Jump 126: Ghost in the Shell

Jump #126: Ghost in the Shell
>Queen of Wands (A seducer who calculatingly dons the guise of what others desire. A cocky and domineering person, who pushes anyone or anything aside to get what she wants.)
At first I thought that was Motoko, but as I wrote up the bulid, I realize it's me. I'm not going to let anything stand in my way.
>Age: 29
>Location: Russia
>Identity: Drop-In
>Well-Read (Free, Drop-In)
Considering how many people have so many obscure references to everything, this is a must.
>Eye for Detail (700, Drop-In)
It's not as though I can't already do this... but honestly, it never hurts to shore up old abilities with new ones.
>Human(oid) Calculator (600)
>implying you can't do this with Savant
>not getting this perk anyway
>Super-Class-A (0)
Ah, this should be useful, both for now and for later. Considering all that I'm going to have to deal with... yeah, this is a must.

You know, when one can already wirelessly interface with technology, and indeed directly convert themselves into data, it makes hacking things far more interesting. Moreso when one can, theoretically, use the internet to travel to any location. It means a trip to Japan is quick and easy-

Actually, you know what, screw that. Have you SEEN the global map? This is a crapsack world. Kid gloves are off - I intend to change that. Send in the clones. Whip out the wands. We're going to shake the establishment until it all comes tumbling down, and erect something better in its place.

Step 1: Take control of certain nations that are problem children. Forcibly if necessary. In most cases it will be. Essentially, this means the major world powers - perhaps not India, but China, the Soviet Federation, and Imperial America.
>"You may be wondering what gives a man the right to take control of your nations this way. I should argue that you have long since ceded control of your nations. I intend to give them back to you, the people. One man, one vote. That is how democracy works."

Step 2: Dissolve the major powers. The Russian Federation does not get to keep nations that are not Russia (especially on other continents). China does not get to keep nations that are not China. Imperial America does not get to remain an empire. Borders are restored to the old status quo.
>"I don't want to become an emperor. That's not my business, despite appearances - although I easily could, I don't want to rule or conquer everyone. I should like to help everyone if possible. The world went insane, nearly thirty years ago, and a nuclear holocaust ushered in an age of haves and have-nots. It is within my power to change it, and change it I shall. We have machinery to give abundance, and it should not leave us in want.

Step 3: Work in concert with major technological developers to rapidly make their tech cheap and easy to sell. Incorporate cybernetics from other worlds. Incorporate cloning and bio-modification. The end effect will not be a singularity, but it will not be far from it. Terraform the planet, fix up those ridiculous craters and restore arable land.
>"In this world, there is room for everyone. The good earth is rich, and can provide for everyone. The way of life should be free and beautiful. Even now, my voice is reaching billions throughout the world. Billions of despairing men, women, and little children, victims of a system that tortures and imprisons innocent people. We have lost the way, but we shall find it again! And when these changes have swept across this world, it will not need men like me."

Step 4: Get it done in five years, and fade into the background, while neutralizing certain individuals who will no doubt try to take advantage.
>"I tell you, do not despair. The misery that is now upon us is but the passing of greed, the bitterness of men who fear the way of human progress. The hate of men will pass, and dictators die, and the power they took from the people will return to the people. Liberty will never perish."

Step 5: Try to get people to stop using cyberbodies in favor of cloned ones. Get Motoko to stop angsting and embrace her humanity.
>"Let me tell you what I've learned about humans over the last seventeen millennia, Motoko, and why I know that you are as much of one as any of us. Humans are perfect even in their flaws - nothing on the face of the world compares to them. Your love, your joy, your anger, even your hate is to be human. It is to be true to your nature. Do not be ashamed of it. Take pride in who you are.

Never listen to those who tell you that life is suffering and existence is meaningless. That way madness and decay lies. You and I are part of humanity. We have purpose. We are brothers and sisters, you, I, the other five billion on this world that we call home. Forget the petty wars and divisions. The greater struggles lie out there, against a universe that has recognized our greatness and in its fear seeks to destroy us.

We can be united. I've done what I could to show the way forward, and mankind is beginning to recognize it. Free from the lies of false prophets, the jealous falsehoods of dying gods, united in the great mission that lies ahead. The future of mankind that is in the stars. Its unity throughout the skies, to see the wonders of the universe laid out before us all.

There is something special in all of us... even the tachikoma, for they are children of humanity and a part of mankind themselves! The spark of life and joy and happiness - the human soul, pure and incorruptable! Its spirit burns brighter than a billion torches in the dark, banishing the shadows of defeatism and gloom.

Be proud to call yourself human. For whatever form you choose to live it in, whether you choose to call yourself Motoko Kusanagi, Chroma, or the name you were born with - yes, Mai, I know who you truly are - make no mistake, you are human. And from one human to another, I am proud to call you my sister."