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Chapter 22: September 2nd
Novaya Zemlya, Russian Arctic
The sun beat down relentlessly upon the construction crews as they drove the holes for the support beams deep into the permafrost, in search of a stable foundation. The sodden ground sucked at their boots, creating a squelching sound as they strained to release their feet from its’ tight grip. This had once been solidly frozen permafrost year round, but was now a liquefying morass well into the Arctic fall and winter. All of the scientific bases had to be supported by much deeper foundations as the melt layer travelled deeper and deeper into the earth. For some of the old buildings there was no hope, with the apartment and office buildings in the main town of Belushya Guba being left to their fate as the ground beneath them subsided. This reality was evident across the whole of the Far North, making a mockery of those that had touted it as a new frontier for development. For many decades to come it would be a morass of thawing permafrost, with the added attraction of highly-flammable methane venting into the air as microbes broke down the organic material that had been frozen within it for so long. Many communities had already begun their inevitable decline as the roads built on frozen ice and permafrost had become impassable.
“Feels more like the Crimean coast than the Arctic” Olga joked ruefully to Thomas, as they felt the warmth of the sun on their skin and surveyed the open waters that stretched to the horizon. After spending a few seconds working with his tablet, Thomas replied
“Its actually warmer here than where my wife is vacationing on the French Riviera, but I still think that I would rather be in Nice right now.”
Olga smiled, “not so good for Dmitry, he is in Norilsk; a whole city sinking into the permafrost!”
Norilsk, Russian Arctic
Dmitry had not been looking forward to his visit to Norilsk; it was a god-forsaken town in a god-forsaken part of the Arctic with poisoned air that you could nearly feel searing your lungs. It was the nickel capital of Russia though, and without nickel there would be none of the stainless steel that is one of the foundations of modern industrial civilization. So the mines and smelters would continue, and the workers would keep getting paid premium wages to die young. As the plane dropped below the clouds he could see the endless stream of pollution from the smokestacks set against the drab scenery.
An hour later he was surrounded by the leaders of the community in a decaying room within a decaying building. His eyes followed a large crack that had made its way from the floor to the ceiling, meandering back and forth as if it could not make its mind up about which way to go.
At least the coffee is good and strong he thought to himself as he listened to the local leaders drone on about their challenges. After a while he had had enough, “I came here to fully understand what is needed to maintain production and keep the population calm, not to listen to an endless stream of complaints and excuses. Your jobs are to provide solutions, so provide them. The resources of Russia are at your disposal.” He paused, and the room became silent. As he looked around many were unable to make eye contact. “So, anyone got some solutions for me?” He noticed a diminutive figure to his left shift in his seat. And then start to speak.
“The reality is that none of the infrastructure of the city was built for this level of permafrost melt, and we are all a little overwhelmed by the cascading issues that keep hitting us. We need to step back from incremental fixes and accept that the city needs to be replaced; a city that houses 170,000 people. Our citizens are some of the hardiest ones in the country, but even they have a limit to the level of indignity and daily problems that they will put up with. To stop the work disruptions we need to give them hope that things will change for the better, so that they can better deal with the present.”
Dmitry nodded in appreciation, understanding that he had found the leader that was required. “Victor isn’t it? You will lead a team to assess what is required; work with my office to get whatever resources and expertize you require. Don’t hesitate to contact me if there are any roadblocks. I expect a full proposal within the month. Then I will return and present our plans to the citizens.” Dmitry glanced across at the head of his security detail, to make sure that they were ready for his departure. “I must leave now, to visit the mines. Thank you everyone.” With that, he swept out of the room, leaving a stunned silence.
He quickly travelled down the stairs and into the back of the car. As the door clunked shut behind him, he uttered, “Call Olga” at least he could use the time in the car to do something more enjoyable than listen to complaining locals. He relaxed as he saw the image of his beloved in front of him. “Hello my darling, I would so much rather be with you in Novaya Zemlya right now. How’s your trip going …” The car journeyed along the road that was designed to float on top of the undulating permafrost, with a motion more like riding small waves than travelling across the land. It passed the work crews that strived endlessly to fix the parts where the permafrost had subsided.
Chapter 23: September 4th
Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, United States
Bretton Woods, the home of the 1944 conference where those that were winning the world war had met to agree how they would rule the world once that war was over. A fitting setting for the world leaders to agree on the measures needed for the survival of modern civilization. Mount Washington towered above the hotel that bore its name. The hotel, with its bright white walls and red roof standing out from the greenery around it; looking more like a princely residence in the Alps than a hotel in the North Eastern United States. A place built for the wealthy, especially old money, to enjoy their leisure time.
