Blackstone Code-Chapter 520: Competing to Contribute to the Federation

“I?” Ferrell remained focused on driving. He glanced at the car behind them; the driver there was someone who had come out with Lynch—likely one of Lynch’s bodyguards.
For a moment, he felt dazed. It seemed like only recently they had met for the first time, when Lynch put a five-thousand-Sol check on the table seeking solutions.
In a flash, Lynch had developed to the point of needing bodyguards?
Snapping back to reality, Ferrell said, “It’s going alright. Everyone knows I’m just…” He pursed his lips with a helpless smile and shook his head. “Just a transitional figure. I have no right to complain—instead, I should thank you, the governor, and the mayor for their support.”
If all went as expected, Landon—the current mayor of Sabin City—would resign after the state election and recommend Ferrell as his successor.
With Landon’s endorsement, the governor’s backing, and Lynch’s approval, Ferrell’s election as mayor faced almost no opposition. But he wouldn’t hold the position long.
Landon had clashed somewhat with the governor, who wanted to appoint his brother as mayor, but Landon refused, using his influence to secure party support instead.
This caused some tension between the two, which was now easing somewhat thanks to Lynch’s involvement. Landon was willing to step down as mayor in exchange for a new position as a congressional representative.
As part of the deal, Ferrell, Landon’s aide and secretary, would serve as acting mayor of Sabin City for two years.
After two years, Ferrell would resign, citing his inability to fully manage a city, and recommend a state senator to replace him. The state legislature would then hold hearings to approve the replacement, who would become the new mayor and prepare for the next mayoral election.
This arrangement had nothing to do with Ferrell’s identity. His relationship with the governor was ordinary, and it was not because he was another nephew of Edwin that unfair decisions were made.
Is it absurd to think being related to the governor disqualifies one from serving the federation?
Ridiculous.
This setup satisfied everyone’s needs and ensured a smooth transition to a new mayor. Ferrell would gain two years of experience in office, positioning him for party promotion. If he could secure support from capitalists like Lynch for the next election, he might truly become a mayor and enter the political stage.
The process seemed simple but involved many intertwined interests. For example, when the state senator—rumored to be the governor’s brother—became mayor, his senate seat would open up.
Everyone knew the governor sought more terms. A senate seat would secure an ally.
Don’t underestimate state senators. Under the federation’s semi-autonomous state system, state legislatures are not very different from Congress. They can propose, review, and pass local laws, though their influence is limited to their own and neighboring regions.
From a practical standpoint, it wasn’t bad.
Behind the scenes, many unseen interest exchanges occurred. The public only saw one mayor resign and another take over.
“That’s not bad. At least I don’t have to campaign!” Ferrell smiled. He wasn’t truly afraid of elections; a glance at the clean streets around explained his confidence.
The unprecedented economic downturn had turned
mayor
into a high-risk frontline political job. It wasn’t about whether a politician had the right skills anymore—the question was who could handle it.
One would fall after another. This was why the conservative party withdrew completely. The previous president left a mess they couldn’t clean up. They chose to retreat strategically.
When people realized the progressive party was no better, they’d step forward again. By then, the economy would be improving, and people might want to try a new ruling party.
At that time, they could bask in public approval. But now was not that time.
No one was foolish enough to take on a mess and prove themselves as bad as their predecessor, becoming a laughingstock. Especially with Landon’s nomination, the governor’s support, and backing from businessmen like Lynch. Anyone challenging Ferrell would be foolish.
Of course, there are always those who run just for the race. The federation is highly free, and fairness is valued.
“Approaching that position makes me uneasy. You know, decisions used to be made by someone else, not me. Now I have to face the consequences—good or bad—and that’s a heavy burden,” Ferrell said, slowly turning the steering wheel while keeping an eye on the road and rear vehicles.
“Sometimes I want to back down for a moment, but I can’t.”
Ferrell was under immense pressure. Though conditions improved, unemployment remained high. Aid stations distributing food vouchers were crowded with ordinary citizens struggling to survive.
Landon had dared to oppose the governor’s private
suggestions
to run for mayor—and won. His departure wasn’t surrender but likely a recognition of the difficulty.
If things went well, everyone would be happy. But more likely, if results fell short, he’d be ousted in disgrace. So he withdrew in time and preserved his victory.
Though the mayor outranks a congressional representative in practical power, the latter holds greater social influence and political capital.
The mayor could step down, but Ferrell had no choice but to push forward.
Their conversation continued as the car slowly stopped outside city hall. Landon was indeed leaving, but before he officially stepped down, he was still mayor. Lynch was expected to visit him first.
“Congratulations…”
The mayor greeted Lynch warmly, shaking his hand. “I knew choosing you was right. In just over a year, the club took a championship. They even held a small celebration yesterday—it was lively. You can watch the replay on the news; they covered it.”
As they spoke, they sat on the sofa. “Sports are very effective in boosting public morale. At least people don’t look as worn down. You did well. Yesterday, I discussed encouraging more investment in sports with Ferrell.”
Ferrell, serving drinks, nodded and placed two glasses before them. Landon gestured to a nearby sofa. “You should sit too.”
Though Ferrell had no place in such formal settings, since he would soon replace Landon, he deserved respect.
No one knew how things would develop. Respecting Ferrell was necessary, both for their past cooperation and because he was still young.
After some polite talk, Lynch shifted to Landon’s future. “I heard your next position has been decided?”
The topic was awkward. Previously, the governor couldn’t guarantee Landon a congressional seat and might have had him remain in the state senate.
But then a party congressman suddenly fell ill.
The elderly man had dedicated his life to the federation. At 75, he was still working hard.
Doctors said he couldn’t continue. Though saddened, this opened a new opportunity.
The governor quickly mobilized support for Landon to be nominated by the congressman as his successor.
The process was complex. After resigning, Landon would work as the congressman’s assistant for a month or two to learn the job.
Then the congressman would announce his incapacity. After at least two rounds of voting in the state legislature, they’d select Landon as successor.
If Landon passed two public hearings by the congressional selection committee without majority opposition, he would become a member of Congress, representing another state and serving the people.
This involved a political exchange between the governor and another state, making it far from simple.
Now Landon seemed to have accepted it. At his age, it was unlikely the governor would support him to stay. Rather than wasting time clinging to a little power here, he preferred to serve the federation in Congress.
At least, that would give him a pleasant retirement, free from financial worries.