“Friedman, once you have dropped your stuff off at your room, your presence has been requested by Captain Fischer and Commander Bertelli in their quarters before dinner.”
“Yes, sir.”
Xavier thought it odd that a recruit would get an order immediately upon arrival; no one else seemed to be getting orders. He shrugged it off and figured that might be the way they did things here. He finally reached the front, and Captain Stanley greeted him with a smile.
“I am quite glad that you decided to join.”
“Captain Stanley, I appreciate this offer, but I feel a bit underprepared. The other recruits seem to have a greater grasp on what is going on.”
“Is that why they are walking around in their knickers and you are not?” he asked. Xavier was slightly embarrassed. He didn’t know why he felt the need to say something. “Don’t you worry, recruit. You have all you need. And you have been roomed with Friedman. If you truly feel underprepared, might I suggest that you ask him questions. He will be one of the few that will gladly answer them.”
Xavier looked at him quizzically. Clearly there were things at work here that Xavier was unaware of.
“You are dismissed, recruit.”
Xavier saluted and walked in the direction that all the other recruits were going. Everyone began to file out of the hangar. Captain Walsh approached Captain Stanley after observing their conversation.
“He’s one of your favorites, isn’t he? You did push pretty hard for him.” Captain Walsh inquired.
“He has been one of the top recruits for the last two years, Captain.”
“That may be true, but you know he hasn’t been recruited because he can’t be trusted. He has a history of breaking rules. That is not the makeup of a soldier.”
“Breaking rules to save people. You know as well as I do that we are far more than soldiers. Besides, Captain, his rule breaking history is not the reason you don’t trust him, is it?” Captain Stanley asked with a glare.
“Don’t look at me that way, Stanley. You knew it was going to be a barrier he would have to work through from the moment you headed to Kansas to recruit him. No one trusts Americans, especially Australian-Americans who break rules.”
“Everyone deserves a chance,” Captain Stanley said with hope in his voice.
“Everybody needs allies, especially during training, and even more so during the first test. I just hope your naivety doesn’t create a greater barrier between the rest of the world and the Americans. His toughest challenge is going to be making allies. I just don’t want to see him set up for failure.”
“Don’t you worry, Danny Boy. He’ll be fine.” Captain Walsh glared back at him. “Were you able to find a replacement for Commander Fedorov?” Captain Stanley asked.
“I believe so. Oscar Thompson has consistently scored higher than everyone else in every category for the last few years. He knows how we do things. He knows our process. It’s fantastic. We shall see how he does in the coming months.”
***
Further in the hangar, Xavier and David walked together towards their room. At the entrance to the stairs, the man in the suit was posted up against the wall.
“David Friedman!” he called out to them. “It is truly an honor. We are all indebted to your grandfather for what he has done for the United Nations.”
“Thank you. Excuse me, I do not mean to be rude, but do I know you?” David responded.
“You do not yet. Oscar Thompson, formerly of British Special Forces,” he said with an outstretched hand.
David’s face lit up. “I have heard of you!” he said with excitement. “I heard that you passed up on joining one other time but have been the top recruit for the last five years!”
“Well, I felt undeserving of the honor. It is the greatest honor and privilege for a soldier to be asked to be an officer of President Conrad’s personal honor guard. I almost did not come this year, but Captain Walsh was quite convincing this time around. And who is this one with you?” Oscar replied, looking at Xavier.
“Xavier Phillip, formerly of the Navy SEALs. You are an impressive individual, Oscar,” he introduced himself, sticking his hand out.
Oscar’s disgust was apparent. “An American? How did you get here?” he said with great pomp.
Xavier pulled his hand back and found himself growing angry. He didn’t understand why everyone seemed to hate America so much. He was staring at Oscar with fury in his eyes, but David diffused the situation.
“This is my roommate. He’s a really cool guy. He actually has a record comparable to your own,” David said cheerfully.
“Doubtful. Watch your back with this one, mate,” Oscar warned him. “I will see you at supper.”
Oscar and Xavier leered at each other one last time, and then the three of them went their separate ways. After an awkward pause, David spoke with cheer grabbing Xavier’s attention.
“I am thrilled that there is an American here! Did you know that Israel and America have had a partnership and an alliance for over a hundred years? At the end of World War II, America was the first country to recognize Israel’s state ship. We have been allies ever since!”
“That’s fascinating,” Xavier said half listening. “How many of your countrymen are here, David?”
“Three. All for different squads, though. I am the first one to try out for the Strike Force in five years. And if I make it, I will be the first one to do so in seven years. Europe always has the majority. I suppose it is because HQ is right in the heart of Europe.”
Xavier paused for a moment. “What do you mean make it?”
“Well, not everyone that gets recruited will actually make the Force. Didn’t you know? The amount of graduates varies depending on the needs of the Force. It’s usually between five and fifteen. That is why it is such a privilege to make it.”
