There was a young prince who was born as the chosen heir to the Kingdom. He was nice and kind despite being a ferret but he was smart for his age.
The young prince, named Ferdinand, grew up under the careful guidance of his parents, the King and Queen. One day while training in the art of the sword, a young rabbit showed up and asked to play with him. Ferdinand wanted to play with him but princely duty had other plans. “I’m a prince, and princes don’t play with slaves.” He said pretending to be above him.
The young rabbit looked up at Ferdinand with a mix of hurt and determination in his eyes. "Just because you're a prince doesn't mean you can't have fun like everyone else," the rabbit replied, his voice soft but firm. "I may be a slave, but that doesn't define me."
The prince felt guilty but he knew his dad, was strict so he pulled his sword. “Do you want to be dinner, slave?”
The rabbit, undeterred by the prince's threat, stood his ground with surprising bravery. His ears twitched nervously but his voice remained steady. "I may just be a lowly slave in your eyes, but I have something you'll never have - true courage and kindness." With that, he hopped forward and gently nudged the prince's sword aside with his hand.
Ferdinand was taken aback by the rabbit's boldness and the depth of his words. His heart was conflicted between the teachings of his father and the stirring of empathy within him. Lowering his sword, he looked into the rabbit's eyes and saw not a slave, but a fellow soul with spirit as unyielding as his own.
“Look” Ferdinand whispered. “I won’t have any power until I become King.” “If you want freedom, Leave me the fuck alone.”
The rabbit's ears drooped slightly at the prince's harsh words, but he held his gaze steady. "Freedom isn't granted by kings or titles," he said softly. "It is earned by those who are brave enough to stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity." With a final nod of respect, the rabbit turned. The prince grabbed him. The rabbit turned to look at the prince. “I can’t offer you anything but it’s not unusual for a prince to have many young slaves in his employ.” He said
The rabbit's eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected offer from the prince. He hesitated for a moment, processing the sudden turn of events. Slowly, a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he realized that perhaps there was more to Prince Ferdinand than met the eye.
"I may be just a slave, Your Highness, but I have dreams and aspirations of my own," the rabbit replied, his voice filled with a newfound spark of hope. "If you're willing to offer me a chance to prove myself, then I will stand by your side and serve you faithfully."
Prince Ferdinand studied the rabbit with a mix of curiosity and admiration. In that moment, he saw not a lowly slave, but a potential companion who could teach him valuable lessons about courage and kindness. With a nod of acceptance, he extended his hand towards the rabbit.
“I promise when I’m king your first two kids will be trained as knights.”
The rabbit's eyes shone with gratitude and determination as he clasped the prince's hand firmly. A silent understanding passed between them, a recognition of the bond that had formed in that unexpected encounter. As they stood there, prince and slave, a new sense of camaraderie bloomed within the young Ferdinand. “My name is Edwin Brown, I am honored to serve you, Prince Ferdinand," the rabbit, now known as Edwin Brown, said with a deep sense of loyalty in his voice. The prince studied the rabbit, rags torn and dirty. “You’re a mining slave.” said the prince.
Edwin Brown met Prince Ferdinand's gaze with unwavering determination, his eyes reflecting the weight of his past struggles and the flicker of hope for a better future. "Yes, Your Highness, I have toiled in the dark tunnels of the mines for as long as I can remember," he admitted with a touch of weariness in his voice. "But I believe that even a humble mining slave can rise above his circumstances and make a difference in this world."
The prince looked at Edwin remembering something “So you admit to killing two of my guards to make your escape here.” He said
Edwin Brown's ears drooped at the prince's accusation, guilt shadowing his features for a moment before he straightened, meeting Ferdinand's gaze with a steady resolve. "Yes, Your Highness, I did what I had to in order to gain my freedom," Edwin confessed, his voice tinged with a hint of regret. "But I swear on my life that I never sought to harm anyone unjustly. Those guards gave me no choice but to defend myself."
Ferdinand thought about Edwin, looking through the guards reports. “One of the guards raped your Mom?” He said thoughtfully.
