The War of Two Earths

by SnakeFanatic

A strange Roman-like structure rise and Japan found itself invaded by the strange clothed humans and fantasy-like races acting familiar with Earth, claiming retribution against...America?

14. Chapter 14

Title: The War of Two Earths

Rating: M for violence, gore, and profanity.

Disclaimer: Fallout franchise is own by Bethesda Softworks while Gate - jietai kare no chi nite kaku tatakaeri created by Takumi Yanai.

Warning: AU Fallout and AU Gate, swearing, death, and violence.

Summary: A strange Roman-like structure rise and Japan found itself invaded by the strange clothed humans and fantasy-like races acting familiar with Earth, claiming retribution against...America?

Chapter 14: A Lot Is Happening

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Somewhere in USA...Oct 2090…

"-has continued to rage between the workers and the companies over the unpaid regular hours and overtime. Not to mention the growing unsafe work environment and facing the threat of being replaced by automation. In another words, robotic workers." Said a smiling blond hair man in navy blue business suit holding a microphone, maintaining strong eye contact with a bulky portable camera being held by an unseen cameraman. Smiling as if there's absolutely nothing to be concerned about despite the huge contrast in the background.

The blond hair reporter could be seen standing few blocks that have been occupied by the Boston police force and the National Guards doing their best to keep the locals calm and under control. Several police-colored Protectrons blaring warning to the protesters to keep distance. The new generation of Protectrons have their arms spread open, forming a line with the police officers pushing the unhappy people at bay by using their shield. The National Guards stood behind the robot-police line in their light combat armor set. No doubt standing by to aid the local authority in keeping the rowdy protesters at bay.

The blond reporter continued to cheerfully report while doing a slight body turn to point his free hand at the locals that could be seen holding protest signs, "As you can see, this is one of the battles ongoing right now and the meat factory right there in the distance-"

The reporter pointed his finger with the camera shifting and zooming onto a factory in far distance, "-is currently shut down."

The camera shifted onto the reporter who brushed his hair off his forehead before speaking, "Currently, we do not know when it will re-open and resume its operation. But what we do know is that price of canned meat went up. Why just yesterday when I was doing grocery shopping, a single can of beef cost $67.50! That's right, sixty-seven dollars and fifty cents! PLUS taxes!"

The reporter flashed a pained expression as if he couldn't believe it. Now back in cheerful demeanor as if he didn't agonize, the reporter simply said, "We'll now switch back to Tammy at the studio."

"Thank you Teddy." Said a short curly brown hair woman in a tan sweater. Sitting behind a news counter, Tammy began with a big smile as if she has a reason to, "I will now be covering the miraculous recovery of a local man who immediately claimed he saw a flying saucer and-"

Tammy disappeared as the TV immediately started blasting a cave man's voice, "GROGNAK! NO! WEAR! STUPID! SUIT!" A colorful cartoonish blond hair muscular man in a loincloth and animal skin boots made a disapproval noise with displeased face, turning his head away from a cartoonish woman holding a tuxedo and black trench coat. A heartfelt laughter could be heard in the background.

"Sean Arnold Hector!" A fair skin woman with short length black hair admonished, "What did I tell you about changing the channel when someone is watching?"

"But mooooom!" An eight years old boy with messy black hair and blue eyes protested, "They're playing the Unstoppable Halloween Special all weekend!"

"Sean…." Mother used her warning tone.

"There will be Grognak! Captain Cosmos! And even your favorite superhero!" Sean gestured his hand at the tv showing the cartoonish Silver Shroud refusing a cave man outfit, stating, "Silver Shroud himself will not parade around as a Neanderthal in modern era." The same cartoonish woman placed her hands on her hips as she wore an expression of annoyance as if saying "Really".

The same level of annoyance could be seen on a mother's face. Her brown eyes gazed upon on her son's blue eyes. She could see her son wearing a simple pale blue T-shirt with a picture of Captain Cosmo holding a bottle of Nuka-Cola Quantum like the Statue of Liberty. Below the shirt is a simple bell bottom jeans. At the bottom, Sean has white socks with no shoes on since he just want to watch TV.

"Sean…Give me the remote."

"Fiiine. Watch your dumb news, mom." Sean groaned as he reluctantly handed over the tv remote to his mother who accepted it, "They're not dumb, Sean. I keep you telling it's important to stay up to date on the news so we can stay safe and be aware of dangers."

"What's the point if all they do is making you and dad upset?" Sean grumbled when his mother changed the channel back to morning news. Showing two men and a woman firing question after question at other each. To a young boy, it sound gibberish and boring. Didn't his teacher always said to let the person talk without interrupting? Dumb adults probably didn't finish their school with them constantly interrupting each other and not listening right.

A bunch of adult nonsense that Sean didn't care for, really.

Instead of answering her grumpy son's question, mother asked, "Shouldn't you finish up your homework first? I know I put it in your room."

"But today is Saturday!" Sean protested. When his mother gave him a bemused look, Sean sighed, "Okay, I get my homework..."

Sitting on a couch, the mother watched her son standing up to make his way to the hallway with a grown black hair man in his clothes consisting of simple white short sleeves shirt and black pant. In his right hand is a light blue long sleeves button shirt that has yet to be put on.

"Good morning son."

"Morning dad..." Sean grumbled before disappearing out of sight.

"In cheerful mood I see." The man remarked with amusement in his voice as he began to put on his light blue shirt. Quickly, he called out to his son, "Don't forget to wake Anna up!"

A faint "Okay!" could be heard from Sean in the hallway.

"He didn't finish it last night, Jake." Said the mother while mentally frowning at how tired Jake look with the bags under his blue eyes. He has been working long grueling hours to deal with the victims from the rampaging riots and killings that have surged all over the country.

"Hmm...Too bad about the morning cartoon." Upon buttoning up his long sleeves shirt, Jake walked to his wife before giving her a peck to her check, "And how's my beautiful wife doing?"

"Mmm...groggy, honey...Your breakfast is still in the toaster."

"Smell good as usual, Nora."

A playful smile formed on Nora's face as she asked her husband, "You mean me or the food?"

"Oh geez...That is a tough question, dear. I'm not sure, let's see...Uhh..." Jake made a show of struggling on how to answer his wife's question.

Nora snorted and rolled her eyes as she gave her husband a playful slap on his bicep.

"Just for that, I'm going have to go with the breads." Jake grinned at Nora's mocked indignant expression. Turning around to take a quick look at the window showing neighboring apartment buildings and streets, Jake asked, "Nora, did the news say anything about today weather?"

Nora changed the channel to a local weather channel while privately admiring the colors. Even today, Nora still find the colors to be surreal as she was used to watching black and white tv shows. Yes, the color quality is poor but still incredible thanks to the Tri-Color Capture Device (TCCD for short) that Jake insisted on buying it after saving up for months after moving from Boston, Massachusetts to Arlington, Virginia.

Invented by Juan William Camerena-Baird, the revolutionary device must be installed inside the black-and-white televisions so they can display colors through red, blue, and green. Nora remembered how she and Jake scratched their head while reading the manual on installing the damn thing because the Hector couple didn't want to pay the installation fee borderline highway robbery.

But it was worth the headache albeit screaming at the TV in form of stress relief and much cheaper than buying a color tv. The colors made drama TV shows such as Ruby's Love, the Blue Lawman, and Wendy's Wonderful World more...immersive. Even the commercials look immersive! Gosh, that's the word to describe. Nora had never paid so much attention to commercials that tend to be dull until after installing the TCCD that bought life into the family TV. That was how the Hector family spent the very first hour of enjoying the colors.

Watching the colorful commercials showing the smiling people happily showing various products. Off course with cheerful tune playing as background noise as more and more companies started doing their commercials in colors.

A fusion-powered red car that carrying a smiling family of five with luggage for thousand miles from dreary town out of nowhere to a beautiful sandy pristine beach in Florida. Have option to make one time purchase or monthly installation payment with the new models coming in multiple colors. Huh, it's been long time since she went to Florida.

A handsome boy enjoying a brand new Nuka-Cola flavor called Sub-Lime, a lime flavor cola. His friends in colorful outfits surrounded the boy, gushing at how delicious the Nuka-Cola Sub-Lime look with green glowing liquid. Nora personally felt the girls were overdoing it with their "dreamy" sigh and battering their eyelashes when expressing their "admiration" toward the handsome boy and his drink.

A colorful but still refreshing world of Nuka World Amusement Park, showcasing multiple areas with adults and children all enjoying the time of their life. Sipping many different flavors of Nuka-Cola. It was beautiful and lively sight that made the Hector family want to go. Maybe one day once Nora and Jake can put in their leave request and take their kids to the park...that would be wonderful and memorable, wouldn't it? Sean has expressed his interest in the Galactic Zone while Anna wanted to go to the Kiddie Kingdom.

Brand new selection of fashion with bell-bottom pants, plaid shirts, collar shirts, vests, bodysuits, and others made by a company called Fashion-lution Company. Showcasing the color variety and how happy the actors look while wearing the products out on the street. "Old school out, new school in!" is the company motto. It took a while but Nora has grown fond of the bell-bottom pants, feel less...restricting on her legs and have pockets. These days, the people look less depressing to look at compared to back in 2060s to 2070s. If only her parents and in-laws stop grumbling about today generation and fashion going downhill, that would be great.

No mother, nobody wear corset in 2090s. Not even in the 2070s and 2080s for that matter. Gosh, get with the program! Time has changed! Nobody should be wearing corset anyway. Beside, fashion has been stagnating for a very long time in the US history ever since girls and women gained right to wear pants to school and work.

Still flipping channels with some still aired in monochromatic colors, Nora passed few cartoons and news not showing weather report yet.

Hmm...Cartoons...Used to be all black, white, and gray.

When a new colorful cartoon aired on televisions nationwide, it became a sensational hit among children and adults as they fell in love with it. Forming new way to spend time together as family for the parents and children nationwide. It was none other than the Hubris Comics' UNSTOPPABLES cartoon with its members each having their own separate show and some episodes are crossover. However the hardcore fans have been grumbling about the story rewrites and character re-designs. Bemoaning how the superheroes AND supervillians were perfect in their own way and didn't need to be changed in any way.

Once were local favorite, the UNSTOPPABLES became America's beloved TV show…Featuring...

CAPTAIN COSMOS!

The gallant freedom loving Space American man traveling space and time in show called Captain Cosmos's Cosmic Odyssey! Nora remembered him being a blond hair fair skin man with black eyes in orange space suit with blue-yellow stripes shoulder pads when she was working on her Juris Doctor (JD) as a part-time student with part-time job at local store. Her old co-worker often read the Captain Cosmos comics and sometime let Nora read them on break.

Good time it was...But now Captain Cosmos got re-designed. Still blond hair fair skin man but with blue eyes and his space suit went from orange to white while shoulder pads became red and blue. His boots became black. His helmet is still an orb shape helmet protecting him from harsh environment and enabling him to breathe in space. Still have his partner, Jangles the Moon Monkey also in white space suit with blue-yellow stripes shoulders. However Jangles's furs went from brown to orange for reason Nora doesn't care enough to remember. Jangles look tacky anyway.

