Well then, the sequel has arrived, officially. Much will happen here, and I will explain the formatting as the need arises.

To begin, we'll cover the intervening period between the end of Vicarious and the beginning of Kali Yuga in the form of some newspaper articles. This is a Capitol newspaper by the way, so views will be colored by that perspective. More details will follow in the concluding AN.

Prologue 1: The Emergence of a Scene

A newspaper is a device for making the ignorant more ignorant and the crazy crazier.
-H.L. Mencken

Hunger Games Victor Arrested!
Cassie Dawson Placed in Solitary Confinement in District 2 Prison

Earlier today, after her arrival back in her home district of 2, Cassie Dawson – the victor of the 107th Hunger Games – was taken immediately to prison. She has been placed into solitary confinement well away from other prisoners.

The arrest was met with much outcry from District 2 citizens, many of whom arrived at the train station to protest the event. They were heard, loudly shouting such phrases as, "Free our victor!" This comes after a controversial interview between Master of Ceremonies, Amethyst Stadler, and Dawson following Dawson's victory in the Games.

Initially, the interview went as expected, where Dawson answered questions about her time in the arena and her thoughts on the tributes. However, when the pair turned to review footage from the Bloodbath, Dawson loudly protested, taking issue with Ms. Stadler's questions about District 1 tribute Tabby Gold. What followed was a tirade of anti-Capitolite remarks and conspiratorial claims.

The audience was rightly appalled by Dawson's words, and they proceeded to boo her off the stage, which Dawson did not take kindly too.

Later, she was put under permanent guard by a small Peacekeeper force until her time in the Capitol was to come to an end, when she was to be granted a home in District 2 amongst the victors of that district. Dawson evidently took issue with the issuing of a guard. She murdered the two Peacekeeper's watching her door before disappearing into the night. Eyewitness reports suggest she might have been in the Capitol's major club district, though there is no camera evidence to prove this.

She was placed under arrest the next morning and brought to Capitol Station in handcuffs before being transported back to District 2.

We reached out to Peacekeeper authorities regarding the decision to return Dawson to District 2, but we received no reply. The Peacekeeper organization is going through some turmoil at the moment, following the arrest of its former leader, Howard Malterk, who was found associating with members of the now deposed Panemanian Nationalist Coalition.

We did receive comment from District 2's mayor, who had this to say of Dawson's arrest: "It should be known that I unequivocally condemn the remarks made by Miss Dawson during her interview with Ms. Stadler. District 2 is home to many loyal patriots, and they believe in our republic. I'm sure they would join me in saying that we do not appreciate Miss Dawson's views on the Capitol, or on Capitolites in general, and that Miss Dawson's views are by no means a reflection of the views of any other District 2 citizens."

It remains to be seen what future punishment might await the Hunger Games victor when the political situation in the Capitol stabilizes. Many have argued that Dawson should receive the death penalty, but such a decision is likely months away, as the President himself would be forced to rule on this matter, given Dawson's status as a victor of the Games. The new President, Farrow Silver, has had much to handle these past few days cleaning up after the chaos left following his predecessor's disappearance, leaving him unable to attend to this particular matter.

The New Head Peacekeeper?
Peacekeeper Forces Placed Under Direct Control of CSIS

Only a few short hours ago, President Farrow Silver gave his second address to the nation. Televised from the conference room in the President's Palace, the topic at hand was the leadership of the Peacekeeper forces.

Since Howard Malterk's deposition, the Peacekeepers have been essentially leaderless, though the forces were united behind President Silver during his decision to arrest PNC members. Today, the President rectified this issue, placing the forces under the leadership of the Capitol Special Intelligence Service.

"The good men and women of the CSIS have watched over this nation for many years, guarding it from all manner of dark and evil enemies," Silver said. "I can think of no better scheme than to integrate Panem's two greatest forces for good into one organization. The Peacekeepers will maintain their autonomy and set their own codes of conduct as they have before, though they will now be directed by the CSIS Logistics Division."

The CSIS is a rather shadowy organization, hidden from the prying eyes even of Capitolites, and with good reason. The identities of intelligence officers cannot be revealed to the public, as doing so would compromise their ability to fully perform their duties. Thus, it is unknown who exactly will be acting as the direct leader of the Peacekeepers. Many have suggested this is dangerous, making the Peacekeepers unaccountable to the population as they have been in the past, but it is much more accurate to say that the Peacekeepers will be under steadier and wiser direction than they have been previously.

This decision is a rather unprecedented move, but that only remains the trend for President Silver. He arrested members of the PNC and removed the Head Peacekeeper from his position all during his first morning as President, for example.

These unprecedented decisions, combined with Silver's sudden and dramatic rise to power have led many to speculate that someone is guiding the President's decisions, perhaps in the CSIS. Of course, we decry this conspiracy theory. These speculations are reckless, threatening the cohesive stability of the republic, and they echo the sentiments of the PNC.

