CHAPTER TEN- THE MIDNIGHT GATHERING
Sunday 24th August, 1710- COLONY OF WILLOW IN FRENCH AMERICA
(12:34 AM)
In the quiet hours of the early morning, under the soft glow of the moon, the French Colony of Willow lay in peaceful slumber. Nathan Noir, having left Father Francis’ office after their conversation, found a moment of solitude to reflect on the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead in the colony. The diversity of cultures and beliefs among the residents posed a challenge to the cooperation that governed the colony’s day-to-day activities.
As Nathan gazed at the moonlit landscape, he knew that the journey of building a thriving community in this new land was far from over. The complexities of managing different cultural practices required patience, understanding and diplomacy.
With the stars overhead as witnesses, Nathan Noir, the explorer who had ventured into the unknown had become steward of Willow’s future on behalf of his distant cousin King Louis the 14th of France, silently contemplated the path ahead, determined to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lay ahead in the colony’s ongoing journey. As Nathan Noir stood in the moonlit night, contemplating the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead in the French Colony of Willow, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of responsibility weighing on his shoulders. The events of the day had reminded him of the delicate balance he needed to maintain to ensure the uneasy peace that held the residents of the colony.
The soft breeze rustled the leaves of the Willow trees, and the gentle murmur of the stream nearby provided a soothing background to his thoughts. He knew that his role as a bridge between cultures was crucial in this evolving community.
Nathan Noir’s mind drifted back to the Native Americans and their reverence for ‘Kaitonchukwu’, the deity associated with the Willow trees. He was determined to learn more about this belief and find a way to integrate it into the fabric of the colony without causing discord. Before going to investigate the mystery of Kaitonchukwu, Nathan went to sit on the edges of New Salem’s pier. He had always found the view of the Mexican Gulf and beyond to be calming. As an explorer to first discover these lands, Nathan could not help but look to the stars in the night sky and wonder how far the colony of New Salem had come these past two decades, he had only been 21 years old at the time of Willow’s discovery. And now at the age of 49, he was helping the French colonize anything they could in the Americas.
“Excuse me sir, are you Nathan Noir”, a man’s voice asked, his accent reminiscent of the Levant, where the Galilee meets the ancient lands of Israel. Nathan Noir turned to face the stranger, his brow furrowing slightly as he assessed the man standing before him. The newcomer had a weathered face, with lines etched deep from a life of hardship and adventure. His dark brown eyes held a glimmer of curiosity and urgency.
“Yes, I am Nathan Noir”, Nathan replied with a voice carrying a warmth that contrasted with the cool night air, “And you are?”. The man extended a calloused hand, revealing a sense of determination that belied his appearance. “I am Yosef Kanan”, Yosef said with words tinged with the musical lilt of the Galilee, “I’ve traveled a great distance to find you”.
Nathan shook Yosef’s hand firmly, noting the firm grip that spoke of a life accustomed to hard work. “What brings you to New Salem, Mr. Kanan?”, Nathan asked. Yosef’s gaze shifted toward the distant horizon, where the Gulf of Mexico stretched out like a vast unknown. “I’ve heard tales of your endeavors, Mr. Noir. Your reputation as an explorer and navigator precedes you. I’ve come because I am interested in becoming a resident of your colony, New Salem. I am a merchant by profession with some skills in carpentry”, Yosef replied.
Nathan’s curiosity deepened. He motioned for Yosef to join him on the pier, where they could continue their conversation overlooking the tranquil waters. The idea of a new resident with skills in carpentry and a background in merchant trade held promise for the growing colony. New Salem needed skilled individuals like Yosef to expand and thrive. “I see”, Nathan replied with a thoughtful nod, “We welcome individuals with your talents and determination. Tell me, Mr. Kanan, what has drawn you to New Salem? What do you seek to achieve here?”.
Yosef’s gaze returned to Nathan’s, and a hint of a smile touched his weathered face. “In my travels, I have heard whispers of the opportunities this land presents, and I seek a new beginning, a place where I can build a better future for myself and my family. And if my skills can be of service to this colony, then all the better”, Yosef replied. Nathan Noir couldn’t help but be impressed by Yosef’s determination and sincerity. The challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for New Salem required individuals like him— those willing to contribute their skills and dreams to the thriving community.
