Unwanted

By Krystopher Douglas

Mankind was almost wiped out by nuclear war and now life must start over. From the ashes life has started anew and began to prosper once again, however another cataclysm struck the planet that will not destroy but change everything. Life is about to be altered and some will welcome the change while others will reject it. One man has been exposed and must make a choice to hide in the shadows or stand in the light and expose himself as well as his team to the coming storm that awaits them. Very soon the world will be altered in a way that could destroy everything.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Apr 15, 2016
• ISBN: 9781365049682

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Unwanted

Unwanted

Copyright © 2016 by Krystopher Douglas

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review or scholarly journal.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Krystopher Douglas

[e-mail]

First Printing: 2016

ISBN 978-1-365-04968-2

The General

608 After Near Extinction (A.N.E.) / 16 August / 08:05 Hour

New D.C., Home of the Global Alliance Council

Another day had begun across the world as any other day would; the sun beamed down on the surface basking everything in a blanket of warmth and sunshine.  It was a welcome feeling in the rebuilt city of New D.C. after several chilly days.  Home to the Global Alliance and the Council that presided over the global sectors, the city itself was a symbol, a reminder of the near extinction of the planet six hundred years ago.

From the ashes of the past mankind stood up and roared to the stars, announcing they would not disappear so easily.  Together, all would stand shoulder to shoulder and reject the destructive future that their forefathers created.  Instead, the world survived, continuing to thrive as one unified entity.  As time went on, humanity rebuilt; lives, cities, families, all was returned to a peaceful co-existence.

One day everything changed again; a new species was found and humans were no longer alone on the planet.  This new species would be looked upon with fear and hate as many attempted to understand why their home was once again tested.  Many would succumb to this change and those that survived were left with pain and anguish.  One particular individual had been gripped by this change and it was left to the Global Alliance Council to decide his fate.

As some began their daily routines, others were preparing for a life altering decision that would be made by the Global Alliance Council.  This day would be the last day in a long and arduous trial; a trial that began as a breach of Global Military Policy and ended as, what the media had turned into, a head hunt.  The Grand Council chamber was not all that unique; the judges’ table was the typical half-moon shape with three chairs.  In front of the judges’ table were the two tables for the defendant and the plaintiff; behind those were several rows of benches for spectators.  The room itself was light wooden paneling that matched the rows of benches, while the floors were of a darker wood.  Currently, these benches were full of people, waiting for the chamber to be called to order.

The Vice Judge rapped the gavel three times, bringing the Grand Council chamber to order.  Some had speculated, and many had rumored, that the General was put on trial.  The truth however was these specific hearings were to decide whether the General would be allowed to continue his career or be dismissed from service.  The military had strict rules and the General knew these rules intimately.  No altered human would be given or allowed to hold any rank that would give them access to key locations or sensitive material, including personnel.

The reason for this was due to the inability of the individual to control their emotional instability, and separate personal feelings from professional attitude.  It was well known that altered humans, also known as mutes, had animalistic tendencies and could easily become angered.  Instincts took over and the aftermath of such outbursts had on several occasions been bloody and violent.

Many of these occurrences had happened since the founding and rise of the new species.  Now, a key figure had become infected; altered to an extreme.  The General may not look the same as he once did but he was in control of his feelings and instincts due to the extensive training he has had over the long years of service.  Moreover, the General had made several friends and enemies around the world during his career which placed him in a position that he himself cannot walk away from.

The General was a known individual who would not be able to walk down the street without being stopped by someone.  Many would shake his hands and thank him for his humanitarian work.  Some would spit curses at him from a distance for his ruthless negotiations and then disappear into the crowds.  But none would dare raise a hand to him; the fear of legal action (or being attacked by the General) kept people away.  The General felt that he would not openly attack anyone unless it was in self-defense.  However, he preferred the public’s point of view as it kept his friends close; and he was able to have the freedom of not being watched by the public all the time.

The Vice Judge began, Order, order in the chamber.  We were going to finish this day with a final solution to the issue that was presented to this Council some months ago.  However, due to recent events and an arrangement made between the defendant and the plaintiff, it is the Councils' decision that the case of General Malcolm Harris vs. The Global Military and Police Branch will be discontinued.

