Chapter 233 Arising Concerns in the Camp
Meanwhile, at two o'clock in the afternoon, the councilors of the New Clark City Camp convened for a secret meeting in the office of Maria Santos, a leader among the original camp residents. The air was tense with concern and unease.
"Ma'am Santos," one of the councilors began, "the presence of Blackwatch is increasingly encroaching on our way of life. Each afternoon, we're startled by the loud sounds of missiles firing from their base. General Peralta made attempts to communicate with Blackwatch, seeking explanations, but they were dismissively turned away. This lack of transparency is unsettling."
Another councilor chimed in, highlighting a more pressing issue. "There's growing discrimination within the camp. Original residents are being denied basic services. Some Blackwatch survivors openly suggest that we should dissolve our council and fully let their commander-in-chief, Richard Gonzales. It's creating a divide and fostering resentment among the people."
This two-party system within New Clark City had become a significant source of tension. On one side was Blackwatch, an organized military group with advanced weaponry and strategic capabilities, responsible for protecting civilians and maintaining order. On the other were the original camp residents, survivors who had banded together, and the original settlers of the camp, who were responsible for civil management and community welfare.
Yet even with that clear line, the Blackwatch citizens were still treating the original residents with a sense of superiority, calling for one leadership, that is Richard Gonzales.
"Could it be that it's the work of the Blackwatch themselves? Getting the people to agree on the political system where the Blackwatch governs and protects?"
"What's the matter if the Blackwatch leads the camp or not? The important thing is that we are being protected by their military. They have advanced weapons, helicopters, tanks, heck even large airplanes! This is not the old world anymore where civilians often have the final say. The new world demands strength and security, which Blackwatch provides," argued another councilor, trying to present a different perspective. "And to think about it, it's only the civilians of Blackwatch treating our people wrong, not the soldiers themselves. Is there a case of that happening?"
The room fell silent as the councilors pondered the question. One of them, an older man with a thoughtful expression, spoke up. "I've noticed that too. It's mainly the civilians aligned with Blackwatch who are causing issues. The soldiers themselves have been professional and focused solely on security and defense matters. There haven't been any reports of misconduct from their military personnel towards our people."
Maria nodded, taking in the observation. "That's an important distinction. It seems the issue is not with Blackwatch as an organization, but with certain civilians under their protection who are instigating these tensions."
A younger councilor added, "Perhaps these civilians feel empowered by their association with Blackwatch and are overstepping their bounds. They may be acting independently, without direct orders from their leadership."
The discussion shifted to potential solutions. "We need to address this issue at its root," Maria suggested. "A meeting with Blackwatch's leadership could help clarify their stance on this matter. It's crucial to establish whether they endorse these actions or if they're unaware of what's happening."
"Right," another councilor agreed. "And if Blackwatch is unaware, they need to be informed. They have the authority to discipline their civilians and remind them of their place within the camp's ecosystem. Everyone must respect the established order and the rights of all residents, regardless of affiliation."
"General Peralta," Maria called. "As you can hear from the council, it's only the civilians of Blackwatch harassing the original residents of the camp. What are your thoughts on this?"
"Well…the moment we let the Blackwatch enter the New Clark, our power suddenly diminished. I have seen Blackwatch's capability based on their equipment alone, and I don't think we would have the power to make things our way. I'm leaning on the idea that we should get Blackwatch as the sole government of the camp. Personal interests don't matter in this apocalyptic world anymore. It's a battle of humanity against zombies."
General Peralta's statement sparked a new wave of discussion among the councilors. Some nodded in agreement, acknowledging the reality of their situation in a world overrun by zombies. Others, however, appeared uneasy, concerned about losing their privilege as a councilor who was often treated like a VIP.
"I think we must maintain some level of autonomy," the councilor who began the discussion said.
"I told you, at this point, it's useless to have some sort of autonomy. Let the Blackwatch govern the camp. Ma'am Santos, perhaps a system where the Blackwatch protects and the councilor serves all survivors, Blackwatch or not, sounds like a good idea. We will serve the people based on Blackwatch's vision and then we will do it," Peralta said.
"But I heard that the Blackwatch have their civilian departments, those who take care of the logistics and auxiliaries. What if they assign those people to the role we are doing?"
"Then they must be a very capable individual to handle such responsibilities efficiently," Peralta continued, his tone pragmatic. "Our role here before the Blackwatch was voluntary. There's not an election or the people choosing, it's just us standing up to the role."
"You are right…" Santos concurred. "Well then, I'll go speak to the Blackwatch leadership immediately."
***
Four o'clock in the afternoon, at Blackwatch New Clark City Command Center, near the Clark International Airport. A Toyota Vios sedan was being stopped by an armed guard at the entrance of the command center.
The sedan obliged and stopped and the guard walked over to the window. "Identification and purpose?" the guard asked.
Maria Santos, sitting in the backseat, leaned forward to address the guard. "I am Maria Santos, representing the original residents of New Clark City Camp. I request a meeting with Commander-in-Chief Richard Gonzales to discuss matters concerning the well-being and representation of our residents."
The guard paused for a moment, eyeing her credentials. He then spoke into his radio, relaying the information. After a brief wait, he nodded. "You're cleared to enter. Follow the road to the main building, and you'll be directed to the waiting area. Commander Gonzales will be informed of your arrival."
Maria nodded in acknowledgment, and the sedan was waved through the checkpoint. As they drove towards the command center, Maria mentally prepared herself for the meeting.
The sedan parked in front of the imposing command center. The driver, Peralta, pulled the handbrake and glanced over his shoulder. "Good luck."
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