The Philosopher's Flight

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In April 1917, Benjamin Franklin’s early contributions to sigilry, learned from Philadelphia women, proved vital during the Revolutionary War. Fast forward over fifty years, an eighteen-year-old boy lives in Guille's Run, Montana, with his mother, Maj. Emmaline Weekes, the county philosopher. She responds to various emergencies while managing a steady sigilry business, assisting with tasks like short-haul flights and crop enhancements. Though eager to help, he is often relegated to mundane duties, such as bookkeeping and cooking. One rainy night, after a long day of emergency calls, his mother returns home exhausted, revealing the news of America’s declaration of war against the German Empire. The boy is eager to enlist, seeing it as a chance for adventure and camaraderie. However, he knows his mother, with her extensive experience in the US Sigilry Corps, will oppose his decision. She dismisses the idea of being called up herself, citing her age, but expresses concern about a potential draft. This conversation sets the stage for a pivotal moment in their relationship, as he grapples with his desire to serve against his mother’s apprehensions about war.