2032 - A Year in the Andromeda Islands

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

OOC: This thread reflects eleven months in the life of the Andromeda Archipelago. An election thread will be posted in the Factbook board @ the end of October. Enjoy!

The Southern Face of Mount Hephaestus
Todd’s Cove State, Allied States
Wednesday, December 31, 2031
11:30 pm

Every year, on New Year’s Eve, hiking parties hike trails to points on Mount Hephaestus that overlook the Portsmouth Metropolitan Area. Most of the people in this particular hiking party happen to be female.


Mt. Hephaestus is the highest point in the Allied States.

Among those in the hiking party are two ladies who spent their college careers together at the University of Portsmouth. One of them, Jane Leiter, is currently an investigative reporter for the Andromeda News Network in Angeles City. The other woman, Stephanie Brandt, is a member of the national legislature, the Assembly of the Allied States. Both women played basketball at the University of Portsmouth. Since their university days, they have maintained an intimate, if discreet, relationship.

The hiking party has arrived at a camp site and set up camp for the night. The campers are now gathered around a fire, awaiting the ringing in of the New Year. In the distance are the lights of Portsmouth and the shimmering waters of the Great Sea.

As food cooks over the camp fire, Leiter and Brandt talk to each other about their futures.

“You know, Steph, we wouldn’t have to go on hiking trips like this if we lived in Angeles City.”

Stephanie Brandt is currently the sole Social Democrat in the Beta City delegation to the Assembly of the Allied States.

“Steph, we could be who we are. We wouldn’t have to hide.”

Stephanie Brandt turns to Leiter.

“It’s not that.” As Brandt answers, Leiter strokes her hair. “The truth is, I’m just not sure.”

Leiter stops running her fingers through Brandt’s hair.

“What’s not to be sure about? Beta City is behind the times. The Law says that what we have is okay.”

“Not everyone agrees with the Law. Beta City is not Angeles City. Beta City isn’t open to a relationship like ours.”

Leiter stares out toward the lights of Portsmouth.

“Besides, I like these trips.”

Leiter takes Brandt’s hand.

“You know, there is a way, Steph. We don’t have to be so discreet.”

“How?”

“I could come to Andromeda City.”

“With ANN?”

The Andromeda News Network, known nation-wide as ANN, is one of the three major news networks in the Allied States.

“No. As an Assembly member.”

“You want to run for the Assembly?”

“I’ve reported corruption in Angeles City and Andromeda City. We need to do more about it. I think I can do more about the corruption in the Assembly.”

Brandt thinks about it for a moment.

“Steph, after redistricting, Angeles City will have open seats this year. Someone has to run for those seats.”

As an investigative reporter, Leiter helped to expose the corrupt combination that ran Angeles City government. Leiter has also exposed corruption in both the Assembly Plaza and World Assembly Territory.

“You sure you want to join us? Us corrupt politicians?”

Brandt smiles.

“You’re not all corrupt. Some of you fight the good fight.”

The guide stands up and yells.

“Everyone. 20 seconds.”

The women look out at the Portsmouth skyline. Once the New Year commences, fireworks will appear over Portsmouth. The crowd looks down on Portsmouth and starts to count.

“5...4...3...2...1...zero!”


Happy New Year!

Stephanie Brandt and Jane Leiter watch as the fireworks illuminate the night sky and reflect on the waters of the Great Sea.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Government Center
Joppa, Joppa State
Wednesday, December 31, 2031
11:55 pm

Among the large crowd waiting for the start of 2032 are a couple of students at the University of Joppa Law Center. One of them is also awaiting the right moment to make a special proposal.


Government Center in Joppa.

The young woman is Mary Sue Heston, a third-year law student and a graduate of the University of Andromeda. A native of Andromeda City, both of her parents are members of the Andromeda Civil Service. Her father works for the Treasury Ministry while her mother works in Education.

The young man is Ellis Curry. He is also a third-year law student. Born in Joppa’s Spanish Harlem, Curry served in ANSEP, the Andromeda Navy’s Secondary Education Program. Curry served as a Sergeant in the July Conflict. He graduated from the Andromeda Naval Academy. Both of his parents died when he was young.

As much of the crowd looks forward to ringing in the new year, Curry puts his hand in his right coat pocket. He looks forward to taking out the small case in his pocket. He looks forward to getting on his knee and proposing to Heston as soon as the new year rings in.

Curry and Heston have been together since her senior year in college. He was a lieutenant in the Andromeda Navy when they met. Both look forward to graduating from the Law Center in May. Curry will spend his final semester working for the Joppa Prosecutor’s Office.


Mary Sue Heston and Ellis Curry are students at the University of Joppa Law Center.

Joppa State Governor Joe Napoli stands on a stage along with his sons, state business leaders and a few celebrities.

With just under a minute left, Napoli pushes a button which starts the New Year’s ball to descend. The ball starts to descend. The countdown begins.

“10...9...8...7...”

The ball stops halfway down.

“6...5...4...”

The ball quickly descends downward.

“3...2...1...zero.”

The ball reaches the bottom of the pole. The crowd cheers. Fireworks explode above the City Square. In the middle of the pandemonium, Curry grabs Heston’s hand. She turns to him as he kneels down onto one knee.

“Mary Sue Heston...”

As Curry fumbles to find the ring in his coat pocket, the emcee announces the first act to perform in Joppa in 2032.

“Ladies and Gentleman, to help us ring in the New Year, the Riders.”

Curry gets up. He looks around at the crowd. He knows that whenever the Riders perform, there is trouble.


The Riders are a rap group based out of Joppa.

“You got to be kidding me.”

Heston is confused.

“Mary Sue, we need to get out of here.”

“Yes, Ellis. I accept.”

“No, Mary Sue. No. You don’t understand. We need to get out of here, right now!”

As Curry and Heston start filing away from the stage, The Riders take the stage. The Riders are a gangster rap group known for their controversial lyrics. The leader of The Riders, Canaan Jackson turns to the Governor and his entourage as they try to maneuver through the crowd toward the State Council Chamber. He has a smile on his face as he points to the Governor.

“The Riders is runnin’ shit in ‘32, so Uncle Joe,...

Jackson’s smile widens. A person in the crowd yells ‘no.”

“Oh yeah. We goin’ there. Uncle Joe, this one’s for you.”

“Uncle Joe Can Eat A D...”

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Todd House
Assembly Plaza, Andromeda City
Wednesday, December 31, 2031
10:55 pm


Todd House.

A small number of distinguished, well-dressed couples sit in an auditorium in Todd House. They await a brief New Year’s Eve speech from the President of the Allied States. The President records a brief speech that will be played just after the ball drops at the Old City Hall.


Joe Clark, the 12th President of the Allied States.

Joseph Pollard Clark, the President of the Allied States, walks up to the podium dressed in a tuxedo. He will give a brief speech wishing a Happy New Year to the citizens of the Andromeda Islands.

“On behalf of the Andromeda Government and the Assembly of the Allied States, Linda and I wish everyone a Happy and Prosperous New Year.”

The camera shuts off. The camera crew quickly prepares to download a copy of the message to Andromeda News Network Headquarters. At the same time, Leonard Lawrence, the Vice President of the Allied States stands up and begins the traditional chant that follows the President’s speech.

“Hip Hip...”

“Hooray!”

“Hip Hip...”

“Hooray!”

“Hip Hip...”

“Hooray!”

After the cheer, President Clark walks over to Vice President Lawrence. Lawrence and a number of cabinet members will join the festivities in front of the Old Town Hall. A couple of limousines will be escorted by Assembly police. Before Lawrence leaves, President Clark talks to Lawrence for a few minutes.

“You’ll meet with us tomorrow afternoon, Lenny?”

“Tomorrow afternoon, Mr. President.”

“Good luck.”

Vice President Lawrence will join Andromeda City Mayor Frank Lucas, Reverend Mike Holstein and Andromeda Conservative Media CEO Conrad Green tonight as Andromeda City hosts its version of the ball drop, after which the President’s brief speech will be transmitted to the New Year’s crowd and television watchers in Andromeda City.


Leonard Lawrence, Vice President of the Allied States

As Lawrence is escorted to the limousine by Assembly police, Archibald Thomas and his wife, Maggie, walk over to the President and his wife, Linda. John Archibald Thomas III, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, is second in line to the Andromeda Presidency. Archibald Thomas is also a distant cousin to the First Lady. Their daughter and her boyfriend follow.

“Archibald. You’re not going to Old Town?”

“We’re not, Mr. President. I’m actually here to announce my resignation.”

“Your resignation? What happened?”

“It won’t be until March. Circumstances beyond my control will make it difficult for me to continue serving as Minister of Foreign Affairs.”


Archibald Thomas, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The President looks confused.

“Has there been any disagreement as far as foreign policy? Anything?”

“It’s not that. Our daughter is getting married.”

Once the President hears that Peggy Thomas is getting married, he has some idea why Archibald Thomas is resigning.

“She’s marrying...”

President Clark looks at Peggy Thomas talking with her fiancee’. The boyfriend has kept an exceptionally low profile until now. Archibald Thomas asks them both to meet the President.

“This is the President of the Allied States.”

“You must be Peggy.”

“I am. It’s an honor to meet you, Mr. President.”

“Allow me to introduce myself. Asa al-Salih.”

The President is a bit surprised.

“Perhaps I should be honored to meet you, your...”

“Asa’s fine, Mr. President.”

“But, your father is...”

“He is indeed, Mr. President.”

“And I will be his father-in-law.”

The President understands.

“You’re absolutely right, Archibald. It would look bad if you were both our Minister of Foreign Affairs and this man’s father-in-law. Do you have someone in mind to replace you?”

“I do, Mr. President. She also knows of my plans.

The President, his wife, Archibald Thomas and his family walk out to the back porch of Todd House to await the fireworks that will ring in the New Year.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Old City Hall
Tiber District, Andromeda City
Wednesday, December 31, 2031
11:50 pm

The Vice President’s limousine arrives at the back of the Old Town City Hall with less than 15 minutes before the New Year. Despite the police escort, they had difficulty maneuvering through traffic once they got close to the hall. Once the car stopped, a member of the Andromeda City Police Department opened the door to quickly escort the Vice President through the Old Town hall to a stage built at the front of the Hall.


Old City Hall in Andromeda City

As soon as the Vice President enters the hall, he is joined by Andromeda State Governor Frank Lucas. Lucas also happens to be the Head of the Andromeda City Police Department.

“Mr. Vice President. Another five minutes and we would have started without you.”

“They wouldn’t start the new year without me. They would have waited.”

Lucas doesn’t appear amused by the Vice President’s humor.

“Reverend Holstein and Rad Green are waiting outside.”

