April 10, 1997, across Scotland.
The air carried a scent of rust and damp moss. Temporary voting booths were set up across the city square, countryside churches, and even mountain pasture cabins.
The St. Andrew's Flag with its blue background and white cross, and the Union Jack hung side by side, but the former was clearly newer and brighter, flapping fiercely in the brisk spring breeze, like a silent protest.
The referendum options were printed on light yellow ballots, simple but as weighty as a thousand pounds:
[Option A: Full independence, establishing the Scottish Republic.]
[Option B: Becoming the "Scottish Autonomous Kingdom," acknowledging the Queen of England as the titular head of state, with complete autonomy except in defense and diplomatic titular powers.]
[Option C: Maintain the status quo, as part of the United Kingdom.]
