The Rebel: The Selection Fanfiction

Bit 2: The Voice

I have to go in front of a camera and tell the world why I, America Singer, a five, ought to be Queen. Why I, of all people, deserved the title. I hadn't even written anything down that I hadn't crossed out viciously. I was last in the polls. I don't have any connections. The King hates me. What do I have that would make me better than Kriss or anyone for that matter! I needed to think, alone, before showtime. But suddenly, there was a knock. Showtime arrived earlier than I expected. I got up, smoothed my dress, and threw open the door. My mind was blank.

“Do you need anything?” Silvia asked.

“Nope,” I replied, following her out.

***

“Why do you deserve to be Queen?” Gavril asked.

“I...don't,” I admitted. “I don't deserve it but it would be an..honor to rule these people. I love this country and although there are some...things I don't agree with, I would do my best. I would be fair and honest and... educated.” I sat up straighter, gaining more confidence. “I would make sure everyone had something to eat and I will, even if I don't become queen, change the world for the better. The people will get a voice. I will be their voice.”

I turned to the audience and said, “The people of Illéa deserve a voice. I'm not going to just rule. I'm going to be a problem solver even if I have to come to your providence and fix the situation myself.”

Gavril just smiled and gestured for me to continue.

“I..Look,” I said to the audience, “close your eyes.” I kept silent until even Gavril has his head bowed, eyes closed.

“Picture your home. Your family. What happens if that was all ripped away from you? You didn't even have a penny to your name.” A few people peeked open their eyes, giving me a look that asked, “Where is this going?”

“You’d need help, right? You might be stubborn but you have to do this. It's so you can feed your family for a day, a week. But what happens if a family took you in, taught you what they know? Then you could go out and work for your family to eat. That's what I'd like to do. Adopt a family. Feed them. Clothe them. Give them a job to feed their families.” People had started to stir, obviously not happy with this idea. “But there would also be a reward system for the hosts” That got their attention.

“It would depend on how many families you support. If you help a certain amount, the royal family will host a ball for your honor. Even if you're a Seven or a Two” That got their attention. A few people even started to clap slowly until it sounded like a downpour pounding the concrete. Even the King grudgingly clapped.

Relief I felt spread through my chest, and I smiled.