Chapter 135: On the Importance of Unity in the Face of Difficulty

In the Baylor Federation, officially, the highest authority is the Chief Judge of the City Court, representing law and justice.

Next are the speakers of the two state houses, followed by the legislators. They can fight for policy support or enact local laws for a city on the state’s political stage.

The mayor ranks after them. Officially, the mayor’s power is limited to managing the city’s development, serving as an elected official hired by the citizens to manage their affairs.

Proud citizens don’t even call him mayor at times—they say he’s just the city’s manager.

But the official line is unreliable. Like the conservative president who promised healthcare and education reforms before taking office—people hope for it, but it’s often just empty words.

In reality, the mayor wields the greatest power in a city. Though elected, he controls every aspect of city life. Politicians say power is temporarily entrusted to the mayor to maintain public face and keep citizens feeling involved and honored, so they continue supporting him.

Touching, but hollow.

When an undisputed figure praises someone publicly, it’s never a casual remark—it carries political weight.

People say not to overinterpret politicians, but politicians always speak in ways that demand interpretation.

Under the public gaze, Lynch’s expression grew humbler and friendlier.

A handsome young man naturally appeals to people. His shy smile showed no hint of aggression—only warmth.

Successful people enjoy mentoring juniors. Everyone has an instinct to teach, and it surfaces when they meet a promising student.

Others chimed in to praise Lynch’s recent achievements. Many knew him from newspapers or friends; finding something to say was easy.

They smiled genuinely at the mayor or Lynch, their sincerity almost moving.

The governor’s aide, a key figure at the meeting, looked surprised at Lynch and then at the mayor, before patting Lynch’s arm. “I thought your Lynch would be middle-aged!”

This wasn’t truly surprise at Lynch’s youth but a message that Lynch was favored by him and the governor.

“He’s accomplished so much at such a young age—truly remarkable. The governor and I both like him!” That was the real meaning.

If reversed, it could mean trouble—like I thought you’d be younger, implying youth equals foolishness.

Lynch bowed slightly, showing humility and respect.

The aide then spoke about the secondhand goods auction Lynch was organizing. “I’ve heard of it, and we’ve been watching your reports.”

He paused, giving Lynch and others time to process, then continued, “The governor is very interested in your constructive ideas, and your recent auctions have been well organized. I hear the turnover is impressive?”

“Yes,” Lynch nodded. No one had introduced themselves by name, so Lynch just bowed his head.

“That’s excellent!” The aide half-grasped Lynch’s arm, then looked at the others. “I don’t know if you realize, but this is a great idea.”

“Under our Iron Wall President, the federation’s situation has clearly encountered problems. The hardship isn’t just ours—society as a whole is facing difficult times.”

“Now is the time to set aside differences, look ahead, and unite to overcome this crisis.”

He withdrew his hand as Lynch stepped aside. The aide continued.

“Mr. Lynch has found a new method with surprising insight, easing the public’s financial burden while pursuing his own interests.”

“Even the governor praises him, believing more people like Lynch should emerge to help us and the people through this hardship, rather than exploit them.”

He raised a finger—not the middle one. “Gentlemen, understand this: hardships affect not only ordinary people but us as well.”

“Only unity can help us overcome difficulties…”

Among the crowd, Lynch held his wine glass, watching the mayor and the aide speak lofty words to the attendees. He was beginning to understand.

It related to what Ferrell mentioned about the Liston Group and its CEO’s attitude. Ferrell once casually mentioned tension between CEO Neo and the mayor.

Later, Lynch found news about the Liston Group, which spans three cities but is headquartered in Sabin. They make most revenue from clothing and food, owning over 100 clothing brands and many fast-food chains nationwide, contributing heavily to Sabin’s taxes.

Yet they’ve been cozying up to the Conservative Party. After the conflict between Neo and the mayor escalated, the mayor reported it to the Progressive Party leadership, who sided with the mayor, blaming Liston’s greed.

To protect the mayor’s authority and warn Neo, the governor’s aide suddenly visited Sabin and used Lynch’s secondhand auction as an example to stress the need for unity.

It was a warning to Liston: if they don’t unite soon, the one discarded won’t be the mayor but Liston.

Lynch smiled happily, sipping wine. He knew he’d had a bit too much—his head spun slightly—but he enjoyed it.

He loved feeling part of the game. Everyone around was a player. He wasn’t famous yet, but he believed he’d make it to the finals, competing on the grandest stage with top politicians and capitalists. That would be exciting.

Playing solo is dull; only this kind of struggle makes life flavorful and colorful.

In the game that Lynch started, he was no longer visible. His current status, wealth, and rank weren’t enough to enter this level of conflict. But he had no fear of being targeted—he’d earned the governor’s favor.

At least for now, no one would attack him.

As Lynch was gradually pushed to the circle’s edge, someone with a wine glass approached. “I’m interested in your businesses. May I ask if you accept investments?”

Nearby, others’ attention shifted back to Lynch and his guest. Lynch glanced at the man and surprisingly nodded.

Everyone expected him to refuse—after all, a profitable business is best kept to oneself, especially by someone young with youthful pride.

But Lynch’s nod stirred excitement. A business praised by the governor wasn’t just about making money—it held political value.

Lynch found these people amusing. He’d been wondering how to quickly raise funds to keep his ventures afloat, and now money was offered unsolicited.

He understood their motives, but it didn’t conflict with his goals.

He had no plans to leverage the governor’s influence. He just wanted to make money.

More money.