The Vice President and the Governor are joined by Maxine Shaw, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. Shaw also happens to represent the Old Town District in the Assembly. Lucas continues to walk ahead while the Vice President stops to talk to Shaw.


Frank Lucas, Governor of Andromeda State

“Mr. Vice President, pleasure to see you again.”

“It is, Miss Shaw. How’s things look?”


Maxine Shaw, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, represents Old Town in theAssembly.

“The good Reverend Holstein and Rad Green are here. Miss Andromeda is here. Everything’s going well.”

“Good. Traffic was terrible though. I almost got out and walked.”

“You know, traffic may be slow on the way back.”

Shaw gently touches the Vice President’s hand.

“Is Melvina at Todd House?”

“Melvina, my wife, is hosting a party at home, a quiet celebration with the kids.”

The Vice President tries to change the subject.

“What about the Foreign Affairs Committee?”

“You’ll be seeing a lot more of me after March.”

Governor Lucas stares at the Vice President and Shaw.

“Five minutes.”

The Vice President and Shaw go out to the stage. As they walk out, they notice the heightened police presence in the crowd. Governor Lucas doesn’t want to take any chances as far as the crowd in Old Town.

The Vice President shakes hands with Reverend Holstein, the Head Pastor at Assembly Hall Church, one of the largest churches in the Allied States. He also shakes hands with Conrad Green III, the CEO of Andromeda Conservative Media, one of the three major news outlets in the Allied States. He also meets the current reigning Miss Andromeda.

The emcee announces the presence of the dignitaries with less than four minutes left until the New Year.

“Ladies and Gentleman, to help us bring in the New Year, we have the representative for Old Town, Miss Maxine Shaw.”

Shaw steps forward and gives a modest wave.

“We also have the Chief Executive Officer for Andromeda Conservative Media, Mr. Conrad Green.

Rad Green is a relatively young CEO. He gives an enthusiastic thumbs up to the crowd.


Conrad Green III is the CEO of Andromeda Conservative Media.

“We also have Reverend Mike Holstein from Assembly Hall Church.”

Reverend Holstein smiles and waves. Reverend Holstein often has a smile on his face.


Rev. Mike Holstein heads the largest Christian congregation in Andromeda City.

“In addition, we have the Vice President of the Allied States, Mr. Leonard Lawrence.”

Lawrence also represents a district in Andromeda City. His district borders the Assembly Plaza.

“And, to officially ring in the New Year, we have Michella Brea, Miss Andromeda.”

The crowd cheers for Miss Andromeda, a native of Old Town.

Behind them there is a large, digital clock counting down to the New Year. There is also a large button that Miss Andromeda will push. As the clock approaches 10 seconds, Miss Andromeda places both of her hands on the button. The emcee pulls out a red handkerchief. He waves it at the 10 second mark and Miss Andromeda pushed the button. The ball drops.

“10...9...8...7...”

The ball stops.

“6...5...4...”

The ball descends down the pole quickly.

“3...2...1...zero.”

Confetti showers down on the crowd. Fireworks go off above Andromeda City. The screen behind them flashes the words “Happy New Year.”

Assemblywoman Shaw stands next to the Vice President during the pandemonium. At that moment, the Vice President knows that he would be in for a long night enjoying the New Year.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Government Center
Joppa, Joppa State
Thursday, January 1, 2032
12:02 pm

Last night, the Allied States’ most famous rap group began a performance last night just after the opening of the New Year.


Government Center

The Riders barely began their first song when the audience began to riot. Rider fans began fighting with crowd members who wanted nothing to do with The Riders, their record label, the gang members connected to them or rap music in general. Joppa Police arrested the group less than two minutes after they began their song, a profanity-ridden diatribe against long-standing Joppa Governor Joe Napoli.

Less than an hour ago, attorney David Dewey paid the bail for all six members of the Riders. A podium has been set up on the steps of Government Center for a Press Conference. A few members of the Andromeda Press wait for Dewey and the Riders to walk over from Police Headquarters.

“Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, I am David Dewey, the managing partner of Dewey, Cheatam and Howe, LLC. Less than an hour ago, I posted bail for my clients, Canaan Jackson and his rap group, the Riders. Last night, just after they started their set, members of the Joppa Police Department arrested them while they were exercising their freedom of expression.”


David Dewey is the managing partner of Dewey, Cheatam and Howe, LLC.

“The Treaty of Portsmouth, our nation’s founding document, expressly protects freedom of expression, even if the views expressed happen to be unpopular. Canaan Jackson and his cohorts were detained by Police because their views are controversial in Joppa State. Their views angered Governor Joe Napoli, who brought his own gang in to shut them up.”

The gang Dewey refers to is the Joppa State Police Department.

“Now, Canaan Jackson wishes to read a prepared statement.”


Canaan Jackson, CEO of Criminal Records, is also the lead rapper for The Riders.

Canaan Jackson, the leader of The Riders, is also the head of the leading rap label in the Allied States, Criminal Records.

“Last night, we were given the opportunity to perform our #1 rated song in front of the New Year’s Eve crowd. We had just began our song when Joe Napoli’s Joppa City Police Department came and arrested us.”

“The arrest, along with our brief incarceration confirmed what we already know about Governor Napoli and the Joppa Police Department. Governor Napoli is afraid of hearing views that go against his rule here over Joppa. He has no interest in upholding The Treaty of Portsmouth when it goes against his rule.”

“Uncle Joe Can Eat a Dick,” one of the other members of the Riders yells.

“Mr. Jackson and the Riders will entertain a few questions.”

Dewey points to a familiar face.

“Rose Jackson. Andromeda News Network. Didn’t your arrest have something to do with rioting among the New Year’s Eve crowd?”

Canaan Jackson steps to the podium.

“I was unaware that there was any rioting. It was just like any crowd we have at any of our concerts.”

“But the police report says that the arrest was for inciting a riot. On New Year’s Eve.”

“The police be making stuff up. Joe Napoli wants to shut us down.”

“Joe Napoli Can Eat a Dick,” another member of the Riders yells.

“Next question.”

“Carson Tucker, Andromeda Conservative Media. Are you denying that there were people fighting in the crowd on New Year’s Eve.”

“If there was anyone fightin’, it ain’t got nuthin’ to do with us.”

“No more questions.”

Canaan Jackson and his group throw up gang signs as they leave the Press Conference.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

University of Joppa Basketball Stadium
Joppa, Joppa State
Saturday, January 3, 2032
10:45 pm

The Allied States of the Andromeda Archipelago holds three World Championships in basketball. Basketball is their national sport. Their basketball league, the Allied States Basketball Association (ASBA), started their season nearly two months ago.

Sitting in the front row, intently watching the game, is Annie Navarro, the Head Coach of the Palermo Pink Cobras. The Pink Cobras are the current Champions of the ASBA Women’s League. She watches as the Palermo Purple Cobras are losing to the Joppa Jaguars 85-65 early in the fourth quarter. Sitting next to Coach Navarro is Jayme Summers, a former Women’s College Basketball Player and a current member of the Assembly of the Allied States.

Navarro watches as her husband, Palermo Head Coach Todd DeSilva struggles to deal with Summer’s husband, veteran Joppa Center Dan Stuckey. Stuckey has already registered a double-double, scoring 29 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.

Sitting behind them are Ellis Curry, Mary Sue Heston, Ken Knox, Vicky Page, Dave Stuckey and Helena Press. Ken Knox’s father is World Assembly Secretary-General and former Andromedan President Mike Knox. Victoria Page’s aunt is Valerie Page, a member of the World Assembly Security Council. Knox and Page were married last year. Both Knox and Page are classmates of Curry and Heston at the University of Joppa Law Center. Dave Stuckey, also a student at the Law Center, is Dan’s younger brother. Helena Press played in the Women’s game before, helping Palermo win a narrow victory.

Knox knows that Joppa Assemblywoman Maria Faris may be retiring from the Assembly at the end of her term. Faris has been in the Assembly since 2008, but supposedly wants to retire in order to spend time with her growing family. Since joining the Assembly, she has had three children and is pregnant with a fourth.

Knox asked Summers about Faris earlier, but Summers was uncertain about her colleague.

“Foul #6, Ivan Kasparov. His fifth.”

Kasparov fouls out.

“Going to the line, Daaaan Stuckey.”

Knox talks with Curry about his political future as Stuckey goes to the line.

“Ellis, you know what this means, if it’s true.”

Curry is intently watching Stuckey at the foul line. Dave Stuckey also watches intently. Helena Press rubs Dave Stuckey’s back.

“No, Ken. What does it mean?”

Stuckey makes his first foul shot. He is a notoriously poor foul shooter, so many fans are relieved.

“It means the seat opens up. It means we have an opening, Ellis.”

Curry is only half-listening. He and Heston are watching Stuckey’s second free throw attempt.

“Dunkin’ Dan’s doing good, Ken. 30 points.”

Stuckey makes his second foul shot.


Dan Stuckey is a veteran player in the Allied States Basketball Association.

“31 points. You know, politics is a lot like basketball, Ken.”

Play resumes.

“My father is Mike Knox. I know.”

Mike Knox played in the ASBA before he became a serious politician. From 2006 to 2010, he was both a player and a member of the Assembly.

“Think of it. An Assemblyman at 25, Ellis. You’d be the youngest member of the Joppa delegation since Michelle Lee.”

Michelle Lee was first elected to the Assembly as a teenager. She is now a member of the Supreme Judiciary Council.

Stuckey gets his eleventh rebound. Joppa sets up their offense.

“Ellis is right.” Page rubs her husband’s back. “This can wait until the morning.”

Stuckey grabs an offensive rebound. A Palermo player challenges Stuckey for the rebound. The Palermo player bumps into Stuckey mid-air, causing his head to collide with the floor.

Jayme Summers runs down from the stands. She kneels down next to Stuckey as paramedics come out to check on Stuckey. He is unconscious.

After a few minutes, about six paramedics come out with a large stretcher to take Stuckey off of the court.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

University of Joppa Medical Center
Joppa, Joppa State
Saturday, January 3, 2032
11:45 pm

Dan Stuckey lay unconscious in a hospital bed. His legs hang off of the front of the hospital bed. According to the machines that monitor his vital signs, everything appears normal.


Jayme Summers, a folk singer and former basketball player, is also a member of the Assembly of the Allied States. She recently married Dan Stuckey and has two children.

Sitting next to Stuckey is Jayme Summers. Summers has been, for all intents and purposes, Stuckey’s wife. After years together, they finally married last December.

Summers has sat at Stuckey’s bedside since he was brought to University Hospital a few hours ago. She sits, holding Stuckey’s hand as he lay in the bed. Her guitar sits next to her chair.

Jayme Summers met Dan Stuckey in a similar situation a few years ago. He was sitting on the bench in plain clothes. He had injured his foot the week before. Summers, a folk singer, sang the Andromeda National Anthem during a game between Joppa and the South Joppa Black Steelers.

