Sol Alliance News Network

[Triogenix]

Governor MacPherson announces negotiations underway for the extradition of Unathi Pirates to Hegemony

Earlier today, standing beside Minister of Defense Lucien Courtois on Sankt Frederick, Governor MacPherson announced the recently captured Unathi Pirates, now in custody on the planet, may be extradited to the Hegemony. The SANN was on the ground to record the announcement and has attached it to this article.

Quote

The camera pans over to the right to track Governor MacPherson and Fleet Admiral Courtois as they make their way up to the Podium, taking about thirty seconds. The Governor quickly rearranges some papers on the podium, before politely coughing into the mic. Having confirmed that it’s on, he begins his announcement.

 

“My fellow Solarians, I stand here today with a representative of our provisional government in the core worlds, Minister of Defense Courtois, to speak to you today about the Unathi pirates we recently captured in the former territory of the Southern Fleet Administration. It is our belief, and I think I speak for both myself and the Minister of Defense here, that a diplomatic solution where these criminals can be punished by their original government is preferable, and will help to signal a reborn Solarian Alliance that has diplomacy beyond threats of force.”

 

The governor pauses for a moment to look at Courtois who gives an almost imperceptible nod before continuing.

 

“With that said, we have several conditions we would like to consider. Firstly, the trial of the criminals shall take place here, on Sankt Frederick. We are willing to grant the Iz-we-ski Hegemony a plot of land at a now unused consulate for a fixed period where the trial and punishment can occur, outside the laws of these lands. Secondly, the trial must be observed by a member of the Solarian Department of Justice, who will act as an advisor to the Hegemonies appointed judge. Third, the criminals shall be charged with all crimes committed within the territories of the Solarian Alliance, occupied or otherwise, during their trial. We are not just here to achieve justice for a crime six years in the past, we are here to find justice for murdered Solarian citizens. Lastly, not all criminals will be extradited, we will allow your government to try two of them, while the remaining are tried here by our planetary courts.”

 

After finishing his statement, the governor takes another quick pause before continuing.

 

“These conditions are the requirements we have to allow some of these criminals to be punished by their original government, and we encourage the Hegemony to reach out to our Charge-de-affairs to give their response. As a gesture of good faith, we will allow a Hegemonic Lord to observe the trials of the rest of the pirates, as well as provide further evidence of their guilt, but not advise the Judge on their sentence.”

 

The governor then finishes his speech, speaking briefly with Courtois, before both walk off the stage and the camera stops rolling.

This announcement has baffled interstellar relations experts, who were incredibly surprised to find the Alliance open to negotiations in any form, instead expecting a quick military trial of the pirates. Legal experts have also given their input into the strange nature of the agreement, commenting on the allocation of land to the Hegemony for a fixed period, and the precedent it sets. One interviewee from Callisto was quoted saying “If we start giving all our land to [EXPLETIVE] alien governments to do what they please, what’s the point of the alliance?” The SANN also reached out to Fleet Admiral Myo Yunso to ask for a comment, but her public relations officer declined to give a statement. It was the same when SANN reporters reached out to Fleet Admiral Klaudia Szalai’s office. We currently know that Minister of Defense Courtois visited both admiral’s flagships before appearing with the governor for his statement, though not what was discussed. Now we expectantly wait for the response of the Hegemony with bated breath, stay tuned!

[Triogenix]

Unathi Pirates Publicly Executed by Hegemony Lord-Admiral after 4-hour Trial

In a shocking development, after a mere six hours on the planet of Sankt Frederick the Hegemony’s appointed judge, one Lord-Admiral Yizarus has completed the trial and punishment of the three criminals the Hegemony was allowed to try. The trial itself only took four hours, and thirty minutes after completion the convicted Unathi were taken out of the consulate building to its front yard for their punishments. The SANN had a camera on the scene and captured the following video. Viewer discretion is advised.

Quote

 

The camera turns on with an unsteady hand, as it shakes seemingly up onto someone's shoulder. After a few moments, it clears up and begins to track a three person long file of Unathi prisoners gagged and chained being escorted out onto the front lawn of the former consulate. The file is led by a tall, proud-looking Sinta with a sword at his waist, Lord-Admiral Yizarus, and flanked on all sides by Men-at-arms wearing the heraldry of the Izweski; by the Lord-Admiral's side is a short, plump man identified as a Solarian Judge. About halfway across the lawn, the file stops, in front of a small crowd that’s begun to form. Several armsmen place three wooden boxes on the lawn and force each prisoner to kneel with their head on one. Lord-Admiral Yizarus notices the crowd which has begun to grow in size, and quickly speaks with the Judge before turning to face the crowd. He then gave the following statements.

 

“I have found thessse criminalss guilty of a litany of crimesss, including pirassy in the Sssolarian Alliansse. For thesse crimesss, they will be eksecuted.”

 

The Lord-Admiral seemingly believes that’s enough to say, and turns back to criminals, now all kneeling, drawing the sword on his waist. It’s an unadorned simple sword but shines with a sharpness that only Plasteel could achieve. He plants the point into the soft ground near the head of the rightmost convict, Sitraz. He then says;

 

In Sinta’Unathi: “And now, a duty fulfilled.”

 

After that phrase Yizarus brings the sword up over his head and down onto Sitraz’s neck, completely separating his head from the rest of his body in one smooth stroke, to the gasps of the crowd. Yizarus casually kicks the now removed head out of his way, as he moves on to the next convict, believed to be Sitraz’s second in command. Without a word this time, Yizarus once again hefts the sword up over his head and down onto the convict's neck, separating their head from their body. He then moves on to the last convict and repeats the same motion with the same ending before speaking again.

 

In Sinta’Unathi: “Have it all burned, and spread the ashes through the star lanes; there should be no resting place for the dishonored.”

 

The armsmen move to carry the bodies and head back inside, as Yizarus calmly pulls out a piece of cloth and begins to clean his sword, speaking with the stunned Solarian Judge all the while. The crowd murmurs but is mostly quiet, too stunned to react spectacularly. Eventually, Yizarus and the judge both head back inside, and the camera stops rolling.

 

The speed and severity of the punishment handed down to the pirates has taken Sankt Frederick by storm, with videos of the executions and the thoughts of the population being re-chirped millions of times across the spur. When asked by a reporter who caught him at the starport leaving for the Hegemony about the executions, Lord-Admiral Yizarus simply said:

Quote

“They broke the lawsss of the Hegemon, Sssolarian Alliansse, and other civilized nationss ass well asss the lawsss of the sspiritsss, and were punissshed accordingly.”

The remainder of the pirates remain on Sankt Frederick and are expected to be brought before a Solarian Judge for their trials several months from now. The Hegemony has extended its full thanks to the Solarian Government as well as the leaders of the Southern Solarian Reconstruction Mandate, in particular Governor McPherson, for allowing them to “justly punish a criminal who has long evaded rightful authority.”

[La Villa Strangiato]

Kazimir Boytsov, Last Necropolis CEO, Dies at Age 153

Kazimir Boytsov, the last chief executive officer of Necropolis Industries prior to its rebranding to Zavodskoi Interstellar, has died at home in Moscow, U.S.S.R, Earth. He was 153.

"Dr. Boytsov passed away at home surrounded by his family," a statement posted to Zavodskoi Interstellar's official blog and Chirper pages said yesterday. "He was known as a dedicated researcher, a pioneer in the field of genetic engineering, and a loyal father, grandfather, and great-grandfather."

