What's happening in Takurua?

In the past few weeks, political analysts have expressed confusion at traffic reports coming in from the Sirius Corporation terraforming base Foothold Station in the backwater system of Takurua, home to Utopia's much-publicised deep space commune. Reports indicate that the number of Utopia dissidents being removed from the system for processing far exceeds the 100,000 Sirius Corp terraforming personnel currently stationed at Foothold. We caught up with Utopia futurologist and project lead Dr Saeed McNamara at Foothold Station for comment.

"There's nothing unusual about it." he told our reporter, "We help thousands of Utopia citizens make the pilgrimage here every week so they can experience the unique qualities of extreme isolation, much like the monasteries of the ancient past. We also put them through tests to test their suitability for a special self-improvement initiative we're developing. We're looking for the best and brightest, so most are simply reassigned after a couple of weeks of meditation and testing."

"I don't like the term 'dissident'", he added "It implies they're good for nothing, when really there's a special place for everyone in Utopia, and we don't give up until we've found the place where everyone can flourish."

Dr McNamara declined to comment on the nature of the "self-improvement" program, stating only that if successful, it would be a huge step forward for all mankind.

Commander Jendrassik

Q1 Eridani Dispatch | Interstellar Press

Published in Takurua.

Unscheduled Stops and Deleted Records

Serf Altmann, former junior engineer aboard the Imperial Freedom, says she's not surprised by the recent statement from Senator Patreus' Office, having come forwards with some extraordinary claims.

"I was serving aboard in November last year when the Senator was making a tour of the systems he patronises, when we made an unscheduled stop at Topaz. The reason given was repairs needed to the reactor core, but I'm telling you I looked it over half a dozen times and there was nothing wrong with it. We never got any repair crews sent over from the station either! The Senator debarked on the planet and didn't come back till a week later. When we got back to Eotienses I did some digging in the records to see if I could find out what the problem was... but there was no mention of our ever having stopped at Topaz."

When asked why records of such an event might have been deleted as she claims, Serf Altmann added: "Well... I don't rightly know, but I was on the docking bay crew when his Courier returned and I could swear the Senator had a ring on his finger when he got back... although I only caught a glimpse from a distance."

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Star Express | Interstellar Press

Forgotten Corners of the Galaxy - Aditi

Some 200 ly south of inhabited space lies the star system of Aditi, another of the Empire’s far-flung colonies. Some 15 million people are resident in the system, under the auspices of the Aditi Empire League.

With four metal-rich worlds and an almost pristine metal rich ring in-system, Aditi attracts plenty of enterprising miners looking to make their fortunes, and the large spacedock of SJML Central orbiting Morrow Peek caters to any refinery needs.

The terraformed planet of Peylow provides on the ground living, and has several interesting features. Days are a short 14.4 hours long, although one year is equivalent to roughly 6.75 Earth years. With oxygen content of 3.7% you might expect to be left breathless, but this is magnified by the 5.23 atmospheres of surface pressure. With water vapour making up 0.3%, and an average temperature of 46°C, Peylow is hot and humid. Settlements avoid the equator and cluster around the more temperate regions of the planet, with a dominant agricultural economy that is service by the PEW-1901 station in orbit.

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Sentient Life | Interstellar Press

Remembering the Eravate Rebellion of 3298

October 5th will mark the third anniversary of the Eravate Rebellion, the bloodiest conflict in the system’s history. 

The two-week-long standoff began when insurgent forces, financed by rival interests to the Eravate Network corporation, seized Ackerman Market and positioned an improvised orbital weapon - a small asteroid - over Chantilly, a city on the surface of Eravate Five. 

The insurgents demanded the resignation of Eravate Network’s Board of Directors and for the Federal Security Service to relinquish control of Cleve Hub and Russell Ring.

Negotiations were conducted, but ultimately failed when the insurgency’s leader, Ramone Osalla, executed the Federal negotiator in cold blood just before giving the order to destroy Chantilly.

A counter-assault on Ackerman Market soon followed, with the Federal Navy successfully driving Osalla’s forces from the station, but at the cost of many innocent lives. 

Memorials will be held throughout the month in remembrance of those lost in the conflict.

Commander Driggers

Regulus Observer | Interstellar Press

Published in Eravate.

Sidewinder Trust CFO arrested

After months of investigation, Interstellar Criminal Police Organization agents today arrested Anthony Ergot, CFO of Faulcon DeLacy's non profit "Sidewinder Trust".

