Chapter 67: Ruling mexicanorum
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"This is very interesting," I murmured as I reviewed the results in my lab in Caesarea Mexicanorum. The environment was sealed, completely isolated to prevent any viral leaks, and if anything went wrong, I'd be the only one exposed. The nature of this virus was both fascinating and terrifying at the same time. It was clear this wasn't a natural creation. What I had on my hands was a bioweapon… or perhaps, a medicine, depending on how you looked at it.
A protein envelope reinforced by ionized hydrogen, allowing it to absorb neutrons without becoming radioactive. That alone made it immune to radiation, which was impressive by itself. The virus also had a shifting, absorptive capability that allowed it to copy DNA patterns much like RNA, storing them in exons and combining them with FEV. It was pre-programmed with "correct" DNA patterns for the species in question.
In the case of super mutants, the virus corrected genetic errors, regenerating DNA and accelerating mitosis. This greatly extended their lifespan and, in theory, could grant them something akin to immortality, as long as the creation of new cells outpaced cellular death.
My mind started to spin with an unsettling yet exciting possibility. I had the genetic sequences of the finest soldiers… and I could very well be one of those examples to replicate. If I could modify the virus to mimic these genetic sequences, could I create a super-soldier serum? Not just that, but a legion of immortal soldiers—stronger, faster, and capable of withstanding any physical damage.
But there was a problem, a serious one. The super mutants, or at least the smarter ones, knew they were sterile. The sperm of male super mutants showed no significant alterations, but the females… that was another matter. Although they didn't appear physically different, their eggs were completely sterile, preventing their species from reproducing. If I used the virus to create super soldiers, I'd have to accept that only men would be viable test subjects.
Unless… unless I could solve the fertility problem in women. If I found a way to prevent the sterility caused by the virus, I could create an army that could reproduce in the future.
I leaned into the microscope, watching how the virus interacted with the DNA samples I'd introduced. I knew I was on the verge of something monumental, but I also understood the risks involved. I was playing with a technology that had doomed generations, but if I could master it, I could revolutionize the Legion, and maybe… the world.
But before I even thought about modifying the virus to create a super-soldier serum, I knew I couldn't take unnecessary risks. Seeing the super mutants was living proof that something could go horribly wrong, so I'd need many test subjects for preliminary trials. Despite the temptation of immortality or extreme physical enhancement, I wouldn't gamble recklessly. I had to be methodical, and I knew the answers would take time, studies, and a lot of patience. But that could wait. For now, I had a more immediate duty: to govern and consolidate my conquests.
My responsibilities as governor had eased up a bit, allowing me to focus on broader projects. With stability secured, and as long as no immediate threats challenged our control, I could focus on the infrastructure necessary for future expansions.
One of my top priorities was establishing a railway connection between Mexicanorum and the heart of the Legion. A train system would not only speed up the transport of troops and supplies but also facilitate the shipment of weapons, tanks, and any equipment needed to keep our war machine moving. I knew the construction of these railways would be crucial for Caesar's future campaigns. Mobilizing slaves and workers, I ordered them to begin laying the first tracks, speeding up the work with all available personnel.
Meanwhile, my legion continued to grow. Week after week, more recruits and slaves were trained and equipped, and more power armor was getting into the hands of my most veteran soldiers. Morale was at an all-time high, especially after our recent victories, even among Malpais' troops. The tanks, whose production was about to begin thanks to the super mutants, would be our trump card. With them, our future campaigns would be less bloody and faster; there would be no need for long, drawn-out battles when we could crush our enemies with mechanized force.
With each new piece of infrastructure and every new soldier trained, I further solidified my position as governor and military leader. The conquests would be easier to sustain with a strengthened army, while the territories I controlled became more self-sufficient.
However, there were still many tasks ahead. The narcos remained a threat in some areas, though their influence had diminished since the new laws were implemented. The super mutants that were left as prisoners also required supervision, especially the more intelligent ones now working for the Legion. I needed to ensure they continued producing machinery for us and didn't cause trouble.
The peace I'd achieved so far was only temporary. I knew that. But for now, I could afford to prepare my next moves with caution while watching my power and my army grow.
"Gaius…" Todd said with a wide grin as I stepped into the room.
"I see you're in a good mood," I remarked, glancing at the two half-eaten burgers on his desk.
"Good mood? Hell, I'm floatin' higher than a damn kite! Gun sales are through the roof now that we've got access to the Brotherhood territories in Texas and the Texan Trade Union. We're ridin' the wave of their internal mess like never before. There's a fight brewin' between the 'hardliners' in the Brotherhood who wanna stick to their old leader's doctrines and another faction that's lookin' for a new path. At first, it seemed like the split'd be peaceful, but now there're skirmishes breakin' out all over. Gold coins're pourin' in by the truckload from rifles and pistols. I hope that in-fightin' lasts forever! Every damn bullet they shoot is money in our pockets. And let me tell ya, everyone's happy! Even the ones who had to dismantle their robots. I've got several donors lined up, ready to deepen their ties with the Legion, and with those trains you're buildin', we'll be hittin' the northern markets in no time!" Todd said, his mind completely focused on the business opportunities.