As silence spread across the chamber, the Vice Judge continued, As agreed upon by both legal representatives, along with this Vice Judge, any and all records pertaining to this case will be gathered together and sealed in the military archives for all time.  In addition, both parties have requested to make a final public statement that they wish to have on record as a final resolution.  This case is closed and this Council stands adjourned.  The Vice Judge rapped the gavel three more times; the sound resonated throughout the silent council chamber.  General Malcolm Harris, the great negotiator for The Global Military and Police, sat at the table and waited for everyone to leave the council chamber.  As everyone slowly left, he closed his eyes, recalling his life and how his experiences led him to this moment.

It was thirty years ago when Malcolm Harris graduated from the military academy as a Second Lieutenant in the field of Medical Research and Anthropology.  During that time he was known for his expertise to solve complex problems which gained him the attention of many individuals in the military, as well as the science community.  His unique way to solve problems would not only advance him quickly, it would also give him the means to insure his future.  Eventually, he began to notice that he could influence people as he spoke with them; he also became a great debater and speaker due to his knowledge of Human Sociology.

Within five years he received promotions up to Captain and became a key influence during his involvement in the Treaty of the Americas; a treaty that joined North America and South America as one country.  These treaties began the long campaign of bringing the world state ships under one government.  The four major powers involved with uniting the world were: The Americas, The Northern Euro-Asia Coalition, The South East Asian Republic, and The Australian Isles.  After ten years of service Harris' life would take a drastic turn.

As a newly promoted Lieutenant Major, he was assigned to the African Conflict in an attempt to befriend the ruling Kings with the hope of convincing them to sign with the newly founded Global Alliance.  However, Harris disappeared for seven months at which time he was held captive by a malevolent African base commander who charged him with being an insurgent to overthrow the Kings.  Harris was exposed to several torture methods; then after his captivity, he was found and extracted by a local hero.  Harris recalled the day he was told that his future would not be so clear and easy.

588 A.N.E. / 23 October / 21:40 Hour

Undisclosed military medical facility…

A nurse entered the room and checked the monitors on a routine examination of all the patients on the floor.  The room was twelve foot by twelve foot with a small barred window above the patient’s bed; it was softly lit and the beeping of a heart monitor was the only sound.  As the nurse scanned the medical file, Harris awoke as if he knew someone had entered.  He turned his head slightly and the nurse leaned over, looking down at him with a modest smile.  How do you feel sir, the nurse inquired.

He coughed as he cleared his throat to respond, Like crap, Doc.  How long have I been out?

I am sorry sir, but I am just the nurse and not authorized to have that information.  All I was instructed was to monitor your vitals and let the doctor know when you have awakened, the nurse answered.

I understand. He said in a low tone.

Rest sir, the doctor will be on her way, the nurse stated as she continued to write on the medical tablet.  As the nurse finished her work a female doctor entered, holding the door open.  She smiled at Harris then turned her gaze to the nurse.  The nurse nodded and stepped out of the room handing the medical tablet to the doctor.  The doctor stepped into the room and let the door close behind her.  She stood six foot tall with blood red hair pulled back, loosely tucked under a medical cap.  She was wearing greenish blue medical scrubs, with a white lab coat over them; the coat was open in the front and she had slippers over her shoes.

Harris smiled to himself as he realized the doctor caring for him was his friend’s daughter and his adopted niece.  He could tell from her expression that she was relieved and happy to see him safely home.

She approached and looked down at Harris with a smile, My name is Doctor Angela Jacobs, and I am assigned to you.  Do you know where you are?

Harris closed his eyes with a smile, I know who you are Angela, but I cannot seem to remember how I got here.

How do you feel? she asked while tapping the pad with her finger.

I told your nurse like crap, how long have I been out? he said as he secretly pined for a whole pot of coffee.

Well, you were found about a week ago and you have been asleep for almost five days now.  Do you have any memories prior to you arriving here?

He attempted to recall with the pain and buzzing of his thoughts bouncing around in his head like an excited bee hive, The last thing I remember is being set down on a beach.  The water woke me up enough to see the surf and blurred images on the water.  But... he paused as a sharp stabbing pain in his temples accompanied the memory.

What is it? she pressed.

I looked back and I swear I saw an animal staring at me from the tree line.  I don't know Angela, maybe I was just out of my head...

What animal? she looked up from the data-pad.

He looked at her for a moment as the pain died down some and the image seemed less fuzzy in his head but still not completely clear, It looked like a tiger, a white tiger, but the body was different, almost... human. She stared at him as he laid his head back. I probably should not have said that, you probably think I am crazy now.

