ARMS Helm's End: (Book 7)

by Stephen Arseneault

  Bax sat back as the broadcast came to an end. "Armstrong did a good job with that. Simple and direct. Easy for the masses of morons down there to comprehend. And respectful. I may just have a permanent place for him in my government."

  An order was given for a single Banshee to fly to the Retreat with the triumphant news.

  Bax sat in her chair. "Captain, take us down to the Hosh-Morgan headquarters. I'd like to talk to my chief manufacturing officer."

  The Fargo dropped through the atmosphere as a fireball, coming to rest a kilometer above the desired location.

  A comm was opened. A scowling Bannis Morgan showed on the display.

  Bax frowned. "Now, is that the greeting you should give your Empress?"

  "It's the greeting I would give to the insane person who wishes to be called Empress."

  "Hmm. Mr. Morgan, I believe that was intentionally disrespectful. Might I remind you that I am in control of the skies of Domicile, as well as the space surrounding it. With my word, your entire factory could be destroyed. Of course you know I don't want to do that for obvious reasons, but that doesn't mean I couldn't target your home.

  "I believe you're fond of your servant staff there. What is your household manager's name? Mini? You wouldn't want any harm to come to her would you?"

  "You're the devil, Baxter Rumford."

  "That's Empress Rumford from now on. Are we clear on that or do you need further encouragement?"

  Bannis returned a scowl. "We're clear."

  "Excellent. Now we can begin. Change all designs back to the unmanned Banshee production. Any ships currently in production will be turned over to me for disposition as I see fit. Any violation, any attempt to smuggle out parts, or any attempt to deceive me in any way will be met with a complete and utter annihilation of everyone you know. Including Goober here, Miss Freely, and the other morons that inhabit Midelon."

  "Gruberg? Can she do that?"

  "She can."

  Bax smiled. "There. Now that wasn't so hard was it? Put that order into effect immediately."

  Bannis opened a comm to his chief of staff before turning back. "It's done. Anything else?"

  "Yes. I'd like to see you go on an immediate hiring binge. Don't worry about the financing, the government funds will be made available to you within the day. I have a new goal for you."

  "And what would that be?"

  "How many Banshees can be produced in a month?"

  "Eight hundred now. Twelve hundred by the end of next month."

  Bax frowned. "That's a bit disappointing."

  "It's what I've had the resources to do."

  "Consider yourself a number one priority under my rule. For the next month I would like to see the production raised to eighteen hundred units, and in the six weeks following that three thousand. If given the resources, can that be done?"

  "It's possible."

  "Good. I'd like to see a plan put together that will bring manufacturing up to ten thousand units a month within six months. For every thousand over that quota there will be bonuses for all your employees. It's critical that we rebuild a fleet as quickly as possible. We know the Burrell are only two months away if they choose to send another fleet. And I believe the Frizoid to be an equal distance."

  "Ten thousand ships will hardly be enough to fend off another one of those fleets."

  "Which is why we will also be building the gamma ray missiles. I'd like to see ten of those produced for every Banshee we put out. Do you think that to be possible?"

  "It's possible," Bannis replied, "but we'll require a full commitment from our government."

  Bax smiled. "I'm giving that to you here and now, Mr. Morgan. Governor Armstrong will be directed to see that you are given everything you need. Everything. You will have no worries about government inspections or environmental concerns or anything of that nature. We have to build these ships and as many of them as we can. We're vulnerable right now. And that vulnerability leaves us open to annihilation or enslavement by others. Vulnerabilities I do not care to have."

  "Enslavement? Isn't that what you're offering us here today?"

  "Hardly. Should I get this commitment for our safety and security from all citizens now, I will repay it tenfold in the future as our fighting force is not only able to defend our worlds, but to also expand to others. It will be the Burrell and Frizoid citizens who will have to worry."

  "I see. And this grand vision is something you believe to be achievable?"

  "I certainly believe that within a year we could secure ourselves, yes. With another year of the same production, our conquests would certainly be enabled. And with the fleet being fully automated, no lives are put at risk."

  "Sounds a lot like the Emperor's vision."

  "Some of his points had merit. Where he lacked was in follow-through. I want to better everyone's lives. Initially it might take hard work to secure our future, but imagine an empire where wealth is brought in from outside, where farms and manufacturing are run by androids. Where Humans are left to delve into scientific research or entertainment, whichever they choose, because the majority of their time is leisure in nature.

  "I want a world where sport and knowledge are king, where hunger doesn't exist, where diseases are eliminated, and where the adventure of exploration and settlement is available to all. The production and use of the androids will make all this possible."

  "You pitch a good game, Miss Rumford. However, in the end, you will be deciding on what freedoms the rest of us have. People... Humans, don't like to be told what they can and cannot do. Most would go along with your plan. But there are always those who want to choose their own path."

  Bax smiled, "Those will be our explorers. They will have the freedom to make their own choices out in the stars. The only caveat would be that any systems claimed would be done in the name of the empire, for which they will receive support in terms of colony settlement and defense."