The Presidential Suite 7am
President Ashbridge was not a happy man as he sat in his luxurious suite, surrounded by his senior financial advisers. No matter how many times he had asked them to go back and look at things anew, they returned with the same depressing news. There was no way out of it; the only way to cut emissions at the rate required would be to shrink the economy. Increased energy efficiency and switching to renewables simply could not deliver the goods in the time required. The whole financial system only really functioned when the economy was growing, so he would be residing over an economic and financial crash that was the direct result of his own policies! He would have to show his fellow Americans that climate change was the greatest threat that their country had ever faced, one requiring the deep levels of sacrifice that were becoming apparent. He pictured himself sitting in the Oval Office, somberly looking into the camera, “My fellow Americans”.
“Mr. President?” Richard Evans queried. Ashbridge’s attention returned to the room and the eyes expectantly awaiting his next utterance. He looked thoughtfully back at them and then contemplatively down at the floor, a trick that he had learnt many years before to give him time to think of something while still appearing in control.
“Richard, walk me through the reasons why we have to cut pensions again, I really need to get my head around this.”
Evans complied, “Pension funds invest heavily in stocks, with the assumption that future increases in share prices will help fund future pension payments. Those forecast higher share prices greatly reduce the level of current contributions that future pensioners have to make. After the early twenties crash we forced the pension funds to reduce the assumed growth rate in share prices and cut payouts, but they are still heavily dependent upon a rising stock market. With the planned accelerated cuts in emissions, the economy will contract over the next decade. This will be reflected in share prices, as the assumed growth rate in company earnings will be revised drastically down. The pension fund equity assets will then shrink considerably; forcing another round of painful cuts and increases in contributions. The same will go for individual pension saving accounts.”
Ashbridge interrupted, “so, to save our country we have to cut emissions drastically, which means that we have to shrink the economy in the short-term, which means that we will force pension plans and individual pension savers to slash pension amounts for the second time in about a decade?”
Evans nodded in agreement, “Insurance companies will also take losses as their bond portfolios get hit by the increased risk of default due to the economic contraction. At the least, they will have to significantly raise insurance premiums – that is if they remain solvent. Those holding pension annuities may also be severely impacted. This is why I am proposing an extended financial system shut down, as was done in the 1930’s. This will give us time to thoroughly review each institution and take whatever actions are required. We will try to focus the pain as much as possible within the wealthier citizens, to both maintain a basic level of income for the rest and to gain support for the harsh measures from the population in general. We cannot have any multi-million dollar payouts to CEO’s while we slash the pensions of the middle class.”
The President nodded agreement, “yes, those that made out like bandits getting us into this bloody mess should be seen to be paying the price. So be it, you have my approval Richard. Great work everyone, I very much appreciate the long hours that have gone into this.” With that he stood up, and appreciatively shook the hands of his advisers before motioning for them to leave. He then sat back down in his chair, alone in the room for a few minutes to think about that speech. James Dixon, his speechwriter, would have to do the best work of his life. He laughed to himself in a self-pitying way, before abruptly stopping as the pain from his ribs reminded him of his injuries.
“Mr. Calabrez is ready for your next meeting Mr. President” advised his assistant as she poked her head around the door. He nodded his approval and the door swung open to reveal the always well-dressed figure of the Head of Homeland Security. As Jose entered, the President raised himself to his feet.
“Please Mr. President, don’t force yourself up just for me, those ribs must still be quite painful” Jose exclaimed.
“I have experienced much worse in my life” was the smiling response as they shook hands and then sat down. “We will soon be delivering a lot of bad news, and forcing through a lot of sacrifices. How are your plans going for keeping a lid on things Jose?” The President had made him the point man for managing both the messaging of the changes and the required internal security responses. He had made a good choice.
“We can very much wrap this up in a nationalist and patriotic flag Mr. President; with the New York hurricane and the attempted assassination giving us a high degree of public legitimacy and support. People will rally around the flag, and appeals to a higher purpose will pull everyone together. Things like working for the preservation of the nation and future generations, rather than selfish consumerism and profit making. The mood of the country is ready for that, and the public prosecutions of the opposition are helping. Our opinion polling is showing a very solid majority with unflinching support for you and your actions against your enemies. There is an endless amount of dirt that we can dig up on the opposition to completely discredit them. They are a wonderful enemy on which to focus the people’s anger upon, allowing us a lot of space to do what is required.” Jose smiled happily to himself.
“The media also understand their role, and are in the most part very enthusiastic to get on the bandwagon. They are like weather vanes, once they sense that the winds of power have changed they change direction themselves incredibly quickly. Those that don’t will be quietly dealt with; usually only a visit or the mention of possible actions is required. Amazing how spineless such arrogant media-moguls can be when shown real power. There is also a useful amount of paranoia about the evils that Homeland Security can bring down upon our opponents, especially after the ‘unfortunate’ deaths following the assassination attempt.” Jose again could not hide the happy and contented smile; he really loved his new role.
