Chapter 8

Two weeks of strikes after the initial uprising, the movement had expanded to factories across Core City, a chorus of voices unified for change. Factory floors fell silent.

In the quiet of Marworks Factory, at the heart of this charged atmosphere, stood Ayodele, her composure unshaken. Facing her were Baylon and Ijoma.

Baylon began, his voice commanding the room's attention. "We demand fair wages, dignified work, and education, a chance for better lives." His words, resonating through the factory, articulated a shared dream.

“Yes!” The workers around him bellowed.

Ayodele, poised and measured, responded. "Your concerns are noted. We offer a five percent wage increase, extra rest breaks, and improved safety measures." Her offer, calculated and strategic, bypassed the workers' core issues.

“Not enough,” Ijoma said.

She continued, "We'll slightly raise the minimum working age, but let's consider economic realities. Consider your families' needs,” Ayodele said.

Ijoma, undaunted, replied, "We want significant wage increases, a cap on child work hours, and the right to unionize." Her words cut through Ayodele's veneer, charging the room with tension.

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Ayodele said, "Drastic changes risk the factory's future and your job security. I’m trying to protect you.”

Baylon said, "Start with raises and less child labor, then slowly make more changes."

Ayodele's gaze lingered on Baylon and Ijoma, her expression betraying her internal debate. Ijoma seized the moment, "A respected workforce is more efficient."

After prolonged negotiations, Ayodele conceded to some demands. "Ten percent raises for all. Child labor will be limited to 20 hours weekly," Ayodele announced. "Additionally, we'll fund a school for our young workers' education."

Baylon nudged Little Obo forward. He cleared his throat. “We accept!”

#

Months later, the new schoolhouse was alive with the sounds of learning. Children occupied desks, their expressions eager.

A teacher standing before the class, said “Order in life is important,” her eyes scanning for signs of attentive compliance.

Another instructor introduced a textbook, its cover emblazoned with the Marwork Factory's emblem. The pages within offered an explanation of how factories had improved quality of life for everyone.

Ijoma leaned toward Baylon and whispered, “Better for Ayodele, anyway.”

Baylon asked, "What about the workers' stories, the strikes?" he asked.

“The truth is written right there,” the teacher said. “Read it.”

“Does it talk about workers’ rights anywhere?”

“Why would it?” the teacher asked.

“Because we are people, and that’s important.”

“People are very important, which is why jobs are important. We all have to work for a living.” The teacher smiled. “Even me!”

Baylon said, “But-”

“No more interruptions, or you will have to stay after class.”

“We have to be discrete,” Baylon whispered to Ijoma.

In the schoolhouse's shadows, Andamaz warned Baylon, "You can’t keep causing trouble."

“Why?”

“Because we won! Be grateful for once.”