What was Blackbird Heavy Industries’ slogan again?
Oh, right.
“Embrace the glorious evolution.”
The bar owner would rather believe that his son and daughter, chosen by Blackbird, really had better development opportunities than to think, as the Alliance claimed, that they were taken to have their brains cut open and turned into robots devoid of self-awareness.
But he found it increasingly difficult to deceive himself.
If it were only the Alliance’s statement, he could dismiss it as false propaganda from a political rival. However, with some survivors returning and the spread of civilian news, these pieces of information could verify what the Alliance had said.
At that moment, the words spoken by Mr. Gu were not what truly convinced him, but they were the last straw that broke the camel’s back.
He struggled to open his mouth. This time, it wasn’t because of the soldiers in front of him, coercing him with force into making an apology. Instead, he had come to a realization from the bottom of his heart.
Yet, in front of him, Dimitriou still didn’t let him speak.
He made a “shush” gesture, signaling the bar owner to keep listening.
The man had no choice but to hold back.
…
Meanwhile, Gu Hang’s voice continued in the broadcast.
After narrating the achievements of the Alliance Government since its establishment, the southern and northern campaigns, the unification of the globe, and the liberation of the entire world, he began to talk about the aftermath:
“…We established a job-ranking system that benefits the whole world, from basic subsistence guarantees to basic medical care; from educational assurance to employment security; from basic welfare to a salary system determined by job rank; from government-led infrastructure construction and large factory production to policies encouraging the public to start their own businesses…”
“The Alliance is committed to ensuring that every individual has a place within its system. Everyone can live with dignity and have the opportunity to achieve a better and higher standard of living and realize their self-worth through their own efforts. The channels for advancement are always open to everyone.”
Hearing this, the bar owner was even more convinced.
If it was all just boasting, that would be one thing, but many of these things had even been verified in his own life.
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Most people he knew, as long as they were physically able and capable of working, were at least ranked as E5. According to the E5 level’s benefits and allowances, this was at least a secure and contented living. For those with jobs, ranking was based on their work; those without, the Alliance took responsibility for assigning and arranging work.
As for himself, since he owned a bar that was doing quite well, he was even ranked as E7.
Admittedly, he had lost the ownership of the bar, which had irritated him. But when it came down to it, the Alliance gave him more than he lost. His previously meager business income was just enough to break even and support his own livelihood. The Alliance’s contribution had actually improved his life.
Of course, the bar’s business could get better in the future. But even though he lost profits, his accelerated rank promotion from running the bar could make up for it. All things considered, he wasn’t at a loss.
Were there any downsides?
There were.
For example, “forced” labor.
The Alliance indeed did not support idleness; even if temporarily out of work, you were expected to sweep the streets or dig foundations at construction sites if assigned. But even for the “black hat” bar owners like him, it was difficult to criticize the Alliance on this point.
If people want to live well, they should work. Where is there such a good thing as being ranked and then lying at home living off welfare? The Alliance, or rather the entire society of Rage Owl Star, was not yet wealthy to that extent.
You don’t want this job? Okay, the Alliance has never restricted anyone from seeking any employment. Assigned to sweep the streets, you’re free anytime to become a factory worker or a store clerk. If you’re not satisfied and want a better future, going back to school is also an option. Adult education can be deferred in payment, and if you have good grades, the tuition can be waived…
From this perspective, every word spoken by the Governor is true, a reality witnessed by the residents under the rule of the Alliance.
But that’s not enough.
At least, in the mouth of Governor Gu, it’s not enough.
“…These are our achievements, but we will never pause for a moment on the journey towards the happiness and welfare of all the people of the Alliance. On behalf of the Alliance Government, I solemnly promise to every citizen of the Alliance:”
“We will persevere in prioritizing economic development and the welfare of the people as the government’s primary concern.”
“We will build more factories, producing more products and food.”
“We will build a stronger military to protect the fruits of our hard work;”
“We will deepen reforms of the Alliance’s systems, invigorating economic development;”
“We will continue to promote anti-corruption policies and advocate for an efficient government, leaving no hiding place for the parasites!”
“We will create more valuable jobs, to accommodate more high-ranking positions, allowing more willing and intelligent Union Citizens to climb the ranks faster, and to receive better treatment.”
“This is the solemn promise I, and the Alliance Government, make to all the residents of the Alliance!”
…
The broadcast speech of Governor Gu has come to an end.
As the words ‘solemn promise’ fell silent, the little tavern in Silver Sand City became noisy and boisterous.
The loyal soldiers of the Alliance, their cheering and joyful voices, hadn’t ceased from the start of the Governor’s speech, and now they had become even louder!
Now, the soldiers, whose passions had been ignited, laughed, boasted to each other, competed in drinking, and no longer paid attention to the small interlude that had just occurred.
Just like the Governor said, we have an infinitely vast cause to work on, who has time to fuss over such trivial matters?
And the tavern owner had become a bit dumbfounded.
He looked around nervously and saw Dimitriou.
He opened his mouth and said, “I… I want to apologize to you.”
Dimitriou smiled and waved his hand, “Judging by your look, I roughly understand your thoughts. You should indeed apologize, but not today. Everyone is in high spirits, no one wants to dwell or listen to you talk about the upsetting incident just now.”
He paused, and the sergeant continued, “Actually, you’ve never needed to apologize to us, your apology should be to Mr. Gu. But Mr. Gu is even more magnanimous than us. Work well, make sure the tavern has more tables, a wider variety of drinks, tastier food… Endeavor to make this tavern better and better, that’s the best apology you can offer.”
The tavern owner took a deep breath and said, “I understand.”
Then, he called out loudly to the noisy soldiers, “Drinks are on the house today! Don’t worry about the loss, I still have plenty of loss margins! Drink up everyone!”
The soldiers laughed and cheered, whistles blowing loudly, no longer dwelling on what had happened before.