“Looks like you have things well in hand then Jose” the President said appreciatively, as he reached for the telephone sitting on the side table next to him. “You can send Richard back in now”, he barked into the mouthpiece, as Jose observed with a puzzled look on his face. Richard reentered, sitting down next to Jose, as the two exchanged glances. He and the President had spent many long hours thinking about how they could most effectively redirect the country’s resources to drive a rapid drive to a renewable energy future. They had arrived at an audacious plan, one that would threaten even the rich and powerful that had supported them. Only if they moved fast, destroying the basis of opposition before it could get started, could they be successful. The small window for action had opened up, and they must act quickly before it closed again. The President motioned for Richard to explain things to Jose.
“As the changes that the President will be announcing would trigger a financial crash, we will close the financial markets and the financial institutions for a period. While they remain closed we have the chance to fundamentally change the balance of power. Obama had his chance in 2009 and completely blew it, just handed the power straight back to the bankers who then gave themselves big bonuses after blowing up the world economy. We did manage to cut the bankers down to size did after the early-20’s crash. Now we need to finish the job to be able to fund the new energy infrastructure, make sure that we keep the support of the majority, and cut off future threats from the rich before they can respond. The government is the sovereign and has the right to create money, a right that we will take back from the bankers. Instead of printing money to save the fat cats, we will print money to fund the new energy investments and to make things easier for the not so rich. The Canadians managed to do this for forty years after the Great Depression of the 1930’s but then the moneymen managed to regain control.”
The President interjected, “no need for the government that represents the people to have to beg on one knee for money from the financiers that we ourselves have the right to create.”
Richard continued, “All new money will be spent into existence by the government; with a one-off creation of money to make sure that small depositors are made whole, to fund debt-forgiveness for the less well off majority, and to replace government debt. All retail and small business accounts will be moved to credit unions, based upon geographical location. Bigger depositors will be left with what can be rescued from the winding up of the big banks. The issuance of individual carbon quotas will also help restrict conspicuous consumption by the richer elements of society. Together with the move to a universal single-payer health-care system and controls on drug costs, these policies should greatly increase our support among the majority. All alternative currencies will be banned, as will any derivatives trading not directly linked to real economic activity. No more casino finance. After the initial period all new money creation will be controlled to keep inflation within a set range and to make sure resources are focused on building out the new energy infrastructure.“ He paused to allow Jose to fully take in what he was saying.
“So, the government is taking over the financial system and the health-care system?” queried a slack-jawed Jose.
“No, taking back the right to create money and cutting the financial system down to an appropriate size; basically right-sizing the financial system and focusing it on the funding of the real economy rather than speculation and financial manipulation. For health-care, we will be the single payer but not take over the delivery of the services.”
Ashbridge smiled, “are you o.k. Jose?” he asked.
“You will be creating a lot of very annoyed rich and powerful people, are you sure that you can handle them effectively?” It was time for the President to deliver a few more surprises to Jose.
“The state of emergency will remain in place until I am sure that we have dealt with them. Any challenges will be met the full force of the state, no matter where they come from. I do understand that these moves will shock many of those that have been supporting us, but it is time that we outgrew our current coalition and make a new one. Cutting out so much profiteering and rent seeking in the economy will help us lessen the impact for the majority of our citizens; they will also see that the burden is being shared equitably. If we move quickly and decisively we can rapidly consolidate our position, painting any opposition as being both treasonous and selfishly protecting their riches at the expense of the nation. That’s where you come in.”
“Bread and circuses”, Jose said with a wry smile. “The Roman leadership knew that as long as they kept the population well fed and well entertained, they would be allowed to rule. We bring down the costs for the majority, including those in the security services, while at the same time we can make a spectacle of the greed and treachery of our enemies. Even now so many of them are arrogant enough to make such easy targets.”
Ashbridge nodded in agreement, “Exactly, but that is not all. We need your skills to build a wedge of support within those industrialists that will benefit from the infrastructure spending and to assuage some of the lesser losers. We will be redirecting very large expenditures to rapidly build out that infrastructure, including a big chunk of the defence budget. As that will be to increase the economic security of the homeland it can be directed through you; giving you a very large carrot to add to all those sticks.”
Jose was impressed, “Clever, use the guy from the elites to discipline them, console them, and bribe them with government contracts.” He struggled to hide his pleasure at the thought of the incredible power that was being placed in his lap.
Chinese President’s Suite 7:30am
Zhaohui, Chang and the President Hufang sat around an ornate table enjoying an exquisite breakfast. After noticing a deficiency in Chang’s cup, Hufang lifted up the classic silver teapot and poured some more Earl Grey into it and Chang tapped his finger on the table in appreciation. Hufang and Ashbridge would be meeting privately for most of the morning and he wanted to be with his most trusted friends before the meeting. The Ambassador had already advised him of the situation within the United States since the attempted assassination.
