That strange ship tossed and turned over the boundless ocean. There were no clouds above, only a sky without stars and the watchman's stationary tendrils. The ship is small and I can maneuver it, but it's still big and threatening. The sails bent back like the fins of a giant shark, and the bow sticked out like a jagged spear. We split the tide like a knife splitting meat, carried forward forever by an inevitable current.

Slowly, the gloomy environment changed. Small whirlpools imply the presence of other air currents. I need to hurry. My own current grew narrower, and I caught a glimpse of someone else. Other constructs, other characters. We are all guided on a path that conflicts with our knowledge and, more importantly, our consent. A conflict is coming to an end. The final part is almost in place. However, something went wrong. There is an impossibility in my path.

A wreckage, rotting and fragile, but still very dangerous.

The ship can't change course, I know what to do. No more procrastination, no more obstacles. Being at the end of the road is my birthright, a position that I have twice before been deprived of by the cruelty of fate and chance. This time, I won't be stopped. Those who stand before me expect a battle, and I will give them a war.

The warning of this dream does not fall on the ears of the indifferent. Over the next few days, in preparation for the confrontation with Sullivan, I went through a series of measures and projects. As I expected, Merritt proved herself to be a resourceful woman who slowly made her way into Marquette high society by attending tea parties that I couldn't attend. Her network has blossomed, though the bizarre result is that the two of us have completed mapping the Marquette University Male Sexual Performance Index. It was an eye-opener. Between preparations, necessary work, and training, the night passed quickly.

April 25, 1832

"Miss Wright, please come in, please come in."

The mayor's office was luxuriously decorated, sincerely trying to rival the grandeur and decency of the mayor of the East. The stench of brandy and tobacco almost believed the musk of sweat and coal, though the increasing slag I saw through the window behind him was somewhat a waste of my efforts. Sometimes, I think, this byproduct of coal mining may one day become the highest altitude in the country. The man himself stared at me from his desk, pretending that he knew he was going to have to refuse a request and didn't want to make a fuss. His mask fell off as his second guest followed in my footsteps. We sat down without saying a word, and I introduced my companions.

"Sir, I am Jason Mac Mahon, a field marshal in Pennsylvania. He came to stay with me, and I would like to use this meeting as an opportunity to introduce you two to each other, and hopefully we can end this regrettable relationship before any rumors start spreading. ”

The mayor's face turned pale, and I barely laughed for a minute before Mike Mahon dispelled his fears.

The marshal was a rough man in a shabby coat. His unkempt ribs and mustache had been awkwardly depilated for the occasion, but what really caught the eye was the scars on his body. From his cheeks to his knuckles, the marshal had signs of several fights, and apparently he was still standing. His rough hands clenched a bowler hat, ridiculously clumsy.

"Okay, good evening, Mr. Mayor, sir. As the lady said, it could have been just a misunderstanding, but if not, then ......"

"Say, man, what is this?"

"It's about one of your deputies, Mr. John Graham. Look, I've got an arrest warrant for John Graham from Philadelphia for assault. ”

"Are you saying one of our own officers is wanted?" Unthinkable. ”

"Here's a portrait of him, see if you recognize him."

Mike Mahon took a folded poster from his pocket and handed it to the mayor, whose eyes widened. Yes, it seems that our dear judge refused to hire them for fear of corruption among the locals, and he hired a criminal. Our eyes met, and I blinked.

Later that night.

The man I called hesitantly walked down the empty street, pulling up the collar of his green jacket to block out the continuous drizzle. He walked in fear, his eyes looking left and right in the dark corners, as if expecting an ambush. At this time of night, the warehouse area is empty and desolate. These crumbling buildings can hardly inspire confidence in a respected member of society.

He had a look of relief on his face when he saw me standing in the yellow light like an oasis in the darkness. When he noticed my companion, his comfort was short-lived.

No one is more "looming" than John. His presence is so high that he could also be a geographical feature, someone who can break adult skulls on demand. My guest stammered, and I smiled innocently, but the coward tried to run away. My time is precious. My greeting sounded hollow in an empty alley.

"Mr. Collins, thank you very much for coming. I'm glad to meet you. ”

He stopped five paces away from us.

"Listen, Miss Lert, if it's my obligation, I promise I'll use ......"

I interrupted him with a "come here" gesture. We're talking, not arguing. I can't tolerate disrespect from people like him.

The idiot hesitated for a moment, and in John's peculiar brain, realized that someone was not listening to me, swelling like a puddle of blood from a cracked artery. My bodyguard stood more straight, and from this gesture, you could tell that the violence was about to happen. His massive vertebrae bounced under the pressure of the warm muscles, and he slowly stroked his huge hands. He's such a good boy.

Collins felt the emotion, and he leaned closer and swallowed his saliva with difficulty. I watched with interest as his Adam's apple bobbed up and down. He smells seductive, but also weak. I was full yesterday from a noisy customer, and now there's no need to indulge myself. Let's get to an end to this.

"Collins. I will allow you to extend until I collect your debt. It's even interest-free. In return, you're going to do something for me. Trust me, it's good for you......"

April 26th.

