The sun rose over the lush forests and towering mountains of British Columbia, casting its golden light over a land rich with history and scars. For centuries, the First Nations peoples had fought to protect their unceded territories, enduring waves of colonization, broken promises, and bloodthirsty leaders who prioritized conquest over compassion.
But today was different.
Chief Carpenter, a respected leader of the Coast Salish peoples, stood at the heart of a ceremonial gathering. By his side was Joe, a descendant of the Croatan tribe, whose ancestors had endured their own struggles on the distant shores of what settlers called the United States. Joe had spent years advocating for the rights of Indigenous peoples, working tirelessly to bridge the gap between cultures.
Across from them stood a representative of the Vatican, an unexpected ally. In a gesture that shocked the world, the Vatican had formally recognized the unceded lands of Turtle Island and pledged to support the return of British Columbia to its rightful stewards.
A Peaceful Revolution
The decision to return the land had not come easily. For decades, bloodthirsty leaders had used violence and manipulation to suppress First Nations voices. But Joe and Chief Carpenter had chosen a different path—one of peace, dialogue, and unwavering determination.
Joe’s journey began with his discovery of the Croatan prophecy, which spoke of a time when the descendants of the First Peoples would reclaim their lands without bloodshed. Inspired by this vision, he sought allies in unexpected places, including the Vatican.
Through years of negotiation, Joe and Chief Carpenter convinced the Vatican to acknowledge its role in the colonization of Turtle Island. They appealed not to guilt but to the shared humanity and spiritual connection to the land. “This is not about blame,” Joe had said in a pivotal meeting. “It’s about healing—for all of us.”
The Day of Celebration
On the day British Columbia was returned, First Nations women led the celebration. Dressed in traditional regalia, they sang songs of gratitude and resilience. The land itself seemed to respond, as eagles soared above and rivers shimmered with an almost otherworldly glow.
The women were especially drawn to Chief Carpenter and Joe, whose leadership had brought them to this moment. “You have given us back more than land,” one elder said. “You’ve given us hope.”
The gathering included settlers, too, many of whom were moved by the peaceful transition. Joe addressed the crowd, his voice steady and clear.
“This is not the end but a beginning. We must walk together now, as stewards of this land. Turtle Island belongs to all who honor it, but its heartbeat will always be First Nations.”
A New Chapter
The return of British Columbia marked the start of a new era. The First Nations peoples began implementing sustainable practices to restore the land and waters. Settlers who chose to stay were invited to learn and live in harmony with Indigenous traditions.
Joe and Chief Carpenter continued to lead, their partnership a symbol of unity. The First Nations women, who had long carried the weight of their communities, were now at the forefront of this renaissance. Their joy and love for their leaders were palpable, a testament to the healing power of justice.
And so, without violence or bloodshed, Turtle Island began to heal. The scars of the past remained, but they no longer defined the future. Together, the people of British Columbia forged a path of reconciliation, proving that even in a world of bloodthirsty leaders, peace was possible.