Edwin's eyes widened in shock at the prince's question, a mix of surprise and sorrow crossing his features. His breath caught in his throat for a moment before he nodded slowly, the weight of the past heavy on his shoulders. "Yes, Your Highness," Edwin murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "It was a day I'll never forget... the day they took everything from me." A flicker of pain and anger flashed in his eyes as he recalled the traumatic events that had shaped his life.
The prince looked through the report again. “A guard attacked another women, his knife dropped, it’s no question you used his knife to kill the two guards but did you allow him to rape that rabbit while you hid the knife?”
Edwin Brown's eyes filled with tears as he struggled to find the words to respond. He took a deep breath, trying to steady his voice as he spoke.
"Your Highness, I can't deny the truth of what happened that day," Edwin said, his voice trembling. "My mother was subjected to a horrendous act of violence at the hands of those guards, and yes, I did hide that knife. I wanted to find a way to avenge her dishonor and free ourselves from their cruel grasp."
Ferdinand studied the rabbit's tear-stricken face, feeling a pang of empathy. He knew that the path to power required tough choices, but he also understood that true leadership was born from compassion and understanding.
“Why did you leave your brothers and sisters there?” Ferdinand inquired.
Edwin Brown's eyes filled with pain as he thought of the ones he had left behind. "Your Highness, when I made my escape, I didn't have a choice. I needed to save myself first and gather enough strength to make a change one day. I never wanted to leave them, but it was the only way I could survive." A flicker of determination glimmered in his eyes as he vowed to return and free them all.
Prince Ferdinand nodded in understanding, sensing the complexity of Edwin's decision. He knew that his newfound friend had faced unspeakable hardships, but he believed that together, they could create a better future for all.
Ferdinand wrote a list of directions, and slipped the paper to Edwin “This is where the Skycross family lives, they know my stance on slavery and are in the best place to help you.”
Edwin Brown accepted the paper gratefully, his heart swelling with hope. "Thank you, Your Highness," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. "I promise to do everything in my power to free my siblings and make this world a better place for all who have been unjustly burdened."
Ferdinand looked deep into Edwin's eyes, seeing the resilience and determination that had made him change his views on slavery. "You have my word, Edwin Brown," the prince said solemnly. "When I become king, I will work tirelessly to abolish the institution of slavery, and ensure that those like you are given the opportunity to live free and prosperous lives."
Edwin turned to leave but before he moved. “I have one last question for you.”
"Yes, Your Highness?"
Prince Ferdinand paused, considering his words carefully. “Do you know how your species became slaves?”
Edwin Brown furrowed his brow at the prince's question, a mix of curiosity and unease in his eyes. “I know the stories that have been passed down. That your species and other species, killed, raped, pillaged, burned our homes, and enslaved the survivors. In the act of greed and power you used them to enslave the ones known to escape, until no rabbit was free and freedom was a history with no known time.”
Prince Ferdinand nodded solemnly, his heart heavy with guilt for the injustices his ancestors had perpetrated against the rabbits. "I wish I could say that those stories were nothing but myth," he said, his voice tinged with sorrow. "But the truth is, they are all too real. Our ancestors committed atrocities against your people, and for that, I am deeply sorry."
Edwin Brown looked at Prince Ferdinand with a mix of sadness and understanding. "Thank you for acknowledging our history and the pain that still echoes through our communities," he said softly. "But know that not all members of your species are to blame for the actions of the past. Just as your ancestors enslaved us, we too were enslaved by others before."
The prince looked at Edwin, seeing a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "You are right, Edwin. We must learn from our mistakes.”
The prince thought about Edwin’s story. “That event happened Five thousand years ago.”
Edwin stared at the prince, his expression a mixture of surprise and disbelief. "Five thousand years?" he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "I thought... I never imagined it could be that long ago." A wave of sadness washed over him as he realized the weight of his people's suffering.
Ferdinand stepped out to go train before the mentors would go look for him. “You better not stay here.” He warned.
Edwin Brown nodded solemnly, understanding the urgency of the situation. He knew he couldn't stay hidden any longer; it was time to take action.
As Prince Ferdinand left to train, Edwin prepared to make his way to the Skycross family's estate. He hoped that with their help, he could free his siblings and bring about change in the oppressive system of slavery.
