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==Capitolo 1: Riposizionamento== | ==Capitolo 1: Riposizionamento== | ||
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''' | '''Clear Enough'''<br> | ||
''Blagoi Shulka, Ignis Correspondent, Novum News'' | |||
There we have it, folks, the Federation has voted to Reinforce Mímir’s defenses. No doubt the Union and Empire will be abrasive in their responses. I, for one, reckon this one was clear enough–but what do I know? There will always be the discontent, protesting some local government or corporate policy by trying to twist the Federation’s arm in the most childish of ways, the tantrum-like protest vote. Much good it’ll do anyone, pah. | |||
Tell you what, though, I cannot wait to see what Dr. Helena Barnhardt has to offer the Task Force. Her background in over a dozen UC research missions and history of diplomatic conduct should help offset the suspicion of the other factions. It will take time, I’m sure, but Eve-N Tech has always been good with working in the mid-term. | |||
Regardless…let’s see how this plays out, shall we? | |||
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''' | '''Long Time Suspicions'''<br> | ||
''From the Chambers of the Ministry of Intelligence'' | |||
Good People of the Empire, | |||
My position has given me a unique vantage point: I see better than most how our enemies operate, both within and without the bounds of the Empire. With the aid of House Glycon, I have gone through much of the intelligence the Empire has gathered both before the Anomaly Shockwave and in its immediate aftermath. Agents of my Ministry have carried out a number of fruitful investigations, which have painted quite the picture…one that has given light to a most profound revelation. This, I believe to be true with my entire being. | |||
Though my discoveries are not yet concluded, I have brought them forth to Emperor Craine, may he outlive the stars. His Imperial Majesty has granted that I share my suspicions with you all: Agents within the Federation are to blame for the anomalous events that saw so much of Factional space in peril only a few short months ago. | |||
Whether this has been done through the official mandate of the Federation government or is the work of some rogue element operating in the shadows, I am not yet free to disclose. But I demand, here and now and with all the power vested in me through the power of my office, that the Federation admit culpability and submit to our demands for access to Mímir. It must also reveal the parties at fault if they are known or discover them if they are not. Once this is done, and we have shown the light of the Emperor upon the Federation’s deceit, the question of recompense will be addressed. | |||
The Federation is not our friend. By the grace of The Imperator you have recognised this simple fact. No subject of the Empire must ever forget this again. | |||
Venthe Etruscus, Minister | |||
Venthe Etruscus, | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
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''' | '''On Balance'''<br> | ||
''Mongerl Lars, Steward of Information'' | |||
My brothers and sisters, I address you now in the long shadow of a great woman. Without getting into specifics, I will tell you that as Steward of Information, my suspicions on many an issue have been confirmed. | |||
The Empire will try to sow doubt and hate in this time of mourning. They will contribute to the fracturing of cooperation, heading down a path of singular vision with one point of light, Solas Craine. He keeps the masses in the dark as they raise their hands in blind awe. Curse him, I say. We here, right now, have a bargaining chip that will bring him to heel, and force him to act in the interest of all. Even the Emperor cannot deny the progress we have made working together. | |||
The Federation, for their part, have proven that even with a disjointed power structure and a hailstorm of differing opinions, they have the ability to focus on a good and right collaborative effort. Our loss was great, but equivalent to theirs. However, it is the fire in our hearts for Union ideals that we must nurture but keep in check. At the end of the day, the Federation is fatally opportunistic and will try at every point to leverage our own ideals of the common good against us. We must stay vigilant while strengthening the bonds of our common interests. | |||
In every one of you lies the fire to put word to action, but we must let the voting results take their due course. The choice to impose our autonomy in accessing Mímir will allow for proper burial rites to commence. The other Factions will no doubt have a kneejerk response, but our intent and purpose is pure. I have faith that time and the collective spirit of the MIEB Task Force will allow our partners to recognize this. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
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= Capitolo 12.1: Precipizio = | = Capitolo 12.1: Precipizio = | ||
===A Flurry of Accusations=== | |||
Transgalactic report 58.0.513, Trice Chavos, Universal Council | |||
Following last week’s vote, the Empire has accused its Federal neighbor of having a direct hand in the event that caused such turmoil across the galaxy, the Anomaly Shockwave.The Universal Council relates Minister Etruscus’s words here, directly from his communique: | |||
Agents within the Federation are to blame for the anomalous events that saw so much of Factional space in peril only a few short months ago. Whether this has been done through the official mandate of the Federation government or is the work of some rogue element operating in the shadows, I am not yet free to disclose. But I demand, here and now and with all the power vested in me through the power of my office, that the Federation admit culpability and submit to our demands for access to Mímir. It must also reveal the parties at fault if they are known or discover them if they are not. Once this is done, and we have shown the light of the Emperor upon the Federation’s deceit, the question of recompense will be addressed. | |||
The Minister’s accusations left no room for doubt as to the Empire’s position towards the Federation. Though Venthe Etruscus has not released a statement to the Universal Council itself, rumor among his staff claims the Minister is preparing proof against one or more corporate Federation entities at the behest of the Emperor. The Ministry of Truth has called for the Empire to boycott the two factions’ joint ventures, beginning in the immediate future–a move that, some say, has brought consternation among members of the Imperial Ministry of Wealth. | |||
The Federation has reacted with outrage, fury, and shocked disbelief at what they have called the Imperial Minister of Truth’s “baseless accusations”. Third Sector President Lee, whose continued efforts to provide humanitarian aid to Vargas has kept her from serving out the rest of her rotation on this station, demands to see the Empire’s proof in the strongest possible terms. Both Presidents Huxley and Adonis have flatly refused to entertain the notions, dismissing the Minister’s words as an attempt “to project strength in place of the Empire’s historical weakness while capitalizing on the Federation’s recent misfortune.” | |||
The Union’s reaction has been more muted–outside of general chatter and several diplomats’ promise to take the Empire’s concerns seriously while refusing to rule out that this is an Imperial attempt to destabilize trust in the MIEB task-force. The Vox’s Speaker is set to release a statement presently. | |||
For further details, consult your faction story channel. | |||
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''' | '''Leaders Don’t Wait to be Led''' | ||
''Third Sector President Kim Lee'' | |||
'' | |||
It pains me to know that both the Union and Empire have chosen to ignore the security mandate that they themselves gave to us. Regardless, the tightening of security around Mimir is and will be in the best interest of all parties, whether they can see this or not. We will continue this very delicate investigation, spanning the space around the IEB all the way down to the surface of Mimir. While my heart goes out to the families of the SNTNL clan and the Empire, we cannot yet allow access to the surface of Mimir at this time. | |||
The Federation will not allow impassioned and misguided accusations concerning the Anomaly Shockwave to muddy the waters during this delicate operation. Additional security has been dispatched to ensure the peace is kept around Mimir and the results of the ongoing investigation are produced with as much transparency as possible. Were any nefarious agents emboldened by unsubstantiated accusations to plant misleading evidence, it would lengthen the time needed for a speedy report of our findings. I will say to all Federation citizens as I would say to any Faction representative that our investigations adhere to the highest standards and must be allowed due course. | |||
What also concerns me is the Empire’s proclivity for power mongering. In regard to their “Warmaster’s” incendiary remarks and Minister Etruscus’ ultimatum, they both provide little to our commonly held goals, which remain harnessing the vast potential of safe EB travel. The choice to unilaterally dismiss the will of the Faction vote and place the deaths of so many from the Anomaly Shockwave on our shoulders is truly disheartening. I can only hope that before tensions mount further, the wiser among the Imperial houses, if they exist, speak some sense to those who have the ear of His Grace for the sake of interfactional peace. | |||
I am, however, a realist, and apparently alone in this regard as one of the Sector Presidents. It is not outside the realm of possibility that culpability for the Shockwave may lie with someone in the Federation. While it is difficult to imagine that anyone in the Federation might commit such a grave crime, the sad reality is, our faction is not without its criminal elements. The Federation government is currently weighing in the likelihood that elements of the underworld or illicit corporate agents may have triggered the catastrophe. Whether we concentrate on this and entertain Minister Etruscus’ accusations or ultimately censure the Empire for showing a lack of wisdom is the voter’s prerogative. | |||
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''' | '''At a Crossroads''' | ||
''Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Glycon.'' | |||
Minister Etruscus has initiated a teutonic shift across the power balance of the galaxy, one that will resonate down in history as a moment of truth. The Federation’s secrets will all soon come to the surface like so many worms crawling through the wet earth. What little surprise it is to see these feeble-minded opportunists not only benefit from tragedy but actively court it. Two of their presidents refuse to so much as accept the possibility of Minister Venthe Etruscus’ accusations—we will soon see if Third Section President Lee proves as blind as them. Proof, when it comes, will be undeniable. | |||
Each Ministry’s heads will hold a meeting under the Emperor’s auspices to discuss the future of this great faction–including the best way to transmit this proof to our rival factions and their populaces. Much work remains to be done but there is little doubt the Empire will grow all the stronger for its doing–as the Ministers carry the weight of change on their shoulders, so, too, you must carry your share of the burden. | |||
With the Federation’s integrity so plainly damaged–hopefully beyond repair, soon enough–a few points of order remain. Should trade be allowed to continue with such craven cowards? Has the Union been an unwitting player in all this, or are some within that faction the puppets of Federal masters? What did the Federation seek to gain by toying with phenomena they cannot so much as understand? The answers to many of these questions will fall in place as time goes on; the Ministerial meeting will grant clarity in many of these aspects. One question dwarves all others in urgency: Are we to withdraw from the MIEB Task Force? Even this minor concession stains the Empire with the Federation’s dishonor, after all. Or, perhaps, we play along–for a little while longer. For, when the Federation tears itself apart under the weight of its own lies… | |||
The Empire will pick up the pieces. | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
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''' | '''On Thin Ice''' | ||
My brothers and sisters in Union,, | |||
The Empire has accused the Federation of the most grievous offense: that elements within it are to blame for the Anomaly Shockwave. No matter what effort we put into moving past it, this disaster continues to threaten the precarious balance between our three factions. As the Empire piles on more and more incendiary allegations, I have to wonder: are they trying to push us all past the breaking point? | |||
Then there is the Federation. We supported working with them over the Empire recently–a token of trust that is of no small weight. If these accusations prove true, the Federation might as well have spat in our faces every time one of us offered a hand to one of them. How can we, in good conscience, work with the Federation government if they are, in fact, the engineers of the Shockwave? Can we even trust them when they say the MIEB Task Force Tragedy was an accident? Especially after their unsympathetic conduct in regard to the SNTNL vessel that sought to put Hayden to rest, I find myself less willing to offer them an olive branch than ever before. It is the sad reality of the situation that as Speaker, I must be clear: the Federation is on thin ice, even if their government manages to exonerate itself. | |||
Who do we believe? I will be the first to admit, the Empire has earned every single sliver of suspicion they now sow from us–their condescension, their pretense at honor and fidelity while they continue to embrace iniquity, Solas’ heavy-handedness in his every dealing with us. But the Federation bears direct responsibility for Blunt’s death, and if there’s an element of truth to this, they have much to pay for. We have two choices before us: either to rebuke the Empire’s accusations for their inflammatory nature, or to censure the Federation and demand an independent Union investigation be carried out in regards to the Federal government’s involvement. | |||
Make no mistake, we will get to the bottom of this mess. We will do so together, all of us, for the sake of our Union. | |||
Aish | Aish | ||
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''' | '''Voting Results''' | ||
''' | '''Vote on Federation Integrity in This Uncertain Age of the Einsen Bridge''' | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 65.0.513, Universal Council''<br> | ||
The interstellar factions have expressed their varying majority views on accusations of Federation culpability in the Anomaly Shockwave. The results are as follows: | |||
''' | '''Empire:'''<br> | ||
''Withdraw from the MIEB Task Force -'' '''62.68% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
'' | ''Remain part of the MIEB Task Force -'' '''37.32% Imperial favor'''<br> | ||
'' | |||
''' | '''Federation:'''<br> | ||
''Acknowledge Empire’s accusation -'' '''67.38% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Censure the Empire -'' '''32.62% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Union:'''<br> | ||
''Rebuke the Empire -'' '''57.23% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Censure the Federation -'' '''42.77% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | |||
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''' | '''A Poorly Veiled Attempt at More Control'''<br> | ||
''Jon Mashuu Collins, Interfaction Editor Op-Ed, Clarity Corps, a Novaros division'' | |||
Well there you have it, admission straight from the top. 3rd Sector President Kim Lee just said she stands alone stating that, “I am alone in this regard. It is not outside the realm of possibility that culpability for the Shockwave may lie with someone in the Federation.” This is how a bloated and over-reaching government tries to push for more power. She would have all corporate actors chained together under an even more invasive Federation government. | |||