Xavier was shocked. So now I have to compete with all of these people? he thought to himself. The challenge filled him with excitement. He truly would get to prove that he was the best after all. He was more ready than ever now.
Moments later they arrived at their room. David threw his stuff on his bed and checked his watch.
“I have to go meet up with Captain Fischer and Commander Bertelli. Dinner is in an hour. If you want to make a good impression, you probably shouldn’t be late. I will meet you down there. I am so excited that we are roommates!”
Xavier wondered if David was always this joyful and chipper. “Hey, David, thanks for having my back out there.”
“It was my pleasure.”
“What’s the dress code tonight?”
“Well, there were a couple of pretty British girls in a few of the lines. You should dress to impress so you don’t make me look bad,” David said jokingly.
Xavier laughed. As soon as David left, Xavier began putting his clothes away. He had a couple of suits, but he wasn’t sure how often he would get to wear them. Most of his clothes were gym clothes or casual clothes. As he pulled out his suit of choice, he was surprised to find that his shirts weren’t wrinkled. If possible he would try to purchase some new ones while he was here. He ironed his suit and shirt, deciding not to wear a tie, and then shined his shoes. He put on the watch that the Dunn family had bought for him when he graduated basic.
He had about twenty minutes to locate the cafeteria where the banquet would be held, and once he stepped into the hallway, he followed his nose. It smelled delightful, as if it was cuisine from a five star restaurant. As he wandered the halls, he noticed the many paintings and awards scattered on all of them. Every section seemed to have a theme. With a closer look, he could see intricately woven designs on the walls. Whoever owned this place put great value on the details, giving a royal feel to the entire facility. He had never been in a base quite like this one.
As he stepped into the cafeteria, he realized it wasn’t a cafeteria at all, but it was much more like a ballroom. He looked around and both David and Oscar were already there, both surrounded by small circ
les of people. He continued scanning the room when he made eye contact with Commander Fernandez and began to work his way towards her. She was breathtaking in an elegant black dress that cut off at her knees. Everyone in the room was dressed in their finest clothes. He was grateful to David for informing him on the dress code.
As he approached Commander Fernandez, he was interrupted by David calling out to him. His first reaction was ignoring him. He was only two steps away from Commander Fernandez when she gave him a look that suggested he acknowledge David. With annoyance in his mannerisms, he sighed and looked over to David as he called him over one more time. With heavy steps he maneuvered over to him with Commander Fernandez smiling.
David was standing in the circle with a Brazilian woman, Commander Bertelli, an Australian man, a Kenyan man, and an Egyptian woman. David introduced him to everyone. They were all polite but noticeably uncomfortable. Commander Bertelli was the only one that took an interest in him, along with the Brazilian woman whose name was Cecilia Ribeiro, the Lieutenant Commander of the Strike Force, and Commander Bertelli’s best friend.
The two of them made an attempt at small talk, but before Xavier could respond, President Conrad stepped to the head of the table. Everybody sat down. The festivities had begun.
Chapter 8
July 26th 2062 7 p.m. The Dining Hall, Crimson Manor, Berlin, Germany
The President stood up and everything about him commanded respect. He had a charisma that forced all of the recruits and officers to hang on every word he said. He was a striking individual. He was about Xavier’s height but seemed to have more muscle. He didn’t look like a politician at all and was built more like a soldier, except he was filled with joy and happiness. He had a kind face that gave the impression that he could be trusted. His blonde hair was slicked back and a bit of grey ran through his sideburns. His eyes were a piercing green that made you feel as though he was staring directly at you. He had a calming voice that was steady and would draw you into following him into the darkest battle. Xavier only saw him on television every so often, but being in his presence was far different. His voice bellowed with authority in his German accent.
“Words cannot fully declare the commitment, skill, and bravery you have displayed in your service to your country. It is such an honor to sit at a table with all of you heroes. Allow me to be the first to say thank you. Thank you for your service and your sacrifices. I hope the honor that will be bestowed on some of you to serve us here in the United Nations will be of equal veneration to you. We live in a world that is full of doubt, mistrust, and constant teetering. We are proud to be able to stand united and help our world as it continues to recover from some of the greatest atrocities this world has ever seen. Together, we encourage and enforce peace. Together, we can break the bonds of nationalism, bias, and racism. We are one people, united for the betterment of our world for this generation and the ones to come.
“It has been tradition since the inception of this force to dress our best and break bread together. All of you will be pushed to your physical and mental limits, and only a few of you will be sanctioned to join our ranks. But know that whatever happens, our desire is that you will leave here with a greater love for our world as a whole and a greater love for one another. Your sacrifices have been great, and should you join us, they will increase. We wanted to apportion our gratitude. After dinner, Captain Christopher Walsh, my friend and the leader of my personal guard, as well as the leader of defense all over the world, will be leading you on a tour of this facility; your new home. You will need rest, for your trials start first thing in the morning. I look forward to seeing many of the accomplishments to come. Let us unite and enjoy each other’s company.”