Tonight, the crowd at the back of the town hall was bustling, and the divide between the two camps couldn't be more obvious to anyone with even the slightest bit of social demeanor. The most influential members of Marquette sat in the comfortable leather chairs of the first circle, while others, myself included, hovered over the edges, and while still present, less influential. The air was filled with pale blue cigar smoke, the atmosphere was tense, and many of the bottles were empty. Judge Sullivan sat across from me, surrounded by a bunch of Marquard's most fanatical self-righteous idiots. I am pleased to note that this figure is lower than it was a week ago, a clear sign that the recent scandal has tarnished his previous image of innocence. Under the pretext of avoiding the influence of corruption, the judge did not hire locals, as a result one of his deputies was wanted! Seriously, this man is shameless, he likes criminal outsiders to our brave local lads. And the timing couldn't be worse! Just the day before the big meeting, a marshal dragged his handcuffed subordinates across the street for everyone to see. He was so unlucky.

Our eyes met, and I blinked. What's wrong? I am an innocent soul.

"The meeting is open. The Honourable Mayor made a statement. ”

"Thank you, thank you. Gentlemen, we have a lot to discuss today. Without further ado, I will now begin our first matter, the injunction filed by Judge Sullivan. As you know, it is our responsibility and burden to oversee our community and guide it on the right path. While minorities equally deserve our kind counsel, we still have the right to protect our wives and children from any depravity they may be exposed to. Beginning May 1, people of color and Wanderers will no longer be welcome in our community. Our city is safe. ”

This statement was greeted with polite applause, but I did not participate. Sullivan stared at me like an eagle, waiting for me to act. This only shows that he lacks understanding. I've never spoken in public for the simple reason that I'm a woman, and that's enough for some people to fire me. I love it when the puppets dance for me and get the center of attention. This is a more expedient measure.

"That being said, our country is still a land of opportunities, and we must discover from within, leaving the opportunities offered to us to others to improve our destiny. Everyone should have the right to freedom and the pursuit of happiness, regardless of their nature. It is now my great pleasure to allow Mr. Collins to make his proposal. For newcomers, Mr. Collins is the owner of Collins Construction and has been a pillar of our community for more than a decade. ”

More polite applause. Collins stood up and dusted off his imagination from his elegant garment. He cleared his throat and began to speak in the smooth voice of a skilled salesman.

"Good evening, gentlemen. It is an honour for me to address you today. I've been a part of this community for 13 years. I have witnessed its growth, struggle, and prosperity. We have endured years of abundance and years of famine, and now we have finally taken the first steps towards becoming a true city, comparable to the one that our ancestors founded in their infancy in this country. Like all entities, we will face growing pains, but as leaders of Marquette University, it is our sacred duty to manage them to the best of our ability, so God bless us. ”

A few Amen echoed around us. I am proud of that touching religious moment. Do you hear that, God? Your abandoned daughter still pays homage to you through her servants. I mean, deputies.

"Population growth needs to be properly managed. For the first time in our history, we must plan our growth with vision and purpose, not organically. That is why I suggest that we open up a new area for other races, so that they can also fight for wealth among their fellow citizens. It's a new district for them, unique and with the same amenities. ”

At the mention of such an ambitious project, the room was filled with anxious whispers, and it didn't take long for another well-known person to speak out against it.

"Who do you propose to pay for all this?" A loud voice asked. The newcomer twisted his bushy beard, clearly skeptical. That's my good friend Andrews, the main supplier of beef and poultry for all my business.

"Thank you for your question, I won't waste the precious time of the conference without a workable plan. A group of concerned citizens and I bought the land around Smith's home, and we gave them generous gifts. We will fund the construction of the entire new district, all for the benefit of the university. The only thing we need is your blessing before we can start construction and this new area can be exempt from the ban. ”

A wave of nods of approval spread through the conference. Because it solves their problems without costing them a penny, most of them will be inclined to agree. I still tested the water beforehand. You never know, mortal. They will be fascinated by the most harmless things. Like cutting.

"One more thing. I'm sure many of you work with the citizens and freedmen of Southern Kentucky. Some of them may even have met Mr. Bennings, who was married to a black woman. Now, I don't want to discuss his fetishes, but should I tell him that his spouse is not welcome when he comes to town? A man of status and wealth like him? What about other travelers and freedmen? Do they have to camp outside the city? Should we turn down our own business because of a lack of flexibility?"

A series of "no" sounds resounded throughout the room. Sullivan's face turned red because he knew how things were going to turn out. If he says more, he'll be foaming at the mouth.

"This measure is to prevent bad actors from entering, not to endanger our livelihoods. That's why I suggest that we allow foreign tourists to stay in a hostel so that they can stay while they are doing business. I think D

EAM is the most convenient location. ”

A few members looked over to me, mostly those who hadn't been warned. Sullivan frowned angrily. He raised his hand to indicate that he wanted to intervene. Collins ignored him.

"With this measure, we will be ready to face with confidence the consequences of its implementation......"

The presentation continued, with more details and necessary embellishments. I adjusted my expression to a polite attention, pretending not to notice the red-faced judge. Before voting, he was given his time.