Not today and not while Novaros exists to keep perspectives straight for true Federation citizens, not the fools who voted to acknowledge the hostile accusations from the Empire. The silence from President Huxley and Adonis does not speak to guilt, it speaks to handling things internally, where such accusations must first take place. How convenient it is that President Lee does not mention the culpability of her own sector, and yet insinuates bad actors are nonetheless a reality in the Federation. What next? Further corporate restrictions and reports necessary to Big Sister, that’s what. | |||
Ms. Lee and her ilk have worked in favor of bigger government and more external control for the Universal Council since day one of her presidency. Placing the blame on her peers and all that benefit from what the Federation was built on, the opportunity for individual entrepreneurial success and the profitable rise up the free and corporate ladder. If what she is attempting is not already clear as day, I will put it on the nose for you. Whoever smelt it, dealt it. | |||
We will never fail to bring you the straight and real take, Explorers. | |||
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'''In | '''In Defense of Reason'''<br> | ||
''From the Ministry of Knowledge Aboard The Sacrosanct'' | |||
My friends, | |||
My Ministerial colleague has caused quite the stir, has he not? Lest you forget, the Universal Council exists for a reason and that reason continues to bear relevance to us all. Conflict may benefit some in the short term, but it will prove disastrous to many more. I have no doubt Minister Etruscus has the truth of it–but the penalty the Federation will pay must be decided on the negotiation table, and that cannot be done unless we all leave behind the rhetoric of war along with our participation in the MIEB Task Force. | |||
I have lived longer than half my colleagues combined. I would suggest every last one of us take a good, hard look at all we have; whether you treasure objects or people, be certain that if war were to break out, you would suffer unimaginable losses, but such is the burden His Grace can lay upon our shoulders. It is the Empire’s duty to guide humanity down a righteous path–but we must be wary of drowning in blood the steps we leave behind. | |||
Take care, Imperials. We must not be drawn into conflict upon leaving the MIEB. Honor demands we hold the moral ground as we seek to cleanse the rot within our rival faction. | |||
Minister Mathias Voden, House Voden | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra | |||
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''' | '''Told You So'''<br> | ||
''Mongerl Lars, Steward of Information'' | |||
Didn’t I warn you, my brothers and sisters? Didn’t I tell you the Empire would seek only discord? They bend any situation to their purpose, any tragedy to their advantage. This is what tyranny begets, my fellow Unionites. Let it serve as a reminder for all: down with false kings and prophets. | |||
Speaker Fenix is worried my rhetoric against the Empire might be prejudicing some of you against them. Good, I say. I’ve never bought into this idea that we should keep to some sort of neutrality–least of all now, when it’s more my duty to speak out than ever before. | |||
The Federation is no flower, either. They have chosen to spit in the face of our SNTNL clan’s traditions. They have continued to gather forces around IEB space, what should be neutral space, using a joint research agreement to excuse their grab at a planet we are all owed free access to. Irenic, my ass. We have tried to work with them, tried to let bygones be bygones. Trust me when I tell you, we are all of us close to the breaking point, and now the Federation has voted to acknowledge Imperial accusations after reinforcing their position around Mímir. The Federation government has too many cooks in the kitchen–but that is only to be expected, with their placing of the individual in the center of a corrupt, egotistical value system. These are people who can never speak with one voice, as clearly as we of the Union can. | |||
I say all this that you may understand my skepticism when I share with you this: Ivona Craine, Commander of the Empire’s Third Fleet and granddaughter to Solas, contacted my agents some time ago and has requested that a meeting on Mímir be arranged. While I fully expect a ploy, Faceless Emmet, The Steward of Security, is willing to take responsibility that the meeting goes as it should. My colleagues and I will keep you in the loop as the situation develops. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
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= Capitolo 13.1: Un frutto proibito = | = Capitolo 13.1: Un frutto proibito = | ||
'' | ===Uncanny Visitations=== | ||
''Transgalactic report 72.8.512, Trice Chavos, Universal Council'' | |||
With Federation credibility being tested in regard to the Anomaly Shockwave event, the future of the MIEB Task Force falls further into question. Coupled with questionable management strategies in the aftermath of the FSS Skłodowska’s destruction, the Universal Council sees the need behind a constructive reevaluation of the Task Force. | |||
This brings me to a pressing piece of news that threatens the delicate prospects of fostering stronger cooperation in the face of adversity among the Factions. Ivona Craine’s unannounced arrival has surprised not just us on the Council, but has raised the hair on the backs of the Union, Federation, and even the Empire itself. | |||
It is no secret to anyone that this is highly unusual, given the fact that notice of her “official” visit was provided to the Council only after her presence became known to us. I do not go as far as to say her intentions are in opposition to the Empire, as some might suggest. The internal workings of the Emperor’s mind have always been of a speculative nature, and considering Ivona’s status with the Emperor, it is not beyond the realm of possibility that her visit is indeed sanctioned. The tumult in the Empire has certainly kept His Excellency busy of late. | |||
The council has called for a vote on Ivona Craine’s presence on Mímir to clarify the situation and bring swift resolution to an already heated situation. Your Faction representatives will address the finer details presently. | |||
For further details, consult your faction story channel. | |||
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''' | '''A Foxen-Hound Hunt''' | ||
''Lina Khairn-Dwyer, Chief Mímir Correspondent, Takeyon Reports'' | |||
''Lina Khairn-Dwyer, | |||
I | Folks, I don’t know what to tell you. Since my rotation on the Tonocom flagship The Merchant Prince began, I have seen Tonocom’s forces easily quadruple around Mímir. I’m seeing slick new ships just off TANUS Robotiks’ production lines, kindly supplied with advanced autonomous drone tech developed by Chief Engineer Anders herself. Despite the daunting size of our fleet, vessels of the Union and Federation have chosen to disregard Dr. Barnhardt’s order to halt while results of the investigation are completed. The temperature out here is running a little bit high, with more and more Fed personnel complaining of an itchy trigger finger–as our Union neighbors might say, “Ain’t no cure for that,” folks! | ||
Things are not looking too hot for peace right now…which is why this show’s head honchos have come together to try and work something more sustainable out. Whatever dance’s going on with the Empire and the Union, we can’t have that threatening what should be on the forefront of everyone’s minds–cracking that toughest nut of all, safe Einsen Bridge travel. But since it’s obvious our partners are too distracted in some bizarre foxen-hound hunt, Donel Gladson, President Adonis, and Dr. Barnhardt have put their heads together to come up with a solution. This is where things get interesting, because while Mr. Gladson wants the Federation to host a peace summit on the surface of Mímir, Dr. Barnhard demands a message be sent that if any more Union and Imperial ships enter Mimir’s space unpermitted, Federation ships will open fire. | |||
Let me tell you, folks, these two are not on the best terms right now. They have, however, agreed to be bound by Madame Adonis’s tie-breaking vote. Here’s where you all come in: President Adonis has refused to side with either, deciding instead to give her voice to the Federation’s citizens. Should the Federation host a peace summit in an act of goodwill towards its neighbors or should we put our foot down and make sure the other factions know we’ve got teeth just as sharp as theirs. Hell, sharper. | |||
Now, I know some of you have had reason to worry lately. I can hardly stop checking my Nexus overlay in the middle of the night myself. It’s hard to get out of the sense of doom and gloom that pervades everything lately–but you know as well as I do that, the only way to change our situation is by exercising our Fed-given right to vote! | |||
And don’t forget to tune in later to catch Takeyon’s retrospective look at one of the Federation’s hottest careers: The Merchant Prince’s very own commander in chief, Tonocom CEO Donel Gladson! | |||
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''' | '''The Imperator’s Grace Shall Go With Her''' | ||
''Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Etruscus.'' | |||
Transmission from Venthe Etruscus | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
As provocative as the news of late have been, all Houses atop this great Empire work for the glory of all, and all work for the glory of the Empire. The tragedy of the science vessel FSS Skłodowska’s, which could have been avoided if Imperial advice was heeded, subsequent censoring of the aftermath, and revelations of Federation cover-ups have tried the patience of His Grace, may he outlive the stars. In his everlasting wisdom, he has sent his own granddaughter, Ivona Craine, to clear the muddying waters around Mímir and reinforce our interests there. | |||
Regardless of what tumult our great Empire has seen of late, Ivona’s life is one of service in glory to the Empire and her loyalty has never been in doubt. Therefore, again in His great wisdom, support more becoming of Ivona Craine’s status is required. The Minister of Security has been the loudest among us, insisting that he be allowed to escort the progeny of the Emperor. The Warmaster is filled with pride and zeal for all Imperial endeavors seeing the youth of the Empire take such strong strides into a situation that has gone without significant Imperial influence for long enough. | |||
The Ministry of Knowledge was quick to follow up the Security Minister’s fiery offer with an equally impassioned, yet calmer stance. Their message is as follows: | |||
Tensions are unnecessarily high, and for all our power and history and honor, it is in no one’s interest to stoke the fires of conflict that might lead to war. Surely the Emperor sees this and wishes to strengthen the message sent by Ivona’s sanctioned presence on Mímir by sending the head of a Ministry that knows all and can advise on all things. There is no need for a sledgehammer when a simple key will open doors. | |||
Through the light of His Excellency, the vote is put to you. Who should escort our brave Ivona on Mímir: Minister of Security, Hakon Va-Halet or Minister of Knowledge, Mathias Voden? | |||
Your choice is the Emperor’s choice. Be not misled by any other light. | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
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''' | '''Looks Like We See Eye to Eye''' | ||
Old Mother here, my fellow Unionists. | |||
This whole Ivona Craine business has stirred up a hell of a bee’s nest. Asylum or no asylum, I think we all know why she’s left Imperial space without tellin’ anyone. I’ve lived too long in the shadow of conflict sittin’ here on the ass-end of Union space with the Federation peeking over our walls to not know when something smells funny. Where you are says a lot about a person or group and what they intend. If Ivona Craine is on Mimir, you can bet good steel to gears that woman ain’t there on official business. | |||
Imagine, the commander of the Imperial Third Fleet comin’ over to the Union and embracin’ our creed. There’s no better way to live a life than in service to others. She’d bring a wealth of information that couldn’t be negotiated for even by Federation lawyers! Some are sayin’ she’d be a hell of a bargainin’ piece against the Empire if we can get her. And ya know what? I bet we can. She brought in Montez Lycanis and wrecked his tiny fleet faster than the Bastion can charge its alien technology for a jump. Maybe, but that ain’t the Union way. She’d be one of us, and I’d welcome her into the fold, Empire be damned. | |||
Now, the Empire’s Minister of Trust has sent over some transmissions stating in pompous and shitty Imperial fashion that granting asylum to ANY Imperial citizen will be met with “unfavorable consequences.” I’d have wiped my backside with the words if they’d been written on something physical. I’m not one for fightin’ when it can be avoided, but I can tell you this, Venthe Etruscus ain’t the man who’s gonna tell the Union what it can and can’t do. I have hope you all see that to be the case and will let him know what we really think of him and his threats. | |||
Our choice is this: We tell the Empire to shove it because Ivona Craine will be under Union protection, or emphasize asylum as a fundamental human right and bring their power mongering to heel without stoking any more fires. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
Sethra Goodrun | |||
</div></div> | |||
<code>Per ulteriori dettagli, consultare gli archivi:</code> [[Lore Codex|📖║lore-codex]] | |||
<code>Per ulteriori dettagli, consultare gli archivi:</code> [[Lore Codex|📖║lore-codex]] | |||
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4 ; padding: 10px; border: 1px solid black; width:39%"> | <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4 ; padding: 10px; border: 1px solid black; width:39%"> | ||
''' | '''Voting Results''' | ||
'' | '''Votes on a multitude of issues on and around Mímir.''' | ||
''Transgalactic report 76.1.513, Trice Chavos, Universal Council''<br> | |||
The Universal Council continues to call for peace and sound logic among the factions. The results are as follows: | |||
'' | '''Empire:'''<br> | ||
''Minister of Security -'' '''61.78% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''Minister of Knowledge -'' '''38.22% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
'''Federation:'''<br> | |||
''Host a peace summit -'' '''58.21% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Send out a final warning -'' '''41.79% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | |||
'' | |||
'''Union:'''<br> | |||
''Compassion versus strength -'' '''61.97% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Strength against strength -'' '''38.03% of the votes'''<br> | |||
</div> | </div> | ||
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''' | '''Speak Peace but Carry a Big Delivery of Advanced Drone Fighters'''<br> | ||
''Ninyo Kovero, Foreign Correspondent and Columnist - Core Temperature, A Novum Auxiliary'' | |||
Hot take here, Explorers. | |||
Annoying pockets of lobbyists have recently succeeded in partially hijacking Democracy, though not this time around. Thank Sol. Imagine if the vote had been to give a last warning shot up some Empire or Union nose? We’d likely be reporting on a build up to war. Luckily, the temperature has leveled off for a moment as the vote went entirely in the opposite direction to hold a peace summit. Having four times as many ships and a dizzying number of new Tonocom drones stretching around Mímir didn’t hurt matters either. Checkmate! | |||
And not a moment after you goal-oriented Explorers voted for reason over brute strength, most uptight media outlets received reports of a massive Union fleet on it’s way to Mímir. I’m not worried since we can just point our guns at each other and talk like civilized people. I’m feelin some tension between the Union and Empire about Ivona Craine seeking asylum. Not quite sure why she would choose the Union, to be honest. If she rolls like that, she’d be a natural on the upper rungs of the good ole’ corporate fast track to success. But she probably wouldn’t want to start at the bottom and have to work her way up like we all do. Sounds like she’s A LOT. | |||