The halls resonated with applause as everyone cheered. A feast of kosher and non-kosher foods was laid out before Xavier and the rest of the recruits. There was something for everyone. He had never seen so many delicacies at one time in his life. It was all made to perfection, and every bite was a shot of joy through his palette. As he took samples and bites of everything within reach, he looked around the hall. The walls were intricate and excellently designed, and the light resonated on every wall. The elaborate designs told a story of angels and heroes coming together. The roof was an incredible mural of forest, blue skies, and beautiful snowcapped mountains. He felt as though he was eating in the middle of an art gallery.
Sitting across from him, Commander Bertelli lulled him out of his trance.
“Beautiful architecture, isn’t it?” she asked him with an Italian accent.
“Yes, ma’am. I’ve never seen anything quite like it.”
“I’m Raquel. It is nice to meet you, Mr. Phillip.”
“The pleasure is all mine,” he said smiling.
Xavier’s attention was drawn to the end of the table where President Conrad sat. A skinny man approached him with what seemed like urgent news, and immediately the President dismissed himself. As he watched him leave he scanned the table. David was maneuvering from section to section making new friends wherever he went. It made sense to Xavier. David always seemed to be joyful and cheerful, and it was contagious.
He fixed his gaze back on Raquel. “So what’s the biggest difference between Italy and Germany?”
She giggled as if the two were nothing alike. As she began to answer, she was cut off by Captain Walsh.
“I hope you all have enjoyed your meals. It is going to be the last one you get like that for a long time. Let’s begin the tour.”
The recruits were gathered as close to the Captain as possible.
“You are currently standing in our cafeteria. This is where all those that live here and all members from all divisions, districts, and squadrons will be eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner.”
Captain Walsh led the group up some steps to a large concourse. At the end of the concourse was the Research and Development division. All technology advancements were manufactured and designed there. The room was full of all sorts of gizmos and gadgets Xavier didn’t recognize or know anything about. The group was blown away by the technology they were able to see and experience. Xavier had never seen anything like it. Everything was an experience of vision, touch, smell, and sound.
Captain Walsh kept his descriptions and explanations brief. It was apparent that this was not one of his favorite things to do. Passing through the barracks and housing units, they all headed north where Support and Human Resources was located. Everything was placed thoughtfully, and whoever designed this manor seemed to want every single room and square inch to cause certain emotions and feelings. As he stepped into the room, Xavier felt as though this division was here to help him in any way possible. Everything from the decorations and designs seemed to scream, I am on your side. He felt a sensation of peace there.
They made their way up the stairwell to the second floor. The carpets that went down the center of the stairwell made it feel as though they were royalty having the red carpet laid out for them. Even the stone hand rails were crafted with intricate designs. Xavier was in awe of the manor. As they arrived at the top of the stair case, there was a massive room to the north which had four sets of double doors. He was drawn to it. As he gravitated towards the double doors, Commander Pak interrupted him and inquired about what he was doing.
“I was just wondering what was in that room.”
Commander Pak looked him up and down and gave him a coy smile. “You will learn all about that room tomorrow. Stay with the group for now.”
Xavier turned his attention back towards Captain Walsh. As he maneuvered closer, he made eye contact with Commander Fernandez and they smiled at one another. As they continued west, Xavier was completely distracted as he tried to covertly make his way through the crowd to get to Commander Fernandez. As he approached her, Charlie from Canada beat him by a second and started talking to her. With a scowl on his face, Xavier elected to wait for an opening. Charlie was coming onto Commander Fernandez in an obnoxious way, and Xavier was appalled at some of
the things he was saying to her. As he listened in, he couldn’t help but laugh at several of Charlie’s attempts. Commander Fernandez was graceful and polite, but Xavier could tell she was annoyed.
The group made their way east. The Honor Guard and the Assault Team were across from each other, and each of them had their own conference rooms and training facilities. The manor began to feel like a convention center. Across the hall from the Honor Guard’s area was the President’s quarters and office. Xavier was surprised to discover that the President lived on campus in the middle of everything. Within a few minutes, the group approached the President’s quarters to see him sitting in the middle of a number of children. He was telling them the history of the war.
“Nation rose against nation. There were allies that had partnered together for decades that suddenly turned on each other. The betrayal was great and trust was as low as it could be. This world was broken. It was engulfed in a hatred that no one understood. What started as an emotional reaction to a truly terrible act of terror started a chain of reactions. Eventually all the sovereign states in the world fought for thirty years purely on reaction. World leaders had lost their purpose and never once took the time ask why they were fighting. After fifteen years, a group of men and women devoted to peace decided to take a stand and look into the blast that started it all. Many of them were scientists and engineers. Once they solved the case, all the combatants declared a cease fire. The cease fire resulted in a peace treaty that not only ended the war but launched the world into a joint effort to destroy all lethal weapons and engines of destruction.
Dawn of a New Era Page 5
