Demokracy: Nation Awaits

Chapter 53: Bombings

Ignis 22, 1942

The dawn was still breaking when a deafening explosion shattered the calm of Remdant City. At precisely dawn of the morning, the bustling Remdant Public Market (RPM) was torn apart by a series of coordinated bombings, targeting key areas where vendors, merchants and early risers had gathered to start their day. The aftermath was a scene of devastation and chaos—smoke billowed into the sky, debris scattered across the once-lively streets, and the sound of sirens filled the air as emergency services rushed to the scene. The toll was grim: 34 lives lost, 105 injured, and an entire city shaken to its core.

President Denver Brooks, jolted awake by the news, wasted no time in summoning the National Security Council (NSC) to the Felora'n Palace. The situation was dire, and the weight of the moment was heavy upon him. By mid morning, the key members of the NSC had gathered in the Situation Room, their faces reflecting the urgency and gravity of the crisis.

Vice President Imelda Watson was the first to arrive, her expression tense. "This is a direct attack on our people, Mr. President. We need to act swiftly and decisively."

Chief of Capital Police Gerald Tarn, his uniform crisp and his demeanor resolute, nodded in agreement. "We're already deploying all available units of the Remdant Capital Police (RCP) to secure the market area and assist with the evacuation. But we need more than just containment. We need to find out who did this."

AFE Chief of Staff General Duncan Beaumont, a seasoned military leader with decades of experience, leaned forward. "This kind of attack, coordinated and executed with precision, suggests a level of sophistication we haven't seen in years. We should be looking at all potential threats, both internal and external."

As they spoke, Minister Elena Vidal of Health and Wellness (MHW) entered the room, her face etched with concern. "We've already mobilized the National Emergency Response Teams (NERTs)," she reported. "Our hospitals are on high alert, and we've set up triage stations near the market to handle the influx of casualties. But we need more resources. The situation is overwhelming."

President Brooks, his hands clasped tightly on the table, took a deep breath. "Thank you, Elena. Your team is doing crucial work. We'll make sure you have everything you need."

The room fell silent as EIA Director Olga Riverbanks, known for her sharp instincts and keen analytical mind, cleared her throat. "Mr. President," she began, her voice measured, "we've been monitoring potential threats leading up to the election. My early suspicion, based on the nature of this attack and its timing, is that this could be the work of one of the presidential candidates. Specifically, someone with a vested interest in destabilizing the current administration."

The room erupted in a flurry of reactions. Vice President Watson was the first to speak, her voice laced with disbelief. "Are you suggesting that one of the candidates might be behind this? That's a serious accusation, Olga."

"I understand the gravity of what I'm saying, Madam Vice President," Riverbanks replied, her gaze steady. "But consider the facts: The attack is well-timed, targeting a civilian location in the heart of the capital, designed to create fear and undermine the government's authority. It's not just a random act of violence; it's a calculated move."

General Beaumont's brow furrowed as he processed the information. "If this is true, we're dealing with a level of treachery that could tear the country apart. We need to get to the bottom of this, and quickly."

President Brooks, his face grim, nodded in agreement. "We can't jump to conclusions, but we also can't ignore the possibility. Olga, I want the EIA to prioritize this investigation. Work with the RCP and all relevant agencies to track down every lead. I want suspects identified, connections made, and answers found. We cannot allow our nation to be held hostage by fear."

"Yes, Mr. President," Riverbanks replied, her tone resolute. "We'll begin immediately. I'll personally oversee the operation."

"Good," Brooks said, turning to Chief Tarn. "Gerald, I want the RCP to coordinate closely with Olga's team. Increase security throughout Remdant City. We need to reassure the public that we have this under control."

"Understood, Mr. President," Tarn responded. "We'll double our patrols and set up checkpoints at all major entry and exit points in the city. We'll also enhance surveillance around critical infrastructure."

Minister Vidal added, "Our hospitals are prepared, but we'll need ongoing support for the victims and their families. This tragedy will have long-lasting effects on the community."

"We'll make sure the necessary resources are allocated," Brooks assured her. He then addressed the room, his voice firm and commanding. "This attack is an assault on everything we stand for—our freedom, our security, our way of life. But we will not be intimidated. We will respond with strength and unity. The people of Eldoria are counting on us, and we will not let them down."

As the meeting continued, plans were set into motion, with each member of the NSC taking on critical responsibilities to address the crisis. The room buzzed with activity as phones rang, orders were given, and strategies were formulated. The stakes had never been higher, and the clock was ticking.

As the meeting drew to a close, President Brooks stood, his expression resolute. "Let's show them that Eldoria does not bow to terror. We will find those responsible, and they will face justice. This is our nation, our people, and we will protect them."

With that, the members of the NSC dispersed, each heading off to fulfill their roles in the massive response effort. The attack on the Remdant Public Market had shaken the nation, but it had also galvanized its leaders. The battle to uncover the truth had begun, and the resilience of Eldoria would soon be put to the test.