GROGNAK!

The muscular ancient warrior with long history of battles against his foul foes and prevailing through his physical and mystical attributes plus his mighty battle axe in Grognak's New Era! Still became a human popsicle before thawing out in modern time. Goodness, Nora could still recall a handsome actor who was in great shape and being cast as Grognak for the black and white live action film but sadly, it got canceled. Maybe one day, someone will come up with new Grognak movie in colors and when the Hector family feel like going to the movie. Nothing about Grognak has been changed but has brown eyes.

SILVER SHROUD!

The mysterious crime-fighting vigilante with his personal crusade against all villainy and scums in America. Arms with silver justice-spitting submachine gun that never seem to run out of bullets, Silver Shroud strike fear in all criminals from petty thugs to even his arch-enemy, Dr Machinist (formerly known as The Machinist). Silver Shroud didn't go through drastic changes other than losing "The" because Hubris Comics wanting to save money on ink cost per letter for comics. Same thing with Grognak who had "the Barbarian" as part of his superhero name but that part got dropped to avoid having to type it frequently. It's sad but Nora couldn't blame the writers because even her workplace grumbled about the printer ink cartridges and pens being so expensive to refill!

Co-starring in Dark Justice cartoon with...LADY MYSTERY!

Once called the Mistress of Mystery, the crime-fighting American woman went through drastic changes with her hero name, background story, and costume design. In a daring risk, the artists drew Lady Mystery as a brunette woman in black gleaming bodysuit with purple gloves, purple cloak with dark green outline, and black hood that her enemies see faceless and gleaming red broach. Such re-design supposedly resonate with the modern women. The heroine worked with Silver Shroud in traveling everywhere in America and delivering the dark justice to the nay-doers and foul-doers.

Gosh, Lady Mystery is Nora's favorite superhero and hopefully, the writers don't do silly love triangle between Silver Shroud, Lady Mystery, and Inspeczana who's another female UNSTOPPABLE superhero who was formerly called the Inspector. While Inspeczana doesn't have her own show, she has been re-designed and sometime appeared in the Dark Justice, Grognak's New Era, and even Captain Cosmos show as a supporting character.

Then, all the UNSTOPPABLES shows have crossover episodes and holiday specials between the popular superheroes and supervillains. Or so that's what Hubris Comics planned to do for this year and forward as stated in the interview with two writers on the radios and TVs.

Nora softly bit her lips, thinking more about her favorite character. Know what? Maybe Sean is right, Nora and Jake have been watching too many news and letting their worry and stress from work and crazy events getting to them. They need to take a break from the negativity that's impacting the Hector family as a whole. Maybe they'll-

"Ah damn!"

Nora heard her husband hissing under his breath. Jake has put on his coat over it before grabbing his lunch pail. Facing Nora, Jake quickly gave a peck to her cheek, saying, "Never mind, I need to go now, love you!"

Grabbing his car key, Jake ran out of the apartment and shut the door. Leaving Nora to sigh before getting up and making her way to the door and lock three different locks.

"I need a break from the news." Nora sighed, rubbing her forehead and eyes before walking to the kitchen to grab a plate that was set for Jake, now empty. Preparing two cereals, Nora called out, "Sean! Anna! Come out, it's breakfast time!"

Nora saw she has spilled few drops of milk onto the table when pouring milk into the second bowl. While grabbing a hand towel, she could hear her children's footsteps. Couple seconds, grouchy Sean and a smiling little girl with brown hair pig tails showed up. Dressed in kid-size pajamas sporting Cappy and Bottle with fairy wings. Obviously tailored for young children.

"Morning mommy!" Anna cheerfully greeted. Being 4 years old, she excitedly ran to mom to hug her leg. Softly laughing, Nora caressing her daughter's hair, "Look like someone got good night sleep. Did you sleep good?"

"Yeah!"

"Did your best friend protect you from bad dream?" Smiling, Nora gently petted on a smiling cat doll dressed in Nuka-Cola onesie. Anna has named it "Cola". Used to be Sean's but he grew out of it and gave it to his little sister who has taken liking to the cat doll. Anna really like Nuka Cola mascots. Being a doctor, Jake worked hard to limit how much Nuka Cola Anna can drink so she wouldn't develop dental problem or health issue while growing up.

(Note: Cat doll in Nuka Cola onesie is from Fallout 76 as a decoration)

"Yeah!" Anna lifted Cola, pressing its head against mother's hand.

"Oh good, come on now. It's time for you and Cola to eat." Nora lifted Anna before putting her on a wooden chair. Gently pushing her close to the table.

Sean rolled his eyes as he bluntly stated as if he's informing his mother that the sun is hot, "Mom, she's 4, not 2."

"Well, excuuuuse meee…Why is he- He's too young to give me that kind of attitude." Nora thought as she cast a disapproving look at Sean who promptly began to eat his cereal. Better nip it in the bud because she's not having it. Having already ate breakfast since she was the first to get up, Nora stood and watched her children eating breakfast before deciding it's high time to do the dishes that have been piling up followed by few chores.

Would be convenient to have a personal robot. That would leave Nora with more time to relax and be with her children.

Nora and Jake did considered buying a personal robot to maintain their current home (and future house) and watch over their children. Unfortunately, their current apartment doesn't allow robots and there was a growing and persistent robo-phobia with the clash between the companies and the workers over automation that has gotten worse by the years with the anti-robot vigilantes going around and vandalizing the robots or sabotaging the factories producing robots.

There was even a report of robo-phobic vigilantes breaking into people's home to inflict violence on not only the robots but also the residents. Dozen people including children have died. Despite the federal effort, the number of Americans owning guns went up with the rampant illegal gun sales and homemade guns. Jake had mentioned how often people got hurt by the homemade guns created out of necessity through "creative use" of materials and scraps such as pipes, wood, bolts, screws, and other junks.

There was even a crappy imitation of revolver that was designed to shoot .50 caliber round! She may not know a whole lot about the guns and bullets, but she know just enough thanks to good old Guns & Bullets magazines that have easy to understand detail on guns and ammunition. Just exactly what or who the maker was planning to shoot with a darn .50 caliber round? Never mind how viable the design was which it wasn't as Jake was told. The gun literally blew up when testing in a range with a mold to hold the gun and a string to pull its trigger. To no one's surprise, the gun was put together too poorly to work as it exploded in many wood splinters and pipe bits. Don't even get Jake started on how someone managed to construct a homemade Telsa rifle supposedly for "self-defense against rouge robots".

Jake said it wasn't a pretty sight when he was dealing with sudden influx of patients in the Emergency Room.

How crazy was that?

Nora felt amazed and disturbed at how well humans can turn almost anything into deadly weapon or tool of destruction even when the USA was coping with the resources scarcity. Not only that, there was a disturbing trend among the robots as starting in late 2080s, the robots have started to sport...human-like characteristics. Purposely distinguishing themselves from the older models sold by RobCo, House Industries, General Atomics, and O'Robo Company all now hellbent on selling the new models.

Mister Handy Y-2086 and Miss Nanny Y-2086 have two limbs with human-like rubbery hands. General Atomics claimed the decision to produce such new design was because of better programming, better grips, and less chance of "at-home accidents" thanks to replacing the burner engine with newly improved hover technology. The human-like hands will barely feel any different from the actual human touch. Nora had an opportunity to shake hand with Mister Handy Y-2086 and while "he" has firm grip, "his" hand felt rough and coarse.

Personally, Nora think the older Mister Handy is more charming than the new model. Can't beat that classic British accent. Why, just why did General Atomics stopped giving its beloved Mister Handy the British accent? That was the whole point of owning a Mister Handy! Surely, General Atomics could just hire a different British voice actor instead of going for someone from Alabama, California, and New York. Not that there's anything wrong with the American accents, it's just they lack the British charm. Jake had called Nora crazy for preferring the British accents over the American accents.

Ok, replacing the engine with hover technology? That's a good idea, Nora doesn't want to risk her children getting burned. Much safer with no fire and children can safely go under, not that she would encourage it. She wouldn't since that would be irresponsible.

(Note: new models of Mister Handy and Miss Nanny have Eyebot technology, no more having to buy fuel canisters)

No longer General Atomics will manufacture Mister Handies and Miss Nannies with built-in tools for the domestic service market. Only the models in construction and other services outside domestic service will have built-in specialized tools such as buzz-saw and claws. The new models however are equipped with non-lethal zapper as a mean of protecting the owners and their loved ones from morally questionable individuals possessing unwholesome intention toward them.

Additionally, the new design has replaced the three individual optics with a small metal cube referred as "head" with one side having a screen displaying man's face (for Mister Handy) or woman's face (for Miss Nanny) in monochromatic colors for more "personalized interaction". General Atomics claimed to be working on implementing the colored screen but the new models will not be available on the market until year 2092 or maybe early 2093.

The head can rotate to face whoever addressing it as well as retracting and extracting like a turtle. The cube-shape head has four optics all built on each side for 360 degree vision with one optic being located above the screen. General Atomics claimed this would be easier and cheaper to repair compared to three separate optics sticking out of rounded body.

Off course, General Atomis wasn't the only one that came with its own new models. Not wanting to fall behind, RobCo Industries too unveiled its new model after discontinuing production of one Protectron line specializing in domestic errands. That Protectron line has been replaced by a new model called the Servitrons to compete with the Mister Handy Y2086 and Miss Nanny Y2086 in domestic errand and customer service industries, showing the consumers they have choices. Sporting slimmer but more humanoid build thanks to borrowing the Assaultron design followed by redesigning for domestic purpose with human-like hands, no head-laser, and come in many different friendly colors such as sky blue, gentle tan, sleek silver, and even Easter pink! Coupled with friendly personality and various voice modules, the Servitron M-series and Servitron F-series short for Masculine and Feminine respectively came out in Feb 2090.

Shortly in Apr 2090, RobCo pulled the Servitron Fs off the market temporarily because the feminine models widely weren't being used for the intended purpose. Coincidentally, the number of people who have been bodily harmed when using outside the intended purpose was mostly men. Well, that's one robot the Hector family won't be getting once they find and buy their dream home.

Aside having legs, what truly make them stand out is that the Servitrons have crude metallic human-like face with solid block of "hair" (limited to 1 for male and 1 for female), two red optics (eyes), sharp nose, and mouth that doesn't move when speaking. Actually, Nora wasn't sure which one make her more uncomfortable. The tv screen showing human face or the crude robotic human-like face?

(Note: to make it easier, picture Doctor Doom of 1970s design from Marvel comics (now own by Disney). Got it? Great, now slap his face on Fallout 4/ 76's Assaultrons. Add new paint and minor modification to make them suitable for civilian customers to buy. BAM! That's what Servitrons look like.)

Then there's a new rising company in robotic industry called O'Robo Company that started out with animal-like robots before venturing in human-like robots for a slice of home market. Had its turbulent beginning in early 2080s and survived thanks to the anti-trust crackdown by the US government first started under the former President George Harney that barely took off in 2076. It was amazing that Harney won the election for his second term in 2080 despite making some unpopular decisions or blunders in his first term. It would be President Larry Getman's administration to continue for its first four years term to curb the big corporations from getting too big with buying and taking over the smaller companies as well as intentional sabotage or holding back any technological breakthrough that would save America from resources scarcity or give an edge over China and the Soviet Union.