The statement did not provide a cause of death or mention of illness, but it is known that Boytsov, recorded as one of the oldest humans in the Orion Spur, had slipped into a coma in 2462. After this, Dr. Lyudmila Zavodskoi, a top executive within the company's arms manufacturing department, rose to take his position.

Boytsov ascended to chief executive officer in the wake of his father, Yevgeniy Dementyev. His last years heading Necropolis Industries prior to its rebranding were marked by controversy. Investigations by the Solarian Corporate Authority uncovered evidence that Necropolis had been performing insider trading schemes, and distributing weaponry on the black market to conflict zones such as Fisanduh in the Empire of Dominia and the sector of space known as the Badlands. Shortly after the allegations broke, Boytsov lapsed into a coma, and control over the company passed to Lyudmila Zavodskoi, who rebranded the company to Zavodskoi Interstellar.

Sources within Zavodskoi Interstellar say that no public date of mourning has been scheduled. Boytsov's next of kin did not respond to a request for comment from the Sol Alliance News Network.

Edited September 27, 2023 by La Villa Strangiato

[RustingWithYou]

Senator Trang Condemns Hephaestus Role in Nralakk Summit

New Blades, Old Wounds Article 5

Senator Le Hanh Trang has issued a public statement with regards to recent talks between the Nralakk Federation and the Unathi-ruled Izweski Hegemony, condemning the invitation of Hephaestus Industries. In a live statement from Unity Station today, the senator stated that “It is a dark day for the Spur when a megacorporation sits at a table with two nations, and negotiates as an equal. We in the Alliance know too well the damage that these corporations can cause - the actions of NanoTrasen have been devastating to the Alliance and its people, and Hephaestus themselves have exploited my homeworld and its people for generations. While this is not unexpected of the Unathi - a species new to the interstellar stage, who do not understand the danger that unchecked corporate power poses - I would expect more wisdom from our long-time allies in the Nralakk Federation than to allow such a predatory force to influence their affairs. I hope that both sides of these Ouerean negotiations realize the foolishness of their actions, and reconsider inviting Hephaestus to their discussion.”

Senator Trang has often made such statements against the megacorporations of the Spur, having been a leading figure in the implementation of the Solarian Corporate Authority and the nationalization of corporate assets across the Alliance. SANN reporters reached out to the Nralakk Federation consulate on Unity Station, and received an official response informing us: “The Nralakk Federation is well aware of all risks involved in these negotiations, but we do not make our decisions based on fear. Rest assured that our representatives shall act with the wisdom that we pride ourselves on, and that we extend our hopes that ill-founded fear is not allowed to jeopardize the friendship between our two great nations.”

SANN has also reached out to staff at the Alliance embassy on Moghes for comment, but we have only received a fax informing us that the Alliance has yet to take an official stance on the matter. Time will tell whether or not Senator Trang’s words will reach our allies in the Federation, however - or whether Hephaestus will keep its seat at the negotiating table.

Edited June 3 by RustingWithYou
arc

[NewOriginalSchwann]

San Colette - One Year Later

Article 1 of Dulce et Decorum

The commercial break ends and brings into focus a serious-looking middle-aged man with slicked-back, graying hair and a thick mustache in a suit with a Callistean flag lapel pin. After the SANN intro cuts out, he begins speaking.

“Good evening, and welcome back to the State of Sol — I’m your host, Harold MacMillan. We begin today with good news across the Alliance economically," MacMillan does not appear to be lying -- most of the companies on the Callistean Interstellar Stock Exchange ticker at the bottom of the screen have gained value, "one year after the Reunification. We go now to our reporter in Nueva Isabela, San Colette — Shufan Koh.”

The left side of the camera to a typical Solarian woman standing in front of a building. With a gesture, MacMillan fades from view and Koh takes up the entire screen — it’s clear she’s standing in front of the same building Liao Qi stood by over a year ago, as San Colette was about to descend into war.

“Thank you, Harold. I’m currently standing in front of a building used during the conflict as an emergency command post by a Visegradi unit. While it was hit directly by enemy artillery fire and nearly destroyed,,” Koh gestures to the building behind her, “as you can see, it’s been completely rebuilt.”

“Is it similar across San Colette?”

Koh nods.

“It is, Harold. We spoke with a Department of the Interior official earlier — here’s what he had to say regarding the situation.”

The camera cuts to a man in a dark suit labeled as “Jiahao Yeung, Carolean Expanse Section Executive, DOI” who shortly begins talking.

“Across the Northern Reaches, particularly in Nueva Patria, we’ve seen a very quick recovery from the Civil War. At worst, during the invasion of San Colette itself, roughly four percent of the warp gates in the system were operational. Now it’s at roughly seventy percent — not where we want to end our efforts, but a remarkable turnaround.”

“Why has the recovery been so quick?” Koh asks from offscreen.

“Good question. One of the big reasons is the local expertise San Colette brings to warp gate construction alongside our Einstein Engines contractors, but most of the recovery is due to tenacity. We’ve had some of our engineers work eighty hour weeks for months on end to bring gates back online and repair infrastructure across San Colette itself.”

“That’s incredible! With this pace, how long until recovery efforts are concluded?”

“If we can keep this pace, efforts will be done within the year — potentially in time for the elections.”

“Thank you, Jiahao. Any final words for the viewers?

“Of course, Shufan. I want them to know that, no matter where they live, the Alliance won’t abandon them. We will rebuild our nation, no matter how long it may take.”

The camera cuts back to Koh, standing in front of the building.

“That’s all I have for now, Harold. For the SANN I’m Shufan Koh, reporting live from Nueva Isabela, San Colette.”

[NewOriginalSchwann]

Secretary Courtois Announces Reintegration of the 5th Middle Ring Battlefleet

Article 3 of Dulce et Decorum

The commercial break ends and brings into focus Harold MacMillan, host of the State of Sol. After the SANN introduction finishes, he clears his throat and begins talking.

“Welcome back to the State of Sol. Breaking news today from Luna, where the Department of Defense has announced that so-called ‘Free Solarian Fleets’ will be integrated back into the Solarian Navy as a ‘semiautonomous combat unit’ for their actions during the fight against secessionists in the Northern Reaches. We go now to our reporter on-scene, Céline Eylenbosch. Céline?”

The camera changes to a blonde woman in a fashionable suit — to anyone who has watched the SANN, this is unmistakably Céline Eylenbosch, star Cytherean reporter of the network — in a fancily-decorated hallway.

“Hello, dear viewers,” Eylenbosch looks excited to be reporting from Luna instead of the Northern Reaches -- she's wearing the latest fall 2466 Idris Incorporated fashion. “As Harold said, the ‘Free Solarian Fleets’ are once again part of the Navy following several days of negotiations between Secretary Courtois and former Admiral Rensburg. Any Solarian citizen who served under Rensburg is entitled to a position in the Navy, should they wish.”

“And if they don’t want to serve?”

“I imagine they’ll be unemployed!” Eylenbosch smiles wryly towards the camera. “They’re immune from prosecution, of course, but who knows where they’ll end up if they don’t stay in?”

“Mmhm, fitting,” McMillan nods his head -- he's got a bit of a grin too. “Has the Secretary said what he plans to use them for?”

“Not yet Harold, but an officer I spoke to said he believes they’ll be kept in the Northern Reaches to support the government.”