As he began his journey, Edwin couldn't help but reflect on the long road that lay ahead. He knew that his newfound ally, Prince Ferdinand, was determined to end slavery, but there was still so much work to be done.
The road was treacherous, and Edwin encountered many dangers along the way. Bandits, wild animals, and even soldiers loyal to the current rulers tried to thwart his progress. But Edwin's determination and the hope that burned within him kept him moving forward.
Edwin looked at the castle in awe. It was the symbol of power and oppression that he had been fighting against for so long. The grandiose walls, the towering turrets, and the imposing gates seemed to taunt him, reminding him of the countless lives that had been enslaved in the name of the rulers who resided within. But Edwin also knew that it was the key to his mission - the Skycross family, who had the power and the means to help him and his siblings achieve freedom.
With a deep breath, Edwin approached the castle, his heart pounding in his chest. He knew that the path would not be easy, but he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. The time had come to put an end to slavery, and he was determined to do everything in his power to make it happen.
As he approach the castle a young ferret his age approach him. “I’ve never seen a rabbit out here before.”
Edwin paused, took a moment to appraise the young ferret, then replied, "And I've never seen a young ferret like you out here, either."
The ferret's eyes widened with surprise, then narrowed with curiosity. "Why are you here?"
Edwin hesitated for a moment, unsure of how much to reveal to this stranger. But then he remembered Prince Ferdinand's words, and his determination to fight for freedom. He sighed, and spoke openly. "I'm here to fulfill a promise. I'm trying to free my family from slavery."
The ferret nodded solemnly. “My family haven’t owned slaves in awhile.”
"I see," Edwin said, his heart heavy with the weight of his mission. "May I ask why your family doesn't own slaves anymore?"
The young ferret hesitated, but then said, "My parents believe that all animals should be free, and they've taught me the same. We've been working to free those still in captivity and help them rebuild their lives."
Edwin's eyes widened with surprise and hope. "That's incredible," he said. "I've never met anyone like that before. Perhaps there are more people like you out there, who believe in freedom and equality for all."
The ferret smiled, a spark of determination in his eyes. "There are, but most nobles still vote to keep you in chains.”
Edwin's heart sank at the mention of the nobles' influence. "That's disheartening, but I won't give up hope," he said, his voice firm. "If there are people like you, there must be more who share our ideals. We just need to find them and join forces."
The ferret nodded in agreement. "It won't be easy, but it's worth fighting for. Maybe together, we can bring about real change."
Edwin's gaze drifted back to the castle, now seeming even more imposing than before. "We'll have to proceed with caution," he said. "I need to get to the Skycross family and convince them to help me free my siblings."
The ferret's eyes widened with excitement. "I'd be glad to help," he offered. "My name's Alex Skycross.”
Alex continued. “It’s not necessary to give up your name but you might do more under Edwin Skycross then Edwin Brown.”
Edwin raised an eyebrow, unable to fully comprehend Alex's words. "But why would that help?" he asked, hesitant to make any rash decisions.
Alex shook his head, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Because, Edwin Brown, you might be a common rabbit, but under the name Edwin Skycross... you'll be nobility. A member of one of the most powerful families in the land. We can use that to our advantage, as nobody would dare to oppose the Skycross family."
Edwin considered Alex's words, weighing the potential benefits and risks. "Very well," he said finally, a hint of determination in his voice. "Edwin Skycross it is."
With that, they set off towards the castle, their hearts beating with anticipation and hope. As they approached the grand gates, Edwin couldn't help but wonder what lay in store for him and the doors open.
“Upstairs is the bath and judging from the smell. I doubt you’ve seen water in larger quantities then a cup.”
As they entered the castle, Alex led Edwin through the grand halls and up the winding staircases, pointing out the various rooms and chambers. Despite the opulence around them, Edwin couldn't shake the feeling that they were surrounded by the very same oppression he was fighting against.
They eventually reached the top of the stairs, where a large wooden door stood before them. Alex opened the door. “Here is bathroom.” He said. Edwin looked at the soaps and oils. “How much is this?” Edwin asked. “The bars of soap are of very high quality.” “Most nobles would shot a bullet through your skull for just looking at them.” Alex replied.
