Throughout the series, everyone refers to the former U.S. of A as Deathlands. From Japan to Mexico and now we know the Canadians call it Deathlands too.
True, Trader was/is a living legend. He helped where he saw profit (With a few notable non-profit deals) and dealt justice in lead when someone tried to screw him and his business.
It's obvious that Trader's legacy has mutated (pun intended) into the "Divine Wind" that the companions have been referred to as numerous times. To my memory, it's usually Doc who says it. A wind that sweeps across the land, scouring evil from it's face and leaving that portion of Deathlands just that little bit cleaner.
However, being associated with Trader is a double-edged sword for Ryan and companions. Sure they have been greeted with open arms and food on the table, but more often than not, they are treated with hostility by someone who's cousin's, wife's brother-in-law, either Trader or the companions killed (For "Divine Wind" purposes, lol) and attacked, captured, tortured, etc...
Anyways, I think Deathlands always revolves around the companions because they inherited the legacy of Trader with new twists. Hence, the Mat-Trans, time-trawling, cryogenics, Sec-Hunter droids... Magus.
In writing this, I realize that would be the best finale for Trader. A team-up once again with Ryan and friends for a chase through the Mat-Trans network and a final show-down with Magus. Trader arming an implode gren and taking Magus along for the ride. Sounds fun!
I've been considering writing a DL book for a while now and this could be my chance...