Summers also happens to be one of the Assembly members who represents South Joppa. She doesn’t appear to be the type of woman who would be in the Assembly. She has several tattoos and doesn’t dress like a professional outside of the Assembly. She has co-sponsored several bills since joining the Assembly three years ago.

When they first met, at one of his games, Summers decided to sit next to Dan Stuckey during the first quarter. He wasn’t especially friendly at first. Summers told him about her years at the University of South Joppa. She played for the Women’s Basketball Team at the University of South Joppa. She told Stuckey that he would be less prone to injury if he lost some weight. Stuckey agreed that he needed to be more disciplined if he wanted to ever play at the professional level again. She offered to help him in his rehabilitation.

Stuckey and Summers spent the next few months together. Summers was very strict with Stuckey about exercising and maintaining a diet. Stuckey quickly regained his old form after losing 40 pounds in three months. Summers and Stuckey have been together ever since.

Now, Summers sits beside Stuckey and holds his hand. She wishes and hopes that he will quickly emerge from unconsciousness.

Dan Stuckey’s brother, Dave, has been waiting outside with his girlfriend. Earlier, Dave Stuckey’s friends were helping to console him. Dave Stuckey, who has been waiting in the hallway, taps on the door before he opens it.

“Jayme, the nurses have asked us to leave for the night. They said it would be okay if you stayed the night.”

“I think I’ll stay here.”

Dave Stuckey stares at his brother. He turns to Summers.

“We’ll be back in the morning. Call me if anything happens.”

Stuckey closes the door, leaving with his girlfriend. Summers sits with Stuckey. She takes a remote control, turns on the television and turns to the Andromeda News Network program, The Sports Hour. She winces as she sees footage of when Dan Stuckey’s head hits the floor.

Summers turns off the television. She stands up and strokes Stuckey’s head. She looks out of the window and decides to try something she has never done before: She closes her eyes, puts her hands together and prays.

“Lord, I’m not familiar with how to pray. There are so many reasons why I haven’t prayed to you until now. I was never taught how to pray. I don’t know what to do, Lord. But now, I turn to you.”

“Since I met first Dan, my life has changed. We have supported each other. We laugh together. We love each other. We have children together. I would never admit it to him, but he has made my life better.”

“Until a few hours ago, I never thought that I would find myself asking you for anything. But now,... I ask... Lord, that you help Dan wake up.”

Tears fall down Jayme Summers’ face.

“Lord, I beg you, please. I don’t know what I would do without Dan. Lord, I need your help.”

Summers kisses Stuckey on the forehead.

“Amen.”

Summers looks toward Dan and lays her head on his chest. She listens to the constant, steady sounds from the machines monitoring her husband’s vital signs. As she listens to the beeping, She falls into a sleep in her chair.

----------

The next morning, Summers wakes up to find that Stuckey isn’t in his bed. She appears alarmed that Stuckey is missing until she hears a toilet flush. She hears water running in the bathroom sink. The water stops. Stuckey emerges from the bathroom, ducking under the bathroom door.

“I have to be careful. I have this bad habit of bumping my head.”

Summers and Stuckey smile. Summers knows that Dan will continue making her laugh for a long time.

[The Free Mutant Republic of Genosha]

Are you trying to imply there are no mutants in 2032?

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

OOC:

#1 - Each week, starting on Monday, will represent a month in the story, meaning that this thread has 10 more weeks before it’s over.

#2 - To the Free Mutant Republic: I can’t speak for mutants in other countries, but they don’t have a huge presence in this particular story.

Lion of Judah Worship Center
Beta City, Beta State
Tuesday, February 3, 2032
7:30 pm

Chad Rourke first came to the Allied States two years ago in order to help the Conservatives win the election. The Conservatives made gains, but they fell short. Rourke has been working for the past 15 months laying the groundwork for a Conservative victory in 2032. Rourke knows that if a few more of the 200 Assembly districts in the Allied States are drawn in favor of the Conservative Party, they can win a majority in the Assembly.


Chad Rourke is leading Conservative redistricting efforts.

Today, Rourke sits in on a Beta City Council meeting. Beta City is one of the two most Conservative areas in the Allied States. Almost all of the Beta City Council members are Conservatives. Until a few years ago, all of the members of the Assembly from Beta City are Conservatives.

In the Allied States, every state has a State Council, made up of representatives elected for two-year terms from districts. Once elected, a majority of the State Council elects a Governor, usually from their own ranks. Since the Treaty of Portsmouth was signed, every Governor of Beta City has been a Conservative.

The Beta State Council often meets in Houses of Worship, despite the supposed separation between Church and State. Tonight, the Council is meeting at the Lion of Judah Worship Center, the largest church in the Allied States. The meeting is public, but there are few spectators.

Most of the people in attendance are Conservatives. Many of them are Conservative Assembly members interested in the redistricting plan for Beta City’s districts. Rev. Carter Duckett, a candidate for the Assembly, is also interested. Governor Trent Reeves and the Council have just finished routine business. State Council staff members pass out district maps to the Council and the Conservative operatives in attendance. Chad Rourke watches, knowing what will happen.


Trent Reeves, Governor of Beta State.

“As everyone here knows, the State Councils need to draw new districts for both our own seats and the Assembly delegation. The council has agreed to a redistricting map well before the deadline on September 1st.”

The maps show that most of the Assembly districts are nearly identical to the districts that exist now. Thanks to Chad Rourke, there are a few districts close to the city center that have been redrawn.

“The Beta City delegation to the Assembly has been uniformly Conservative for most of the past two decade,” Governor Trent Reeves says. “That is, until four years ago, when Stephanie Brandt defeated First Lady Georgia Duckett.”

Georgia Brown Duckett is the First Lady of Lion of Judah. She and her husband, Rev. Carter Duckett, sit in the first row, watching the State Council deliberate.

“We’ll definitely win the seat this time,” Rev. Duckett adds. Duckett himself plans to run against Brandt this fall.


Rev. Carter Duckett plans to run for the Assembly this fall.

Stephanie Brandt’s district, which currently makes up the most densely populated area in Beta City, will be drawn out of existence. The district, which is currently slightly liberal, will be divided up between two neighboring districts and a new district that will encompass both Brandt’s apartment building and Lion of Judah.

Governor Trent Reeves opens the floor to questions.

“Does anyone have any questions, comments or concerns before we vote on the redistricting plan?”

The spectators are quiet.

“Then we will vote on the Beta State redistricting plan. All in favor, say aye.”

The State Councilmen all vote aye.

“All opposed, say no.”

The two Social Democratic members of the State Council are not in attendance this evening.

“The aye’s have it. The new redistricting plan will be submitted to the Assembly this week.”

The spectators all applaud. Among the spectators are many current members of the Assembly of the Allied States, including Carter Duckett’s predecessor as Pastor of Lion of Judah, Alonzo Brown. Brown was the Conservative Party’s candidate for President more than a year ago. Brown, who also happens to be Duckett’s brother-in-law, appears happy.

Chad Rourke sits in the back, waiting for the meeting to end. He’ll shake hands with grateful Conservative Assembly members. He’ll also meet with Rev. Duckett and his family before he returns to Andromeda City in the morning.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Assembly Hall Church
Andromeda City, Andromeda
Sunday, February 8, 2032
9:30 am

In Andromeda City, there are two large complexes that are often confused with each other. One is the Assembly of the Allied States, which is in the Assembly Plaza on the southern shore. The other place is Assembly Hall, which is a large non-denominational mega-church on the north side of town.


Assembly Hall Church on a Sunday morning.

Assembly Hall was once the home of both the Andromeda Senators and the Andromeda Sultans, teams in the Allied States Basketball Association. Now, Assembly Hall is the second largest church in the Allied States. Assembly Hall holds their main service and their weekly television broadcast on Sundays at 9:30, after the ushers take tithes and offerings.

The Head Pastor of Assembly Hall Church is Pastor Mike Holstein. Michael Joel Holstein has always been well-liked in business and political circles, despite his unwillingness to endorse candidates. Holstein has projected an image of political neutrality in recent years. People across the Allied States often refer to the congenial Rev. Holstein as The Smiling Pastor.

Hidden among Assembly Hall’s many parishioners is Chad Rourke. Rourke is coordinating with Conservative operatives across the Allied States with their redistricting efforts. The Conservatives lost a close election in 2030, losing by just over a dozen seats. Rourke knows that a few redrawn districts could mean the difference between victory and defeat in November.

Rourke knows that if Rev. Mike Holstein runs for the Assembly, he will win. Rourke wants Holstein to run as a Conservative. He sits in the crowd and listens to Holstein, who just read a bible verse that appeared on large screens for everyone to see. Holstein begins his sermon.

“Don’t talk yourself down. You were created in the image of the Most High God. He wants you to live an abundant life.”

Rourke looks around. Many of Holstein’s parishioners appear mesmerized by Holstein’s words. Rourke listens to Holstein, but doesn’t understand why so many seem so inspired by his words. Holstein spends much of his time rephrasing the same point using different words.

“You are God’s masterpiece. Don’t sell yourself short and short-circuit your potential.”

After a few minutes, Chad Rourke leaves his seat and walks out. He decides to take a few moments outside to reflect on his life before the service concludes. He walks over to the hallway outside of the Executive Offices of Assembly Hall.

Rourke has never been especially religious. He wasn’t raised in a religious household. He began his professional career working for Conservative candidates for the House of Commons in the Emerald Republic. He rose through the ranks of Conservative campaign circles, eventually working as a campaign operative for Conrad Green during his campaigns for President of the Emerald Republic.

Rourke then began working for Conrad Green’s Media Empire, the Emerald News Network. In addition to the Emerald News Network, Green’s Empire expanded to include Conservative Media outlets outside of the Emerald Republic, including Andromeda Conservative Media.

Soon after Rourke arrived in the Allied States, he joined the Andromeda LDS Church last year in order to ingratiate himself with certain leaders within the Conservative Party. The current opposition leader in the Assembly, Joe Rutherford, is a high counselor in the Andromeda LDS Church.

As Rourke watches parishioners leave Assembly Hall, he knows that the Conservative Party in the Andromeda Islands is similar to Conservative movements throughout the world. They often work hand-in-hand with religious leaders in their respective countries in order to take control of government.

Rourke now sees that Mike Holstein peddles a watered-down, vapid, self-centered view of Christianity. Despite this, Holstein is one of the most popular men in Andromeda City. He would decimate whoever faces him in an Assembly election. Rourke needs Holstein to get on board, so that the Conservatives can make gains in Andromeda City.