A popular non-profit organization that seeks to provide affordable frameshift-capable starships to small business owners, the Sidewinder Trust has been crucial to many a pilot's career. The trust provides microcredits to Pilot Federation Members that are automatically repaid. Pilots would often not even notice they paid interest.

Sources close to Alliance Commissioner for Competition Graeme Argent claim that Mr. Ergot siphoned a substantial amount of money via the automatic interest deduction process that is part of every Sidewinder ship computer. With data migrating to other ships, these deductions continued long after the credit would have been repaid.

It is also possible that some pilots may not have paid any interest at all, with or without their knowledge. A possible distortion of competition is still under investigation by Mr. Argent's office.

According to recent polls, Faulcon-DeLacy remains one of the most popular shipbuilders for entry-level to high-end space craft. Critics point out that the Sidewinder Trust likely contributed significantly to their brand recognition.

Thomas Grantham-Solo

Jameson Memorial Review | Interstellar Press

Corruption investigation locks down Federal Congress

The Federal Congress has been placed under lockdown due to an ongoing investigation into corruption allegations stemming from the misappropriation of funds from government subsidies.

In a press briefing, House Speaker Anthony Squire revealed that several Congressmen had been implicated in a scheme to funnel government endowments into a private hedge fund. Squire refused to give the names of the representatives involved, but assured the public that the government will continue to function for the duration of the investigation.

“Congress will continue to serve the people of the Federation, even as we root out the corruption in these hallowed halls,” said Squire.

The Federal Security Service has stated that it has imposed travel restrictions on members of Congress, including staffers and lobbyists, until it concludes its investigations.

The lockdown comes in the midst of heated debate over Federal Navy acquisitions, tax breaks to certain consumer goods and combat bond compensation reform.

Commander Sitoutumaton

Regulus Observer | Interstellar Press

Public Opinion on Imperial Succession Debate

Whilst the Senate continues to debate the issue of succession to the Imperial throne, the Imperial public too have taken a great interest in the candidates. Though they have no direct say in deciding the next Emperor, Imperial citizens are vocal in extolling the merits of the various contenders.

Carpe Diem, the Empire’s biggest opinion pollster, this past week conducted a survey of a random sample of the populace. Results suggested that the two princesses are leading the race, revealing a noticeable although not definitive age gap in support, with the younger generation more willing to consider Princess Aisling Duval’s reformist policies favourably. In addition, Senator Patreus has seen an increase in support as public approval responds to his swift action against terrorist group Emperor’s Dawn, but Senator Torval and Chancellor Blaine also remain in the running, enjoying particular popularity amongst their system residents.

Sothar Vithu, 151, Achenar’s oldest resident and former Senator of Avalon, said: “I’ll be seeing in my third Emperor when the month is up. Whoever it is, they’ll need to adapt to the demands of a changing Empire, and be as sharp a strategist as I ever saw in order to keep the Empire prosperous and strong.” When asked if he had any pearls of wisdom for the candidates, he added: “Yes. There’s only two real contenders in this race: the one people feel they’re supposed to support, and the one they want to support. You must choose which one you will be.”

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Liaedin Chronicle | Interstellar Press

Forgotten Corners of the Galaxy - Fehu

300 ly south of inhabited space is the remote Imperial star system of Fehu, governed by the Fehu Citizens of Tradition. The star system is home to several big name media corporations including DK and Son Holographics, but also attracts exobiologists to two of the gas giants; one supporting ammonia-based life, the other water-based life.

The terraformed planet of Likopo is home to most of the system’s 3 million inhabitants, with only 8.7% oxygen but over double the atmospheres ensuring a human-breathable environment. Days are over twice as long, but years are five and a half weeks shorter. The planet enjoys a rather warm average temperature of 30°C, and tourists are advised to take necessary precautions to avoid heat stroke, especially around the equatorial regions.

Frigschneck’s Resort station plays host to the comings and goings of tourists, but the station’s economy largely operates in concert with the agriculture of the planet below, processing and transporting foodstuffs to other star systems. Thompson-Keen Asylum, set up in orbit of the rocky moon of Doolhof, runs an efficient refinery operation to process the ores extracted by freelance miners, most of whom work on the metal-rich Fehu 1 and 2.

With a growing economy and populace, Fehu is proving a popular location for Imperial companies to relocate and invest.

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Sentient Life | Interstellar Press

Federation Defense Contractor Allegedly Supplying Kumo Crew

Phantom Black, a hacker-activist group, has released documents that allegedly implicates a Federation-aligned, government-subsidized defense contractor in providing material support to the Kumo Crew.