Actually I don't, she responded as she explained what had happened.  You were picked up at the mouth of the Congo River, south of the kingdom boundaries dividing North and South Africa.  We were given a tip where you would be if we were going to get you back, however they could not guarantee how long you would be safe.  The tip came from our friends, the African Peoples Resistance.

They stated that an agent of theirs knew where you were being held and planned to extract you with the condition that we understood neither of the African Kings knew about your abduction.  We arrived at the location at the time given to us; the report I got from the rescue team was that they saw you being carried on the back of a large animal, possibly a mute.

Once the animal placed you on the ground it stood up.  The report stated that the animal, at a rough guess, was almost eight feet tall and stood as a man.  Video footage can confirm that the creature looked out at the rescue team then turned back toward the jungle and ran into the foliage. It completely evaded the rescue team and virtually disappeared out of sight.

Ok, Harris stated, Now that we have established I am not crazy, where we go from here?

Angela's smile faded, I was ordered to report when you had awakened in order to debrief you on the past eight months.  Military Intelligence has questions about your disappearance as well as the altered human.  You are being held in an undisclosed medical facility pending the outcome of the investigation.

He stared at her for a moment as she shifted a little and noticed she was avoiding eye contact, What else Angela, there's something you are not telling me.

She became saddened; with a shaky voice she responded, Malcolm, I found something, it’s your blood.  As I was working on your injuries, your blood work came back positive.  You’ve... been exposed to the Nano-plague and your DNA shows signs of damage; I'm so sorry.

He laid his head back down and closed his eyes; she took his hand into hers and held it.  After several minutes he quickly weighed in the depth of this news then opened his eyes, Who else knows?

I haven't told anyone, yet. But if I don't, then you change...  He cut her words off.

I know the outcome well Angela, how long?

I am not sure; I will need to do more tests.

Then do them, I will provide you with any help and equipment you need; also, I will have you transferred to my department.  You will become my personal physician and supervising officer for my medical research team.

She responded surprisingly, But sir!  The General will not allow that!

I understand that your father made me promise to keep you safe and out of harm’s way Angela, however the situation has changed.  I will need you by my side at all times now or you will be in danger.  Your father will understand if I ask him, he owes me.  To keep you safe I will need to keep an eye on you.  You will get what you always wanted Angela, you will be transferred to my department and get the front-line combat experience you dreamed of, and much more.

Angela stood next to the bed unable to comprehend what had just transpired.  Her entire life was about to change and she was not entirely sure if it was a good thing.  She always wanted to be a combat rescue medic but her father, being of high rank, made sure she would never set foot on a battlefield.  Now, Lieutenant Major Malcolm Harris, the great negotiator, family friend and uncle to her had made a proposal that she was unable to refuse.  She thought for only a moment, What do you need from me?

He looked directly at her, I need you to gather all the records you have about my blood tests and destroy them.  No one must know about the damage to my DNA until the time is right.  What I want from you... is silence.

608 A.N.E. / 16 August / 08:30 Hour

New D.C...

Sir?  Sir?  Malcolm?  Everyone has left; they are waiting outside for the closing statements.  Harris opened his eyes and looked at his personal assistant, Angela Jacobs, and realized he was left alone in the now empty courtroom.

Thank you Lieutenant, I believe it is now time to show the world who I am, he stated as he stood and straightened his uniform.

She reached up and adjusted his collar; she brushed the front of his jacket with her hands and patted his broad chest with a smile, There you go chief.

Thank you, he stepped away from the table and made his way to the outer chamber of the Capital Building.  As he walked towards the doors that lead outside, he recalled his tour of service and other events that changed the direction of his life.

It was fifteen years ago when Harris became a Lieutenant Colonel; he was involved with the founding of the one world power known as the Global Alliance and its three branches: the Global Military and Police, where he helped put into place the policies and procedures for the new law enforcement and military branch; the Corporation, an enterprise that consolidated business and commerce; and the Faithful, which allowed any and all spiritual and religious beliefs to be freely expressed under the guidance of one global institute.

Five years after forming the world power, the prominent rise in altered human cases around the world became a problem.  Harris, who was promoted to Colonel at this time, took a public stand to help find a cure and added his concerns for these individuals, while he secretly hid the fact that he himself was altered.  Harris used his own resources and connections to establish a private operation within The Corporation in an attempt to find a cure but it would be five more years before another major event happened in his life; the last governmental body to join the unification was the African Kingdom.