Edwin's eyes widened at the audacity of Alex's comment. "But... why would they do that?" he asked, genuinely confused.
Alex chuckled darkly. "Because, Edwin, soap is a luxury that only the nobles can afford, and they will do anything to maintain their status. They would rather see commoners suffer and die than share the comforts they have taken for granted."
Edwin shook his head, trying to understand the twisted logic of the oppressors. "But surely there must be some who see reason," he said. "Some who understand that everyone deserves a chance to live a clean and healthy life."
Alex looked at him sadly. "I wish I could say that, Edwin, but the truth is, the nobles are consumed by their own greed and self-interest. They see themselves as superior to everyone else, and they will do anything to maintain their power and control."
“You can’t reproduce the soap with magic?” Edwin asked.
Alex shook his head, a grim look on his face. "Magic has limits, Edwin. It can't create matter out of thin air. Soap is made from oils and alkalis, and without the means to produce these components, the soap you see here is an out-of-reach luxury for most."
Edwin's heart sank at the realization that even magic had its limitations in this world of oppression. But he quickly steeled himself, reminding himself of his mission and the hope that still burned within him.
"We'll have to find a way to change their minds," he said, determination in his voice. "There must be a way to show them that it's in their best interest to treat everyone fairly and justly."
Alex nodded, his eyes narrowing in thought. "Indeed, Edwin. One thing that the nobles fear most is losing their power and control. Edwin nodded with agreement.
The two trained together, honing their combat skills. As they practiced, Alex shared with Edwin stories of previous rebellions and uprisings, each one ending in failure and suffering. He warned Edwin of the dangers they would face and urged him to be cautious and strategic in his approach.
"The nobles are ruthless," Alex said, his voice low and serious. "They will stop at nothing to maintain their power. We must be prepared for anything."
Edwin nodded solemnly, his determination unwavering. "I understand the risks, but we cannot give up on our mission," he said. "We must free my family and all those who suffer under the nobles' oppression."
As they continued their training, Edwin couldn't help but feel a growing sense of kinship with Alex. Despite their different backgrounds, they shared a common goal and a desire to make the world a better place.
As the years went by a powerful dragon showed up, looking for Edwin. “Time is broken or will be broken and I need you to help a ferret named Kelvin. He is in a world without magic but his world is so technologically advanced you’d swear an ancient god blessed it with divine power.” She said
Edwin looked at Alex, who was listening intently to the dragon's words. "This... this Kelvin, what does he need me to do?" Edwin asked, feeling a strange mixture of fear and excitement.
The dragon eyed him, her scales shimmering in the dim light. “You must train him and prepare him to fight powerful and evil foes.” If Kelvin is successful then the rebellion two thousand years ago will succeed and Alex will be brought up in a world of equality and wealth, rather then oppression and luxury.
Alex could sense the weight of the words as they hung in the air between them.
“You mean that the success of Kelvin's mission is directly linked to the struggle for justice and equality we've been fighting for all these years?”
The dragon nodded solemnly. “Indeed, Alex. Time is a tricky and unpredictable force, and the intervention of powerful beings like myself isn't without risk. But with Edwin’s guidance and Kelvin’s determination, I believe success is within our grasp. Edwin, your role in training Kelvin is crucial. I know you won’t let me down.”
Edwin met the dragon's gaze, feeling the weight of responsibility on his shoulders. Then, turning to Alex, with a resolve born of years of struggle and hope, he said, “We’ve fought long and hard for this cause, and our efforts are not in vain. With Kelvin under my tutelage, we will ensure that justice prevails.”
As the dragon began to outline the details of the mission, Edwin and Alex listened intently, their minds already racing with the possibilities and challenges that lay ahead. Edwin knew that the path to success would be fraught with danger and sacrifice, but as Kelvin's trainer, he was ready to face it all. His commitment to Kelvin's development and to the cause of justice was unwavering.
The dragon then focused on Alex. “Bring lots of gold,” she advised solemnly. “In the world you will navigate, wealth is a powerful tool and a status symbol.”
Edwin and Alex looked at each other, their hearts pounding with anticipation and a newfound sense of purpose. They knew that the journey ahead would be fraught with danger, but they were ready to face it all for the sake of a world where everyone was truly equal.