Pastor Mike Holstein

As parishioners leave Assembly Hall, Holstein, his wife, and his children emerge from a back entrance. The family is flanked by bodyguards as they walk the short path between the back entrances of Assembly Hall and the office building. Rourke yells out to Holstein.

“Reverend Holstein. I’m Chad Rourke. I have an appointment.”

One of Holstein’s bodyguards, a clean cut man in a black suit, starts to push Rourke away. Holstein speaks.

“Stop.”

The bodyguard backs away from Rourke. Holstein talks to one of his other bodyguards.

“Who do we have at 12 o’clock?”

“A Chad Rourke, Rev. Holstein. From the Conservative Party.”

Holstein turns to Rourke.

“You’re Mr. Rourke, the man from the Conservative Party?”

“Yes, Reverend Holstein.”

Holstein extends his hand to Rourke. The bodyguard backs away as Rourke joins the Holsteins in their procession to the office building.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Friendship Baptist Church
Andromeda City, Andromeda
Sunday, February 8, 2032
4:30 am

Chad Rourke has spent much of the past week in and out of churches in support of the Conservative cause. He spent much of the morning sitting in Assembly Hall Church, listening to Rev. Mike Holstein smile through a generic sounding sermon.

After talking with Rev. Holstein, Rourke needed a break from being a Conservative activist. He also needed a huge relief from the Mormon churches he has attended since his conversion. He sometimes feels that their worship services are bland and repetitive. Rourke has never been a fan of being in church all Sunday. There are certain Sundays when Rourke really wishes he could simply watch a basketball game.

That afternoon, Rourke decided that he would do something that differed from his routine as a political operative. He decided to visit Friendship Baptist Church in Andromeda City’s Chapel Hill district.

Friendship Baptist is hosting an event this afternoon. There are a number of Gospel groups and artists in attendance. As the choir from Valois Progressive Baptist Church sings, the Head Pastor sits in the front row, clapping to the music. His wife sits on one side and his son sits on his other side. Their infant daughter sits on his wife’s lap.


The Valois Progressive Baptist Church Choir.

The Head Pastor of Friendship Baptist is J. Thomas Bryce. Tom Bryce also happens to be the Assemblyman who represents Andromeda City’s Chapel Hill district. He has represented Chapel Hill since the district was created a decade ago.

What Rev. Bryce doesn’t know is that Chad Rourke is behind the effort to change the districts in Andromeda City. The proposed districts would place Assemblyman Bryce in a slightly different district. In the past, each district only had one large church within its boundaries. During this redistricting process, the Andromeda State Council was interested in both protecting incumbents at the State Council level and maintaining equal districts. This led to Friendship, the 3rd largest church in Andromeda City being in the same district as Assembly Hall, the largest church in Andromeda City.


Rev. J. Thomas Bryce is the head Pastor at Friendship Baptist Church.

Rev. Bryce stands up after the Valois Progressive Choir sings. The audience claps. Rev. Bryce takes the microphone as the Choir leaves the stage.

“Praise God. Give Valois Progressive a round of applause.”

The crowd applauds. Rev. Bryce raises his hands.

“And now,...”

Rev. Bryce shakes his head and smiles.

“This is the part where we ask you for money.”

People laugh.

“This program we’re doing is for our mission in Koni and our mission in Abu Salih. The people there need guidance. Some of the people there have been dominated by a repressive brand of Islam. Others have lived under decadent, corrupt governments for years and years, whether they be fundamentalist Islam or the Old Kingdom. Others simply need basic services that we can help provide.”

“We ask that you give, so that the Abu Continent can bask in the light of the world. The Abu Continent has been shrouded in darkness for long enough.”

As Bryce talks about the Abu Continent, Church ushers walk down the outer aisles of the sanctuary. A few men stand in front of the pulpit with collection plates. After Bryce gives a brief prayer, congregants walk up to the men, row by row, giving money.

Chad Rourke walks up to Rev. Bryce.

“I’m enjoying the show, Assemblyman Bryce.”

Bryce raises an eyebrow. Despite his position as an Assemblyman, most everyone he knows refers to him as “Reverend.”

“Chad Rourke! As I live and breathe. I never thought I’d ever see you here.”

“The spirit moved me, Reverend Bryce.”

“So, you’re doing recon for Harry O’Shaughnessey?”

Harry O’Shaughnessey, a popular Conservative radio talk show host, was Bryce’s opponent in the last election.

“No, sir. Mr. O’Shaughnessey is Roman Catholic.”

“And you, what are you, Mr. Rourke?””

Rourke pauses. He doesn’t want Bryce to know that he’s a Mormon.

Mr. Rourke, before you sit down, know that this here is more than just a show.”

“Understood, Reverend Bryce.”

As Chad Rourke walks back to his seat, he knows that the Chapel Hill district will be difficult for the Conservatives to win.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Andromeda Conservative Media
St. Paul, St. Paul State
Saturday, February 14, 2032
12:30 pm

Assemblyman Fred Latham sits in a food court on the ground floor of a mall across the street from Andromeda Conservative Media’s St. Paul Studios. Latham is also the Head Pastor at McMillen Park Baptist Church. He sits, talking with one of his associate pastors.

“We’re going to do something tomorrow, after church. We met at McMillen Park when I was young.”

“So, Pastor, what’s this meeting about?”


Pastor Fred Latham is the only member of the St. Paul Assembly delegation who isn’t a Mormon.

“I think it has something to do with redistricting. McMillen Park has been the closest district in the past few years, and the Mormons want the districts to all be solidly Conservative.”

“So, they’re going to talk to you today, Valentine’s Day?”

“It makes you wonder what their home life is like. You know the stories about Dave Newton and Joe Rutherford.”

The associate pastor nods his head.

“See. They want all of us non-Mormons to take a back seat. They’re only about 40% of the people in St. Paul, yet almost everyone in local government is a Mormon.”

The associate pastor sees Joe Rutherford and David Newton walk their way. Newton signals Latham. Newton, the Head of the Andromedan LDS Church, says hello.

“Rev. Latham, nice to see you. You’ll be up at 1 o’clock?”

“Certainly, Assemblyman Newton.”

Joe Rutherford, the Head of the Conservative Party in the Allied States, is also Newton’s chief counsel in the LDS Church.

“Rev. Jamison. It’s nice to finally meet you. I head you and your wife are expecting soon.”

“That’s true, Assemblyman Rutherford.”

“Children are always a blessing. See you upstairs, Rev. Latham.”

----------

Rev. Latham sits in a room with Dave Newton and Joe Rutherford. Rutherford sits behind a desk. Newton sits with Latham as they look at a proposed map of the St. Paul districts for the next year. Dave Newton does most of the talking.


Joe Rutherford and Dave Newton are the two most powerful men in St. Paul State.

“As you know, we’re looking to solidify the Conservative stamp in St. Paul. All of the Assembly districts in St. Paul have been solidly Conservative, except yours.”

Rev. Latham knows what’s coming. They’re going to ask him to step down. Joe Rutherford comes from behind his desk and sits next to Latham.

“Reverend Latham, what’s your position on the World Assembly?”

Latham sees a chance to keep his job.

“I’ve been against being in the World Assembly since we joined. I thought Randy Godwin should have got us out. I don’t think a bunch of bureaucrats in the World Assembly should tell us how to run our affairs.”

“You know the campaign’s coming, and we don’t want to struggle in McMillan Park,” Rutherford says. “We want to focus on Joe Clark and the Social Democrats.”

“If we win, we’re going to get out of the World Assembly,” Newton says. “And we want to send a message to the World that we want to get out.”

“And we know that you’re one of the biggest opponents of the World Assembly in government.”

“Who better to manage our exit from the World Assembly next year?”

Latham sits in silence.

“What about my district?”

“We’ve already talked with someone who plans to run in McMillen Park.”

“Rev. Latham, we’re offering you the Ambassadorship to the World Assembly Security Council.”

“We’re going to win this year. We want you on our team. If you play ball with us, we’ll take care of you.”

Latham sits with his hands pressed together, as if he’s going to pray.

“Give me a few days. You’ll have my answer by this time next week.”

Latham shakes hands with Newton and Rutherford before he leaves the room. Rutherford turns to Newton.

“So, who do we have that will replace Latham?”

“Councilwoman Hubbard.”

Rutherford nods his head. State Councilwoman Elizabeth Hubbard represents one of the two State Council Districts encompassed in Latham’s Assembly district. Hubbard also happens to be a close confidant of David Newton.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Government Center
Joppa, Joppa State
Saturday, February 14, 2032
Noon

In one of the courtrooms, there are five people. A judge stands in front of his seat, officiating a small wedding. Standing in front of the judge are two young people facing each other. Ellis Curry and Mary Sue Heston are just about to get married in a brief civil ceremony.

Standing as witnesses are Ken Knox and Victoria Page. They have a brief conversation before the ceremony begins.

“This isn’t exactly Valladares,” Page says.

Vicki Page and Ken Knox got married in Valladares. Ellis Curry and Mary Sue Heston are about to get married at Government Center during one of a series of weddings today.


John Kennedy Knox is a student at the University of Joppa Law Center.

“You think it was Valladares that made us get married. Valladares. World Assembly Territory. It was us. We could have gotten married here. We could have gotten married in San Angeles, but we couldn’t wait.”

“It’s cheap.”

“They’re having another ceremony in June. This is for them. And it’s spontaneous. That’s sometimes a good thing, right?”

Vicky Page and Ken Knox hold hands. Their wedding in Valladares was just as spontaneous.


Victoria Page Knox compares her wedding to the one happening today.

“I suppose the mountains and the scenery were just a bonus.”

“It was.”

The judge begins the ceremony.

“We are gathered together here today...”

Ken Knox turns to his wife.

“So, we should tell him?”

“Wait for a bit. Tell him tomorrow.”

“Right.”

Ken Knox knows that Assemblywoman Maria Faris announced her retirement from Andromedan politics a few days ago. Because of his father, Knox has some influence in the Social Democratic Party in Joppa. Knox wants his friend to run for the seat. Ellis Curry would be a long shot to get the Social Democratic nod, but if he did, he would win the election. The Spanish Harlem district has been a reliable Social Democratic seat since Faris first won it in 2008.

“Let’s just watch the ceremony.”

“Mary Sue Heston, do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.”


Mary Sue Heston and Ellis Curry get married at Government Center in Joppa.

“James Ellis Curry, do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.”

“By the powers vested in me by the City and State of Joppa, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.”

Mr. And Mrs. Curry kiss. They hold hands and turn to the audience, Ken and Victoria Knox.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you Mr. and Mrs. James Ellis Curry.”

The Curry’s walk over to Ken Knox and Victoria Page. They hug just before they leave. They pass the next couple on the judge’s schedule on their way out.

“I can’t believe it, Ellis,” Mary Sue says. “Normally, everything you do is so planned and controlled.”

