85-1122

In a stunning statement today, before the Regina Senate Inquiry into Public Corruption, Mercer Black stated that he had planned the murder of Corina Ling-Raleigh under orders from Governor Collingwood. Black stated that he had met with Collingwood off Regina, before the Governor's official arrival onto planet. Black stated that Collingwood directed him to kill Acting Governor Ling-Raleigh, because of her blood link to the ruling Aledon House of Regina. Collingwood feared that Corina would be in a position to contest his planned appointment as Duke of Regina.

Black stated that he had set the fire at Corina's apartment, but could not bring himself to do a good job, because he was "personally fond of Corina" and hoped that she would survive the attempt. He described his personal relationship with Corina as "warm" and stated that he had thought of her as a partner in the business of governing Regina. However, he felt compelled to obey the direct orders of his new superior, Field Marshal Collingwood.

Black also went on to state that he believed that Corina later challenged him to a duel because she wanted to die "at the hand of a friend." He said that she knew that only her death could bring down Collingwood's plan, and she was willing to make that sacrifice so that more of Regina's citizens would not be hurt in the power struggle. Black stated that anyone who actually saw the duel, would know that he was an unwilling participant in what happened in

Black stated that he intends to resign his position as Director of Regina Security, in order to personally pursue Corina's goals of reform on Regina.

At the conclusion of this stunning statement, Director Black submitted as supporting evidence several tapes and a written document. The document was a letter of "Carte Blanche" which states that "By my hand, and for the good of Regina, the bearer of this document has done what has been done..." This document was signed by Field Marshal John FitzPatrick Collingwood.

Collingwood was heard to announce from his seat in the spectator's gallery, "this isn't over yet, Black! " before storming from the room.

Upon departing the building following his testimony, Director Black was seen speaking quietly with a number of the dazed Corinistas outside the building, who had been viewing the proceedings on a large vid-display screen. The Director's limousine then proceeded to the Formal Gardens at Aguilon Park where he was observed laying a small wreath among the voluminous pile of flowers at the site of the duel.