The Empire of Reimia (3)

— Every nation has experienced periods of violence and bloodshed,” Imir disagreed with Parfynora’s arguments, and she noticed that although he was somewhat agitated, he spoke with more confidence than usual. “I’m not well-versed in history, but even I know about the dark side of our country. Does that mean I should ‘logically’ reject everything the empire represents, even despite all its positive aspects? After all, we have been ruled by one dynasty for centuries.” Imir closed his eyes and pondered. “The teachings of Ikigaya contain nothing bad, and in Galmey’s speeches, I heard nothing but good and compassion.”

“Our country has had periods of violence and bloodshed, but no one tried to gloss over these episodes with words about good and harmony. Everyone understood that Thiary was doing evil. And in the end, our people tried to overthrow him – and they succeeded. Meanwhile, the followers of Ikigaya are committing murders right now – the last known case was less than 30 years ago – and at the same time, they claim to bring only good and harmony. Right now, they are sending people for ‘re-education’ – and only ‘re-educated’ people return from there. You say you will choose for yourself. But Galmey just said that no one has ever returned from ‘re-education’ as someone who is not an Ikigayan. Doesn’t that suggest that they have no choice?