“It does seem that the President has consolidated his power extremely effectively over the past couple of weeks,” Hufang commented, “his immediate enemies are either dead, in prison, or being hunted down. In addition, he has the full support of the general population, the security services and the armed forces. His position within the United States may now be as strong as mine within China. With the indefinite postponement of elections he now also has time on his side.” His breakfast companions nodded in agreement.
“Are you thinking that the two of you could form an alliance now that his position is more secure?” asked Zhaohui.
“It will have to be a very delicate discussion, a bit like a porcupine mating dance. I have to be absolutely sure that he is not under the influence of those forces that seek to dominate us through the transition period and beyond. Is he truly a force for progressive change or simply playing the populist while he reinforces the already powerful? The fossil-fuel interests may have been vanquished, but the rest of the oligarchy is still in place. They will work hard to make sure that they place as much as the pain of transition as possible on the rest of society, and consolidate their own power. We need to be able to manage them, rather than they manage us.” Hufang sat back in his chair and sipped his tea to give the others a chance to take in what he had said. The three of them sat quietly for a few moments, before Zhaohui broke the silence.
“How will we know if he is truly of the same mind as us?” she asked.
“Any move by him to wrest control of banking and money creation would show that he is planning to be fully in control, rather than be controlled. He who controls a nations currency truly controls that nation. Also, any moves to fundamentally downsize the military-industrial complex would be a positive indication” was the response.
“If he does any of those things there will be many more powerful groups that want him dead!” said Chang.
“Absolutely correct Chang, such things would be very high risk moves by Ashbridge that would make enemies of some of his current powerful friends. He would need to move fast to reduce their power while making sure that his position with the military and security services is impregnable. His replacement of the V.P. with a very strong supporter helps. All of the people in the senior government positions are now fully aligned with him. It would help if he makes an example of one of the ‘progressive’ elites, sending a message to the others that they are not as secure as they thought they were; in the same way that we do on a regular basis to keep them in line. It is encouraging that he went after the bankers following the financial crash, shows that he is not beholden to power in the same way as his predecessors were.”
Chang smiled, “so it’s a good sign if he plays ‘wack a billionaire’?” he said, causing Hufang to laugh more heartily than he was used to.
“I would not quite put it that way, but yes regular ‘billionaire wacking’ is a useful policy. They need to be reminded of their place. They can keep their money, but need to understand who is really in control. Politics needs to rule economics, not the other way round.”
Pacific Ocean, Off Manta, Ecuador 8:15am (9:15am in Bretton Woods)
Hector scanned the waters in front of the fishing boat as he maneuvered it through the dead fish floating on top of the water. He had been fishing in these waters for twenty years and had never seen such widespread devastation before.
His son Carlos entered the bridge, “This is what the scientists have been warning us about, low oxygen levels driven by the warmth from the El Nino and climate change”, he stated as he shook his head.
“Let’s hope its just the El Nino, otherwise the traditional fishing will be gone for good. I heard that jellyfish seem to like these new conditions, perhaps we should look into what we need for catching them?” his father replied ruefully.
“Looks like some boats got lucky” Carlos said as he pointed toward the horizon.
Hector perked up, “maybe the anoxic area is small, and we can get back to fishing once we are out of it”.
His son had raised binoculars to his eyes and was scanning the fishing boats, “that’s strange, I don’t see anyone on deck and the equipment is completely stationary” he said before being caught short by a strange smell that wafted through the bridge. The words rotten eggs entered his mind and he strained to make sense of it. Then he saw the bodies lying on the deck of one of the boats, and a sinking feeling entered his stomach as the reality dawned upon him hydrogen sulphide. “Poison Gas, we have to turn around right now!” he blurted out to his father, startling him. His father stood transfixed for a second, looking back at his son, then swung the boat around.
He grabbed the microphone to warn the others “everyone turn around now, there is poison gas here” he shouted and then repeated. The fleet of fishing boats moved as one as it turned away from the death zone that they had so nearly become their resting place. “How did you know?” the father asked the son.
“Science class at school, they taught us how microbes that produce hydrogen sulphide can thrive in waters that are low in oxygen, and that it smells like rotten eggs.”
Hector laughed, “Seems that your mother’s insistence on keeping you in school just saved our lives!” Then both of them went quiet as they thought about their not so lucky fellow fishermen and their families. Fishing had always been a dangerous occupation, but being gassed on the open ocean was something that they had never needed to be concerned about before.
The Presidential Suite, Bretton Woods 9:30am
The leaders of the two most powerful nations in the world had worked their way through the usual niceties and polite conversation required at the beginning of such meetings. Now they were ready to move on to more substantive discussions, Ashbridge made the first move.
“My sources tell me that it seems that you will be sourcing your reduced oil imports from Russia, Iran and Iraq, a move that will intensify the impact of the proposed fossil fuel reductions for the other Middle East exporters.”