With that, they stepped through the portal, leaving the grand castle and its oppressive atmosphere behind. As they emerged on the other side, they found themselves in a completely different world, one that was unlike anything they had ever seen before.
Edwin and Alex secretly and carefully looked at the gold they had. “The dragon wanted us to bring this but why?” Alex said. Edwin responded. “Perhaps, gold is valuable even when you have to the power to make art move.”
As they ventured deeper into this unfamiliar world, Edwin and Alex found themselves enveloped in a landscape brimming with wonder. Everywhere they looked, there were signs of harmony that Edwin had never dared imagine possible. Predators and prey, those age-old adversaries, mingled freely, their interactions marked by an ease and camaraderie that stood in stark contrast to the brutal hierarchies Edwin had known.
Witnessing a group of rabbits and chickens playing alongside creatures that, in his world, would have regarded them as nothing more than prey or pawns in cruel games, Edwin felt a mix of awe and disbelief.
"Does slavery not exist here?" Edwin pondered aloud, his eyes tracking the joyful assemblies with a blend of curiosity and a hint of skepticism. In his heart, memories of a darker time, when such gatherings could only signify the ominous play of predator over prey, stirred uneasily.
Yet, as he observed more closely, searching for any sign of coercion or fear among those gathered, he found none. There was an authenticity in their laughter, a genuine freedom in their movements that slowly began to erode his doubts. It seemed, at least to the extent of his observations, that this world was indeed free from the yoke of slavery and oppression that had so deeply marked his own.
"This is... different," Alex remarked, noting the thoughtful expression on Edwin's face. "It's like the very fabric of society here is woven from different threads, ones that reject the notion of dominion over one another."
Edwin nodded, the revelation slowly settling in. "I never thought such a place could exist—a world where everyone, regardless of strength or cunning, lives free from fear of subjugation."
As they continued their journey, the sights and sounds of this free society served as a balm to Edwin's scarred psyche. With each passing moment, the heavy cloak of his past seemed to lighten, offering glimpses of a reality he had once believed to be beyond reach. Here, in this place of peace and equality, Edwin found a spark of hope, not just for the world around him, but for the very essence of what it meant to be free.
Edwin's gaze was caught by a flickering screen displaying arrays of numbers and charts, a stark contrast to the natural harmony that had characterized much of their journey thus far. “What’s this?” he asked, his curiosity piqued by the unfamiliar sight.
Alex, equally puzzled, had no answers to offer. Their attention turned to a rabbit passing by, whom Alex quickly engaged in conversation. “Sorry, good sir, but what is this?” he inquired, gesturing towards the screen.
The rabbit paused, eyeing the screen before turning back to Edwin and Alex with a look of mild surprise. “This is the stock market,” he explained, noting their intrigued expressions.
Edwin leaned in closer, absorbed by the concept. “Can you give any details about it?” he pressed, eager to understand.
“The stock market is a business market but instead of buying goods and services, you are buying fractions of companies or businesses,” the rabbit began, his tone carrying a hint of caution. “It’s a good way to become rich, unfortunately, people use and abuse others to make themselves richer while impoverishing others. I guess the government believes that you know all the risks or something, but it’s not right to earn a fortune while making others poor.”
The rabbit's words lingered in the air, casting a shadow over Edwin's initial fascination. The revelation that even in a world free from the chains of physical enslavement, other forms of exploitation still thrived, was disheartening. It was a reminder that the pursuit of justice and equality was multifaceted, extending beyond the liberation of the body to the liberation of economic systems and the eradication of poverty.
As the rabbit excused himself and continued on his way, Edwin and Alex were left to ponder the complexities of this new society. It was clear that the fight for a truly free and equitable world was far from over. The stock market, with its potential for both wealth creation and exploitation, symbolized the ongoing struggle to balance individual ambition with collective well-being.
Alex reflected on the rabbit’s words. "Interesting. So, it seems that even in this world with such advanced technology and seemingly perfect harmony, there are still flaws and injustices that need to be addressed."
Edwin nodded, his gaze still on the screen. "Indeed. But perhaps, if we can help Kelvin succeed in his mission, we can also bring about change in this world."