“Thank you, Céline. We’ll follow up with you if this develops further.”

“Thank you, Harold!” Eylenbosch gives a wave to the camera as the feed cuts out, showing a very fancy, Idris-produced watch on her wrist for a few frames.

[NewOriginalSchwann]

Southern Mandate Reestablishes Local Force in Visegrad

Article 5 of Dulce et Decorum

The camera opens on a conference room full of reporters and journalists, all looking at an empty stage. After a few moments the doors open and several individuals walk in — one of which is undoubtedly Klaudia Szalai, current governor of the region. As she takes the podium, the clicking and flashing of cameras halts.

“Citizens of Visegrad,” she begins. “It has been nearly four years since our planet’s system defense forces were integrated into the Solarian Navy under emergency defense authority. Now, with the region having stabilized as our Alliance grows, I am authorizing the reformation of the Visegradi National Defense Force.”

The assembled dignitaries clap and the clicking and flashing of cameras resumes. Szalai remains quiet for a moment, then silences the crowd with a gesture of her hand. She then steps back and to the side, letting an older Visegradi man have the podium. A caption at the bottom of the screen notes him as Mariusz Kovacs, Minister of Public Security. He clears his throat and begins speaking.

“As our planet’s most senior law enforcement officer, it brings me great satisfaction to announce that the reformed NDF will be led by Commandant Willerich Kozak, a veteran of the Intervention who nearly sacrificed everything to protect the Alliance. I have no doubt Commandant Kozak will lead us to victory against all enemies of Visegrad!”

More clapping sounds out and more photos are snapped as Kovacs lets another man step to the podium. Kozak is still as severe-looking as he was in the Xanu News Service’s view of him, but a robotic hand gives the former volunteer soldier a different appearance. Kozak shakes Kovacs’ hand and turns to face the audience, letting them quiet before speaking.

“Thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility of commanding our security force. Let me announce, first, that any NDF members who have gone abroad since its integration into the Navy are welcome to return to its ranks and defend our people. Second, let me state that any enemies of our people who think they can attack Visegradi internal security, are wrong. I will bring the last secessionists to heel, and rebuild what they have destroyed.

Kozak pauses for a moment, clearing his throat.

“Further, the NDF’s re-establishment has allowed us to reconstitute the Army’s Jäger divisions garrisoned here by detaching them from the Navy. Know that if you threaten Visegrad we will hunt you down, whether that be in our cities, our homesteads, our forests, or in our orbit.”

Kozak pushed himself off of the podium to clapping from the assembled dignitaries as Szalai takes her position on it once again.

“Thank you, Commandant. Questions?”

A hand shoots up from a man in the front. Szalai points at him.

“Governor Szalai. I’m Alojzy Kalinowski with the Visegrad News Network,” his accent is clearly Visegradi -- the local media's not letting this pass by without a showing, “with the NDF forming under non-Navy control, does this bring us closer to elections?”

“It does,” the Fleet Admiral nods. “The Mandate believes Visegrad’s security situation has improved to a point where civilian control of the NDF is advisable.”

Szalai points to another hand, this one belonging to a woman in the middle of the audience.

“Admiral Szalai, I’m Andrea Wu with the Tau Ceti Times,” Szalai narrows her eyes slightly at the mention of Biesel. “How can foreign nationals expect to be treated by your reformed security services?”

“Fairly and under Alliance law,” Szalai answers curtly. “Next question.”

Szalai points to a well-dressed woman in the front row, who quickly stands.

“Governor. Zlatka Babic, Jadranic Record,” her accent is clearly foreign. “Are anti-piracy operations in the Badlands being handed over to your NDF?”

“Anti-piracy operations will be handled by the Solarian Navy, with regional forces securing the space around Visegrad. One more question then we’re out of time,” Szalai points to a short man in the front row, who stands.

“Governor. I’m Do-Yun Park, Bitbyte. Are there any plans for synthetic personnel in the NDF?”

“Commandant Kozak?” Szalai looks at Kozak, who moves to the microphone.

“At the moment we plan to buy back synthetics seized under emergency authority. I can’t comment on anything beyond that.”

Kozak steps back and Szalai steps forward.

“That’s it for now. Any questions should be forwarded to the governor’s office for comment.”

As the crowd claps and the reporters murmur amongst themselves, the dignitaries walk off the stage and the broadcast ends.

[NewOriginalSchwann]

Army Provides Update on Northern Reaches Peacekeeping Operations

Article 7 of Dulce et Decorum

The SANN jingle ends and focuses on a middle-aged Solarian man in a business suit sitting across from a serious-looking man in a Solarian Army uniform. The officer's hair is buzzed short and showing plenty of grey, while the anchor has only a patch of grey here and there.

“Hello and welcome back to Around the Spur. I’m your host Zhang Kai. With me is Major General Patrick Edwards of the Solarian Army, and one of the senior commanders of forces on Lycoris,” Zhang begins, taking a moment to adjust some papers sitting on the table. "General, thank you for taking time out of your duties to visit our studio on Callisto."

“Thank you for having me.”

“How is the situation on Lycoris, generally?”

“The situation has improved over the past year. We’ve had to invest heavily into counterinsurgency operations on Lycoris, but we’ve reduced the insurgency on the planet and Lycoris Minoris to a fraction of its strength in 2465.”

“With it being so reduced, is it time to scale back the Army’s presence on it?”

“Not yet. Tau Ceti’s handling of Mictlan taught us how to not handle a counterinsurgency, and you don’t want to withdraw before you’ve totally eliminated the insurgency or you’ll be back where you started in a year, maybe two or three years.”

“We’re learning from Tau Ceti?”

Edwards affords himself a brief chuckle before speaking.

“That’s a generous way of putting it, Kai. What Tau Ceti’s army — the 'Foreign Legion' as it was known at the time — has shown us is how to not do things. We’re not learning from their successes, just their mistakes. Compare how we handled Mars and they handled Mictlan.”

“You’re a veteran of the Martian campaign, yes? What made it succeed?”

“I served in it, yes. What made it succeed where Mictlan stumbled was our Army-Navy coordination, a cooperative local population we won over through hearts and minds, and using troops from Mars itself — people who wanted to help their homes.”

“You’re Martian, correct?”

“I am. My first command was a Martian unit, and I’m honored to have helped my home.”

Zhang looks at something off-screen for a moment, nods to whatever he's looking at, and looks back to Edwards.

“That’s all we have time for right now. General Edwards, thank you for coming.”

“Thank you for having me.”

"Have a safe flight back to the Northern Reaches, General -- we'll be right back. State of Sol with Harold MacMillan starts right after this program at 7PM GST."

[CampinKiller]

SANN LIVE: Reporting from Lycoris

Article 8 of Dulce et Decorum

The camera opens to a younger Solarian woman in business attire sitting at a news desk. 

“Good evening and welcome to tonight’s edition of SANN Live. I’m your host, Ava Lewis,” the Callistean-accented woman begins. “This week, we are following a Solarian Army unit currently deployed on Lycoris. We go live to our reporter who’s spending the week embedded with the men and women of the 2nd Battalion “Hawkeyes” of the 54th Plutonian Infantry Division.  

The screen shifts to a short, stocky man holding a microphone in front of what appears to be a run-down residential structure. The man is wearing the typical attire one would expect of a reporter in a combat area, though his helmet and armor are notably lacking anything that identifies him as a civilian press reporter, instead being patterned the same as the other members of the unit.

