of her condition, and Gray's own pre-maturity, they were going to be at the hospital for at least a week. Hein couldn't wait until she could come home. When he wasn't visiting, he was helping Dr. Sid and his returned assistants in the lab, or working to ready Aki's apartment for her return. She hadn't had time to do much for Gray, and had thought she'd have a month longer.
All in all, Hein found he was often far too busy to brood over his life as General Hein. Aki was far more important to him.
On the third day after Gray's birth, Hein encountered Dr. Sid in one of the lab rooms where various animals were caged. These animals, Hein had heard, were going to be released in Atlanta. Dr. Sid was staring at the creatures, a worried expression on his wrinkled face.
"What's wrong?" Hein asked, wondering if there was a problem with the animals. He moved closer to the cage, studying them.
Dr. Sid gave a frustrated sigh. "It's the military. They're all a bunch of ignorant, paranoid fools." He crossed his arms and glowered at Hein, who spread his hands placatingly.
"What did we do this time?" Though Hein was officially suspended from the military, he still considered himself on of them. Dr. Sid's verbal attack rankled him. And he'd thought he was finally starting to get along with the old man…
"It's General Emerson. He wants all of his soldiers who are stationed at the terraforming sites to return to Houston."
Hein frowned. "The scientists would still be there. And there aren't any threats to them, right? Are the soldiers there really necessary?"
Dr. Sid pinched the bridge of his nose. "No, there aren't any dangers to the scientists. It's the land itself I'm worried about. Do you know how many people want to visit these sites? How, in their ignorance, these people who have been confined to a barrier city all their lives might accidentally destroy our hard work by frightening the animals, trampling plants, or just grabbing a little something for a souvenir? The soldiers keep away the curious until the site is ready for them. For now, we can't afford to destroy the little we have."
"I see," Hein said quietly. He remembered the hard work that had gone into the Colorado site, though he hadn't participated in it himself.
"And it's not just the soldiers. General Emerson wants all the military equipment back here as well."
Hein stared. "But… that's ridiculous! Can he do that? I thought the Council made these decisions."
"He's fighting the Council. We're meeting tomorrow to discuss the matter." Dr. Sid shook his head slowly. "I don't like to face them alone."
Hein hesitated a moment. "Would you like me to go with you? I might be able to take on Emerson." His lips quirked in a wry grin. "I'm a general too, after all."
Dr. Sid cocked his head, considering. "Perhaps you would be of use after all. You've certainly proven you can bully Emerson's men."
Hein flushed. "That was to save Aki's life!"
"And I'm grateful for it," Dr. Sid interjected before Hein could get angry. "But you have to be careful. The Council… isn't well disposed towards you."
Hein nodded, and turned back to the caged animals. He thrust a finger through the mesh and stroked the soft fur of the closest animal. It whirled around and bit him.
"Argh!" He whipped his hand away, watching the blood trickle down his index finger. "Vicious little beast, isn't it?"
Dr. Sid laughed. "Actually, the rabbits are usually quite friendly. I've never seen them bit anyone before."
Hein pouted. Figures. I survive a war with vicious Phantoms and get wounded by a rabbit. "Guess I lack animal skills."
"I hope your people skills are better," Dr. Sid sad seriously. "Otherwise, tomorrow's Council meeting could be a disaster."
* * *
Aki was holding Gray when Hein went to see her that day. She gave him a sweet smile as he leaned over to kiss her.
"So they finally let you have him, huh?" Hein asked. Gray was sleeping, his small form huddled close to Aki.
"Finally," Aki said, her eyes on her child. "I didn't expect him to be so small."
"Why? You wanted him to be bigger?" Hein arched an eyebrow.
Aki chuckled. Then her gaze fell on Hein's bandaged finger. She was familiar with the wounds on his wrist, but hadn't seen this one before. "What happened to your finger?"
"This?" Hein wouldn't meet her eyes. "I was brutally attacked by a savage, bloodthirsty killing machine. Luckily, I was able to get Dr. Sid out of the way before he was hurt."