The group released the financial records of Arborgate Logistics, a corporation well-known for its involvement in supplying weapons, vehicles, and other military hardware to various system defense fleets and private security firms.

The records released by Phantom Black show that Arborgate used funds from government subsidies to purchase surplus ships, components, weapons, ammunition and armor without a clear reason given for the purchases. These supplies were later transferred to numerous systems in the Pegasi sector, many of which fall under the direct control of the Kumo Crew.

Requests for comment by the press were ignored by Arborgate, but a spokesperson for the the Federal Security Service has said that they are in the process of conducting an internal investigation into the matter.

Commander Driggers

Regulus Observer | Interstellar Press

The White Templars resisting Archon Delaine

A group known as the White Templars have reportedly been assisting the resistance forces in OR Delphini, a system Archon Delaine has attempted to expand his influence into.

“Operation Tsunami was mobilized to answer the request of local government and law enforcement in OR Delphini, and consisted of seven wings working in a coordinated effort to shut down Kumo Crew activity in the system,” a White Templar spokesperson said, refusing to give his name. “We suffered no losses during the operation and faced little resistance.”

While it is unclear what the exact number of losses were for the Kumo Crew forces, the Templars believe they delivered a heavy blow to the pirate band.

“This demonstrates that when innocent groups call out for help to resist oppression, help will come. Let us hope this war soon comes to an end, so peace and prosperity can yet again return to these systems.”

Commander Pierre916 

Liaedin Chronicle | Interstellar Press

Eotienses Citizens Petition Universal Cartographics

This morning the citizens of Eotienses presented a petition, which has for the past ten days been gaining in support and popularity in the star system, to Cynthia Sideris, chairwoman of Universal Cartographics, and to the Office of Imperial Records. The petition requests that the twinned planets of Eotienses A 3 and A 4 – the former the system’s only habitable world, the latter in the process of ongoing terraforming – be renamed “Opal” and “Lazuli” respectively.

One signatory, who accompanied the presentation of the petition, stated: “Universal Cartographics may have the planets listed as Eotienses A 3 and A 4, but locals have known them as Opal and Lazuli for decades. It was common even in my grandparents’ day. It is our request that Universal Cartographics look favourably on our petition and formalise the native appellations into the official records.”

Chairwoman Sideris responded that the petition would be looked at in due course and given all consideration.

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Sentient Life | Interstellar Press

The Code relaunches "Operation Robin Hood"

The piracy organization known as “The Code” launched another rendition of "Operation Robin Hood" in the Eravate region yesterday. The operation has attracted Galactic attention, drawing bounty hunters in pursuit of the pirates’ bounties.

CMDR DigitalMandalorian the Quartermaster of The Code provided this statement:

"Rumor is that older and wealthier members of the Pilot's Federation have taken an interest in taking their A-Class Anacondas, Pythons, and luxury-liner Orcas to the LHS 3447 region, to taunt the newer and poorer members. We decided to make a visit to the parts of the galaxy where these fat-cats make their credits and we... humbled them. We will distribute 100% of our piracy income in the form of Gold, Palladium, Imperial Slaves, Rare Goods, and other highly sought after commodities to the new members of the Pilot's Federation over the next few days. New pilots, it may be your lucky day. Just make sure you have cargo space." 

To judge the merits of the operation we spoke to Alana Patel, a worker aboard Russell Ring, an Orbis Starport located in Eravate.

"Operation Robin Hood? Yeah, I've heard of it. I heard a loud bang while taking inventory yesterday; apparently a newer pilot was having trouble docking his Sidewinder and accidentally released all the cargo from his ship. Two tons of stolen Palladium came crashing down on landing pad 19. These newer pilots may be richer but that won't make them any smarter."

Commander DigitalMandalorian

The Privateer | Interstellar Press<

Published in Eravate. 

Voting for a Change in Gyvatiges

Citizens of Gyvatiges are called to the ballots this week to decide the fate of the system. The communistic Gyvatiges Citizen Party is currently in charge, but are they ready to share power with Federation-aligned Union of Gyvatiges Green Party?

Green Party leader Sef Jillson’s political ad sends a clear message at Patsayev Enterprise : "The Citizen Party has done well in the past, but today our efforts alone aren’t enough to secure our homes. That’s why we should look towards the Federation.”

The Citizen Party’s leader Logan Stewart remains confident despite polls predicting his party's defeat in the elections: “Gyvatiges is safe as long as it stays out of galactic politics. We’ll see what the voters think of sharing our wealth with the Federation if Jillson gets his term in office.”