The Peacekeepers have served us well for many years, as has the CSIS, and both will continue to do so, working in even closer consort than they have previously.

Back-to-Back Victors?
Cato Arsinius takes up Head Trainer Position in District 2's largest career academy

After years of resistance, the two-time Hunger Games victor, Cato Arsinius, finally accepted the position of Head Trainer at District 2's largest career academy. The reasons for his decision are, at this time, unknown, though it is suspected that Vermeule Green – the academy's former Head Trainer, and father of the runner up in the 107th Hunger Games, Jason Green – pressured administrators to replace him with Arsinius following his retirement.

Green, having been a trainer for most of his adult life, and the Head Trainer for ten of those years, retired immediately after the completion of the 107th Hunger Games, claiming he, "required time to grieve." Many expected Zane Williamson, Green's protégé, and personal instructor of Jason Green, to become the next Head Trainer. However, with Arsinius's hat suddenly thrown in the ring, the administrators felt obligated to elect him to the position.

"Cato Arsinius is a legend," the Head Administrator said. "He is truly one-of-a-kind, the greatest living competitor of the Games, and probably the greatest ever competitor too. It wouldn't surprise me if our membership skyrocketed this upcoming year, even amongst teenagers who probably won't make it to the Games at all, either by physical limitation or by choice. Cato is just that much of a draw. This is the biggest moment in the history of the academy, especially since we've been trying to hire him for years."

Since his victory in the third quarter quell, Arsinius has been something of a recluse, rarely venturing out in public, and only when absolutely required. Yet, he could still be seen performing grueling workouts every single day, even after his second victory in the Games. He attracted large crowds who sought to watch him train. He valued his privacy, however, and chased the onlookers away on multiple occasions, even taking up a sword against a man on one occasion (the charges for that incident were dropped.)

On occasion, when he was required to mentor a tribute, Arsinius would come to the Capitol and provide an interview or two, though generally he avoided the spotlight. After so many years of congratulations, it seems that Arsinius has come to loathe the attention of the press, as he dodges them whenever possible.

When we reached out to Cato for comment on his new position, he did not reply. His enigmatic reputation is well-earned, evidently.

One thing is sure however, with Arsinius ascending to the position of Head Trainer, the cadets in the academy are sure to progress rapidly. Already, academies in Districts 2 and 4 are ramping up their training programs to compensate for this change in leadership. The District 2 academy has been steady under Green's leadership, but Arsinius is sure to bring a new dynamism to the system.

We wait with bated breath for the performance of District 2's tributes under the new leadership of Cato Arsinius. For, they are sure to be outstanding.

Rioters in District 12 Clash with Peacekeepers!
12 Killed and 30 Injured in the Faceoff as Peacekeeper Presence in District 12 Increases

President Silver promised to further arm the Peacekeepers in the eastern districts, and today we saw a turning of the tide, as the rioters broke ranks and ran as the shooting started. For the past week or so, the rioters have had the upper hand over Peacekeeper forces, running roughshod in urban centers and generally causing chaos.

A group of a hundred or more rioters tore up the city street late last night, smashing in windows of stores, stealing, and causing large amounts of damage. Peacekeepers arrived on the scene after an hour or so of unchecked madness and tried to disperse the crowd nonviolently at first. They wielded riot shields to begin with, pushing the crowd back from the buildings in the street. Though, as rioters began to break through the shield wall, violence broke out.

First, the Peacekeepers set to with batons, but as they were further overwhelmed by the much larger and more violent group of rioters, they pulled out their guns, firing on the crowd. They dispersed quickly, fleeing in every direction, and a few were even hurt in the stampede. Twelve were killed by the shots.

"It's a positive outcome," the District 12 mayor answered, when asked about the clash. "I'm very thankful to President Silver for providing us the means and encouragement to begin solving this problem. His presence in the President's Palace as opposed to his predecessor's is a welcome change. I hope he will continue to support us in the future, as we continue to fight back these riots."

President Viktor Cornell, referenced briefly by the mayor, neglected to respond to the riots quickly, breeding much discontent in eastern districts. District 12 in particular has appreciated the change in scenery within the office of the Presidency, as President Silver may provide them with a more proactive assistant in handling these dangerous matters.

Dangerous New Ideology?
Former Hunger Games Victor Takes Up Intellectual Arms for "Syndicalism"

Mikaela Latour is best known for her victory in the Hunger Games, a heart-rending Games to be sure. With all their enemies vanquished, she and her lover, Vicente Saracuza from District 1, were made to play a concluding game within the Games. They were given two pills, one poisoned, one not. Mikaela received the clean pill, granting her the victory.

Her performance in those Games was admirable, though nothing otherworldly. She claimed only three kills during her time in the arena, fighting adequately for a career. Vicente was perhaps the better combatant of the two, but they were bound to each other by a very real and visceral love for one another. It made them a rather unique pairing in the history of the Games. Many tributes established sexual relationships, but few ever developed real romantic feelings.