Condemning the big companies for being anti-competitive and Un-American as well as not complying with the regulations.

Nora has seen Larry Getman several times on television and heard on the radio. A former US Army veteran turned politician who was known for his strong dislike toward the corporations and was very passionate and charismatic speaker, garnering strong support from the US military personnel, veterans, and families. He wasn't afraid to take action and condemn the big corporations for harming the country and its military strength by pursuing profit in un-American ways and depriving the American consumers of the benefits of competition with the smaller companies being bought and assimilated to achieve...monopoly and charging higher price than it should be. Hence Getman pushing for greater federal oversight on corporations to ensure their compliance and to remind them that it's the US government that run the country, not the corporations.

Claiming the corporations have purposely prevented the US military from having the true technological edge over the adversaries by providing shoddy or obsolete weapons and equipment to the US military. Even allowing China and Soviet Union to have the technology on fusion cell and others that intensified the arm race simply because the corporations were too busy looking at the bottom line for profit and cutting corners to respect the proper safeguard measures against foreign espionage and communist sympathizers!

The USA had a monopoly on the power armors but not anymore when China unveiled its own power armors, followed by the Soviet Union two months later. Same thing with the fusion technology. And then, there's new technology being invented or applied, leading to new model of robots, appliances, vehicles, airplanes, and even space ships with US Space Agency stepping up for the mission to moon and Mars to establish greater US presence much to the adversaries' protest.

Yeah sure, it's not like America is still going through economic woe and civil unrest or anything, Nora thought with sarcasm. Oh yes, tax money at work on here and there plus more. But hey, maybe Americans can truly achieve the American dream on the hostile worlds with non-breathable atmosphere that some genius claimed it can be solved by nuking Mars and voila, Mars get renamed to New America, Mars America or something.

Whatever, still have long way to go.

Fast-forwarding, the Sino-Soviet War ended after a man named Karp Sokolov successfully assumed control of the Soviet Union in 2089. No exact detail but the US news reported the Soviet Union had a brief but bloody infighting in Moscow and immediately after winning, Sokolov practically pulled a plug on aid to India. Later, India collapsed after enduring more of China's figurative punching without the Soviet aid.

Quoting a Senator from Texas, Sokolov has "basically kowtow-ed" as a form of apology to China upon becoming the new leader through series of "questionable coincidences" with his political opponents disappearing or just simply dropped dead from health complication. America expected China to issue a harsh punishment on the Soviet Union. Very much likely forcing the Soviet Union to pay reparation in form of limited precious resources to China and being imposed restrictions. But then China and the Soviet Union came together, forming the Communist Powers.

The Getman administration spoke of the threat that the Communist Powers posed toward America and its people, validating the fear of potential war. He pointed out China's new Premier, Cai Mei-Hui who held a speech after the previous Premier Xin died from old age and made an amazing quote, "A war between the People's Republic of China and the United States of America is unlikely."

Just kidding, only idiots would believe that. The same idiots who would believe that dolphins will one day walk onto land and demand the whole world to bow down to their aquatic might or submerge under the consequences. Or green little aliens coming down to Earth from space and claiming they have "peaceful" intention. The UFO nutcases can say all they want but Nora refuses to believe in aliens. They're just entertainment provided by and marketing tools used by Nuka Cola Company and others.

No, Premier Cai actually said, "A war between the People's Republic of China and the United States of America is inevitable."

The Chinese Premier didn't mince his words when he said it to his audience including a small number of foreign reporters including the American ones. He was a very vocal speaker who despised the US for exploiting China's desperation for oil, calling the capitalistic nation a "cruel, sadistic, and opportunistic tyrant". Well, that was generous of him to invite the reporters from the US and few countries before warning the world including America that billions will die in the theoretical "US-CP War" should it inevitably break out.

That was when the world population became painfully aware of how many nukes the US and China-Soviet Union still have. Sitting in their arsenal, waiting to be unleashed that would certainly end the world as humans everywhere know it. Such unfortunate and apocalyptic event would certainly be devastating and spell near guaranteed extinction followed by stagnation until death or something. How much time does the world have is unknown but with the technology race between the USA and China to modernize their infrastructure and military to be free of their shackle and chain being oil dependency, there may be quite some time before either one fire the first shot. It was akin to being a prisoner on death row, uncertain when death will be scheduled. It could be tomorrow or next year but death will come.

It was not a good feeling to have.

So much for world peace. But again, the world has seen more than 3 dozen wars as part of the Resources War since 2050s with a very minor nuclear denotation in France. It's a miracle that US and China have yet to declare war on each other. Coincidentally, Cai Mei-Hui and Karp Sokolov happened to be similar to President Getman as they too used to be military officer prior to getting into position of power. Or so that's what the news claimed when discussing the international news to anyone who care enough to watch or just tired of listening to domestic news. But again, the international news have been rather limited and filtered.

Nora mentally snorted. Journalism isn't what it used to be. Her old friend, Sadie Wells who got a degree in journalism had bemoaned about the truth being blurred and filtered as the freedom of press became the bondage of press. Such Un-American remark would earn a...gentle knock on the door in midnight before issuing a not so gentle warning with a veiled threat of "winning" a one-way trip to one of the Un-American camps that everybody and their grandmother know about but pretend not to know.

Nora shook her head. Maybe she should give her old friend in Boston a call just to see how she's doing. Yes, Nora will do that later.

The reminder of China as the biggest threat coupled with the newly formed Communist Powers have the American people's imagination and speculation running wild. The Americans of Chinese ancestry didn't enjoy being treated with unfounded suspicion nor being accused of being Communist sympathizers. At least those who genuinely want to live as Americans instead of living as Chinese (as in being communist spy). In case of Americans of other Asian ancestry, they didn't enjoy being mistaken as Chinese plus the rough treatment being dished out onto them. And the Americans with last name originating from the Soviet Union? Oh boy...Jake wasn't keen on having the Antonava as a neighbor as the American born man, Arkady (or "Archie" as he prefer) said his grandparents came from Belarus part of the Soviet Union to the USA.

The Antonava couple, Archie and Brittany was no problem to get along with for Nora. Their daughter, Mira sometime hang out with Sean and Anna after school. But for Jake? That's a different story. It wasn't because Archie and Brittany being potential communist spy family or anything like that. It was just simply because living right next to the Antonava family in the same apartment complex could cause a problem for the Hector family in unforeseen future.

Say...anti-Communist sympathizers lynching or another wave of paranoia and mob breaking into the apartment complex. Jake didn't want that for his family's safety but there weren't many apartments with vacancy or affordable rent in Arlington, Virginia. Still cheaper and somewhat safer than living in Boston, Massachusetts.

At the same time, Vault-Tec took an opportunity to remind America of the Vaults and how they'll protect the American families from nuclear annihilation so they may rebuild the great America afterward. Hoping that the public forget a particular scandal that Getman was able to garner support for his measure to put a greater leash on the corporations, thanks to the whistle-blowers and the lawsuit that came after Vault-Tec was forced to settle its legal issue with Nuka-Cola Company.

(Note: Vault-Tec v. Nuka-Cola Company lawsuit came from the Vault Dweller's Official Cookbook released by Bethesda. It should be on page 164, 1st paragraph.)

"Unlikely." Nora mused as she washed dishes. It was one of the biggest scandal that shook the American trust in Vault-Tec and their incredibly expensive but unsafe Vaults cast under shadow of doubt that they will truly protect Americans from the external and internal threats to their well-being. The investigation on the Vaults has been heavy and condemning. Knowing that oil has gone dried, the US and China could only throw harsh words at each other across Pacific Ocean and people could only live in fear of nuclear exchange so long before getting tired of it. In the meantime, all US and China could do was remind their respective population of each other being the true enemy. At least, that's what Nora assumed.

"So unpleasant...Gosh, listen to myself. Unpleasant. I'm talking as if I'm wearing a tinfoil hat." Nora shook her head.

That sound like something that a conspiracy nutcase would say. Better keep it to herself. Even though everybody know the civil unrest is everywhere, no matter how tight the government's grip on the news. People aren't wholly stupid...Ok, maybe some are. Nora has unfortunately met her fair share of stupid people.

"Oh why am I thinking about this? I've just thought people could only live in fear of America and China nuking each other so long." Nora pretended not to be concerned about the future. Beside, she's no conspiracy nutcase. She is a respectable lawyer who's also a mother with handsome husband and two beautiful children.

"I have better things to worry about. Like keeping Sean and Anna safe along with the grocery and rent."

Whoosh! Whoosh! Scrub! Scrub! Klink! Klink! Thck! Whoosh! Whoosh! Scrub! Scrub! Klink! Klink!

Nora set the plates and utensils that have been washed clean into a rack before turning the water off. Using a hand towel, Nora dried her hands. Addressing her kids, Nora asked, "Done with your bowl? Bring it here."

"Oh! Oh! Mommy! Can Meera come here and play?" Anna asked with her innocent brown eyes gazing hopefully at her mom, mispronouncing the next door neighbor girl's name. A little girl held her bowl up for mother to take and put it in the sink along with Sean's bowl plus spoons.

"Well it couldn't hurt to ask." Nora mused but quickly added, "No promise, I'm sure Mira has her own school works to work on. Isn't that right, Sean?"

"I guess so." Sean sound disinterested.

"Sweetie, why don't you go to your room and play? I'm sure Cola want cola party, right?" Nora softly guided Anna toward the hallway. "Once I'm done with the chore, I'll call Mrs. Antonava and see if Mira can come over. If not, we'll play a game, okay?"

"Okay mommy!" Anna happily skipped out of the kitchen, heading to her room. Leaving mother and son alone. Sean was about to leave when Nora said, "Why don't you bring your homework here so you can finish it today."

"Alright."

Nora began to work on other home chores with Anna playing "cola party" and Sean doing his homework that was delivered to the mailbox by the school employee. Ever since that event last month that shook the whole nation leading to massive riots and sudden surge in violence and paranoia, the schools nationwide were forced to shut down for the students' safety.

Nora paused to close her eyes before re-opening to resume her chores. Occasionally asking Sean about his education, reinforcing his learning in English, math, and US history. Although she tried to steer clear of the last month event but the impromptu quizzing shifting into Sean asking his mom that question when doing homework on basic knowledge of US government.

"But mom…?"

"Yes?"

"If the President is powerful, how come he...he died?" How Sean's eyes look hurt Nora. Her boy still remembered! She wished she could shield him and Anna from the ugly side of life. Nora took small comfort that Anna didn't see the assassination.

September 11, 2090...The day after President Larry Getman held a nation-wide television event on September 10. Addressing several events impacting America and few impacting the world as a whole. Nora could easily recall as clear as the day of how reserved Getman was. It was rather uncharacteristic of the normally passionate and charismatic man with firm voice.

He addressed the aftermath of a freak blizzard appearing of nowhere that affected Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota as well as Canada that's being re-organized as the 14th Commonwealth of USA, the Little America Commonwealth. Almost 3.6 million something Americans including the former Canadians have no power for heating and experienced the frantic rioting and looting that impeded the authority from helping citizens. The President paused for several seconds before reminding his listeners that 45,000 Americans have froze to death.

