Epilogue

Reconstruction was a slow process. They started with the hospitals and the police stations. Then the fire department and the stores. Ultimately it was decided not to reopen public schools, with the child's learning being taken into the parents' hands. The constitution was recreated to the best of Henry's knowledge, which admittedly wasn't much. The most fun part for Jacob was dismantling the security bots. Then there was the matter of the presidency. And fair election was held for the first time in 74 years. It was unanimously decided that Henry would be president with Jacob as his vp.

"I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States." Henry said while his hand was on one of the last intact bibles.

The crowd cheered and Jacob, who was standing next to Henry, looked at him and said:

"Your grandpa would be proud."

Henry sat down at his desk in the newly rebuilt white house, content. Soon there was a knock on the door.

"Come in!" Henry said.

A man in a burgundy suit with a buzz-cut walked in.

"Mr. President," he said. "A new bill has been proposed to limit travel outside the country except for essential reasons."

"Why?" Henry asked.

"I'm assuming it's in case of another virus." the man said.

"Well, no." said Henry. "I'm vetoing that right now."

"Why?" asked the man.

"We just freed ourselves from an oppressive regime." Henry explained. "We can't be controlling our citizens like that. So, like I said, the bill is denied."

The man in the suit smirked.

"I don't think you get it, sir." he said. "You're a poster boy, so was Peloscer, and the president before her, and the one before him. We call the shots around here."

"Th-" Henry stuttered. "That's horrible. And it stops now. Get out of my office!"

The man glared at Henry.

"I'm afraid it's not that easy." he said. "As long as you do what we say, you stay in office. If you don't, well, you'll have an accident."

"Well then Jacob will take over." Henry responded.

"And what do you think will happen to him if he doesn't obey? Or even... his son? If you don't bow down we'll find someone who will. So what'll it be Mr. President?"

Henry thought about the consequences of either action. He knew what his answer was. He took a deep breathe and spoke.

THE END