All in all, we are looking forward to the fruits of the peace summit. Many of us, as well as many of you, will be coming right here, to Core Temperature to enjoy a peek at the wining and dining that accompanies these summits. Difficult to get your hands on finer real cuisine while going nowhere around the orbit of Mímir, let me tell you. | |||
You can check out coverage of all the event highlights, from summit speakers to dinner menus here at Core Temperature, the coolest place for the hottest in news and entertainment. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''His Grace's Granddaughter...Priceless. Part 1'''<br> | ||
''From the Chambers of the Ministry of Wealth'' | |||
Greetings to His Excellency, Imperator Solas, who is the Empire in its entirety, and to who we live and breathe in unwavering awe. | |||
Every second given to me by this great Empire I spend on this message to you, faithful citizens. I consider it an investment in the light of His vision. Being the only woman voted into a Ministerial position on merit and merit alone, it is the wisdom of His Grace that implores me now to add a rare but necessary investment of brevity into Lord Va-Halet’s strategy in regard to Ivona Craine. | |||
Whether by word or by sword, the respected Minister of the great House Va-Halet will certainly not forget the value that both Ivona Craine and Mímir have to the Empire’s future. While on his mission to provide support to His Grace’s granddaughter, I provide sound advice. Any knee-jerk moves born in the rightly placed passion for the Empire can, even at the best of times, effect the Imperial Ministry of Wealth’s bottom line in not such a glorious fashion. | |||
Forgive me, but a woman must sometimes be blunt where delicate language might fall short of benefitting the Empire. As debt is for slaves, I cannot imagine a situation where the good Lord Va-Halet would bring unnecessary expenditures to His Excellency’s Ministry while providing support to the Commander of the Third Fleet. War is an expensive endeavor and, though it can be lucrative under favorable conditions, would be ill-timed presently. | |||
'''His Grace's Granddaughter...Priceless. Part 2'''<br> | |||
The Ministry of Wealth runs on the simple belief that when we are close to His Grace’s abundant light, one cannot help but turn to it and add whatever one can give. Ivona Craine was born in the light, and is made of the light, and if any doubt be upon you, good citizens of the Empire, that she isn’t worthy of support, perhaps you have forgotten something valuable. Imperator Solas himself would have such unfaithful and unworthy individuals hanged in the shining rays of His wisdom by their ragged and unfaithful feet until dead. | |||
Nona Levidis, Minister of Wealth | |||
Nona Levidis, | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
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''' | '''All for One'''<br> | ||
''Kase Marshall, Steward of Expression'' | |||
Well works to you, brothers and sisters. My job gives me the rare opportunity to speak to some interesting individuals and relate what they say to you. I’ve spoken to, or had a quick word with, the elusive man of few words himself, Faceless Emmet. | |||
Basically, he said the Commander of the Empire’s Third Fleet isn’t weak, but in this case, doesn’t have the strength to defend herself. In seeking asylum, which is harder than you might think, she acknowledges a fundamental human right that is non-existant for most in the Empireis. Walking away from the her House means she isn’t safe for long. Suffice it to say, Ivona has come for help and is gonna get it. Personally, I’m looking forward to hearing what she has to say. | |||
Damn, almost forgot. Emmet mentioned something very interesting before leaving with his masked second in command. He said, “I don’t imagine her path to seek asylum was a smooth or swift one. I have heard from others in the Empire who wish to break free cannot even do so with access to considerable resources, and that after taking the first step away from the Empire, the only alternative to success is a horrible and very public death.” Emmet finished with expressin that that’s all we need to know about it. | |||
I bet. Let’s not forget that her grandfather is Solas Craine and has proven himself to be an oppressive murderous rat bastard and obfuscator of any truth that isn’t his own. I’d like to see the look on his face when Ivona is safely in Union space as we clearly, express a collective, “get fucked” his way in the name of human rights. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
= Capitolo 14.1: Buoni Samaritani? = | = Capitolo 14.1: Buoni Samaritani? = | ||
'' | ===At the Gates=== | ||
''Transgalactic report 01.1.513, Admiral Lyra Montaine, Universal Council'' | |||
Faction citizens, subjects, members, | |||
I wish I could greet you with better news for the New Year, but it was not meant to be. I’ll jump right into it: Tensions around Mímir have reached new heights. While Minister Va-Halet has been held up in transit, a fleet of Union vessels has arrived at the edge of IEB space. They entered Mímir space without any need to heed the Federation perimeter since the Federation itself has called for a peace summit. | |||
The Union has stringently defended the fleet’s appearance, demanding its intentions are peaceful, and its personnel wholly scientific, despite the rumors that Faceless Emmett, the Steward of Security, is these ships’ commander. They have repeated that the ships–at least three of which are ancient dreadnoughts–hold no military capabilities at present. | |||
The Federation expected a small number of Union dignitaries to join the peace summit, not an entire flotilla–though they have held their fingers firmly off any triggers thanks to the prior Federation decision, they are nonetheless nervous to face another faction’s fleet like this. Faced with messages to back down, Union channels fiercely deny they have any hostile intentions in mind, a statement the Federation has contested through official diplomatic channels. President Adonis has stated that the Federation is willing to continue its work with the Union, but only if it can be given access to inspect the Union’s vessels. Response to this offer has yet to be put on the table. | |||
The Empire’s response has been more muted. Warmaster Hakon has demanded he inspect the dreadnought armaments. People close to Minister Hakon have given the Council reason to believe this reflects his personal interests more than the Empire’s official position. | |||
The Universal Council will continue to monitor the situation closely and report any developments as they occur. | |||
For further details, consult your faction story channel. | |||
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'''A Moment’s Stupefaction''' | |||
''Lina Khairn-Dwyer, Chief Mímir Correspondent, Takeyon Reports'' | |||
''' | |||
Folks, if you thought my last report painted a bleak picture, just you wait to see the face of a Federation officer when they get notified a Union armada is parked out front without so much as a call beforehand. I was interviewing Squad Leader Pierre Orran in the mess hall just this morning, feeling out the mood that has gradually overtaken the fleet since the last vote, and you can bet all my work went right in the trash when the Merchant Prince’s comms called all personnel to battle stations at the sudden appearance of scores of Union ships. The look of stupefaction on Orran was reflected across all our faces, I’m sure. It must have continued for a heartbeat, maybe two for everyone but me. Surprise or doubt on Orran’s face was quickly replaced by a hardened resolve no one’s better in instilling than our Corp instructors. | |||
Feverish action after–steady and well-practiced. A credit to the elite professionals that make our Federation military the backbone that holds our identity together. It’s funny but I couldn’t tell you what I was doing for a good half an hour after, not until it became crystal clear the Union ships were just standing there, still as can be, as if taunting every single one of us onboard, laughing in the face of our proposed peace conference. We could have taken them, even with their element of the surprise–I didn’t need a semester in military tactics at Guinn Institute to figure that out, just a look at the conditions of some of those ships–but that first moment of fear, I don’t know how all those soldiers overcame it as quick as they did. That’s Federation pilots and marines for you. Tonocom sure knows how to make them. | |||
No attack followed. You know this much. The Union’s hails have offered unsolicited scientific and investigatory aid, as well as repeated insistence that this is the Union’s contribution to the peace conference–despite the fact that the size of it is directly in conflict with Fed specifications. It is in the Federation’s hands to choose how we respond to this provocation: do we condemn the Union’s behavior for the cheap ploy it is, or do we play along and accept this “delegation” in yet another attempt to safeguard the MIEB Task-Force’s cohesion? That is, naturally, if the Union accepts to have Federation investigators corroborate their claims of peaceful intentions. | |||
Remember, folks, it’s your voice that counts–make sure it’s heard! | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
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''' | '''The Honorable Choice''' | ||
''Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, Minister Morell.'' | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
My role as Minister of Honor is not an easy one to navigate. I give tirelessly in service to the Emperor, knowing all the meanwhile I may make an error in judgment. A high position of governance–as high as mine–does not allow for errors, Imperials. Not a one. | |||
The problem before me is as follows: The Federation must be reminded, every single cycle, that it is violating the spirit of the Faction agreement over Mímir. The Empire’s decision to cut its ties to the MIEB Task-Force was but one reminder; the fact that, as I speak, Minister Hakon Va-Halet is disembarking on a Union vessel floating around Mímir rather than on The Merchant Prince, is another. The appearance of the Union’s fleet, whatever the true reason behind it, also serves to this end. In this, they have proven useful to the Empire. | |||
Yet, there is no honor to the Union’s conduct. That is plain to all–no matter what they say, they seek to provoke with this surprise appearance of theirs. To what end, time will tell; I would not be surprised if they haven’t quite figured that out for themselves; the Union brain takes a good long while to catch up with the actions of its undisciplined body. | |||
The choice before the Empire is the following: Shall we support the Union in this stunt of theirs, or shall we rebuke them–returning in kind the blow they delivered when my colleague, Minister Venthe Etruscus, provided the Imperial light of truth to the galaxy? | |||
Choose wisely–your Emperor demands it. | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
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''' | '''An Act of Goodwill''' | ||
My brothers and sisters, | |||
How the Federation overreacts to yet another show of goodwill is beyond me. We of the Union recognize our fellow human’s struggles. The willingness of so many to go to their aid out of nothing so much as the goodness in their hearts, to offer scientific expertise on a number of matters that obviously have continued to baffle the Federation–and to be treated as criminals, a bunch of pirates who have no purpose beyond loot is as offensive to me as it is to any of you. | |||
The Empire has asked if this is my doing, if this mission is ‘sanctified’ by the Vox. The Federation’s questions are similar in line, but more forceful in their tone. What a funny concept they have, either way. As if I, your humble Speaker, would have the authority to send fleets at the snap of a finger. I could have asked, and the Vox could have sent out the call–but why would we? When it’s in the Union’s nature to be free, for our communities to recognize the need for help and offer this help on their own? | |||
The Federation doubts our peaceful intentions. The Empire’s weary curiosity is, for once, a reaction we can at least understand. Despite recent communiques from high-level members of their government, the presence of Minister Voden/Warmaster Hakon is not without its opportunity for the exchange of useful intelligence between our two sides. I say we show them all–give free reign to their inspectors, their ambassadors and dignitaries. Let them aboard, invite them in, feed ‘em, water ‘em, show ‘em Union hospitality. No, not that kind of hospitality. You all know I mean for you to treat them like guests–right? | |||
There is another path we can take: if the Federation does not wish to believe us, if they spit once more on our goodwill and willingness to aid them in what has become a bloated investigation with no end in sight…we can simply leave. | |||
What will it be? The people’s voice will guide our hand in this–as it always has. | |||
Aish | Aish | ||
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''' | '''Voting Results''' | ||
''' | '''Cacophonous''' | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 5.1.513, Admiral Lyra Montaine, Universal Council''<br> | ||
The Universal Council calls for calm in this time of deepening crisis. The results are as follows: | |||
''' | '''Empire:'''<br> | ||
''Support the Union -'' '''65.7% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''Rebuke the Union -'' '''34.3% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Federation:'''<br> | ||
''Condemn the Union’s behavior -'' '''59.81% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Accept the Union’s aid -'' '''40.19% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Union:'''<br> | ||
''Give investigators access to Union vessels -'' '''75.26% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Leave the system -'' '''24.74% of the votes'''<br> | |||
</div> | |||
= Capitolo 14.2: Buoni Samaritani? = | |||
=== '''Dopo questi risultati del voto.. ''' === | |||
=== '''Dopo questi risultati del voto.. ''' === | |||
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''' | '''A Drop of Dissent'''<br> | ||
''Blagoi Shulka, Ignis Correspondent, Novum News'' | |||
Have these Union dupes no shame? Have they no basic, common decency? Slithering into the system like thieves in the night, all but breaking every law of hospitality of what should be a peaceful conference between equals? Oh, this is rich! It’s good, that’s what it is! If the Union thinks they can keep playing the poor victim card after they pull a stunt like this–they better think again. And if they try, oh, if they try–it’ll be Blagoi Shulka who reminds them, and all you folks at home. | |||
I hope they try something. As every single one of you is my witness, I hope they do. The Union needs to be put in its rightful place; you ask me, that place is the ditch and nowhere else. At least the Federation speaks as one when we rebuke them for this foolish posturing. | |||
As to our fearless leaders, I have a message to you. To all you Presidents, CEOs, spooks, and military schmucks: don’t be too rigid with that trigger finger. I’m as happy as anyone to bankroll the hundred k’s worth of ammunition it’ll take to sink those Union rust-buckets. And while I’m at it…release the damned Tragedy report already, will ya? | |||
Regardless…let’s see how this plays out, shall we? | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
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''' | '''Not a Single Bullet'''<br> | ||
''Warmaster Hakon Va-Halet'' | |||
I tell you, Imperials, but these ancient rust-buckets are something else. We don’t make ‘em like this anymore, and for good reason. Walking into the salvaged heart of a Reverence-class dreadnought though, few things compare. The Union has made a mess of it with their gaudy “art”, graffiti in a variety of styles that would make your head hurt if you looked at them too long. Still, they couldn’t take away from the majesty of the old girl–and they showed me respect as I came onboard. I did as the Emperor and the Empire have bid me, and offered up the Empire’s support for this crusade of theirs. | |||
