In the parliament, noises can be heard—debates about who will succeed the patriarch, for the news has just broken: the patriarch is dead. The Imperial City, also known as Washington City, is in mourning. During the discussion, the idea of appointing his son is raised, since the Confederate States of America is a monarchy. The son of the deceased patriarch, too unpredictable and above all immature, is the subject of great controversy. But who is to replace the patriarch?
"My dear friends, the situation is grave, for our patriarch is dead. But is Dimitrius worthy of the succession? We all know he is not. That is why I propose that his grandson, Damien, ascend to the throne."
"A child? What is the difference between Dimitrius and Damien?"
"I believe our compatriot's idea is not a bad one, for though he is still a child, he is already very mature for his age. In five years, he will have reached fifteen, and for the management of the Empire, the Senate could take charge."
"That is an excellent idea."
"All in favor?"
Most raised their hands, but just as the Keeper of the Seals was about to strike with his gavel to confirm the parliament's majority decision—
"I object."
"Who is that?"
"My name is Wang Middlesbrough, son of Lee Fang and Sarah Middlesbrough. According to the laws, in the event of the patriarch's premature death, all members must be present for the decision to be unanimous. Ours is not a democracy like the rebellious Western nations; we must reach a common decision."
Wang produced the Middlesbrough family necklace.
"I object by the authority granted to me by the title of Permanent Councillor. The Middlesbrough family calls for a referendum. The law permits it. The people shall decide on their new patriarch, in accordance with the laws relating to the premature death of a patriarch."
"To object, Lord Middlesbrough, the law stipulates that for a referendum or a refusal of the majority decision, at least two must oppose it. But you are alone."
"I object as well. I, having taken my cousin's place according to the custom of blood ties and the note left by my predecessor—I, Governor Lord Richard, also object."
The room, in total confusion, found itself obliged to respect the laws. The Keeper of the Seals, charged with enforcing the decisions made, struck with his gavel and declared:
"According to the laws in force and according to our customs, the decision retained is a referendum on the choice of our new patriarch. The people shall decide. The session is adjourned."
Wang and Richard sighed, but knew the battle was not won, for they had to convince the population to choose Dimitrius, the patriarch's son, known for his champagne-soaked parties and female companions. Wang and Richard went to see him.
"Your situation is tense, Your Highness."
"Who, me? Dimitrius? Become patriarch? No, I think if my father heard this, he would rise from his grave. I have always known I was not destined for such a position, and I have accepted it. Take someone else."
"They want to place Damien."
"And so? Let them."
"Dimitrius, that child is not who you think he is."
"Your brother's death was staged to remove him from power, and Damien is not your father's true grandson."
"What do you mean?"
"Damien is a Drifter."
"You're joking."
"Worse... he is their leader."
"Now, Lord Middlesbrough, I think you have indulged a bit too much in hallucinogenic mushrooms."
"Dimitrius, do you think all these deaths are mere coincidence? Your mother, your elder brother, and now your father—your entire family, one after the other. It is a very well-orchestrated plot. The Drifters' allies are embedded and are pushing for their leader to take power, and you are letting them do it without a fight."
Dimitrius remained calm for a moment, then decided to accept the challenge. For nearly a month, each in his city campaigned for either the grandson or Dimitrius. But to general surprise, Dimitrius fell in love with Elva during various meetings with Wang and his team, and he took her as his wife. And to everyone's astonishment, Dimitrius became the new patriarch of the Confederate States of America.