Demokracy: Nation Awaits

Chapter 74: Day of Sorrows

Aqua 17, 1942

The nation of Eldoria was cloaked in mourning. Flags were draped in black, and purple ribbons adorned the streets of Remdant City. Today marked the second anniversary of the tragic loss of two of Eldoria's most beloved figures: Former President Alexandra Felora, the nation's fourth president, and her husband, Former First Gentleman Jameson Hive. Their lives were taken abruptly two years ago in a devastating helicopter crash orchestrated by the now-defunct Aegarian Rebellion, known as "The Reybels."

At the heart of Remdant City, the Felora'n Palace stood solemn and imposing against a cloudy sky, its grand entrance adorned with black and purple banners symbolizing grief and remembrance. A large, purple-draped podium had been set up just outside the palace steps, where citizens and government officials gathered in somber silence. President Denver Brooks was set to address the crowd, his expression heavy with the weight of memory and responsibility.

The crowd was a mix of government officials, military personnel, and ordinary citizens who had come to pay their respects to a leader they had admired. Murmurs of shared sorrow filled the air, accompanied by the occasional sound of soft crying from those who had felt the loss most deeply. As President Brooks stepped up to the podium, a hush fell over the crowd.

"Citizens of Eldoria," Brooks began, his voice resonant but edged with sadness, "today we stand united in memory of two great souls, President Alexandra Felora and her husband, Jameson Hive. They were more than public figures; they were symbols of resilience, love, and dedication to this great nation."

He paused, looking out at the somber faces before him. "President Felora was a visionary. She believed in a stronger, more inclusive Eldoria and worked tirelessly to bring that vision to life. Jameson was her partner in every sense, supporting her through every hardship and standing by her side until the very end. Together, they made history."

The crowd listened, enraptured, many with heads bowed in reverence.

"Their loss two years ago left a void in our hearts," Brooks continued, his voice thickening with emotion. "But as we grieve, we must remember the legacy they left behind. Their love for Eldoria endures, and their vision lives on in each of us. Let us honor their memory by carrying forward the work they began, by holding to the ideals they cherished, and by standing united as they would have wanted us to."

As he finished his speech, the crowd broke into a respectful, subdued applause, many wiping away tears. Brooks stepped down from the podium, making way for Elandria Felora, the Founding Mother of Eldoria and mother to the late Alexandra Felora. As she approached the podium, the silence deepened, for everyone knew the depth of her sorrow. She wore a long, black gown trimmed with purple, her silver hair pulled back with dignity and grace.

Taking a steadying breath, Elandria began, her voice steady yet filled with a sorrow that only a mother could know. "Today, I stand before you as a mother, a grandmother, and a citizen of Eldoria. It is difficult—" she paused, holding back tears— "to accept the loss of my only child. Alexandra was more than a daughter; she was my pride and joy, a beacon of strength, and a source of hope for our nation."

She took another deep breath, composing herself before continuing. "I am still recovering, and perhaps I never will. But I find strength in knowing that Alexandra's spirit lives on through her son, my grandson, young Constantine. He is just eight years old now, but I know that one day, he will come to understand his parents' legacy and the impact they made on Eldoria."

The crowd stood silent, moved by Elandria's words. She cast her gaze out over them, her expression softened by a mixture of grief and pride. "Eldoria, let us continue to honor Alexandra and Jameson by ensuring that their legacy endures. For it is through us, through our unity and our dedication, that their dream for a better Eldoria lives on."

As she finished, Elandria nodded, and the audience erupted in gentle applause, honoring her courage and the memory of her daughter and son-in-law. Afterward, the gathered officials and citizens laid wreaths at the steps of Felora'n Palace, a final gesture of respect before dispersing.

Later that afternoon, President Brooks held a private meeting in the palace with Dianna Felora, the mayor of Remdant City. Dianna, a woman of poise and conviction, was Alexandra's cousin and had been elected as mayor in 1938 during the administration of Denver's father, the late President Nathaniel Brooks. Since then, Dianna had earned her reputation as a dedicated and resourceful leader, driven not by the weight of her family's legacy but by her commitment to the people of Remdant City.

As Dianna entered the meeting room, President Brooks rose to greet her. "Dianna, thank you for coming," he said, offering a warm but somber smile.

"Of course, Denver," she replied, taking a seat. "Today was... emotional, to say the least."

He nodded in agreement, his expression reflecting the heaviness of the day. "I won't take much of your time," he began, his tone more formal now. "I wanted to speak with you about the upcoming election."

Dianna gave a knowing nod. "I suspected as much."

Denver leaned forward, choosing his words carefully. "Dianna, your leadership in Remdant City has been exemplary. The people respect you—not just because of your name, but because of the dedication you've shown. I believe Eldoria needs a leader like you, especially now."

Dianna looked thoughtful, but a hint of reluctance shadowed her expression. "Denver, I appreciate your confidence in me. Truly, it means a lot coming from you. But... I'm not sure this is the right time. I've only just begun to make strides here in Remdant City, and the people have entrusted me with their faith for two more terms. I can't abandon them now."

"Dianna," Denver pressed gently, "you're not abandoning anyone. Eldoria as a whole needs someone who understands both the heart of this nation and the complexities of leadership. You have that balance."

She shook her head, smiling sadly. "Maybe someday, Denver. But right now, my place is here, with Remdant City. The nation needs leaders, yes, but I believe I can serve just as well in my current role. Besides, I owe it to Constantine to stay grounded—he's still young, and he needs family close by."

President Brooks sighed, understanding her reasoning but unable to completely hide his disappointment. "I respect your decision, Dianna. And, selfishly, I'm grateful that Remdant will continue to have such a dedicated mayor. Just know that if you ever change your mind, Eldoria would be honored to have you lead."

Dianna reached across the table, placing a hand on his. "Thank you, Denver. That means more than you know. And I promise, when the time is right, I'll consider it."

With that, they concluded their meeting, each feeling the weight of the choices they had to make. Dianna left the palace that evening with a renewed sense of purpose for her city, while President Brooks watched her go, contemplating the future of Eldoria and the leaders it would need in the years to come.

As darkness fell over Remdant City, the lights of the Felora'n Palace shone bright—a beacon for the people, a testament to the legacy of Alexandra and Jameson, and a reminder of the strength Eldoria would need to face whatever challenges lay ahead.