He voiced his acknowledgment of the American people's hardship including those still displaced and suffering the aftermath of the massive earthquake and nuclear denotations in 2079 that scarred California and Nevada. While the US was coping with the resource scarcity through new technology and new acts passed to aid the American citizens, the President urged people to refrain from committing violence against the federal, commonwealth, and state governments. Soon or later, America will recover and rise but only if the American people stand united and ignore any Un-American propaganda from the Un-American organizations, the communist sympathizers, and others.

"The American people should trust the United States of America government working diligently to keep them safe from the external and internal harms. We are protecting you and your family." President Getman said passionately on the microphones. To safeguard the American interests in the name of security, order, and prosperity. Reminding the US citizens that he had enlisted and served in the US military faithfully in compliance with an oath he had sworn. The same oath he continued to follow after transitioning to civilian side and after becoming a politician. To better the American people's lives and safeguard the future generations of Americans.

"Remember, the real threat is right on the other side of Pacific Ocean." Getman reminded.

He touched base on the "tense relationship" with China and the Soviet Union with the latter one just had its political infighting that saw Karp Solokov aka the "Stalin wannabe" becoming new leader and ending the Sino-Soviet War, a war that broke out between the two communist nations over the Soviet Union aiding India followed by "kowtowing" to China, echoing what the Texas Senator said when America learned about the Soviet Union's action. India whom China has been fighting has collapsed and fractured from the massive infighting and lack of stability. Sharing similar fate that Europe bought on itself that saw a slow and steady reduction in number of US military bases there when the remain of Europe refused to keep paying the shared cost, condemning the US government for not "discouraging" the European countries from warring against each other as well as cheating the European business. Thus, preventing the European Commonwealth from violently splitting apart. The President has spoken that last bit with frustration, mirroring America's as it was Europe's fault for falling apart in the first place after nuking the Middle East and not heeding America's warning.

He reminded the viewers that China and the Soviet Union possessed their own fusion cell technology. Soon and thanks to the technological advancement from the arm race, the lack of oil and vast Pacific Ocean will cease to being an obstacle. It would be only a matter of time before China, Soviet Union, or both decide to invade America once they modernize their fleet of vehicles and aircraft from oil to fusion. After reminding the US public of the communist threat, Getman reiterated that while America has no plan nor desire to launch the first attack on the Communist Powers, America will continue to take all measures to strengthen its defense and fortifying its hold of Little America and Mexico.

He discussed the Mexican Conflict that started after the US took a self-defensive action to protect and safeguard the American interest in Mexico when the Mexican government was falling apart and the Cartels were running rampant unhindered. Resulting a single man named Miguel Zapata forming and leading the Mexicano Front that previously started in small towns and villages. Eventually Miguel managed to get a hold of the whole Mexico including majority of disillusioned Mexican soldiers with his fiery words that resonated among the Mexicans. It didn't take too long for the Mexican government to lose control and fell that later, the Mexicano Front ended up fighting the US occupation force with the Cartels in crossfire. The Mexican people were simply too angry and have been pushed too far to give a damn about fearing the Cartels who reportedly changed their tune and lent aid to the Front with weapons, ammo, and explosives against the US occupation force.

Followed by discussing the North-South American War, a war occurring after America learned about the Mexicano Front receiving secret aid and even training from Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil. To cut the flow of support from South America to Mexico, the Harney administration dispatched the Navy and Marine Corps to launch a "friendly occupation" of Panama City and its large and deep canal. Unheard by the uncaring world, the Panama locals weren't a fan of that move and have expressed their outrage. They have even sent their ambassador to the US but the ambassadors didn't stay in Washington DC too long.

Later and in the US public's perspective, Colombia and few struck first by sending their operatives to collaborate with the Panama locals in committing several acts of terrorism against the US military in Panama. Resulting greater US presence that have a domino affect with fear and assumption playing role in the still standing South American nations' reaction and decisions.

According to the US news, the remaining intact countries in South America put a pause on the South American War to band together and form the Latin Nations League, a temporary coalition against the United States of America. The US public didn't expect that but also didn't think much about the Latin Nations League and assumed the North-South American War wouldn't last more than a month or two. After all, it's just a bunch of poorly equipped conscripts and volunteers being ragged and tired from the recent war while the US military was still in top shape with the Mexicano Front being pushed closer to its total annihilation, thus finalizing the total subjugation of Mexico. The US public conveniently forgot the Mexican Conflict lasted way more than "a month or two" that became decades with the Mexicano Front utilizing guerrilla warfare and terrorist tactics against the more powerful US Army in hope of "bleeding" it and achieving the similar outcome as the Vietnam War so the US public demand the US government to just call it quit and get its military out of Mexico.

"Regrettably, both Mexico and South America underestimated how much we have changed even after we turned Canada into Little America." Nora thought sadly, "The American democracy isn't what it used to be with the people's voice no longer being heard as one but as many divided voices."

Nora found it to be bitter pill to swallow after completing her education. Even in 2060s and 2070s, the US government has been brutal and wasn't shy to use its heavy hand to suppress the protesters and rioters. Any voice of dissent has been silenced for being Un-American.

The Latin Nations League (LNL) countries only have horses, cows, and bicycles after running out of oil for vehicles! There was absolutely no way they could stand up to the mighty US Armed Forces! Even if the LNL somehow rigged vehicles to run on the outdated RobCo or General Atomics robots' battery that has been scrounged, they wouldn't stand up to the superior US vehicles and power armors on the battlefield even if the LNL stripped battery from every single robots that were deployed for natural disaster response long time ago.

This war with the LNL won't take long.

Well, a freak hurricane disagreed with that sentiment and had completely disrupted the First US Navy-Marines Colombia Battle Group by forming out of nowhere and creating a powerful raging whirlpool as well. Violently slamming two destroyers together that sink and damaging the remaining destroyer and carrier that had to turn around and head to Panama for emergency repair before the commander determined the group need to return to the US. The hurricane was measured at unprecedented category six and killed hundreds of US sailors and marines that some bodies haven't been recovered. Such event was celebrated and heralded as the sign from the heaven by the totalitarian leaders in South America as the LNL forces were able to set up the land and ocean mines at Colombia and Venezuela so the American imperialists will get a warm welcome.

Furthermore, the environmentalists voiced their concern about the radiation emitting from the sunken destroyers' reactor. Who know what sort of irradiated monstrosity born from this disaster?

It was seen as a stain on George Harney's Presidency. It has been the most expensive naval loss for the US and people weren't happy. But the Harney administration still had its sight on punishing South America. The USAF took a while to put together and deployed the second battle group that has to sail from Florida to Panama but with different destination. Instead of heading from Panama to Colombia or Venezuela, the US ships went around and moved further south toward the former Guyana that has been annexed by Brazil in 2070s to attack the dwindling Brazilian navy followed by the US Marines and robots storming Demerara City.

(Note: Demerara City is where Georgetown, Guyana, South America located in real life but bigger and different)

From there, the war took an odd turn in Nora's and every single American's perspective as the US news reported the progress. The USAF Marines successfully captured Demerara City with bare minimal casualty but made no further progress to advance. At first, Harney blamed the local irregulars inciting the resistance. Then he blamed torrential rainstorm that flooded the captured city and its surrounding, turning the ground into very muddy and difficult for the Marines to travel on. Later, the Second Battle of Demerara City took place with the LNL force swarming toward the city with Brazil wanting to re-claim it and push US military out but that failed.

The US Marines and robots stood strong with the few American bombers roaring in the sky, demolishing the enemy conscripts and volunteers along with the buildings, blocking the roads to outside city limit. The US news have shown photos of US Marines valiantly protecting local civilians from the uncaring LNL combatants' in-discriminating shooting. From there, there weren't many battles aside minor land battles and the US ruled the sky unchallenged, taking advantage of the LNL having weak anti-air capabilities and no air because of no fuel. It was supposed to be short war but managed to outlast Harney's second term. Even without the bombing support, the USAF Navy-Marines group has been dominating multiple Latin American countries, inflicting massive casualties while suffering what was best described as "a mere paper cut". Even attacking Columbia and Venezuela from south, figuratively punching the ragtag forces back over and over after systemically maiming Brazil.

There's no reason for the Latin Nations League to last this long, but it did just like the Mexicano Front. Were the South Americans better armed than expected? Did America underestimated its southern neighbors? Was the military command twirling its thumb and doing crossword puzzles before issuing an order? It doesn't matter, the Latin Nations League will crumble before the American power when Larry Getman assumed the position as the new President.

By the time Getman's 2nd term was halfway through in 2090, the US Army finally destroyed the last of the Mexicano Front in 2089 and captured Juan Zapata who took over years ago after his father's death in 2087. After America promptly passed the sentence, Juan Zapata and the remaining Mexicano Front leaders were publicly executed by the firing squad. In South America, the USAF Navy-Marines saw the LNL collective steam running out with the remaining Latin forces experiencing countless deserters and infighting because of the famine and poor leadership plagued by its corruption and self-denial plus the LNL wasn't really adhesive force but of nightmarish loose alliance of circumstance, resulting the civilians and some of the LNL combatants to turn against their respective government. The US military wasted no time to deliver the final crushing blow on the last standing LNL member, Colombia that saw its capital, Bogota ruined as the defenders lost quarter after quarter to the advancing US marines and robots.

The North-South American War ended in Dec 2089. After staying to ensure the South American people lost their desire to do anything hostile to America, the US Navy-Marines stated "Ok, we accomplished our mission. We have punished South America for aiding the Mexicano Front and committing terrorism against us in Panama and the US civilian ships using Panama Canal."

The US military departed South America, leaving it in ruinous state. Not a single government was left intact. The scars inflicted by the South American War and the North-South American War would take a very long time to recover.

President Getman then moved on from the Mexican Conflict and the North-South American War to discuss what the USA is going to do in future for 1 hour. After that, many viewers including the Hector family thought he was done. But then, President Getman turned around and came back to the podium to stare at the cameras.

Before opening his mouth to address many Americans unaware of the impact it would have in future.

Flashback...Sep 11, 2090…

"My fellow Americans..." President Larry Getman's solemn voice could be heard on the colored screen with a family of four sitting on a couch. Leaning against Jake's chest, Nora had a little girl sleeping on her lap. Her other kid, Sean was sitting on the floor. No doubt looking bored and impatient as he wanted to watch the night-time cartoon about Silver Shroud and Lady Mystery.

"Not yet, son." Jake said, "Mr. President got more to say, let's listen. Should be only few more minutes."

"But-!" Sean made a protesting noise.

"Shh! Quiet!" Father hushed son with a shushing gesture as the US President spoke with his voice distorted, "-before you all...to tell you the truth that you and I...have been ignoring."

Huh?

Nora lifted her head off her husband's chest, adjusting her sitting while being careful not to wake her sleeping daughter up.

"The truth that you and I need to acknowledge..."

Nora and Jake glanced at each other, mirroring each other's puzzlement. Mentally asking the same question. The truth? What truth?

