Patricians: Power Politics (2 of 9)

Chapter 22: Partnership Terms

Secret Service agents formed a perimeter around the President when he exited the elevator. Security had been tightened at the Muse headquarters in anticipation of the important visitor. Maj. Lee had granted control of the headquarters to the Secret Service for the moment. All Muse Security personnel reported to the Federal Agents now. Walking down the hall towards the CEO's office, President Woods watched employees scurrying out of the way. Maj. Lee approached, the President. Secret Service agents stood close by the President as he shook hands with the Major.

"Mr. Williams is expecting you, sir." Edward pointed towards the CEO's office door. Secret Service agents opened the doors, allowing the group to enter. Sitting behind the desk, Henry admired the view of the Statue of Liberty. Lost in thought, the CEO didn't even hear the people entering his office.

"Henry, it's good to see you again." President Woods caught the CEO's attention, forcing him to spin away from the view. Henry stood up and approached the President with his hand extended. The two men shook hands and embraced one another. Henry pointed to the seat in front of the desk before returning to his seat.

"I know you're aware of the growing military forces pressing against Israel. Have you seen the casualty reports?" President Woods cut straight to business.

"Yes, I am aware that the last offensive was repulsed by IRME forces, and that Israel is close to a state of collapse. Naval blockades and anti-air defense systems are blocking supply routes." Henry made sure to keep himself aware of the state of the world at all times. He linked his mind to the worldwide neural network so he could have reports uploaded while he slept. It was more efficient than reading, and time was the most valuable resource.

"I imagine what I am about to ask is not going to shock you, Henry. Under the provision in the contract between the United States Government and Muse, I need more people. The public is upset about the war, and both American and British casualties are causing unrest."

Well aware of the specific provision, Henry knew he couldn't refuse.

"I'm ordering you to send one of your Atlantis fleets to assist." President Woods was ordering the strongest naval assets Muse owned. The fleet had been built to protect the Atlantis Research Facility, but it had been used to prevent piracy and poaching in fishing reserves. It was the most advanced fleet of ships in the world. Cutting-edge technology designed by Muse was integrated into the working designs of each of the ships. The U.S. had appropriated the designs from Muse under various contracts and research grants. While each ship carried a full complement of staff, the ship was under the direct control of its captain through the neural network that fused mind with machine.

The fleet was one of Henry's greatest assets, and he was loathed to put it in any danger. Not just the technology, but also the crew and his people. Veterans of naval warfare took years to build, and every single member of Muse's navy had at least a decade of naval experience. That was not an easy thing to replace, and not something a commander jeopardized without deep consideration. Henry also knew if he refused to send the fleet, it would damage relations between the triumvirate and breach provisions in the contract, creating liabilities. Henry hated the feeling of his hand being forced. The order went to the fleet through the Muse neural network, and, within seconds, confirmation returned.

"I have sent the order. The fleet is preparing to mobilize." Henry sensed that wasn't the only demand the President had for him.

"Henry, I know this is asking a lot, but I was hoping you would go there personally. The military is struggling because we've failed to adapt to the new type of warfare. IRME forces may have inferior cybernetics and equipment, but they are better trained in the use of that equipment. I wish the Joint Chiefs of Staff listened to you when you told them it was time to begin preparing for the eve of cybernetic warfare."