24 Dreams Of You And Me

4) Here, We Depart

"History doesn't repeat itself, but it does rhyme."

- Mark Twain

***

The sector under Richard Cahill wanted him as their leader instead of John Lauder. Richard, in greed, didn't think about his best friend and let the rebellion rise.

Cahill residency

Later that night

Richard Cahill took a last drag from his cigarette and sighed. He knew tonight is the night when the future of their tribe will be written.

He was expecting everyone within an hour. Levi was inside his room upstairs packing for a week long school trip he is leaving for tomorrow and their maid had gone, leaving the house in eerie silence.

Richard thought about how he wanted Levi to become a leader. He didn't want his son to do what he did all his life - merely follow the Lauders.

But since demanding leadership could be like declaring war and people may not support his claim, Richard knew he had to act smart.

A knock on the door brought Richard back to reality. He opened the door to see John, Bella and other important people of the tribe whose presence would be needed to discuss such sensitive issues.

"Bella." Richard said as he kissed the back of her hand. "Didn't expect you here."

"And I didn't even expect this type of meeting in the first place." She smiled but the taunt was passed through.

Richard chuckled and invited them all in. Once everyone was seated, the discussion began.

John looked over at Bella and she nodded.

"Richard, you're like a brother to me." John started. "You know what happened 17 years ago... why would you want history to repeat itself? Are you not happy already?"

"John, it's not about my personal happiness. I cannot control what the people demand, now can I?." Richard asked, making eye contact with other family representatives.

"You, as a matter of fact, can. Mr Cahill." Bella spoke elegantly. "Why don't you do anything to repress the rebellion? Why not tell them what's good for them? Unless you're seeking only what's good for you?"

Richard half smirked. "Mrs Lauder, tell me... weren't you once a simple member of the tribe? The Campbells have always been significant in our tribe, though they aren't a part of the noble families. You must be familiar with the people better than any of us, you know... having been a Campbell before you became a Lauder. Remarkable journey, really."

John's eyes snapped to Richard. "What are you trying to say with that?"

"Nothing, John." Richard laughed. "Why would I? If anything, this is a compliment to your wife. Raising up and making your place within the great council.. only strong and wise women like Bella are capable and worthy."

Albert Watson cleared his throat. "This meeting's intent is to discuss the proposals made by Mr Cahill and a few others. Let's keep it to that, shall we?"

"Of course." John said. "Do any of you have any suggestions?" He looked at the other gentlemen present in the room.

By the looks of hesitation in everyone's faces, Richard Cahill knew he could break them.

"There are some supporting my cause." He added. "It may be in your best interest, John. You can't burden yourself with whole America. Practice delegation."

After some more debating and arguments being passed back and forth... Richard Cahill won.

America was divided into two different tribes. West for Lauders, East for Cahills.

Not wanting to waste more time or give any chance for reconsideration, Richard Cahill decided to move from Texas to Illinois.

As soon as Levi comes back from his school trip next week, they'll move.

Levi is now a new successor of an entire tribe, Richard thought proudly.

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