Hufang smiled nearly imperceptibly, down to business he thought before responding. “In international affairs it is always important to remember who have consistently acted as friends and who have not. Good behaviour should be rewarded, and bad behaviour punished. We are simply taking care of our friends. The Saudis and their like can simply go back to riding camels and living in tents with their radical terrorist brethren. Let’s remember that it was Saudis who brought down your twin towers. With your own oil and gas resources, and those that you have control of in Africa and South America, you will also not have any need of them. There may be a bit of a transitional problem for Europe and Japan, but why pass up an opportunity to remove ourselves from the Middle Eastern quagmire for good?”
Hufang’s comments were close to Ashbridge’s line of thinking. Pulling out of the Middle East would free up a large amount of resources, including the sizeable subsidies given to Israel that could be redirected toward the energy transition. With the Arab economies in deep trouble, it would be much easier to rationalize the reduction in aid to Israel, but he needed some other assurances.
“I can work with that, as long as the Lebanon and Syria are treated as neutral countries, an official neutrality enforced by our militaries. They will provide a buffer between the Iranians and Israelis. That needs to be in place before the climate agreement.”
Hufang nodded in agreement, “I have no problem with that. It’s a good start to the further military de-escalation required as we both need to redirect resources toward the transition. We need a firm acceptance, of course not a public one, that our sphere of influence in South East Asia will be respected. That will include an acceptance by Japan of their new position with respect to us; their continued military build-up is very troubling. I am sure that you can understand our concerns given their history with both our countries.”
Ashbridge responded “that would also include a unified, demilitarized and neutral Korea, a joint exercise would send the right message. Neither of us needs the continued headache and it would certainly make the Japanese feel safer.”
This surprised Hufang, something that he had not thought would be raised. He took a moment to think, perhaps Ashbridge was stepping out from under the shadow of his powerful backers to be his own man? If Ashbridge was ready to accept China’s regional supremacy and remove the areas of tension between the two countries, this could be the start of a very fruitful relationship. “A joint operation would send a very positive message, as did our operation in Pakistan. Would also strengthen our hand further in negotiations with the other countries when getting them to accept emission reductions. It will also send a very strong message to our citizens and reduce the influence of the warmongers. With our military supremacy and control of the U.N. Security Council we can very much discipline the other players. Our military teams should definitely get to work on this.”
The U.S. President realized that he had not clearly defined what he meant by South East Asia, “Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia and Malaysia would remain within our sphere to forestall any instability and responses from India. With your oil and gas imports now not dependent upon the chokepoint of the Straits of Malacca, that should not be a problem.”
“I can’t accept Malaysia, we already have a very large presence there facilitated by the Chinese Diaspora. You can have Indonesia, as long as they stay open to business with us. The same of course, goes for Australia and New Zealand.” Hufang considered that economics would act like gravity to pull the other countries into China’s sphere, so this was simply delaying the inevitable. New Zealand was now very dependent upon China as a market for its food exports, while Australia was already struggling with extreme climate change and greatly reduced fossil fuel exports. Indonesia was already in semi-anarchy without its coal and oil exports, surviving on the lifeline of its dwindling natural gas reserves. Malaysia was different; it had jumped beyond resource extraction through to clean-energy driven industrialization, with much help from China.
Ashbridge understood the realities of his position, and considered that this was a good deal and nodded, “Agreed. We also keep the status quo in Europe, Africa, and South America; any moves there will be met with great hostility from my administration. They will remain open for business, but within our political and military sphere.”
Again Hufang could compromise in the short-term, better to shrink the opponent slowly down to size than be overly aggressive. Economics would win in the long run, as long as it could be insulated somewhat from international politics. The U.S. would be internally focused for a while, aiding China’s quiet incremental approach. This was like a game of Go, strategy and patience are great advantages to have. “I have no problem with that” was his response.
Dividing up the world had made them both thirsty and Ashbridge ordered some more tea. “Let’s summarize on paper what we have discussed, so that there won’t be any misunderstandings later on” Hufang said, “I don’t want either of us to fall into the trap that Gorbachev made with those verbal promises about NATO not expanding into Eastern Europe”.
They shared a knowing smile, and Ashbridge nodded in agreement, “of course”.
The Presidential Suite 12:30pm
General McAdams, Kelly and Jose reviewed the notes from the morning’s meeting. “To think of all the good men we lost in Iraq, to just give it up so easily is deeply annoying” McAdams stated as he shook his head.
Ashbridge answered “I hear what you are saying Alexander, but we both know that it was lost before we started. All we managed to do was destroy the country’s institutions and hand them over to Iranian influence. Such a waste, apart for the defence industry of course; war is always very profitable for some. Right now we need all of our people and resources for the transition ahead. Without the need for their oil we don’t need to sacrifice any more of our people in the Middle East. Without our bases there they also have much less reason to hate us, a definite win on all counts. The Chinese are welcome to be the new hated outsiders on the block.”