“Mr. Kanan”, Nathan began, “I believe you may find a new home and a bright future here in New Salem. Our colony prides itself in hard work and community, and judging from your words I think you fit the bill. When does your family arrive?”. “They arrive in four years’ time from the Ottoman Empire, from the area that is known as Jerusalem”, Yosef replied enthusiastically. “My…my Mr. Kanan, an Ottoman Trader in our humble colony, I’m eager to learn what I can from you. Is this your first time in the Americas?”, Nathan replied with equal enthusiasm.
“No, Mr. Noir”, Yosef answered, “I’ve actually been here for three years doing missionary work in the Spanish Province of Tejas and the Territory of New England, with some stops in-between. I am a trader and carpenter by profession but my true calling has always been that of preaching God’s word. I’m not a fully ordained priest or bishop, just a helper of the Lord. I’ve only been in New Salem for three days but I sent Father Francis Gonzales a letter one week before my arrival to expect me. I will be assisting with church services in New Salem, but my shop and carpentry will open for any services New Salem will need”. “Thank you Yosef, your skills will be much appreciated here”, Nathan replied.
“And by the way I didn’t mean to pry, but I overhead Baptiste having an argument with Morris and Kai by the stables, some of other Chitimacha tribesmen are their so it must be serious. I would hurry if I was you”, Yosef said. “Thank you again Yosef. I’ll personally give you a tour of some extraordinary areas around Willow when I get back. You can’t really trust Baptiste to be by himself”, Nathan said as he got up from sitting on the pier. “Go on my friend”, Yosef gestured to Nathan as he ran to the stables.
Friday 4th May, 2018- NEW SALEM, STATE OF WILLOW, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The Artist’s life couldn’t get any more exciting than this, despite the blues of the past few months, The Artist actually enjoyed living and thriving in the mysterious world of Magickal Beings and Creatures. As a Deathstalker in this new world, The Artist carried out grueling mercenary and bounty hunting work on behalf of the supernatural. From tracking down rogue Gargoyles to killing bloodthirsty Vampires to silencing MBCs that threated to break The Veil Policy, there was no shortage of fun for The Artist. The training with Red Society’s very own Deathstalker contractors, War Dogs, had helped The Artist master a variety of weapons and techniques to effectively take out both Humans and MBCs. Their leader, Nate Black, a Hollow Deathstalker had been a great mentor and friend to The Artist.
“Silver and Holy Water for Dark MBCs. Hollows, Vampires, Werebeasts you name it”, Nate’s monolithic voice rung in The Artist’s head, “Humans and Elves simply need a straight gunshot to the head or any vital organ. Occulirium bullets for Mages, it disables the magick. Remember and practice this, and you’ll become a good Deathstalker. Because a bad Deathstalker is a dead Deathstalker”. The Artist never forgetting those stern and rigid commands. As Nate had proved himself true to The Artist when he killed a rabid Werewolf the War Dogs were hunting in Jean-Lafitte Forest single-handedly. After that incident The Artist had acknowledged that Nate’s words were not all bark but had bite in them.
“Good times”, The Artist thought, as they sipped on their coffee in kitchen of Apartment D6. A crimson envelope had intrigued The Artist’s eyes. “Haggins Hopkins”, The Artist thought. Despite not being a member of the Red Society, Haggins had a tendency of sending helpful letters in these crimson envelopes. The Artist didn’t mind as they appreciated this gesture more than the simplicity of a text message. The Artist carefully opened the crimson envelope, revealing a neatly folded letter inside. However, it was not the familiar and elegant handwriting of Haggins Hopkins filled the page. Instead, it was the cryptic and flowing script of an unknown sender. The Artist’s heart quickened as they began to read the cold robotic font:
TO WHO THIS MAY CONCERN,
IF YOU ARE READING THIS THEN YOU HAVE BEEN SUMMONED BY FRUMENTARII INC. AT THE BEHEST OF OUR LEADER, LUCIUS D. DECANUS. WE HAVE BEEN MONITORING YOUR ACTIVITIES WITHIN THE WORLD OF MBCs WITH GREAT INTEREST. YOUR SKILLS AS A DEATHSTALKER HAVE NOT GONE UNNOTICED, AND WE BELIEVE YOU POSSESS QUALITIES THAT COULD BE OF GREAT VALUE TO OUR ORGANIZATION.