Union folk might be piss-poor and their hygiene standards leave much to desire, but there’s something warm about the genuine human joy they showed when I made their ship captains aware of the Empire’s position. They even invited me to observe the Federation’s inspection. Grumbling lot that the members of the Fed mission were, I did it…and not just because I was hoping to see one of those first-gen Razorclaw gatling guns. | |||
What has become crystal clear is that the Union does not have a single missile, not a single bullet, in any of their guns or ammo depots onboard the fleet. My retinue and I made sure to check not only what the Union wanted us to see but also what they patently didn’t. | |||
Strange as it is, these Union people genuinely believed they would show up at the doorstep of a Federation flotilla and be welcomed with open arms, their offer of aid accepted without question. | |||
The naivete…It makes you laugh, doesn’t it? More at the Union than with them, but it’s a start. | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
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''' | '''Hypotheticals'''<br> | ||
''Faceless Emmet, Steward of Safety'' | |||
No matter the good will we show the Federation, they will always doubt us, always fear us, always misunderstand us. This latest vote has made one thing clear: we will always be ready to aid our fellow humans, no matter what lies may be spewed forth about our motives. As they rebuke us, so we open our arms that they may see–ours is a just cause, and we need no bullets to speak for us. | |||
And speaking of aid… | |||
What if I told you that, while the Federation and Union fleets had their misunderstandings aired out, a SNTNL shuttle equipped with advanced stealth-tech landed on Mímir? What if, during the performance of the SNTNL folk’s farewell ritual for Hayden Blunt, a woman showed up, Imperial-born but more than a little interested in learning about the Union’s ways? | |||
What if she called on the law of shared warmth? You couldn’t well blame the SNTNLs for inviting her on-board, could you? Could anyone? | |||
Food for thought, brothers and sisters. | |||
Food for thought. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
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= Capitolo 15.1: Aikawarazu = | = Capitolo 15.1: Aikawarazu = | ||
=== | ===Back to the Lesson at Hand=== | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 14.1.513, Trice Chavos, Universal Council'' | ||
The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program: | |||
…wild swings in which way each Faction’s leadership is facing every few weeks. Thanks to the open discourse the Federation’s peace summit offered, it’s clear that the Factions agree with this assessment. | |||
The potential for inward-looking votes to breed miscommunication and the heightening of tensions is too great. Thus, it is this council’s determination, within its rights granted to us by the Empire, Federation, and Union, that voting on critical issues once again be administered using a two-thirds majority system. All present already understand this system, but it must be said that every Faction will vote on the exact same issue using the designated Faction channels. The Core Systems will once again march together down the selected path via majority vote, and not a second too soon. | |||
There are very few individuals in the Core Systems who would merit direct Council intervention; however Ivona Craine, who currently still holds a seat in these chambers, is certainly one of them. Ivona has requested we officially ratify her asylum and therefore protection from the Empire. She offers to us a message she claims is directly from the Oracle and concerns the fate of The Arbiter. She will provide us with this message only if she receives what she has every right to request. Even though we have no way of proving if this message is really from the Oracle or not, the Council notes that Ivona Craine has not once proven herself a liar. We move to continue taking her at her word. | |||
Complicating the issues is her presence aboard Faceless Emmet’s ship, The Unbroken. Upon coming out of stealth, he sent out a general hail to all in orbit around Mímir stating: | |||
“Our fleet is indeed unarmed, and regardless of Federation condemnation of our goodwill and rejection of assistance, inspections have proven Union words to be honest and true. Along with the rare but welcome Imperial acknowledgment of our intentions, we have met the standards put to us by the Faction vote. In addition, Ivona Craine, having been granted asylum by the Vox, will be escorted to Union space. Do not attempt to stop us. Our collective voice need say no more.” | |||
Minister Va-Halet has contacted us repeatedly and requested we formally reject these ridiculous attempts at stealing Ivona Craine away from the Empire, where she belongs. He has offered us tangible research on advanced plating that he assures us is far into active experimentation and will be vital to EB travel. If we do not, Va-Halet threatens that the data will be kept for exclusive Imperial use. The Minister was quick to add that the Empire had already planned to be forthcoming with this information. Whether we choose to believe his intent, he added that such extraordinary maneuvering by the Union has prompted him to use everything at his disposal…short of lethal force. | |||
For further details, consult your faction story channel where your vote will be recorded. | |||
''Lina Khairn-Dwyer, | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
'''A Key Investment''' | |||
''Lina Khairn-Dwyer, Chief Mímir Correspondent, Takeyon Reports'' | |||
Good Sol there, Explorers! | |||
If it wasn’t already hot around Mimir, man, things just pitched up quick. After Union vessels were inspected, all seemed fine with the galaxy momentarily. Then the elephant in the room over the last few weeks finally stood up and made its presence known. Ivona Craine is officially requesting that the Universal Council recognize her asylum to the Union. It wasn’t long after when the Imperial vessels that accompanied Minister Va-Halet, A.K.A Warmaster Hakon, began repositioning themselves into a defensive formation. | |||
What a mess. Just goes to show what can happen when healthy corporate oversight is abandoned for mob rule or the rule of one. I have it on good authority from Tonocom Defense that measures are being put into place to ensure stealth ships will not be able to slip past Federation scanners with zero trace. The Union stealth tech is incredible, but not infallible, I’m sure. After listening to Tonocom, I believe it. | |||
So what say you, Explorers? Do we care more for plating that may or may not benefit our stalled progress towards EB travel or more about the fate of an entire crew of Universal Council officers? I know the Oracle is a legit artifact, but it’s so mysterious. Who can tell whether a message is from the Oracle or not? Especially if we aren’t there, sitting in front of it ourselves, chanting or drinking blood or whatever the Emperor does to get it to work. | |||
I do like that we are reverting to the previous way of voting being done because look at us now, sitting here with nothing but advantages to choose from. If we think in terms of what choice presents the most value, I could make the argument for ship plating tech. But what can an Imperial scientist or alchemist or smith do that a well-trained organization built from the ground up can’t? If it’s not Ronaen-related, and you can’t stick it through someone’s chest, I argue that Federation scientists can hold their own. | |||
I remember the story about The Arbiter. It was one of the first pieces I worked on. The team was amazing. But the story only had two possible endings, either they disappeared and survived, or they didn’t. With so many deaths since then, it’s hard to really put that event into perspective, but I can say this: if they survived and there’s a way to contact them, that’s a lot of little miracles mixed with one or two huge ones. But imagine if they did survive and the Oracle actually knew something about them. The knowledge they might provide could make EB travel a reality! | |||
Either way, it seems like not enough concrete information for a Federation citizen to stand on in terms of a decision making. But, we all need to consider what’s there and make a choice, regardless. | |||
Place your votes, Explorers, because they count now more than ever. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''A Gracious Offer''' | ||
''Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, Minister Va-Halet.'' | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
The Emperor’s Warmaster does not speak when it is unnecessary. I am here to inform the citizens of the Empire that His Grace’s kindness has been thrown back in our face. Right now, the Commander of the Third Fleet, Ivona Craine, is aboard a Union vessel. A Union vessel that just recently and dubiously appeared out of stealth after feelings were high and goodwill was exchanged between our two factions. | |||
Where did goodwill towards the Union get us? It dashed to the mud our Imperator’s good grace and placed an imperceptible fog over our unwavering vigilance. Never again will I allow this to happen. I have made our Empire’s demand clear to the Universal Council. Ivona Craine will be returned immediately to Imperial protection, where she belongs. They understand that there should be no hesitation in denouncing this ridiculous idea of asylum. | |||
If His Grace’s intent was not already more than enough to assist the Council into correct action, we have also offered what will amount a boon to all the factions. Such is His will, may he outlive the stars. The research done in the aftermath of the tragic Skłodowska explosion, which could have been prevented if the MIEB Task Force had listened more to us, will provide the Universal Council’s efforts will state of the art hull-plating technology we believe will be crucial to EB travel. | |||
I doubt the Council will let such an offering slip through their fingers, but a vote is required nonetheless. | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
[Secondary Transmission Inbound] | |||
Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, Minister Etruscus. | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
Imperator Solas is the Empire, and anything that may benefit the Empire is sought after by His Grace. Minister Va-Halet’s fiery rhetoric is commendable in that it reflects his undying passion to benefit the Empire. His track record speaks for itself, and long may he serve our Emperor and his storied House. | |||
I bring the light of context to our “Warmaster’s” message in that we will not cease in our condemnation of the Union’s attempt at stealing Ivona Craine away from the Empire. War is not our goal. War does not benefit His Grace at this time. I am sure that whatever methods the Union is employing, Ivona is ever the wiser for them. | |||
We will have her off that rusty excuse for a ship soon enough. | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
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<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
'''Our Decision Won’t be Denied''' | |||
To my brothers and sisters. | |||
After proving our intent to both the Federation and Empire, when we shouldn’t have needed to, we get this “Warmaster” pokin’ his ships up our rear-ends as we rightfully turn to leave. How much more do we have to do to get the respect we deserve out here, amongst the stars? Well, Faceless Emmet is at the helm of this one and there’s no one better at maneuvering in ways that can’t be seen. I spoke with him before he left. He didn’t say much but that said a lot. We all share in the plots and plans of the Union, but that man operates in places that the rest of us don’t have to. Yet every time, he’s doin what needs to be done for every one of us. | |||
Ivona Craine. | Ivona Craine. The treasure trove of knowledge and tactical expertise that she will bring us is priceless. I just hope the Council sees the straight and clear logic of it like we all do. The Vox already granted her asylum, so she’s good to go as far as I’m concerned. But she knows her way around that Universal Council floor, so her asking is a tactician’s way of preventing the trigger happy Lord Va-Halet from stepping into an intergalactic minefield. | ||
Speaking of which, leave it to the Empire to hoard something and only offer it up for something in return. They were with us in the MIEB Task Force and still worked to undermine the collective good. It’s that damned Emperor, I tell ya. The cult to that man, if we can still call him that, is the worst thing to happen to this Galaxy since the destruction of Sol. At least the Universal Council is back on track and can bring us all down the same path again. | |||
The choice for us is obvious, I’d think, but that’s why we take the vote, isn’t it? Ivona here in Union space or returned to the Empire for some ship plating tech. My heart goes out to the families of the crew on The Arbiter, but that was a while ago and a lot has happened since. I guess we will see, brothers and sisters. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
Mongrel Lars | Mongrel Lars | ||
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''' | '''Voting Results''' | ||
''' | '''Consequences''' | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 17.1.513, Moira Craine, Universal Council''<br> | ||
The final vote is in favor of recognizing Ivona Craine’s asylum. Minister Va-Halet has been contacted and ordered to not interfere with the Union’s escort. Council ships have been ordered to Mimir to receive the Oracle’s message concerning the fate of The Arbiter per Ivona’s request. | |||
She was unclear why person to person transmission of the information is necessary but urges the Council to hurry. | |||
Recognize Ivona's asylum - '''3 (Empire, Federation, Union)'''<br> | |||
Reject Ivona's asylum - '''0 ()'''<br> | |||
'''Empire:'''<br> | |||
''Recognize asylum -'' '''61.3% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''Reject asylum -'' '''38.7% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''' | '''Federation:'''<br> | ||
''Recognize asylum -'' '''72.73% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Reject asylum -'' '''27.27% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | |||
'' | |||
'''Union:'''<br> | |||
''Recognize asylum -'' '''69.5% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Reject asylum -'' '''30.5% of the votes'''<br> | |||
</div> | </div> | ||
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<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''One Seat Sits Empty'''<br> | ||
''Inse Jokuan, Foreign Affairs Report – Nova Times, a Novaros Division'' | |||
''Inse Jokuan, | |||
Good Sol, Explorers! | |||
Now that Ivona Craine is in Union space, her Council seat is up for grabs but no one has come forth and the Empire hasn’t volunteered anyone yet. This adds more questions than answers to her highly unlikely request. But while Ivona has her officially recognized asylum and is no doubt enjoying the same food as the others around her, I’ve got to talk about the advanced hull-plating tech that we lost out on. Word is, those in orbit around Mímir would’ve loved to have a little bit more insurance integrated into Federation hulls. More so now with the implications of the Oracle’s message. | |||
Ivona Craine, | Ivona Craine, who apparently can be believed, says that the Universal Council crew of The Arbiter is alive, but their end draws near. I’ve had the opportunity to interview captain Kal Haden before his ship was thought destroyed by the EB. He was gruff and curt and visibly annoyed that I was asking him questions at all. The aura around that man was palpable. Even though he’s an Imperial, I’d say there’s no one I’d rather have commanding a ship, but what do I know. | ||
In addition to the cryptic message brought to the Council by Ivona, a very faint anomalous signal has been detected coming from the EB near Mímir. I’ve been assured there is no cause for alarm yet since this signal is fainter than we have ever seen. While it is also stable, unlike previous signals, it has not affected the NEXUS network on a wide scale and is currently being studied by the Federation remnants of the MIEB Task Force. | |||
