Eldoria and I

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟏: 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐭

The morning sun filtered through the windows of the SJCOE Building in Remdant City, casting a stark light on the gathered officials. Chief Justice Brian Crawford stood at the podium, his expression grave. Beside him, members of the Remdant Capital Police maintained a solemn vigil.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Chief Justice Crawford began, his voice resonating through the chamber, "in light of the tragic events that have claimed the lives of our President, Vice President, and key government officials, making the Presidential line of succession useless, that is why we the Supreme Judicial Court of Eldoria hereby orders the position of the President to be vacated."

Gasps and murmurs of surprise spread through the crowd. Crawford continued, his tone unwavering. "To ensure the continuity of governance and the stability of our nation, we will establish the 'Council of Presidents' (COPs). This council will consist of selected members who will carry out the remaining term of President Brown."

The announcement sent shockwaves through the city and beyond. As the news spread, the General Assembly convened in a state of urgency. Representatives filled the chamber, their faces a mix of confusion, anger, and determination. Elandria Felora, the former President and current Representative, stood to address them.

"This is treason," she declared, her voice ringing with indignation. "This is a coup, a power grab. This is not what was envisioned when I stepped down. This is HIGH TREASON!"

The chamber erupted in a cacophony of voices, some echoing her outrage, others calling for order. Representative Martin Clive rose to speak. "We must address this with the gravity it deserves. Chief Justice Crawford's decision undermines our democratic principles."

Another voice, Representative Selena Marlow, chimed in. "We must act swiftly to challenge this move. The General Assembly cannot be sidelined in such a manner."

Elandria nodded, her expression fierce. "We need to form a united front. We cannot let this stand. Our nation's future depends on our response."

Back at the SJCOE Building, Chief Justice Crawford continued outlining the structure and purpose of the COPs. "This council will be composed of respected leaders from various sectors of our society. Their primary role will be to stabilize the government and ensure a smooth transition of power when the time comes."

Meanwhile, in the Assembly, Representative Clive proposed a course of action. "We should immediately seek an injunction to halt the formation of this council. Our judicial system must respect the legislative process and the will of the people."

Representative Marlow agreed. "Yes, and we must also mobilize public support. The people of Eldoria need to know that their elected representatives are fighting for their rights and their democracy."

Elandria stepped forward again. "I will lead the charge. We need to remind Chief Justice Crawford and his supporters that Eldoria is a republic, governed by laws and the will of its citizens. We will not be silenced AGAIN!."

The General Assembly, galvanized by Elandria's leadership, prepared to take their fight to the courts and the public. Outside, crowds began to gather, their voices rising in protest against what they saw as an affront to their democratic values.

As the day unfolded, Eldoria stood on the brink of a new chapter in its history. The battle lines were drawn, and the struggle for the soul of the nation was about to begin. Elandria Felora, once again at the forefront, knew that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges. But she also knew that the spirit of Eldoria was unbreakable, and together, they would defend their beloved republic against all threats, foreign and domestic.

***

Reps. Elandria Felora marched into the SJCOE Building with a determination that radiated through the halls. Her footsteps echoed as she approached the office of Chief Justice Brian Crawford, a man she once considered a trusted friend and ally in the formation of the republic just two years ago. She burst through the doors, her eyes blazing with fury.

"This is treason, Brian," Elandria declared, her voice trembling with rage. "Why YOU? You are the highest judicial authority. Your job is to ensure stability, not to usher in another tyranny, you have said in your own mouth, that we must uphold the values we founded"

Chief Justice Crawford met her gaze steadily, though a hint of regret flickered in his eyes. "I'm sorry, Elandria, but the Council of Presidents will continue. The Armed Forces of Eldoria (AFE) have already pledged their loyalty to it."

Elandria's face contorted in disbelief. "What? Kristan would never do that! He is loyal to the people!"

Crawford's expression turned grim. "Kristan is dead. I ordered it."

Elandria gasped, the color draining from her face. "You are mad, You are a SERPANT. This is TREASON! I am the Founding Mother. You will pay for this!"

Two soldiers stepped forward, flanking Elandria. She glared at Crawford, her voice a whisper now, laden with betrayal. "I trusted you. We all did. What happened to the ideals we fought for?"

Crawford's voice was cold. "The ideals remain, but the path to uphold them has changed. You will understand in time."

Elandria struggled as the soldiers took her by the arms. "This isn't over, Brian. The people will rise. You can't silence the voice of Eldoria."

As she was escorted out, Elandria looked back one last time, seeing the man who had once been her closest confidant now standing as her adversary. The doors of the SJCOE Building closed behind her, and with them, a chapter of trust and unity in Eldoria's history.

Outside, the sun was setting, casting long shadows over Remdant City. The streets were filled with people, their faces a mix of confusion and defiance. The air was thick with tension, as rumors of the coup spread like wildfire. Elandria, despite her current predicament, felt a surge of hope. She knew that the spirit of Eldoria was strong, and the battle for its soul was just beginning.

Back in his office, Chief Justice Crawford watched from the window, his heart heavy with the weight of his decisions. He whispered to himself, "Forgive me, Elandria. This is the only way I see to protect our republic."

But deep down, even he was unsure of the path he had chosen. The night ahead promised more challenges, and the fate of Eldoria hung in a delicate balance. The struggle between justice and power, between loyalty and betrayal, was far from over.

THE END....

As we close the short chapters on 'Book 3: Eldoria and I', we've witnessed the tumultuous rise and fall of President Brown, and a Serpent's ascent to power. What lies ahead for Eldoria remains to be seen. You may want to visit the ongoing fourth Installment the 'Book 4: We Are Eldorians' a story of a hero.

For updates and information on the Republic of Eldoria, please visit the Eldorian Archives at https://eldorian-archives.fandom.com/wiki/Eldorian_Archives

-Malik Draegan