"Oh?" Aki asked, her disbelief plain.
"I got bit by a rabbit," Hein said sheepishly.
Now Aki laughed, and Hein was pleased by its strength. She was definitely recovering. Though a few moments later, she winced and grabbed her abdomen with her free hand. "You almost made me bust my stitches," she said a little breathlessly.
"I'm glad you find it amusing," Hein said, his voice faintly petulant. "See if I ever protect you from a horde of man-eating rabbits." Then he sobered. "I'm going to face the Council tomorrow."
Alarm crossed Aki's face. "What? Why?"
Hein wondered why that frightened her. Did the Council have it in for him? "Did Dr. Sid tell you about General Emerson's latest decision?"
Aki scowled and nodded. She settled back on her pillow, careful not to disturb Gray. "The man's an idiot. If the Phantom war was still going on, we'd all be in trouble."
"The man still seems to think the war is going on," Hein said quietly. "They seem to make generals out of the worst people."
Aki had no answer for that. Instead, she said, "Be careful with Emerson. He doesn't like it when people disagree with him. He only obeys the Council because they have power over him. Anyone under him, or a civilian, he won't listen to."
Hein was grateful for the warning. "I'll probably just sit back and listen the whole time. I'm only going as moral support. Apparently, most of the lab staff is intimidated by the military." Aki suddenly yawned, and Hein realized how late it was. "I should let you two get some sleep," he said. "I'll let you know how tomorrow goes."
Aki grabbed his left hand, running her fingers over the scar tissue. "Good luck," she said simply.
"I hope I don't need it," Hein said.
* * *
Hein entered the Council chamber behind Dr. Sid, hoping the Council wouldn't take a good look at him. Aki seemed to think he had a reason to worry about them, after all.
But they didn't seem to recognize him, though an older woman did look at him with a puzzled expression, as if she wasn't certain if she knew him or not.
Hein took his seat beside Dr. Sid, his gaze wandering to the military contingent. General Emerson was already there, he noticed. The general was a middle-aged man with thinning grey hair. He wore an immaculate uniform, and looked every inch the "proper" general. Not like generals Hein had seen in recordings…
The head Council member, Councilwoman Hee, bade General Emerson to begin. The man did, calmly expressing his intention to recall his soldiers to Houston and stating why he thought it was unnecessary for them to continue baby-sitting the scientists.
Hein was surprised by the man's calm manner. From Aki's description, he'd expected Emerson to be a raving paranoid lunatic. It was no wonder the Council was actually listening to what Emerson said.
But would they agree with him? Hein would have said no at first. He still couldn't understand why Emerson was reluctant to station his men and equipment to protect something so important. Emerson kept going on about how this guard duty was a waste of soldiers, how the scientists had their own equipment and didn't need his – never mind the fact that the scientists were actually from a branch of the USMF and therefore entitled to the equipment – Emerson's list went on.
"Long winded, is he?" Hein muttered to Dr. Sid. "Was I like that?"
Dr. Sid, who was only half listening to the familiar argument, snorted. "No. You actually tried to play the Council, manipulating the members to make them see your way. General Emerson just states what he wants and expects everyone to agree with him." Dr. Sid wrinkled his nose. "It makes him easier to manage, actually, since you know what you're dealing with."
"I noticed he hasn't presented a good, solid reason to withdraw his soldiers," Hein commented.
"True, but he's been hassling the Council about this for months, apparently. And while Aki and I were gone, he's gained a foothold because there was no one to argue against him. Some of the members are starting to agree with him."
"Or may agree just to shut him up," Hein grumbled.
"There is that," Dr. Sid said dryly.
General Emerson finished his speech and took a seat. Hein and Dr. Sid focused their attention on the Council members, who were muttering among themselves.
Then Hee asked Dr. Sid to state his reasons for keeping the soldiers and the equipment onsite.