Never a dull moment on the edge of known space! | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''His Will is Set in Motion'''<br> | ||
''From the chambers of the Ministry of Knowledge'' | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
Once again, your wise vote both furthers His Grace’s plan and keeps a scientifically advanced defensive asset in Imperial hands. A lesser Faction would have pined for Ivona Craine’s return like some homesick dog mewling at the back of a cave, caked in mud and eyes dull with surrender. But not you. You saw through Ivona’s surface level attempt at running away from the Empire, and now we stand poised to reap the rewards of her exodus. No more proof of this is needed then in her carrying of the Oracle’s message, for who else can give it but His Excellency? | |||
The message was one of little value to the other factions. So now we know the crew of The Arbiter is alive but their end draws near. The ship is captained by a son of House Haden who has either proven his worth in surviving an EB’s accelerated entropy proving others might have as well, or has brought honor to his house in death. Whether this message is for us to believe or not is not for us to question. We must always steel our minds and invite scrutiny upon our actions. | |||
We now keep ships in permanent orbit around Mímir but the Minister of Security has returned home and brings reports of an anomalous signal. This new signal is fainter than we have ever scanned. Currently, it is stable and shows no signs of being anything more than a curiosity to study. If there is anything to be concerned with, our own scientists will not fail to recognize it. They understand that the Emperor will not miss any further opportunities or sit idle and watch another tragedy happen. | |||
Mathias Voden, | Mathias Voden, Minister | ||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
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<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''A New Home'''<br> | ||
''Vox Assembly, The Bastion'' | |||
It was never in doubt, my brothers and sisters. Ivona Craine is home and is welcome to what the Empire could never provide her, common ground with those around her. Faceless Emmet did most of the heavy lifting in orienting her to life in the Union, and she is currently helping the Vox on a number of issues. One in particular involves rumors of violence against one of our oldest tribes that I hope turn out to be false. | |||
The message given to the Universal Council from the Oracle is cryptic to say the least: the Universal Council crew of The Arbiter is alive but their end draws near. Sera Varse would be the one to speak to about this, but she has done a fine job in hiding her whereabouts within the Union. | |||
Word has reached us from our scientists whose work benefited the now struggling MIEB Task Force. They say a new anomalous signal, though fainter then we have ever scanned, has been detected around Mímir. They assure me the signal is currently stable and so faint, that the phenomenon is likely temporary. Leave to our best and brightest to keep grinding while the other Factions sit around and wait to see what happens. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
Mongrel Lars | |||
Mongrel Lars | |||
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= Capitolo 16.1: La calamita = | = Capitolo 16.1: La calamita = | ||
'' | ===Some Kind of Justice=== | ||
''Transgalactic report 26.1.513, Admiral Lyra Montaine, Universal Council'' | |||
Ivona Craine is now the purview of the Union, her asylum approved by the uniform voice of the Factions. The Universal Council wishes her well in this new chapter in her career–as our agents make sense of Ivona’s cryptic warnings around Mímir space, we of the Council will keep all of you apprised of future developments. | |||
The time has come to move onto other matters. Union Speaker Aish Fenix has brought an emergency situation to the attention of the Factions–it is the Universal Council’s purpose to report and adjudicate this tragedy. Here is her official address:<blockquote>Representatives on the Council, | |||
Faction citizens, subjects, members, | |||
I turn to you today not as Speaker of the Vox but as a daughter of Tribe Sunless. My people are proud laborers. We have worked the stone of a dozen asteroid belts across as many star systems, and have found beneath it precious metals that have served the interests of the Union, Federation, and Empire. No organized force is better than we are at this, no force more daring as we risk life and limb in the deep dark of space. | |||
Nine mining rings are at the center of the tribe’s culture and society. The smallest of these, Iron Chime, was attacked last night, countless of its inhabitants slaughtered. I will spare you the details–though there is ample video footage that can be viewed by those of you who have the stomach for it. The perpetrators attempted to hide their identities. They failed; they are butchers, after all. | |||
It’s the butchers of the Empire that came for my people. You hear me right–this is the work of an Imperial House, and the worst of them all: the Butchers of Plata, Neru-Gal. | |||
The daughter of the tribe in me wants to demand vengeance. And don’t get me wrong, the Union is more than capable of administering it on its own. Hells, Tribe Sunless is itching for a shot at the fuckers. But recent events have shown why we must overcome these baser instincts. Understand when I say this, my brothers and sisters in humanity–we must stop the cycle of violence and let justice prevail for the wounded and needlessly slaughtered people of my tribe. | |||
We turn to you in the hope that recent events have taught us to do better than the worst we’re capable of. Do not let this injustice stand.</blockquote>The Imperial representatives serving on this Council have corroborated Speaker Fenix’s statement. There is no question that the Iron Chime slaughter was perpetrated by warriors of the Imperial Neru-Gal House. Whether this attack was done in conjunction with the house’s leaders is not known at present. | |||
No rogue House may be allowed to operate at its whim, not when they would harm the peaceful members of another faction. This choice must be a show of the spirit of unity to which the factions have once more committed themselves. The choice before you is as follows: | |||
The Council’s resources can be made available towards providing humanitarian and economic aid to Tribe Sunless. Without this aid, the tribe will likely fail to meet its people’s needs and is threatened by dissolution in the hard times ahead. Meanwhile, House Neru-Gal will be investigated by Imperial authorities with what limited aid the UC can offer. Providing aid to Tribe Sunless would also allow them to fill in quotas of raw material for a new project helmed by the MIEB Task Force–that is no small incentive to keep in mind. | |||
A | Alternatively, the Council’s newly refocused resources can be used to punish House Neru-Gal. A punitive fleet may be sent to strike at this militaristic house. This, however, might be seen by many in the Empire as a continued policy of discrimination and curtailing of Imperial sovereignty in the face of galactic politics. | ||
The choice is in your hands. | |||
For further details, consult your faction story channel. | |||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''Peace of Mind''' | ||
''The Presidential Suites, Second Sector Capital (Avaris)'' | |||
'' | |||
Fellow citizens of the Federation, | |||
Our faction has no Styggian horse in this fight. We stand to benefit one way or another—the weakening of one of the Empire’s military houses is a boon in itself, and Neru-Gal may well be the worst of the lot. Their history of internal violence speaks loudly enough.To see that spill out of the Empire’s domain…it would be easier to sleep at night, knowing Neru-Gal is incapable of perpetrating similar attacks across Federation space. | |||
The Federation also stands to benefit if the choice is made to aid the injured Union party. If the UC’s projections are to be believed, we would see Tribe Sunless’s ore deliveries to megacorps such as TANUS Robotiks and Xaomeng Dynamics continue after only a short few weeks. Imperial relations are still on rocky ground after their accusations as to the Federation’s culpability in recent galactic events. Our government can hardly count on trade channels with House Aurelian and the Ministry of Wealth to make up the difference in raw materials necessary for some of our manufacturers. | |||
That said, this is the free market. If some corporation or another cannot make the best of the situation the faction finds itself in, they deserve to be liquidated and their executives harshly punished. | |||
The Federation could choose to address a potential threat or a certain supply chain issue: both stand to benefit the Federation. Both stand to have some negative impact–which each and every one of you will weather. Whatever your choice, it will offer at least some of the Federation’s citizens peace of mind. | |||
Whatever you pick–make your voices heard. | |||
Signed, | |||
President Áurea Adonis | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
'''A Nuanced View''' | |||
''Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, Minister Va-Halet.'' | |||
''From the office of the Minister of War'' | |||
Servants of the Empire, | |||
I am not surprised that the beasts of Neru-Gal have chosen now to strike. Their appetite has been whetted–like the rabid dogs they are, they have taken to snapping at the heels of their betters when the time is least opportune. Long before I took this post, I petitioned the Emperor to give me leave to dispose of these vile cultists who twist the Imperial Light, make a mockery of it. He is too fond of his pets; perhaps this incident will open his eyes to the necessity of putting Neru-Gal down once and for all. | |||
The Empire has little interest in making waves as we attempt to return from the brink of war. You will note that, unlike the Federation, the Empire is happy to admit when forces within it are culpable…and all too willing to punish them as befits the crime. It would be wise for the Universal Council to give me the mandate to lead a punitive expedition made of the joint forces of all three Factions against Neru-Gal. I will not stop at destroying a few military outposts, either–I will strike at the heart of their fiery world. Duty and honor demand as much. | |||
Pity the choice is not mine alone: my learned colleague, Mathias Voden, demanded, as his learned lot does, to “present a more nuanced view of the case”. I see no reason why anyone might need it, yet the old man has done me a service or two in the past. Here are his pretty, pretty words:<blockquote>While Hakon makes a fine case for violence (as he always does), it is worth considering that the Union’s nature might respond better to our standing behind their wounded tribe. The Union values compassion and we could choose to aid them by helping to make them whole. And with all that goes on, has there ever been a better time to offer a hand in camaraderie? This, too, will give the Ministry of Trust time to discover just who it was that directed the assault on Tribe Sunless within Neru-Gal. We can punish those directly responsible rather than the entirety of the house; and though I well understand Hakon’s disdain for Neru-Gal, they might be of use to the Empire still. | |||
Take that for what it’s worth, and make your voices heard, Imperials. | |||
- Warmaster Hakon Va-Halet</blockquote>Imperium superet astra. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''A True Leader''' | ||
''Vox Assembly, The Bastion'' | |||
Members of the Union, | |||
As you might have gathered, Aish has left the Bastion to direct emergency aid efforts at Iron Chime–and with Ivona Craine in tow, too. Craine wishes to pay off the risk the Union’s taken on her? I say she’s more than welcome to do so. | |||
The responsibility to communicate the latest from the heart of the Union falls to me. We face unexpected hardship following a turbulent period in our history. The decreased capabilities of Tribe Sunless are of concern to all–and so is the mere thought of those Neru-Gal butchers walking away without paying for this vile crime. | |||
There is no easy choice to be made here, and if you ask a pair of Vox representatives sitting on two ends of the table, you’re liable to get two very different responses. What I know is that Aish spoke true and from the heart even when it must have been the hardest for her to place anyone’s interests before her need for revenge. That is why the Vox picked right when we named her Common Speaker for the Vox. She is a true leader, one who will always pick the greater good of the people. | |||
But what is that greater good? Aish is wise in showing us that no one person can decide alone. This vote is about collectively choosing the answer to that question. What is justice? Punishing the wicked in one swift, decisive blow? Or prioritizing those who have suffered at their hands and easing their pain? Besides, Iron Chime might have been the smallest of the tribe’s ring outposts, but it housed a good third of the equipment necessary for the tribe’s mining operations. To go forwards without this…it spells trouble for Sunless. | |||
It is no easy vote, but freedom is best exercised in choices such as these. | |||
Faceless Emmett | |||
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'''Voting Results''' | |||
'''Open Hand, Closed Fist''' | |||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 29.1.513, Trice Chavos, Universal Council''<br> | ||
The final vote is in favor of aiding Tribe Sunless. The voice of the factions has been heard, and Faction vessels are already chock-full of supplies and personnel eager to help the reconstruction efforts. The Universal Council will provide all the material and humanitarian aid it can. | |||
Minister Hakon Va-Halet has temporarily taken a leave of absence to head the internal Imperial response to, and investigation into, Neru-Gal’s crimes. | |||
Provide Aid to Tribe Sunless - 3 (Empire, Federation, Union)<br> | |||
Punish House Neru-Gal - 0 () | Punish House Neru-Gal - 0 () | ||
''' | '''Empire:'''<br> | ||
''Provide aid to Tribe Sunless -'' '''67.95% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''Punish House Neru-Gal -'' '''32.05% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Federation:'''<br> | ||
''Provide aid to Tribe Sunless -'' '''68.44% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Punish House Neru-Gal -'' '''31.56% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Union:'''<br> | ||
''Provide aid to Tribe Sunless -'' '''70.14% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Punish House Neru-Gal -'' '''29.86% of the votes'''<br> | |||
Other relevant reports:<blockquote>Rumors of the MIEB Task Force's restructuring continue to dominate public discourse across the Federation. The Task Force's director, Dr. Barnhardt, has yet to comment on their veracity.</blockquote></div> | |||
= Capitolo 16.2: La calamita = | = Capitolo 16.2: La calamita = | ||
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=== '''Dopo questi risultati del voto.. ''' === | === '''Dopo questi risultati del voto.. ''' === | ||
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''' | '''No Half Measures''' | ||
''Dr. Helena Barnhardt, Chief of the MIEB Task-Force, Mimir Space'' | |||
The MIEB Task-Force’s investigation into the Einsen Bridge Tragedy is close to completion. There is ample reason to believe that while the erosion the ship suffered from is very much the effect of my deceased colleague’s miscalculation, the breakdown in communication with the FSS Skłodowska is the result of human error. | |||
The principles through which Dr. Takada’s veil technology operates are fascinating, I will give Dr. Takada this. It’s a question of salvaging the tech rather than reinventing it–as far as ship shielding is concerned. I won’t bore you with the science; save to say, there is much to be done yet before this technology is foolproof. Safety is paramount; we cannot have another tragedy on our hands. | |||