The newly promoted General Harris would be called to Africa during a closed meeting with the African Resistance Coalition.  In this closed meeting he was informed that the Kings were a front for the ruling High Priest and that the High Priest had plans of his own.

603 A.N.E. / 16 May / 11:10 Hour

Congo Delta Royal Meeting Institute, Africa...

This particular day would be known as the Day of Unity, however, the process to this conclusion would only be known by those directly involved.  At this time Malcolm Harris had finally earned the rank of General and had been the negotiator for the newly formed Global Alliance for several years.  With his efforts, the world governments came together as a whole and begun to focus on a future together.

The ruling Kings of Africa had been reluctant to join the Unity and decided to hold off their involvement.  Intermittently, the two Kings divided the African continent and agreed to remain independent from the affairs of the world, claiming that the modern world was no place for the spiritual beliefs of the African people.  For many years the Kings kept Africa out of the global situation and eventually closed the country to outsiders.  Several years later, the Kings suddenly agreed to meet with representatives of the Global Alliance and present an offer to join, under certain arrangements of course.

The Kings agreed to allow Africa to be enlisted into the world power but under their terms.  A meeting was arranged to speak about these terms however the location would be in Africa.  The negotiations would be attended by a group of select individuals that were picked by the ruling Kings.

It was later realized by all who were involved that the great negotiator, General Harris, was not invited to these proceedings.  Harris became aware of this fact and was curious as to why, however he did not seem to care that he was left out.  Africa was the last territory left in the world and if his involvement would jeopardize any arrangement then he would graciously stand aside and let others take control.

The negotiations took place at an African Government location just north of the Congo River Delta.  It is here that the ruling Kings would come together and conclude problems that required their attention.  The negotiations however did not go as planned and the terms that the Kings presented to the Global Alliance were not in the best interest of all involved.

Inside the conference room was a large table in the shape of an arc, in the middle of the arc sat the two Kings and the Appointed High Priest.  The African people were very spiritual with beliefs that date back several thousand years.  The Kings were majority elected by the people to uphold these beliefs and insure the safety of their homeland.

The High Priest was also elected and agreed upon by both ruling Kings; the High Priest was the advisor for both Kings.  The purpose of the High Priest was to speak with both Kings in times of disagreements and attempt to solve problematic situations.  All three men were in the conference room with the Global Alliance speakers, attempting to come to an agreement.

However some of the terms the Kings asked for would not be accepted by the Global Military and Police branch.  The head speaker argued, This is not acceptable, you are asking to take complete control of the forces that would be brought in under the jurisdiction of the Global Military and Police then use those forces for your own purposes!  The whole reason for the Global Military and Police, the Corporation, and the Faithful Movement merging is to establish a unified means of bringing the world together.

The other G.A. speaker became frustrated but remained stern, We are all aware of the outcome six hundred years ago!  A 'disagreement' is what almost wiped humanity off the face of the planet.  This condition you asked for would undermine this initiative!

The North African King responded equally stern, I do not believe that it is as you say! In fact I believe it would show the people of Africa that this Global Alliance trusts us to make the right decisions for our people!  We are here now attempting to solidify the African Nations and not be taken advantage of!  The people are our utmost concern and we believe that in order for the people to feel welcome and safe is to allow us to have the decision in policing our own country!

The speaker responded annoyingly, You will have control in the safety of your respective countries, with the assistance of the Global Military and Police!  But you would have to accept that the command is in place to maintain an unbiased regulation of your countries laws!

This argument continued for several minutes, as an aide stepped into the room and approached one of the speakers for the Global Alliance.  The aide leaned down and whispered into the speaker’s ear whose face then seemed more stressed and agitated.  He ushered his aide out of the room then took a moment to process the information he just received.

Seeing his partners distracted thoughts he interjected, Gentlemen, gentlemen please.  We have been on this particular topic for some time now; perhaps a brief recess is in order.  The head speaker quickly stood and stepped out of the conference room before the others had a chance to respond.  He met with his aide and they both walked to his limousine parked outside.  He looked back at the building then stepped into the limo with his aide and waited as he was instructed.  The rest of the speakers remained in the meeting hall to stretch and speak with their assistants.

The two Kings and the High Priest returned to their secured chamber to speak in private; however they were met with surprise guests.  The Kings both had one child; one had a son, the other a daughter.  It was the High Priests' idea to wed the children when they became of age to bring the African Nations together.  It would also give the High Priest the power to rule both North and South Africa as one true Elder.