"Yes, my fellow Americans…The truth has been with us and right in front of us."

"The hell is he talking about?" Jake muttered with Nora shushing him while covering Anna's ears before shushing Sean who just wanted to watch the night-time cartoon show.

"-motion affecting million Americans like you and I. And yet, we have chosen to ignore it. We have chosen to be blind. We have voluntarily-"

Nora listened intently, wondering where is this going? What is President Getman talking about?

The family TV's screen showed a zoom-in on the US President. Showing his hazel eyes being keen and yet, have the sign of realizing something that the Hector family couldn't be sure. The screen zoomed out a little, displaying the President leaning his hands against the podium.

Dropping the bombshell that nobody has expected.

Not only on the Hector family…

Not only on people living in Arlington, Virginia…

But on the whole United States of America whose people were watching and listening.

The Enclave is real.

President Larry Getman himself has verbally acknowledged and confirmed the existence of what many people thought to be nonsense. Nothing but a joke that has been over-used in several different newspapers and on few radios in similar manner as done for the Zetan aliens. Nothing but a frivolous thing that parents say to their children so they'll behave or the Enclave bogey monsters will come into their bedroom and snatch them away for bad behavior such as refusing to eat vegetable.

Few seconds later and just when Sean was about to demand for the TV remote, the sound of gunshot was heard. Both Jake and Nora have jolted out of shock and surprise. The US President was shown with a hole in his forehead as he fell away from the podium, the people at the speech were heard screaming in terror and the camera was shaking around.

Recording the chaos with a glimpse of Secret Service agents rushing to where the US President fell and the police was seen, trying to get the attendees to disperse orderly.

The people's scream and the jolt made by Nora woke Anna up scared. Nora gently turned her daughter around in face to face, preventing her from looking at the TV. Jake pulled Sean to stand up, holding him. Telling him not to look.

Despite being shocked, Nora and Jake chose not to change the channel. They have to know and see what happened.

"Wh-wh-what is that? What happen?" Sean was in full blown shock. His young mind couldn't process as he saw the US President whom he and every other children have been told to be the most powerful person in the whole country with huge responsibility has just got shot.

The last thing the Hector family saw before the camera shut off was a number of Secret Service agents in their black suit already rushing with their pistol out with one firing.

Flashback end…

The whole United States of America got hit with wave of shock and disbelief. Whether the American people like him or not, Larry Getman was their leader who has been assassinated on national television. His final words before his death have invited the chaos. Shortly, his death has been officially confirmed.

The consequences have been explosively dire. Larry Getman's last words have been viewed by the future historians as a gift and a curse to the American people.

The US President's death has gifted the Enclave to America as a scapegoat for everything for being the traitors to the United States of America. Akin to presenting a lamb and condemning it to be responsible for countless deaths, diseases, and destruction. At the same time, Getman cursed America with increased fear and paranoia with the people blaming President Getman's death on the Enclave because of the timing. It has been widely assumed someone affiliated with the Enclave assassinated the President before he could say more.

Not long after the camera went off, Jake received a call from his workplace to answer emergency with the hospital expecting a surge of patients since the police and the National Guards and Army no doubt have been deployed nation-wide after the President's assassination.

The riots immediately broke out on massive scale with a collective sense of paranoia.

Immediately started with fear.

That fear quickly turned into anger.

What came forth was violence.

A lot of violence.

September 2090 has been pure cacophony of chaos, confusion, violence, and victimization. Many have marked it as beginning of the Enclave Scare when the US public started to treat the Enclave seriously, no longer a make-believe.

Right away, the word "Enclave" became a very popular buzzword for the Americans to use when describing someone or something they don't like. Nora heard so many examples of how people said "the Enclave" as a curse or to condemn someone or something. Thanks to Getman's last word, saying "the Enclave" is viewed as a word describing someone or something "Un-American".

"The prices have been going up! It's the Enclave's fault! They want to starve us and destroy America!"

"The war in damn Mexico and South America took too long! Damn Enclave must behind this! Wasting taxpayers' money and sabotaging many good American men and women! Mark my words!"

"I can't afford rent and can't use my bike to commute to work! Fuck you, Enclave!"

"Damn robots taking our job! Must be part of the Enclave's plot to destroy America through unemployment and goddamn price increase! They must've invented the shrink-inflation!"

"Children, eat your vegetable or the Enclave will come and take you away!"

"Hey, Mr. Jeromo has been complaining about our work performance and thinking about firing us, he must be in part of the Enclave! Seeking to imprison and harm us and our family so we can't have our happiness!"

"Selling drugs to children? Must be Enclave bastard! Get em before the Enclave poison our children!"

"No wonder I lost my case against my former workplace. It's because of the Enclave! They hate us workers even when we have been breaking our back every single day!"

"Mr. Wilson has been mowing his lawn every single Monday at 5 AM! Damn old fart must be Enclave! Fuck you Mr. Wilson! Fuck your Un-American lawn mower!"

Followed by something petty or trivial that everyday Americans could think of to blame the Enclave, the source of their whole misery and hardship.

Knowing the riot breaking out nation-wide with how the deceased President invited chaos, Nora didn't take Sean to school on Monday. She would later learned that the elementary school and others have shut down temporarily with the sign citing safety reason and telling parents to keep children at home and keep watch for the schoolwork and homework that'll be mailed by the volunteers.

Jake has been constantly at the hospital to join fellow doctors and nurses tending the wounded police officers from their riot control duty and coming home for three to five hours of sleep and eating. He has spoken quietly to Nora about how bad the Arlington riots and clashing were. Not as bad as the one in Boston. Already, the first hour saw fifty deaths with the gun owners in Boston going on spontaneous witch hunt and killing the suspected gangsters and drug sellers who chose bad time to be on the street.

The Arlington firefighters too responded to the call when two days later, few fusion-powered cars exploded. Killing nearby people that raised fear but invited more of the residents' rage. Fueling their paranoia as the fire figuratively and literally spread throughout the neighborhood in Boston.

Blaming the Enclave for making America like this.

As more and more detail on the Enclave becoming available to the public on various platforms such as newspapers, radios, and TVs with the US government attempting to get control of the US population, the witch hunt targets expanded from the criminals and corporate manager to even an average joe that nobody like. Soon, the news would cover the several people being arrested for their alleged Enclave membership and conspiracy against America.

The Enclave.

The traitors to America and its people.

Responsible for causing misery and suffering to the American people. After all, Larry Getman said it on the national TVs before getting assassinated. When the US government revealed who killed the President, it was met with an uproar and greater distrust toward the police who like the US military haven't been popular with its draconian measures to suppress the riots from late 2050s to present.

It was one of the police detail named Robert O. Johns who was supposed to neutralize any threat to the President but instead, assassinated him with a sniper rifle. The reveal about the Enclave has opened more of gateway to Hell for the law enforcement and National Guards nation-wide.

The Vice President who got sworn in as the new President, Manfred "Manny" Hunt made firm promise to punish Robert Johns to the fullest and harshest extent of the law as well as rooting out "every single bit of the Enclave's treasonous presence". The new President has a plan to do exactly that plus more all in the name of America's safety, security, and order.

Hunt's words didn't help the police and US military much as the US public got even more paranoid. President Hunt has proven to be a very heavy-handed leader compared to Getman and that was an accomplishment.

"Mom? Mom? Did you hear my question?" Sean poked his mother's left arm.

"Yes Sean, I heard your question." Nora answered, "I'm thinking how to explain this in a way you'll understand."

Nora wished she could tell Sean not worry about that along with politics. Matter of fact, Sean shouldn't worry about political issues and the ugly side of life. Not to say Nora and Jake shy from discussing US government with Sean usually on quizzing and answering to satisfy a child's innocent curiosity, the parents encouraged Sean to be engaging for fun and letting him to slowly form his own thoughts that'll shape how he'll lives as an adult. But this time, Sean asked why someone would kill the President. Nora pressed her lips together when Sean wore an expectant look, waiting for answer. His pencil has been laid down on his homework. She could see his handwriting scribbled on paper, answering elementary level questions.

The schools sadly proven themselves not immune to the "Enclave" buzzword. With the children's imagination and perhaps, teachers' loose opinions...

Off course, Nora has no plan to frighten her son with graphic detail and complicated political mess. He's only 8 years old sweet little boy so best to use a simple and age-appropriate language while avoiding overwhelming the child with too much information.

"Oh, I know..." Nora thought with a figurative light-bulb, "I'll start with something very simple."

With the idea forming in her mind, Nora said, "Sean, let's sit on the couch."

It was one of the hardest conversations for Nora. Going over what Sean remembered with how worried and scared mom and dad look. Sean recalled how sudden and terrifying the gunshot sounded before expressing his fear of dad getting hurt or worse. What if someone shot dad? Sean has heard how angry some neighbors were with the hospital and has put two things together. He later expressed his fear of being hurt with the schools closing out of concern over children's safety. After assuring her son that he and Anna will still be safe and protected, Nora felt relieved that the holiday special cartoon is still playing on the TV, capturing Sean's attention. Taking his young mind away from a heavy topic and into colorful world of superheroes.

Inwardly, Nora also felt sad that her children will still grow up and eventually learn that underneath the colorful world, there is ugliness that all adults know. Sean would be crushed upon learning that the superheroes don't exist in real life. For now, Nora will continue to shield Sean and Anna so they can enjoy their childhood as normal as possible.

Nora shivered a little, feeling a chill. Well, it is cold in Virginia. Perhaps, the Hector family should've moved further south for warmer weather. The weather has been crazy with more hails and flash freezing. Made the Protectrons and General Atomics robots popular with their internal temperature.

"What I would do for a Mister Handy..." Nora mentally said to no one but herself.

"MOMMY!" Nora heard Anna calling for her.

Oh yes, she got cola party appointment with Anna and Cola.

"Can't miss that." Nora thought, forgetting to make a phone call as she made her way through the hallway, catching a glimpse of her Juris Doctor degree on the wall. Remembering how it took her five years to obtain JD as a part-time student. It was tough, having to manage time between education, part-time job, and free time but Nora got her JD in 2078. Sure, it would've been nice to obtain her JD as a full time student in 3 years after completing 4 years college but Nora didn't regret it.

"Thanks God for bar reciprocity. I can transfer my license from Massachusetts to Virginia." Nora briefly strolled down a memory lane of meeting Jake Hector. Developing their friendship that would evolve into one of romantic nature in 2079 after Jake's close call with death in 2078.

Followed by marriage and conceiving Sean. Nora had initially wanted her son to be named Shaun (S-H-A-U-N) while Jake preferred Sean (S-E-A-N) because it's one less letter and spelled more..."intellectual". Jake's word, not Nora's. It took a while before Nora agreed to go with "Sean" and Jake promised to let Nora pick Sean's middle name and second child's whole name.

Nora chose Anna for girl or Andrew for boy. When she gave a birth to a second baby, the doctor announced "It's a girl! Congratulation, Mrs. Hector!" as if Nora won a lottery with her newborn girl screaming her tiny lungs out for the whole world to hear.

Well no more children, Nora said and Jake agreed.