Mímir has all but served its scientific purpose. The task-force has measured and drawn up all the data we, at present, need. As such, I do believe it is time for a…relocation–at least for the majority of us; a quick-response unit is ready to assist in case Madam Ivona Craine’s oracular tip lies closer to the truth than I am comfortable with. With this relocation, too, comes a change in priorities, a change in this organization. I am not blind to criticism: the other factions grumble and decry the Federation’s overwhelming control. I believe I have come up with a solution. | |||
When next you hear from me, I will have enacted it–no half measures. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''A Guiding Hand''' | ||
''Warmaster Hakon Va-Halet'' | |||
I have not been given the Universal Council’s mandate to root House Neru-Gal from the infernal hole they call a home. Such disappointment to see some Imperials choose compassion over righteous punishment; perhaps some amount of ideological re-education is required. My authority in this investigation supersedes all others. It was a military house that acted with impunity–its censure is ultimately a military matter. | |||
Leads are being pursued, the Empire’s finest investigative minds asking the right questions with their boots at the necks of those of the Neru-Gal grunts who are not forthcoming enough. Meanwhile, I have invited the firstborn scions of the ten greatest and most powerful Neru-Gal families to join me in Solaris Regnum – they will have the great honor of receiving the finest Imperial education based on a curriculum prepared by myself and Old Man Voden. | |||
I do believe youths should be guided by the strong hand of Imperial law, don’t you? And if their lord-fathers and lady-mothers fail to rein in their loathsome little House…well, let us not think of such contingencies. | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
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''' | '''Numb''' | ||
''Aish Fenix, Speaker of the Vox'' | |||
''Aish Fenix, | |||
The support of each and every one among you in these trying times–personally, and for Tribe Sunless at large–keep many of us going when we might otherwise have recoiled from the task at hand. It’s hard going, I’m not ashamed to say. Nothing weak about it. | |||
This isn’t my first time dragging corpses from scenes of destruction and giving them to the cosmos. It’s never easy and it takes a toll, long after you’re supposed to move on. I should be happy that the Factions are sending aid, but the truth of it is, I’m numb. It’s like…I’m turning as cold as they are, only I’m alive to feel it. One sure-fire way of knowing you’re still human during times like these. That’s what I think, and you’re welcome to call me a fool for it. | |||
I hope the dead will find peace. | |||
As for the living? We’ll recover. Tribe Sunless folk always do, because we know the alternative ain’t pretty–the same as all the Union. We’ll recover and rebuild and prepare for the next catastrophe. We are one before the future. | |||
Now, more than ever… | |||
Heads held high. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
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= Capitolo 17.1: Babylon = | = Capitolo 17.1: Babylon = | ||
=== | ===The Dilemma of Opportunity=== | ||
''Transgalactic report 38.1.513, Trace Chavos, Universal Council''<br> | |||
''Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.'' | |||
''The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:'' | |||
…severe re-education methods are considered an internal Imperial matter and do not concern this Council. Thus the unanimous vote for support for Aish Fenix’s tribe has been honored. Already, the grit and resilience of Tribe Sunless is on display and puts a good bit of steel in all of our respective backs. | |||
.. | Moving on: Let it be known that Ivona Craine’s message from the Oracle was indeed authentic. The Arbiter reappeared last week after vanishing nearly fourteen months ago. The ship is in very bad shape and clearly beyond repair. | ||
I will yield now to Chief Engineer Stacey Deux, heading the recovery efforts to walk us through the particulars. | |||
Very much appreciated, Councilor Chavos. Initial scans of The Arbiter came back negative due to the ship’s proximity to the EB, which remains active but stable. | |||
If the Council will recall, the class-A Panopea actually hit the dead center of this EB and was destroyed. The interaction caused what we initially thought was a stabilizing of the EB, which was not necessarily false, but was a mischaracterization of the interaction. I will refer the Council to scientific reports if they wish to cross-check my team’s conclusion but a dead-center entry into the EB with a class-A Quantum core will be a very different event from a Quantum core meltdown on the extended edge of an EB. A Quantum wave event of some kind is not out of the question here. | |||
Luckily for humanity, an explosion on The Arbiter’s starboard side sent the ship drifting away from the EB. Scans continued to produce nothing until today, when a general hail was sent out from The Arbiter itself. | |||
We answered their hails. Sobbing and whispers, to screams and unintelligible demands came back over the comms. One voice, however, came through clearer than most, Captain Kal Haden’s. Clearly in the final stages of Quantum sickness, he has gone mad. | |||
From his repeated attempts at communicating with Universal Council ships nearby, we have one recording that comes as close to a coherent message as we can get: | |||
…it comes for us all, save the Emperor…(metal scraping against metal)..Death is what all of this is built upon. And what do they want? Data. | |||
(static)Have a repair ship in-bound within two days and inform Imperator Craine of my arrival. The Oracle must have spoken to him… | |||
( | If you attempt to deceive me, I will burn…systems to ash…step foot on…(static)...at which time you will know the fruits of your deceit. I will levy the grace of death upon you all. My Quantum core will herald your end…thank me for it. (ragged coughing) wings of death have…brought me… | ||
Further scans have since confirmed the surviving crew are suffering from advanced Quantum sickness. In forty-eight hours, The Arbiter will be far enough away from the EB for the projected Quantum Core meltdown to pose no threat of disrupting it. | |||
Thank you, Chief Engineer Deux, that will more than suffice. I will add that many MIEB Task Force and Council scientists believe the data archives and any Quantum core samples from the ship are critical to achieving EB travel. What I say next I do not say with ease. | |||
If we wait until The Arbiter is at a safe enough distance from the EB, it will allow for the full retrieval of all data and the chance to take core samples before the meltdown. Projections sadly show a one-hundred percent certainty that everyone on board will succumb to Quantum sickness and die. | |||
The alternative is to send a rescue team in now and save the surviving crew. Even with the finest medical care the UC can provide and regardless of what care we outsource to Faction facilities, some will die, but not all. However, the compromised Kal Haden will likely destroy the data and we risk him further destabilizing the Quantum core still within range of the Einsen Bridge. | |||
Time is of the essence. | |||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | |||
'''Setting the Record Straight'''<br> | |||
''Bron Benefore, Takeyon Reports LLC'' | ''Bron Benefore, Takeyon Reports LLC'' | ||
Good Sol, Explorers! | |||
Next up on the Bron Benefore Interviews - a frank conversation with the acting Vice President of Borealis Inc., Ryann Bashar! | |||
Bron: | Bron: Before we get right into it, I’d like to thank you for your time, Ms. Bashar. In regard to the vote, which way would Borealis Inc like to see it go? | ||
VP Bashar: Thank you, Bron. Hard choice on a tough issue. Borealis Inc. is a human-first company and we see ensuring the safety and well-being of those who eventually traverse the EB’s as our number one priority. Hard to do that without viable experimentation and research. | |||
Bron: | Bron: There are some high-profile corporations like Xeikil out there saying your previous experimentation efforts were ultimately fruitless. | ||
VP Bashar: No corporation undersells the progress it makes. No well-run one, at least. We have made more headwinds into Quantum-human interactions than any single entity out there in the market today, including Xeikil. We here at Borealis Inc. still believe that we provide the best chance for humanity to traverse the EBs successfully. Granted, we accept that our work involving Federation soldiers and volunteers for Quantum infusion experiments have not yet generated the total success we hoped for, but our efforts are certainly far from fruitless. | |||
Bron: | Bron: What’s your answer to those who say it won’t look good if Xeikil, Tonocom, or even the Union’s Gamayun labs are chosen to perform research on survivors over Borealis Inc? | ||
VP Bashar: The optics never look good to those who don’t or can’t understand what we are close to accomplishing. I believe if the opportunity arises, the market will prove we are right. No one understood this better than our Vice-President, Amanda Kaito. | |||
Bron: | Bron: On that note, what does Borealis Inc. have to say about Amanda Kaito’s recent communique? Why wasn’t her safety disclosed sooner? | ||
VP Bashar: I’m going to have to avoid getting into specifics here, Bron. Suffice it to say, the message was a fake and any further messages should be treated with the highest degree of skepticism.. | |||
Bron: | Bron: Do you blame House Glycon? | ||
VP Bashar: There are many Imperial houses who have and still do attempt clandestine operations against Federation corporations.I would like to think they are outliers as opposed to the norm, but this fact is a matter of public record. The coup certainly didn’t help them on the optics front and I understand the Imperials aren’t much for not looking perfect. | |||
Bron: I’m nearly finished here, Ms. Bashar. Do you mind clearing up your track record of successes and failures specifically with Quantum sickness research? | |||
VP Bashar: Quantum sickness is an incredibly complex and varied affliction. We’ve had a lot of iterative successes and opportunities to learn from some unfortunate hardships along the way. Experiments, performed as humanely as was prudent at the time, showed great promise, but here we are. The EBs are still functionally closed to us. The cutting edge isn’t an easy place to be. | |||
Bron: | Bron: And what if the vote swings to collecting data and core samples? | ||
VP Bashar: | VP Bashar: Proprietary research is what we are built upon. Research subjects provided through either volunteer campaigns or Federation soldier enhancement programs are what we generally like to see. This is also public record, but we gain no rights through technology research outsourced from the Universal Council and therefore do not regularly have active contracts with them on that front. | ||
Well there you have it, right from the corporation’s mouth. Takeyon LLC will continue to bring you the information you need to make the informed decisions that help the Federation stand head and shoulders above all the rest. | |||
Please be sure to place your vote in a timely fashion. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
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''' | '''We are Nothing Without Death'''<br> | ||
''From The Halls of Healing, Eden Thanatae'' | |||
'' | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
I am disheartened to hear that the terrible madness of Quantum sickness has taken hold of House Haden’s finest devotee, Kal. As House Charon-V are caretakers of the living and dead, so too are those in House Haden the heralds of death. Thus, I do not condemn the maddened words of Kal Haden. I will speak today not of our work in shepherding purity and honor in life, but of death and all it provides us. His Grace would not permit us to forget that any message inviting an honorable death is a message worth hearing. | |||
Doubt regarding this fact has the tendency to seep into the mind like an unwanted algae through the cracks of a tomb. Life is to be cherished, yes. But isn’t it strange that so many wish to ascend to a place of honor, yet they fear the path to get there? Know this, death is a part of Imperial life and is always welcome. | |||
Looking upon the decisions placed before us by the Universal Council, I am filled with a sense of longing for those suffering aboard The Arbiter. If we choose to wait and acquire what science deems necessary for EB travel, and all aboard are given over to the inevitable embrace of death, I welcome this sacrifice. If we choose to board the ship immediately and data is lost along with some of the brave souls who made it through and back again…I would advise against this outcome. | |||
The dead are honored by House Charon-V as much as the living, but my blood runs cold with the second choice placed before us. Beware the promises of Council physicians, Federation scientists, and Union body defilers who would consider a mindless husk to be a “survivor.” No human should be kept from death and suspended in agony while their flesh is subject to the invasive rigors of scientific experiment. Where is the honor in that? | |||
Much can be learned from the dead. Let them die. It would be a more dignified end to give the crew of The Arbiter peace, rather than let them suffer…forced to linger for as long as is humanly possible without their minds intact. If it were the decision of House Charon-V, the ship would be boarded, and the crew freed from their prison of madness via compassionate and immediate euthanization. | |||
If Kal Haden was whole again, even for a brief moment, oh what swift and pure and grand expulsion of life he would bring. But since he is not capable, your vote will hopefully bring him and his incurable crew the death they deserve. A death that claims only those who are in need of it. | |||
''Desdemon of House Charon-V, Healers of the Living, Wardens to the Dead'' | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
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''' | '''The Closed Fist of the Gamayun Speaks'''<br> | ||
''Members of the Union,'' | |||
Here we are again, aren’t we? And I’ve showered for this one, too, but only because those Universal Council pricks aren’t poking and prodding around, the way they were last time. Thought it’d be fun to do some poking of my own, with The Arbiter situation what it is. | |||
I’ll make this simple as can be so that even the thick-headed UC reps can get it: vote to get those people off The Arbiter and bring them to my lab on Gaea. The Gamayun has dealt with Quantum Sickness before and we’ve got a success rate at keeping patients with it alive. Remember Iza and Esau? Those weird little fuckers are probably skipping through the galaxy, singing pitch-perfect songs in that weird twin voice they so loved to speak in. Who got ‘em stabilized? Who kept ‘em outside of a seven by five coffin where the rest of their Twin Suns companions ended up? Hunter Yin, that’s who! And don’t ya know it, I just so happen to be him. | |||
I’m sure those witless Feds at Borealis are making a similar pitch somewhere–probably across board meetings with their one percenters. Only, if they have their way, they’ll rip every last bit of scientific data from that ship’s poor crew with no consideration for whether folk like Captain Haden will be able to get off the operating table. And don’t get me wrong, I don’t care anywhere near as much about the people as I do about the data the Gamayun can get for all the Union–but at least I’ll try to keep them alive. Most of the folks on that UC ship might be Imperial and covered with a stench of arrogance so strong it’d be making me tell you to stay as far away from them as possible, but they’ve got the Quantum sickness in ‘em, don’t they? And that means we can always hope it’ll cure the Imperial right out of their thick-headed…uh, heads. Stranger things have happened. | |||
So, that’s my piece. Or, y’know, show yourselves as heartless as the average Imperial and consign the poor Quantum-irradiated morons to death. See where that brings us all. | |||
Cheers, | |||
Hunter Yin | |||
Hunter Yin | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
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<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4 ; padding: 10px; border: 1px solid black; width:39%"> | <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4 ; padding: 10px; border: 1px solid black; width:39%"> | ||