“What can I say? Sometimes, you have to take a leap of faith.”

Ken Knox raises his hand.

“Ellis, about leaps of faith,...”

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Ministry of Education Building
Assembly Plaza
Andromeda City, Andromeda State
Thursday, February 27, 2032
7:25 am

Much of Karen Vale’s identity has been invested in Andromedan Government. Her aunt, Sarah Vale, is a former President of the Allied States. Karen Vale was twelve years when her aunt became President of the Allied States. Karen Vale attended the Assembly High School. She also served as an Assembly Page, delivering messages between the Assembly Chamber and the buildings in the Assembly Plaza that house the various Ministries.

Karen Vale has spent most of her brief professional career in Andromeda Government. She joined the Andromeda Civil Service once she graduated from High School, working for the Ministry of the Navy as a member of the Assembly Security Force. She also attended the University of Andromeda, graduating in 2025. She also served for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before settling into the Ministry of Education.


Karen Vale is chief of staff to the Minister of Education.

Vale lives just across the river, in an Andromeda City neighborhood where many Andromeda Civil Servants live. Many Assembly members also maintain homes in her neighborhood. She arrived at work just before 7 am. As Chief of Staff for the Ministry of Education, Vale works directly with Charlotte Young-Kalla, the Minister of Education.

Assemblywoman Charlotte Young also arrives relatively early for work every morning when she’s in Andromeda City. Assemblywoman Young represents a district in Todd’s Cove once held by former President Mike Knox. Young, a former political science professor, has helped maintain the legacy that Sarah Vale began in 2014.


Charlotte Young-Kalla is the Minister of Education.

After she arranges everything in her office and in Charlie Young’s office, Karen Vale looks out of the window. She sees a number of civil servants walking across the bridge from her neighborhood to the Plaza. Today, the numbers of people walking in the rain this morning have swelled, because Assembly business will begin again in March.

Vale is just one of many civil servants who keep the Andromeda Government running. Most of the civil service functions outside of the Assembly Plaza, in State Capitals across the country or in foreign capitals throughout the World.

Vale also notices a tall, gray-haired man walking inconspicuously among the Civil Servants. The tall man is Leonard Lawrence, the Vice President of the Allied States. Lawrence routinely walks among the Civil Servants to work. In addition to being the #2 man in Andromeda Government, Lawrence is also the Assemblyman from that particular Assembly district. Lawrence will arrive at the Ministry of Education later today to discuss politics with Charlie Young.

Vale hears the Education Minister open the door to her office. She walks into the Minister’s office.

“Welcome back, Ms. Young.”

“What’s on the schedule for today, Karen?”

“The test score summary is on your desk, and the Vice President will be here at 10.”

Charlie Young rolls her eyes. “No doubt, he wants me to run again.”

“More than likely, Ms. Young.”

“He doesn’t want me to take care of Todd’s Cove.”

Charlotte Young previously served on the Todd’s Cove State Council. She plans to run for the State Council again this fall. In recent years, Todd’s Cove has been a battleground state. The current Governor, Louis Rich, is a Conservative.

“Have you thought about running this fall?”

Karen Vale has thought about running for the Assembly this year.

“We both know you have. There’s no reason why you couldn’t, especially if there’s an open district across the river. The demographics are good for there to be an open district.”

“I’ll think about it once the new districts are official.”

“Take a look at this.”

Charlie Young opens her briefcase. She pulls out a map of Andromeda City.

“If we don’t change the districts, the Vice President’s district will have enough people for nearly two districts. There’s no incumbent for this area this fall, and most of the permanent residence here are Civil Servants. You should run.”

“Why me?”

“Well, you have the name. Vale.”

Sarah Vale is one of the most beloved living Presidents in the Allied States.

“And, you have knowledge about issues. More than many of the Assemblymen that are up there now.”

Vale looks out of the window. There are a few people walking across the bridge to the Plaza. Assemblywoman Young walks next to her.

“Someone needs to represent the Civil Servants in the Assembly. One of their own. Someone like you.”

“Did the Vice President put you up to this.”

Assemblywoman Young, the Minister of Education, pauses.

“Your name came up. He likes the idea. But enough about that. What do the test numbers tell us?”

Vale smiles. She get a chance to do her job. She’ll leave pondering about an Assembly campaign for another day.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Andromeda News Network
Assembly of the Allied States
Andromeda City, Andromeda State
Friday, February 28, 2032
6:03 pm

Polly Cleese, the Andromeda News Network’s veteran Assembly correspondent reports from the front steps of the Assembly Chamber.

“The Assembly of the Allied States will begin their spring session on Monday. Legislators from across the Allied States have arrived back in Andromeda City to get ready for legislative business. For many Assemblymen here, the most important deliberations won’t be here in Andromeda City, but in State Capitols across the country.”

Cut to footage of redistricting meetings in Valois State. Cleese gives the voice over.

“In most of the 18 states, there are at least two Assembly districts. These districts are based on the number of people in each state as determined by the census taken every 10 years. Each district in each state has to have roughly the same number of people in a district.”

“Here in Valois State, there will be the same number of districts, but the boundaries will be determined by the Valois State Council, which is controlled by Conservatives.”

Cut to Nathan Ball Richman, Governor of Valois State.

“We’ve had pressure from the national Conservative Party to draw our districts to make sure all of our Assembly members are Conservative, but we also want to make sure that our representatives speak for the people who live here.”

“I personally haven’t involved myself in the redistricting effort. I know that my State Council seat won’t change much. The biggest changes almost always occur in the urban districts.”


An example of how gerrymandering works.

Cut to deliberations in St. Thomas, the capital of the Western Islands.

“In most of our states, there are two State Council members for every Assembly member. The Western Islands, despite being the largest state in terms of area, also has the smallest number of people, so there are 10 State council members along with their Assembly member. The Western Islands will also have another issue to consider: representation for a group known as the Fish People.”

Cut to Western Islands State Councilman Foster Gump.


Two fish people spotted at an undisclosed location.

“They send an envoy to talk to us every now and again, but they generally want to be left alone. They don’t want to be counted, so we don’t count them.”

“Gump, currently the Lieutenant Governor of the Western Islands, plans to run for the Assembly.”

“Once you go far enough west, you don’t have the normal two party system. Most of us in the far west are Independents. Even the Social Democrats here have a big independent streak.”

“And the Conservatives?”

“No. None out here that I know of.”

Cut back to the Assembly Plaza.

“The biggest issue that the Assembly will face in the coming weeks is Health Care. The Clark Administration will send a bill to the Assembly that provide Health Care for all Andromedans. I spoke earlier today with Vice President Leonard Lawrence.”

Cut to footage of Cleese’s interview with Leonard Lawrence.


Leonard Lawrence, Vice President of the Allied States.

“If this bill passes, it will be the biggest development in Andromedan Government since the days of Sarah Vale. Many countries of our size already have health care for all of their citizens. In this case, we need to catch up.”

“Have you tried working with Conservatives?”

“We have had an open, transparent process. We want to craft a good bill that will receive support from across the aisle. There have been rigorous yet thoughtful discussions with many Conservatives who are genuinely concerned about the implementation of Health Care. I think we will see this bill signed into law next month.”

Cut back to Cleese.

“Whatever happens with Health Care and redistricting, we will definitely see a lot of excitement during this spring session. Polly Cleese. Andromeda News Network.”

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Todd House
Assembly Plaza
Andromeda City, Andromeda State
Monday, March 8, 2032
9:00 am

After a week of routine business in the Assembly, the Government will unveil the Andromeda Health Care Act. President Joseph Pollard Clark of Portsmouth promised to pass a Health Care Law during his campaign in 2030. It has taken over a year for the government to craft a bill that would be acceptable to as many groups as possible.

President Clark enters the room. Some of the Cabinet Ministers stand.


President Joe Clark

“At ease, everyone. I’ll try to make this quick.”

The President sits at the head of the table.

“Leonard, how does the whip count look?”

Vice President Leonard Lawrence of Andromeda City has the responsibility of making sure that there are enough votes to pass the government’s agenda in the Assembly.

“We should have the votes. Ms. Wasserman has been working on the legislation for the past year. We shouldn’t have any problems passing it.”

Enid Wasserman, an Assemblywoman from Angeles City, is the principal author of the Andromeda Health Care Act. She was an OBGYN before being elected to the Assembly in 2030.

“This shouldn’t be a party line vote. We need a few votes from the other party. Otherwise, it’ll look like just ramming it through.”

“Between Ms. Wasserman and myself, we have more than enough votes.”

The President turns to the Treasury Minister.

“Archibald?”

John Archibald Thomas III of Nassau is the Minister of Foreign Affairs. His father and his cousin both served as Treasury Minister in previous governments.

“We’ve examined how Universal Health Care works in some of the countries we deal with. The World Assembly lists some of those countries as the happiest countries in the World. They also rank among the countries where the people have the longest life spans.”

“And what about the wedding?”


Archibald Thomas is the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Archibald Thomas’ daughter, Peggy, is getting married this Saturday to the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Abu Salih. Her mother is already in Al-Abwa.

“About that. You know that I have a successor in place. She’ll serve as acting Minister after the Health Care Bill passes.”

“We already have your resignation effective Friday at midnight. Are you nervous?”

“I am. My future son-in-law will be the heir to the Abu Throne. Peggy’s taking it in stride. I think her mother is more nervous than she is.”

“And Maxine, when’s she coming to touch base?”

“She’s coming tomorrow, Mr. President. Hopefully, nothing comes up.”

The President turns to the Treasury Minister.

“Ben?”

Benjamin Buford Blue of Palermo became Minister of the Treasury last fall after Todd Salley resigned. Salley chose to resign after announcing that he will run against President Clark for the Party nomination next August. Blue is also the CEO of the Bubba Gump Shrimp Corporation.

“We looked over the books. It looks like we will have the money, at least for the next couple of years, to fund Universal Health Care. We may need to spend much of the surpluses over the past few years to put it into place, but after that, we should be good.”


Benjamin Buford Blue of Palermo, Minister of the Treasury.

“And the Insurance Companies?”

“They don’t like the idea of government-funded competition, but they’ll adapt. And the winners will be the consumers.”

The President turns to the Minister of the Navy.”

“Commodore, what about the Navy? It has Universal Health Care. How does it do?”

Anna Maria Kaewkhonkaen of Angeles City, Minister of the Navy, was Joe Clark’s predecessor as President. Since she stepped down in November, she became only the second person in Andromeda Government to be awarded the title of Commodore. The other is Vice President Lawrence.

“As you know, Mr. President, the Navy encourages our personnel to follow a healthy diet and exercise. Many of the Conservatives in the Naval Committee were happy that there will be a similar campaign included when the Health Care Bill passes.”

“Is Henry Godwin on board?”