However, since the end of those Games, Latour has become something of a renegade, engaging in many subversive activities. Based on her own comments, this is because of the perceived ill treatment of her former lover. She believes the Capitol could have allowed the two of them to return home together, but you know as well as I that there is only ever one Hunger Games victor. Breaking this precedent would surely breed a future disaster as far as the Games are concerned.

Recently, Latour has positioned herself as a rather prominent anti-Capitol leader. She has garnered an incredibly large following in only a few short weeks, boasting skyrocketing statistics on secretive internet sites. After doing some research into her work, we feel comfortable enough to say that Latour's ideas are not only insane, but also dangerous, and potentially threatening to the republic. She claims to have rebirthed and "reformulated" a political ideology known as Syndicalism.

Syndicalism was born in the time before even the Dark Days, of which not much is known. Latour defines Syndicalism as such: "It's a system which protects the interests of the common man from those who would exploit him, but simultaneously retains an orderly and effective economic structure. By passing control of the means of production to workers' 'syndicates,' we can both ensure the rights of workers and the continued function of a stable economy."

Workers' syndicates are organizations of workers designed to promote the interest of that particular trade. So, there might be a Miners' Syndicate or a Carpenters Syndicate, and the economy would be sectioned into many pieces to allow each of these Syndicates to function mostly autonomously.

Obviously, one can see the problems inherent in this ideology. Firstly, it would decentralize power to an unfathomable degree, limiting communication between different industries. More importantly though, Syndicalism would reject the doctrine of economic growth which is so valuable to Panem, sacrificing growth for a mere desire to appear 'kind.'

See, with Syndicalism, it is obvious who is good and bad, and who is right and wrong. The workers are good, and the owners are bad. High incomes are good, but profits – which help create those high incomes – are bad. The very gray and complex morality of the world around us can be reduced to simple blacks and whites, like you might see in a movie.

This Syndicalism is transparently a joke, the sort of thing that a stupid person would think is smart simply because it includes foolish phrases like 'means of production.' Yet, despite its foolishness, the thoughts of Mikaela Latour have spread widely, and more and more people are being drawn to Syndicalism. This is a phenomenon which all patriots should monitor closely, for the future of Panem may depend on it.

Senator Stryka Speaks!
For the First Time Since Her Arrest, Lyla Stryka Addresses the Public, Promises to Continue the PNC

The young Senator Lyla Stryka provided a public announcement from her apartment today, speaking for the first time since her arrest. She recently became a household name when she gave a fiery speech on the senate floor, calling for a national rebirth and greater militarism. Though, she was arrested the following morning during Farrow Silver's inaugural address.

In the time since, she has remained under house arrest along with other high-profile PNC members and Howard Malterk, former Head Peacekeeper. It isn't known what she has been doing since then, but she – along with the others who were arrested – is under twenty-four hour guard, ensuring she remains exactly where she is.

Yet, simply being arrested has not stopped Senator Stryka from reaching out to the public. She recorded and released a video this morning where she detailed her experience of being arrested, stating that she "[does] not hold anything against the people who believe [she] is a terrorist or something similar."

"I have great faith in the People of my home," she said. "We are strong, and – when not guided by degenerate morons – we're wise too. We deserve a leader who can continue to promote this strength and wisdom, someone who can act as an example of these values. I wouldn't ask anyone who is sitting in their home now, frightened of what might happen to them if they speak out, to openly and loudly declare your support. For now, you should be patient and try to hang on as best you can.

"It's all I'm doing now, hanging on. I'm locked up in an apartment at the moment, and I'm not sure what consequences I might suffer for releasing this. Anyway, all I can do now, I suppose, is to promise that I will continue to lead the PNC in its exile. The fact that we are a banned political entity does not mean that we are a dead one. We will fight on, and I'll be right at the front of that battle every step of the way. It's the least I can do for the country I love so dearly."

None of these comments are any surprise coming from Senator Stryka. She is the daughter of the infamous general Vladimir Stryka, former High Commander of the now defunct Capitol army. General Stryka was one of the three major players vying for Panem's Presidency following the death of President Snow. He too advocated a sort of national rebirth, opposing the republican model put forth by Cornell Viktor and Lyciscus Danil. Obviously, his terrifying tendencies have been reflected onto his daughter.

We reached out to Peacekeeper forces for comment, wondering what consequences Stryka might meet. We have not received any reply.

New Extremism?
Cato Arsinius Formalizes "Blackshirts"

Over the last few weeks, journalists around District 2 have reported on Cato Arsinius, hounding him with many questions as he began to work in his position of Head Trainer. Arsinius resisted attempts to speak to him, avoiding contact with the press as much as possible. This caused a precipitous drop in stories on the two-time victor, though that drop has now reversed.