  "And what will become of those who don't subscribe to your Empire of Utopia?"

  "Punishment will be swift and harsh. Justice will be a deterrent to poor behavior and poorer choices. But there will also be reward for good behavior. And the people will have a leader whose monument built unto herself is the empire with its strength and wealth. I have no desire to build opulent palaces where I live to entertain the elite. I would much rather be out among the people who are building and expanding."

  Harris spoke up: "I think she's more comfortable around the bots. They do exactly as they're told without showing that troubling trait we call emotion."

  "Excess emotion is a sign of weakness. And, Goober, you would do well to hold your tongue. Outbursts that are intended to undermine my message will not be tolerated, even if done in jest."

  Bax looked directly into the comm camera. "Mr. Morgan, I trust you will follow my orders precisely. I personally came here to speak with you out of respect. You are a doer and not a dreamer. I need doers if we are to accomplish our security needs over the next year. Can I count on your full cooperation?"

  "You treat my people right and you'll have the cooperation you seek. While not thrilled at the prospect of an empire and an all-powerful head running that empire, I am all about securing Human existence in this galaxy. Treat us right and we'll build you the most powerful fleet this galaxy has ever seen."

  Bax grinned. "Now that was said with enthusiasm. You will have all the support you need, Mr. Morgan."

  The comm closed.

  Harris said, "Looks like you won him over."

  "He's a builder. It was an easy sale. If you keep him in materials he'll build you whatever you want. He's also the exact type of manager I'm looking for... for each of my projects. I want people who give feedback in terms of what they need to get the job done and not what can be done for them personally. Which reminds me, I need to set up a media campaign to inform the people of all the great things that are coming their way."

  "Fire up the old propaganda machine, huh?"

  Bax punched in co
ordinates for her next stop.

  A hail was opened with Fritz Romero. "Hello again, Mr. Romero."

  "Miss Rumford, or should I say Empress?"

  "Empress. And I've called upon you today to spearhead a new campaign. You'll be working with me personally to package and distribute my message to the masses. I want to project strength, but also kindness, a real caring for the security and prosperity of all Humans. I want them to believe the fruits of their hard labor over the coming year or two will be heavily rewarded."

  "I would suggest we begin with a short but personal message. We'll want to project strength and intelligence, but with a soft and comforting tone. Can I venture to guess you wish to begin this campaign immediately?"

  "You can. And name your budget. The funds will be made available."

  Bax turned to Harris as the comm closed. "I will have to say that for morons, you and Freely were able to surround yourself with competent people. I know I ripped on the Bolemans and Withrow, but even they excelled at what they did. I'm actually tempted to offer both of you positions in my administration. You have a knack for identifying and bringing in capable people. And people of integrity. Imagine the great things we could accomplish as a team."

  "So calling us morons is part of your sales pitch?"

  Bax waved. "You know that's only intended to get a rise out of you. If anything, it makes you pay attention to what it is I'm saying. Take a step back. Look at the big picture here. We’re Humans and we should be running this galaxy."

  "Forgive me for not being as enthusiastic about your vision. I've been known to say before, often to my own detriment, that you're an intelligent and capable individual. You do have a talent for leadership, and like Mr. Morgan, you put in the effort necessary to get the job done and to get it done well. But you're also a user. You see no problem in using others to get whatever it is you want. And until and unless you lose that trait, you'll never be as successful as you could be."

  "Well, Mr. Gruberg, that actually sounds as if you like me. Am I out of touch with that thought?"

  "Every person has some redeemable qualities. In the end, though, it's your actions that count. And your record of caring about others speaks for itself. You're about as caring for others as a blizzard come harvest. You leave death and destruction in your wake."

  "That was harsh. But I'll take it as solemn advice. Which gives me an idea. I could use a good dose of conscience now and again. Perhaps I'll make you an adviser. You see me doing something that you feel is remiss, you inform me of doing so. But that would have to come with good reasoning and suggested alternatives. You think that would be something you could handle?"

  "Telling you what to do? I could probably manage that."

  "Just keep in mind, this is not an unlimited license to criticize my efforts, or lack thereof. And it is only to be offered in private. No public displays of contention or disgust or outrage. Would that be something you would be willing to consider?"

  "I'll have to think on it."

  "Look at it as an opportunity for you to do some good. I may not take your advice, but you'll at least have the satisfaction of offering it. And as a first trial effort, what would you propose I do with the Biomarines?"

  "Give them their colony back. They worked hard to build that place to their liking. And I would give them advisory positions on your military council. We know how to conduct both offensive and defensive campaigns. We're patriotic. Give us a reason to fight alongside you and not with you or for you. You won't find any more loyal people than Bios. Give them respect and they'll return it twofold."

  Bax smiled. "Was that so hard? Simple, honest, actionable advice. I'll take that under consideration. Although... I may have trouble convincing Croft to vacate. He's grown very fond of the place."

  "You want the Bios on your side, you can't be taking from them. You'll want to offer them incentive. Show them the benefit of being loyal to you. And don't push the potential risk of being disloyal. They won't be accepting of any intimidation."

