Time moved slightly backward, to the second-floor atrium in the Valhalla Hall of Valor.
Although Redbeard's state—wavering between drowning and being nailed to death—was uncertain, he had ultimately "died."
The Pirate Codex, which oversaw the Military Governor election, responded accordingly, its ancient voice mechanical and flat, "Candidate number one, Redbeard Edward, confirmed dead. Candidate number two, Violet, may choose to continue the Great Secret Treasure trial or exit Valhalla now. If you continue the trial, you may obtain full Military Governor privileges after finding the Great Secret Treasure. If you exit now, as the sole candidate, you can automatically assume the position of acting [Military Governor]. Your term will last until a motion for a by-election is initiated by a majority of council members, or until the next election three years from now."
Without any hesitation, Violet immediately replied, "I choose to leave Valhalla right now."
