Harrisburg, in front of the State Capitol Building.
The massive granite steps, washed pale by the rain, looked especially solemn under the gloomy sky.
Leo Wallace stood before this temple of power, gazing up at the towering green dome.
Atop the dome, a goddess symbolizing "Pennsylvania" stretched out her hand, watching over the mortals below.
'Mr. President.'
Leo spoke silently in his mind, his voice tinged with urgency.
'The situation in the House of Representatives is already clear. I'm confident I can secure a simple majority of the 203 seats. The wavering members have been scared witless by public opinion; they'll vote yes.'
'But the standard procedure is too slow.'
Leo frowned, his fingers unconsciously fiddling with a button on his jacket.
