“The belief in a supernatural source of evil is not necessary; men alone are quite capable of every wickedness.”
― Joseph Conrad, Under Western Eyes

“People...like to invent monsters and monstrosities. Then they seem less monstrous themselves.”
― Andrzej Sapkowski, The Last Wish

*****

It is interesting that text so ancient as to predate humanity's arrival in New Eden still holds merit with regard to our behavior. From the “monsters” who control the ruling parties of New Eden to the vicious and depraved pirates who terrorize the innocent, the commonality they all share, that they are human, conforms to such generalizations.

Only we have the power to wreck such havoc across the stars, and on such a scale that leaves worlds in ruin.

A paradox, however, as such violence is necessary to, eventually, improbably, create a lasting peace. Unlikely as it may be, the falling ash may someday give root to the growth of a better people.