Blackstone Code-Chapter 286:

The man stood up, approached Lynch, and extended his hand. "I'm her father. You can call me Jackson," he said, shooting a glance at the other man. "And that's my brother, Jefferson."

As they shook hands, Jackson elaborated on their names. "I know our names sound a bit..." He shrugged. "But we're real brothers."

During an era of individualism, parents rarely gave siblings names with similar pronunciations. Uniqueness was the essence of the Federation's spirit of freedom—each person was distinct. Similar-sounding names often blurred individuality, especially among siblings.

Jefferson, appearing more refined, also shook hands with Lynch, reintroducing himself as though Jackson hadn't just done so.

He even proudly mentioned his profession as a priest. In the Baylor Federation, where belief in God was deeply ingrained, priests enjoyed considerable reverence and even political influence, such as "parish votes."

"Parish votes" was a uniquely Federation concept. Every city had its churches, and psychological "parishes" naturally formed around these religious hubs, with priests at their core.

In elections, the votes of churchgoers became a powerful force. Securing the favor of a church could sway significant portions of the electorate. However, winning over a devout priest was no easy task—they were unwavering in their faith and principles, making their endorsements rare and hard-earned.

That said, persuading God was often simpler—just a check or some promises, and divine favor could be assured.

After shaking hands, Lynch found a seat and awaited dinner.

In the meantime, they chatted about recent policy changes in the Federation. This was a favored topic among men—criticizing new policies to showcase their supposed superiority over the President and his administration.

Their discussion soon turned to the unplanned military downsizing this year. Many returning veterans had no place to go and wandered the streets like vagrants, introducing instability to an otherwise orderly society.

These veterans, skilled in weapons, tactics, and teamwork, posed a significant threat if they joined gangs or turned to crime. It would be both the greatest and most tragic irony in history.

Indeed, some gangs had already begun recruiting these veterans as enforcers. While some veterans resisted due to moral restraint, others succumbed.

Jackson shared insights unknown to Lynch. "Many believe continuous military reductions signal peace, but few realize the President just signed a new order. This year's military budget is double last year's, and plans for equipment upgrades are already underway."

After six years of budget cuts and no major updates, this was the first increase in military spending and modernization.

No wonder the Federal Industrial Index had risen recently. Some analysts attributed it to the benefits of globalization, but it was simply heavyweight stocks driving the overall index upward.

Public reactions to the order were muted—it was expected. The Progressive Party, unlike the Conservatives who vowed to curb military influence, heralded good times for the armed forces.

Still, pairing this with troop reductions seemed paradoxical.

Soon, Mrs. Tracey's cook announced dinner. The family, along with their guest Lynch, sat at the dining table. Lynch had brought a gift—a bottle of wine, already opened and placed on the table.

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Their conversation shifted from serious political discussions to lighter topics, such as newly released films and celebrity news.

After dinner, Lynch and Mrs. Tracey retreated to her study. Sitting across the desk from one another, she poured him a cup of herbal tea. "I need your help, Lynch..."

"The people in the Athletes' Association are no good and hard to deal with. Alone, we're too weak. We need to unite—just as I'll support your ideas, will you support me?"

Lynch sipped his tea thoughtfully before replying, "Of course, Mrs. Tracey, but I must clarify—only if it doesn't conflict with my personal interests. I hope you understand."

Mrs. Tracey nodded, relieved but also sensing something inexplicable.

Lynch's candid prioritization of self-interest seemed incongruent with his age. Such pragmatic selfishness was more typical of older men like Jackson. Young people often adhered to societal expectations, even at personal cost—a naivety that could be exploited.

But Lynch was different.

The atmosphere grew more relaxed as Mrs. Tracey outlined her vision: she wanted the Women's Rights Protection Association to dominate female professional sports.

Her aim resembled that of the Workers' Union—establishing indispensability by controlling broadcasting rights and wielding influence over the industry.

"Mrs. Tracey, have you considered the budget needed for this endeavor?" Lynch asked after indulging her for a while.

Throughout their discussion, she had focused on grand ambitions without addressing practicalities like funding.

Creating industry standards and establishing a new field required significant investment—something the Women's Rights Protection Association severely lacked compared to the wealthy Athletes' Association. Please vote for this novel at https://www.novelupdates.com/series/blackstone-code/There are advance chapters available nowAccess will be granted 24 hours after the donationTier 1: 7 Advance chapters Link

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