Reports from inside the academy suggest that Cato might be training the cadets for more than just the Hunger Games. Cadets have been trained in firearms, disciplined team maneuvers, and military strategy – all of which are rather unusual for Games training. Yet, this was seen as nothing more than the diligence expected from a two-time victor of the Games.

However, tunes have changed, as many of these cadets have taken to marching in the streets and completing urban training exercises. This might perhaps be dismissible if not for the manner in which they organize themselves.

Made up mostly of older cadets and even of some beyond reaping age, they are known by District 2 citizens as the "Blackshirts." Their name was earned by the all-black uniforms the cadets wear, each also marked by a golden Mockingjay pin on the left breast. The cadets seem to be a paramilitary group of some sort, and the Mockingjay insignia only proves this.

It is well known that, during the rebellion, the Mockingjay was a popular rebel symbol, as the birds were often used to ferry messages back and forth between rebel camps. The sight of the symbol in District 2 has been disconcerting to many of the older citizens, however, those younger are either view it positively or apathetically.

Furthermore, they have taken to flying their own flags, colored red and marked with a blue cross and a white lightning bolt at its center. A black Mockingjay is emblazoned in the top left corner. This is not only a move against the Capitol, shunning the traditional Panem flag for a different one, but also the mark of a transition to the far-right.

They claim their flag represents District 2 and its people, who, according to the Blackshirts, are, "proud and strong with the blood of kings flowing through their veins."

The Blackshirts even perform their own military salutes, a two-fingered gesture formed at the end of an extended arm. This is well-known as another rebellion symbol, only further proving the group's extremism.

These Blackshirts, if their in-academy methods are to be believed, may be planning something dangerous, and District 2 citizens should treat these youths as armed and dangerous. They should be avoided at all costs, and where possible, prevented from entering your local communities.

The Return of the PNC?
PNC Parties Form in Districts 1, 4, 7, and 10

As a third of the Districts approach their mayoral elections, the PNC has thrown its hat into the ring. While it might be a bit late, late comers have claimed election victories before, so a PNC victory is not impossible. Yet, it remains to be seen whether any of these parties will remain in existence. Though, existing as entities beyond the Capitol may benefit them on that front, giving them some cushion from the influence of the establishment government.

Lyla Stryka formed the PNC in the aftermath of President Cornell Viktor's sudden disappearance (he has not reappeared, and is assumed dead,) demanding that Panem return to an ideology of militarism and nationalism. Since then, the ideology has been dubbed "Neo-Nationalism" by a number of academics and other researchers.

Farrow Silver banned the PNC in the Capitol, though its influence certainly grows in the shadows at an unknown rate. Yet, in the districts, no such ban exists. Thus, some ambitious Neo-Nationalists have formed branches of the PNC in each of the Districts which have upcoming elections.

Panem's districts elect leaders on a rotating cycle of three-year terms – as established in President Viktor's constitution. During each year individually, four districts elect a mayor. This year, those districts are 1, 4, 7, and 10.

Many in District 4 grow concerned with the influence of Mikaela Latour's Syndicalism, as she has expanded her online platform into an in-person one. District 4's PNC hopes to exploit fears of Syndicalism and wield them to its advantage, and this plan seems to be working already, as people are joining at unprecedented rates.

The Liberal Party mayor in 4 has thus far refused to take drastic action with regard to Ms. Latour. He is likely attempting to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst all the chaos to avoid losing his seat to the Conservative Party candidate. However, the PNC may throw a wrench into this election, gathering enough support to throw the vote astray. Before the PNC entrance, the Liberal Party was expected to retain the seat by a narrow margin.

In District 1, the PNC will likely hold less influence, as the Conservative mayor is running comfortably ahead of her rival. The PNC stands to draw most of its support from the conservatives, though it may draw some liberals as well. Regardless, the odds do not favor the PNC in 1.

However, District 7 is another story entirely. The candidates put forth by the Conservative and Liberal parties are disliked by the populace. Many in District 7 grow discontented with corruption problems, as the previous mayor was impeached after being caught taking bribes and printing false ballots in the previous election. There may be a home for the PNC here, and many citizens of 7 have signed up for the party.

Much like District 1, the Conservative Party has a strong foothold in District 10, and it appears virtually certain that the incumbent will retain his seat.

If the President allows these parties to form and run, then we could see an even greater jump in membership than we have already, as many people will wait to see the action from the Capitol to prevent possible damage to themselves and their reputations.

While many have signed up for the separate branches of the PNC, it is not yet known whether these entities are linked to one another. It seems very likely, though no link has been confirmed.

District 2 in CHAOS!
Blackshirts Seize Government, Cato Arsinius Names Himself Acting Dictator

Only hours ago, a Blackshirt protest turned violent. The crowd of militant cadets was gathered outside District 2's Mayoral Mansion, hurling verbal abuse at the mayor. Peacekeepers monitored the situation, keeping the protestors at bay. The two groups came to blows when a Blackshirt reportedly took a swing at one of the Peacekeepers, though it is unclear whether this is true at the moment.