Hein watched Emerson while Dr. Sid spoke. The general was staring at Dr. Sid, a stony expression on his face. Apparently, he wasn't going to change his views, no matter what Dr. Sid said. And even if the Council agrees with Dr. Sid, he still may not let this go. He'll probably do something subtle, like removing the soldiers one at a time, or calling them back for "emergencies" and not letting them return to the site later. That… that's what I would do… Hein pursed his lips. He may not be imaginative enough to talk the Council to his way of thinking, but he's not stupid. He could find a way around all that.
Someone had to put a stop to Emerson's plans now, before the general decided to take matters into his own hands. Emerson wouldn't listen to reason. Someone had to force the issue.
Someone like Hein himself. With a nervous swallow, Hein got to his feet.
* * *
General Emerson was rather pleased with the way things were going. True, the Council wasn't supporting him outright, but he knew at least three members agreed that these sites were a waste of military resources. After all, why would anyone want to be so far from the protection of a barrier city? Here, they had food, water, protection, and access to a permanent power source. At these sites, each of which had cost the taxpayers several million dollars, groups of scientists were wasting more money importing food and running generators, and all for the sake of a few blades of grass!
These scientists were fed, watered, and given military support. They were living the high life while the rest of the cities struggled to recover from Phantom occupation. General Emerson was going to put a stop to that. The human race would leave the barrier cities, but only when they were ready.
And he wanted to be the one who decided when that would be.
Emerson sat through Dr. Sid's scientific lecture, ignoring most of it. He wasn't a scientist; what did he care about all this? And he didn't see how the sites would be damaged if left unprotected. After all, most of the world was destroyed anyway. Emerson couldn't see how it could get any worse.
He let his eyes wander over the Council, noticing how his supporters were shaking their heads as Dr. Sid's attempts. Council members Hee and Drake, however, were listening attentively. They were the members that worried him the most. The New York members hadn't known him very long, and they'd seemed to have developed a distrust for his position, due to Hein's actions.
Hein… Emerson's jaw clenched. Could he really be here? Impossible! And he wouldn't be "saving" Dr. Ross's life if he were, right?
It must have been an imposter. Otherwise, Hein would have made himself known by now.
At least Dr. Ross was temporarily out of the picture. Her status as "savior of mankind" made even Emerson's supporters sit up and take notice of her. Now, though, she'd have a lot on her mind; hopefully too much to concentrate on this folly of terraforming land that was beyond hope.
Emerson's gaze came to rest on the man who had take Aki's place. Where'd the doctor find this one? He doesn't look very scientific. The left side of his face, the part Emerson could see, was scarred, the lips twisted. He wore an eye patch, partially obscured by a long lock of white hair which, as Emerson idly watched, the man irritably brushed back. The rest of his long, curly black hair was neatly combed back, but Emerson thought the man still looked like a ruffian. Could he be a threat to me? Emerson wondered.
There was something about the man that bothered him… Something that Councilwoman Hee seemed to sense as well, judging from her quick glances toward the man.
As Dr. Sid concluded his speech, the man beside him suddenly got to his feet, drawing the attention of the entire chamber. Judging from Dr. Sid's shocked look, this was unplanned.
"Ladies and gentlemen," the man began. His voice sent mutters rippling through the Council members. The unflappable Councilwoman Hee was now staring at the speaker with barely concealed shock. "What General Emerson suggests is foolish. We've been under the barrier cities for too long. It is time now that the human race regains its freedom and helps the planet to recover."
The man turned to fully face Emerson, and the general got his first view of the unscarred half of the man's face. No… It can't be!
"General Hein," Councilwoman Hee's voice cut through the silence Hein's interruption had caused. "We were not informed you were taking part in the meeting. Are you fully recovered from your injuries?"
Hein's stern expression faded, and he looked almost shameful. "No, ma'am. I still have no memory of the last fifteen years of my life. I know only what I found out for myself. I do know enough to realize we shouldn't hide in barrier cities anymore."
He was amnesiac? Interesting… But it seemed his dominating nature hadn't been affected. He had the entire Council chamber's attention.