“Thank you Ava,” the man starts, his accent placing him undoubtedly as a Jintarian. “We’re here currently on a counter-insurgency patrol with the 2nd Company of the Hawkeyes. Earlier this morning their forward outpost was attacked in a hit-and-run fashion by a band of Restoration Front guerillas. While attacks have been on the downswing over the last several months, the Army is still facing challenges rooting out the last of the hardliners.”

While the man speaks, the camera begins panning to the left, showing the scene down the street of the small town the unit is operating in. Other than figures clad in Solarian Army gear, the street is deserted, and the camera shows small teams intermittently breaching into buildings and clearing them.

As you can see here,” the reporter continues, “the unit is now clearing a section of the nearby town that the loyalists are suspected of using as a hideout. This town has been mostly abandoned since-”

The sound of an explosion cuts off the man, as a building that a team of the unit had just entered explodes in a fireball. The camera zooms out, as members of the platoon instinctively take cover. Almost on cue, gunfire erupts down the street, and the cameraman can be heard moving into cover himself, as the reporter curses and joins him.

“It looks like an ambush!” he exclaims, barely audible over the sounds of an intense fight breaking out.

[CampinKiller]

SANN LIVE - BREAKING: Solarian Army Patrol Ambushed by Remnants!

Article 9 of Dulce et Decorum

The camera continues, with obvious shake, to film as the fight intensifies down the road. Figures in Solarian Army gear lay down fire and move with precision while receiving fire from a pair of buildings to their front.

“It looks like the insurgents laid a trap here!” the reporter exclaims between breaths. “These kinds of ambushes have become par for the course in the face of direct attacks over the last several months.”

The camera zooms in on two soldiers throwing grenades down the road, then pans to track their landings. After hitting the center of the street and coming to a rest, the grenades very quickly expel large amounts of thick, white smoke.

Shouting is just barely audible over the gunfire as the camera shows two soldiers lying on either side of the road, laying down a large volume of fire with two machine guns. The shouting can be traced to the rest of the unit, who is moving back towards the camera, away from the ambush. The unit reaches the reporter’s position and begins laying down their own fire, as the two machine gunners both begin pulling back. The camera zooms to the left one, a woman with short brunette hair, and catches her collapsing suddenly to the road.

“Son of a bitch-,” a third voice says, and the camera pans to the source, zooming out to bring them into the picture. A blonde-haired woman, with the muted gold-colored bar of a Lieutenant patched to her chest, is the source of the voice. In one hand is a pair of large binoculars, with a tube-like attachment to the top - the other is cupped to her ear as she shouts into her headset.

“...target southwest of friendly forces, pair of two-story buildings. Laze active, cleared hot!”

The camera pans back down the road, the smoke having cleared. Seconds pass, with no change in the picture, when the pair of buildings is consumed in a large fireball, to the cheers of the Solarian personnel. The woman’s voice can be heard again,

“Good effect, we’re moving in." The unit begins moving down the street again, encountering no resistance. The camera pans back to the reporter, who remains crouched behind a low wall.

“Well Ava, it appears the unit’s beaten back the ambush with an impressive display of firepower. The Army spares no method to eliminate these terrorists, as we’ve just witnessed. With another cell presumably destroyed, the men and women of this unit will rest a little easier tonight. Back to you.”

[NewOriginalSchwann]

Press Release: Former Government Official to be Tried for Crimes in Northern Reaches

For Immediate Release - Office of Interstellar Relations, Department of Justice

Article 10 of Dulce et Decorum

One-hundred and sixty former civil and military government officials have been indicted for offenses against the Solarian government and people during the period of chaos in the Northern Reaches commonly known as the Solarian Civil War.

According to a government indictment unsealed yesterday several former Solarian Navy officials — Anton Verglas, 35th Fleet, Normand Quinault, 33rd Fleet, Florentina von Keyserling, 35th Fleet, and others — allegedly committed crimes against humanity during a period of military rule over Lycoris. The defendants allegedly seized property from Solarian and foreign nationals without proper authorization, and conspired to overthrow the Solarian government.

The defendants then allegedly carried out a systemic campaign of violence and intimidation against the residents of Lycoris and the territories near it.

The charges announced today are the most recent in the Justice Department’s ongoing effort to change individuals who committed severe crimes in the Northern and Southern Reaches during its period of unrest.

Attorney General Henri Fontenot, Department of Justice Criminal Division head Robert Hendricks, and Special Agent in Charge of the SISA office in the Republic of San Colette Isabella Alvarez made the announcement.

The Solarian Interstellar Security Agency (SISA), with assistance from local partners, is investigating the case.

Assistant Solarian Alliance attorneys Masud Lakhdar and Sarah Kalemba of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights Section are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

[NewOriginalSchwann]

Northern Reaches Trials Begin

Article 14 of Dulce et Decorum

HARMONY CITY, LUNA — Today at 9AM (GST) the Department of Justice formally began trials related to the Solarian Civil War’s impact in the Northern Reaches. Most defendants are military personnel from the naval and military wings of the “Solarian Restoration Front,” a terrorist group active from 2462 until 2465, or its civilian administration, including the former governor of Lycoris. A smaller number are from the “Anti-Corporate League,” though many named in the September indictment are currently awaiting extradition from the Coalition of Colonies.

When asked by SANN reporters what he thought of the trial starting, Attorney General Fontenot’s office provided the following:

“These trials are a chance for the Alliance to show that, no matter what may occur, the rule of law will prevail. These trials may take a very long time, but they represent our great nation’s commitment to not let criminal actors go unpunished. Ultimately, we hope it will be a step towards healing the wounds left by the civil war.”

Assistant Solarian Attorneys Masud Lakhdar and Sarah Kalemba of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights Section were contacted by the SANN and declined to comment on an ongoing trial. The media representative of SISA Special Agent in Charge of the Lunarian Division Ulrike Henriette Marilda von Rantzau, provided the following:

“Our division has been investigating allegations made against the alleged subjects for over a year, while at the same time assisting the San Colette Division in rebuilding. I have full confidence in our personnel as we take this matter to trial.”

The SANN will continue to report on this matter as it develops.

Further Articles:

• Callisto Beats Xanu 3-2 in Latest Football Match
• San Colette Residents Describe Life Under Orbital Fire
• People of the Spur: The Dominian Lyodii

[CampinKiller]

SISA Uncovers Plot to Bomb the Northern Reach Trials

Article 15 of Dulce et Decorum

A news graphic with the words SPECIAL REPORT flashes onto the screen. The camera then transitions to none other than Harold MacMillian, who appears even more serious than usual.

“Good evening and welcome to State of Sol. This evening, the Solarian Interstellar Security Agency has announced the discovery of a plot to bomb the trials against former Restoration Front officials. We will be breaking the program now and going live to Director Seoyen Huong, who is addressing the media.”

The camera cuts to a middle-aged woman of southeast Asian descent in business attire, standing behind a podium and speaking. Flanking either side are flags of the Solarian Alliance and the SISA agency flag. A group of men and women also stand behind her, likewise in business attire.

“...To reiterate, we are confident that there will be no further threat to the trials from this particular group. Our agents have been able to apprehend a number of individuals involved with this plot, while the remainder of the group is still being tracked down at the moment. I’ll open the floor for questions.”