AS DARKSTALKERS, FRUMENTARII INC. OPERATES IN THE SHADOWS, WORKING IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF OUR VARIOUS CLIENTELE. OUR LEADER, LUCIUS D. DECANUS IS A FIGURE OF IMMENSE INFLUENCE AND POWER WITHIN THESE REALMS. HE HAS A PROPOSAL FOR YOU, ONE THAT COULD ELEVATE YOUR STATUS AND GRANT YOU ACCESS TO KNOWLEDGE AND RESOURCES BEYOND YOUR WILDEST DREAMS.
MEET US IN SAN DOMINGO AT THE COORDINATES PROVIDED BELOW ON THE NIGHT OF THE NEXT FULL MOON:
Latitude: 29.422778
Longtitude: -98.491389
COME ALONE, AND COME PREPARED TO PROVE YOUR LOYALTY. FAILURE TO DO SO WILL HAVE CONSEQUENCES. THE CHOICE IS YOURS.
YOURS IN THE SHADOWS,
FRUMENTARII INC.
The Artist’s mind raced with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. They had heard whispers of Frumentarii Inc. in the underground circles of the supernatural world, an elite organization of Darkstalkers with motives shrouded in secrecy. Only known for carrying out the will of the highest bidder, as all Darkstalkers do by the nature of their profession.
“The Frumentarii are not to be trusted. They will use you for their own goals without a care in the world”, Nate’s voice echoed in The Artist’s skull, “I have a bad history with Lucius and his Frumentarii. After all I’m the one who gave him the scar across his mouth. I would avoid him at all costs if I was you. But if that’s impossible, then give him a big old kiss for me, would you?”. The Artist had heard of Lucius’ exploits through second-hand sources. He was a Shadow Vampire with over 1000 years of experience with no history of failure, expect for the decisive battle he had with Nate Black 20 years ago. Frumentarii Inc. was not only restricted to the borders of Willow but had a worldwide network of the best assassins, torturers and contract killers money could buy, with their members numbering in the thousands.
The Shadow, The Serpent, The Armenian. All these were monikers that Lucius held proudly, as they were a testament to his cunningness, his versatility and his ability to remain an enigma in the shadowy world of Magickal Beings and Creatures.
The Artist pondered on the cryptic letter from Frumentarii Inc., as they were more than motivated to meet the man who held the name, Lucius D. Decanus. Just the sheer thought of it resonated in The Artist’s skull like a haunting melody. While the prospect of what the elite organization could offer was undeniably tempting, they couldn’t ignore Nate Black’s warning about the dangers of dealing with Lucius and his enigmatic group of Darkstalkers.
However, the timing was far from ideal. Tonight, they had a meeting scheduled with their close allies— Lilly, Matt, James and Claire. These friends had been The Artist’s steadfast companions in the world of Magickal Beings and Creatures, and they had to discuss on a plan of which could potentially bring significant change to the disappearance of James and Samantha.
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The Artist knew they couldn’t simply dismiss the summons from Frumentarii Inc., but they also recognized the importance of their ongoing mission with their friends. The balance between personal loyalties and the allure of the mysterious organization weighed heavily on The Artist’s mind.
With a sense of determination, The Artist decided to put off the meeting with Lucius for the time being. Pocketing the letter inside the envelope, they couldn’t help but wonder about the consequences of delaying such a meeting with an organization as influential as Frumentarii Inc. The shadows of uncertainty seemed to grow deeper, but The Artist’s loyalty to their friends and their mission remained resolute.
(12:00 AM)
The Artist and their allies navigated the crowded floor of JayJay’s, their senses keenly attuned to the diverse array of supernatural beings present. It was a scene unlike any they had experienced before, a kaleidoscope of otherworldly beings intermingling beneath the cover of night. As they moved deeper into the establishment, they couldn’t help but overhear fragments of conversations that hinted at the complex and clandestine nature of this hidden world.
As night descended upon the city of New Salem, JayJay’s Jazz Bar, Pub & Grill underwent a remarkable transformation. What was once a lively venue for Humans seeking good music and company now morphed into a clandestine haven for Magickal Beings and Creatures (MBCs) hidden in the city’s shadows. The word had spread among the MBC community about this enigmatic place, where secrets were whispered and alliances forged under the veil of darkness. JayJay’s had become a hub, a sanctuary where MBCs could gather, finding solace in the presence of their own kind.