The barrel of a gun is a method used all too often across the galaxy to enact change in who controls a system's stations, but not in Gyvatiges. The future might be uncertain here, but at least it comes from the ballot box.

Commander Sitoutumaton

Regulus Observer | Interstellar Press

Published in Gyvatiges

Forgotten Corners of the Galaxy - LTT 9846

Some 50 ly distant from the nearest inhabited system the LTT 9846 Boys criminal gang rule over a population of 65000 with an iron fist. Originally the site of a crashed prison transport vessel some 450 years ago, hence the name of the station; Geoffrey’s Crash, the 300 original inhabitants consisted of prisoners, guards, and the ship’s crew, who managed to survive long enough to establish a small settlement and the rights to the system’s mineral wealth. From the profits of mining the burgeoning community was able to purchase the technology to terraform the first planet.

Magna, as the planet was named, has a growing industrial economy, supported by the space station. Days are 19.2 hours long and years just under twice that of an Earth year. Surface temperature is a warm 30°C, with 4.6% oxygen but 5.45 atmospheres, making the percentage of oxygen feel much higher.

Other factions have gained a small foothold over the centuries, with a local corporation, feudal system, and co-operative attempting to gain control respectively, but the criminal gang remains strong, partly through historic tradition channelling new generations into the gang family, but partly due to the fact that slavery is a widespread practise here. It is estimated that about two thirds of the population, just over 40000 people, are in chains, their unpaid labour fuelling the LTT 9846 Boys’ attempt to expand their influence into the fringes of the inhabited cluster.

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Sentient Life | Interstellar Press

Imperial Commanders Call for Civil Discussion during Succession Debate

As the month of debate in the Senate regarding the Imperial succession continues, the Imperial citizenry have been discussing the merits of the various candidates and speculating on who will ascend the marble steps. For the most part these discussions have been friendly, and it is widely acknowledged that this month represents a window of opportunity for all candidates and their supporters to make their case. However, in certain parts trouble has flared up as discussions become heated.

Imperial commanders are calling on their fellows to keep the conversation civil, with Cmdr Corrigendum pledged to Arissa Lavigny stating: "If our future Emperor benevolently strives to protect and provide for all Imperial citizens, be they the lowliest Imperial Slave or the most opulently arrayed Patron, I couldn't care less what his or her background is. Should the future Emperor preside over the people in this manner, honoring the founding principles of the Empire, our prosperous continuance will be assured."

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar pledged to Denton Patreus added: "Once it's done, it's done. Now is the chance for all candidates and their supporters to freely and openly promote their cause, without opprobrium for doing so. I call on my fellows not to let the debate descend into petty squabbling."

The Senate discussion will end in just under three weeks time.

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Liaedin Chronicle | Interstellar Press

Federal Forces Hold the Line at Nurundere

Supporters of President Zachary Hudson declared victory in Nurundere this week, weathering stiff opposition from resistance forces. The system had been the focus of an Empire-backed counteroffensive - codenamed Operation Janus - which failed to prevent Federation loyalists from taking the system.

Citizens of Gubarev Port were observed chanting pro-Hudson slogans & waving Federation flags in the station docking bay, celebrating the return of pilots from the combat zones as hostilities closed.

The victory came hot on the heels of news that Hudson-pledged systems targeted by Operation Janus had also successfully repelled attacks.

“Don’t get cocky,” Jack Kerner, a Federation privateer, said to a group of his fellow pilots, “We won a decisive victory here today, but don’t assume for a split-second that it’s always going to be like this.”

Commander Driggers

Times of Mars | Interstellar Press

Senate Report Reveals Patronage Gains

A Senate report tracking political trends shows marked swings towards patronage governments throughout Empire space.

The systems of Vodyanes & HIP 20524 highlight the report's key finding – corporations and dictatorships are being swept away by imperial assemblies and societies - replacing boardroom decisionmaking and the diktat of juntas with codes of obligation and mutual respect.

Why many citizens are returning to patron-client relationships is unclear, although the report offers some possible explanations: traditionalism may offer comfort following Hengist Duval's assassination, or escape from anxieties brought on by the Pegasi Pirate War.

Somewhat outlandishly, the report suggests that organised groups of pilots may be responsible for covertly supporting some governments on behalf of certain unnamed powerful individuals.

When approached, a spokesperson for the Chapterhouse of Inquisition, an advocacy group for patrons and feudal lords based in Kamadhenu, was keen to point out the virtues of traditional governance, but declined to comment on the particulars of the Senate report.