Honestly, it's kind of weird how she, Jake, and children all have first name that's 4 letters long. But again, the man Nora used to date also has four letters long first name.

Nate.

Nate Thompson.

That name is still lingering in her head. It hasn't been easy to forget the handsome Army man she met just two years before she got her bachelor degree.

Flashback...2071…At Nora's work...Women restroom...

Two young women could be seen standing in front of the mirror and sink with one having short brown hair and dressed in work uniform while other having blond ponytail dressed in casual outfit with round rim glasses. Fixing her ponytail, the blond one suddenly said, "James Elswood from business management class got shot to death last week."

"Ugh April!" A 20 years old brown hair woman snapped, "Must you start conversation like this?"

"What?" April shifted her eyes to look at her friend on the mirror.

"Lately, it's been 'that pal from physics class died last month' or 'that gal from statistic course died last week'-"

"Well, I don't always-"

"Ok not always but you've been going on about deaths and riots. Even aliens! What happen to the happy topics?"

"What's wrong with aliens? I know you don't believe in aliens but they're pretty rad, Nora!" April put her hands on her hips, "Do you know there's a sighting-?"

"Nothing wrong with that." Nora interrupted her friend doubling as classmate and roommate, "Don't look at me like that. I'm not trying to be a wet rag."

"Could've fooled me. You've been studying and working hard." April rolled her eyes before scooting closer to Nora to fix her hair and pick up a short loose red string. Smirking, April dangled the string for Nora to see.

"Has that been-? Oh thanks." Nora smiled before checking her watch, "Ok, I need to start my shift now."

"Alrighty," April patted Nora's back and was about to exit out but paused, "Oh Nora, you're coming to the party, right?"

"What party?" Nora asked as she fixed her pant.

"The party at the Alpha Beta Charlie House! It's tonight at 8 PM!"

"April, today is Thursday." Nora deadpanned, "I get off at 8. Why are they having-?"

"HEY!"

Both young ladies jolted to see a stern man who's Nora's manager named Kevin standing with the door opened, "Nora, what are you doing? Come out and help the customers! Bob's being swamped at the cashier! Let's go!"

Without waiting for Nora's response, Kevin moved out of sight. Letting the door closed on its own. Nora glanced at April to say while hurriedly moving toward the door to open it, "I gotta go but have fun at the par-!"

THUD!

"Ugh!"

Nora froze upon feeling the door hitting someone possibly a customer as April winced and whispered unhelpfully, "Hope that's not your manager. Or a customer."

Shooting her friend an exasperated look, Nora walked out of the restroom and around its door to see a man rubbing his forehead. Maybe few years older, Nora mentally estimated as she wore an apologetic face.

"Oh I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to hit you." Nora apologized while checking the man's face for any kind of bruise or mark. Oh God, hope she doesn't get fired for this.

The man waved Nora off while shaking his head, blinking and replying, "Yeah I'm fine-"

Upon seeing Nora's concerned face, the man froze with his dark chocolate eyes gazing into a woman's chocolate eyes. Gazing with his facial expression frozen as if he's entranced.

"Why is he looking at me like that?" Nora wondered, feeling her own face to see if she missed anything back in the restroom. She did wash her face after changing into her uniform.

"He sure look handsome. Goofy but handsome." Nora thought, "Ooo, why my face feeling warmer?"

"Is umm is there something wrong, sir?" Nora finally asked after what it felt eternity of staring contest with a man who look to be trying to see her soul. No response so Nora snapped her fingers.

"Hello? Sir, are you alright?"

Snap! Snap!

"Huh?" The man blinked, putting his hand down from his forehead. "Oh! Yeah yeah yeah...I'm fine. I am now." He flashed a smile at Nora.

"Oh my. He's smiling at me."

Behind Nora, April discretely whispered, "Now you have better reason for not coming to the party." That earned her a look of annoyance from Nora. Feeling pleased, April walked out of the store.

"Nora!" Kevin came back with aggravated face, "What are you doing? Flirting with a customer?"

Before Nora could respond, the man sharply answered, "Excuse me sir, she is answering my question."

Looking suspicious, Kevin asked, "Question about what?"

"About the specific magazine I'm looking for." Nora was impressed with how straight the man's face look.

"Did you get what you're looking for?" Kevin crossed his arms.

"She was about to but you didn't let her." The man sounded displeased.

"Fine. Nora, assist him then the other customers. I got important phone call to make." Kevin flipped his hands in air, walking away. Presumably heading to his office to use his telephone. Muttering something about incorrect tax information.

"Uh thanks." Nora muttered, "You didn't have to do that."

"I know." The man smiled awkwardly before clearing his throat, "Actually, I do need your assistance, seeing you work here. I'm trying to find a present for my mother's birthday and..."

Flashback end…

After helping him finding a suitable item to purchase, the man later introduced himself "Nate" before asking Nora if she's free tomorrow or on Saturday to have lunch at a diner. Surprising herself, Nora said yes instead of "Sorry, no. I have a lot of studying for the big tests next week" or "No, I'm not interested".

At first, Nora thought about not meeting Nate at one of the local diners as she only agreed to avoid having to deal with upset male customer. But Nora decided she might've well get free lunch despite the potentially boring date. Not to mention she had her .38 revolver for self-protection as a gift from her father, a respectable lawyer and avid hunter. Her initial assumption was wrong and Nora was amazed that the lunch went well with engaging conversation. Nate was little rough in the beginning and did fumbled but he made quick recovery and even exceed Nora's expectation.

Making her laugh with seemly natural sense of humor and sarcasm. Before Nora knew it, she found herself agreeing to the second date and afterward to establish the common ground. Learning more and more about Nate such as serving in the US Army after enlisting it immediately upon gradating from high school at age 18 and often traveling to Boston to visit his parents and brother.

Nate said he wanted to follow in his father's, grandfather's, and ancestors' footstep since his family has long history of serving in the US military since WWII and even WWI! Nora remembered how proud Nate look of that fact despite the negative view on the US military with its roles in suppressing the protesters and rioters when the police was being stretched thin and wide. When the service members were called the government attack dogs and murderers instead of valiant patriots selflessly serving the country.

In return, Nora told Nate about her family and her dream of becoming a lawyer to serve the American justice. Doing her part to protect the innocents from wrongful convictions and such. Nate had nothing but encouragement and support.

"It was amazing how long our relationship lasted more than two months when Nate had to return to his duty station. There, we frequently exchanged letters." Nora didn't think the long distance relationship work but it held. Granted, Nate occasionally took long time to reply due to the nature of his work.

Nate had taken leave to attend her graduation ceremony in 2073! Oh, that was sweet of him...

A faint smile of sadness formed on her face before fading away as she thought how there was a potential that she and Nate could get married once she get her bachelor degree. Once she get her JD, she and Nate could have a kid or two.

Unfortunately, that train to the desired future got derailed. Nora closed her eyes, thinking about graduating with her bachelor degree. That day was when Nora introduced Nate to her parents for the very first time.

Her parents have been receptive and warm to Nate. How could they not? Nate look very handsome in suit and tie. Gave her father a very firm handshake and even made him laugh.

But then it went downhill after Nora's parents invited Nate over for post-graduation lunch at their house. In the midst of casual conversation that was more like an interview, Nora's father asked Nate about his job and without hesitation, Nate had said, "Serving in the US Army, Mr. Smithers."

That was wrong thing to say.

Nora's mother went berserk and chased Nate out of the house by screaming her head off and waving a kitchen knife like a mad witch. Threatening to inflict unspeakable body harm without caring about the consequences.

In contrast, father didn't do anything other than holding his wife back. Shortly after driving Nate out of the house, mother had demanded Nora to break up with Nate. From there, Nora and mother had a big fight before mother broke down, sobbing with father explaining that upset Nora as her parents were going to hold off by a week or two to avoid ruining Nora's graduation.

How could they withhold that information from Nora? Just as with her mother, she has-no had close relationship with her maternal uncle, Joseph Evans and cousin, Joshua Evans. Living in New York City.

Uncle Joseph and Joshua have been killed during what it was initially a peaceful protest. Because the police was already stretching thin and wide, the mayor had called for military support. Whether it was a result of miscommunication or panicking with assumption on the protesters' part, the military gunned down every single protester including Joseph and Joshua. Father said Uncle Joseph's now widow had called and tearfully informed her sister-in-law.

Nora couldn't believe her mother's reaction. Yes, she was saddened by her uncle's and cousin's death but for her parents to treat Nate like he's guilty for serving in the US Army? Treating Nate as if he was responsible for the death of Nora's relatives? Nora already knew how bad life can get with the resources scarcity and struggling economy as she had to get a part time job to help pay off a portion of her college tuition not covered by her scholarship and her parents.

The conversation with Nate at the park in the aftermath was solemn. She remembered how hard it was on herself and Nate. Her parents had given her an ultimatum with severe consequence.

Either break up with Nate to continue education into Juris Doctor program.

Or…

Stay with Nate and be permanently cut off from her family with a good-bye to her future plan of getting a Juris Doctor degree.

There was a third choice but Nate refused to go with it. He wasn't a fan of doing secret relationship and argued Nora to stick with her goal of becoming a lawyer. To him, it wasn't fair for Nora having to choose one and education was more important. Said he's willing to wait until Nora get her JD and a job so they can one day get married and maybe, her parents will later hopefully be amiable and attend the wedding.

...Hopefully...That was the key word.

Despite Nate's assurance and understanding, Nora saw how...hurt he was. She couldn't forget that feeling from watching Nate's back as he had to get ready to go back to his duty station. Walking away with his hands in his pockets. It was as if she was watching Nate was walking into an ocean to drown himself.

"If only I hadn't let him go that night." Nora felt a pang of regret. What if she ran after him and said more? Maybe few more words could've made a difference or maybe not. No point in dwelling on it now, what's done is done.

Since that time, Nora and Nate haven't communicate with each other as agreed. Well, Nora tried in secret with the phone calls and writing letters but she didn't get any response.

No letter from him.

No call answered.

No "I'm still alive and doing ok".

Nothing. Not a single word from Nate Thompson. Nora wasn't sure if her mails reached to Nate or not.

Nora paid attention to the news and watched the US military becoming more and more ruthless. Hearing about the "Un-Americans" getting rounded up to be sent to the camps or correctional facilities. Sometime gunning them without leaving a survivor where their corpse will be picked up and toss into the trunk as if they were garbage.

Her parents' contempt, disgust, and loathing for the US military didn't subside. Even when there were positive news about the US military. To them, the bad outweigh the good. Nora knew the military has good people but some of her peers acted as if the military members stopped being human. The US military reputation continued to have mixed reputation among the US public, considering people still enlisting during the Mexican Conflict and the clash with the Canadian resistance.

It wasn't until 2077 Nora saw how much Nate changed when they unexpectedly ran into each other on the street. Upon seeing Nate's still handsome but gaunt face, Nora could barely stopped herself from saying "God, what happened to you?"

Nate still didn't want to say anything about where he has been stationed but had reluctantly agreed to catch up. Although Nora saw Nate's emotional scars and how much they weighted on him during his leaves, she was horrified to see how much his scars have grown. How his voice was laced with self-loathing with dark sarcasm.