Alex sighed, his mind reeling with the possibilities and the weight of their mission. "We must be careful, Edwin. This world is vastly different from ours, and we can't simply assume that our methods will work here. We must learn from the people around us and adapt our strategies accordingly."
With that, Edwin and Alex set out to explore the world they had been brought to, determined to learn as much as they could about this world.
Within the grand walls of the Ketill Public Library, Edwin and Alex found themselves surrounded by the tangible weight of knowledge. The opulence of the building and the vast collection of books it housed were a testament to the advanced state of this world—a stark contrast to anything they had known.
“I can’t believe how advanced this world is,” Alex said, a sense of wonder threading through his words. “I wonder if we’ll ever see such progress back home.”
As they ventured deeper into the library, their quest for understanding led them to the librarian. “We want to learn about the world, can you help?” Edwin asked, his curiosity piqued by everything around them.
“The computers are over there,” the librarian, a female rabbit with an air of quiet competence, directed them towards a small room. The term ‘computers’ was unfamiliar, yet it promised answers they sought.
Stepping into the room, Edwin and Alex were confronted with machines unlike any they had encountered—devices with screens that glowed with static images and keyboards dotted with myriad buttons. Hesitantly, they approached, their intrigue mingling with confusion. Edwin reached out to touch the screen, but nothing happened. They exchanged puzzled looks until the librarian, observing their struggle, stepped in to guide them. “Here, let me show you,” she said, demonstrating how to wake the computer from its slumber. With a few clicks and the tapping of keys, a world of information flickered to life on the screen.
The librarian taught them the basics—how to use a mouse, what the keyboard was for, and how to navigate the web. Each action was foreign, yet they listened intently, absorbing her instructions. As they began to explore on their own, the initial awkwardness of interacting with the mouse and keyboard gave way to a sense of discovery.
Pages of information, from the history of this world to its scientific advancements, unfolded before them. What started as a challenge soon became an engrossing journey through digital realms they had never imagined. The computer, once a source of befuddlement, became a bridge to understanding this advanced society.
Alex, his curiosity piqued, leaned closer to the screen, a sense of wonder in his eyes. "Remarkable. Can we access information on anything?"
The librarian, a knowledgeable guide in this realm of digital archives, affirmed with a nod. "Certainly. You can search for any topic you like. Just type your question or topic into the search bar, and the computer will provide you with relevant information."
Encouraged, Edwin took the initiative, his fingers hesitantly dancing over the keys before typing in "history of the world." The computer, a silent sentinel of knowledge, hummed softly as it processed the query. Moments later, the screen was awash with entries, each a doorway to different epochs and events that had shaped this world.
As Edwin and Alex delved into the histories displayed before them, a familiar narrative unfolded—a tale of struggle, sacrifice, and the ceaseless fight for equality and freedom. It was a mirror to their own world's tumultuous journey, reflecting the universal themes of resistance against oppression and the quest for a just society.
The revelation that this advanced world had once grappled with issues similar to their own was both surprising and disheartening. Yet, it also imbued their mission with a deeper sense of purpose. It wasn't just about aiding Kelvin anymore; it was about absorbing the lessons of this world, understanding the paths taken by those who had fought similar battles, and envisioning how those strategies could be applied to their own fight for freedom and equality.
"This is more than just a mission," Edwin said quietly, the weight of their discovery settling in. "It's a learning journey. Perhaps, by understanding how this world overcame its struggles, we can find new ways to address our own."
Alex nodded in agreement, his gaze still fixed on the screen. "We're not alone in our fight," he added. "There's wisdom to be gained from the successes and failures of others. Let's make sure we take as much of it back with us as we can."
Edwin's journey of discovery at the Ketill Public Library continues to unveil the complexities of this new world, painting a picture of progress intertwined with persistent societal issues. The learning about the stock market serves as another point of reflection for Edwin and Alex, underscoring the nuanced realities of economic systems and their impact on society.
Edwin's curiosity led him next to type "Stock Market" into the search bar, the gentle clack of keys breaking the library's hushed atmosphere. The search yielded numerous results, but one article, in particular, caught his eye: "The History and Evolution of the Stock Market". Together, they delved into the article, absorbing its contents.