Commander Edgar Starwalker

Capitol Herald | Interstellar Press

Forgotten Corners of the Galaxy: Quince

The orange giant star Quince is reaching the end of its lifespan, and lies some 500 ly north of inhabited space on the galactic disc. Nevertheless, the nascent Empire created a far-flung colony here some 900 years ago, which today supports a thriving populace of approximately 10 million people under the Quince Citizens of Tradition government.

Four of the system’s six planets are abundant in metal reserves, and a station was historically established around the richest of them all, Kosmala Rewards. In modern times Millerport has become a surprising agricultural economy, with large sections of the station turned over to hydroponics, supporting a large resident population.

The two other planets are an ammonia-based water world, and a terraformed Earth-like given the appellation New America. New America’s year is just over 12.5 Earth years in length, with each day lasting roughly 26.4 hours. Oxygen is low at 8.7%, but with a surface pressure of 2.3 human inhabitants are safe from the dangers of hypoxia. With negligible carbon dioxide, but a thriving eco-system, New America is a pilgrimage site for exo-biologists, with much of the planet’s flora subsisting off glucose-rich nutrients, and a huge variety of native fauna to study. Average temperatures are a balmy 26°C, with high humidity creating a tropical ecosystem across much of the planet, and the star system is known for its famed exports of Quince Sweetfruit and other exotic foods. Many tourists visit New America for the breath-taking vistas, or for the challenge of catching a glimpse of the dangerous wildlife, taking transports from Jeffries High station.

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Sentient Life | Interstellar Press

Published in Quince.

Federal Navy Pilots Inspect New Ships

Core Dynamics recently hosted a number of Federal Navy pilots at Navy Central in Eta Cassiopeiae, giving them an opportunity to inspect the company's newest products, the Federal Gunship and Assault Ship, before they are formally deployed.

Pilots were able to try out the ships in purpose-built simulators and take part in a Q&A session with Core Dynamics representatives. Many pilots seemed to be impressed with the vessels and their potential uses.

“The Assault Ship seems like a great balance between speed, manoeuvrability and firepower,” Ensign Isaiah Evanson said. “We’ve been asking for something like this for a long, long time.”

“The Gunship is a tank, for sure. It’s a very adaptable weapons platform. With some smart modifications to suit the pilot’s needs, I’m confident it will be one of the hardiest ships on the market. I’m excited to see what we can do with them.”

Commander Driggers

Jameson Memorial Review | Interstellar Press

Forgotten Corners of the Galaxy - Exphiay

Canopus’ neighbour Exphiay is the subject of our next article. The G type star supports several planets including metal rich worlds, a ringed Y-type dwarf star, two water worlds, and a terraformed planet where the majority of the system’s inhabitants make their home. Life proceeds at a slower pace here, with one year on Discovery taking just over two Earth years, and days 32 hours in length. With an oxygen percentage of 12.8%, visitors to Discovery are warned about the dangers of hypoxia, something which the permanent residents are acclimatised to. Average temperatures are around 1°C so tourists are advised to wrap up in suitable environmental clothing, especially if they plan on venturing outside the equatorial regions.

The system benefits from two large spaceports; Worlidge Hub, in orbit around Discovery itself, and James K Winston, orbiting its rocky moon of Rakhiot. Both support only a skeleton staff, just enough to keep the stations operational. James K Winston runs a refinery operation that processes the ores extracted in nearby Canopus, whilst Worlidge Hub has a service economy to cater to the small numbers of tourists that travel out this far. Most of both stations’ workforces are made up of slaves, controlled as they are by the Canopus Crimson Dragons criminal gang.

Whilst the colony was founded by the substantial funds of Gallant Investment Brokers, criminals have found a safe haven here distant from the rest of inhabited space, with the freedom to operate unimpeded for many years. In recent times they have seen challenges from rivals the Exphiay Crimson Hand Gang, but the Federation Exphiay for Equality party has moved in during the past few months and has rapidly gained in support, citing its goal to make both Exphiay and Canopus; “safe and profitable places to make a living again”.

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Sentient Life | Interstellar Press

The Dark Side Of The Empire

An Imperial law enforcement survey from the last seven days has revealed over 240,000 alleged criminals were summarily executed by Commanders loyal to the Empire. These are executions without a trial, highlighting a side of the Imperium which Senators are often reluctant to discuss.

The largest culprits are the supporters of Arissa Lavigny Duval, and the implementation of their 'crime sweeps' is made even more disturbing when one considers they are made outside Duval's sphere of political influence. The heavy handed approach threatens to split Lavigny and Aisling supporters; the latter holding more liberal views than many of their counterparts. 

