March 1, 1897.
Philadelphia, Amerathia
The air was crisp and cold, the streets alive with banners, the hum of conversation, and the restless anticipation of a major speech. Philadelphia was just the first stop in what would be a grueling campaign, but Matthew Hesh knew that every word he spoke tonight would define the battle ahead.
Thousands had gathered outside the governor's mansion, the main square packed with citizens from all walks of life—factory workers, soldiers, small business owners, farmers, and families with children wrapped in wool coats. They were here for one reason—to see the man who had stopped a war, the man who had taken on Washington's corruption, the man who now sought another four years in office.