A number of hands shoot up. The director points to one - a man who speaks with an obvious Lunan accent.

“Are there going to be heightened security measures going forward as a result of this discovery?”

“I’m not going to get into any specifics regarding security measures, but the relevant agencies will be increasing security measures around the trials.”

Hands go up again and another person is pointed to - this time, a man of Colletish origin.

“Is there any concern from your agency of continued threats against the trial, especially with not everyone from this group in custody?”

“We are confident that the threat has been removed, and that it was isolated. While we are still tracking down members of the group behind this, we are fully confident in bringing them into custody with no threat to the public at large.”

As the hands go up again, the Director nods to a third individual - a Xanan woman.

“Director, how long was this threat known and how close did it get to becoming reality?”

“The agency has been investigating various threats from tips we’ve received regarding the trial and other terrorist activity for some time. We began to hone in on this group in particular over the last couple of weeks, but I want to be completely clear: at no time was this even close to becoming reality. That’s all I have time for, thank you.”

The Director exits the stage as more reporters shout questions at her back.

[NewOriginalSchwann]

SISA Announces Further Arrests in Bombing Plot

Article 18 of Dulce et Decorum

HARMONY CITY, LUNA – Today at 11AM (GST) the Solarian Interstellar Security Agency announced further arrests of individuals related to the bombing plot against the ongoing trials for those accused of crimes in the Northern Reaches. The arrests included all individuals that escaped custody after the initial arrests, as well as persons who provided, “material support,” to the plotters.

In total the agency has announced the arrests of over thirty individuals, all of whom have now been arraigned on an assortment of charges, including: conspiracy to utilize a weapon of mass destruction, conspiracy to commit murder against a public official, and conspiracy against the Solarian Alliance. The offenders face a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

SISA further identified the alleged ringleader of the plot, 47 year-old Bianca Accetta, a native Lycorii and alleged former member of the Solarian Restoration Front’s government on Lycoris. The agency stated that Ms. Accetta’s association with the former rebel government is still under investigation, and more charges may be pending.

The agency stressed that its investigation into the plot was still ongoing, but that there appeared to be no further threat to the public or trials. While further arrests are possible, it is believed that most, if not all, of the individuals associated with the plot have been tracked down. Anyone believing they have information relating to the individuals or the plot is encouraged to contact their local SISA field office.

 

Further Reading:

• Alliance Champions League Group Stage enters final two matchweeks
• INTERSTELLAR✰GIRLS release surprise new album
• Toowoomba-Tauranga: The Winter Wonderland of Silversun

Edited October 31 by NewOriginalSchwann

[NewOriginalSchwann]

Northern Reaches Trials Continue on Luna

Article 20 of Dulce et Decorum

HARMONY CITY, LUNA — Today as of 6PM (GST) the Department of Justice has announced several verdicts in the ongoing trials against former Solarian military officers and government officials for crimes committed in the Northern Reaches during the Solarian Civil War. All verdicts relate to the “Anti-Corporate League,” a group active from 2463-65 in the Northern Reaches and allegedly supported by the Coalition of Colonies.

Admiral Frederich Müller, commander of the 67th Fleet, Rear Admiral Ruben Pravin, acting commander of the 66th Fleet, and Admiral Nikola Camilo, commander of the 58th Fleet, have been convicted of treason, desertion, sedition, and destruction of civilian property. The DOJ has opted to seek the death penalty as their crimes were carried out while a member of the military.

Governor Damjana Mariyana, New Atlantica, has been convicted of sedition and accessory to destruction of civilian property, and has been sentenced to 30 years’ federal imprisonment.

Mladan Spartak, Department of Interior employee and League Minister for Corporate Repossession and Distribution, has been convicted on public corruption charges, theft charges, and sedition, and sentenced to 25 years’ federal imprisonment.

Sovann Soth, Department of Interior employee and League Minister of Revolutionary Affairs, has been convicted of sedition and sentenced to 20 years’ federal imprisonment.

The trials of members of the “Solarian Restoration Front” remain pending. A source close to the SANN advised we are likely to see a resolution, “within the year,” at the current rate.

 

Further Articles:

• Callistean Group Sues Navy for Misconduct, Brutality in 2465 Riot
• Monorail Accident on Visegrad Injures 15
• Martian Government Reports Drop in Airborne Phoron for Third Straight Month

[CampinKiller]

 

BREAKING: Southern Reconstruction Mandate Building Overtaken

Article 21 of Dulce et Decorum

The commercial break of a foreign news segment is abruptly interrupted and the words ‘BREAKING NEWS’ flash on the screen, swiping away to reveal Harold MacMillan.

“We interrupt our foreign news hour to bring you this breaking story out of Visegrad. Within the last half hour, an unknown group has assaulted and successfully taken over a Southern Reconstruction Mandate administration building in the heart of Fellegvar. We now go live to our local correspondent, Katarzyna Bołądź, who is on the scene.”

The camera cuts to a Katarzyna, a woman with short brunette hair, and wearing a rain jacket emblazoned with what appears to be lettering in Visegradi Creole. Behind her is a fairly nondescript government office, with a Southern Reconstruction Mandate flag flying overhead and a Visegradi flag underneath it. In front of the building is a significant number of police vehicles and NDF vehicles, all with soldiers and police behind them, focusing on the building.

“Thank you Harold. Around thirty minutes ago, gunshots rang out at this service center, which is right down the road from the main government offices. There’s no official reports yet on how many people are inside, nor who is responsible for the attack, however we can confirm a few deaths – four Solarian Army soldiers assigned to the building were killed, with another few missing. The on-site commander–”

Katarzyna is interrupted by shouting behind her and turns to face the building. The camera zooms in on the flag pole atop the building, and watches as the flags are slowly lowered beyond visibility. After a few moments with no movement, a new flag begins to rise - a plain Visegradi flag with a white star in the center-left triangle.

A gasp could be heard from Katarzyna, “That’s– that’s the flag of the-”

She is again interrupted by shouting, but this time from a speaker system.

“We are liberators fighting for the freedom of the people of Visegrad from the Alliance! Know that we have many civilians under our control inside! If you wish for them to not be harmed, you will release all secessionist freedom fighters. The oppressor Szalai will step down at once. You have 72 hours to meet these demands, or we will begin killing the collaborators we hold!”

Katarzyna turns to face the camera, concern evident on her face.

“Well, we’ve now had many questions answered, namely that the Secessionists are responsible for this attack. We will keep following this as it develops. Back to you, Harold.”

[CampinKiller]

SISA Negotiators Arrive, Secessionists Release Some Hostages

Article 22 of Dulce et Decorum

FELLEGVAR, VISEGRAD – The Solarian Interstellar Security Agency has announced that as of 2AM (GST), negotiators from the SISA field office located on Visegrad had arrived at the site of the ongoing hostage crisis in the government quarter. They began work with the secessionist group located within immediately upon arrival, with a secure line having been set up in the preceding hours. 

While the agency has refused to comment on the specifics of the negotiations so far, it has commended the progress made. Five hostages that have been reported to have “serious wounds,” have been released by the secessionists for medical treatment, in exchange for their manifesto being aired on all local news networks. They have all been identified as civilian government employees who were wounded in the initial assault. One has been released from the hospital, while the rest remain in care.

