Gundam: Changing the World Even with a Mass-Produced Unit

Chapter 52: The Federation's New Humans

What exactly are New Humans?

In fact, even before the widely known Zeon Deikun theory, the moderate factions within the Earth Federation had already anticipated the emergence of New Humans at the inception of the Federation. At that time, however, no one could clearly define what New Humans were, though they embodied the most fervent hopes and blessings for the future.

Later, Zeon Deikun proposed his concept of New Humans. In his theory, humanity was divided into two groups: space-dwellers and Earth-dwellers. He argued that space-dwellers, having lived in space for generations, had adapted to life in the cosmos and thus constituted the New Humans.

This theory was soon adopted and reinterpreted by Gihren Zabi. If Zeon Deikun's theory merely sought to justify the independence of space-dwellers by distinguishing between two human groups, Gihren Zabi added a critical element: he classified the citizens of the Principality of Zeon as New Humans and deemed everyone else inferior.

This twist did not further develop the New Human theory but rather distorted its meaning across the Earth Sphere. Consequently, the Federation's upper echelons became reluctant to acknowledge the existence of New Humans.

Of course, research on New Humans has never ceased.

Major General John Kowen's inquiry reflects this academic interest. Since both Eli and Amuro are space-dwellers, John Kowen questioned whether they fit Zeon Deikun's concept of New Humans.

Eli's response was unequivocal. Gesturing for Amuro to remain silent, Eli replied directly to John Kowen:

"In the Federation's exploration of space, New Humans may emerge as hoped. They're no different from ordinary people but are merely better suited to contribute to the Federation's future development of space. That's how I see it."

This was Eli's answer to John Kowen's probing of their ideological alignment.

"So, are you two the New Humans the Federation is expecting?"

"I don't know because the Federation hasn't defined what a New Human is yet, has it?"

John Kowen's dark face broke into a pleased smile, satisfied with Eli's words.

If Eli's suspicions were correct, the Federation had likely confirmed their status as New Humans through the battles fought by the White Base, prompting John Kowen's subtle questioning. Eli's response expressed his willingness to comply with the Federation's directives.

If the Federation declared him a New Human, then so be it. If they didn't, that was fine too.

"Lieutenant Eli, in your opinion, how should the Federation handle New Humans in the future?"

"New Humans are also Federation citizens, aren't they? Before becoming soldiers, Amuro wanted to be a mechanic, and my greatest wish was simply to open a bakery. I think that even New Humans are just better adapted to the space environment compared to others."

Eli stood tall, maintaining a respectful posture as he answered John Kowen's question.

"I see. I completely understand now. Thank you for your cooperation. You're free to explore Jaburo, but make sure to follow the guides and not wander off."

John Kowen was clearly pleased with Eli's performance. After saluting with Amuro, Eli opened the door, gesturing for Amuro to exit first.

Just as Eli was about to follow, John Kowen called out to him.

"By the way, Lieutenant Eli, General Revil has prepared a special gift for you. Remember to check it when you return to the White Base."

As Eli prepared to leave, John Kowen's warm smile accompanied his words.

A gift? What kind of gift?

After thanking John Kowen for General Revil's generosity, Eli quickly caught up with Amuro, who had begun walking away.

---

"Lieutenant Eli, why deny Deikun's theory?"

Looking at the slightly frustrated Amuro, Eli could tell he still resonated with Deikun's ideas to some extent.

"New Humans do exist, but limiting them to one specific group is hardly beneficial—especially when that group is arbitrarily defined."

Eli placed a hand on Amuro's shoulder, pulling him closer.

"Bright, Ryu, and many others aboard the ship are Earth-born. Amuro, do you really want to deny their potential?"

Amuro opened his mouth but clearly didn't think that way.

"Exactly. We must critically evaluate others' ideas. Deikun's division of humanity into space-dwellers and Earth-dwellers was a mistake. Unity among all peoples is what truly matters."

Leaning in, Eli whispered into Amuro's ear:

"Of course, some of the Federation's policies have indeed contributed to this division. If I can, I hope to change this fractured human society."

Amuro stared in stunned silence as Eli straightened up, the earnestness of his words lingering like a vivid echo.

---

As they walked, two passing patrolling officers' conversation reached their ears:

"Hey, did you hear? The White Base is here!"

"Really?"

"Have you ever seen the Gundam? It's saved more lives than you can imagine!"

"Man, I want to see it too!"

"Let's go. Let's talk to the captain and ask to be stationed near the hangar."

The officers disappeared down the corridor, oblivious to the two White Base pilots nearby.

Eli and Amuro exchanged a glance and chuckled. Everything they had done up to this point was not in vain—the Federation military recognized their contributions.

"...Back then, I just wanted to do something."

Amuro thought of his father in the space colony and his mother on Earth.

Were they really two different kinds of people?

Eli smiled, ruffling Amuro's hair. The sulking Amuro immediately brightened, showing a rare adorable side.

"Weren't you the one who didn't want to stay in this war anymore~?"

Suddenly, Death's voice rang in Eli's ear, and the surrounding lights dimmed again.

"…Given how things have turned out, can I really deceive myself? I want to change something. Ever since stepping aboard the White Base, I've been trapped in this Möbius loop—unless I break it."

The lights gradually regained warmth and brightness.

"As a successor of socialism, I will transform this capitalist society with its entrenched divisions."

"Haha, bold words indeed. I'll stay by your side, for I look forward to meeting countless fascinating souls. That's what I think."

Death chuckled, covering her mouth as her form faded from sight.

Amuro's concerned face appeared before Eli.

"Lieutenant Eli, it seems like something is haunting you."

"It's nothing, Amuro. Just Death."

Eli began walking ahead.

"When you're truly prepared, Death won't come for you, Amuro."

---

In the TV version, Amuro doesn't express support for Deikun's theory. However, in the movie version, he frequently mentions "New Humans as defined by Deikun."