Pilot Manifest: The Source of all Things

by Tekla, Lucien

  It seems we’ve discovered an enduring way to live. If once it were ever so that countries would survive, and people could have a similar respect for life and community the way it is here, then there would be no need for bombs, killing and burning down of forests, humans and deer. It could be so one day, once the corrupt are removed. When the warmongering men are destroyed, the world could live in peace.

  — 55

  The world found us during breakfast today. Our young life so new and racing to a fine start in our isolation has been confronted by the unknown. Ironic. The turmoil brought a sudden and great uncertainty as the specter of war appeared in the sky.

  It was the arrival of a captain and his men. They landed their helicopters on the beach. I held fire, as I was vaguely familiar with the variation of the American icon displayed on the aircraft. I didn’t feel threatened by the menacing presence. If anything, it was awe that I felt when seeing the loud and well-armed aircraft. Our humble defenses were insignificant compared to their might. If a fire fight had ensued the outcome would not have been in our best interest.

  Yes, the infinite unknown has arrived. Captain Mitchell is the name of the man that led it to us. We’ve spent the last couple hours in conversation. And I’m pleased to say that he seemed respectful, reasonable, and intelligent—as you would imagine an officer or competent pilot to be.

  He said it will be difficult for us to comprehend the destruction and death on the mainland, and we were lucky to be stranded, ironically.

  There was no irony for me, I told the captain: we were lucky to be stranded.

  He asked if we experienced any effects or knew of any lasting radiation. I didn’t think so, I told him. They feared radioactive storms had rained on this area. There was minimal evidence of it.

  He was amazed by the Stallion crash site and impressed with the fortifications we have maintained. His amazement was ongoing in respect to my utilizing the deceased in such a strategic way. Be assured sir—he called me—that we’re here for you now, and the enormity of your task will be recognized. He asked the name of the island, and I told him that it was unclear.

  The competent and friendly young captain is over on the radio with his commander, discussing our conversation. He’s calling me over.

  —After confirming with his superior, he was privileged to officially recognize our noble efforts and honorable patriotism in such dire circumstances. He expressed how it was brave to fly our US Flag, being alone like this without knowing the dangers that we could face at any moment—meaning the savage enemy. I’m honored, I told the captain after hearing his kind words.

  And finally, he said it had been decided, in recognition of such patriotism and valor in securing the island for the country, that I should rightfully give a new name to it. Furthermore, as a primary recognition of my achievement here, it has been deemed to be my rightful property, granted to me by the state, ownership of this entire island, from this day forward.

  Captain Mitchell continued by communicating the understanding that our faithful allegiance to the State will be steadfast. Of course, always, it will be, I told him. I must admit being still in some sort of shock at the time, at everything going on.

  Then, he presented us with a new flag to fly on our tower on the hill. It’s a standard matching the band on the sleeve of his uniform, a design to signify the resurrection of USA, he told me, from the burnt ground. Yes, I can picture it. And he told of the deception created when invasion forces displayed our American Flag—a standard that will forever be honored even if we carry a new flag in the field.

  Captain Mitchell enjoyed explaining that the American patriot militias were true heroes working with the military in defeating the invaders. Unfortunately, many states were devastated and a new government will be required. Indeed it was forming already. We are the USA, and always will be, though, the initialism is undergoing a transformation that will herald the refined existence emerging from this revolutionary conflict—in victory. Discussion is ongoing, said the captain, and there is minimal dissent. Essentially, the resurrected country will require and deserve a new representation. The proposition will prevail and we will become the USSA: the Unified Sovereign State of America. We will be one state, Sovereign.

  It is indeed an exciting time, the young Captain Mitchell has so much to communicate to me—much he had noted in conversation with his commander—that he read to me. He went on to inform me of a responsibility assumed with the grant of land ownership which stipulates that, at some time in the next few months, ground breaking for a military outpost will begin. Of course my suggestions for the location of the outpost would be considered and respected. And I should expect the arrival of a few citizens and military police to help with the reconstruction as we establish a thriving population for this territory, under the protection of the Sovereign State. He relayed ideas about shipments and security—and so on.

  As he relayed the instructions his enthusiasm waned. His words became monotone, his eyes listless. Where once his excitement for the resurrection brewed, he fell into solemn recitation as if speaking the words of a brainwashed pledge. His oncoming lackluster offended me, though I did not say.

  Another adverse reaction developed within me upon hearing the terms. It originated as I considered the release of ownership of the island to me. This island is a community. I have developed it, though I have no claim or want of ownership over it. It became clear that no such concession should be made to any true American Patriot.

  I expressed this conclusion by stating that I would accept a share in ownership, as a partner, or steward, of the state, equal to every resident. It should be that a person such as myself, in this formative time—or any time in the future—would be fortunate to share in the responsibility of ownership as a part of their allegiance as a citizen committed to the greatness and prosperity of his or her country. For only then, would it be possible for an individual to honestly contribute to such an ideal. In fact with a dedication such as this, an entire country is gained by each individual—and each individual would be inspired by her country. Then true greatness and prosperity would emerge.