They're probably all amazed to see him on the side of nature for once. Hell, I'm shocked, too. But will the Council listen to him? He may actually hurt Dr. Sid's credibility. And that's without the Council knowing what I know…
General Emerson narrowed his eyes speculatively.
"The general's arguments are valid. These sites are a drain on the economy," Councilman Harrison said calmly. "They can't yet support life, and no one is allowed to set foot there except the scientists. They're just glorified laboratories for the scientists."
Dr. Sid's lips thinned, but he said nothing. He seemed to be curious where Hein was going to take this.
"Perhaps they may be that way now," Hein agreed. "But I've been to one of these sites, and I have seen how, in the earlier sites, the growth has already spread beyond the initial dimensions. The Earth won't be a barren wasteland forever, and I for one don't intend to stay confined in a city where population will increase and food and shelter will become scarce if we do as General Emerson suggests."
"You would have a population used to our protection suddenly thrust into an unfamiliar environment?" General Emerson asked coldly. "At least here, we can oversee the populace and protect them from danger."
Hein actually sneered, the first expression Emerson had seen that proved he was the same Hein that Emerson remembered. "What danger? You insisted earlier that there was no danger to the scientists staying at the restored sites, and thus didn't need military supervision."
"Dander from within," Emerson snarled. "Without the constant threat of Phantoms, the population is getting restless. Crime has risen. We need the soldiers to police the population and the promise that many people can leave 'eventually' to live in a terraformed area that may not even survive the year just won't solve these problems."
"The military didn't always serve as law enforcers," Hein pointed out. "Why not re-establish a police force? It would be a good way for civilians to start to learn to handle their own problems."
Emerson seethed. Why did Hein have to question him? The man didn't know when to shut up. "My men can handle it," he began. "The civilians can leave the city when they're ready. And it won't be to some little grassland that has to be handled with care."
Hein ignored the last remark. "And who's going to decide when the populace is ready? You?" Hein made a slashing gesture with his hands. "That's what this is about, isn't it? You're losing control over the city, and you don't like it. So you're doing everything in your power to stunt the people's growth, to keep them nice and tame. You don't care about the planet at all."
Emerson went white. Many of the Council members were staring at him now, thoughtful expressions on their faces. Hein cleared his throat.
"I apologize for being so outspoken; I'd only intended to listen," he said to the Council, bowing his head respectfully.
Councilwoman Hee looked faintly shocked. "We have much to discuss," she said finally, with a glance at the other members. "Council shall resume in five days time. In the meantime, General Emerson, you will say nothing to your men." She gave Hein an unreadable look, then left with the rest of the Council.
* * *
"I think you just made an enemy," Dr. Sid said as he rose to his feet. Hein turned towards General Emerson, who was glaring across the room at him.
"Somebody had to stand up to him," Hein said. "If he hadn't been humiliated in front of the Council, he would have found a way to get what he wants without their permission. Now, though, he'll look like a fool – or worse – if he tries that. I'm sorry. I should have asked to speak. I should've have done something like that! He's a general, and I'm a sergeant. I can't believe I did that!"
"I don't think you could help it," Dr. Sid said wryly. "It must be in your nature to be the center of attention."
"Yes, but… The Council hates me, right?" Dr. Sid nodded. "So why did you let me do it? What if I just ruined your chances for further research into restoring the planet?" Hein released his breath in a sharp hiss. "I wouldn't forgive myself."
Hein followed Dr. Sid out of the chamber. "You did what you felt was right," the doctor said finally. "And let me just say, I'm glad you were on our side this time."
"Yes," Hein said softly. But will I always be? I don't want to become General Hein again!
"Excuse me, sir," a voice said behind them. Hein and Dr. Sid turned to see a corporal standing there, his body rigid. "General Emerson requests that you come to his office, sir," the corporal continued, his eyes on Hein.
Hein and Dr. Sid exchanged glances. Now what? Hein wondered. "I'll catch up to you later," he told the doctor, who nodded and left.
Then, with a sense of foreboding, Hein followed the corporal to the general's office.
