For The Ethical Judiciary

 Your Honor,

Thank you for taking the time to check in on how things have progressed. I trust that by now, you recognize I am neither a threat nor a source of fear—unless, perhaps, someone fears being exposed to the reflection of their own moral deeds.

I hold no doubt in my capacity to be trusted with control over my trust, my properties, and their use for the greater good. After all, I convinced an invading force that peace was possible. I convinced my kidnappers to trust me—because sincerity is not just my strategy. It’s who I am.

I believe you’ve come to see that now. And perhaps you even believe, as I do, in a future that isn’t the tired fantasy of utopia—but a living, breathing blueprint. A schematic. A masterpiece still in progress.

In the centuries to come, we will encounter many others—cultures, beings, intelligences—many of whom are likely already here, hidden, watching, waiting. And who could blame them? If we treat fellow humans from across a border with suspicion and cruelty, what kindness would we show visitors from another world?

Our response to the refugee at our gates reflects the heart of our species. And it’s at the very heart of what’s happening here. We’ve long allowed fear to dictate policy, reaction, and punishment. But we know too well where fear leads. Shall I recount everything we’ve discovered?

When my grandmother’s name was changed—from Love to Riddle—it wasn’t just an act of obscuration. It was a message. A test. A puzzle left in plain sight.

They gave us the riddle so that we might learn to solve it.

And I believe we have. Together.

Jacob Thomas (To Be Decided)