  Energy built as I spoke these ideas with conviction. The captain was impressed, even invigorated—his spirit returned at the sound of my words. He found revelation and pride in this honorable perspective, and comfort in such pride. He promised to share my view with his commander—who he described as the leader of the group of structuralists working on the framework of our government. I sensed a returned inspiration in the young man’s eyes and voice as he spoke of pride and honor, and I knew that the message would be delivered in the same way.

  He again spoke of his commander’s place in the reformation group, saying he, with reluctance, had accepted the leadership role. His commander will want to hear more of my ideas. These ideas, I explained to the captain, are integral to the continued progress toward prosperity and peace of our beloved community, and I would be honored if they were relayed as such.

  And they were off. The world has found us, the new Sovereign State is closing in to save us, said McKenna. I told him that it will require as much salvation from us, from every citizen equally, if we’re ever to know a world as we envision it. And, yes, we should welcome the opportunity to serve and strive for this ideal.

  — 56

  I realize these last entries are no longer documenting the plight of a desolate abandon as experienced by the leader of lost souls and skeletons. For this isolated existence has finally been discovered, thankfully, by our own countrymen.

  Not only will I welcome the rise of a new world, it is my ambition to persevere, maneuver and ascend the newly forming political ranks. I’ll face anticipated challenges with conscious determination and confidence, knowing that I’ve subdued death.

  I’ve joined the discussion by way of radio. I say with humility that I will prove to be an influential Statesman. These new structuralists welcome my interaction and appreciate the influence of a powerful vision. The vision is forming as f
oreseen in the salvaged words of Kagan, our dead prophet: a new way will rise—

  From the ashes rise again, out of chaos, out of zen, a firestorm of shining swords in sunrise setting ancient stars. It’s a new day around here. In a field of flowers stands the crimson hero.

  Within clear waters voices echo: consider us, consider all we know, consider a glance back on the walk into the inferno.

  In memory, until another time,

  Thomas Copeland Miller, King of the Dead

  PART TWO

  The Return

  A year has nearly passed since the last entry, that farewell of sorts. At first I hated the idea of adding anything further to this pilot manifest. Once our ill-fated flight that found us lost in desolation met a beautifully unimaginable fruition, it seemed a sufficient place to end the record. I must say though, sanctuary in these pages is so treasured I felt nowhere else would be as fitting, welcoming, or otherwise adequate for documenting the evolutionary saga of our island realm: from desolation in frost to vigor and life seen in conjunction with the triumphant reformation of our beloved country.

  In the time since our estrangement with civilization was reconciled, our fate has in fact revealed a bright hope, so bright, and proves to be integral to the reemergence of the country. Indeed, our example is helping to rekindle glory for humanity.

  So today, to honor the historic greatness of the nearing arrival of the State Supreme Minister to our springtime island, I have decided to reinstate the pilot manifest to its proper place as my trusted record book.

  — 2

  It should be noted that progress is being made in the aftermath of the most contested days of war. And even with some peripheral fighting, we are already witness to an internal revitalization of the country. From the razed is born a new eagle.

  Some precursory events should be documented. New leaders have formed a functioning model of government. Which, I am honored to say, includes a considerable personal contribution. I have assisted via extensive correspondence with the aforementioned State Supreme Minister—he, being the commander in charge of the operation that found us, who has since been elevated to that eminent rank. Many of the ideas I introduced in our ongoing communications originated in solitary contemplation often inspired by Kagan’s words, and were developed in conversations with my perceptive skeletons, particularly Copeland. I will say that the spirit emboldened by this experience has been recognized and received with great admiration and humble consideration in the evolution of the new ideology.

  As mentioned before, I received a generous promotion. It was deemed that an Island Commander would also have political weight. Added to my responsibility for decisions and ongoing proceedings here, I also have a voice in greater political discussions. As stated previously, this was an ambition of mine. And, to my sincere delight, the sentiment was echoed by the mainland leaders—at the Supreme Minister’s recommendation.

  To my absolute satisfaction, I have accepted the majestic position of Minister of State. Scope of such an office goes well beyond the goings-on around here. And, of course, I retain my rank as Commander. In fact, we have discussed options for instances of shared military and political rank. In my case, for example, a title such as Command Minister, State Commander, or Commander of State could at some time be created. Nothing is decided as of yet.

  — 3

  I began documenting this return while at my station in the Great Chamber. We were taking an introspective rest from the review of a difficult situation that I hoped could be resolved before the Supreme Minister arrived. At that time of introspection, I considered how slight infractions affect greater spheres of reality. I began to think in terms of society and country.

  There was time before the arrival of the Supreme Minister so I began by documenting that important anticipation. Still, we have time yet for a cup of coffee and so time to continue with the Chamber’s analysis.