''' | '''Voting Results''' | ||
'''Results of the Vote on the Fate of The Arbiter and its Crew.''' | |||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 41.1.513, Moire Craine, Universal Council''<br> | ||
' | The final vote is in favor of waiting for The Arbiter to clear the EB. The Universal Council's engineering team has since boarded The Arbiter and have reported our projections of mortality among the crew were correct. Transportation of the bodies to their homes in accordance with their Faction traditions is a priority for the Universal Council right now. Specifics on the state of the deceased crew will be shared in full after proper funeral rites have been observed...may their suffering be not in vein. | ||
' | The team reports that The Arbiter's data is in excellent condition considering its interaction with an EB not once but twice. Quantum core samples are being collected and the team will be safely away from the ship when meltdown is expected to occur. Initial findings will be made public in the following days. | ||
Wait for the opportune moment - 3 (Empire, Federation, Union)<br> | |||
We go for the crew - 0 () | |||
'' | '''Empire:'''<br> | ||
''Wait for the right moment -'' '''74.44% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''Extricate those left -'' '''25.56% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Federation:'''<br> | ||
''Wait for the right moment -'' '''66.11% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Extricate those left -'' '''33.89% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''' | '''Union:'''<br> | ||
''Wait for the right moment -'' '''66.49% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | ''Extricate those left -'' '''33.51% of the votes'''<br> | ||
'' | |||
</div> | </div> | ||
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=== '''Dopo questi risultati del voto.. ''' === | === '''Dopo questi risultati del voto.. ''' === | ||
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''' | '''A Moment for the Deceased'''<br> | ||
''Novum Group Special Report'' | |||
Good Sol, Explorers! | |||
In the days following the landslide vote to prioritize the collection of data and core samples from The Arbiter’s Quantum drive, the deceased arrived safely in Federation space surrounded by heavily armed escort vessels and a representative Council ship. Federation Officers who had not pre-authorized their body for research and posterity were sent to their home worlds’ funeral proceedings. Two officers were pre-authorized and therefore sent to facilities operated by Borealis Inc and Xeikil respectively. Representatives for Tonocom, VasTech, TANUS Robotiks, and Becker-Tanaka-Schmidt released statements in regard to their former employees acknowledging the deceased as heroes of the Federation. | |||
In response to a Gamayun Labs’ controversial application of the ambient Quantum inside the cells of the deceased Union crew members, Council representatives were also sent to ensure guidelines on Quantum disposal were strictly adhered to. Due to the comparatively long cremation time tables that were laid out, ceremonies commenced in two parts over three days. In one case, the deceased had previously requested their ashes be processed into a cremation crystal. As there is no legal precedent set for this unique and morally gray situation, the wishes of the deceased were honored. Unfortunately, the crystal has since been seen in Nexus channels at the center of a frenzied bidding war fueled by art collectors. It is being touted as the only crystal of its kind in the known universe. | |||
The deceased will not be forgotten, nor the opportunity they have created for so many. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''The Imperator’s Highest Honor'''<br> | ||
''From the Halls of Healing, Eden Thanatae'' | |||
Imperial subjects, | |||
The vote has yielded once again exactly what His Grace has foreseen. The crew of the Universal Council vessel, The Arbiter, returned to Imperial space nearly a week ago. After the bodies of Kal Haden, three officers, and two soldiers, arrived on Eden Thanatae, preparation of the honored dead commenced. A post of Imperial soldiers will stand as guards after plots to extract Quantum from the bodies of the honored dead have already been routed out and summarily crushed. | |||
Funeral costs fell to the families of the honored dead in accordance with death rites from time immemorial. Kal Haden of House Haden was honored with the Imperator’s Highest Light, ensuring the Empire will spare no expense in the addition of a tomb worthy of the former Death Bringer. Very soon, a procession of the honored dead will commence on the Night of the Veiled Moon. | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
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''' | '''We Always Find a Way…Our Way'''<br> | ||
''Vox Assembly, The Bastion'' | |||
'' | |||
Since our vote was placed to extract the data and take core samples from The Arbiter’s Quantum drive, much has happened. In long overdue accordance with our tribal funeral rites, our dead brothers and sisters are allowed to be honored and mourned for on the surface of Mimir. The Night Stars and Forlorn Brotherhood were accompanied by Clan SNTNL and granted special access to perform the rites and rituals each clan and tribe follow. A Universal Council and MIEB escort weren’t needed, but they followed our brothers and sisters down to the surface just the same. | |||
After rites were finished, the bodies were returned to Union space for the launching of their funeral pods to continue their journey into the great unknown. Word quickly got around that some soon-to-be-ostracized idiots were planning on intercepting the pods and stealing the bodies since they died from Quantum sickness. Since other geniuses are likely to have the same great idea, using traditional pods was out of the question. A few of the clans in mourning got together and fitted the funeral pods with stealth tech but power supply was an issue. Gamayun Labs, as they do, stepped up big and developed a way to harness a miniscule amount of Quantum infused into the bodies of the dead to fuel the stealth pods indefinitely. Nothing beats Union know-how. | |||
Heads held high | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
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= Capitolo 18.1: Equilibrio = | = Capitolo 18.1: Equilibrio = | ||
=== | ===Answers=== | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 50.1.513, Dr. Helena Barnhardt, Chief Scientist, Universal Council''<br> | ||
My team is hard at work unlocking the data extracted from The Arbiter’s core. This bounty promises to make the Task Force’s work easier by far, making the promise of EB travel a reality much sooner than it would otherwise be–but I am getting ahead of myself. | |||
Some weeks ago, I turned to my fellow Federation members with a pledge–to transform the MIEB Task Force into an organization beyond reproach. Too long has rhetoric based on factional divide slowed down this organization’s essential work. | |||
To that end, I have made the decision to incorporate the Task Force into the Universal Council. The representatives of each faction will serve as overseers of our work, each of them guaranteeing that the science we do is for the betterment of every individual across every Faction. While I continue to lead this Task Force, my focus must be on the science, not on the administrative decisions. I will also take on the role of guiding the Universal Council’s scientific endeavors outside our efforts to make EB travel a reality. | |||
To put a final stop to the endless speculation, I will also use this occasion to reveal to you the results of the report on the Irenic Einsen Bridge Tragedy. The mistake that led to the Tragedy was scientific in nature; Dr. Takada and her team made a miscalculation in the frequency to which they set their prototype shielding technology, the Veil. A minor error, a thousandth of a fraction, but look at the chaos it unleashed. | |||
The question of the FSS Skłodowska’s communications array is less politically convenient, I’m afraid. Federation investigators have looked into the movements of each and every individual onboard the ship. Most acted in accordance with the advanced behavioral models the investigatory body works with. The investigators combed through the biographies of those who did not, and found personal turmoil explained virtually all irregularities. One exception, however, was found: that of Communications Specialist Urdo Blir of the Union. | |||
Mr. Blir’s official records as part of the MIEB Task Force show no complaints or demerits of any kind. Yet security footage, backed up locally on security vessels over Mímir–and now available on the Nexus–shows behavior that is consistent with that of a drug addict. Enough of his remains survived the crash to permit chemical testing that has confirmed this theory. Here I must stress that both Union and Empire counterparts to these investigators have examined and authenticated our findings. | |||
While the condition of the ship itself deteriorated, the communications array should have been working some time before the vessel tore apart. Yet, it did not - because of human error. This failure in communications is what caught the original members of the Task Force unawares. If only a warning was sounded, at least the leadership might have been evacuated. | |||
The scale of the Irenic Einsen Bridge Tragedy could have been averted. If Dr. Takada had access to the readings from the FSS Skłodowska’s scientific instruments, perhaps…but there’s no point to living in the past. Asking “What if?” doesn’t pay. | |||
In | In the name of this renewed sense of cooperation the Universal Council has called for, the vote before us is as follows: We could demand of the Union to pay the Federation reparations for the shortcomings of one single individual, and the catastrophic consequences these shortcomings have brought about…Or we could choose to collectively move forwards and let bygones be bygones. | ||
For further details, consult your faction story channel. | |||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | |||
'''They Have Got To Pay'''<br> | |||
''Blagoi Shulka, Ignis Correspondent, Novum News'' | |||
I’m a straight shooter, folks, as straight as they come. You know I’d never bullshit you. Not me. So bend me your ear a minute and I’ll tell you what’s what. | |||
The Federation lost the most out of all Factions in the Irenic Einsen Bridge Tragedy. No one is asking that our friends at the Union forward the whole bill; all I’m saying is, it might help Fed-Union relations if they are held to the same standard we are. Have you seen how much corporations like Tonocom and Eve-N tech have been putting into the MIEB Task Force? Those fortunes, by the by, are nothing compared to what Hygeia Systems has had to pay in fines and compensation packages to the families of the deceased; their scientist, their mess. | |||
But now we know, it’s not just theirs, is it? And since the Union is so hot on collective responsibility, let its members show that in action. Let them put their money where their mouth is. Let’s see what offer they come up with; invite them to the table with a smile, but make one thing clear: | |||
They. Have. Got. To. Pay. | |||
I don’t know about you, but I take checks. | |||
Unless, of course, you think we ought to look the other way. Used to be an old Sol religion that required its members to “turn the other cheek”. Think the Federation should do that? Should I? Should you? | |||
Regardless…let’s see how this plays out, shall we? | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''Weeding Out the Weakness'''<br> | ||
''From the Chambers of the Imperial Ministry of Trust'' | |||
Nobility. Integrity. Honor. | |||
And most of all, discipline. If the Union had these in greater quantity, the Irenic Einsen Bridge Tragedy would have looked very different from what it is today. They like to remind us we are beasts in human form; yet, the Empire has shown it will turn no blind eye to injustice. We punish those who step beyond the Imperial will. How, you ask? | |||
When the Universal Council sent aid to Tribe Sunless, it was left to the Empire to discipline the errant sons and daughters of Neru-Gal. Even now, Minister Va-Halet continues the investigation into the guilty parties. Yet in the meanwhile, does he stand by and wait? No, for in his tactician’s wisdom, he knows that to strike first is to strike last. On Hakon’s order, the heirs of Neru-Gal’s most powerful families have continued their education not back home but on Solaris Regnum, where they receive the finest schooling in the Empire. And if the House errs once more–its young will pay for their elders’ weakness. Will the Union and Federation be able to do the same in the face of weakness? Will they weed it out? | |||
Enough. This is talk of yesterday. Today, the galaxy is reminded of the price paid by those who are capable for the weakness of those who are not. It may seem a dour day, but I say it is not. Instead, I say…Celebrate this day, Imperials, and embrace the future, for it will be informed by the ideals of the past. Such failure only feeds the fire of the Imperial Truth – it will one day purify the whole galaxy of weakness. | |||
Whether the Federation receives its filthy, filthy lucre, or does not–what matters that to ones such as us? | |||
We are Empire. We are supreme. | |||
Minister Venthe Etruscus, | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
'''Nothing More, Nothing Less'''<br> | |||
''Aboard the Bastion, the Vox Assembly'' | |||
My brothers and sisters, | |||
I return to you after weeks of work on salvaging what’s left of the Iron Chime ring. I’m tired. Exhausted. Somehow still grimy despite taking half a dozen showers between the last time I was on the ring and now; last thing I wanted is to deal with the Federation’s greedy attempts to draw blood from a stone. And after they voted to aid us, too–just like them to kick us in the ribs while offering a helping hand. | |||
But we must allow that it is not the choice of the many poor individuals who live on the edge, but the choice of their corporate overlords that has put this vote before us. Some in the Federation, then, want us to pay for the mistake of one individual. So much for personal responsibility. But is anyone here surprised that the Federation’s ideals take a backseat to their greed? Not me. Not any of you, either, judging by your faces. They want us to pay. They want us, even, to want to pay for the mistakes of Specialist Urdo Blir. | |||
I think you know what we want to say to that as well as I do, Union. | |||
But then, this could be the Fed testing the waters. Prodding to see whether we will give ground, and how we might do it. The Union rises above such petty behavior. We are better than this. So what should we do? | |||
Let it never be said we avoid collective responsibility. If the Universal Council votes that we pay their blood-soaked reparations, we will pay. As the voice of Tribe Sunless, I will give a personal guarantee as Speaker, right this very moment in case the vote goes through that our great collective must pay reparations. | |||
I guarantee that all my people’s yield over this galactic month standard will go to the Federation. The Federation will gain nothing less and nothing more–may the Universal Council make of this what they will. | |||
Aish | Aish | ||
| Line 2,992: | Line 2,881: | ||
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''' | '''Voting Results''' | ||
''' | '''Around the Corner''' | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 54.1.513, Moira Craine, Universal Council''<br> | ||
The final vote is in favor of the Union paying reparations. Many in the Federation have shared messages of thanks for the support shown by those who voted to hold the Union accountable for their error in judgment. The Factions can move on from the EB Tragedy knowing that justice has been upheld. | |||
The Union must pay reparations - '''3 (Empire, Federation, Union)'''<br> | |||
Let bygones be bygones - '''0 ()''' | |||
'''Empire:'''<br> | |||
''The Union must pay reparations -'' '''69.33% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''Let bygones be bygones -'' '''30.67% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''' | '''Federation:'''<br> | ||