"Gentlemen. If the law doesn't apply to everyone, is it still the law?"

Andrews coughed loudly, and several angry whispers echoed behind him. The word "hypocrite" may have already been said. Sullivan was even more upset, but he didn't relent. He gushed about the importance of 10 minutes of civic duty and strict enforcement of the rules. “Fiat Justicia,

uat caelum!”’ Etcetera. I watched him repeat his words over and over again, and even his staunchest supporters didn't pay attention to him, and I thought it was funny. Is this what a political catastrophe looks like? How could he not see it? This is not how the game is played. In a meeting, you can't get people on your side. All relevant negotiations took place behind closed doors in the smoky reception room. A real politician will understand this, what am I talking about, a real politician will see it a mile away and kill it before it is submitted. The game is over.

Soon, the ballots were cast. The mayor personally counted the votes and came up with the final result.

The motion was adopted by seventeen votes in favour and five against.

For Sullivan, it was the last straw. He stood up angrily and walked to the center of the room under a few disapproving glances.

"I've had enough!"

"Judge Sullivan, you have no say, please sit down."

The mayor's warnings went unheeded. The judge was so angry that he didn't listen. He began his speech in the emphatic tone of a Baptist pastor, his voice becoming shrill and crescendo.

"Don't you understand?" This is a divine test for you. God has given you a chance to repent and renounce your sinful deeds and regain His grace. For a long time, the city has glorified sin and evil, with dissolute women selling their bodies with the tacit approval of all. No, I said, no. Pray and reconsider. ”

I cowered like a poor, slandered woman. Oh, it's perfect. He is ruining what little credibility the recent scandal has left him, rather than waiting for the moment. What a glorious declaration. Yes, dear judge, please insult you all again.

"Sir, I think you should sit down now," one of his supporters added pointedly.

Sullivan's expression turned dejected, but instead of answering, he stamped away with the disapproving gazes of all the attendees. Perfect, perfect. My victory was complete, and I didn't need to move my muscles or whisper a word. Sinned, I wish you could see this. You'd say it's a play for kids, but it's still a masterpiece.

I hid a sad look behind a fan, and in the chaos that followed, I received quite a few sympathetic comments. Even those who oppose me are generally shocked when their defenders of justice get up and leave after leaving the last stain on their reputation. Ah, if only he could banish himself from contempt, I would catch up with him and eat him! But, alas, it was too risky to do so. The disappearance of celebrities is always hard to accept.

After a while, it calmed down and the meeting continued. The next decree, which is directly related to me, was proposed by the mayor, and I support it.

"Rumor has it that indigenous tribes, under the command of a villain named Black Hawk, are taking possession of lands that were legally ceded to us under the Treaty of St. Louis. If they attack, we must be able to defend ourselves. Therefore, I propose to create a militia that will allow us to withstand all dangers......"

Several questions then arose, mainly about funding, but most of those present agreed that the prospect of poor whites armed was slightly less dire than that of the Indian invaders, and the Marquette militia was formally formed. Its new leader was also nominated, a veteran of a previous war named Wallace who loved busty blondes and poker. Just as planned. As for how they will be armed, I am currently a shareholder in a Massachusetts arms manufacturer, and I am sure that they will make a reasonable offer. Thank you, Isaac.

The meeting was over, and by the time I left, there was already a group of people gathered to discuss what to do with poor Sullivan. It seems that the air in the countryside is not for him. Probably coal in the air. I went back to the Dream Bar with John and tried not to whistle.

Half an hour later, the meeting room of dreams.

"So I think it's a complete success. Now we just need to secure an armory and gunpowder reserve for quick access, and I'll make sure Wallace is under control. Merritt, I'm counting on you to find the armory, look in the warehouse area. ”

"That's right."

The mage left with a pile of papers, and Nami held a serrated knife and twisted her fingers deftly like acrobatics. I could tell she had something on her mind.

"Really?"

"I don't think tonight was a complete success."

"Why not?"

"Because after four days, I will be banned from walking on the streets of this city. It's inconvenient, don't you think?"

I was surprised and a little worried. Was she offended?

"I thought you wouldn't bother with this. Should I oppose this measure?"

"It's a good thing that you're pragmatic Ariana, but your sensitivity is already declining. How many of your followers have been affected?"

"Hmm. Oscar, King, Russell, Crick Brothers, ......"

"There were also two maids and a kitchen worker. Do you think they thought it was a complete success? I'm skeptical. You did what you thought was best. I believe that the new district you have planned will not be as poor as it is without you, and it will increase your power and control over the place. You are not the cause of what you are suffering, and they will be resentful, and you must not forget. ”

I silently considered her words. In fact, I didn't take the victim into account. I've never done this before, and I should do it this time. I called Nami my friend and didn't even think about her comfort.

"Are you mad at me?"

"No, Ariana, it's not new to me. I'm already rusty with rooftop travel anyway. I just wanted to remind you to be careful in front of humans. They are always emotional, and forgetting this can hurt your interests. ”

"Oh. All right. ”

"Don't make this face so sweet, I won't bite. Unless you want me to do it, maybe you need a little punishment......"

"N-stand back!"

Intolerable woman.