Chapter 1: Marcos Rising
For Marcos Gomez and Asher Sacks this was their finest mission yet. Javan Salih, the former Shiite fighter was in the backseat of their vehicle deceased. It was proof to Supreme Leader Jackson Walter Bond and Madame Edna Neal of their victory. They arrived at the former Governor's Mansion and passed through the checkpoints until they arrived. Madame Edna was pleased with their mission accomplished.
"We have the body of the leader of the encampment," said Marcos.
Marcos and Asher didn't have to remove the body, but a few soldiers were encouraged to do so.
"Great, we'll have this as a reminder to those who dare rebel against the United Iron Patriot Republic, that all things will come to an end," said Madame Edna.
Madame Enda then led Marcos and Asher to a debriefing room where the Supreme Leader was waiting.
"I can see that you were successful in getting rid ofo the camp's leader?" asked Supreme Leader Jackson.
"Yes sir," replied Asher, "we both fiercely fought him and the homeless members of the camp."
Asher had always detested the homeless, even before the revolution. He would often take Los Angeles' Metro subway before he was assaulted one day. The subway was riddled with the homeless often protected by the Common Good Association and the Plebeian Left Society. Asher felt accomplished knowing he sought vengeance against them. Likewise, Marcos also detested them especially their drug use.
"Very good, Asher when January arrives you will take off back to Los Angeles, Madame Diane Kidd who I have appointed as Los Angeles Mayor will assist your Hollywood Czar activities," said Supreme Leader Jackson.
"Understood," said Asher.
"As for Marcos, you will be appointed to Asher's former position being the new Governor of California," continued Supreme Leader Jackson, "I hope that you will do just as fine, if not better with various missions for the republic and for other loyalists."
"Yes, I won't let you down," said Marcos.
"Splendid, you are both dismissed," said Supreme Leader Jackson.
Asher was relieved he was no longer going to be Governor when January would arrive. That meant he would have to start packing now and arrange an address where he could stay. Marcos knew he would spend most of the time in Sacramento, unless if it involved dealing with Asher's activities as Hollywood Czar.
"Well, this is perhaps the last time we'd see each other, " said Marcos.
Asher gave Marcos a warm hug, he was hopeful that Marcos would do well in his missions against the Leftist rebels.
"Stay safe," said Asher.
"Same here," said Marcos.
Asher then signaled for a rider share service request on his app. This time it was an entirely different driver -- Abebe Teshome, an Ethiopian Christian nationalist. Abede had moved to the United States before the revolution and was impressed with the rise of Christian nationalism. He was pleased to pick up Asher.
"I guess, I'm the one taking you home," said Abede.
Asher smiled as he got into the backseat. He knew Daniela Russo had some unfinished business with him in terms of feelings towards him. Perhaps one of the reasons why the Supreme Leader wanted Asher gone was to have his loyalists not be so paranoid about Asher's own activities with Daniele. Abede drove off once Asher secured his seat belt.
