Envoy (Wild Cards)

The Envoy (David Harstein) is a fictional character from the Wild Cards anthology series, first appearing in the story "Witness" by Walter Jon Williams in the first book of the series, "Wild Cards".

Character background

David Harstien is an Ace, one of those gifted with amazing powers by the Wild Card virus. He emits pheromones which make anyone feel like he is their best friend, causing whoever is near him to become completely agreeable--as long as he's in the same room. The effects quickly wear off, however, leaving his victims fully aware of their often uncharacteristic actions.

In 1946 he became a behind-the-scenes member of the "Exotics for Democracy", who would later become publicly known as the Four Aces. The group enjoyed some public success in capturing Nazi war criminals, while behind the scenes Envoy was secretly attending international summits and making everyone get along just long enough to sign peace treaties; but once his power wore off, many nations reneged on their agreements. This caused the Four Aces to come to the unfortunate attention of HUAC, the House Un-American Activities Committee, who were looking for scapegoats.

At first, when he was put on the stand Harstein merely bided his time, waiting for his pheromones to permeate the enormous room. After his powers began to take effect, even the most prejudiced Committee member was referring to Harstein as "America's little Hebe friend". But, again, once the air was cleared the Committee's hostility returned, and David was called back to testify in a sealed booth, rendering his ability useless. He was found guilty of contempt of Congress and jailed.

After his release, David Harstein disappeared. It is rumored that he went to Israel for several years. He later returned to America under an assumed name and started a moderately successful career as a stage actor named Josh Davidson.

It is likely, given the propensity for 'Wild Cards' creators to reference popular music, that the character's name was taken from the song and album of the same name by singer/songwriter, Warren Zevon. In fact, the character as he appears in the series, bears a great resemblance to the unnamed character in the Zevon song.