In the room was the son, standing as he gazed out the glass windowed wall.  He was dressed in his father’s royal robes.  Alongside him were his personal bodyguard and another man that all three men know very well.  The man was Jonas Tyler, one of the major leaders for the African Resistance Coalition.  It was Jonas that led the People’s Resistance against the Kings, more specifically against the tyranny of the High Priest.

The Resistance was aware that if the Unification Treaty went through with the Kings and High Priest, the African Nations would lose their means to survive as a whole.  The main focus was that the Kings were nothing but puppets for the High Priest.  He was able to bribe and strong arm his way into his position and now used the people as an excuse to get what he wanted.

All six men stood staring at each other for a moment until the King for North Africa finally spoke, What is the meaning of this?  Why is this man here and why do you disgrace me by wearing my robes?!?

The Crowned Prince responded, You have disgraced yourself by dishonoring our people and the Crown!  I am here to insure that these treaties are completed for the benefit of the people, not you!

How dare you speak to me in this way?  I am your father and the ruling King of...

Were the ruling King… the prince then turned to face his father. You were the ruling King but not anymore father!  With the help of Jonas and the members of A.R.C., as we speak, both of your compounds are being eradicated.  Your personal armies are being absorbed into A.R.C. and those that do not comply will be eliminated.

The King for South Africa was appalled, This is an outrage! We are attempting to secure the safety of the African people!  You have decided to divide our nations and compromise these negotiations!  Where is my daughter?  She would not have let this happen!  What have you done with her?!?

The Crowned Prince reached into his pocket and removed a data link transmitter.  He walked to the room view screen and plugged the transmitter into it.  He connected to an encrypted frequency then turned toward the three men, Why don't you ask her yourself.

The view screen connected after a moment and the image of the Crowned Princess appeared.  The background behind her was a warzone; numerous buildings charred and blackened from explosive blasts and several members of A.R.C. detained soldiers that were hired by the Kings.  The Crowned Princess smiled, My dear Prince, our plan is successful, both attack groups report complete takeover of both compounds with minimal losses.

Congratulations, my Princess, that is wonderful to hear.

The former King of South Africa was speechless as he stepped toward the view screen.  The Princess looked at him, Hello father.  I do not understand my heir. Why, why have you done this?

I told you before, father, I did not like being told how I was going to live my life.  And being forced to marry a man that I did not know was the worst part.  Had I not voiced my disapproval then, the Crowned Prince would not have told me about his concerns for Africa.  We spent many nights talking and realized that we both shared a love for our country and people.  Together we were able to figure out that neither you nor his father ruled, but it was the High Priest who controlled Africa.  We then made contact with the only ones who could help us insure that the people would be looked after.

The former North African King added, So the two of you sided with the enemy to overthrow and betray us.

The Crowned Prince smiled, Not exactly.  My Princess, please attend to the wounded and clean up the damage, I will be on my way as soon as we are done here.  The Crowned Princess nodded as she closed the transmission.  He turned back to the men as he removed the link, Now, for one more matter to attend to.  To insure that the transition of power will be accepted by all the people of Africa, the High Priest will remain at his position.  But in title only and nothing else; this will give the people of the African Republic what they have been waiting for as well as maintaining a strong spiritual guide, one that embarks in a new future without hoarding materials of the present.

The High Priest responded, Perhaps it would be better that I resign my position all together, so as not to be a burden to the new King and Queen.

If that is what you wish.  However, a liaison for the Global Military spoke on your behalf and convinced us to keep you in a place where we can keep an eye on you.  If not, then you would lose your status and become a citizen of the global populace; you would be subject to the laws of the region and as such, subject to the punishment of any crimes committed.

What liaison, the High Priest questioned.

I am sure you have heard of him but I do not believe you have met.  General, could you join us please, the Crowned Prince requested.

General Malcolm Harris entered from an adjacent room; the two former Kings looked up at him, realizing just how much taller he was compared to the rest of the men in the room.  They had heard about how imposing the General could be but to stand in the same room with the man made both the former Kings un-eased.  The High Priest turned and faced the General without a word.

It is unfortunate that we have to meet under these circumstances the General stated, however, we were informed that this conflict was an internal affair, one that would be rectified and of no worry for the Global Alliance.  Therefore, I was invited to bear witness to the transition and report the outcome to the Global Council.  I have no authority to interfere unless requested by the ruling parties.  However, I do believe that the sins of the past should remain in the past.  If any one of us were to be found guilty of any indiscretion then I believe that each of us would take responsibility for our own actions.  We all must strive for a better future, together.