How dark and disturbing his eyes look.

Nate became a bitter and cynical man.

A changed man.

At that time, Nora was almost done with her JD as a part-time student with 1 more year left. Despite her parents' strong negative reservation still going strong, Nora had hoped to rekindle the flame of their relationship but Nate put a stop to it with a different feeling on his face.

Remorse.

He had accepted his re-assignment not to Boston or anywhere in the US. He's going to Mexico to fight in the Mexican Conflict that was heating up. However that wasn't the only reason why Nate was refusing to rekindle the relationship as he explained how he had been thinking and even admitting he had received and read Nora's letters but chose not to reply.

She couldn't believe it. She just couldn't believe it. How...How could Nate read her letters and not respond? And all those phone calls...A simple "I'm alright" would've been enough for Nora! No, just hearing his voice would've been great!

And this...this...

"Nate Thompson...You bastard...You selfish bastard!"

That was Nora's last words to Nate who simply replied, "I know…I must get going. Remember what I said."

After that, Nate walked away. Leaving Nora alone with her emotions.

Nowadays, Nora no longer hold any ill feeling toward her former love for telling her to move and find somebody else as she has matured and continued to focus on her goals. She just wished Nate didn't died in Feb 2078, fighting the Mexicano Front. Nate's brother told Nora it was a make-shift bomb that killed Nate and his body couldn't be recovered as a whole so it got cremated by the US Army before mailing the ashes in a box to a bereavement who hand delivered it to Nate's parents.

Not to say she regretted falling in love with another man. She certainly doesn't regret having two beautiful children with Jake Hector. Nora never thought she would fall in love for the third time after Nate but she did.

Jake Hector…

Whom Nora met through a mutual friend and bonded over superhero comics and several things in 2076. It was he who lent his shoulder to Nora over the news of Nate's death. That friendship eventually bloomed into romance in 2079, much to her parents' approval. God, Nora had a lot of feelings about her parents but again, she grew up. There wasn't any point holding onto negative emotions as she can't stay in the past, she must move on and live to find her own happiness.

Jake Hector was and still is an incredible man in his own way with his keen understanding and patience while being few years older than Nora. Firm in his belief as a doctor in serving and saving the American people. Jake wasn't afraid to roll up his sleeves to do what must be done to save the patients whether they're police, rioter, or citizen who got caught in crossfire.

Crimes in Boston and nearby surrounding have been worrisome and crazy ever since a well-known criminal named Eddie Winter got murdered on the street in broad daylight by a man named Nick Valentine in 2078. Out of vengeance and personal justice for the loss of his lover according to the newspaper but the aftermath hasn't been pretty for Valentine with how Boston's District Attorney and Boston Police figuratively tore Valentine apart with condemnation and charges.

Privately, Nora felt bad for Valentine after seeing how the trial went.

When she was living in Boston, Nora was getting started and dealing with the civil matter cases only. The Valentine case was a criminal case. Or rather, an aquarium with one fish and multiple hungry sharks. The Valentine trial was actually short with the defendant's weak defense thanks to the attorney who practically threw a towel. The attorney might've well as just not bother to show up in the court to achieve the same sentence.

There wasn't any hope of winning-no, surviving for Valentine.

Nora had seen how broken and despondent Valentine was with the grim faced police officers escorting him to the courthouse on black and white television. People who sympathized with Valentine have rioted over the indifferent judge sentencing Valentine to lifetime imprisonment for jeopardizing the Boston police's public image and operations. The Post-Valentine Trial Riot of 2078 had attracted the Winter Gang and the other crime families to cause more problem for the Boston police force, resulting in the National Guard assistance.

Jake had nearly died when he was tending to one of the vengeful Winter thugs who got wounded during the arrest and managed to snatch his police escort's gun. If it wasn't for his quick body turn, Jake's heart would've been shot that would certainly prevent Sean and Anna being born. Fortunately, the bullet missed Jake's heart. It was...memorable and intense conversation with Jake upon his recovery, expressing how he thought he was at the death's doorstep, seeing ethereal figures, light, and stuffs that could be written as a fantasy book.

On March 18, 2080, Nora Smithers became Nora Hector when she married Jake Hector with their respective parents and family members attending. After that, the newly wedded couple went on honeymoon to Arlington, Virginia where they fell in love with the place.

Although Jake didn't want to leave, it has been decided that Boston and its volatile environment wasn't a suitable place to raise a child. There was just...too much negativity in Massachusetts and Jake managed to get a job at the hospital in Arlington before Sean's birth in 2082. Four years later, the Hector couple have Anna.

"MMMOOOOOMMY!" Anna's voice bought Nora back to reality.

"I'm coming, sweetie!" Nora called out as she picked up her pace. When she entered Anna's room, Nora could see a 4 years old girl pouting at her for taking too long to get here. Changing her expression to one of apologetic, Nora opened her mouth while Anna impatiently gestured with a worn out teacup that Nora bought it from a thrift shop along with toy set.

"Her room need cleaning." Nora noted the condition of her daughter's room. Well, Anna did good job of making her little bed. Nora went there to tidy it up more before peering through the window. Observing the busy street.

People walking…

A very few cars rolling…

An unidentifiable man in tan trench coat and hat staring directly at her…

Robots patrolling-

Huh?

Blinking, Nora shifted her eyes back to where she saw a stranger in tan trench coat but doesn't see him. Where did-

"MOMMY! Let's play!"

"Oh Anna, did I make you-"

In New World...Falmart...American Sadera…

"-wait too long!" Bozes threw her hands up out of frustration, "We've been waiting for eternity!"

Tina rolled her eyes at her friend's theatrics, saying, "Don't be dramatic, Bozes. It's only been 20 minutes. We got here early. Our train will not speed up just because you're impatient and wanting to get away from your new boyfriend."

"He's not my boyfriend! And he'll never be! He's nothing but a slimy womanizer. I'm surprised they let him join our home's very first professional baseball team for the American Sadera Baseball League." Bozes grimaced with a shudder that made Tina laugh, earning herself a glare. "Don't laugh, think how he'll represent our home if he behave like that in...Rondel! Italica! And others!"

"Don't be like that, you'll hurt Zachery's feeling." Tina said playfully, "Weren't you swooning-" At this, Tina held her hands together and made a dreamy sigh before attempting to replicate her friend's voice in completely inaccurate manner, "Oh, Zachery Augustus...he's so handsome, dashing, and local man with marvelous blond hair that matches mine. Oh, he has beautiful red eyes that strangely and coincidentally remind me of my best friend who also has beautiful-"

"Oh, you're not my best friend." Bozes said with her face straight, "And who say you have beautiful eyes?"

"Excuse me? Bozes, I find that to be...outrageous!" Tina wore mock offended look, "For your information, everybody! You have to be blind not see the beauty of my eyes." Tina gestured her eyes as if she's presenting a key to the mythical fountain of youth.

"Hmm..." Bozes pretended to be using a telescope with her hands to look at Tina's eyes for 10 seconds before saying, "No. I still don't see it."

Both young ladies stared at each other with straight face before bursting out laughing as they stood at the train station in Liberty City. A home both ladies visited for their 2-week leave to see their respective family and friends as well as spending time together.

It has been...relaxing and great to see old friends from childhood that went on their own path not of military. Taking their mind off the tiring and grisly things they've seen in eastern Falmart as Tina and Bozes did a lot of activities such as…

Exploring their home…Seeing how much it has changed since their deployment...

Eating local food and trying out new food...Something that military could never replicate.

Visiting the newly built Recreational Simulation Center open to USAF and American Sadera citizens to try the simulation pod...Such technology blew Tina's mind. Seeing America in its glory was surreal...Tina hoped to visit the real America one day. Washington D.C and New York City look incredible and insane with the buildings and number of people!

Watching baseball…Tina and Bozes have also participated in one baseball game. That was fun, got their mind off their...occupational work.

Watching Bozes dodging and rejecting the potential suitors by her traditionalist father who want her to get out of military and settle down after hearing her near-death experiences. As quick as bullets, Bozes figuratively shot down every single proposal set by her father. After experiencing the life of military, Bozes realized she gained the freedom from her old-fashioned parents and can find her own path.

Who knew following her best friend into the US military boot camp turned out to be a great idea of finding what she want to do with her life? Serving in the USAF and surviving their biggest battle 4 years ago made Tina and Bozes do a lot of thinking.

That was deep conversation last night. Bought a lot of new perspectives since Tina realized the drastic differences between American Sadera and eastern Falmart in term of life quality. Spending the majority of four years outside American Sadera in fighting and surviving, Tina gained greater appreciation toward everything she has in her life and being alive.

Education and knowledge.

Physical activities and military training including discipline and weapon handling.

Better opportunities for women.

She just wished her mother...is still alive. Not only to experience the American life but to see that the Americans aren't all bad as mother feared. Granted Tina had met some asshole Americans, she had also met many decent Americans who have grown used to living in Falmart.

Even her squad leader, Sgt. Nate Thompson is a decent man. Not a nice guy actually, he's an asshole but a decent kind of asshole who mentored Tina and Bozes for while. Thanks to him, Tina learned to shut a part of her brain to avoid being conflicted by the "moral ambiguity of violence" being inflicted on the living combatants such as the Coalition stragglers, the Band of Scars, the North Alliance, and the Remnant.

No, scratch the Remnant out. That faction need to be destroyed. Tina had no problem killing the Remnant assholes possessing inferior weaponry and armor but also possessing overzealous attitude toward the old religion.

They weren't afraid to scream "EMORY TAKE YOU!" and other religious stuffs.

Honestly, Tina doesn't remember much about the religion. Only vague detail from her mother about the multiple Gods and their mystical Apostles.

No matter...Where was she? Oh right, her squad leader.

At first, Tina wasn't really a fan of Sgt Thompson. After all, her first interaction with him was getting a sucker punch from him in the battlefield four years ago. But she let that go as it did save her life by bringing back her focus and avoid getting shot.

Sergeant Nate Thompson was rough, blunt, and harsh but nobody can deny him being a man of his words and sometime, a good listener. He hold everyone in Charlie East 16 squad accountable for their action and its consequences. Tina has seen how Sgt Thompson solve the problems and how he lead the squad even though some members weren't fan of Thompson's leadership. He proved himself capable and wasn't afraid admit his mistakes.

In his own way without using a colorful language, Sgt Thompson's approach on mistakes was "Mistake is your teacher that will constantly test you until you learn and adapt from it. You don't need to like it but do not deny or ignore your mistake."

Tina saw some truth in her squad leader's words and would argue it's applicable to the need to change and adapt as she saw the changes within the USAF. At least what she could see changes at the squad level and one or two levels above.

The new guns starting to replace the current ones with better design impacting the handling and reloading.

The new military fatigues and body armor paint with camouflage design to help the wearer blend in the surrounding better.

The replacement of the affectionately nicknamed "Donkey" APC model with a completely new design called the H-DATV pronounced as "H-Dave" with a silent T. Tina wasn't a fan of silent letter but spelling "H-Dave" has been deemed acceptable. H-DATV is supposed to stand for Heavy-Duty All Terrains Vehicle. The H-DATVs somewhat resembled the enemy humvee but bigger and have multiple variations with the H-Dave Assault Carrier having 105mm cannon or H-Dave HC (short for Heavy Carrier) having bigger body to hold more troops or more power armors.

