A dystopian tale with low stakes that doesn't have a revolution or tournament.

Mikael Woolnir isn't trying to change the world or the society, he wants to change himself and his present, and for that, he will take advantage of the grim status quo for his and his fiancee's benefit. He can't change an ocean, but he can learn to swim, surf, and dive.

Every dictator is the reincarnation of another, and every rebel is the reincarnation of another. Mikael knew that and understood that his barking wasn't louder than a dictator's roar. He didn't want to die for freedom, but he wanted to live for something, a cause. Is love a good cause to live for? Or maybe a dream? He wanted to live for his dreams and love rather than die for people's freedom. The same tale repeated itself across history. People died for freedom and will continue to do so, like an idol they kept providing with sacrifices in hope it will change something. But Mike knew it all, the fight for freedom only enslaves more people. And as for his freedom, he will get it his own way, without slogans or revolutions or parades. If he can't stand against the Lion, he will stand with him, and his enemies will mistake his barking for a roar.

Participant in the Royal Road Writathon challenge.