Falanya sensed no lies in her brother’s speech. She had no choice but to accept that Wein had spoken from the heart.
“So you’d allow the citizens to fight one another until the weakest are eliminated?”
“That’s right. Competition makes a group stronger, smarter, and wealthier, plus it keeps the politicians in line. This type of harsh surveillance is best for everyone.”
Were such intentions noble-minded or pure arrogance? Most rulers opposed the idea of strong, intelligent citizens who might threaten their power and authority. This meant those in charge had to keep one step ahead, which proved a considerable challenge.
Deep down, every politician sought a weak, docile, and efficient population. However, Wein insisted he didn’t mind how strong and learned people became, since it would lead to further prosperity. Anyone would’ve taken him for an honest soul untainted by ego. And while it was true that Wein didn’t cling to social rank, he also boasted absolute confidence. A million citizens could rise against him, and he’d see them as no threat.
“That’s just like you, Wein…”
Finally, Falanya understood. A few years ago, she would have been overwhelmed by her brother and unable to comprehend his words. She was different now, though. Her studies and experiences allowed her to unravel his argument.
Thus…
“Do you think I’m wrong, Falanya?” Wein asked.
“Yes, I do.”
…Falanya’s response was swift and true.
“Oh…?” Wein replied, his eyes wide. Surprise, curiosity, and delight danced in his gaze. “Interesting. How so?” he questioned as if testing her. “You’re not just saying that because you feel sorry for the people, are you?”
“Of course not.”
Previously, Wein would’ve been right. Falanya had pitied those unable to keep up with Natra’s rapid progress. There was no denying that her brother’s methods had uplifted the majority, though.
Falanya had fumbled after a way to refute Wein’s policies, perhaps even prove him wrong. She’d pondered, searched, and investigated, then at last had come to a conclusion.
“It’s true your methods have empowered our people. Many will surely flourish, but only for now.”
“What do you mean?”
“I’m talking about our current era. As Natra prospers, there will be demands for greater strength as people grow acclimated to the new normal. We both know firsthand how the systems of an era, culture, or society are ever-changing and often drastic. Those needed in times of war differ from times of peace. That strength might not be enough in the future.”
Falanya forced herself to remain resolute. “Wein, your policies focus on survival of the fittest and specialization. They have served Natra well so far, but there’s a dangerous chance we’ll fail to adapt to the next era and break apart.”
Adaptation was an organism’s first step to success, and excessive conformity dulled that ability. A butterfly that drank only the bold, nutritious nectar of a single flower would perish if that blossom did not grow after a change in environment.
“You support those who have adapted, and I have no objection to that. I’ll even agree that it’s necessary. However, everyone else still has value. When change inevitably arrives, they’ll shine and uphold the nation.” Falanya paused to collect herself. “Of course, reality isn’t so simple. Keeping citizens who would otherwise be pushed out will increase the burden on society, and the strongest will protest. We’ll have to keep them in check, but that’s what wealth and politicians are for.”
As Natra’s fortune rose, it gained the ability to aid the downtrodden. Well-adjusted citizens would undoubtedly scorn those efforts and all who benefited. It was only a matter of time until people with superior positions, abilities, and achievements created their own societal hierarchy within the non-ruling populace.
“The only ones who can act as a link between the haves and have-nots are rulers who oversee millions and chart the course for the next century,” Falanya declared with confidence. “This isn’t about compassion. It’s a necessary effort to guarantee the future of our nation. To watch in silence as that promise disappears is nothing more than negligence!”
Falanya’s shoulders heaved as she finished, and Wein clapped lightly in admiration for his sister.
“Wow, Falanya. I never expected such a detailed answer.”
He smiled, but Falanya stared at him sternly. She’d normally lift both hands in delight at his praise, yet she found herself wondering how much sincerity there was behind that grin.
“Come on, don’t make that face. It’s an honest compliment. You’ve really learned a lot,” Wein said. “Which means you know, right? You know why I can’t accept your philosophy.”
“…”
Of course she did. Wein could recognize her proposal but never accept it. Falanya spoke to the fate of Natra and its people, whereas Wein spoke only of the latter.
The reason was obvious—Wein had absolutely no attachment to Natra itself.
“Like you said, Falanya, a cooperative framework is essential if we’re to use the riches gained from our more flexible citizens to support the rest. One village, town, nation, and people. It’s the only way citizens will agree to share the wealth. But why plan so far ahead?” Wein asserted. “Sure, our strength might fail us someday. But if Natra is destroyed before we can find new power, doesn’t that just mean it was our time?”
“…”
She understood what Wein meant. Her brother was an advocate of total individualism, where everyone contributed to society as they chose.
It was an apt position for someone like her brother who, despite his noble bloodline, laughed off the idea of inherited power and insisted anyone could be king. To Wein, Natra was not a land of eight hundred thousand citizens, but eight hundred thousand individuals. A kingdom was a mere disposable container.
“A unified body isn’t meant only to assist the unfortunate,” Falanya countered, already aware of her brother’s feelings on this subject. “Standing beside one’s comrades under the same flag bolsters the heart, contributes to societal advancements, and serves as a pillar in times of hardship. Whenever people come together, the impossible becomes possible. Even if someone falters for a moment, others will protect them until they’re back on their feet. A kingdom is a precious connection between many and the key to our future. I can’t permit such ridicule, even from you!”
“In that case,” Wein began, “permit me to say one more thing, Falanya.”
“Ngh…”
“When two sides cannot agree who should hold one seat, a certain declaration is inevitable.”
Falanya had hoped to avoid this, but the die was already cast. Neither she nor Wein would be swayed. He was right. What came next was inevitable.
“I love Natra and its people. I want them to lead full, happy lives in our kingdom for many years to come. However, that will never happen under your rule, Wein. Someone like you, who considers everyone an accomplice, will one day become an enemy of the kingdom. And so I…”
She took a breath.