  "Again, sound advice. You see, you may not be able to change the situation, but you can have positive long-lasting effect."

  "I could hop over there and snap your neck."

  Bax frowned. "Wouldn't end well for you or anyone else. My minions have orders to destroy all Humans should anything bad befall me by Human hands. I die and you all die."

  "What's Croft think about that order?"

  "He doesn't particularly care for it, but accepts it. Gives him incentive to treat me right too."

  "You don't fully trust him, do you?"

  "With this much power? Why would I trust anyone besides me?"

  — Chapter 23 —

  * * *

  The next two days saw Baxter Rumford supporters coming out in force. The current government was turned into a transition government. Officeholders would remain for their terms, but with diminished and decreasing responsibilities and powers. Former cabinet positions would remain, but with powers granted by the Empress and Emperor.

  A new Congress of the people would be elected and given the responsibility of day-to-day lawmaking as before, but again with reduced powers, becoming more of a suggestive body than a dictatorial one. As a priority task, they would be responsible for rewriting the constitution, placing the rulers as the high authority, having the final say of law.

  Harris sat with his arms crossed. "You ever gonna leave this ship?"

  "Not until I feel a solid transition has occurred. Are you claustrophobic?"

  Harris chuckled. "No. But I do know that having a changing environment from time to time stimulates the mind. If I have a goal I want to accomplish, I'll stand on my head for a month if that's what it takes to get there. But there are always options."

  "Such as?"

  "Such as going down and addressing the Senate or the House. Pop in with a short, enthusiastic speech about your vision. Doing so on the spur of the moment allows you to move in and out without fear of an assassination. Any opposition won't have time to arrange it."

  "Hmm. Might be a valid suggestion. I'll have Fritz work up a five minute thriller of what I want for everyone."

  Bax stood and stared at the Biomarine for several seconds.

  "What?"

  "I continue to underestimate your worth. You laugh or say something inappropriate and untimely and then turn around only to deliver a diamond."

  "Easy to produce diamonds from the path of scorched carbon you leave behind wherever you go."

  "And there we have a perfect example. Your attempt at humor falls completely flat."

  A comm was opened to Bannis Morgan.

  Bax offered a smile. "Today is the day."

  Bannis shook his head. "Have been a few drawbacks to the switch-over. I made the command decision to halt production of the current set to your fully automated versions. I don't think you'll find willing pilots for the manned versions."

  "I have to say I'm not pleased with this development. I have seventy thousand androids that are capable of piloting the manned versions. I have no shortage of pilots."

  Bannis bowed. "My apologies, Empress. That consideration wasn't taken into account. The first delivery will be tomorrow. On a positive note, the production schedule for the fully automated versions will shift forward by a day."

  "What do our numbers look like for a delivery tomorrow?"

  "Seventy-two. With a hundred and sixteen more five days following that delivery. From there, our deliveries will begin to ramp up."

  "You getting all the support you need?"

  Bannis nodded. "We are. The elimination of government oversight of every aspect of production has been extremely helpful. I realize it has its place in a new or maturing industry, but in a case such as this, oversight only works to interfere with the process. You'll be taking delivery of high quality vessels."

  "And tomorrow is firm?"

  "It is."

  Several comms came in from Bax's trusted few. All operations were in-line with expectations. Power was unde
r consolidation in every government agency, with incentives promised to those whose transitions were going smoothly. Earlier in the day, Bax's surprise address of both houses of Congress was beginning to show in the polling data of Fritz Romero.

  A relentless barrage of infomercials hailing the positives of the government transition following the address saw to it the message being delivered was fully explained. Talk around the water cooler, as it was called, had been positive. News anchors eager to keep their jobs were extolling the virtues of the united government. Bax closed a comm with one of her new cabinet members.

  "This is all going better than expected. Maybe Domers aren't as dumb as I thought."

  Harris shook his head. "Even if you think they are, you should never say that out loud. Nothing will turn people away from you faster than the idea you have no respect for them."

  "Who's gonna know? You mention it to anyone and I'll just have you spaced."

  "What about your bot copilot sitting right there. You know it's recording everything you say."

  Bax turned. "Erase all recordings of my conversations except commands directed at you. And cease to record any of my conversations, including the words of people I'm conversing with. Relay that same order to all androids as soon as possible."

  The bot replied, "Recordings have been eliminated. Local staff have been informed. Remaining staff will require leaving negated space."

  "When will that field fully collapse?"

  "Anticipated collapse is in twenty-eight hours, twelve minutes."

  Bax sighed. "I’ll be glad to be rid of that hindrance."

  Harris said, "You're only about twenty minutes from the edge of the field now if you want to check on your bots at New Earth."

  "I've had a Banshee doing that for me every hour. Nothing new to report. Attempts at building an operational processing station continue to fail."

  "That's key to your entire vision. No bots, no path to galactic conquest."

  "As always, there is a backup plan. Midelon will be mine after tomorrow. If I were to guess, there are probably thousands of bots sitting there at the ready to be converted to my minions."