What came along with the H-DATV was the smaller R-DATV. Pronounced as "R-Dave" and can be alternately spelled as "R-Dave", the R-DATV is short for Rapid Duty All Terrains Vehicle. Sgt Thompson and other older military members often described the R-DATV as a bastard byproduct of an enemy humvee seducing the USAF jeep. Despite being smaller than the H-Dave, the R-Dave too has its variations including the R-Dave Boomer, a scouting vehicle armed with Skinny Boy launcher Mk IIb so the scouts have the big boom to deal maximum damage as needed.

Sgt Thompson and others called it "aggressive scouting". Although the jeeps aren't going to be replaced entirely, what make the R-Dave better than jeeps is its ability to carry one or two power armors while still be able to travel fast. However, Tina want to know why do the scouts need power armor? She really want to know.

Sgt Thompson refused to answer, though Tina deduced he too has the same question.

Speaking of power armors, Tina heard the USAF planning to introduce a new power armor that's said to be better version of the T-51b PA just as how the T-60 PA is a better version of T-45d PA. The new power armor is supposedly number 70 something, Tina still doesn't understand how people assign number. Why do they assign the numbers and letters like that? Say, what happen to T-1 to T-44, T-46 to T-50, and so on?

But what does she know? Tina is just a grunt, not an engineer. All she know is the USAF learned a lot from the enemy Coalition. It was hard to forget how whispers get around within the army about the casualties due to the Coalition from other Earth packing stronger firepower than expected. It was thanks to the Coalition and its former base that all of those new things coming out to make the USAF more formidable than ever.

With everything the USAF introducing including the things called satellites launched 2 years ago, there will be no way the Coalition will know what hit them. Should another Gate arise and the Coalition dare to show its face in Falmart, the USAF will be more than ready and if necessary, push through through and into the enemy Earth.

It's a good thing in Tina's opinion because after spending 4 years in eastern Falmart, she was hoping the USAF to expand and bring the way of American life to the people. To show that the "Ameereekans" are good for the future. The people in western and eastern Falmart will be able to improve their lives with the new way to travel, communicate, and so many things the Americans have to offer.

Won't be simple, Tina knew that. It wasn't as if the opposing force will just stand by and let the USAF walk in without a single fight. There will be killing and violence unless the USAF give a demonstration that'll likely be effective since seeing is believing. She didn't like it but it must be done. The people cannot stay blissfully ignorant of nukes and their power.

Those stood in the way of American life improvement such as the traditionalists lingering in American Sadera and the hostile factions such as the Remnant...They all need to go away permanently. Without them, life in Falmart will surely improve by leap and beyond just as American Sadera did under the USAF control. Or so that's what Tina assumed and wanted for that to happen.

Off course that mean replacing the rulers with the new governors and military commanders. After all, monarchy is obsolete and has no place in the future.

The same can be said about slavery still existing. Especially the Remnant. Filled with nothing but slave-loving bastards. Such Un-American enemy doesn't deserves to continue its existence. People shouldn't casually sacrifice virgin girls for hope of victory against the USAF. That's no basis of winning a battle.

That's just barbaric and Un-American.

It's infuriating to see those still clinging onto slavery and religious sacrificial nonsense, refusing to see the new way.

The American way.

A Protectron with a hat walked by Tina and Bozes, announcing robotically, "The train will be arriving in 5 minutes."

"Well, back to reality." Bozes muttered as she grabbed her bag to pick it up from the ground. Her attitude switched to serious.

"Yeah." Tina shared her friend's feeling.

Vacation is over, it's time to get back with their squad.

Shifting to over to different location...

"Well, Sgt Thompson. The last surgery is done. How do your arms feel?" A pristine white colored robot, Mister Orderly inquired with its optics gazing at the recently awakened patient.

Dressed in a patient gown, the man rolled his shoulders and arms, testing how they feel. Nate could see the healed signs of surgical cuts on his arms. His bones feel heavier but he could still move his arms alright so Nate informed Mister Orderly.

"That is to be expected, sergeant. Now how about your spine? Arch your back backward without falling. We want to make sure it is still functional and flexible."

Nate did that, experiencing no cramp or any discomfort. Later, he got told to stand up to bend his knees. Feeling heavier than he remembered before undergoing a "preventive" surgery. He could see more signs of surgery on his legs, also healing.

Followed by optical exam with annoyingly bright light blasting Nate's eyeballs.

"Good. Your eyes are still in working order. Statistically speaking, I have calculated 55% chance of you becoming blind plus 32.5% chance of your right lung falling apart before going through the surgery. Fortunately you made it through without an issue. Now you know the drill, sergeant. Proceed to the room on your left for your physical therapy and testing." Mister Orderly ordered with one of its arms pointing to its right where a white door with small window located. Nate caught a glimpse of few men walking by in their patient gowns.

"Just like last time and before, you will be asked a series of questions upon your arrival, Sgt Thompson."

"Geez wonderful. Nothing like getting 50 questions after waking up from damn surgery after damn surgery." Nate sarcastically said in his mind. "This better be worth it. I filled 40 damn pages of paperwork to become a damn guinea pig for the doctors to cut me up and give me enhancements."

With how the paperwork worded before undergoing a number of surgeries, he might've well signed away his soul to get rid of minor inconveniences. But know what? Why not? Nate couldn't see himself leaving military anyway.

What's he going to do? Become a full-time baseball coach? A distant dream entered his mind and quickly went away.

Just like his memory of home…

Memory of his parents and brother…

Memory of...Nora and...his mistakes...

He might've well prolonged his military service for as long as he could. He has no desire to be in the reserve.

Truthfully when he came to the facility close to Knappnai, Nate was glad to see he wasn't the only test subject as he met dozen volunteers all same or close to his age. They too have problems arise from growing old, approaching age 40 or 50. Just like Nate, they too don't have dream or plan outside military and have gotten used to the battlefield. Comforted by familiarity being the smell of gunpowder and the sound of gunfire.

Their gun as their faithful companion. Ok, that's going too far since the USAF is pushing new guns out along with the armors…

Robots...

Vehicles…

Aircraft…

Ever since the small conflict with the Coalition from different Earth, the New World Command suddenly jammed another straw into a drink that's New World to suck more resources out. There was a whisper of how bad the losses the USAF suffered, worse than the official report.

For the last four years, Nate saw and heard how aggressive the USAF worked to recover not to the point where it was but to beyond. To be better than ever.

New faces became more common from the local population as more and more native humans and demihumans graduated from the boot camps. Additionally, America deployed new troops through the Gate. Hearing a whole bunch of same old shit.

Civil unrest? That's nothing new.

No more oil? That's to be expected.

Pissing contest between the US and China? Yeah, also expected.

New year, same shit.

But here in this world, Nate spent 4 years of doing something new with his new assigned squad after being told by an officer, "Sgt Nate Thompson, your squad got blown up and died. No survivor except you. Anyway, you're leading Charlie East 16 now since there's a vacancy."

Patrolling…

Killing the muties…

Chasing after some stragglers…

Picking off few wizards and witches while doing a manhunt for a mage responsible for the landslide…The intel stated it was a human woman with brown hair.

Listening to engineers and scientists bitching and admiring shits at the former Coalition base that has been re-named to "USAF Outboxer Base". It was named after how the enemy Coalition fought, comparing it to a boxer utilizing an out-boxer style with emphasis on keeping distance.

To stay out of opponent's reach.

To keep out of the USAF's reach in the Coalition's case. Until the USAF East Force slugged its way through and delivered a hard punch with few Skinny Boy nukes before swarming in like a boxer switching from slugger to swarmer boxing style to throw another punch after punch and then more punching before the Coalition boxer got away.

Crawling and bleeding with the USAF taking a short moment of rest before slowly pursuing.

Such name was designed to remind the USAF of how the Coalition fought and how much the East Force endured from the Coalition's punching.

"Or something like that." Sgt Thompson mused as he walked. Each step felt heavier but he could feel his joints being supported. Augmentative joint implants, Nate's mind said. Doing what they were designed to do.

Working in conjunction with other implants surgically installed inside his body as the good doctor informed Nate.

"Good doctor, my ass." Sgt Thompson remembered Dr. Woodruff's irritating know-it-all voice explaining the detail in simplest term that even a caveman could comprehend. To simply put, this surgery along with the previous surgeries were what the Project Autoshop about.

To turn veteran soldiers into super soldiers through cybernetic enhancement after years of studying and analyzing the non-humans in action. With the advancement in robotics thanks to some stupid company that start with O, the scientists got it all figured out. Or so that's what Dr. Woodruff said everytime Nate undergoes a surgery.

Oftenly, the good doctor forgot he was explaining the project to a grunt like him and started to sprout over-complicated words. Nate felt some words were made-up by Dr. Woodruff to make people feel stupid.

Thud!

Nate has just closed the door before watching six volunteers walking and doing their physical therapy with more Mister Orderlys monitoring them and giving instructions. Plus few humans in lab coat standing around with their clipboard, dotting things down.

"This room again...Hopefully, I can get back and see the result of my surgeries in field." Sgt Thompson noted, measuring the room's size and counting how many doors before being called by one of the white robots, "Ah, Sergeant Thompson! Good to see you again! I'm sure you're happy to be done with the surgeries, right? But first thing first."

The robot hovered to Sgt Thompson, addressing, "In 7 words or less, how do you feel? I have a list of questions you must answer. And then, a list of exercises for you to do. Don't worry, it's different kind of exercises. They shouldn't take too long compared to 3 days ago."

"Well, I feel fine. And it better not. I put in 2 weeks leave that will end-" Sgt Thompson paused, thinking, "Wait a minute, 3 days? I was told I would be out for 1 day and half." Nate tried to do quick calculation in his head but the robot replied cheerfully.

"Oh Sgt Thompson, you don't need to worry about that."

"What are you talking about?"

"We notified your superior and filed the paperwork. You have 1 extra week with us."

"Excuse me?"

"Question 2," Mister Orderly began another question as if Nate didn't say anything.

"Do you feel you can take on an American Lago in a fist fight and win?"

Nate stared at the robot before replying with his own question.

"...What the hell is American Lago?"

One of the doors opened and a young looking Warrior Bunny walked in with unhappy face. Wearing USAF fatigues, the demihuman impatiently demanded in perfect English, "Hey docs, how long are you going to make me wait?"

---

Author: Sorry I took long on this chapter. I took a break to enjoy holidays and got carried away with new video game. But here you go, finally get to see a small bit of Fallout world. Now repeat with me.

Enclave.

Conspiracy.

Riot.

Oh my.

No? Fine.

I was trying to show a slow transition of Fallout Earth from 1950s-ish futurism to 1970s-ish futurism while taking inspiration from 1970s characteristics with 1 step forward and 2 steps (maybe 1.5 steps) backward progress. I was hoping to show Fallout China and Soviet Union in this chapter but I will do that in next chapter.

Will the next chapter and afterward be as long as this and Ch.13? Well, no.