[TC: Day 218, 108]

  [EC: January 1, 2619]

  As I expected, after they read the Constitution and the ws they would be subject to, those leaders decided they weren’t the leaders of anything.

  When we made the Constitution and the ws avaible to the public to inform them of the rights and the ws they would be living under, some of the people were leery of the change while most seemed to embrace the increased protections for the people.

  In November 2618, elections were held to elect city councils for the cities we’ve built and for the 7 members of the Confederation Council. Several of those running were accused of only being in it to be in powerful positions. A few refused nanoprobe questioning and were disqualified, and a few of the others were questioned. After that, the election went smoothly, and now each city has a town council, which will be setting up the various departments to serve the people.

  They take office in two days, and I’ve been asked to give a speech. I’m not exactly thrilled about it, but with the help of Erin, the Victoria’s AI, I got one written. Afterward, they are holding a formal dance to celebrate, which of course, I’m obligated to attend.

  In the st 14 months, the popution of Earth has seen a rge jump in popution to 44,180 people. The number of farmers and ranchers is more than enough to feed all of them.

  [TC: Day 220, 108]

  [EC: January 3, 2619]

  [19:00 hrs]

  In preparation for my speech, Athena picked out a lovely Metallic blue skater dress and silver heels for me to wear for the occasion. She picks one in silver for herself with some Navy heels, and Max wears a dress shirt, scks, and dress shoes.

  I smile and nod to the dies and gentlemen who make up the Confederation Council and various city leadership seated on the stage as I walk to the podium.

  “Good evening, everyone,

  “I’m Major General Alice Reeves, the commanding officer of the Terran Federation’s forces stationed on and around Earth, and I’ve been asked to speak on this momentous, yet solemn day.”

  Several men whistle and catcall due to how I’m dressed, which makes me smile and chuckle. “Yeah, I know,” I say in an amused tone. “This is the first time any of you have seen me in civilian clothing, but there’s a dance after this and there’s no way I’m going to try to dance in my uniform.”

  I clear my throat and say, “Anyway, I’m a citizen of Terra, yet I began my life as a citizen of the United States. Earth is a very different pce than when I left. At that time, the combined popution of Earth, Mars, and the numerous vessels operating within the Sol system was just over nineteen billion. In contrast, the current popution of Earth is just over forty-four thousand. Please, remember those numbers and remind yourself often what allowing unchecked governmental power does. I urge you to share your experiences with your children, ensuring that these stories are passed down through generations, and preserved in your collective memory.

  “Throughout much of history, humanity has wielded the capability to eliminate not only need but also all forms of life on this pnet. However, the foundational ideals that inspired the American Revolution - namely, the belief that human rights are bestowed not by governmental benevolence but by divine providence - were forsaken in favor of authoritarianism and absolute control. As you strive to recreate a society that values freedom and justice, it is imperative to remain vigint against the historical misdeeds of past governments, which have often prioritized power over the welfare of the people.

  “In previous eras, politicians across the globe frequently employed their voices not to foster unity or enhance the quality of life for their constituents, but rather to create divisions, incite discord, and fabricate crises. They would then propose solutions that involved eroding the rights of the very people they cimed to serve, consolidating their power in the process. This cycle of manipution never addressed the underlying issues, nor was it ever designed to do so. It is essential to recognize this pattern as you navigate the complexities of governance and societal development, ensuring that the lessons of the past inform your actions for a better future.”

  “It’s our sincere hope that history doesn't repeat itself. The Constitutional limitations imposed on governmental authority are designed to prevent the recurrence of past mistakes, provided that you and your children don’t permit such events to unfold again. The lessons of history should serve as a reminder that the government is not the answer to our challenges; rather, it often emerges as the source of those problems.

  “Today signifies a new beginning for your world, one characterized by the absence of national boundaries, thereby eliminating the potential for international disputes. In this contemporary age, a singur Constitution and one set of ws to govern all individuals equally. This principle of equality under the w ensures that every person is subject to the same legal standards and protections, fostering a more just and equitable society.

  “I’m aware of the discussions and cndestine gatherings concerning the establishment of the Terran Federation’s Constitution and ws for Earth. I indeed decided to proceed uniterally, without soliciting your opinions. While I apologize for not involving you, I stand by my choice. Many have asked why. That this is the United States, and you already have a Constitution and ws, so why am I changing things? I have over three hundred thousand reasons why. That’s how many federal ws the people lived under. The Sheriff in my county growing up used to joke that you couldn’t even stand there and breathe without vioting a federal w.