Although other political leaders, such as President Hudson in the Federation, also offer a more forceful approach to those with opposing views, Lavigny’s struggle is particularly pronounced due to the current concern of overloading prison colonies. Citizens and Senators argue that before being filled with P.O.W’s they should first be filled with lesser criminals that otherwise face the end of their short lives. 

Commander Mikalus

Liaedin Chronicle | Interstellar Press

Forgotten Corners of the Galaxy - Canopus

Some 100 ly from the nearest inhabited systems – excluding its neighbour Exphiay – the star system of Canopus is one of humanity’s furthest flung colonies. Here two tiny rocky planets orbit the blue-white supergiant. Neither Maxwell’s World nor Rance’s Wreck support human habitation, and both planets lack the metal abundance that would make them an attractive prospect for a mining outpost. Nevertheless, hardy pioneers have chosen to make their future here on the frontier.

Rangarajan’s Base is a large spaceport for such a low population, supporting only 900 enterprising individuals who make it their home. The station’s economy is largely driven by extraction of the scarce ores on Rance’s Wreck and the inhabitants eke out a mainly subsistence living.

Whilst the system is currently controlled by the Canopus Crimson Dragons, the criminal gang has been losing its grip in the past weeks as Federation democrats Exphiay for Equality seem committed to bring law and order to Canopus. EfE party leader Ma Bai-tian stated; “The system is materially unpromising, but it’s a well-known name and with commercial investment could become a tourist destination for those wishing to see the supergiant. We hope in future to produce unique merchandise to attract more visitors to Canopus.”

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Sentient Life | Interstellar Press

Published in Canopus.

Theory of Forms

Although medical technology in 3301 has greatly prolonged human lifespans, true immortality still eludes scientists.

However, Sim Archive curators on Antal have begun showing the galaxy how Utopians view the subject in a series of recent seminars. Curator Gol Deleuze explained the archives role:

"Utopian transcendental technology exists to preserve the thoughts and memories of an individual that would otherwise be lost when they die. Stored in the Sim Archive, neural patterns drive generated simulacrum that allow us direct access to our predecessor’s lives and teachings."

Although seen by many as benign, some academics have voiced concern over the role of the technology. Noted theorist Lev Baudrillard writing for the Zandu Science Journal remarked "How can we trust this perversion of reality is not distorted to fit Utopian doctrine?"

In a later statement, Deleuze responded to the criticism: "To tamper with the stored information is to desecrate the memories of the individual they came from. We preserve, nothing more."

Commander Gan

Sentient Life | Interstellar Press

Published in Polevnic, Antal and Narri.

Imperial Slave Regulations Proposed

Following the recent audit of the Imperial Slave Association, the Imperial Senate Audit Committee has recommended further regulations governing the treatment and transportation of Imperial Slaves.

The proposed regulations center on improved vetting of commanders permitted to transport Imperial Slaves. The rank of Master in the Imperial Navy has been suggested as a minimum requirement for the task. Additionally, budget will be earmarked for the search and recovery of Imperial Slaves transported and sold outside of the Imperium.

Svetlana Zhukov, chairwoman of the ISA, publicly supported the proposed regulations:

“It is our duty to ensure Imperial citizens serving terms as Imperial Slaves remain within the borders of the Empire until their debts are paid and they are returned to full citizenship. It is our hope that these new regulations will ensure the rights of Imperial Slaves are not trampled upon by those who are unscrupulous enough to sell our people for quick credits."

Political commentators have expressed doubts that the proposed regulations will be approved, but many remain hopeful.

Commander Corrigendum

Capitol Herald | Interstellar Press

Published on GalNet News.

Formalization of Peace: Utopia and the Empire

Amicable relations have always prevailed between the Empire and the burgeoning commune of Utopia. During the past week, ambassadors representing the interests of Utopia and the Empire met to discuss the formalization of peaceful relations between the two powers. Their negotiations proved fruitful.

In addition to formalized peace and neutrality, the agreement added provisions for protected trade routes through Imperial and Utopian territory. Financial markets have reacted favorably to this news in anticipation of profits to be generated from increased trade between the two powers.

Utopian ambassador Ben Ryder extended an invitation to the Empire: “We wish to commemorate this agreement by inviting all Imperial citizens to visit Utopia's great Sim-Archive to take part in what we hold most dear. We look forward to a new age of peace and prosperity."

Commander Corrigendum

Capitol Herald | Interstellar Press

Celebrating Utopia

Yesterday Utopia issued invitations to all major Powers inviting commanders to come and join the party at Tanner Settlement in Polevnic. Utopia is celebrating a milestone of pilots pledged and the festivities are set to go on for the next couple of days, to which independent and pledged commanders from all backgrounds are welcome to attend.

