The Solution (2nd Edition)

Chapter 10 - The Solution Begins - Widow Lai

The Solution was finally upon us. Still, despite knowing what was to transpire, nerves engulfed my being. This was because a contributory element had come about - The Pink Lady. She had resurfaced. It was also likely she intended to interfere with Xen's chess game somehow, and possibly make Chon and his friends, pawns.

    I had tried to remain calm and reached for my bone china cup. I tipped it to my lips, drank the boiling brewed tea, and let the aromatherapy of the old Dragon Well leaf do its work. As always, it was wondrous. With the tension in my soul somewhat eased, I opened multiple holoscreens and flicked them out in front of me. The plan was to remain distracted and observe general news coverage until it was time for Chon to correspond.

    After watching lead-up coverage on ATV and RSN, I studied BTV. And before Chon began, I spoke to him in lieu. "Chon, I hope you forgive the frustrations of our last encounter," I'd mumbled, while resting the lids of my eyes. "Now my son, begin the restoration of our honor. Join your xiōngdi and be more than just men. Be the Double Dragon your fùqīn knew you to be. Become arbiters. Fulfill our destiny. Save this world..."

    As his face materialized, Chon started his live feed as he always did - with cool and calm collection. "Good morning. Today, the majority of the world's politicians have come together again, unified as the World Council here in Frankfurt, Déguó. Most of the world's climate institutions and activist groups have also convened, united as interested spectators and possible endorsers. Specifically, they have all gathered inside the Convention Center behind me to bear witness to the long-awaited Solution presentation, scheduled to start in less than an hour. For the first time in his career, today's summit is being led by China's CPC Environment Secretary, Xen Lai, who will apparently use the presentation to reinforce his global fears on climate destabilization. Yesterday, I attended the summit press conference which shed some light on what Secretary Lai might reveal. After being grilled by Robin Albers of Green Justice, it became apparent that his associate's professions were the main clue. Secretary Lai explained that the Jong Brothers - proprietors of the construction incorporate, Meiser Group, would play a significant role. As would Ling Xiodau - the world's leading bio-holodome pioneer. And Stephen Wu - the world's leading aeronautics engineer. Ultimately, the Secretary's revelation was that his team will propose the construction of something. The question is, what? China, this is Chon Lai reporting live for BTV from the 2048 World Climate Summit."

    Pride flowed through me and a tear of happiness fell down my wrinkled face. It was time.