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With the completion of the conquest of the Ironmongers, I took the opportunity to request advanced medical and chemical equipment to be sent from my settlement. Despite ruling this province in the southern part of the Legion, I couldn't afford to abandon my responsibilities. I knew I had to seize the chance to delve deeper into the social structure of the super mutants and understand more about their hierarchy and leaders.
As I studied the Ironmongers, I discovered that most super mutants were barely intelligent, acting more on basic instincts. However, there was a distinguished group, known as the "Children of the Master." These were significantly smarter, even surpassing an average person in many ways. I wasn't entirely sure who this "Master" was, but it was clear that his influence had shaped these beings in a way that couldn't be ignored. What I did know for certain was who Attis was, one of the generals of this Master in a failed attempt to conquer the southern lands. Juggernaut, the leader of the Ironmongers, had been one of Attis' generals. Apparently, after Attis' death, the super mutants split into separate factions, each following different objectives.
The Ironmongers united under Juggernaut's brute strength and his desire to conquer Mexico to continue building increasingly larger and more powerful war machines. But they weren't the only group of super mutants. Shale, another of Attis' generals, was smaller than Juggernaut but far more intelligent. Shale sought to reunite the different super mutant groups and carry on Attis' vision: the conquest of Texas. Finally, there was another leader, a super mutant who had changed his view of the conflict. Instead of continuing the fight, he chose to coexist with humans, becoming the mayor of a town to the north—something the other super mutants despised.
I realized that super mutants only respected two things: strength or intelligence. Whoever possessed both automatically became their undisputed leader. It was a simple but highly effective system for maintaining control among such chaotic creatures, though usually the faction of strength won over intelligence.
As for the factory, as dictated by Caesar's laws, this new territory had to be auctioned and made available to the highest bidder. Although many offers were made to take control of the plant that had been modified for the production of combat vehicles, it was Todd who purchased it for his personal property, not for the Association. He later sold me half of the factory as a token of our alliance in the arms trade.
The Texas Arms Association solidified itself as a crucial ally in maintaining control in the south. While I focused on managing the Mexicans, Todd handled the Texans. The alcohol issue, though still lingering, had taken a back seat; the population was more concerned about returning to work. With robots now banned, the Texan factories were desperately in need of labor, ironically solving the unemployment crisis that had plagued the Association. However, this wasn't well-received by everyone.
The factory owners, accustomed to their massive profits thanks to automation, began to express dissatisfaction. Their revenues were shrinking as they had to hire and pay human workers instead of relying on robotic labor. This created tension, but it was clear that calming the masses of workers was far more important than catering to the complaints of a few greedy factory owners.
These owners, though powerful on paper, were easy to "silence." There was no need for grand displays of force. A merchant or industrialist could easily be neutralized with a veiled threat, a well-timed bribe, or, in extreme cases, a dagger to the throat. A man dead in the dark raised far fewer suspicions than the hunger of thousands of enraged people. The stability of the south and the Legion's control were paramount, and I wouldn't allow a few saboteurs to jeopardize that control.
In Mexico, the situation with alcohol was much more complicated than in Texas. Here, alcohol consumption was deeply rooted in the culture, and the first crucifixions were already taking place for defying Caesar's strict laws, which had become a serious problem. Much of my success in the conquests was due to my ability to strike deals and present myself as someone willing to negotiate, but the harshness of Caesar's laws regarding alcohol and drugs did not help my cause.
I found myself at a crossroads. I knew that Caesar's law was clear and absolute: no alcohol, no drugs. There were no obvious loopholes I could exploit to soften the implementation of these regulations. However, I knew that if I continued to enforce these laws so strictly, I risked losing control of the region and much of the trust I had gained with the locals. I needed a creative solution.
That's when I decided to turn to empirical knowledge and rhetoric—something that always fascinated Caesar. I started a debate with him, using ancient information about the natural fermentation of fruits, vinegars, condiments, and even bread. I proposed that if fruit juice could naturally ferment, then technically, any consumption of that liquid, use of vinegar, or even eating bread could be considered alcohol consumption under his zero-tolerance policy. This point of debate opened up a long and interesting conversation, as it would mean we'd have to crucify a large number of Legion subjects—if not almost all of them.
