“We have the key,” Jean said, handing the electronic device to Monique when he entered the hidden chamber later that day. “And the guard won't be a problem. Did you find the thief?”
“I would prefer, sir, if I wasn’t called something as crass as ‘thief,’” a young woman replied from a pile of equipment on the floor.
Jean didn’t know who this woman was, but just being down here meant she knew about the plan to take the base and stand up to their captors. She was relatively short by his count, but being a head shorter than a tall Frenchman wasn’t saying much.
There was an odd irony in seeing a thief dressed in white. The jumpsuit served as a stark contrast against her short black hair, angular eyes, and tan skin. On the ground in front of her was a pile of tools that resembled a lock-picking set.
“Tactical infiltrator then,” he smirked. “Who are you, by the way?”
“Takumi Musei. I am, as put it, a tactical infiltrator. How long have you known about this place?” she replied curtly.
“Long enough to steal a key for the overcomplex and make a plan to overthrow our jailers.”
“For what purpose? We are far from home and unable to get home.”
“That, my dear madame, is simple. I seek to create a home for humanity, a base where we can retreat and lick our wounds when the fighting is done. I want a place where we are truly free and a person answers to no master other than themselves.” He explained, crouching to examine one of the homemade lock picks laid out on the stone floor.
“You wish to recreate the America of old, but in the stars?”
Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.
Jean laughed, “Not at all. I want to create something better. Have you ever heard of New Haven?”
“The pirate stronghold from the twenty-sixth century?”
“The same. When I am done recreating this world of freemen, none will answer to a master or even a government. I watched for far too long while our previous world fell into ash, only for the problems to be ignored by a government sworn to protect its people.” Jean straightened and walked to the large piece of metal they used as a writing board.
“That will… be a disaster. Don’t you remember the havoc the pirates of old played? The number of people they killed for no other reason than desire? Someone must lead these people, fight for them, and make decisions on their behalf when the pressure is too great.”
Truth be told, Jean had considered those problems. A land of true lawlessness often ended in more pain and suffering than the government they replaced. As a concept, the idea of living a life for yourself was wonderful. But what happens when the life you want is interrupted by someone else?
What justice can be found when no laws exist to enforce it?
“I want to say they must fight for themselves, but you are right.” Jean nodded in acceptance, “Well then, Takumi Musei, what do you suggest in order to realize the dream?”
“You need structure: A person on top, watching the overall picture to ensure operations run smoothly. Then, you need Officers of a station high enough to enforce their will, but not abuse it. Last, people need to be incorporated into the conversation. They need the ability to vote on all incoming issues, both important and unimportant.” She explained like he was a child, “Without the freedom of a true vote, you would recreate the world you wish to destroy.”
“For so long, governments have bastardized the ability to vote. Do you really think they will trust me?” He grinned, running his hand over his smooth head. “The United Human Republic’s ‘representative democracy’ has been a sham for a long time. The only people those senators have ever served are themselves and the company that paid for their vote.”
“If you are serious about a world truly for the people, do better. Create a world where the mother in the street has the same voice as the rich man in his tower.” Takumi rolled to her feet with practiced ease and stuck out her hand, “If that is truly what you want in this world, then allow me to join you now so I may stand by your side and watch it rise.”