Last night over Tanner Settlement, Utopians were joined by a multitude of visitors including Cmdr Mikalus of the Kumo Crew, Cmdr Driggers pledged to Zachary Hudson, Cmdr Stateira “Starcloak” Eleshenar from Denton Patreus, and a wing contingent pledged to Aisling Duval. The celebrations went on long into the night with decorative chaff deployed outside the spaceport entrance and friendly combat contests. An exchange of gifts also took place as Utopian commanders handed out canisters of Utopian publicity and visitors swapped canisters of silver, fish, and even Centauri Mega Gin.

The celebrations were deemed a great success by all involved, with several guests committing to attend future invitations from Utopia and pilots from opposing backgrounds seen to be setting aside their differences and mingling in a friendly manner. All in all it is widely agreed that the festivities are a triumph for Utopia and their goal of one day uniting humanity in peace.

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar and Cmdr Driggers

Sentient Life | Interstellar Press

Karsuki Locusts Not So Sweet

Karsuki Krunchies has issued a health warning today after fears that a recent batch of their famous Karsuki locusts, the popular snack made sweet by native fungal parasites, may have been contaminated.

Guests of the Queen of Treima celebrating the anniversary of her coronation day fell suddenly and violently ill. It is understood that a shipment of Karsuki locusts had been especially ordered as finger food at the buffet for the day’s entertainments. In a press statement Triema’s first minister said: “The Queen is unharmed and did not partake of the locusts. Our security forces are currently investigating the possibility that this was an attempt on the Queen's life through introduction of a toxic substance.”

Karsuki Krunchies officials have responded to accusations from the monarch’s first minister that the batch was in fact deliberately tampered with: “This is all just a misunderstanding. Our quality control and food standard safety procedures are being examined. We are taking every effort to get to the bottom of this and ensure it never happens again.”

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Sentient Life | Interstellar Press

Hutton Orbital Becomes Pilot Hotspot

Hutton Orbital has welcomed a sharp increase in visitors over the past week as the announcement of BlipMagnet’s Hutton mug souvenir went viral across Galnet. This simple but ingenious marketing ploy has caught the attention of pilots across inhabited space, prompting many to choose now to make the infamous pilgrimage.

The local economy has surged as a result of the new boost to tourism, and the 50,000 or so residents on the outpost have enjoyed a fresh injection of credits into their pockets as pilots seek out amenities and other locally produced goods to commemorate their trip. For those seeking an expensive gift for friends and family, Centauri Mega Gin has provided the ideal beverage to put the Hutton mug to use, although local authorities have issued a warning to pilots about drinking and flying.

It is expected that the surge of visitors will begin to decline once viral publicity dies down, but BlipMagnet intend to use recent profits to further fuel tourism, suggesting in a press release today that depending on the success of the Hutton mug they may be willing to consider branching out into further lines of merchandise, including branded clothing.

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Zaonce Market Circular | Interstellar Press

Published in Alpha Centauri

The Empire's New Power Couple?

In recent weeks the eagle eyes of Imperial high society have come up with new grist for the rumour mill. The Empire’s favourite power couple, Aisling Duval and Denton Patreus, have not been seen in public together since attending ‘A Dinner to Defeat Dementia’ in April. It is believed that the Princess’ leaked comments about the Senator recently cannot have improved matters, and that the association may even have ended some time ago.

But according to the latest gossip rags coming out of Achenar, Eotienses’ most eligible bachelor may already have found a new match. There has been increased amiability between the agents of Senator Patreus and Senator Arissa Lavigny-Duval, and closer ties between the factions in the shared purpose of a secure and stable Empire. Celebrity commentators have noted that the usual sparring matches between the pair in the Senate have been noticeably absent in the past two months, and postulated a possible connection.

“This is just a power-grab,” Said one member of the public: “First he tries it on with the Emperor’s granddaughter, now his daughter.”

Another citizen, who professed support for Senator Lavigny-Duval, stated: “He’s finally chosen the right princess. Arissa and Patreus have much more in common in age, experience, and temperament – and obviously her mother would approve. I hope it works out for them.”

Some scoff at the idea however: “Senators Lavigny-Duval and Patreus? What made up nonsense! She wouldn’t give him the time of day. I never heard anything so absurd in my life!”

Cmdr Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Star Express | Interstellar Press

Crop Harvesters Harvesting More Than Crops?