Kelly responded “Iran and Iraq are turning into desert anyway, so China is not getting much of a prize. In a decade or so, once they don’t need the oil and gas anymore, they will probably walk away”
McAdams was having none of it, “No, the last thing they want is a failed state that endangers their economic corridors with Europe and has easy access to infiltrate the Russian homeland. China will help keep them stable enough to protect their interests. They are already working with us to protect the Suez Canal given the escalating issues in Egypt”, he said.
“That does make sense” stated Kelly flatly.
“I think that you should see if you can develop a more beneficial relationship with Hufang,“ said Jose, “seems like there is a possibility for a good alignment between you and he.”
Ashbridge nodded his head in agreement, “yes, I will take the opportunity in the afternoon session.”
Chinese President’s Suite 12:40pm
“A good outcome to the morning’s talks”, said Chang after reading through the notes “we have the stability needed to focus on deepening our international relationships. It’s obvious that Ashbridge understands that he needs to focus internally.” Satisfied with his assessment, he took a bite of his sandwich.
“Yes, I think that he is ready to work with me against those that would try to control us. We will see this afternoon. I will have to tread carefully though, not to expose our position too much without anything to gain” Hufang responded.
Hotel Grounds 3:00pm
The two Presidents were happy to get out of the hotel into the pleasant temperature and beautiful scenery outside. At a discrete distance their joint security teams surrounded them in a protective cordon, whilst a quiet human and canine army scanned the territory for miles around. Little black towers spread around the grounds hummed quietly as they spread their jamming frequencies far and wide, and scanned for any nano-scale listening devices. Only the distant whirring of helicopters, with their infrared detectors, could be heard above the light breeze rustling through the trees.
Hufang commented “The massive expenditures for the rock weathering work will provide very significant incentives for India and Brazil to toe the line on the climate plan. In addition, the scale of the work will be a boon for the mining corporations. As we will be the biggest funders of the work, we need to work closely together to make sure that it is run efficiently and that the benefits are shared equitably. Our citizens cannot see it as a one-way money giveaway to others.”
Ashbridge nodded in agreement, “Yes, it is an opportunity that should not be wasted; both to create jobs at home and to produce a very supportive corporate constituency. We do have the chance through the redirection of resources to rebalance the relationship between the state and the corporations. With the back of the fossil fuel industry now broken, and the huge renewable infrastructure contracts there is a real window of opportunity.”
Hufang saw the opportunity that he had been patiently waiting for to see if Ashbridge was ready to challenge his own backers and tread an independent path. “That’s true in China where we have a tight leash on the financial industry, and we have our own state banks to fund any required expenditures, but in your county you are still very much at the mercy of the financiers. Even after the measures that were taken after the crash.”
He was met with a knowing smile, “I very much see the benefit of your position, it is something that must be put in place in this country. It may take a while, but it will be done” was the reply. The Chinese President was satisfied; he and Ashbridge seemed to be very much on the same page.
“It seems that we share much more than just the enjoyment of New England lager, perhaps we should enjoy a drink while we explore the future of our partnership further?” he asked.
Ashbridge agreed, “an excellent idea!” and he motioned to the closest secret service agent who walked toward them.
“Andy, get us a couple of Samuel Adams lagers will you?”
Smiling, the secret service agent replied “of course sir”.
Andy raised his wrist toward his mouth and talked into the microphone, “two Samuel Adams lagers required”.
After a pause, “could you repeat that please?” came the request in his earpiece.
“Samuel Adams lager, two bottles, the original version. Make sure they are cold”. Back in the hotel, in the security control room, a man picked up the telephone that was a direct line to the designated day manager.
“The Presidents require two bottles of Samuel Adams lager, the original, cold.” Within minutes, two cold bottles of lager sat snugly within a cooler that was riding on the back of a golf cart toward where the Presidents were walking. Driven by a secret service agent with the day manager in the passenger seat. The cart glided to a halt and the manager opened the cooler, removed the caps from the bottles and placed the two lagers onto a silver tray. Escorted by the secret service agent, he then made his way toward the Presidents.
“Lagers incoming” the agent intoned into his sleeve. Hufang and Ashbridge paused as they noticed their drinks approaching.
“Your drinks sirs” the manager politely stated as he offered the tray to them.
“Thankyou” came the joint response.
Met with a measured “you are welcome”. After getting back onto the cart, the manager relaxed and could feel his heart rate subsiding. He reflected on how stressful it could be simply serving a couple of beers to some guests. Two guests who just happened to be the most powerful people in the world.
“It’s good that you didn’t drop the bottles, I would have probably had to shoot you as a precautionary measure” joked the secret service agent.
Ashbridge and Hufang clinked the bottles together, “cheers” they shared appreciatively and drank to their new sense of partnership.
“We will most definitely need a peace dividend to help free up resources for the climate initiatives, our two defence ministers should be tasked with agreeing on some significant reductions” Ashbridge proffered.
