Teen Scene TV Segment - Election 2021

[Mairead Harker]

The camera panned in on a talk show stage where an Elven teenager stood in front of the camera. “Hello! I’m Emil Treesinger. Tonight, we’re discussing the Rhydin election and what impact the selection of the new Governor can have on the citizens. Our first guest is one sports fans might recognize. Please welcome the youngest title holder in the Duels of Swords and Magic and youth advocate, Maggie Harker.”

The studio audience applauded as Maggie and Emil greeted each other.

“As a former gubernatorial candidate, Maggie, what are your thoughts on the slate of candidates for the primary election?”

Maggie paused for a moment to gather her thoughts. “Let’s start with the list of names as published by the election committee: Jackson, Kira Adia, Karma Armstrong, Ebon Ilnaren, Peter the Spider, Sir Stabbington Roomba, and Alik Murphy.”

Applause followed the names, some getting wolf-whistles.

“I’ll start with this. If you want the cuteness and or mechanical factor to weigh heavily in your choice for the next Governor of Rhydin, go with Peter the Spider or Sir Stabbington Roomba. They’re so adorable! I can see one drawback for both of them, a possible language barrier with their constituents. If Olaf Von Trunk can get his ideas across, maybe Peter and Stabbington can as well.”

“The cute factor.” Emil grinned and the audience clapped.

“Alik Murphy, Jackson, and Kira Adia are relatively new in the public eye. Karma Armstrong and Ebon Ilnaren are, respectively, native born and longtime residents of the city.” Hearing shouts and various requests from the audience, Maggie waved. “For those asking for selfies with me or autographs, I’ll be out front after the show. For the person asking for a date, only if you understand that I’m fifteen and you run the risk of being interrogated by my family.”

Laughter and applause echoed through the studio. Emil hid a big grin behind his hand.

Maggie looked out into the audience. “Based on his beneficial activities in past terms of office and a bit of familial bias, Ebon Ilnaren has the best shot at this election. His past record speaks for itself. There is a list being circulated tonight with known biographical points and achievements of the candidates.”

“You mentioned a family connection with the former Governor, what is that?”

“He’s my uncle.” Maggie left it at that and Emil didn’t press further.

“What about the self-described peace, love, and party candidate?”

“Karma does enjoy and throw great parties. She also has a fabulous wardrobe.” Maggie waited for the cheering to die down. “Don’t fool yourself into believing that all she is is someone with a pretty face and carefree attitude. Having grown up in Rhydin, Karma has a very good sense of what it takes to survive in this city.”

“We’ll pause here for a commercial break.” After Emil spoke, the screen went to a Broot Root Beer commercial.

[Mairead Harker]

“And we’re back!” I’m Emil Treesinger and my guest tonight is Maggie Harker. If you’re just tuning in, we’ve been talking about the candidates for this year’s election. Maggie, there are three more on that list. What are your thoughts?”

“As I was saying, I think Ebon Ilnaren and Karma Armstrong will be two of the four going into the general election. Joining them, Kira Adia.”

“Why Ms. Adia over the men?”

Maggie cleared her throat after taking a drink of water. “It’s not about gender, Emil.” She straightened in her seat. “Kira is smart, she has good people skills, she’s a hard worker and, in the short time I have known her, she has extended the hand of friendship to many.”

Emil nodded and held up two fingers, two names left. “In the past, you’ve done interviews with candidates. Might you be doing that again?”

“That’s a good possibility. I might just have my list of questions ready for the debate.” Maggie’s lips twitched with amusement. “I’m hoping there will be a cage match with the candidates! Those are fun to watch!”

“Maybe we’ll see you calling one, Maggie. I’ll invite you for another time to discuss that.” Emil glanced down at the list and said, “Thoughts on Alik and Jackson?”

“Jackson is …”

Tara is Tara won’t work here! the old soul’s thoughts drifted through Maggie's mind.

“Jackson is still getting used to the place. He’s one of the many people that get dropped into Rhydin every year. He’s able to dedicate himself to whatever he chooses to do. I think he needs more time to adjust to living here and dealing with his fellow citizens. While I wouldn’t bet on him to win this year, I think if he gets his life in order and finds his normal, he’s got a good shot at being Governor in the future.”

"Maggie Harker, everyone. Our next guest is Lynn Meriton, here to talk about educational opportunities in the city."