The Pegasi sector is enjoying the surge of an unlikely trading good. The humble Crop Harvester. Exports from Lusonda, 34 Pegasi and multiple other systems have surged, coinciding with a boom in the illegal black market sector.

The conjunction is not incidental. An undercover advocate discovered that the legitimate trade of crop harvesters is a mask for the illegitimate smuggling of narcotics, battle weapons and imperial slaves. The ruling power in the Pegasi area, the Kumo Crew, are themselves active supporters of this method.

This means demand for crop harvesters is likely to soar. The humble item which enables the provision of food for so many is a staple of the Kumo Crew. A sign that your average citizen isn't forgotten and that piracy is here to stay.

Commander Mikalus

The Privateer | Interstellar Press

Published in Lusonda.

The Price Of Peace

After fighting the Imperial war machine for months, the Kumo Crew are once again creating headlines with an apparent offer to Utopia for a non-aggression pact in return for weekly tribute.

Sources close to the Kumo Crew have stated they will leave Utopian systems alone ‘if they pay us the proper respect’. It is understood this offer stems from a meeting held between the two powers in earlier weeks.

However, this controversial gesture was received with skepticism from Utopian officials:

“Utopia does not appease pirates and we will not submit to tyranny and greed. We are always striving to promote galactic stability, but a lasting peace cannot be bought or sold”.

With the offer set to expire in one standard week, the galactic community now looks to Utopia for the result of any final agreement.

Commander Gan

Q1 Eridani Dispatch | Interstellar Press

Alliance Borders Under Pressure

Landsteiner Terminal in Marasing has found itself feeling the strain as numbers of people arriving at the spaceport unexpectedly quadrupled since the start of last cycle. Commercial accommodation has become booked to capacity with visitors, and many of the new arrivals, who cannot afford lodgings, have been crowding the station's communal spaces.

Station mayoress Jahaira Tembe stated: "These people are refugees from Wolf 1148, fleeing the latest advance of the Kumo Crew. Landsteiner just isn't prepared to take in these numbers. We've opened up the pilot pod berths to give them somewhere to sleep for now, but this is a temporary solution. We cannot sustain the supplies and resources to feed all these people for free for an extended period."

Marasing is just one of several Alliance border systems that have experienced such influxes. Local governments have petitioned the Council for a decision on whether to admit refugees fleeing Archon Delaine into the Alliance core worlds, or to mobilise the Alliance Defence Force in removing them to outside Alliance borders. Meanwhile humanitarian aid groups have begun collection programmes. Thus far, Prime Minister Mahon has not commented on the issue.

One refugee said: "We're pleading with the Alliance: don't send us back there. I had to abandon my home and my business. We've lost everything."

Commander Stateira "Starcloak" Eleshenar

Allied News Service | Interstellar Press

Memorial in the Heavens

Commander Sataris, a member of the East India Company, was recently honoured by an anonymous benefactor. In memoriam of his mother’s recent passing, rights were purchased from Universal Cartography to register a planet in her name.

Cynthia Sideris, Chairwoman of Universal Cartography, read this statement from the anonymous benefactor: “Commander Sataris has served with distinction, valour, and honour, in all his duties, regardless of the circumstances. In honour of his late mother, rights have been purchased to rechristen a world in the BD+26 2184 system as “Kathy McBrayer”. Kathy is an example to us all. Any mother capable of rearing a son like Sataris is well deserving of such a memorial."

Commander Sataris extended the following invitation: "I invite all members of the Pilots Federation to visit the memorial planet Kathy McBrayer in BD+26 2184.”

Chairwoman Sideris stated Universal Cartography will finalize the change to the planet’s name in the coming weeks.

Commander Corrigendum

Jameson Memorial Review | Interstellar Press

Published on GalNet News

Resistance Against Archon Delaine Expansion

Forces loyal to Arissa Lavigny-Duval answered the pleas for help of resistance fighters in Badjaransto and HIP 106072. These two systems are currently under siege by Archon Delaine’s Kumo Crew in a bid to expand the criminal lord’s activities. 

Dubbed Operation Kursk, an Imperial joint strike force was mobilised last weekend to aid the local resistance. Two independent pilot groups, the White Templars and the Imperial Inquisition, have been confirmed to participate in this operation. According to Imperial sources, the strike force met little resistance and inflicted important losses to the Kumo Crew forces. This action is hoped to assist the local resistance fighters to overcome their would-be oppressors. 

Once again, the war for the Pegasi sector is spilling over from Archon Delaine’s territory as Imperial crews battle to contain his expansion in the region.

Commander Pierre916

Liaedin Chronicle | Interstellar Press