The General's statement rang in everyone's ears but the High Priest knew exactly what the General had implied as the two men locked eyes.  The High Priest hesitantly agreed, I accept your proposal, my Prince.

The Prince was satisfied, Very good; the High Priest will remain with me, you two return to the conference chamber with this.  The Crowned Prince opened his briefcase and handed a folder to his father.  This is the new Treaty that has been prepared by us.  You will all sign this Treaty and present it to the Global Committee.

The former Kings took the new Treaty and signed without question, realizing the events that just transpired had rendered them both without power; to attempt to negotiate now would fall on deaf ears.  The Kings agreed to step down and allow their offspring to take control, leading a new Africa into an unknown future.

Once the Kings left the chamber they returned to the conference table and handed over the newly signed Treaty.  Jonas Tyler turned to the Crowned Prince, Well my Prince, it would seem that all has gone as planned.  And as agreed by A.R.C. leadership, I hereby inform you that I resign my position among them.

It is a shame that you have to do this, Jonas, however I do understand.  Your face is known to Africa and many would try to remove it.  I hope that you are able to find peace where ever you go.  The Crowned Prince approached Jonas with his hand out and both men clasp each other’s forearm, saying goodbye; Jonas then turned and nodded to General Harris.

The General stated, I will report a peaceful conclusion to the Global Alliance and look forward to future endeavors with you Prince. I hope you have a prosperous reign.  General Harris turned toward the High Priest and nodded, Good day, your Holiness.  Both Jonas and Harris left the three men in the chamber to finalize their efforts.

Jonas and General Harris walked down a hall to enter an elevator.  The elevator door closed to take the two men down when Jonas asked, Did you know who that was?  Harris did not respond.  Do you believe it was wise to leave him with his position?  We both know how resourceful he is and as a Priest he could become untouchable amongst the Faithful.

No one is untouchable, Jonas, not even me.  It’s just a matter of knowing how.  General Harris removed his personal comm-link from his pocket and connected to a specific frequency.

So, was that just an empty threat to keep him occupied? Jonas inquired.

Harris held his hand up a moment to speak into his comm-link, The meeting is over, transmit the information to the Global-Net, all prime channels.  Harris turned off his comm-link and placed it back into his pocket, I never make empty threats.  The elevator stopped and the doors opened.  Harris stepped out as Jonas stood for a moment alone in the elevator realizing what the General had just done.

Jonas walked quickly to catch up with Harris; both men exited the main lobby and approached a limousine parked outside the building gates.  The door opened and the speaker’s aide sat back to allow the General inside.  Before Harris sat in the limo he turned, Jonas, you are a good asset to your country, I can only hope you achieve the same for the Global Alliance.  I look forward to your arrival in the Americas. Welcome to the Global Military.  Harris extended his hand and Jonas accepted it.

608 A.N.E. / 16 August / 09:10 Hour

New D.C...

The representative for the Global Military finished his closing statement and Harris awaited his turn at the podium.  Many press agents were present to report the outcome of the hearing and to see the General in person.  It had been rumored about his appearance, when it became public knowledge that he was infected. However the time in which he was exposed was not known.

Harris stood next to Angela, who appeared to be dwarfed by his massive size, as he prepared himself to make his closing speech while the Vice Judge briefly added his thoughts on the hearing.  The Vice Judge finished and handed the podium over to Harris.  As he approached the podium he was blinded briefly by the flashing lights of multiple cameras as he stepped behind the podium and cleared his throat to begin his statement.

As he spoke, Harris recalled another moment in time that his decisions had changed the course of his life.  It was during the final years of the Unification Campaign that Harris was able to remove the problematic Pirate Initiative from the oceans of the world.

The Pirate Initiative was a controlled anarchy group that disapproved of the world unification, claiming that one world government would grip mankind with an iron hand.  The government would have too much power over the people and that true freedom would be for the people to rule their own homes.  Free enterprise would fall to the control of the Corp; scaring off private traders who would end up being watched by the law.

Harris was able to make a deal with key members of the Initiative for their loyalty and freedom.  Nonetheless, it would not be the great negotiator himself that divided the Pirates but an insider that was planted several years before.

His name was Marcus Wilkins, a military special agent trained by General Harris to gather intelligence on the pirate movements.  Marcus was also a mute,