* * *
General Emerson was sitting at this desk, and he didn't bother to return Hein's crisp salute. Hein stood at attention until the general irritably waved him towards a chair.
"That was quite a show you put on in there," Emerson said flatly. "One wouldn't think you were only a…" He looked at a loss for a moment.
"A sergeant," Hein supplied.
"Right. You went against a superior officer, and faked a rank a few days ago to divert a transport from its mission."
Hein barely restrained his anger. "You would have let Dr. Ross die?" he challenged. "Besides, I am a general, even if I don't remember it."
"You are currently suspended from the military, and are likely to face a court martial for your actions aboard the Zeus Cannon," Emerson snapped.
Hein froze. Court martial? Was that why Aki was hiding him from the Council?
"You have no right to interfere in USMF business. I'm surprised the Council let you speak."
"I had every right to as a representative of the scientific division," Hein began, his voice frosty. "If I hadn't said it, someone else would have. You care nothing for the safety of the planet, only – "
Emerson held up a hand to halt Hein's angry flow of words. "How amusing. You were the same way once. But I suggest you stay out of this. If you do, I'll keep silent about New York City."
Hein blinked. Emerson was threatening him? And why was New York important? "I don't know what you're talking about."
"How convenient," Emerson said with a sickly smile. "I'm talking about the city's downfall. I was stationed in Atlanta at the time, and my men investigated the tragedy. Do you know what we found?"
Hein could only shake his head wordlessly.
"Shortly before the barrier's fall, all the technicians in the barrier control room were arrested. Someone then shut down a sector of the barrier. Now, how many people have the power to do that?" Emerson folded his hands on his desk, his eyes locked on Hein's face.
Hein's blood ran cold. Who would have the power to authorize those arrests? To shut down the barrier? The city's highest ranking officer. General Douglas Hein.
"You lie," Hein said thickly.
"I have the records to prove it, though I've kept them from the Council to avoid panic. What if they knew what a general was really capable of? You killed millions of innocent people. Imagine how the Council will respond to that. You do know the price for treason?"
"No," Hein insisted. "I wouldn't…" It couldn't possibly be true! No one would do something so horrible!
"You should have stayed at the hospital where I left you," Emerson smirked. Hein was barely listening. He lurched to his feet.
"I didn't do it! No one would commit such a vile sin!"
"Your sins would make all of Heaven weep," Emerson stated.
Hein couldn't take it anymore. He rushed to the door, fumbling with the knob. "Think about what I said," Emerson called to Hein's fleeing back.
* * *
He stood in a large area, dark but for the eerie luminescence of the holographic boards.
"Reduce power to Sector 31," he commanded.
"Sir," a voice protested uncertainly, "you do realize that the Phantoms will…?"
Hein scowled. "What I realize, Major, is that we must force the Council to take action against the enemy."
The soldiers around him hurried to do his bidding, and the major watched it all, carefully disguising his terror as he said "Barrier breech in Sector 31, General. They're coming through now."
Hein flashed the major what could almost be called a reassuring smile. The poor man just wasn't bright enough to see why some sacrifices must be made for the greater good. "Oh, I think we can easily handle a few Phantoms in a contained space. Relax, Major. When this night's over, you're going to be a hero."
Hein awoke amidst a tangle of sheets, his gaze wildly darting around the room. The urge to yell at the speakers to stop what they were doing was on the tip of his tongue.
It was a dream, Hein finally realized. Just a dream.
Then he remembered the events of a few hours earlier. The Council meeting. His talk with Emerson. His half-remembered flight to the refuge of his room as he tried to tell himself he couldn't have – wouldn't have! – possibly done what the general had accused him of.
That was it. His dream had been caused by the accusation. It didn't' mean anything… right?
But it had been so vivid… Too realistic. Every detail, ever sound, sight, feeling, all had been clear as crystal. He'd never had a dream quite like it.
With dawning horror, he realized the truth. It hadn't been a dream. It was a memory…
To Be Continued…
Ouch, now that was a long chapter. My longest to date.