Anna Kaewkhonkaen, Minister of the Navy, served as President of the Allied States in 2030.

“He was one of the first.”

“I’m convinced he’s going to cross the aisle.”

Henry Godwin, the Conservative leader on the Naval Committee, is the eldest son of Randy Godwin, a former President of the Allied States.

President Clark turns to the Justice Minister.

“Daniel, what do we have to do legally to make this happen?”

Daniel Rosenberg of Joppa, Minister of Justice succeeded Joe Clark as Justice Minister.


Daniel Rosenberg of Joppa, Minister of Justice.

“There are certain exceptions in the bill. We call them the Jehovah’s Witness exemptions. We can’t compel people with genuine religious objections to join.”

“Will this mean that we turn people away that don’t pay into the system?”

“Many of them won’t be anywhere near a hospital. As far as the witnesses, they’ll have to object.”

The President turns to the Education Minister.

“Mrs. Kalla?”

Charlotte Young-Kalla of Todd’s Cove, Minister of Education, will head the department that disseminates the diet and exercise PSAs to the public.


Charlotte Young-Kalla, Minister of Education.

“As many of us know, physical education and health should be priorities beyond high school. Much of what we will do will encourage healthy diets and exercise.”

“And Orson Pratt? How’s he taking it?”

“There are enough Conservatives who aren’t as militant against it as Pratt. Ms. Wasserman’s has talked to most of them.

The President stands up.

“Everyone, as we know, Archibald will be leaving for Abu-Salih after we pass Health Care this week. He has been in the Assembly for the past decade. He’ll outrank us...”

Everyone laughs.

“His daughter Peggy, will become the Crown Princess of Abu Salih. We all knew that his family was political, but we had no idea.”

“Speech!”

Archibald Thomas stands up.

“Everyone, I wasn’t expecting this. I plan to give a closing speech on Wednesday, but I can say that I am grateful for my time in Andromedan Government. I will see all of you before I leave on Friday night.”

“Meeting adjourned.”

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

The North Building
Assembly Plaza
Andromeda City, Andromeda State
Monday, March 8, 2032
10:00 am

The Conservative Party has been the opposition party for more than 16 years. They haven’t held a majority in the Assembly since 2016. Their operations have been run out of the Assembly Plaza’s North Office Building.

Because the Conservatives are in the minority, the Shadow Cabinet doesn’t have much control of the agenda. Joseph Franklin Smith Rutherford of St. Paul, Leader of the Conservative Party presides over a group of five. Also sitting in on the meeting is Chad Rourke, a Conservative Party operative.


Joe Rutherford is the leader of the Conservative Party.

“Good morning, gentlemen. I’m sure everyone here knows that Alonzo Brown and Donnie Kurtz won’t be here today. Both of them will arrive in Beta City later today.”

Amos Alonzo Brown of Beta City was leader of the Conservative Party until he had a heart attack in the middle of last year. Donald Kurtz of Beta City, Shadow Minister of Justice, is one of Alonzo Brown’s chief lieutenants. Both Brown and Kurtz are Baptist ministers in Beta City.

“It figures,” David Newton says. David Wayne Newton of St. Paul is Rutherford’ chief lieutenant. Newton serves as Rutherford’s chief enforcer on the Assembly floor.


David Newton is Joe Rutherford’s right-hand man.

“The Health Care Act will probably become law this week. The question I have is, do we oppose the bill with all of our effort, or do we hang it around the Social Democrat’s neck when the election comes. What do you think, Garry.”

Gerhardt Alexander Holst of Olympia, Deputy Leader of the Conservative Party, is one of the few moderates left in the Conservative Caucus. His father is former President GA Holst.


Gerhardt Holst of Olympia is the Deputy Conservative Leader.

“I think each of us should be able to vote our conscience. If the Bill is as bad as the Insurance Companies say, we’ll see that during election time.”

David Newton looks at Garry Holst as if he is an insect. Newton believes that the Conservatives should openly oppose the Health Care Bill. Sitting next to Newton is Orson Pratt, Newton’s man on the Education Committee. Pratt also disagrees with Holst.


Orson Pratt of St. Paul is Rutherford’s man on the Education Committee.

“Brad?”

Brad Whitaker of St. Paul, Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs, is the only other Mormon, besides Rutherford, in the Shadow Cabinet.


Brad Whitaker of St. Paul is the Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs.

“I agree with Garry. We put ourselves on record that we opposed the bill. Then, when September 30th comes, and the government tries to put this into place, we hammer them with it.”

“Here here,” the Shadow Treasury Minister says. John Ross Ewing IV of Athens, the Shadow Minister of the Treasury, was the Vice Presidential nominee for the Conservative Party two years ago.


Ross Ewing of Athens is the Shadow Minister of the Treasury.

“Even the Social Democrats concede that it will take a lot of money to establish Universal Health Care. After the election, the country will be begging for new leadership.”

“Henry?”


Henry Godwin of Syracuse is the Shadow Minister of the Navy.

Henry Godwin of Syracuse, Shadow Minister of the Navy is the highest ranking Conservative in the Navy Committee. His father was Randy Godwin, the only Conservative to serve as President of the Allied States.

“I agree with Garry. We let Conservatives in the Assembly vote their conscience.”

“You disagree with us?” David Newton knows that Henry Godwin is good friends with Anna Kaewkhonkaen, the Naval Minister.

“Well, government-run Health Care has worked well in the Navy. I think we should at least consider the provisions of the bill, not just the party that sponsors it.”

“On that note, meeting adjourned.”

After exchanging pleasantries with the rest of the cabinet, Joe Rutherford, Brad Whitaker, Dave Newton and Orson Pratt stay behind.

“Godwin’s falling off,” Pratt says. “He isn’t playing ball.”

“Good riddance,” Newton says. “If it were up to me, both Godwin and Holst would be out. They’re both squishy moderates.”

“It’s not an issue,” Whitaker says. If things go our way, we’ll have our people in charge. The Godwinites and the wishy-washies like Holst won’t have a voice.

“You’re right,” Rutherford says. “We’re setting up the dominoes, gentlemen, and everything will fall our way in November.”

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Finance Committee Hearing
The Treasury Ministry
Assembly Plaza
Andromeda City, Andromeda State
Tuesday, March 9, 2032
3 pm

For much of the afternoon, Assemblywoman Enid Wasserman has testified before the Assembly Finance Committee, answering questions about the Andromeda Health Care Act. During much of her presentation, Wasserman explained the importance of a number of Health Care statistics with a number of charts and graphs. Aside from Assemblyman Rufus Boutwell of Beta City, most of the Committee members listened intently to Wasserman. Boutwell left the Committee meeting after he asked some pointed questions.

Finance Minister Benjamin Blue chairs the Committee Hearing. Sitting next to him is his wife, Assemblywoman Carmen Chu of Silla State. They watch and listen as the last Conservative committee member, Assemblyman Art Benson of Palermo, asks questions about the bill.


Assemblywoman Carmen Chu (SD-Silla) married Assemblyman Benjamin Blue (SD-Palermo) last year.

“One last question: What would prevent me or anyone else from claiming a religious exemption from the Health Care Law? Couldn’t I just say that I was a Christian Scientist or a Jehovah’s Witness?”


Assemblyman Arthur Benson (C-Palermo) spent more than 20 years as a neurosurgeon.

“In your case, Assemblyman Benson, I doubt you could do that. Many of us in the Assembly, yourself included, have benefited from the Health Care provided for Assembly members.”


Assemblywoman Enid Wasserman (SD-Angeles City) is the primary author of the Andromeda Health Care Act.

“But what if I were just Art Benson, private citizen, and I told the government I was a Jehovah’s Witness?”

“If there were enough people who suddenly developed religious objections to the Health Care Act, the government would notice a trend.”

“Thank you.”

The hearing is interrupted by Assemblyman Boutwell, who returns.

“I apologize, Mr. Chairman. After listening to Ms. Wasserman, I started to feel a little sick.”

“We have something that can fix that, Mr. Boutwell.”

The people laugh at Boutwell. Boutwell is embarrassed, but tries to maintain his composure. After the Committee laughs, they look to the Treasury Minister.

“Before we adjourn, the Honorable Assemblyman from Beta City, Alonzo Brown has a few brief questions for Ms. Wasserman.”

The Committee and the audience turn to Alonzo Brown, who sits behind Wasserman. Sitting next to him is Assemblyman Donnie Kurtz of Beta City, his chief lieutenant.


Assemblyman Alonzo Brown (C-Beta City) is the Shadow Minister of Education.

“I’d like to ask not just about the exemptions for those who have religious objections, but for those who live in certain exempt areas. What would stop people from simply moving to those designated areas?”

Assemblywoman Wasserman thinks for a moment.

“Reverend Brown, the reason those specific areas are exempt are because of cultural objections. If there were an influx of people into those areas, they would no longer be exempt. Plus, most of the exempt areas currently lack medical facilities. Once such places are established, most of them will no longer be exempt.”

“And what about people who will take advantage and defraud the system?”

Wasserman reflects for a second.

“Rev. Brown, one of the inspirations for this Bill comes from the Gospel of Matthew. ‘Verily, I say unto you: That which you have done to the least of these,...’”

“...you have also done to me.”

“And, to do this, there is the risk of fraud.”

Rev. Brown thinks for a second.

“An acceptable risk. I thank you, Ms. Wasserman. After everything I’ve read about the bill and after talking with a number of my colleagues, I encourage the Committee to support the Andromeda Health Care Act.”

A number of cameras take pictures of Alonzo Brown. His support of the Andromeda Health Care Act all but ensures it passing. It also highlights a split between the two dominant factions of the Conservative Party, the Evangelical Conservatives of Beta City and the Economic Conservatives led by Joe Rutherford.

After the photographers stop taking pictures, the Finance Minister calls for a Committee vote. The Committee votes 18-7 in favor of the Andromeda Health Care Act.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

The Assembly of the Allied States
Andromeda City, Andromeda State
Thursday, March 11, 2032
10:15 pm

In the Assembly Chamber, much of the day’s debate has been devoted to the Andromeda Health Care Act. Debate began just after noon. Gerhardt Holst, the Deputy Leader of the Conservative Party, assumed the position of Conservative Floor Leader a few hours ago, despite his support for the Bill.

Standing across from Holst is Stephanie Brandt, who assumed the position of the Government’s Floor Manager after speaking in favor of the Bill a few hours ago. Brandt praised the process in which the bill was crafted. Much of the language in the religious exemption clauses was authored by Brandt.


Assemblywoman Stephanie Brandt of Beta City is a floor manager for the Social Democrats.

Presiding over the Assembly is Maxine Shaw. Before the Health Care debate started, Shaw was confirmed as Archibald Thomas’ successor as Minister of Foreign Affairs. A close ally of Vice President Leonard Lawrence, Shaw spoke in favor of the Bill just before Brandt.

