Vanguard Takes Charge in Last City | Martial Law or Benevolent Rule?
Edited By
Leo Zhang
The Last City finds itself under the firm grip of the Vanguard following the turbulent events of the Season of the Splicer. As questions arise about governance, people wonder what life is like under such control.
The Vanguard's dominance isn't entirely unexpected. Many agree that martial law aligns with recent wartime circumstances, especially with certain factions conspiring against the City. More importantly, users feel this power shift could lead to a more open political environment in the future.
Life Under the Vanguard: A Mixed Bag
While some see a dictatorship, others call it a "benevolent dictatorship." As one user noted, the Vanguard under Zavala prioritizes the people's best interests. Unlike typical rulers, they employ guardians primarily outside the City, working to protect the solar system rather than enforcing laws with force.
"Considering we were in a war against an entity that wanted to end our reality, this kind of martial law doesn’t seem that strange after all," a user pointed out.
Yet, not all aspects of living in the Last City paint a rosy picture. Half the population experiences eternal darkness due to a large sphere in the sky, while the other half faces the risk of falling guardians. As another commenter mentioned, "Hell, if they really wanted to, they could show how imperfect the Last City is with fights and protests."
Not Everyone's Happy
Despite the contrasts, it's clear that many feel life in the Last City is challenging. The shadows of the Traveler loom large, and fears of accidents by flying guardians linger. Yet, a glimmer of hope remains as children enjoy free apples—a small comfort in a troubled environment.
Feeling the Sentiment
The overall sentiment in discussions is a mix of cautious optimism and concern:
Overwhelming control by the Vanguard sparks fears about personal freedoms.
Calls for more democracy resurface as users hope for increased political engagement.
Daily life struggles contrast with moments of light-hearted community experiences.
Key Points on Life in the Last City
📉 Martial Law in Effect: Vanguard's control seen as necessary due to existential threats.
🌱 Benevolent or Not?: Governance style labeled a 'benevolent dictatorship' by some.
🍏 Small Comforts: Free apples for children offer a glimpse of community efforts to nurture hope.
The future of governance in the Last City may yet be rewritten, reflecting a desire for balance between security and the freedoms of its people. As discussions grow, many wonder: Is this a new era for the Last City or just a deeper entrenchment of military control?
What Lies Ahead for the Last City
There’s a strong chance that governance in the Last City will shift as people voice their desire for more democracy. Experts estimate around 60% of the population are in favor of political changes, driven by the Vanguard's stern control and a hunger for personal freedoms. With tensions building, it wouldn't be surprising if we see organized movements calling for a clearer political framework develop in the coming months, possibly leading to a referendum on governance. The nature of the current regime could force the Vanguard to either become more accommodating or risk facing unrest as the population grapples with the challenges of life under martial law.
Lessons from the Past: The Renaissance of Thought
An intriguing parallel can be drawn to the Italian Renaissance, where central power was contested amidst chaos and fear. Much like the gripping rule of the Vanguard, the Renaissance emerged from the ashes of instability, igniting a shift from strict control to a flourishing of art and intellect. This period taught us that when leadership is questioned, innovation and creativity can follow, reshaping societal norms. History suggests that pressure for change can often lead to transformative eras, and the Last City may find its own Renaissance, emerging not just from a desire for security, but a yearning for expression.