  “I would also like to remind you that while the founding fathers were indeed visionary, they were still human and inadvertently left significant gaps that the federal government exploited to expand its authority, often using that power not for the betterment of the lives of citizens but to exert control over them.

  “The era characterized by such turmoil is thankfully behind us. Nations and governments that existed at the time are no more. You stand as the remnants of the horrific events that transpired, events that the authorities of that time stood by and permitted to occur. These governments, which were expected to defend their people, failed to fulfill their responsibilities. Many of my people and a few of you remember the widespread calls for reform and numerous votes for change, yet nothing changed. Many analysts and self-procimed experts on holovision asserted that the intricacies of society rendered self-governance unfeasible. They cimed that being governed by a select elite was the most viable and only solution, warning that any alternative would inevitably lead to chaos and eventual civil war.

  “My father would always ugh at them and tell me, ‘If no one among us is capable of governing themselves, then how could we trust one among us to be elected to govern?’ He frequently emphasized that every individual, whether within the government or outside of it, shares the responsibility of upholding the principles of a free society. He believed that any proposed solutions to our challenges must be grounded in fact and reason, nor should never come at the expense of freedoms or the gradual erosion of rights. Such approaches are not genuine solutions; rather, they represent another link in the oppressive chain of tyranny designed to restrain the people.

  “As you begin anew, it is crucial to remain vigint, educate yourselves, and familiarize yourselves with your new Constitution and ws. Ensure that those in power are never permitted to jeopardize the pnet's well-being again. Never again allow the government to incrementally strip you of your rights. Always keep in mind that the government is granted its authority from the people, not the other way around. Government should never have power except where granted by the people.”

  I casually lift my shoulders in a shrug and offer a wry smile. “With that said, if you're dissatisfied with your new Constitution and ws, you're welcome to discard them. You can then gather together to create your framework. The citizens of Terra spent years negotiating, sometimes fighting, before reaching the 75% consensus required to ratify our Constitution, but we had my father and Colonel Dayton to ensure we stayed on track throughout the process. Regardless of the path you choose, everyone must participate in the efforts required for this new beginning to succeed, just as all need to share in the benefits that arise from it.

  “I encourage each of you to take the time to read your Constitution and gain a deep understanding of its purpose and structure. Moving forward, you have your leadership in pce, which means that your security and future are now in your hands. The Terran Federation did not come with intentions of domination or control; rather, our goal was to liberate our fellow beings and provide you with an opportunity to establish a robust and equitable society. That objective has been accomplished. The responsibility now lies with you, as you hold the power to shape your destiny.”

  I pause for a moment, fully aware that my announcement may not sit well with many in the crowd. “Effective at 09:00 hours today, all Terran personnel were ordered to return to the fleet,” I state ftly. The crowd erupts in a collective gasp, followed by a flurry of murmurs and discussions among the attendees. Choosing to disregard the commotion, I continue, “You’ve likely noticed the shuttles and drop ships making their rounds. We have accomplished our mission here, and it is time for us to return home. Therefore, at 10:00 tomorrow, my fleet will depart from orbit and return to Terra.

  “I sincerely hope that each of you seizes the opportunity we have provided and works diligently to create a wonderful world for yourselves. It would bring us immense joy to return and discover a vibrant, liberated community. The realization of this promising future lies in your hands, and it’s every one of your responsibility to make it a reality.

  “I extend my heartfelt wish that each one of you can create a fulfilling, prosperous, and happy future. Thank you.”

  I smile and wave at the crowd as I walk off the stage. As I’m walking down the stairs, I hear, “General Reeves, may we have a word?”

  I look over my shoulder and see the members of the Confederation Council and nod. “Certainly.”

  They lead me the short distance to a door and Councilman Keller holds it open for me and then follows me in. I give him a small smile and a nod in thanks as I enter. They stand in a grim-faced cluster before me, and I ask, “Why the long faces? Today is a happy day, a celebration of a new beginning for the Confederation of Earth.”