I listened carefully but with caution. "As long as you're not selling weapons to the narcos or the Mexican resistance, it's fine by me. Plus, I did you a big favor with that alcohol deal. Six hours, Todd. Six long hours debating with Caesar to get him to reconsider my request," I said seriously.
Todd let out a laugh and raised one of his burgers like a toast. "I know, I know, Gaius. I appreciate what you did. That 0.5% trick? That was a stroke of genius. Folks are happy, business is boomin', and more importantly, the Legion still looks strong without appearin' like we're givin' up ground. Everybody's winnin', ain't they?"
I watched him cautiously. Despite the success, I couldn't let Todd think that everything was allowed. "Yes, but remember, Todd, this is still the Legion. If anyone steps out of line, you know I won't hesitate to crucify them. No matter who it is."
Todd nodded, and his grin faded slightly. "Understood, Gaius. Everything within the limits... well, mostly everything."
"And don't forget about the frumentarii..." I added, letting my words hang with a more serious tone. "Even though I give the orders here, some come directly under the leader of the frumentarii. Their mission isn't just to spy on enemies, but to make sure I'm serving Caesar correctly. If any of them sees you or your friends drinking strong alcohol... well, that's where our alliance ends," I warned, locking eyes with him.
For a moment, Todd's carefree smile vanished, and he leaned forward slightly, fully understanding the weight of my words. "Got it, Gaius. I ain't stupid; I know where the line is," he said, his tone more controlled, nodding slowly.
"I'm glad to hear it," I replied, leaning back a little but still keeping my gaze on him. "Because, Todd, in this region... things can change real fast if someone starts stepping outside Caesar's lines."
Todd leaned back again, trying to restore the lightness in the conversation. "Don't you worry none, Gaius. Everything's under control. Let's just... keep doin' what we do best: makin' money and power... together."
"If I finally have some peace," I replied, contemplating the current situation. "All that's left is to finish off the western holdouts, those 'Free Fighters,' and I'll have all of northern Mexico under my control. Once that happens, I can launch a full-scale war against the narcos, probably bolstering security and increasing the number of frumentarii at my disposal. So, be careful with your business, Todd," I warned, not taking my eyes off him.
Todd raised his hands in a gesture of calm. "Don't you worry 'bout me, Gaius. I stick to the rules about sellin' weapons. Only to the Texans and the Legion. Ain't nobody I'm dealin' with could be one of your future enemies... unless you've got plans to meddle in Texas, that is. In that case, well, I'd be in a heap of trouble," he said with a slightly cautious grin.
I sighed, knowing that question had been hanging in the air for some time. "Honestly, I don't know. I've got just over two years to meet Caesar's deadlines. The conquests I've made so far have left Caesar more than satisfied, even impressed with how quickly his enemies have fallen. But I'm not sure I can defeat a Brotherhood of Steel that's managed to unify all of Texas. It'd be a costly war, and I'd lose a lot of men who will be needed for the future conquest of the New California Republic."
Todd nodded slowly, understanding the complexity of the situation. "It'd be risky, that's for damn sure. The Brotherhood in Texas ain't like the smaller groups we've squashed before. If they decide to rally under one banner, you've got a real tough enemy on your hands."
"Exactly," I replied, looking at the map spread across my desk. "Every decision matters. I can't afford a war of attrition right now. My men are valuable, and the Legion isn't infinite. I have to weigh every move carefully before taking the next step."
Todd leaned forward, wearing his characteristic grin. "Well, partner, whatever you decide, you know the Association's got your back... as long as, of course, you keep playin' by the rules."
"I'm glad to hear that, Todd," I said, maintaining a calm but firm tone. "I've got plans for the future, and I'm considering all the Legion's subjects to bring them to life. For now, there's stability, so I'm going to take full advantage of it. I need you to recruit five hundred young people from the Association. No, it's not for slavery," I clarified before Todd could protest. "I'm planning to establish an 'urban legion' to focus solely on maintaining order. When the Legion moves, it leaves troops only on the borders, leaving the inner territories too exposed. I'm going to recruit from the subjects so they can keep an eye on themselves."
Todd raised an eyebrow, showing a hint of surprise. "Has Caesar allowed this? 'Cause if he has, I got no problem recruitin' citizens. But if you ain't got his approval... well, I can always round up some orphans or desperate folks who won't raise no suspicions if they disappear into that 'urban legion' of yours."
I smiled, knowing Todd was always ready to find unorthodox solutions. "I'm going to ask Caesar later today. I doubt he'll object, especially if I frame it as a way for the subjects to slowly lose their individual identity by joining diverse groups, where their individualism dissolves, and they become part of something greater: the Legion. I'll make them brothers-in-arms, and over time, true sons of Caesar. Plus, opening up recruitment among the subjects shouldn't be too difficult. After all, I was a very special case; I almost had to beg to join."
"This's gonna be interestin'," Todd replied, and I nodded in agreement.
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