New Eldoria

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟑𝟎: 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐬

Tempestas 5, 1939, dawned with a somber silence that gripped Eldoria like a heavy fog. As the nation awoke to the news, the Official Emblem of the President appeared across all televisions in Eldoria, casting a solemn shadow over every home and public space. The emblem, a symbol of authority and national pride, now served as a grim reminder of the nation's grief.

Minister Sophie Martin of Communications and Media (MCM) took the stage at the Great Hall of the Felora'n Palace, her expression a mixture of professionalism and sorrow. The purple podium she stood behind seemed almost to absorb the weight of the moment. As the cameras rolled and the lights illuminated her, she took a deep breath, her voice steady but tinged with the gravity of her announcement.

"Ladies and Gentlemen," she began solemnly, "we approach you today with heavy hearts and grave news. This morning, the Felora'n Palace and the Ministry of Communications and Media were informed by the Valens Provincial Medical Board, also known as the VPROM Board, that President Nathaniel Brooks has passed away at the Valens Provincial Hospital."

A collective gasp seemed to ripple through the nation as the news sank in. The cameras cut to images of the Felora'n Palace and the somber faces of the citizens gathered outside, their expressions a mirror of the grief that swept across Eldoria.

"President Brooks, who has served with dedication and strength, succumbed to the injuries sustained in the recent attack," Martin continued, her voice unwavering as she conveyed the heart-wrenching news. "His passing marks the end of a chapter for our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of immense sorrow."

The screen shifted to show photos of President Brooks from his time in office—moments of leadership, of triumph, and of connection with the people. It was a visual tribute to a leader who had become a symbol of resilience.

"Meanwhile," Martin added, her gaze steady but reflecting the strain of the announcement, "Vice President Rico Gourd remains in a coma. There are no further updates at this time regarding his condition. The nation awaits news, but as of now, we are in a state of uncertainty."

The camera panned to the empty corridors of the Valens Provincial Hospital, where medical staff and security personnel stood watch. The image was stark and poignant, a visual representation of the uncertainty that now enveloped the nation.

As the broadcast continued, the news was met with an outpouring of grief and reflection. Citizens gathered in public squares, in homes, and in places of worship, coming together to honor the late President Brooks and to hold vigil for Vice President Gourd.

Back at the Felora'n Palace, the atmosphere was one of mourning and contemplation. The halls that once resonated with the sound of bustling activity were now filled with a quiet, respectful stillness. Acting President James Ford, in his temporary role, prepared to address the nation and navigate the uncertain path ahead.

Following the televised announcement, the Office of the President of Eldoria (OTPE) and the Office of the Ministry of Communications and Media issued a statement for publication and distribution throughout the nation, complemented by a release from the official gazette.

The announcement of President Nathaniel Brooks' passing had left a profound impact on the nation, and the grief was palpable as it reached every corner of Eldoria. Outside the Valens Provincial Hospital, a poignant scene unfolded that captured the nation's collective sorrow.

First Lady Giovanni Brooks stood before a gathering of media and mourners, her face etched with anguish. Her eyes, once full of strength and resolve, were now red and swollen from tears. The cameras, focused on her, broadcasted the raw emotion she was experiencing.

In her trembling voice, Giovanni Brooks began to speak. "My beloved Nathaniel's last words were, 'Thank you Giovanni and Thank you Eldoria.' These words will remain with me forever," she said, her voice breaking. "He dedicated his life to serving this great nation, and he loved you all with all his heart."

As the cameras continued to roll, Giovanni's composure faltered further. She began to cry uncontrollably, her tears a visible testament to the depth of her grief. The weight of the moment was overwhelming, and soon she collapsed in front of the gathered crowd, her sorrow a mirror of the nation's collective heartbreak.

The Presidential Secret Task Force (PSTF) swiftly moved to shield her from the cameras, drawing a respectful curtain around her. The media, recognizing the gravity of the situation, complied with the PSTF's request and refrained from broadcasting further, allowing Giovanni the privacy and dignity she needed in her moment of mourning.

Inside the HOME Building, the atmosphere was markedly different. The halls that had once been vibrant with political activity now echoed with urgency and preparation. The Commission on Electoral Affairs (CEA) was already in full motion, organizing the necessary steps for an imminent election.

High Commissioner Gabriel Bouchard, head of the CEA, held a series of meetings with key officials and representatives. The discussions were centered around the procedural aspects of holding a swift and orderly election to fill the vacant office of President. "We must ensure that the transition of power is smooth and in accordance with our constitution," Bouchard stated firmly during a briefing. "Our nation looks to us for stability and clarity during this difficult time."

The CEA worked diligently to finalize the election timetable, coordinate with electoral bodies, and prepare for the campaign process. Every detail was scrutinized to ensure that the upcoming election would be conducted with the utmost transparency and integrity.

As the nation grieved the loss of its President and awaited updates on Vice President Rico Gourd, the focus shifted to ensuring that Eldoria's democratic processes continued without interruption. The preparations for the election were a crucial step in moving forward, as the country faced the challenge of honoring the legacy of President Brooks while navigating the uncertainties of the future.