Chapter 4: The Politburo Test
The Kremlin's meeting room was colder than ever, the long table gleaming under the dim fluorescent lights. Around it sat the Soviet Union's most powerful—and most stubborn—officials. The air was thick with suspicion and the faint scent of stale tobacco.
General Secretary Gorbachev, still cautious but curious, sat at the head of the table. Today, I would face the ultimate test: proving my vision to those who had spent decades resisting change.
"Mission update: Survive the first Politburo confrontation. Gain majority support. Unlock new system abilities."
I entered, calm and composed. Volkov, Petrov, and Makarova gave subtle nods, their loyalty slowly solidifying. The others, however, eyed me with skepticism, if not outright hostility.
"Host, predictive probability: 65% success if you combine diplomacy and data presentation," the system whispered.
I began, "Comrades, I come not to overthrow tradition but to strengthen it. Our nation faces stagnation, inefficiency, and global challenges. If we do not act now, we risk falling irreversibly behind."
Some officials scoffed. I let the system highlight vulnerabilities: "Target ideological rigidity and fear of change. Use historical precedents to validate proposals."
I presented a detailed report of agricultural reforms, military upgrades, and technological projects. I emphasized respect for Soviet ideology while showing that modernization was necessary for survival.
Petrov leaned back, skeptical. "And you expect us to implement these changes without disrupting the Party?"
I smiled faintly. "Not without care, Comrade Petrov. These programs are gradual, tested in pilot regions, and overseen by trusted Party members. We advance the USSR without betraying our principles."
Murmurs filled the room. Slowly, some nodded. Gorbachev leaned forward, intrigued.
"Mission success: Majority support gained. Leadership upgraded to Level 3. Strategy module unlocked: Political Manipulation."
The system added a note: "Host, rival factions may attempt subterfuge. Use influence and subtle economic reforms to maintain control."
By the end of the session, I had survived the first test. The Politburo now saw me not just as a reformer but as a leader capable of navigating their treacherous world.