The Rise - Chapter 31

Immediately at the beginning of homeroom, each class representative handed out polling papers to the students in all classes. They had two minutes to fill it in. Veronica was able to convince the vice principal that polling was essential for creating a truer political environment and for giving candidates important feedback that otherwise wouldn’t exist.

Leon didn’t do much after his initial move except make himself scarce from class to class until lunchtime. He did not want to be questioned by the student population as that would affect his legitimacy. Questions such as “how will you possibly bring ATMs to school” could never be answered sufficiently in a short time. Instead, Leon will keep them in suspense waiting for him to explain how he will bring about the desires they never knew they wanted.

There were posters of Jessica Twint, George and Sinclair all over the school but none for Leon. Sinclair set up several tents in the backyard of the school in which there were several activities meant to keep students busy and give Sinclair the ability to connect with the students and convince them to vote for him. The tents were open for business during lunch and after school for a few hours.

George’s stage was set up and was preparing for his usual comedy show in which students would perform gags and stand-up comedy – it was a huge hit last year. It was only open during lunch-time and would often attract most of the student body.

Jessica on the other hand was avoiding large scale events. She was gradually passing out badges, t-shirts and cupcakes with her name and slogan on them. She had several students supporting her in the distribution of the goodies from her club connections.

Leon purposely walks past Jessica in the corridor and then makes his way towards the roof making sure Jessica sees him. She reluctantly follows him carrying with her a basket of goodies.

“ATMs? A Valet? Really?” she said to Leon who was by the fence on the roof. His blazer was ruffling in the wind and he was constantly adjusting his hair but his efforts were always interrupted by a heavy gust of wind.

“I asked myself what can I do to get rich kids to care about this election.” he said “It doesn’t really matter if these things are seemingly cosmetic, what matters is the change in thought.”

“Oh, I’m quite aware. I would’ve appreciated a heads up seeing as we’re ‘working together’” she continued

“I didn’t know whether or not it would work. But I will tell you this: the student body has always seen the student council as something superficial that had no impact on them – but know you and I must work to make them believe the student council works for them and any council that doesn’t aim to pander to them is insufficient. They have the parasitical idea that they can actually get these tablets instead of books, ATMs and such if only they vote for the right president.” said Leon

“Why are you telling me what I already know” she said sighing

“Because you are still trying to play this election as a popularity contest.” Leon walks towards Jessica “You, George and Sinclair are all batting a blind eye to my attempt to shift the battlefield – and it’s working. There are already students talking about how I’ll never be able to bring about the changes they want anyway. The fire that lit within them this morning is dying quickly” continued Leon

“And you’re saying if you and I both ditch this popularity contest thing it’ll make your promises of change more legitimate.” she said

“Exactly, that way George and Sinclair will surely fall behind if they don’t decide to play on my terms.” said Leon

Jessica pauses as she thinks about Leon’s proposal.

“I know it’ll be hard to switch your approach this late into the game, but we said we’d work together to get an edge over Sinclair and George. This will give us that edge.”

Jessica continues her silence locking eyes with Leon.

“Think about it, okay?” said Leon as he walks past Jessica towards the roof door.

“Can I trust you Leon.” she said suddenly.

Leon turns around and looks at Jessica who had a suppressed frown

“Don’t act like we don’t both know, you’re using how I feel about you to your advantage.” she said

Leon avoids making eye contact and digs his thumb into his finger fiddling.

“If you want to play along or not is your own decision Jess. The past is over and there’s no going back. So regardless, this is good for both of us and you know it.” said Leon ending the conversation there and leaving. Jessica releases a deep sigh as soon as Leon leaves and clenches her fist.

Veronica notices Leon coming down from the roof in a hurry with a tense look on his face. He didn’t notice her, but the two couldn’t talk to each other in school anyway. Veronica goes up the stairs and makes her way towards the roof. Upon reaching the roof she finds Jessica looking down. Jessica hears someone behind her, she turns around and the two lock eyes.

It may be important to generalize how high school elections usually go, to help understand Leons plan. Candidates use superficial slogans such as “Vote for X for a ‘better’ government”, “We’re smart, we’re efficient, vote for X”. It usually has nothing to do with policy – since student governments just have almost no power and students usually don’t care enough. This is why they are popularity contests – who talks to most people – catchy slogans and who’s already popular.