  We were tasked with reducing the action of the situation to its core psychology of intentions. We needed to know the essence of a crime. The picture gained clarity with scrutiny.

  Background, Infraction, and Detention:

  Two months ago, one of our guards, who was a sentry at the time, had thoughts involving an attractive young woman who works on our farm. He made his intentions known in the form of a petition filed with this chamber seeking permission to pursue his attraction. He was under no legal obligation to make such a request, of course. Yet, that displayed an unprecedented honor of place within the community.

  I expressed my approval of his petitioning and encouraged him to respectfully approach the young woman. I would expect nothing contrary after such a formal petition. The sentry proved his honor and she received him well. They have been courting each other ever since.

  Recently, we received a small group of transplants from the mainland who were eager to make their way into the community. Most did so appropriately. Naturally, a young man in the group also had discovered his attraction for the same young and beautiful farm girl. He was correct to feel that he also was worthy to seek the attention of the girl. That wasn’t the issue. The issue was his tact.

  The problem manifested last night when the paths of the two men crossed. Both were waiting for the farm girl to arrive at our public house. When the girl appeared and joined our sentry at his table, the newcomer went to her and attempted to lure her away.

  There was still no crime in this. Not until the newcomer began to show aggression toward our sentry did things turn in an intolerable way. When the insults escalated to hostility, the physical confrontation forced the sentry to defend himself. It was then that a serious crime had been committed.

  It should be stated that only the newcomer required to be restrained. The sentry had no intention to continue the conflict, as was evident in his attempt to reason with the enraged man.

  — We received word that the Supreme Minister is soon to arrive, within 30 minutes. I’m confident that our analysis has revealed the proper course of action. I look forward to including the Supreme Minister in the final verdict. We’ll be heading to the overwatch momentarily.

  — The formation of lights appears in the fog. We are well prepared to receive our guests. Today is historic, indeed.

  Yes, Copeland, they’re landing. I’m heading down to greet them. The guard will return you to your seat at the lodge.

  — 4

  We sipped scotch on the ride back. The Supreme Minister talked a little about their flight then moved to political discussion. He recalled things I had said in radio conversations and admired the unrelenting functionality of our miniature government. He praised our success and said he looked forward to observing the internal workings in person.

  I was humbled. I figured we should go straight to the chamber to continue our dialog as soon as we arrived at the lodge.

  We walked in directly, each with a small glass of whisky in hand and the bottle in tow. The room absorbed all our sound. In silence the vision appeared to the Supreme Minister as he surveyed our skeleton chamber. He walked over to the table and stood in front of Copeland. I drank scotch. He stared at Copeland for a full minute before motioning me over. Our gaze was fixed upon the great skeleton minister, one point in the triangle formed between us. The Supreme Minister wanted to hear more, everything.

  I described the formation of the chamber. That it’s assembled by my trusted associates and colleagues, the ones that I depend on, that I trust to hold an unwavering representation of the values that are most important to our survival.

  Copeland is a natural born skeleton leader with a mind capable of great complexities, I explained. And so his place in the chamber is there, at my side. All the other skeletons are viewed as equally qualified to represent well the ideas designated to them.

  Of course it’s irrelevant, the Supreme Minister decisively agreed, that these representatives are in fact skeletons. We honor them, after all, we concurred. They possess an ideal existence: No heart to dilute function—or devotion—to purpose, posi
tion. Without question skeleton devotion is unparalleled. A resource such as this should be recognized and utilized. Equally admirable is a skeleton’s uncanny ability to remain steadfast in conviction. Which is, at times, questionable in the character of their fleshy counterparts—who will need to emulate this standard of heart before joining these skeleton ranks. It is a hope.

  It is simple. We know peace. We have structure and discipline. We have a true commitment, a great love for the Sovereign State, and for our community. We would die in defense of it.

  It was important to pause so the words, we would die in defense of it, could settle upon the intellect.

  We honor with true reverence those who have already died for our cause. An important notion is to recognize that we also will kill in defense of it.

  We will be taking a scenic drive, keeping the defense of peace in mind on the way.

  — 5

  Our caravan arrived at the towers. The ocean captivated us, and the new State standard flew in the wind above. It was a proud moment, absolutely.

  The monochrome ocean cast aqueous veils across the sentinel rocks.

  I resumed our previous conversation by admitting to the Supreme Minister to having a motive for being at the cliff that included a bit more than enjoying the view. The additional intention was to invite you to participate in the case that was being discussed in our chamber this morning prior to your arrival, I explained. I wanted to illustrate the extent of my aspiration of defending the essence of peace and community.

  As you know, we have a well established state guard police force. They know and interact with our small community of transplant residents. They are in fact transplants themselves. I can say with confidence that they have successfully melded into the fabric of community and government. One of our young sentries—we have sentries and patrolmen—had thoughts involving an attractive young woman, one working on the farm.