Fighting spread from the center of the protest to the edges, and the Blackshirts quickly overwhelmed the Peacekeepers, knocking many of them back and trampling over them. They burst into the Mayoral Mansion waving their lightning bolt flags, throwing aside those in the way. Led by Cato Arsinius himself, a group of Blackshirts found the mayor and his family, immediately arresting them as the Peacekeepers out front were disarmed and also put under arrest.

When the mayor was dragged from his home, those watching outside – even those who were not Blackshirts – cheered loudly, applauding the deposition of the mayor. He was taken to a local jail where he is still being held, it is not known what punishment might await him. Many of the Peacekeepers were badly beaten, but none were killed, and Arsinius was seen breaking up the more violent encounters.

Only an hour or so later, citizens from all over the city gathered outside the Mayoral Mansion as Cato Arsinius stood on the second-floor balcony overlooking them. Beside him was Vermeule Green, the man he replaced as Head Academy trainer. Rousing speeches were given while the lightning bolt flag hung below the railing.

"I speak for all of us when I say we've had enough of this regime!" Arsinius said. "This so-called mayor and his government are corrupt, and they defile the great home of District 2's people. The duty is mine to fix this regime, to turn it around and form it into something worthy of the people."

There was deafening applause and many proud two-fingered salutes. Arsinius saluted the audience in return.

Those of us who are more skeptical of Arsinius wonder whether this coup – regardless of its bloodlessness – might signal the arrival of a dangerous administration in District 2, one which might seek to end the republic altogether. After all, Arsinius's wording was rather vague when he used the word, "regime."

The actions of Arsinius over the next few days will determine whether he might be a danger to the republic or not.

More Extremism!
Syndicalist "Blueshirts" Form in District 12

Following the coup in District 2, it appears other extremists are growing bold too. Many discontented miners in District 12 have banded together in groups, demanding – oftentimes violently – better working conditions. Evidently these workers do not understand that they work in a coal mine, where working conditions will never be pleasant.

With syndicates officially forming in 12 – and others emerging in District 8 – the situation has rapidly destabilized. Only two months after the riots were shut down, District 12 has already fallen back into chaos. This time, the workers are far more organized than previously. They have taken to wearing blue uniforms, thus garnering their nickname, and they wander about the district smashing up shops and setting cars on fire.

However, this time they aren't aimless. They have a leader: Yew LaBrie, victor of the 100th Hunger Games.

LaBrie is well known for his antics in the district, highly regarded as somewhat of a degenerate who engages in ridiculous chaos merely for the sake of causing trouble. He is a drunk and a chain-smoker who, according to a source close to LaBrie, smokes "probably two packs of cigarettes per day." Six months ago, LaBrie was arrested for a single night after being thrown out of a bar for picking fights.

Now, LaBrie is leader the Blueshirts, throwing Molotov cocktails just like the rest of them, and breaking into buildings to lay beatdowns on mining managers and supervisors. Yet, despite the violence, sources claim that much of District 12 agrees with the cause of the Blueshirts.

Peacekeepers have been mobilized to handle the violence, but, after the rioting of previous months, they are undermanned and underequipped, and they are losing ground to the Blueshirts. The mayor, as of last night, openly called for President Silver to send in Capitol police forces to help quell the violence.

President Silver has yet to speak on this violence, though he is expected to at tomorrow's press conference.

Support for PNC Parties Grows!
Former Head Peacekeeper Howard Malterk Officially Endorses PNC Ahead of Mayoral Elections

With elections approaching in Districts 1, 4, 7, and 10, there is much speculation regarding who might win, and by how much. As voting begins next week, it is only right that we do one final check up on the status of the districts ahead of this crucial period.

Following the sudden resurgence of riots in District 12, the appearance of similar violence in District 8, and the Blackshirt coup in District 2, everyone is on edge. The growing radicalism of surrounding districts has led many to wonder what might happen in the elections, and whether there might be violence. Yet, the thoughts of what might happen in the not-so-distant future might be turning many voters to more radical parties than they might have considered previously.

In District 1, the PNC has seen some gains, but not many, and there are few who sympathize with either the Blueshirts or the Blackshirts. District 4, on the other hand, sports an impressively radical group, as Mikaela Latour runs for mayor as the head of the Federation of Panemanian Syndicalists (FPS) Party. Her major rival is the PNC candidate who is running just slightly ahead in the polls.

District 7 has been the most turbulent of all districts with elections this year, with five different candidates running, a conservative party candidate, a liberal party candidate, a PNC candidate, an FPS candidate, and – as of only a few weeks ago – a Blackshirt candidate. That Blackshirt candidate is none other than Ivan Barnett, a former victor of the Hunger Games, famous for employing a statistical approach to give himself an advantage.

