The Revolution Came

Intermission: Reformation

March 6th, 1935
National Convention Hall

The murmurs of Congressmen and Senators filled the grand chamber as Cody Rivera adjusted his bow tie and shuffled through his documents. The recent events in Heltic lingered in his mind, not just the rebellion's suppression but the unsettling feeling of being watched, a shadow trailing his every move. He had returned home after the ordeal, embracing his wife and children, realizing in that moment that his duty extended beyond the battlefield. If the Republic was to survive the challenges ahead, it needed more than just soldiers; it needed a stronger, more structured force.

The proposal for the National Veteranus Guard was his answer. A military unit that would act as a specialized force within the Republic's armed services, ensuring internal stability without undermining the National Guard, which had proven its worth since the Revolutionary War. He was not alone in this endeavor; Senator Torenda, a strong advocate for military reform, had lent her full support, helping refine the bill into something that could gain traction in the National Convention.

As the chamber settled, a voice rang through the hall.

"We call Secretary Rivera to take the stand," announced Senator Venator, presiding over the session.

Cody rose, his polished boots echoing against the marble floor as he approached the podium. He scanned the chamber, taking in the expressions of the gathered lawmakers, some curious, others skeptical. He knew that this was not just a military debate but a political battlefield.

"Honorable members of Congress," Cody began, his voice steady. "The rebellion in Heltic has been crushed, but at great cost. We lost two decorated commanders, veterans of the Revolutionary War, men who bled for this Republic. We lost two-thirds of the National Guard forces stationed at Brooksville when the prison was stormed. It was not just a battle but a lesson, a warning of the dangers that still lurk within our borders."

The chamber grew silent. Even the usual whispers between party members had ceased.

"The National Guard has always served bravely, and the Army remains our shield against foreign threats. But in times of crisis, we need a force that can act swiftly, one that bridges the gap between military discipline and internal security. The National Veteranus Guard is that force."

He let his words sink in before continuing.

"This is not about replacing or undermining the National Guard. It is about reinforcing our ability to respond effectively to rebellion, terrorism, and insurrection, without stretching our military to its limits. The Veteranus Guard will complement the National Army, ensuring that our Republic remains secure without compromising its democratic foundations."

As Cody spoke, he observed the silent reactions from the different factions within the chamber.

The Nationalists sat upright, their expressions unreadable. They had long pushed for military expansion, seeing a strong armed force as the backbone of a unified Republic. Some, like Senator Torenda, nodded in agreement, while others waited cautiously, assessing how much power this new force would wield.

The Communists exchanged whispers. They had always been wary of militarization, fearing it would lead to authoritarianism. Senator Garcia, one of their most vocal members, folded his arms, skeptical. He would demand guarantees that this new force would not be used to suppress workers' movements or dissent.