The stock market, as they discovered, had been both a boon and a bane for this world. It spurred unparalleled growth and innovation, transforming the economic landscape. Yet, it also deepened the chasm between the affluent and the impoverished, echoing the disparities that Edwin and Alex were all too familiar with. The article spoke of reformers and visionaries who had recognized these faults and had embarked on a quest to rectify them, striving to ensure a fairer distribution of wealth and opportunities.
This narrative was both inspiring and sobering. "Obviously, this is not a perfect world," Edwin mused, his voice tinged with a mix of admiration and melancholy. Alex nodded in agreement, the stories of reform resonating deeply with their own desires for justice back home.
As they contemplated these revelations, Edwin noticed a fox and a rabbit nearby, introducing an entirely different aspect of this world's society. Kit Zoro, a fox, was engrossed in videos, while his boyfriend, Demi Star, a rabbit, was focused on job applications. The ease and openness of their relationship, transcending species boundaries and societal prejudices, struck a chord with Edwin.
A pang of jealousy surged through him, not borne of malice, but from a longing for the freedom to love without fear or restriction—a freedom still contested in his own world. The sight of Kit and Demi, so engrossed in their tasks yet together, was a poignant reminder of what they were fighting for: a world where love, in all its forms, was celebrated and protected.
"This world... it's full of contradictions," Alex whispered, following Edwin's gaze. "But it's also full of hope. Maybe, just maybe, the struggles here can teach us something valuable."
Edwin nodded, his eyes still on Kit and Demi. It was a bittersweet realization that progress was never linear and that each world had its own battles. Yet, witnessing the love between Kit and Demi, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. Their mission wasn't just about resistance or reform; it was about building a world where love and companionship could thrive without bounds.
Edwin's search led him down a path filled with promise and peril, echoing the complexities of the stock market. The article titled “Ten stocks to buy now” seemed to be a beacon, offering guidance in the murky waters of financial investments. Yet, Edwin's instincts urged caution, a sentiment that resonated deeply with their earlier discussions on the dual nature of such economic mechanisms.
“Is this one of those scams the rabbit warned us about?” Edwin couldn't help but question, the rabbit's words about exploitation and disparity echoing in his mind.
Alex, ever the voice of reason, provided a balanced perspective. "I don't think so, Edwin. This seems to be a legitimate article providing information on potential high-performing stocks. But we should be cautious and not blindly follow these recommendations."
Edwin's skepticism was a shield, forged from experiences in a world where promises of quick wealth often led to ruin. “If it’s too good to be true, it usually is,” he remarked, a proverb that had held true across worlds and times.
Alex agreed, recognizing the value of caution. "That's a good rule of thumb, Edwin. We should always question things and not be swayed by the promise of easy riches."
Their exploration of the stock market became a microcosm of their larger journey, a day spent unraveling the economic fabric of this new world. They sifted through article after article, each piece of information adding layers to their understanding of how societies functioned here—how wealth was created, shared, and sometimes hoarded.
As the library's lights dimmed, signaling the end of the day, Edwin and Alex gathered their findings and prepared to leave. The information they had uncovered was a treasure trove, but it was the insights gained from critical thinking and questioning that were truly invaluable.
"We have a lot to learn, Edwin," Alex mused, a sense of camaraderie in the shared quest for knowledge. "But we also have the opportunity to make a real difference in both of our worlds. We just need to be patient and wise in our decisions."
Their day at the library, immersed in the world of stocks and economic theories, was more than an educational endeavor; it was a reaffirmation of their mission. They weren't just seeking to change their own world; they were learning how to build it better, informed by the successes and failures of this one.
As they left Edwin looked at Kit. “How do we invest in stocks?” Kit replied “You have to apply to a broker.” Edwin frowned “I’ve tried that but they keep asking for ID and SSN, I don’t know what those are.” Kit puzzled then said “You’d have to get the government to give you those. Maybe a courthouse could help but I’m not sure how to solve that issue since I was born here.”
Alex nodded thoughtfully. "It seems we've encountered another obstacle in our quest for knowledge. But fear not, Edwin. We will find a solution to this problem as well."
