Some time later…
Gort Hower, Representative of Horage walked out onto the stage and took his place in front of the podium at the press conference. The sea of reporters in the crowd began bombarding him with the flashes of their cameras, already eager to get a good picture. Once the incessant blinks started to settle, he began.
“I’m sure there are a lot of questions after this morning’s sudden announcement. That is why I have called you all here to clarify a few aspects.”
“The most pressing feedback we’ve received was how it was possible, whether it went against the regulations and policies set forth by the Central Peace at its founding. And it’s true. We are moving forward with this despite not meeting the requirement that all countries be a part of the Central Peace. The nation of Fiendish has held fast in their refusal to join.”
“However, what is a nation without a ruler? And with the Fiendish King in custody, with no knowledge of when or if he’ll ever be released, the Central Peace has elected to ignore Fiendish’s status as a country, demoted to an independent territory, until such a time that it has restored its government.”
“This was not a decision that was made lightly, and it is the result of endless sessions of discussions and voting. And finally, today, the vote passed unanimously. This is what is best for the Central Peace, for all of us moving forward. This will set us back on the right path.”
“Ever since the Fiend attack on Central Peace headquarters a few months ago, our organization has been in disarray. And I’ll say it, we were even on the verge of collapse. But in my opinion, it was the best thing for us. Not to disregard the sacrifice of those that lost their lives in the attack, but it was a crucial turning point for everyone.”
“It pointed out the flaws in our securities, our policies, and divided us as a people unlike anything the world has seen since the Drazah War. Public outcry against Fiends has skyrocketed. Those just wanting to live their lives were terrified for their well being. Because if their leaders aren’t safe, then what’s to say they are. I’ve had countless supporters reach out, pleading that I denounce Fiends as a race. And yet... I’ve refused.”
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“I know better than anyone how dangerous Fiends are. Because only when they reached the door in front of my office was that Fiend finally stopped, coming for my head. But I am a firm believer that one’s actions do not condemn another. A bad Fiend doesn’t make them all evil.”
“What we need now isn’t division, but unification! Fiends have their place in the world. I truly believe that. But not with our current system. They need to be registered, monitored, their powers regulated and used for the good of Rathe. That is the way forward!”
“We can not stand idly by and let them continue as their own world super power. They’ve already proven that we can’t defeat them with strength. Militaries around the world were crippled by the tragedy of Bastion, and now alone, they’re weaker then ever.”
“That is why we need to change tactics. If we can’t stop them with might, then we’ll control them with policy, with laws, give them someone to answer to. We will stand together, not as a collection of countries, but as one unified people, as humans. And we will tell them, ‘You don’t rule this world, but you’re welcome to share it. Just follow us along to a better tomorrow!’”
“And what we need at the center of this unity is someone to man the helm, to steer Rathe in the right direction. A single voice to cut above the noise, the divide—one who has proven themselves to lead, to make Rathe the best place it can be. And not just for humanity, but for all its denizens. That is why this vote was passed, and that is why I’ve asked you all here.”
“I’m sure many of you have already suspected this, and now I will confirm it. Yes, I will be throwing my name into the ring in the upcoming election. Here and now, for all to witness, I, Gort Hower, announce my candidacy for President of Rathe!”
To be continued…
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In the final volume! Volume 5: Boon
A wish granted, but what good did it bring? Many would point to that moment as what started the downfall—politicians scheming for their own ends, radical terrorists left unchecked, those marked as ‘Fiends’ fearing for their lives. And everyday citizens are caught between it all. Those whom they pray to for salvation are nowhere to be found. It’s all falling apart. Or… is everything going to plan?
But before the Fiends For Hire can unveil their grand design, they are tasked with one last request: ‘Please, take over the world!’