The very air hummed with an otherworldly energy, crackling with the potential of hidden powers and ancient enigmas. This transformation had been made possible by Rei Hajime, who understood the MBC community intimately, and his connections had turned JayJay’s into a covert meeting place for supernatural beings at late hours.
Vampires occupied booths, their elegant yet eerie allure pulling in curious onlookers. Mages gathered at the bar, their hushed conversations crackling with arcane energy, while the Elves gravitated toward the jazz theater, their ethereal grace showcased in their movements. Each group was deeply engrossed in their discussions or lost in the rhythms of the music, which enveloped the place like a siren’s call. The sheer number of MBCs that converged upon JayJay’s was astounding, surpassing even the renowned MBC hotspots like Boîte de Minuit and The Roundhouse Diner. It was as if the very night whispered the secrets of this hidden gathering spot, beckoning MBCs from the farthest reaches to its doors.
Amidst the diverse crowd, Gargoyles stood as particularly enigmatic figures. These beings, often mistaken for stone statues, were in truth flesh and blood, living embodiments of ancient legend. They perched on the edges of JayJay’s rooftop, their stone-like exteriors contrasting starkly with the dimly lit night. Few had the courage to approach them, their imposing presence a deterrent even to the bravest of MBCs.
Elsewhere, the Kraljan, a race of Beastfolk, mingled more openly within the throng. With their varying animalistic features such as feline ears, bird wings, reptilian scales and foxlike tails, they added a touch of wildness to the atmosphere. Grace and confidence emanated from them as they moved through the crowd, lending a sense of enchantment to the gathering.
“Claire, this place is unlike anything I’ve ever seen”, The Artist said, “Where did all these MBCs even come from in the first place?”. “I know, it’s overwhelming”, Claire replied, “Rei Hajime has always been a key player in the MBC world for as long I remember. Some of these guys are actually patrons from Boîte de Minuit, and since Rei and Mistress Night are on speaking terms, she let them come here. As Boîte de Minuit was starting to get a little too crowded and was drawing a lot attention”.
“What can you tell me about Mistress Night?”, The Artist asked. “Unless its anything specific then not much. All I know she is a Mage that is older than Rei by a few decades and has always been a protector of MBC kind like him. Albeit in her own right through her Children of Night”, Claire replied.
“Well, ain’t this a sight? I’ve seen my fair share of shady dealings, but this place takes the cake. You ready to dive into the deep end guys?”, Dan asked with an eyebrow raised.
“Man, this is insane! I can feel the energy in the air. I’ve got a feeling we’re in for a wild ride”, James said excitedly, humming alongside JayJay’s chaotic but eloquent Jazz playlist.
“I wonder if any of these MBCs would be willing to share their knowledge with me. There’s so much to learn here”, Matt inquired while observing the crowd of magick and wonder.
“Nature has its secrets, and so do these beings. You will find the answers you seek Matt, one step at a time”, Lilly replied to the ever so inquisitive Matt Turner. Though it was always that thirst for knowledge that made Lilly admire Matt in the first place.
(12:37 AM)
As The Artist and their loyal allies ventured deeper into the crowd of MBCs, they couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of belonging. Here, amidst the flickering candlelight and the soft cadence of hushed conversations, they had discovered a community that embraced them without reservation. It was a place where stories flowed like the sweetest ambrosia, knowledge was exchanged like precious gems and support could be found in the face of the unfathomable.
JayJay’s had become more than just a hidden sanctuary, it was a sanctuary of souls who straddled the line between the mundane and the mystical. Within its enigmatic walls, the tapestry of MBCs unfurled like an ancient scroll, each thread carrying a story, a legacy, a mystery. The Artist, with a heart swelling with gratitude, knew that this extraordinary place would forever hold a cherished spot in their heart, a haven where authenticity reigned, where beings of all kinds could dance together in the rhythm of the night.
In a dimly lit room, The Artist and their resolute companions assembled, their eyes alight with determination. The time had come to confront the formidable factions of Willow, to seek answers about the fate of The Artist’s parents and the looming specter of The Willow’s potential resurgence. The weight of their mission hung heavy in the air, a palpable reminder of the challenges that lay ahead.
