Chapter 57

  The peaceful sound of Serrakin violinists and Hebridean cellists hung in the air of Ascended Lounge, one of the many Sky bars hosting the official election rally afterparty. Wine and Champagne glasses clinked together celebrating a historic election night as millions of people throughout the Hebridan and Serrakin Federation cast their ballots on whether to join the Lantean Commonwealth.

  "You gave a splendid speech today Amos Fyree," said Freyr as he and Amos perused the crowd.

  Amos was wearing a more formal version of his Star Fleet uniform, printed for him by Freya on Alfheim. The entire ensemble closely resembled Lantean attire and bridged the gap between ancient couture and the coming new age.

  "Thank you Freyr. Any word on any of the other worlds in the Protective Planet's Treaty joining our cause?"said Amos as he sipped on his glass of champagne.

  "Yes, indeed,"said Freyr. "My fellow Asgard informed me hours ago that all of the worlds in the Protective Planet's Treaty will be joining the Lantean Commonwealth".

  "That's excellent news. That brings our total number of worlds close to 50," said Amos, an affable hint of pride in his voice.

  "You are absolutely right," said Freyr, his voice also teaming with pride. "Our journey has come a long way since we set off from Valhalla, now a true coalition of worlds can be forged and peace and prosperity can once again fill our regions of space."

  While they were speaking a reporter and cameraman walked up to Amos and begged him for an interview.

  "Hello, my name is Adaral Hadraig, reporter for Tech Con News Network. Can I please have a moment of your time,"said the eager journalist.

  "Why yes, yes you can," stated Amos, a small grin growing on his face.

  This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

  The seasoned reporter then positioned the cameraman in front of Amos with excellent backdrops of both the city skyline and Amos's nearly Lantean attire in clear view. He then cleared his voice and prepared to make a formal report on the election, the Commonwealth, and what it means for the Hebridan people.

  "We are live at the official election after party on top of the sky bar Ascended Lounge, a proud subsidiary of Tech Con Group and Corso Temporal Eateries. I have with me the one and only Amos Fyree, founder of the Lantean Commonwealth,"said the professional reporter.

  Mr. Fyree, recent polling data suggests a resounding victory for President Hagan's ruling party as well as admission into the Lantean Commonwealth. How does that make you feel?" asked Adaral Hadraig.

  Amos smiled at the camera, "Why it makes me feel great!" said Amos finishing off the rest of his champagne. "Worlds like Hebridan, as well as its parallel colonies, are what we need in the Commonwealth. You're a rich capitalist society, you have a dynamic democracy, and you have a culture unlike other worlds in this galaxy. That's everything we need as we go forward into the future."

  "Moving on to my second question; Mr. Fyree, tell me, what are the next steps after the election is over and Hebridan decides to join the Commonwealth?"asked Adaral.

  "Well immediately after we are given the go ahead by the Federation government, my elves will arrive –"

  "Those are those beautiful women we saw earlier during the Rally, correct?" the Adaral interrupted.

  "Why yes, they are," confirmed Amos. "My elves will arrive from Alfheim and deliver several technologies as well as humanitarian supplies that should immediately make life on Hebridan easier. Next an embassy will be established on Hebridan facilitating intercommonwealth trade and communication between Hebridan, its colonies, and the rest of the Commonwealth. Finally, in a couple months we will be holding a meeting of all member worlds where they will officially sign the charter establishing the Lantean Commonwealth."

  "Very good, Mr. Fyree, we at TCNN, as well as all of Hebridan, eagerly await our joining of your Commonwealth. Thank you for your time and I hope you enjoy the rest of your night," said the Adaral Hadraig as he brought his broadcast to a close.

  Before the TCNN reporter could leave, however, Amos grabbed him by the arm. "Sorry, before you leave, I actually have something I want to ask you."

  The reporter and his camera man continued rolling as Amos delivered his question, "Assuming that we win the election, how would TCNN like to expand to other worlds."

  Adaral Hadraig looked at the camera with an amazed look on his face. "That would be splendid."

  Amos laughed, "Picture this: Instead of going by "Tech Con News Network" you go by "The Commonwealth News Network". How does that sound?"

  A look of excitement grew on Adaral's face. "T-that sounds Amazing! And broadcasting on so many worlds. I would really like that alot."

  Turning to look at the camera, Adaral Hadraig shifted to his formal reporter persona.

  He then lifted up his microphone, and turned to face the camera:

  "You heard that right folks, a vote in the affirmation on today's ballot may mean, yours truly, may be getting a bigger paycheck and a bigger job. Please hurry to the polls, or use your data pad at home to cast your vote. Once again this is Adaral Hadraig with TCNN, Tech Con News Network. But if you vote yes, TCNN may soon be called: The Commonwealth News Network. Goodnight. Signing off."