For hours, we exchanged arguments over the radio, exploring the nuances of the law. My goal was to lead Caesar to the conclusion that we needed to define a tolerance threshold for the alcohol content in beverages and food. It wasn't about legalizing alcohol per se, but rather about establishing a clear and reasonable limit that would allow the population to continue enjoying the taste of fruit or other items without violating the Legion's laws. I knew the debate intrigued him, and that played to my advantage.
Caesar finally allowed a 0.5% margin of alcohol content in beverages and food. Though it wasn't much, it was better than nothing. I knew the Legion wasn't going to spend thousands of aureus to inspect every corner of the territory, and with this, alcohol production could resume. At first, they would comply with the rule, keeping the drinks within the permitted limit. But over time, it was inevitable that some would start exceeding that 0.5%, claiming they were adhering to the rule, even though it was obvious the alcohol content exceeded what was allowed.
My plan wasn't perfect, but with a couple of strategic crucifixions, most violators would understand there were lines they couldn't cross. It would be enough to maintain order and, more importantly, the appearance of complying with Caesar's laws. We couldn't be entirely inflexible, and the key to maintaining control was allowing the locals a minimum of freedom while reminding them that, ultimately, they were under the dominion of the Legion.
The balance between flexibility and control was delicate but necessary. After all, we weren't as close-minded as some believed—or at least I wasn't.
The days passed, and Caesar's new laws finally reached the region. As I expected, the locals received the news with approval. I was almost certain that, although the drinks would be labeled as "0.5% alcohol," many would start enjoying drinks with much higher alcohol content. As long as they maintained the appearance of following the rule, I would turn a blind eye most of the time. Occasionally, I would crucify the most notorious drunks so that at least the fear of punishment would encourage some self-control.
With this measure, I managed to take a portion of the market away from the narcos. Until now, they had controlled both alcohol and drug sales in the region, but by allowing everyone to produce their own "0.5% alcohol," I was cutting off the monopoly they had on alcoholic beverages. Now they would focus almost exclusively on drug trafficking, a business that was still outside Caesar's laws.
However, it was a small victory. We had cut off one of their sources of power without having to fight directly.
The news was also well-received by Todd and his friends in the Texas Arms Association. Like the locals, they quickly found ways to circumvent the regulation. In fact, the sharpest minds in the Association were already planning how to keep the flow of "0.5% alcohol" while actually distributing products with a much higher alcohol content. It was a move that greatly interested me, as if anyone in the Association decided to misbehave or go against my interests, all I would have to do was find a bottle of their high-proof alcohol and use it as an excuse to take everything from them.
The same law they had found a way to exploit would become their greatest weakness. A small slip-up, a poorly hidden bottle, and I would have the perfect excuse to dismantle any of Todd's "friends" who became troublesome. Not only did I give them a false sense of security, but it allowed them to relax enough to make mistakes that would give me the upper hand in any future negotiations.
Meanwhile, Todd seemed more pleased than ever. With the ability to produce beverages within the legal margin, he and the Association ensured that the factories and markets kept moving, feeding both the population and their wallets. It was an alliance that, for now, worked in our favor.
With some free time after having partially solved the region's biggest issue, I began to foresee what would happen sooner or later: the Cult of Mars would start gaining more followers. With that growth would come fanatics who despised alcohol and any type of indulgence, which would make alcohol consumption a thing of the past. The presence of the cult would not only bring stability but also a new social structure that, if I played my cards right, would consolidate my power in the region, finally establishing lasting stability.
With that thought in mind, I wasted no time and sent the new blueprints for the tanks that the super mutants were to assemble. These vehicles, improved according to the specifications we had developed alongside Todd and the smarter super mutants, would be a key piece in our war machine. I knew these tanks could make a considerable difference in future conflicts.
Additionally, I established a brahmin ranch near the factory to keep the super mutants well-fed. I couldn't afford for them to be tempted by human flesh again, so I ensured a constant supply of brahmin for them. This way, I kept their loyalty and focus on their work in the factories, which now produced vehicles and machinery with remarkable efficiency.
Finally, with stability restored in Mexicanorum, I was able to dedicate myself to studying and analyzing many of the samples I had been collecting but never had time to examine. Among them was the vial containing the green virus I had obtained during the conquest of Attistown. With access to the advanced medical and chemical equipment I had requested from my settlement, I immersed myself in the research, hoping to unravel the secrets of this substance.
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Leave a comment; support is always appreciated.
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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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