“Agreed” came the response “such reductions will also help send a message about the true security threat that is climate change. It will also help cut our defence contractors down to size. Best to keep them on the defensive.” Hufang smiled at his unintended pun.
“Yes, what we need is clean energy and electrified transport, not yet more expensive and unneeded weaponry. We already have enough to fry the Earth many times over, and the India-Pakistan incident shows the dangers of uncontrolled escalation in this volatile world.”
Ashbridge’s eyes were drawn to an object that had emerged into the sky from the tree line and seemed to be headed toward them. Hufang turned to see what had grabbed Ashbridge’s attention. The shape of a bird became more apparent as it came closer, then its size became apparent. It’s huge wingspan stretched out farther than the length of man. They stood, transfixed, as it glided towards them. A wave of tension went through the protective detail as they caught sight of the huge bird closing in on the two men, mixed with some confusion and indecision about how to react.
The bird landed gracefully, but also powerfully, on a pedestal about 20 feet away from Ashbridge and Hufang. It’s stare directed toward them, as if it were conferring a message. For over a minute the two men observed the magnificent creature, as their security detail awaited ready to shoot it at any hint of danger. Then it leapt into the air, flapped its muscular wings, and flew back toward the tree line.
“A Golden Eagle, the symbol of opportunity and a new beginning” commented Hufang.
“It seems that someone, or something, wants us to get the message”, Ashbridge replied.
Kennebunkport, Maine 3:00pm
Jaya Rao breathed in the pleasant breeze as it caressed her skin, such a pleasure after the incessant heat of the Indian summer. “We could be on a different planet compared to the problems back at home” she opined to Venkata and the Ambassador.
“I thought that this location would provide a pleasant interlude for you before the plunge into the negotiations at Bretton Woods” the Ambassador said in a voice of silkiness and authority that exuded a wealthy and learned upbringing.
Although Venkata was his senior, he had to fight the urge to defer to such a voice; and the general demeanor that went with it “an excellent choice” stumbled from his mouth.
The Ambassador reclined languidly in his chair, “my contacts tell me that Ashbridge and Hufang are in discussions at Bretton Woods, and that an American envoy has been dispatched to make sure that the Brazilian President is on board with the proposals. Of course, you will be meeting directly with the U.S. and Chinese leaders. That is arranged for tomorrow and we have a full briefing and support in place prior to both meetings. The other permanent members of the United Nations Security Council will be arriving today and tomorrow.”
He was stopped by the look of displeasure on Jaya’s face, “Yes, the old colonial rulers of France and the U.K. together with the Russians. At least with Pakistan now no longer an issue we may get our rightful place as a permanent member, especially with the backing of China and the United States. Please continue” she said.
“Things do look well aligned with respect to the position on the security council. There is still much sympathy for the nation after the level of control that you showed in response to the horrific attack upon our capital. Very impressive, and a brilliant move from a diplomatic point of view.”
Jaya smiled at the smooth flattery of her Ambassador, “I do need to discuss something privately with the minister” Jaya stated.
After taking a moment to understand he responded, “of course Prime Minister” and he rose to his feet. Then “Minister”, as he turned to Venkata before making his exit.
Once he had left, Jaya leaned forward toward Venkata, smiling “I know, these ambassador types can make anyone feel inferior. It took me a while to become inoculated. A lesson that I have learnt is that the surer of themselves they are the greater the probability that they are wrong. I much prefer a bit of humility and introspection in my advisors and ministers.”
Venkata smiled back “I am glad to hear it.”
“Tell me your thoughts about the summit?” asked Jaya. “I feel that the proposed agreement is the best option. If we do not reduce the warming fast large parts of India will suffer increasing crop losses or even become desertified, and sea level rise will turn untold millions in Bangladesh into refugees. Then of course, there is the worsening climatic situation in Pakistan. At least with the geo-engineering option we have the commitment from the other nations to help feed our people and to offer financial and technical assistance. The large-scale rock-weathering program will also offer an economic boost. There will be a lot of political fallout from the solar radiation management program, especially with its possible impact upon the monsoon, but there are really no other options available.”
Venkata looked resignedly back at Jaya.
“Just as I thought” she replied “between a rock and a hard place, seems to be my political fate! At least we have the international sympathy and support from the Pakistani attack that we can leverage.” They sat there quietly, surrounded by New Englanders going about their business and enjoying the unseasonably warm weather.
Private Jet, Above New England 4:00pm
“Mr. President, given the scale of the expenditures involved the U.S. population must see that the funds are being spent effectively and that they benefit American industry. Given the other sacrifices that we will be asking for, there will be no other way” Kelly implored.
