Chapter 32 Fitran Memories (3)
Fitran was once charged with killing the prominent figures of the Gaia, an accusation that reflects inhumane behavior and is considered an action that is unworthy to live in the land of Gaia. However, he remained unfazed by such claims; to him, the action was perfectly acceptable, as he believed it was merely a norm set by a specific elite group, which included nobles. Given that the creators of these norms are the nobles, they tend to craft rules that align with their own will and interests, establishing a system that grips every aspect of the broader community's life.
The norms were created to benefit the nobility, and according to Fitran, this stands in stark contrast to the principles of freedom in Gaia's society. They arbitrarily mistreat the middle and lower classes, raising a fundamental moral question: can this be considered justice when the powerful oppress the weak? This question not only stems from the local context but also reflects a universal issue often encountered throughout history—how social revolutions emerge when people rise against similar injustices.
Furthermore, the norms in Gaia's society encompass four fundamental levels that distinguish between expected social behavior and what actually occurs.
Firstly, the manner in which the nobility of Gaia regulates the lifestyle of the middle and lower classes is pivotal. The nobility establishes rigid rules that require the middle class and the lower class to never question the will of the nobility in any aspect, resulting in a social relationship that is unequal and oppressive.
Secondly, the customs (folkways) where the nobility of Gaia dictate the living habits of the middle and lower classes. Whenever the nobility of Gaia passes by, the people must bow, with their heads positioned lower than the nobility's posterior. This practice creates an atmosphere that emphasizes not only social hierarchy but also a deep-seated fear of violating the norms established by the upper class. It illustrates the psychological impact of social dominance on the daily lives of the populace, akin to various cultures where similar rituals of respect are practiced to maintain existing social structures.
Thirdly, the code of conduct (mores) provides the nobility the freedom to engage in any actions they desire, even if these violate basic human norms. This includes highly painful actions such as marrying close relatives, same-sex marriages, the murder of slaves, and the rape of individuals from the middle and lower classes without the fear of consequences. Such actions seem to place them above the laws that are meant to protect each individual, creating a moral dilemma for society caught between compliance and human rights.
Fourth, customs are where the bansawan Gaiah are trapped in a system of supreme power under the king or queen of Gaia. They are responsible for regulating all matters related to societal relations, while the queen or king acts as an observer, indirectly involved but maintaining full control over decisions that govern the lives of the people.
In the midst of an increasingly complicated situation, Fitran observed that not everyone felt proud of the norms imposed by the nobility. There was a courageous group of individuals who dared to challenge the status quo, realizing that true freedom was far more valuable than living in painful obedience. They were part of a secret movement called 'Fire of Liberation', which was determined to eradicate the dominance of the nobility and give a voice to the marginalized members of society. This movement was born from a sense of oppression and a fundamental desire for justice, representing a collective effort to forge a new identity in the face of suppression.
Every night when the full moon rises, the members of the Liberation Fire gather in the deep forest, a place shielded from the watchful eyes of the nobles. They share stories of injustice and debate the best ways to influence the everyday lives of the people. During one of these meetings, Fitran saw faces filled with passion and hope, and this time he felt compelled to become more involved. They spoke of revival and change, and the words resonated in Fitran's ears like music that awakened a nearly dormant soul.
"We must hold a massive demonstration in front of the palace," suggested a member named Zira, a brave woman who had always been a driving force in the group. "We cannot just hide and hope the nobles will change. We must show the world that we exist, and we are ready to act!" Her call to action reflected the same fighting spirit as the revolutionaries in history, who advocated for change in pursuit of justice and freedom.
Fitran was taken aback by Zira's words. On one hand, he felt agreement with her. However, on the other hand, he was also worried about the consequences of the potential actions they might take. He understood that the nobles would not remain passive and would likely respond with violence.