Justice is the end of government. It is the end of civil society. It ever has been and ever will be pursued until it be obtained, or until liberty be lost in the pursuit. In a society under the forms of which the stronger faction can readily unite and oppress the weaker, anarchy may as truly be said to reign as in a state of nature, where the weaker individual is not secured against the violence of the stronger; and as, in the latter state, even the individuals are prompted, by the uncertainty of their condition, to submit to a government which may protect the weak as well as themselves; so, in the former state, will the more powerful factions or parties be gradually induced, by a like motive to wish for a government which will protect all parties, the weaker as well as the more powerful.
She sighed, annoyed at her restlessness. “So,†she said, disrupting Wolf in another backward glance.
“Who would win in a fight—you or a pack of wolves?â€
He frowned at her, all seriousness. “Depends,†he said, slowly, like he was trying to figure out her motive for asking. “How big is the pack?â€
“I don’t know, what’s normal? Six?â€
“I could win against six,†he said. “Any more than that and it could be a close call.â€
Scarlet smirked. “You’re not in danger of low self-esteem, at least.â€
“What do you mean?â€
“Nothing at all.†She kicked a stone from their path. “How about you and … a lion?â€
“A cat? Don’t insult me.â€
She laughed, the sound sharp and surprising. “How about a bear?â€
“Why, do you see one out there?â€
“Not yet, but I want to be prepared in case I have to rescue you.â€
The smile she’d been waiting for warmed his face, a glint of white teeth flashing. “I’m not sure. I’ve never had to fight a bear before.