The current speaker is Assemblyman Ron Hill of Syracuse State. Before being elected as a Conservative in the last election, Hill previously served in the Assembly as a Social Democrat. Hill basically plans to vote in favor despite the Conservative Leader’s opposition and his personal reservations about the Bill.

Holst, Brandt and Shaw have been sending texts to each other since they all assumed their positions. They all look forward to the debate ending for the night. After Ron Hill speaks, Education Minister Charlotte Young is scheduled to be the final speaker for the night. The Minister’s remarks are expected to be brief.

Karen Vale, Chief of Staff for the Ministry of Education, walks in to the Chamber and hands a folder to Brandt. She then walks over to Holst and gives him what he considers good news.

“Assemblyman Holst, the Education Minister has a statement that she wants put into the record.”

“Thank you, Ms. Vale.”

“Is Mr. Hill the last speaker tonight.”

“He is.”

“Have a good night, Mr. Holst.”

Holst looks at Brandt as Assemblyman Hill continues reading his prepared remarks. They both smile, knowing that Hill will be the concluding speaker tonight. They turn to Assemblyman Hill, who has read for nearly five minutes to a largely empty chamber.

“So, despite my reservations, I plan to vote in favor of the Andromeda Health Care Bill. Thank you, Madam President.”

Assemblywoman Shaw turns to Assemblywoman Brandt.

“Are there any more speakers, Miss Brandt?”

“Madam President, I ask permission to submit remarks from the Education Minister for the Assembly record.”

“If there is no objection, permission granted.”

Nobody objects. There are only four Assemblyman in the Chamber.

“Are there any more speakers from your side, Mr. Holst?”

“Madam President, I ask that the Assembly recess until 10 o’clock tomorrow morning.”

“If there are no objections.”

An objection would trigger a vote of the Assembly, which would mean summoning a majority of Assembly members from their homes or their Andromeda City domiciles.

“The Assembly will reconvene at 10 o’clock tomorrow morning.”

Shaw bangs the gavel. She walks down from the President’s chair and meets Brandt and Holst in front of the rostrum.

“So, did you hear Alex Holmes’ speech?”

Brandt was surprised by the hyperbole Assemblyman Holmes used in his speech.

“He seemed... especially concerned.”

“Alex Holmes is a blowhard.”

Holst, a moderate Conservative, has little use for Holmes.

“But he speaks for a lot of Andromedans.”

“Holmes is a parrot. He used to be a talk show host.”

“But most of his listeners are Conservative, Garry.”

“I know. Many of the voters in my district listen to guys like Holmes and Glen Becker.”

Glen Becker, a former Assemblyman from St. Paul, was the only Conservative to ever serve as Vice President of the Allied States.

Shaw changes the subject.

“So, you’ll both be at Todd House tomorrow?”

“Sure.”

“I’d love to, but Larissa and I are flying back to Olympia tomorrow night.”

“And it would look bad to many of your constituents.”

“I’ll be there in spirit, Ms. Shaw.”

Assemblyman Holst and Assemblywoman Brandt head back to their apartments just outside of the Assembly Plaza. Assemblywoman Shaw’s district is just east of the Assembly Plaza.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

Andromeda News Network
Assembly of the Allied States
Andromeda City, Andromeda State
Friday, March 12, 2032
6:05 pm

ANN Chief Political Affairs Correspondent Polly Cleese stands near a number of Assembly members standing outside of the President’s Office just outside of the Assembly Chamber.


The Assembly of the Allied States.

Although the office was originally designated for the President of the Allied States, the President’s Office is normally used by the younger Assembly members unfortunate enough to preside over the Assembly. Normally, it isn’t used for special events, but because of events that occurred earlier today, President Joe Clark will sign the Andromeda Health Care Act into law in a few minutes.

Cleese begins her report.

“In just a few minutes, President Joe Clark will sign the Andromeda Health Care Act into Law. The Assembly just passed the bill less than a half-hour ago after enduring a delay tactic from a Conservative Assemblyman.”

Cut to coverage from the Assembly floor.

“Assemblyman Rufus Boutwell from Beta City was the first Assembly member scheduled to speak this morning before the vote at 2 o’clock. Instead, Assemblyman Boutwell employed a debate tactic called a filibuster, which is used to delay and ultimately end consideration on a bill.”

Cut to a segment of Boutwell’s speech.

“This bill is Socialism. It goes against everything the Treaty of Portsmouth stands for. It is evil. It must be stopped, and I will do everything in my power to stop it.”

“The primary author of the Health Care Bill, the Conservative Leader and President Clark were scheduled to speak before the vote, which was originally scheduled for 2 pm.

“I’ll be against it in a school. If you support it, you’re a fool. I don’t support the Health Care Law. I don’t support it. Not at all.”


Assemblyman Rufus Boutwell just set the Assembly record for a filibuster by an individual Assembly member.

“Boutwell spoke for just over six hours before a majority of the Assembly voted to close discussion. The vote, 125-74, mirrored the final vote for the Health Care Law.”

Cut back to Cleese.

“We now cut to the signing ceremony. President Clark was originally scheduled to sign the Health Care act at 5pm at Todd House. Instead, the Health Care Act will be the first Act signed into Law in the office since before Todd House was built. President Clark is about to make a few remarks before signing the Andromeda Health Care Act into Law.”

Cut to the inside of the President’s office. President Joe Clark sits at a desk with Vice President Leonard Lawrence and other cabinet members standing behind him. The camera is a bit off, because of the number of people in the office.

“This isn’t exactly how I planned to end this session.”

Some of the Assemblymen laugh.

“It has been more than 20 years since Universal Health Care was first brought to the Assembly of the Allied States. Since that day in 2010, there have been many obstacles preventing the Government from passing comprehensive Health Care for all Andromedans.”

“Many on the other side thought that this day would never come, and there are a number of people to thank. Firstly, I’d like to thank Assemblywoman Enid Wasserman for authoring the original draft and helping to gather support for the bill. I also want to thank everyone who contributed to the legislative process that made the Andromeda Health Care Act into law.”


President Clark attests to the Bill’s passage.

“Now, every citizen of the Allied States will have access to Health Care. Fewer people will suffer from preventable diseases. People won’t have to decide between their health and their pocketbooks. Life spans will increase as well as our quality of life.”

“Each one of us who voted for this piece of legislation will be able to go back to their districts knowing that we made life better for the people of the Andromeda Islands.”

President Clark grabs a pen sitting next to the legislation and signs it, attesting to the passage of the bill. Under the Treaty of Portsmouth, the President or his official designee attests to the passage of any legislation. Bills that pass the Assembly automatically become law.

“With this signing, President Clark hasn’t just made good on a campaign promise from two years ago, he has just achieved a goal that has been pursued since the last days of the Bill Todd Administration. Back to you, Keith.”

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

The Royal Wedding
Baha’i Temple
Al-Abwa, Kingdom of Abu Salih
Saturday, March 16, 2032
Noon

In recent years, the Abu Continent has been in turmoil. For most of the last 400 years, it has been ruled by the Kingdom of Abu-Salih. Now, with help from the World Assembly, the Third Kingdom now rules over a divided, troubled continent.

King Muhammad was put on the throne as a compromise. He is both a descendant of the founding King and a practicing Muslim. The new government has pledged to maintain religious freedom throughout the continent. This hasn’t been easy because certain areas of the Kingdom are dominated by Islam. The new government welcomes a distraction from this issue.

In preparation for the wedding, the government chose to hold the ceremony at the Baha’i Temple. The Baha’i Faith is a religion that embraces tenets of the World’s major religions. The Baha’i Temple was seen as a neutral site for such an event. The Baha’i Faith also maintains neutrality in political affairs.


The Baha’i Temple outside of Al-Abwa.

Muhammad’s eldest son, Crown Prince Asa, completed his studies at the University of Joppa in the Andromeda Islands. Prince Asa is also a student of the Baha’i Faith. While at the University of Joppa, Prince Asa fell in love with Margaret Thomas, the young daughter of Archibald Thomas, the former Andromedan Minister of Foreign Affairs.


Crown Prince Asa is the heir to the Abu Throne.

Sitting on one side of the sanctuary are the Royal Party, led by King Muhammad and his wife, Demetra. The Crown Prince stands to one side of a podium. A number of the Prince’s friends stand behind him, including his best man. The maid of honor and her party stand behind where Margaret Thomas will stand. An official of the Baha’i faith stands behind the podium, ready to officiate. Margaret Thomas’ mother, Margaret McPhilliamy Thomas, sits at the front of the delegation from the Andromeda Islands.


Margaret Thomas’ father recently stepped down as Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Andromeda Islands.

Margaret Thomas emerges from the rear of the church, escorted by her father, Archibald Thomas. The people stand once they see her, proceeding down the aisle in a white wedding dress. Once they reach the front, Archibald Thomas steps back as his daughter faces Prince Asa.

“Who gives away the bride,” the official asks.

“John Archibald Thomas III.”

Archibald Thomas walks over to his wife.

“We gather here today to witness and celebrate the matrimony of Asa al-Salih and Margaret Thomas, a brother and sister in the Baha’i Faith.”

The official seems to ignore the fact that Prince Asa is also the Crown Prince. He officiates as if it is merely a religious ceremony between two believers.

“Margaret Thomas, do you take this man, Asa al-Salih, to have and to hold, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.”

“Asa al-Salih, do you take this woman, Margaret Thomas, to have and to hold, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do.”

“We will all, verily, abide by the Word of God.”

“We will all, verily, abide by the Word of God.”

The official turns to Prince Asa.

“You may now kiss the bride.”

The two kiss.

“Please present yourselves to the witnesses.”

The two turn toward the guests.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you, Mr. And Mrs. Asa al-Salih.”

The crowd cheers as the couple leads the procession out of the Temple. They will go to a room close to the main temple entrance as the rest of the wedding party gathers outside. The couple will then emerge and go to a limousine that will lead a procession to the Royal Residence.

[The Free Mutant Republic of Genosha]

Where do CON and IF stand in the history of the Andromeda Archipelago in 2032? A bad accident? An embarrassment? Why did you leave us? Why?!

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

ISIS Headquarters
Allahabad, Northern Region
Abu Continent
Monday, March 27, 2032
Noon

Two days ago, much of the continent was treated to a welcome distraction from the realities of the Continent. Today, reality confronts the Abu Continent.


Allahabad - Northern Region

In a compound near a nondescript town along a river in the desolate northern region of the Continent, a number of men and women are gathered around a podium. A man dressed in Arab garb speaks to the crowd in Arabic. Next to many of the men are women dressed head-to-toe in black hijab, listening to the speaker talk about freedom.