District 10 looks likely to end up in the hands of the conservative party, though there are many Blackshirt sympathizers in the district. Those Blackshirts are held in place by the Peacekeeper force.

However, things might be looking up for PNC candidates, as the former Head Peacekeeper, Howard Malterk – along with Senator Lyla Stryka and others – has endorsed all PNC candidates.

He said: "The PNC is our last hope at fighting off these dangerous ideologues in their colored shirts. It is imperative that we all support the PNC despite the party's opposition to the current Capitol regime. We may not have another chance to stop this. Things could be better, but they could be a hell of a lot worse too. We can't let that happen. Vote PNC."

With the sudden last-minute favor of Malterk, the PNC candidates may see better performances than otherwise expected.

Fascism in District 2!
Arsinius Pardons Dawson, Announces Formation of "National Salvation Junta"

This morning, the Dictator of District 2, Cato Arsinius, arrived at the prison to personally witness the release of the victor of the 107th Hunger Games, Cassie Dawson. Dawson spent months in solitary confinement, but now that the Blackshirts run District 2, she was easily released, along with a few other subversive in the same day, with Dawson and Vermeule Green by his side, Cato gave a speech to the population in the city square in which he proclaimed his government the "National Salvation Junta."

"Our enemies in the Capitol have stood upon our backs for too long!" He said. "They have proclaimed themselves our betters when nothing could be further from the truth. As Cassie noticed, the Capitolites are nothing more than freaks and the evil spawn of hell. The duty of leadership falls to District 2, and our Junta will answer the call!

"To that end, I have released and pardoned Cassie Dawson, and she will take up the new role of Minister of Intelligence. Her task will be to find those who still spew the filthy propaganda of the Capitol and arrest them, sending them back to the disgusting hole they crawled from! Should they resist, their actions will be met with violence.

"The friend to my right, meanwhile, will become the Minister of the Arts. He will facilitate the production of films, novels, paintings, architectural designs, and many other things, providing us with a brighter and more hopeful home in which to live. Aspiring artists, whatever their art might be, are encouraged to submit their works. The best will be chosen and their work will be subsidized.

"Let us not forget that we could live in a great nation if we could only make it so. Yet, our nation is suffering. It is our duty to build a great home and to cultivate a truly great nation!"

These words are, of course, concerning to us all. They signal a truly oppositional government. The President will need to decide a course of action to handle the behavior of the belligerent District 2. Hopefully, he makes a decision in the coming days.

Election Chaos!
District 4 Elects PNC Mayor, District 7 Elects NSJ Mayor and Riots Spread

Upon the conclusion of elections, the Conservative Party has retained two seats, those in Districts 1 and 10, while traditional parties have lost seats in Districts 4 and 7.

District 1 was a comfortable victory for the incumbent. He performed well during the debates, and persuaded voters throughout that he would again be the right choice for District 1, though there seemed to be little controversy amongst the candidates. Once again, District 1 has proved itself to be a bastion of political stability.

District 4 received a change of scenery. Though the race was tight between the Liberal Party incumbent and the PNC challenger, the seat ultimately changed hands. It is theorized that this followed as the result of Mikaela Latour's entrance into the race under the FPS banner. A few liberals may have voted for Latour, giving the PNC the open lane to claim victory.

Following its win, the PNC declared Mikaela Latour an enemy of the state and called for her immediate arrest. Latour promptly disappeared, though her whereabouts are currently unknown. It is noteworthy that another former victor, Alexandros Minades, disappeared along with her. Many wonder whether they fled the district to avoid prosecution for their dissent, and others suppose that an assassination was carried out in secret.

District 7, following the surprise victory of Ivan Barnett has fallen into complete turmoil. In the run up to the election, the contest could seemingly have gone in favor of any of the five parties. Earning twenty-three percent of the vote, Ivan Barnett, the surprise Blackshirt candidate came out the victor.

Loyalists took to the streets in anger along with syndicalists, leaving Barnett with a rapidly deteriorating political situation. Loyalists challenged the results of the election, claiming that local Blackshirts waited outside certain polls, threatening to assault anyone who didn't vote for Barnett. The new mayor has not answered these claims of fraud, focusing his attention on earning the loyalty of the local Peacekeepers, many of whom are disinclined to support an open NSJ sympathizer. For now, District 7 remains in complete chaos. There have been gunfights and fistfights in the streets, and the death toll is unknown as of this moment.

District 10 reelected its Conservative Party mayor, though some discontent has spread amongst the population. Contingents of Blackshirts and Blueshirts formed many weeks ago, though they did not impact election outcomes greatly. The incumbent still won by a decent margin.

Bloody Wednesday!
Capitol Loyalists Massacred in District 2, Attack Led by Intelligence Minister Dawson

Yesterday evening, at gunpoint, loyalists from District 2 lost their lives in a tragic shooting. It is known that the policy of Cato Arsinius has been to purge all loyalists from District 2, largely by boarding them up on trains and sending them to the Capitol. The mayor of District 2 arrived by train, as did a few others. However, the number of expected loyalists in District 2, so far, does not match the number of arriving refugees.