With 12 hours having passed since the initial demands were made, more information has been coming out regarding the situation. The released hostages and video footage indicates that over a dozen secessionists are inside the building. Estimates put the number of hostages currently held by the group over sixty. Additionally, the names of the four Solarian Army soldiers who were killed have been released - all were native Visegradis. External CCTV footage has revealed the initial shocking moments of the assault, as well as interviews with the released hostages.

“It all happened so fast,” said Stanislaw Dvořák, one of the released hostages, “We were sitting down for a meeting when suddenly we heard gunshots, explosions- followed by at least a dozen armed men screaming. I was shot in the crossfire, in the leg. The doctors said I was lucky though I don’t feel it. I just hope everyone else gets out alive.”

When asked for comment on the crisis, Fleet Admiral Szalai’s office said, “The Fleet Admiral is monitoring the situation closely and working around the clock to bring this to an end. At this time the Admiral has no plans to step aside nor release dangerous traitors to the Alliance back into the streets for them to continue their previous work.”

[CampinKiller]

Hostage Crisis Continues, Szalai Pressed on Demands

Article 23 of Dulce et Decorum

The camera opens to Fleet Admiral Klaudia Szalai behind a podium, flanked by two men: one in a business suit, who some may recognize as Public Security Minister Mariusz Kovacs; the other, in the uniform of the National Defense Force, Commandant Willerich Kozak. Notably Szalai herself is not wearing her typical Solarian Navy uniform, but instead a business suit.

“Good afternoon,” she begins, “I have an update on the ongoing situation just down the street. There has been more progress in negotiations, and SISA negotiators have managed to secure the release of a further seven hostages, the last of those who were seriously wounded in the assault by the secessionist insurgents. This includes the two missing Solarian Army personnel who had been assigned to protect the office. Negotiators are still working around the clock to bring this to a peaceful resolution.”

Seemingly done, a bevy of hands shoot up in the packed room. Szalai nods at one.

“Alojzy Kalinowski, Visegrad News Network. Governor, with the deadline set by the insurgents now under 24 hours away, has there been any movement on their demands or perhaps an extension?”

“SISA’s negotiators have been in constant contact with them and we have made it clear that any sort of prisoner release will take time. Currently there has been no extension, but the second release of wounded hostages is certainly a step in the right direction.”

Hands shoot up again, and Szalai points at another, who stands.

“Liao Qi, Xanu News Service. Governor, by all accounts there’s still at least fifty hostages in the building, is there any word on their condition?”

“From what we have been told from negotiators, as well as the released hostages, the condition of those inside the building is good, and they are in good spirits, despite their situation.”

“With such a large number of hostages, are you worried if you’re forced to act as the deadline approaches?”

“I’m not going to go into detail on contingency plans, but suffice to say, we would prioritize the safety of the hostages first.”

Again, the hands go up, and Szalai nods at another, who stands.

“Andrea Wu, Tau Ceti Times. Governor, the biggest demand from the secessionist group is for your resignation. Is that something you are prepared to do?”

Szalai, who had already been viewing the Biesillite suspiciously, looked as if she wanted to strangle the reporter as she responded, “I’m not even going to entertain your question, it is an unreasonable demand.”

“So you are saying that you will not step down under any circumstances?”

“I am saying I will be saying nothing more about the matter. That’s all I have time for.”

Szalai and the group exit the stage, her final two responses seemingly having kicked off even more questions from the assembled group.

[CampinKiller]

LIVE: Secessionist Deadline Approaches

Article 24 of Dulce et Decorum

The camera opens to Katarzyna Bołądź, who seemingly has had little sleep, standing in front of the besieged building. Behind her remain the same lineup of police and NDF vehicles, albeit with only soldiers in NDF uniforms being visible. A tent stands just to the right of the background, with individuals in jackets emblazoned with SISA in Solarian Common milling about. One is talking on what appears to be a secure phone with a group standing around them.

“Good evening, we are now just under an hour away from the deadline set by the secessionist insurgents. Negotiations appear to still be ongoing,” she motions to the tent behind her, “but we have been told they have become much more difficult since Szalai’s news conference yesterday afternoon. Her noncommittal answer on whether or not she was willing to step down, sources say, incensed the secessionists, and negotiators have frantically been attempting to secure a deadline extension in the preceding hours. To make matters worse, when the group’s manifesto was broadcast on local news channels overnight, it was done in a truncated and garbled manner, further angering them.”

The camera pans right and zooms on the tent, as whatever conversation has been happening has appeared to intensify. Katarzyna waves the cameraman forward, and begins approaching the tent, but is quickly stopped by one of the jacketed SISA agents.

“Right– agent, can you tell us what’s happening now? We’ve seen no evidence of preparations for an assault, has the government elected to meet any of the demands?”

The agent, clearly trying to prevent the reporters from getting any closer, begins leading them away while he answers their questions in a Lunan accent.

“I can tell you that we are still working to secure an extension and the release of more hostages, but I cannot comment on what demands we are and are not willing to meet. It’s been made clear to the insurgents what will happen if they were to begin killing hostages.”

“So am I to understand that there have been preparations made for-”

Two loud bangs interrupt the reporter, whose head whips towards the building. The camera quickly pans to the source of at least one bang: a second-floor balcony overlooking the entrance to the building, where figures clad in black are rappelling down from the roof and entering through a fresh opening where a door once stood. More bangs are heard, and gunfire begins to ring out while the camera continues to roll. 

[CampinKiller]

BREAKING: NDF Brings Crisis to an End

Article 25 of Dulce et Decorum

The camera returns to Katarzyna Bołądź, who for the first time in a few days, seems relieved. The scene behind her features soldiers and police milling about, but without the blockade previously seen. Atop the building again flies the flag of the Southern Reconstruction Mandate and the flag of Visegrad.

“Welcome back. In the preceding hour, we’ve seen, and been told from official sources, the National Defense Force successfully bring this crisis to a swift and dramatic end. For those just joining us, we were broadcasting live as the assault started just about forty-five minutes before the deadline set by the insurgents. What followed was captured live on-air.”

The camera cuts to a replay of the scene, jumping in just as black-clad figures rappelled onto a second-story balcony. The group floods into the opening from the blast that had just occurred, and gunfire is audible. The camera pans right and a second group is entering from a second balcony. To the left, the doors are thrown open, and a disheveled figure in a suit emerges with their hands raised. One of the figures helps him over to the balcony with the soldiers, who then move inside the building. A group of soldiers advance from the barricades and deploy a ladder for the civilian, who quickly climbs down it.

“You’ve just watched the dramatic escape of one of the hostages as the NDF raid on the building began. Official reports have stated that there were fifteen terrorists inside. All have been neutralized, with five of them being in custody. Reportedly, one of the surviving terrorists hid among the hostages and attempted to produce a grenade when confronted, but was quickly overpowered. The gunfire inside the building lasted for a good ten to fifteen minutes before the all-clear was given.”

Katarzyna nods to someone off camera, and is then joined by a man in a National Defense Force field uniform, his rank insignia identifying him as a colonel. Name tape on his right breast pocket reads ‘ABETZ.’

“Joining us now is Colonel Warner Abetz, the commanding officer of the unit responsible for this daring raid. Colonel, thank you for joining us.”

“Of course. I come with good news as well, we have confirmed that all hostages held by the terrorists have been rescued alive. Around a dozen had some minor injuries, but our men were successful in preventing any killing.”

“That’s fantastic news! Were there any casualties for your unit?”