“Listen up, everyone”, The Artist began with a steady voice, “We’ve come this far, and now it’s time to delve into the heart of Willow’s secrets. We all know the plan in and out by now. We’ve been rehearsing this for the past few months and I just wanted us to meet here to be sure we’re all on the same page. If this plan goes wrong anyone of us could die, and I don’t want any of your blood on my hands”.
Lilly Lou, with her profound knowledge of herbalism and archery, took on the treacherous task of infiltrating The Order of Dawn. Concealing a vial of potent truth serum, she prepared herself for the sacred halls of St. Louis Cathedral, where The Order held its clandestine meetings. “I’m still in. I’ll infiltrate St. Louis Cathedral tomorrow night as expected. You may want to come with me because I might need some help dealing with their knights if things go unexpected. Red Society Regents have reported at least 100 to 200 personnel at the Cathedral”, Lilly vowed.
Claire Sinclair, the enigmatic Human-Mage Hybrid, armed with her mastery of the dark arts and illusion, set her sights on The Cult of Blair. She embarked on a perilous journey to Oak Alley Plantation, where rumors of forbidden rituals abounded. “Don’t worry about me. Their secrets won’t stay hidden for long”, she declared with unwavering determination, “If I need help, I’ll call you. Otherwise, if I run into a mix, then I’ll simply use a long-distance Shift spell to teleport out of there. Hopefully I won’t become Hollow entrée if worse comes to worse”.
Meanwhile, Dan Russell, the former U.S. Marine turned arms dealer, and Matt Turner, the brilliant young scientist, embarked on a daring mission to penetrate Division X. Their three super aircraft carriers: USS Jackson, USS Kimble and USS Conant, sailed the treacherous waters of the Gulf of Mexico, rumors of them harboring secrets that could change the course of their quest. “Division X is a U.S Military organization dedicated to weaponizing supernatural powers for the U.S Government. They’re the off-the-books kind of type. Not even my buddy Andrew at the C.I.A knows about them. Homeland security probably thinks those aircraft carriers are for show”, Dan asserted, “As you said last week, me and Matt will infiltrate one of their carriers on Sunday at dusk. That should give you enough time for you and Lilly to join us if anything goes wrong at St. Louis Cathedral”.
“I know you wanted us to go on the same day as Lilly, but we can’t risk failure on both ends. And I feel Division X is a bigger threat than The Order, so we need all the help we can get. So you go with Lilly to St. Louis, and in case things go wrong we jump in, if not, then you guys will join us in gatecrashing Division X’s latest weapons test”, Matt chipped in, “From what I’ve researched, their largest carrier the USS Jackson reports the most signs of supernatural activity, and it is believed that’s where the weapons test will be held. If possible, we could have infiltrated all three carriers, but we do not have the time or resources to do so”.
“I understand”, The Artist replied, “Like I said, if you feel there’s an issue or risk with the plan, bring it up. I don’t want to be the one to inform someone’s parents or family that their child is not coming home. James, anything you would like to add?”.
As for James Sanchez, the skilled musician and sharpshooter, he plunged headlong into the heart of darkness, infiltrating the infamous car garage of the Salem Marauders in San Domingo. Among the echoing engines and the scent of gasoline, he would move with a silent determination. “Nothing. I’m very knowledgeable of the Marauders”, James declared, “Its just a simple reconnaissance mission. Simply watch, don’t take part, then depart with a smart heart”.
“Don’t jinx it, James. I know the rocker boy in you, so don’t go causing any ruckus”, The Artist chuckled, “We need this reconnaissance mission to go off without a hitch. If you see anything suspicious or get into trouble, remember, discretion is key. We can’t afford to draw attention to ourselves before we’re ready”.
James nodded in agreement, his fingers instinctively tapping a rhythm on the table. “I’ve got this covered. You guys focus on Division X, and I’ll make sure the Marauders don’t get wind of our plans. Once I have the information we need, I’ll rendezvous with you”.
The group fell into a brief silence, each member lost in their thoughts about the challenges that lay ahead. The stakes were high, and the odds were against them, but they were united by a common goal— Find James and Samantha. The Artist and their allies knew that the path ahead was fraught with peril and uncertainty, but they bore the torch of resolve, determined to pierce the shroud of mysteries surrounding the city of New Salem and uncover the truth that had eluded them for far too long.