This, many think, means that the loyalists are being killed in large numbers. Last night, this genocidal policy just became a reality, as defenseless loyalists were murdered by Blackshirts.

Cassie Dawson, Junta Minister of Intelligence, personally gunned down three people, one of whom was an eleven-year-old child clutching at the cold hand of her dead mother. Thirty total were killed, though the exact number is not known.

Unfortunately, data on this story was lost. There is no video recording the deaths, though our most reliable District 2 journalist reported on the event personally. The conclusions can be trusted implicitly.

These actions are yet further proof of the evils perpetuated by Arsinius's Junta. President Silver hasn't yet acted on this front, as he is busy handling the riots in the east, but to us here in the Capitol, it is obvious that the Blackshirts pose the greater threat. They are in closer proximity to the Capitol itself, and their organization is vastly superior to that of the Blueshirts.

Once again, we call on President Silver to act. He needs only to send an elite force of Peacekeepers to rout the Blackshirts and to end this ridiculous government. The threat posed by the NSJ cannot be overstated. It is past time that this illegitimate government was removed from power and the heads of all the Blackshirts were placed on spikes.

Riots Intensify!
Syndicalist Blueshirts Begin New Attacks

Much to our horror, as the elections have gone by in Districts 1,4,7, and 10, the Blueshirts have not sat idly by. New attacks began all across Districts 8, 11, and 12, some of which seem to be spurred by the recent repression of syndicalism in District 4 following the victory of the PNC. Only last night, there were another ten deaths, and untold amounts of property damage.

President Silver addressed these resurgent attacks, saying, "If the Mayor in District 12 cannot handle these unruly peasants himself, then the duty will fall to the Capitol. I may, very soon, implement martial law in each of these eastern districts if the situation is not resolved."

While many in the eastern districts would surely welcome martial law as an alternative to the riots, the mayors of these districts might not appreciate such an action, as it would limit their own influence. The mayors would be reinstalled once the period of chaos was ended, but that could take an extended amount of time, eating away at the time before the next elections.

Districts 8 and 11 are due next year, while 12 is due in two, and voters are sure to retract their support for the incumbents based upon their poor treatment of these Blueshirts. If any of these mayors wishes to hold office again, they will surely be required to – at the very least – push the Blueshirts back.

As of now, District 12 in particular has become a full-on warzone. Battle lines have been erected, and the syndicalists are making gains in the south. The north of District 12 is entirely held by Blueshirts and reporting is nigh impossible there, as two journalists were already executed by LaBrie and his terrorists. It is unknown what level of suffering might exist there, but our hearts go out to those in the north of District 12 who still remain loyal.

Latour Lives!
Mikaela Latour and Alexandros Minades Welcomed to District 2 by Arsinius

Yesterday afternoon a shocking event occurred, as syndicalist leader Mikaela Latour was welcomed to District 2 by Cato Arsinius personally. Alexandros Minades arrived along with her, and the two District 4 citizens immediately entered a long period of talks with Arinius and his inner circle. Present were Minister of Intelligence Cassie Dawson and Minister of the Arts Vermeule Green.

A short period of the interview was recorded, but little of substance was said. The radicals mostly traded greetings and inquired of each other's health. When the cameras were shut off, however, it is likely that much was said. Our journalists have been purged from the district entirely, but we assume Latour requested that the Junta fund syndicalist uprisings in the eastern districts.

Arsinius has promoted himself as a revanchist and reactionary leader, so it remains to be seen whether he might ally himself with the syndicalists. Interestingly, there are some similarities with their policies, as Arsinius has brought unruly corporations in District 2 to heel by deposing their leaders and installing new figures who promote the welfare of the Junta over profits of the corporations. Syndicalists might view this policy favorably, though they might greatly dislike Arsinius's retention of hierarchical employer to employee relationships.

Yet, they might be more willing allies than their stark ideological divide might indicate. Both radical factions openly seek the abolition of the republic, and that may force them to work together against their own will. Though, we should note that we have only seen interactions between syndicalists and Blackshirts in District 7. These interactions have been mostly violent, but it is possible that – with a command from their individual leaders – these factions might agree to set aside their differences to work against the Capitol.

We should all be wary of such a possibility, for it could spell the end of the republic.

The New Army of District 2!
Arsinius Announces the Formation of the NSJ Army, Minades Made Supreme General

Recent reports suggest that large numbers of District 2's population have joined the new army. The number of people who actually have joined is unknown, but it is theorized to be as many as fifty percent of those aged eighteen to forty, with a number of middle-aged citizens joining as well. There are many photos which show the training process, and it seems to be quite rigorous.