With that, they left the library and continued their journey through this strange and fascinating world, determined to learn as much as they could and to use their newfound knowledge to help Kelvin and the people of both worlds.
Fifteen years had woven complexity, success, and deep connections into the fabric of Edwin and Alex's lives in their adopted country. Celebrated as pioneers of change, they had ascended to a status beyond their wildest imaginings, becoming living symbols of progress and hope. Among those who stood by them through this meteoric rise was Kit Zoro, whose friendship with Edwin had grown from a chance encounter into a bond as steadfast as it was profound.
A particular day found Edwin seeking the company of Kit and his partner, Demi Star, for a conversation that weighed heavily on his heart. This wasn't merely a casual catch-up but a moment poised to peel back the layers of perception and reveal the raw, unvarnished truth.
With Kit and Demi seated before him, Edwin ventured into the vulnerability beneath his heroic veneer. "Would you say I'm a hero, glorious and brave, if I told you something you might not believe? That sometimes I'm scared. That I make mistakes. That perhaps I'm not the hero everyone sees.”
His words, more than a confession, were an invitation to see the man behind the myth, to acknowledge the insecurities and doubts that danced in the shadows of his accomplishments.
“But if day can turn to night, and darkness can yield to light, then why can't we imagine that a timeline can change?” Edwin mused, his voice a blend of hope and contemplation. This wasn't just rhetoric but a reflection of his belief in the potential for transformation, for shifts in the very essence of what seems predetermined.
Kit's eyes widened as Edwin spoke, the weight of his words settling in. "What do you mean, Edwin? Are you saying that we can change the course of history?"
Edwin nodded, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "It's not easy, Kit. But it's possible. We've learned so much about this world and its history, and we've seen how people have fought for change. Perhaps we can do the same in our own world."
As they sat there, deep in thought, a newfound determination grew within them. Edwin and Alex realized that their mission was not just about helping Kelvin, but about creating a better future for themselves and everyone else in their world.
Edwin told Kit everything. Kit responded “You’re telling me that you were born into slavery on another world, killed two guards for your freedom, befriended Alex a noble, and got teleported to find a ferret named Kelvin who you never met or seen?”
"Yes," Edwin said, a hint of pride in his voice despite the surprising nature of his story. "It's been quite a journey, but I'm determined to make a difference in both worlds."
Kit looked at Demi, who was sitting quietly beside him, listening to the story. "I believe in you, Edwin," Kit said with conviction. "You and Alex have already shown the courage and determination needed to bring about change, and I have faith that you can continue to do so."
“How does a bunch of primitives that can’t afford soap became so rich and respected?” Kit asked.
Alex chuckled. "I believe it's not about wealth or status, Kit. It's about the impact we make and the lives we touch. We've been able to build trust and earn respect by helping others and fighting for what's right. Our power doesn't come from our possessions, but from our actions and commitment to making a difference."
“I take it, you were upset that despite our world being richer and better then your world, people still don’t care about the poor and homeless.” Kit said.
Edwin and Alex exchanged glances, acknowledging the truth in Kit's observation. "You're right, Kit," Edwin said. "It's disheartening to see a world with so much wealth and opportunity, yet many still struggle. But that's why our mission is even more crucial. We need to learn from the experiences of this world and apply those lessons to ours."
Alex nodded in agreement. "We can use the knowledge we've gained to make a positive change in our own world. By advocating for equality and fairness, we can start to bridge the gaps between the haves and have-nots."
“Isn’t must of your problems the government wanting to keep rabbits and chickens slaves, while only enriching themselves. How will you solve that?” Demi asked.
Edwin and Alex shared a look, knowing that this was a complex issue that would require careful planning and strategic action. They all knew the reality of their world and the power dynamics that had kept the poor and oppressed in chains for so long.
"It's not going to be easy," Edwin admitted. "But we have to start by raising awareness about the injustices that are happening. We need to educate and empower the people, so they can demand change from the government."
Alex added, "We also need to build alliances with those who share our values and vision for a fairer society. Forming a strong coalition of like-minded individuals can help us achieve our goals."
Kit and Demi listened intently, their eyes filled with hope and determination.
Months later Edwin learns of the time-traveling ferret and meets Kelvin for the first. The rest is in the “Replaced” series.