Sunday 24th August, 1710- COLONY OF WILLOW IN FRENCH AMERICA
(1:09 AM)
“Baptiste, qu’est-ce que foutre se passe?! — (Baptiste, what the fuck is going on?!)”, Nathan screamed in French as he ran towards the assailant. The brute, slightly older than Nathan, wore a tricorn hat atop his head, casting a dark silhouette against the moonlit sky. Its black leather hue was embroidered with gold thread, an emblem of his allegiance to the French crown. The white feather plume that arched proudly to the right seemed to dance in the night breeze. His heavy navy-blue coat, adorned with intricate gold embroidery along the edges and cuffs, billowed as he stood his ground. The coat’s tailored cut accentuated his powerful frame, and the silver buttons on his pristine white waistcoat gleamed in the dim light. It was a display of elegance in the midst of chaos.
Baptiste’s navy-blue breeches, fitting snugly, allowed him the freedom of movement he needed for the coming confrontation. They stopped just below the knee, where they met knee-high black boots. These boots were sturdy and utilitarian, designed to navigate the rugged terrain of the colony with ease. Around his neck, Baptiste wore a white cravat, an unexpected touch of refinement amidst the chaos of the night. A leather belt cinched his waist, its pouch containing secrets and tools of his trade.
In his right hand, Baptiste held a Rapier sword, its steel blade gleaming in the catch of the faintest moonlight. Its presence spoke volumes about the imminent clash that was to occur, a confrontation that held the course of New Salem’s direction.
The brunette-haired head that belonged to the one called Baptiste DeGaulle turned to Nathan’s direction. His facing contorting to that of annoyance and anger at Nathan’s call. His well-kept beard as dark as the shadows that shrouded the New Salem’s narrow streets. The long diagonal scar across his face reflecting the years of battles and close calls that had shaped him into the formidable man he had become.
“What is it?! — (Qu’est-ce que c’est?!) Have you seen your mother’s pussy here, you Puceau?”. Baptiste mocked Nathan in a mixture of English and French. But Nathan didn’t mind the insults because of the stakes at play.
Morris, a young Native American man in his 20s, looked like he was on the verge of death. Nathan could tell that he had not been stabbed by Baptiste’s Rapier but had been badly beaten, evident from the absence of stab wounds and the blood dripping from Baptiste’s knuckles. The Rapier may have been recently pulled out to display dominance, but Nathan wasn’t taking any chances as he drew his own Rapier.
“What? A defender of the savages”, Baptiste boastfully mocked, “I caught this Injun bastard and his spruce monkey tampering with the horses. When I tried to stop him, he tried to attack me with his friends. So, I delivered out justice as the law demands. Don’t tell me you’ve grown soft for the likes of them?”.
Truth be told. Nathan did not want to be involved in this issue. Managing this colony was hard enough as it is, and fighting Baptiste would simply just add to his list of ever-growing problems. But something had sparked inside Nathan’s chest— Anger. Nathan couldn’t just simply brush off the insults Baptiste retorted to him, his honor was at stake. A simple sweep under the rag would have made Nathan look like a weak leader on both sides. Armed guards had held Morris’ supposed accomplices at gunpoint, Kai among them. 17th Century French Muskets ready to fire and kill. The young Kai had grown to be 25 years old. Nathan could not risk it.
Crowds of French, Spanish and English citizens from all walks of life began to gather at the scene. Even Yosef and Father Gonzales seemed to materialize out of thin air among them. If Nathan did nothing and let Baptiste do as he pleased, he at least expect a Chitimacha War Party to raze New Salem to the ground by the break of dawn. If he did the opposite, then he should expect to be called a “Native Sympathizer” or “Savage Lover” for the rest of his life.
Nathan, his heart pounding in his chest, took a moment to weigh is options. What if Baptiste was wrong? What if there really was a plot to tamper with the horses? Or maybe it was all a simple misunderstanding and Nathan just started a fight because he had been called a Virgin.
Nathan stood there, torn between his duty as a colony manager and the burning anger in his chest. The tension in the air was palpable, and the crowd’s murmurs grew louder with each passing second. He knew that his decision in this moment would shape the fate of New Salem and define his legacy. And in that tense moment, Nathan made a choice that would leave the colony in uncertainty in the hands of destiny.