Aarav Mansoor stared at the other high-ranking members of RTL and waited for silence to fall at the table. Once all eyes were on him, he read the news article aloud from the screen in front of him.
Emancipation House was struck yesterday by a coordinated terrorist attack that saw at least five prominent members of our government killed and many more injured.
The attack, which is believed to have been orchestrated and executed by the terrorist organisation, Right to Life, has left a hole in the heart of our nation. The bombing took place in Emancipation House’s southernmost building, during a budget conference. Arnold Mollings, the Treasurer for our nation, was amongst the dead, along with his son, Francis Mollings, the Senior Home Secretary. At least two additional members of the government syndicate were killed in the attack, leading to speculation that RTL were attempting to dismantle the very systems kept in place to ensure our safety as a nation.
The city of Langton Main remains in shock and mourning, as our hardworking fire and rescue teams continue to clear the debris.
It is yet unclear who will take the places of the deceased syndicate members to return the government to its full twelve officials, but speculators believe Elizabeth Cransmith, niece of Alexander Carson, who also perished in the attack will be first in line for consideration of the senior position for the Department of Labour and Workforce. While nothing concrete has been confirmed, a government spokesperson had this to say.
“It is such tragic news that a despicable organisation such as RTL could conspire to dismantle our government. The perpetrators will be held accountable. We will not rest until we have justice. While the passing of four Syndicate Members is tragic, our citizens can rest assured that talks are scheduled to fill the gaps, and our government will once again be strong and whole.”
As a side note, the government would like to address accusations that figurehead position elections are unfair. Mary Goulding, Department of Justice, had this to say.
“The New American government has a system of election that is fair and impartial, and is beneficial to all legitimate citizens of New America. We strive to uphold our laws, and it pains me to think that less educated members of society believe this is anything other than a fair democracy. Our votes for those who join us in power are cast with great care and great consideration of the best interests of our country. The system of election will remain fair and impartial, however, only those who meet the strict criteria are eligible to apply.”
Aarav slammed the tablet computer down on the desk and sneered. “They’re like Hydra. Cut one head off and another grows in its place.” He looked around the room of RTL leaders. “How is it a fair and just system if they only elect family members? Those corrupt, greedy bastards hoard the wealth and keep the power for themselves, and they call it fair because there is a voting system in place. Only those already in power get a damn vote!”
He stared around the room; his lips pressed into a grim line. “We need to do more. We need to bring this government to its knees.”
To hear more about RTL, the New American government, and the country of New America, check out the series Almost Human, by Ashleigh Reverie and also coming soon: Right to Life, the long-awaited spin-off series to Almost Human.
Ashleigh Reverie Author 