Ch 3 Chapter 3: Upgrades and Reforms
The Kremlin had its own rhythm—the soft shuffle of shoes on marble, whispered conversations behind closed doors, the faint hum of the heating system that had long been overdue for repairs. I had spent the morning securing the loyalty of Volkov, Petrov, and Makarova. It was a start, but the true test would come when the public watched and history took note.
"Mission update: Expand influence. Begin first public reforms. Upgrade available."
I paused in my private office and summoned the Red System fully. A holographic red star appeared, spinning slowly, lights blinking like a heartbeat.
"Host, congratulations. Your first missions have succeeded beyond initial projections. You have earned your first upgrade."
Options appeared in the air:
1. Leadership Enhancement – Charisma, persuasion, and public speaking improved.
2. Strategy Upgrade – Predictive modeling and foresight for political moves.
3. Technological Insight – Ability to understand and implement modern technology.
4. Resource Manipulation – Subtle influence over economics and materials.
I tapped "Leadership Enhancement." If I was to convince the nation—and the world—that the USSR could rise again, I would need to command attention, inspire loyalty, and dominate every speech, every meeting, every debate.
"Leadership upgraded to Level 2. Public Influence +15%. Mission efficiency improved."
Satisfied, I turned to my next task: reforms. The system displayed the most pressing issues: inefficient agriculture, aging infrastructure, lack of technological progress, and widespread public dissatisfaction.
"Suggestion: Begin with a visible, high-impact reform. Agricultural production can yield quick results and demonstrate your competence."
I convened a televised meeting. Cameras rolled. The Soviet people, accustomed to empty promises and propaganda, watched skeptically.
"Comrades," I began, voice calm but firm, "our nation has faced challenges. For too long, inefficiencies and stagnation have held us back. Today, we begin a new era—not by abandoning our ideals, but by strengthening them with innovation and diligence."
The system whispered: "Activate persuasion module. Target audience emotional response: pride and hope."
I continued, "Starting immediately, we will implement a pilot program in the Volga region, combining traditional Soviet methods with modern agricultural techniques. Yields will increase, and the results will belong to the people, not just the state."
The camera flashed. Officials whispered. The people murmured. It was subtle, but I could feel the first sparks of change.
"Mission success: Agricultural reform initiated. Public Support +10%. Leadership +5."
Next, I tackled the military. The Siberian fleet, long outdated, would be upgraded with new strategies and modernized technology. Again, the system guided me:
"Target: Petrov's personal pride. Present modernization as his legacy. Risk of ideological opposition: 20%."
I visited him personally, presenting detailed plans, simulations, and the promise that the USSR would regain its global military prestige under his command. His eyes lit up—not with suspicion, but excitement.
"Mission success: Military support secured. Influence +10%. Strategy +5."
By the end of the day, the first pieces of my network were in place. The system whispered:
"Host, your rise is beginning. Public perception improves slowly, but internal consolidation is key. Missions will grow in complexity. Be vigilant—rivals may attempt to undermine you."
I leaned back in my chair, feeling the weight of history in my hands. The system hummed softly, a constant companion, and together we had begun reshaping the fate of the Soviet Union.
The road ahead was long, dangerous, and full of uncertainty. But one truth was clear: the Red System had chosen me, and I would lead the USSR to greatness—or die trying.
"Host," it whispered, almost like a promise, "prepare for the first major challenge: the Politburo will test your resolve."
And I smiled. History was no longer beyond my control.