The process for officers and "Junta Knights," as Arsinius referred to them in the speech where he announced the army's formation, is even tougher. Many of the former Blackshirts have become Knights and officers, while the general population is becoming even more nationalistic.

Alexandros Minades, a former citizen of District 4 and a former victor of the games was named by Arsinius as the Supreme General of the Army. His experience is highly valued amongst the Junta leadership, though we cannot tell you what this experience might be, as our sources on him – and on District 2 in general – are highly limited.

All these actions only indicate one possibility in the near future: war. If war is to break out between the Capitol and the NSJ, our people will need to be sufficiently trained, and, with the abolition of the Capitol army under the republic constitution, this may be challenging. President Silver and other members of the republican establishment must encourage a powerful spirit within the people which will equal that of the District 2 citizens. Our population must be ready to fight, because a Peacekeeper force which is trained to enforce the law will not be sufficient in a true war.

Yet, President Silver has not been seen in weeks, and his reluctance to handle the syndicalists in the east has led many to question his leadership. I myself am in this position. I have strongly supported the republic since I was born, but it is very obviously a decrepit structure, and Farrow Silver cannot fix it. He would rather spend his time hosting lavish parties and drinking fancy wines.

I cannot believe I am saying this after so readily decrying their rise, but: the PNC is our only hope now. They are the only ones who have the will to do what is necessary to fight back.

District 2 Threatens Violence!
Arsinius Vows Any Attempt to Carry Out Reapings in District 2 "Will be Met with Guns"

Hello my friends. I was not expecting this to happen, but this will be my last article. My position at the paper has been officially terminated, and I will not be returning. Furthermore, it is unlikely that any other paper will hire me. My reputation is permanently tainted now, following my support for the PNC, but a tainted reputation and unemployment are small prices to pay for doing the right thing.

I managed to coerce my editor into allowing me one final article in which I could wish you all a fond farewell, but I would be remiss if I did not also mention the continually growing threat in District 2. It is the greatest threat we face here in the Capitol. The syndicalists may pose a threat to those in the eastern districts, and the loyalists there should be protected. Frankly though, our own well-being must be placed first, and District 2 is right at our border threatening open war.

Just yesterday, in fact, as Reaping Day approaches, Cato Arsinius again announced his intention to face the Capitol directly in an armed conflict. With thousands of cheering onlookers ready to fight and die for him, the sound must have been deafening yet terrifying. They will end our world if we do not act.

Arsinius said, "That solemn day on which so many lives have been lost pointlessly approaches. Reaping Day is a sad affair, and one that most if not all of us once regarded as a triumphant one. We watched as sons and daughters volunteered themselves to be slaughtered, and when only roughly ten percent of them returned, we cheered.

"This celebration of heroism is not wrong, but we were wrong to see participation in the Hunger Games as heroic. The Games are not heroic, nor are they a true test of martial prowess. They are a consumer trap, a mere reality TV show where likable contestants win and powerful and dangerous ones lose. Our continual participation in these Games is a black mark on our district's history, as we championed slave morality as opposed to master morality. We didn't seek our own path. We allowed ourselves to be led.

"From this day forth, that shall be no longer. We will not send another brave son or daughter to die in a game show. No, our sons and daughters will fight for our homeland! They will be true heroes, not entertainment for oligarchs! Thus, if and when the Capitol's Peacekeepers arrive to take our sons and daughters away from us, we will meet them with guns! They will find just how powerful the citizens of District 2 truly are when we stand as one!"

Needless to say, a chorus of loud cheers and two-fingered salutes ripped through the crowd.

These people cannot be reasoned with. When they come – and they will – we have no hope of defeating them under the current leadership. My final remark: those who hesitate when it comes to war, always lose. Our action must be swift and decisive, and, for our sake, it must come soon.

Okay! There is our introduction!

I am extremely excited to begin this journey, and I hope that many more people will participate than did in the previous installment. Let it be known right now that this story will be expressly political and ideological. I believe myself to be sufficiently knowledgeable to represent these different factions accurately and charitably. If you are looking for simple a "rich guys evil, poor guys good" revolutionary fantasy, this is not the story for you. You might have many problems with my portrayal of the anti-Capitol factions. You might say: "But they're fascists!" or "But they're communists!" So, please, to everyone reading, try to work with me here. Read the story and enjoy it, and if your own ideological alignment prevents you from enjoying the story, I cannot help you, and I will not be changing any part of the story to suit your needs.

Anyway, I'm really trying not to come across as rude here, but I really don't want this to stir up too much controversy or anything. I promise you now, this will be among the best SYOTs you have ever read. Just give me a chance to prove that to you.

The submission form will be on my profile, as will be a short note on the various requirements associated with submitting. There is also a link to the blog page which has some much needed background information, and – for those of you who did not read Vicarious – a complete summary of the first story in this verse. So, you don't have to read a whole 250k words if you don't want to.

I hope to see many submissions! I can't wait to continue writing this!

-Lars