[ensign edwards]

BREAKING NEWS
Charon Defense Fleet Hit, Earth Threatened
Charles Carmen - Earth News Network
4 April, 2160

ENN has just received that the Sol system defense fleet based out of Pluto's moon, Charon, has been struck by a large force of Romulan warbirds. Early reports indicate the Romulans approached under cover of cloak until they were detected by the system's countermeasures, at which point they abandoned all pretense of subtlety and commenced an all-out assault.

Starfleet tells us that the fleet is holding its own, but at least three Romulan ships--a warbird and two smaller vessels--were able to slip past them and are now on a direct course for Earth. The Charon defense fleet is attempting pursuit, but the other Romulan ships are holding them in the outer solar system. Earth's orbital defense platforms have been activated, and Prime Minister Samuels has ordered world-wide evacuations to designated safe areas and shelters.

The Verteron Array on Mars has been activated as a makeshift defense system, but Mars is currently approaching the far side of the sun, and the odds of it being able to hit the Romulans with any degree of accuracy are negligible.

Please consult your local news agencies for information on how to reach the designated safe areas in your region. Much of ENN's staff is joining the evacuation, but a few of us will stay on and continue broadcasting for as long as we are able. May fortunate smile upon all the people of Earth in the next few hours. Thank you.

This Dispatches from the Romulan War report was submitted by ensign edwards.