He shakes his head, “There were a few men wounded, but nothing serious. I cannot stress enough how expertly this was carried out.”

“Speaking of, how long was this in the works, and how did you manage to keep things under wraps? We did not know anyone was near the building until we witnessed the beginning stages.”

“I can’t comment on specific details, but within hours of this crisis beginning we began drafting plans for alternative resolutions, should a peaceful approach not be successful. Many men and women were involved, ranging from other units of the NDF to SISA agents, and they all gave their best to get to this outcome and bring these terrorists to justice without further loss of innocent life.”

“Well, we thank you for your time and efforts here, Colonel. Reporting live from Fellegvar, I’m Katarzyna Bołądź, we’ll be right back.”

[NewOriginalSchwann]

Northern Reaches Trials End

Article 26 of Dulce et Decorum

HARMONY CITY, LUNA - Today as of 9PM (GST) the Department of Justice has announced its final verdicts in the Northern Reaches trials against former Solarian military and government officials for alleged crimes committed during the Solarian Civil War. All verdicts relate to the so-called “Solarian Restoration Front,” an Alliance-designated terrorist group first active in 2463 and still present on Lycoris.

Rear Admiral Anton Verglas and Commodore Florentina von Keyserling, both of the 35th Fleet, Admiral Renart Paquet, 32nd Fleet, and Commodore Deng Fa, 33rd Fleet, are among several dozen ex-Navy officers found guilty of treason, desertion, sedition, extermination, forced deportation, the illegal or illegitimate use of force against Solarian citizens, and other crimes not listed here. Due to the severity of the circumstances, the Department of Justice has opted to seek the death penalty.

Governor Thomas Wilks and Lieutenant Governor Richard Andersen, both of Lycoris, have been charged with sedition, operating a forced labor apparatus, labor trafficking, forced deportations, and the denial of civil rights to Solarian citizens. The Department of Justice has likewise opted to seek the death penalty.

Former planetary police commissioner for Lycoris Alexandre Bernard has been charged with sedition, murder of a Solarian government employee (multiple counts), forced deportation, illegitimate use of force against Solarian citizens, and other crimes not listed here. The Department of Justice as likewise opted to seek the death penalty.

Lieutenant General Sophia Zambrano, of the Lycoris System Defense Force, has been charged with treason, accessory to extermination, illegitimate use of force against a Solarian member-state, murder of Solarian military personnel (multiple counts), and other crimes not listed here. The Department of Justice has opted to pursue the death penalty for the severity of these crimes, which were carried out while the charged party was a serving member of the military.

When asked by the SANN for his thoughts on the charges, Attorney General Henri Fontenot provided the following quote:

“As I and the department promised last year, we have delivered the Solarian people justice in the face of unspeakable violence committed against our nation and our citizens by those who once claimed to serve it. It is my supreme hope as your attorney general that we shall move forward as a nation and recognize today as what it is: a victory over evil.”

 

Further Articles:

• Visegradi Authorities Announce Further Arrests Connected to Terrorist Plot
• Solarian and Dominian Navy Announce Successful Joint Bust of Cross-Border Smuggling Operation
• The Light of Liberty’s Reality: Life in Mendell City’s Slums

[NewOriginalSchwann]

SANN LIVE — The Northern Reaches Reconstruction Efforts

Article 27 of Dulce et Decorum

After the SANN jingle finishes and the logo flys off the side of the screen, the camera opens onto the unmistakable visage of Harold MacMillan sitting behind a desk with a PDA on it. The camera zooms in on MacMillan and his Callistean-flag-lapel-featuring suit.

“Welcome back to The State of Sol — as always I’m your host, Harold MacMillan. With the cowardly attack on Visegrad overcome by local police, we go to our reporter in the Northern Reaches. Shufan?”

The left side of the camera swaps to a typical Solarian woman — Shufan Koh, to those experienced with the SANN — standing in front of a construction site wrapped by a cloth screen covered in patriotic slogans. “DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR” can be seen, in part, on it.

“Hello Harold,” Shufan nods politely at the camera.

“I’ve been told you’re in Novi Igman?”

“That’s right, Harold,” Koh gestured to her right, causing Harold to retreat and a middle-aged Slavic man wearing a hardhat to appear standing next to Koh on the sidewalk. “I’m here in an industrial district with Professor Vuk Kostić, a engineering professor working with the government to repair Novi Igman’s infrastructure.”

“Thank you for offering to interview me,” Kostić smiles politely, nodding his head.

“Professor, what was life like during the Civil War?”

“It was, ah, not good, Shufan. We were part of San Colette’s defensive pact, initially, but the Front eventually overcame our defenses.”

“What did they do during the occupation?”

“Look“ Kostić glares at Shufan. His expression has shifted from neutral to irritated. “This interview was supposed to be about reconstruction, can we discuss that and not the occupation?”

“Sure,” Koh looks a bit taken aback by Kostić.

“Thank you,” the professor nearly hisses the words before clearing his throat. “Most of our infrastructure was damaged by the Front, or during the resistance against them. It’s taken us over a year — almost 18 months — to really start to recover our industrial capacity.”

“Why is that?”

“What the Front didn’t take back to Lycoris, they tried to destroy,” Kostić shakes his head. “I suppose they wanted to destroy us alongside them, make our home into a mutual Carthage.”

“A mutual Carthage?”

“To totally destroy us, essentially. It’s something I learned from one of my university colleagues,” Kostić smiles sadly for a moment. “But they did not succeed, and that’s in part due to the bravery of the people here.”

“Thank you, professor,” Koh seems eager to cut the interview now. “As you can see the path to recovery is a long one, but one we’ll reach. Back over to you, Harold.”

The camera transitions back to MacMillan, still sitting at his desk.

“Thank you, Shufan. The State of Sol will be back after this short commercial break — stay tuned!”

[NewOriginalSchwann]

BREAKING: Provisional Government Announces Start of Solarian Elections!

Article 28 of Dulce et Decorum

The camera, after the introduction, zooms in on the unmistakable visage of Harold MacMillan yet again. He slides his PDA to the side and looks at the camera.

 

“Welcome back to The State of Sol. Today we go to Unity Station in Earth’s orbit where our star reporter Céline Eylenbosch has urgent news from the provisional government. Céline?”

 

The camera switches to a fashionable, blonde Cytherean woman standing in a carpeted hallway in front of a fancy wooden door. Eylenbosch looks excited — nearly as excited as she did when reporting on the lead-up to intervention in 2465 — and smiles to the camera.

 

“Hello, dear viewers. As Harold said, we have big news today,” she looks down at her watch, then back up to the camera. “As of fifteen minutes ago, the provisional government has announced the first general election since 2461 will take place starting in November and ending in January of next year.”

 

“Inspiring news!” MacMillan comments.

 

“Exactly, Harold. All Solarians should be happy about this! Our nation has taken a giant step towards healing, and it’s now for the people to decide what the future will bring!” Eylenbosch gestures at the hall of government around her, looking thrilled at the prospect of months of political reporting.

 

“Céline, who’s expected to try for Prime Minister?”

 

“Right now it’s hard to say. Trang and Strom,” despite her general enthusiasm, Eylenbosch cannot hide all of her disdain for the Jintarian when she says his name -- the corner of her mouth twitches slightly, “are likely candidates. Other parties will put their candidates forward too, but there’s been no comment from the social democrats, conservatives, or communists. Yet.”