“It is about time that Islam be the beacon of light that shines over our continent,” the man says in Arabic. “Not the gutter religions of Christianity...”

The crowd jeers.


ISIS: The Independent Sovereign Islamic States, has established itself in the northern Abu Continent.

“Bahai-ism...”

The crowd’s disapproval increases.

“Abu-ism...”

The crowd becomes more incensed when they hear about Abuism, the ideology of the First and Second Kingdom.

“Or the World Assembly.”

The crowd becomes especially incensed.

“We will not submit to these false religions. We will not bow down to their false gods. We will only submit to Allah.”

The crowd cheers. At that moment, Mustafa Hassan emerges from the building, dressed in Arab garb and followed by aides. One of them places a piece of paper on the podium. Hassan, the leader of the radical Muslim faction in the Abu Parliament, approaches the podium. Stretching his arms out, Hassan calms the crowd and leads them in prayer. The men and women bow their heads as Hassan leads a prayer in Arabic.

“In the name of Allah, the most gracious and the most merciful, I greet you in the words of peace, As-salaam alaikum.”

“Wa-alaikum salaam.”

Hasaan gives a brief speech in Arabic.

“For four hundred years, the Kingdom of Abu Salih has brought nothing but shame down upon this continent. In recent years, their power has waned. They have lost the power to stand over us on their own. Instead, they have had to lean on the World Assembly in order to maintain their rule.”


Mustafa Hassan leads ISIS in the northern Abu Continent.

“We do not accept this rule. We cannot accept these false gods or their puppet masters. We will not submit to the false King who calls himself Muhammad, shaming the name of the Prophet by accepting the ‘guidance’ of the World Assembly.”

“We will not accept the puppet regime of the World Assembly, which is led by the bastard, Mike Knox. We cannot accept bastard rule.”

The crowd cheers.

“Moments ago, our political and religious leaders have agreed to establishing a charter which declares our independence from the Kingdom of Abu Salih. We are no longer subjects of the Kingdom of Abu Salih. We are Independent, Sovereign, Islamic States. Our rights are not given to us by the false King and his bastard regime. They are gifts, bestowed upon us from the Most High God.”

“I am proud to be the first to sign this Charter, which establishes our freedom from the bastard regime. This is a first step toward making Islam the light that shines over this continent.”

A number of clerics and other men in Arab garb move behind Hassan. Cameras start flashing as Hassan signs the charter. After a dozen other clerics sign the charter, Hassan gives a few more remarks in Arabic.

“I hereby order a copy of this charter to be delivered directly to the false king, so that there is no doubt of where we stand. He needs to understand that his rule over our continent is over.”

The crowd cheers.

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

OOC: The Andromeda Archipelago is currently in transition as far as finding a regional home.

General Conference
Women’s Meeting
LDS Conference Center
Salt Lake City, State of Deseret
Saturday, April 3, 2032
5:00 pm

Every year in early April, the LDS Church holds a general conference in Salt Lake City. This third general meeting at the conference center is designated as the Woman’s Meeting, where a member of the all-male LDS leadership addresses an almost exclusively female audience.


The LDS Conference Center in Salt Lake City.

Among the many women filing in to the Conference Center are four prominent females members of the Andromeda LDS Church. Their husbands are either prominent leaders in the Andromeda LDS Church or high-ranking members of the Assembly of the Allied States.

The children of these prominent women are not in attendance this afternoon. They’re being watched by Joe Rutherford’s personal assistant, an immigrant from East Asia who both runs the Rutherford household and accompanies him wherever he goes. The young woman also has two children of her own.

Leading the female delegation is Michelle Merkley Pratt, the young wife of Orson Pratt. She is more than 20 years younger than her husband, whose first wife died a few years ago. Michelle Pratt is President of the LDS Relief Society, which makes her the highest ranking woman in the LDS Church.

An alumnus of the University of St. Paul, Michelle Merkley Pratt attended high school with the girl who would become her step-daughter, Myrtle Pratt. She is also visibly pregnant with what would be her husband’s fourth child.


Michelle Merkley Pratt married Orson Pratt after his first wife died.

Sitting next to Mrs. Pratt is Marilyn Wells Whitaker, Michelle Pratt’s predecessor as President of the Relief Society. A graduate of the University of St. Paul, Marilyn Whitaker is also the only female in the LDS Church who serves in the Assembly of the Allied States, representing a district in St. Paul. Marilyn Whitaker was also a Social Studies Teacher and School Administrator before being elected to the Assembly.


Marilyn Wells Whitaker is perhaps the most influential woman in St. Paul State.

Marilyn and Brad Whitaker have been married for 20 years and have three children.

The most notable thing about the Andromedan delegation to the LDS General Conference is who isn’t in attendance. Rebecca Bittner Newton, the wife of Andromeda LDS leader David Newton, hasn’t been seen in public in several months.

Although she wasn’t born into the LDS Church, Rebecca Newton seemed to adjust well to the LDS Church soon after her marriage. Since the birth of their son, she hasn’t been especially good about attending church. It is rumored that Mrs. Newton has had a history of drug and alcohol abuse.

Sitting on the other side of Mrs. Pratt is Miranda LaRue Husted. She and her husband, Chuck Husted, met when he was an officer in the Andromeda Navy. She was an actress and singer, trying to make it big in Joppa. Neither she nor her husband were born into the church. Her husband is the second ranking member of the Assembly’s Naval Committee, behind ranking member Henry Godwin. She and Husted have been married for the past five years and have two children.


Miranda LaRue Husted was an actress in Joppa when she met Chuck Husted.

Husted appears bored as the male, elderly speaker lectures a room full of women about women’s issues. She looks over to Shelley Pratt and Marilyn Whitaker and is amazed by how attentive they look to the speaker’s every word. She then turns to the last remaining woman leading the Andromedan delegation, who is staring off into space.

Julia Alexander Rutherford was also an aspiring actress before she met her husband, Joe Rutherford. Julia Alexander had appeared in a few films in Joppa before she was introduced to Joe Rutherford, a wealthy young attorney, an Assembly member and a bishop in the Andromeda LDS Church.

Julia Rutherford’s aunt, Judith Alexander Holst, served as both Minister of Foreign Affairs and first lady of the Allied States. Her uncle, GA Holst, was the second President of the Allied States. She wasn’t born into the LDS Church. She and her husband, the leader of the Conservative Party in the Allied States, have been married for six years and have no children.


Julia Rutherford’s uncle was former Andromeda President GA Holst.

Miranda Husted looks at Julia Rutherford and sees that she has a vacant look on her face. On the surface, Rutherford appears to be paying attention, but Husted suspects that she is staring into space.

“Great speech, huh?”

“Yes. Yes it is.”

“This old man knows a lot about young women.”

“Yes. Yes it is.”

“I could really use a drink right now.”

“Yes. Yes it is.”

Husted touches Rutherford’s hand. Rutherford’s concentration is broken.

“It’s okay. It’ll be over soon.”

Rutherford smiles.

“I know.”

Rutherford resumes staring into the middle distance, waiting for the speech to conclude. After a few minutes, she touches Husted’s hand.

“Miranda, I’m up for a trip to Margaritaville. Wanna come?”

“I’ll drive.”

[The Andromeda Archipelago]

General Conference
Sustaining Meeting
LDS Conference Center
Salt Lake City, State of Deseret
Sunday, April 4, 2032
3 pm

In just about an hour, the LDS Church members gathered in the LDS Conference Center will vote to sustain the current LDS leadership. Among the people gathered are perhaps the five most influential Mormons from the Andromeda Archipelago. Each man, with the exception of Newton, sits next to his wife.

One man sits next to a woman young enough to be his daughter. Orson Pratt is currently the second highest ranking Conservative member of the Allied States’ Education Committee.


Orson Pratt of St. Paul

A graduate of the University of St. Paul, Pratt was an educator and school administrator before becoming the longest serving Governor in St. Paul State history. Pratt has been a member of the Assembly of the Allied States since 2022. Pratt listens intently to the Church President.

The second man, Charles Eric Husted is currently the second highest ranking Conservative member of the Allied States Navy Committee. A graduate of the Andromeda Navy, Husted served as a Captain in the Andromeda Navy during the July Conflict before his election to the Assembly in 2026. Husted and his wife both appear bored.


Charles Eric Husted of Andromeda City.

The third man sits between his wife and Julia Rutherford. Bradley Whitaker is currently the Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs. A graduate of the University of St. Paul, Whitaker is one of the few members of the Foreign Affairs Committee who hasn’t previously served in the Ministry of Affairs. A skeptic of the World Assembly, Whitaker was elected to the Assembly in 2024. Whitaker and his lovely wife stare intently at the Church President.


Brad Whitaker of St. Paul.

Sitting on the edge of the aisle next to the Conservative Leader, David Wayne Newton is currently the Shadow Minister of the Treasury. A graduate of the University of St. Paul, Newton is also the head of the LDS Church in the Andromeda Islands. A former Governor of St. Paul, Newton also happens to be a childhood friend of current Conservative leader Joe Rutherford. Newton was first elected in 2026. Newton pays attention to both the Church President and a group of page boys discreetly passing messages to people in the audience.


David Newton of St. Paul

Sitting next to both his wife and Newton is Joseph Franklin Smith Rutherford, the current the Leader of the Conservative Party in the Allied States. A graduate of the University of St. Paul’s Law Center, Rutherford has been Conservative Leader since last year. Rutherford also serves as first counselor to the Head of the Andromeda LDS Church. Rutherford previously served in the Assembly from 2017 to 2022 when he was elected Governor of St. Paul. His current stint in the Assembly began in 2024. Rutherford appears about as attentive as his wife appears bored and listless.


Joe Rutherford of St. Paul

Dave Newton sits on the aisle hoping that he will hear from the General Authority. Newton has made several requests to the General Authority for a meeting with both the President of the LDS Church and the President of the State of Deseret. Newton wants to discuss the spread of the LDS Church throughout the Andromeda Archipelago.

As the elderly President of the LDS Church speaks, a young page walks in Newton’s direction with an envelope. Newton hopes that the envelope contains the answer he has been waiting for. The boy whispers to Newton.

“This is for you and Mr. Rutherford.”

Newton accepts the envelope and waits for the page boy to leave before opening the letter and reading it. Newton appears happy as he reads the contents of the handwritten letter. Newton taps Rutherford on the shoulder.

“What is it, Dave?”

“I just received a reply from President Jones.”

“What does he have to say?”

“It looks like we’ll be here until the 7th.”

After the Conference concludes, the Andromedan delegation planned to spend Monday touring Salt Lake City before leaving the State of Deseret on Tuesday. Now, because of the letter, they will meet with LDS President George Jones and State of Deseret President Willard Hall at Jones’ residence on Tuesday.