Chapter 5: The Last Defense

“Supply chief system?” Everyone looks confused—they’ve clearly never heard of it.

I patiently explain: “Booker first used this during the Second Revolution. The idea’s simple—let locals run their own logistics. We pick trusted local families as supply chiefs; they’re responsible for collecting and delivering rations for their area. Each chief covers a set number of neighborhoods and families. The administration holds only the chief accountable. That keeps the supply chain secure, reduces government pressure, and stops local officials from skimming off the top.” I lay out the core ideas of Booker’s supply chief system, which worked in early Reconstruction. It’s exactly what we need to fix Richmond’s crisis.

I sketch a map on the table. Foster nods, grinning.

“That’s brilliant!” Foster’s eyes light up with understanding. “If this method can be implemented, our army’s logistics will be secure!”

Jenkins still looks hesitant, but seeing my determination, he knows better than to argue.

He glances at Foster, then at me, then lowers his eyes. “Understood, sir.”

“I’ll appoint someone special to oversee this. For now, your most important task is to unite, reorganize the troops, and prepare to face the enemy!” I raise my voice. “I want the Coalition to know that the Union’s cities aren’t easy pickings!”

The commanders answer as one. Their morale lifts.

Their voices echo down the hall, a small but defiant chorus. For the first time in months, I sense a spark of hope.

Just as I think all arrangements are in place and I’m about to refine the city defenses, a Secret Service agent suddenly bursts in, flustered, his voice trembling: “Report—! Reporting to the President, thirty miles south of the city, our patrols have discovered several suspicious individuals, suspected to be Coalition spies!”

My heart tightens. So soon? They can’t wait and are already sending scouts?

They’re moving fast.

Fine. If it’s a game you want, it’s a game you’ll get.

A cold smile tugs at my lips. Looks like the first shot will be fired here.

I square my shoulders and meet the eyes of my commanders. The game has changed, and I’m ready to face it head-on, the American way—with grit and fire.