 

“How’s the mood on Unity Station?”

 

“Oh! There’s only one word to describe it, Harold: elated,” Eylenbosch smiles slyly at the camera. “For three years we’ve been deprived of political excitement, and most reporters I’ve spoken with are eager to get back to work! I, personally, can’t wait to cover this.”

 

“Céline, I’m not as excited as you are, but I’m eager to give our viewers a clear-eyed look at our democracy in action.”

 

Eylenbosch laughs briefly! “Oh, we will Harold! Back over to you.”

 

The camera switches back over to MacMillan at his desk.

“The SANN will offer continuous coverage of the elections, viewers. For now, The State of Sol will be right back after a short commercial break.”

[NewOriginalSchwann]

Populists Name Candidate for ‘67 PM Election!

Article 1 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections

After the typical SANN jingle the camera zooms in on the familiar face of Harold MacMillan behind his desk. He maintains eye contact -- the anchor can certainly maintain a steely gaze -- with the camera as it zooms in, then begins speaking.

“Good evening, and welcome back to The State of Sol. I’m your host, Harold MacMillan. Urgent news has just arrived from Venus, where the Populist Party will shortly announce their candidate. We go now to the Susuhe District and our reporter on-scene, Eberechi Oteh. Eberechi?”

The screen splits, with a darker-skinned man in an assembly hall now standing on the right. The idle noise of the crowd can be heard in the background, but it’s hard to make out any words. A Solarian flag banner can vaguely be seen over Oteh’s right shoulder.

“Hello Harold!” Oteh has a notable Callistean accent. “I’m happy to hear from you.”

“It’s mutual. How’s the atmosphere on Venus?”

“The people here are excited, Harold! We’re only a few minutes from the announcement, and the candidate’s acceptance speech.”

“Any predictions on who it could be?”

“Most people here think it’ll be Governor Strom. There’s been some rumors about Governor Szalai being the nominee after the events on Visegrad, but nothing to confirm it. Hang on,” Oteh puts his finger to his earpiece for a second, then looks at the camera. “The announcement is happening in just a moment, Harold.”

“Right, thank you for covering this.”

“Of course,” both MacMillan and Oteh disappear as the camera switches to a view of the stage. A podium dominates the center, with the backdrop being a massive Solarian flag hologram that flutters in the “wind.” Posts marked with planets of the Alliance — Callisto, Silversun, Visegrad, and more — can be seen in the audience, signifying delegations. The atmosphere is festive, but the audience quiets as the lights dim and the PA begins to broadcast.

“People of the Alliance,” a male voice broadcasts from it, “please welcome your next Prime Minister: HENRIK STROM!!!”

A man in a muted gray business suit walks out from the hologram, waving to the crowd as it erupts into cheers. The Alliance’s anthem plays over the loudspeakers as he approaches the podium, moving with purpose. As he nears it, Hendrik Strom throws his left fist up into the air to wild cheering from the crowd! As he climbs onto the podium he gives one last wave and the cheering fades with his gesture for the crowd to quiet. The Jintarian politician takes a moment to survey the crowd, savoring the moment, and begins speaking.

“My fellow Solarians,” Strom leans into the podium, now looking serious. “The last six years have been some of the hardest faced by our nation since the Interstellar War. Enemies foreign and domestic seized on our temporary weakness: corporations stole our planets, traitors in the military tried to bring down our government, but did they?”

“NO!” yells the crowd.

“They didn't! Because our Alliance is the greatest nation in the Spur — and under my leadership tt will continue to be great!

Strom pauses for a moment to let the cheering die down.

“We will take back our economy from the corporate elite and give it back to the common Solarian! We will secure our borders! And for those Solarians living under occupation, we will come to rescue you!

The crowd cheers again. Some begin chanting Strom’s name, which others quickly pick up and spread throughout the audience.

“Always remember, Strom pauses for effect, letting the crowd's cheer dominant the theater for a few moments, "that a vote for the Populists is a vote for the future of our Alliance! Thank you, and long live the Alliance of Sovereign Solarian Nations!”

Strom raises his right arm with a V for victory symbol as the crowd cheers again! He then begins to work his way off the stage, waving at the crowd, as Hold Us Tight by Just Us, a Jintarian band, plays. The crowd goes wild, cheering and chanting his name as the SANN’s feed cuts out and fades into a commercial break.

[NewOriginalSchwann]

Socialists Announce PM Candidate for ‘67 Election!

Article 2 of WINNER TAKES ALL: The '67 Solarian Federal Elections

The camera, after the SANN jingle, zooms in on the serious-looking face of Harold MacMillan.

“Welcome back to The State of Sol. Today we take you to Cua Song, New Hai Phong, where the Socialist Party is set to shortly announce their candidate for PM. We go now to our reporter on the ground, Le Quynh Cong. Quynh?”

The camera switches to a typical Hai Phongese woman standing in an auditorium with Solarian flags hanging from the ceiling. Quynh is bespectacled with short hair, and is wearing a rebreather around her neck that’s been pulled down to show her face — a common sight on the pollution and dust-covered Solarian world. She nods her head to the camera.

“Hi Harold! The atmosphere’s electric here in Cua Song, everyone’s excited to see the Socialist Party’s candidate for PM.”

“Any predictions?”

“Most people think it’ll be Senator Trang! The governors are too, ah, controversial,” Quynh wiggles her eyebrows a bit, trying to imply something, “I heard a bit about them, but nothing suitable for broadcast.”

“That fits what I know,” MacMillan laughs for a moment. “Any other potential candidates?”

Quynh shakes her head. “Nobody aside from Trang’s been able to get influence over the Socialists, so she’s pretty much the only one.”

“Citizens of the Alliance,” a female voice broadcasts over the PA. Quynh gives a signal to the camera, which switches to a view of the stage. “The Socialist Party’s candidate and your next Prime Minister: Le Hanh Trang!”

Cheers erupt from the audience as a middle-aged Hai Phongese woman in a black suit walks from the side of the stage to a podium, waving as she approaches it. A chant of “LE HANH TRANG!” comes up from the audience as she approaches. The Senator clasps her hands together and shakes them above her head, motioning for quiet as she mounts the podium and begins to speak.

“My fellow Solarians,” Trang begins. “We stand now on the brink of our Alliance’s triumph over corporate greed and domination!

Trang stops a moment to allow the cheering to subside.

“The Socialist Party has given you, the citizens of the Alliance, a victory over NanoTrasen, over Zavodskoi, over Zeng-Hu,” Trang pauses for dramatic effect.

“But!” Trang raises a finger and points it out into the audience. “Our duty is not yet done! Billions of Solarians just like you and me are forced to work under the thumb of Hephaestus Industries and their toady subsidiaries, who take our money and send it to their alien fiefdom while replacing our workers with their synthetics! And to this I say,” Trang pauses, looking around for a moment, then crosses her arms into an X! “No more!

More cheering erupts.

“If I am elected as your next PM, I will take the fight to Hephaestus!” Trang slams her fist into the podium!

“I will fight for the Solarian worker!” Trang slams her fist into the podium again! The crowd has begun chanting her name.

“And I will stop aliens and synthetics from taking over our jobs and our country! Thank you!” Trang throws both hands up into Vs for victory. The crowd goes wild, chanting her name and yelling. The senator looks beyond pleased at this reception, standing there and basking in it as the feed switches to a commercial break.