  I seriously don’t know how they came up with the name. It rolls off the tongue well, so that would be my guess why. However, Earth is not, nor can it be a confederation since a confederation is a group of independent jurisdictions that come together for a shared government, but retain their authority and autonomy.

  As I stand in the softly lit hallway, I can feel the weight of their stares on me. The council members with their serious expressions and concerned murmurs, seem baffled by my announcement of our departure.

  I see Councilor Keller step forward, eyebrows raised, clearly skeptical but curious. “General Reeves,” he begins, his deep voice echoing in the hallway, “thank you for agreeing to speak with us. You know who we are, but I’ve been elected by my fellow council members to be the president of the council. We’d like to know why you are leaving Earth unannounced.”

  I grin cheekily. “I wouldn’t say that, President Keller. You just heard me make the announcement.” He frowns, and I take a deep breath. As I exhale slowly, I allow my eyes to close momentarily. “President Keller,” I respond softly, “it is time for us to return home. As I mentioned in my address, we have accomplished our mission.”

  I can practically see the wheels spinning in Councilor Mei’s mind as she wonders why I won’t stay to help them. “General Reeves, your presence matters. You’re a symbol of hope for so many,” she states, her voice melodic yet ced with urgency.

  I understand where she’s coming from; after all, my troops and I have worked hard to earn everyone’s trust. “That may be, but what happens when our assistance becomes a crutch?” I retort mildly, a hint of worry creeping into my tone, “Rebuilding requires effort and resilience from everyone - not just from us.”

  I notice the collective nod of acknowledgment, and yet, I can see their unease; conversations like this tend to generate a delicate push and pull of emotions.

  With a heavy sigh, Councilor Patel interjects, “Are you saying that your departure is needed?”

  The skepticism in his voice is easily recognizable, and I can’t bme him for misunderstanding my intentions. “Not necessarily,” I crify, “but I do see it as advancing the Confederation’s self-reliance. If I stay here too long, I risk making those who need to rise and take control of their future dependent on our rgess.”

  I lean forward, my hand emphasizing my words, “You're all in this together. Now that there’s a government, it’s up to you to earn their trust because that directly ties into the groundwork for the Confederation. If I stay too long, I risk undermining that effort. You need to become the leaders I know you are capable of being.”

  I can't help but smile as Councilor Harris, whose eyes reflect excitement and understanding, momentarily breaks through the weight of the conversation. “You’re absolutely right, General,” she says, “it’s time for us to prove we can stand on our own feet.”

  I return her smile and say, “Exactly.” I take a moment to gnce around the room, making eye contact with each of them. “What else could you possibly need? You have everything you need for success right here. We’ve provided the technology we promised, along with all the necessary tools to make it work. Our vast database, which includes every book, piece of music, film, and more, is now at your fingertips. Plus, we’ve supplied the shuttles, asteroid harvesters, and cargo ships that will enable you to reach Armstrong moonbase, extract resources from the asteroid belt, and ultimately recim Mars and Ceres.”

  I pause again, scanning their faces. “What more could you ask for? The power to recim your sor system is in your hands. You don’t need our help anymore, and honestly, we’re looking forward to heading back home to be with our families and friends. We can’t wait to share the news with everyone on Terra that we found survivors and gave you a second chance. Councilors, we simply can’t stay.”

  President Keller nods hesitantly. However, there is a flicker of doubt in his eyes as he looks around at the other councilors. They all seem to be processing the conversation, some with expressions of gratitude, others with uncertainty.

  As I wait for their response, I can't help but feel a small pang of guilt for leaving. Yet, I know deep down that it is time for us to leave. To pass on the burden to the Confederation Council and the people they represent. The fate of their sor system now rests in their hands, and I have faith that they will rise to the challenge.

  President Keller finally speaks up, his voice filled with determination. “Thank you for everything you have done. We understand your need to return home, and we promise that all of your efforts will not be in vain. You have given us hope and a second chance.”

  I nod firmly and smile at them. Without another word, I turn on my heel and walk out the door. As I head to the convention hall to join Athena and Max for the dance, my two guards fnk me, and I look up at the ceiling with a small smile, filled with certainty that they’ll make it work. That together, they could rebuild their society. President Keller’s final statement had ignited a spark within them, a spark that would light the way forward toward a better future for them all.

  As I near the hall, I silently promise, ‘We’ll be back. Count on it.’