Early in the 21st century, the federal government of the United States inevitably collapsed. After decades of overspending, bitter partisan division, and corrupt leadership, the bankrupt and irreparably divided government had no option but to disband. In one final act of unity, the entire country overwhelmingly voted to dissolve the federation and return sole governing authority to the states.
After initially floundering with the sudden shift in power after 250 years under a unified federal system, states of similar political and social values eventually banded together to form Sovereigns, regional districts whose visions were determined by the values of the citizens within. This tumultuous period of determining the boundaries and priorities of these sovereigns has become known as The Swailing.
In Optima, The Swailing was a time of reflection and focus. As a unified sovereign, it was decided that the health and equality of its citizens, and the preservation and protection of the environment, were paramount. All legislation since the founding of Optima has been focused on upholding these principles.
Today, citizens who disagree with the goals set forth by their sovereign's governing body are free to emigrate to another sovereign at any time. However, all residents are expected to obey the laws and regulations of the sovereign in which they travel and/or reside.
Excerpted from "Optima: A Sovereign of Healing"
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The Swailing
Teen FictionEmber Hadley has spent every sheltered and boring minute of her 17 years in Optima, one of the independent sovereigns formed after the inevitable collapse of the U.S. federal government. Optima fiercely safeguards the health and safety of its citize...