Carlos Vargas, the President of Brazil, observed her with barely hidden contempt they send a child to do their bidding he thought to himself about the young woman that had joined his plane in Washington. He was used to getting his own way, both in business and now in politics. Yes he had to bow his head now and again to the northern bully, and now the eastern one as well, but he would do what was best for him and his backers. They came first; then of course there was Brazil and keeping the populace quiet with his rhetoric. Now to deal with the annoying American, “my country has been a climate change saint when compared to the wasteful, polluting, United States. Now you want us to dig a massive hole and spread the contents over our forests, while at the same time stopping our poor from being able to claim more farmland. This is hypocrisy on a massive scale. To add insult to injury you then demand detailed accounting of the mining activities and an unfair share of the economic benefits!”
It was time for Kelly to educate the Brazilian President in the new world reality; she was finished with being polite. Her voice took on a tougher edge, and her eyes hardened “this proposal is supported by the leaders of both the United States and China, and I have the full authority of the U.S. President in these discussions. These are discussions, not negotiations. It would be unfortunate if your offshore accounts and briefings to the U.S. Embassy were made public, and the Presidents of the two most powerful nations on Earth were to publicly express their lack of confidence in you” she said with a calm determination.
“Kelly” the President stated and then paused with the look of a disappointed father on his face “if you are going to try to threaten me you could at least be a little more subtle about it. Then again you are American, a country not known for its subtlety. You don’t think that we have our fair share of embarrassing revelations available for use against other country’s leaders? I am actually quite offended that you would consider that such simple threats would suffice with me. Having survived in Brazilian politics, I can assure you that I am used to such things and it takes a lot more to move me.” Vargas understood that he was positioned between two giants, who could easily crush him, and that the attractive young sociopath sitting in front of him would be more than happy to give the order. He had been in such a situation many times though, and one must finesse such moments to gain the greatest advantage rather than just rolling over. Especially to one of Ashbridge’s little bureaucratic attack dogs, rather than the man himself.
“Let me help you Kelly. Anything is possible, but I am sure that you understand the reality of money and politics. Substantial lubrication will be required for such a major ask, together with a very public showing of respect for my country. That can only come from the President himself.”
Kelly understood that she had miscalculated “Although the basis of the agreement cannot be changed in any substantive way, we can be flexible with respect to the terms under which they are agreed to. It is important though that things are seen to be above board and fair in public, even if that it not the case in reality. With the history of your country’s political processes that will be of great importance.”
Vargas smiled, as she now understood her place. “The previous corrupt elite was wiped away, opening up the possibility of my Presidency. I am much more careful at generating a public image of trustworthiness and honesty. These things can be managed as long as one does not get too arrogant and careless.”
Kelly nodded in agreement, “I am sure that we can come to terms that can be personally committed to with the President”, she replied.
A distasteful, but necessary, evil she thought to herself of the pompous man sat opposite her.
The Presidential Suite 7:00pm
Jaya Rao was shown into the suite and Ashbridge greeted her with a warm smile, “so good to see Jaya, I hope that you have managed to have at least a little break from the incredibly difficult situation that you are managing so well?” They shook hands as she replied.
“Thankyou Mark, I must admit that the past couple of days have been a bit of a welcome break from the endless stream of crises that I seem to be managing every day. Your help and support has been much appreciated.” They sat down opposite each other, separated by a small table.
“I took the liberty of ordering us some tea, if remembered correctly you favorite is Darjeeling.”
Ashbridge poured the tea as Jaya smiled appreciatively and commented “one bright spot from the crisis is that it does seem to have galvanized the international community into a readiness for action. Looking over the precipice does seem to focus the mind on what is truly important.”
Ashbridge nodded, resignedly accepting the truth of Jaya’s statement, “Yes, sad but true. Sometimes it takes such troubles for us to overcome our petty differences and focus on the common good.”
After sipping her tea, Jaya got down to business. “As we discussed before, my government can agree to the proposals as long as the side agreements on food and financial aid, together with technology transfer, are met. The continued multilateral control of Pakistan goes without saying of course. We may need further support to deal with the deteriorating situation in Bangladesh, but we can deal with that reality after the negotiations on the proposal have been successful. No need to complicate things further at this late stage.”
Ashbridge was happy to hear the positive message from the Indian President, “So glad to hear that Jaya, having India in our corner will greatly aid the progress of the proposals.” Jaya decided not to raise the Security Council issue, as it did not seem like the appropriate time.
Bretton Woods, Room 702 11pm
“So are you now Ashbridge’s new attack dog, brandishing your teeth to scare the foreigners?” Jim said playfully, as he ran his fingers softly along the inside of Kelly’s naked thigh.
“Yes, I can bite at the most unexpected moments” she replied.
“Well, you better be careful not to bite off more than you can chew; and make sure that whatever you bite off isn’t something that you would really enjoy having the use of later” was Jim’s comeback. He then kissed her stomach before making his way down to the mound between her legs as her body stiffened.
How do you find the earlier chapters? There's no index.