''The Union must pay reparations -'' '''75.45% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Let bygones be bygones -'' '''24.55% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Union:'''<br> | ||
''The Union must pay reparations -'' '''64.86% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Let bygones be bygones -'' '''35.14% of the votes'''<br> | |||
</div> | |||
= Capitolo 18.2: Equilibrio = | |||
'' | === '''Dopo questi risultati del voto.. ''' === | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | |||
'''Goes to Show'''<br> | |||
''Jean Edwinn, Hygeia Systems, Office of Logistics'' | |||
The Union doesn’t like it too much, but they’ve been working closely with us ever since the vote results were announced. Logistics are being drawn in place to make sure the payment gets to Hygeia HQ as soon as every last bit of the ore yield of Tribe Sunless for the month has been accounted for. Hygeia management is working in close partnership with Council members to make certain none of those who are unhappy with our three-way decision will attempt to do anything. Meanwhile, I am told Hygeia is already feeling some of the financial pressure we’ve been under becoming a whole lot more bearable - might actually get to spend a few hours with my kids this week. | |||
As one of the non-scientific personnel, let me tell you, many of us were worried our livelihoods were in serious danger these past few months. The Union’s generous contribution has provided us with serious breathing room; and to think it might’ve been much different if we’d refused to help them when those Neru-Gal attacked Tribe Sunless. | |||
Goes to show– you help someone, they might just help you back when you need it most. | |||
</div></div> | |||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | |||
'''A Refreshing Show of Guts'''<br> | |||
''From the Imperial Chambers of Truth'' | |||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;"> | |||
''' | |||
'' | |||
Perhaps there is hope yet for the Union. Following the information on their Comms Specialist, they have taken responsibility for his mistake in what a ministerial colleague described to me as a “refreshing show of guts” from the Unionites. | |||
As you know, Imperial personnel are part of the relief effort aimed at clearing out the mess the Neru-Gal left behind on the Iron Chime ring. Since the Universal Council and the Union made their decisions, my agents report that those of Tribe Sunless who can work have taken to the task of mining high-yield asteroids. They have done so with an intensity that puts me in mind of the fanaticism of the very folk who attacked them. It bears underlining how much Tribe Sunless has been aided in this task by the Federation machinery and Imperial-grade safety measures given them as part of the humanitarian aid shipments the Council organized some weeks ago. | |||
The children are learning, aren’t they? I can barely contain my pride. We, with our traditions and our pride, must always be willing to guide our young neighbors towards the path of righteousness and truth… | |||
I | |||
Minister Venthe Etruscus<br> | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''Owning Up'''<br> | ||
''My Brothers and Sisters,'' | |||
The vote has given us no space to doubt the will of the people: the community holds responsibility for an individual’s actions. We’ll own up to it: Tribe Sunless, strengthened by the Universal Council’s aid, is hard at work already. The yields of our mining operations are reaching higher levels than they ever have, given the new equipment we received from the Council. When the month comes to an end, all that raw ore will have safely made it onto Federation space, handed over to Hygeia Systems, who have so far suffered the brunt of responsibility for the Einsen Bridge Tragedy. We will pay what is owed and clear the way for a better tomorrow. | |||
I do not believe this choice was the right one. That many in the Union voted for it shocks me–which serves to prove I have much to learn of the decisions that define our collective self. | |||
No leader is perfect. I’m certainly not. | |||
Heads held high, | |||
Aish. | Aish. | ||
| Line 3,076: | Line 2,952: | ||
= Capitolo 19.1: Guadagni illeciti = | = Capitolo 19.1: Guadagni illeciti = | ||
=== | ===Posterity’s Price=== | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 63.1.513, Dr. Helena Barnhardt, Chief Scientist, Universal Council''<br> | ||
''The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:'' | |||
…more than enough to ensure basic bioscan stations for Quantum related work. I have to bite my damned tongue every time we go back over this blasted issue. | |||
... | Moving on. The extremely valuable data collected from The Arbiter went immediately for analysis. Before long, however, MIEB scientists concluded that outsourcing R&D would yield the most innovative thinking at speed. Within less than a day, an open application garnered an impressive list of trusted candidates. | ||
The first R&D lab to present tangible evidence of any Quantum-based Einsen Bridge breakthrough will be awarded an exceptional Quantum budget. This is meant to replenish any material used in experimentation and to drive development through to a viable prototype. Physical storage devices sent by Council courier were dispatched to a number of short-listed R&D labs, the largest of which were Xaomeng Dynamics, House Voden, and Saruken XII. | |||
Some in the Federation questioned our decision to avoid using the Nexus to transmit The Arbiter’s data. The Nexus has been functionally sub-optimal since the Quantum Shockwave event, which has led to a precipitous increase in Nexus Diver interference. | |||
In spite of our explicit warnings, it was used anyway. | |||
An employee at Xaomeng Dynamics was contacted by someone from a smaller Federation R&D lab. In an apparent attempt to see if data was shared equally between them, the exchange was immediately attacked by a host of well-organized Nexus Divers. Xaomeng Dynamics’ anti-Diver protocols are robust, which we assume is why the employee thought himself and his accomplice protected. They were not. | |||
The trail from the breach went cold until we were contacted by Dr. Alannah Simoff. Yes, that Dr. Simoff, VasTech’s former Chief of R&D. She has since put her substantial skills into a newly formed and independent R&D start-up called Conductivity-12, and claims to have made a breakthrough in Quantum-based exosuit technology. | |||
She has requested to receive the UC’s Quantum budget despite Conductivity-12’s application being previously denied. | |||
Dr. Simoff said she had no knowledge the data in question was of an illicit nature. She added: | |||
>It’s certainly not standard policy, but any lab worth its salt performs a Nexus sweep from time to time for an innovative idea here and there. The data was available. I took the opportunity, I’m being forthright, and I made a hell of a breakthrough with it. Not ideal with the way my source wants me to pay, but posterity prevails. | |||
She plans to convert a portion of the Quantum budget for payment to her “source.” To her credit, she insisted a clocked-Nexus node be used. This guarantees the data in question is the only copy in existence on the Nexus until the payment deadline in two days. We considered Divers as an option but the very nature of a node puts it outside the main Nexus network. Unless Dr. Simoff pays up, the data reverts back to the “source” and will be sold to other “interested parties.” | |||
Thus, the vote placed before this Council is as follows: We grant the UC Quantum budget to Conductivity-12 for experimental Quantum-based exosuit tech now, but risk more directed attempts to extort the Council…Or we grant the UC Quantum budget to approved R&D labs for varying levels of development on a longer timeline, but risk the “source” selling the data and sparking an illegal Quantum R&D race on a scale not seen since the Quantum Wars. | |||
For further details, consult your faction story channel. | |||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | |||
'''An Icon’s Insight'''<br> | |||
''Bron Benefore, Takeyon Reports LLC'' | ''Bron Benefore, Takeyon Reports LLC'' | ||
Good Sol, Explorers! | |||
Building on Bron Benefore’s wildly popular and hard-hitting Interviews - next is a one-on-one with Sector-2 President, Victor Huxley! | |||
Bron: | Bron: Before we jump into things here, I have to say it’s an honor, Mr. Huxley. | ||
Huxley: | Huxley: You don’t pull any punches, Bron. I like that. | ||
Bron: | Bron: Thank you, sir. So, the people want to know, are you for succumbing to extortion or sparking off the next Quantum War? | ||
Huxley: | Huxley: I don’t make it my job to alter or change the framing of issues put forth by the Universal Council. In this case though, it really does need to be framed better. Especially when you consider we are talking about Dr. Alannah Simoff. Life across Federation space would look quite different without the number of innovations that have come directly from her work. | ||
Bron: | Bron: She spoke of a major breakthrough. Can you give us any insight? | ||
Huxley: | Huxley: I took the liberty of calling her after the Council’s announcement and she was particularly excited about her work. She would’ve killed me for saying anything years ago but she’s been working on prototype exosuits for the last twenty years. I wasn’t surprised to hear she was continuing her work at Conductivity-12. | ||
Bron: | Bron: Is it a legit breakthrough? Are there shoulder canons involved? | ||
Huxley. Haha. | Huxley. Haha. Well, in expanding VasTech’s corporate presence and influence across Faction space before I assumed the mantle of president, I think I can say I understand something about significant breakthroughs. This is certainly one of them. | ||
Bron: | Bron: As a councilmember for the Federation, some say your relationship with her might be a cause for concern. This is something I understand has followed you through your whole career. | ||
Huxley: | Huxley: We have had an amazing professional relationship. She taught me so much of what I know today. She is no longer the Chief of R&D at VasTech and I am no longer its COO. I admit I haven’t stopped by Conductivity-12’s lab yet. My brother currently sits at the head of VasTech and my lawyers warned me the optics would scream conflict of interest. Blood-sucking lawyers, mind you. | ||
Bron: | Bron: Is that a bridge that would be better burned going forward? | ||
Huxley: | Huxley: If you start burning bridges for reasons that aren’t your own, you’ll be left with none to cross and trapped where you stand. The claim that there is a conflict of interest here is a non-issue. I’ll leave it at that. | ||
Bron: | Bron: I see we are running out of time. Any last words for Federation citizens out there trying to make an informed vote? | ||
Huxley: | Huxley: Dr. Simoff’s start-up exemplifies what any Federation citizen would do if put in the same situation. She took every opportunity and leveraged it to her advantage. I’ll leave you with this question: What if it was her idea to employ a clocked-Nexus node? What if when she completes the transaction, the client is unable to stop the complete and total transfer of the data from them to her? | ||
Well there you have it! Certainly food for thought from the man about the woman behind the man. Takeyon LLC will continue to bring you the information you need to make informed decisions. | |||
Get your vote out there, Explorers! | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''There is Only One Path'''<br> | ||
''From the chambers of the Imperial Ministry of Trust.'' | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
I do not envy the poor few who have their votes set on the path of the dullard, seeking solace in another Faction’s plight. I warn you now, seek the will of the Emperor and not to aid an old witch’s inglorious plot to boost quarterly earnings. | |||
That’s what this vote is, make no mistake about it. Alannah Simoff, this seller of ideas that serve no one but herself. She has lived a life detached from the reason of a strong guiding hand, honorless in her pursuit of personal gain. Her and Huxley have both shared in this, and many other unmentionable affairs. If she was such a great researcher or developer, why does she work for herself now, in a lab no one considers relevant? The answer is: It is not for you to ponder. Do not forget that the grace of the Emperor shines not for a Federation citizen. | |||
I speak with a just and terrible intolerance for the dirty and low-minded chattel that might consider for even a moment voting for this excuse of a scientist. I have wondered out loud to the Minister of Security if we can cross-reference those fools who voted against House Galateo during the 33rd Conference with any who vote against the Empire this time. Isn’t it better to allow His Grace’s own selection of Imperial scientific excellence, House Voden, to win the exceptional Quantum budget? My ministerial colleague’s House will be victorious over any of the rabble on the UC’s short-list. | |||
I would personally place the vote on behalf of the entire Empire if I could, but I am forced to watch this exhausting dance of free-will. Bah, what free-will we all have belongs rightfully with the Emperor, and no other. | |||
May the wisdom of Imperator Craine grace your vote, Imperials. | |||
Minister Venthe Etruscus | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''We Don’t Repeat the Mistakes of the Past'''<br> | ||
''Aboard the Bastion, the Vox Assembly'' | |||
'' | |||
My brothers and sisters, | |||
I don’t believe the Universal Council would invoke the specter of the Quantum Wars without good reason. But everything we needed to learn from it, we did. That was five-hundred years ago. The Universal Council has done enough to prevent humanity from tearing itself apart for that long, so looking backwards does little to help us going forward. | |||
I say give the R&D labs the time to develop solid, reliable tech we can count on. Accountability comes with this choice and we have more than enough to spare. Whether the Empire and Federation are just as accountable this week from the next, I have my doubts. | |||
With that in mind, let’s get to Dr. Simoff’s offer: Give her everything she wants and no trouble will come to anyone…It sure as hell sounds like a threat to me. Granted, she’s a legend in R&D, but she’s Federation through and through. She’s thinking about the here and now. She’s thinking only about herself. I’m remembering all the weapons she designed to kill our brothers and sisters from X-36 Co-Operative so many years ago. Though they repurposed those weapons and did some killing of their own, there might not have been any killing at the scale there was if not for her. | |||
We need to give good Union tribes and clans like Saruken XII the chance to show the Union has the know-how to make EB travel possible. Imagining the other Factions having to thank the Union everytime they travel through an Einsen-Bridge should put a smile on everyone’s face. I’d like to knock the one off Dr. Simoff’s. | |||
Choose Union values for the future and we all win. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
Aish Fenix | Aish Fenix | ||
| Line 3,199: | Line 3,067: | ||
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''' | '''Voting Results''' | ||
''' | '''Results of the Vote on the UC Quantum budget''' | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 66.1.513, Moire Craine, Universal Council''<br> | ||
The final vote is in favor of granting the UC Quantum budget to approved R&D labs. A proposal for a proof of concept “Modular Quantum Reactor” was submitted by Xaomeng Dynamics. Other R&D labs continue to submit designs of varying viability, but XD’s is thus far the earliest and most promising. Time will tell if their design proceeds to a viable prototype. If so, it would be the first time in human history a Quantum reactor has been scaled down and modularized while effectively harnessing Quantum’s incredible energy potential. | |||
Grant to Conductivity-12 - '''1 (Empire)''' | |||
Grant to approved R&D labs - '''2 (Federation, Union)''' | |||
'''Empire:''' | '''Empire:'''<br> | ||
''Honor Conductivity-12’s claim -'' '''61.36% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''Honor approved R&D labs -'' '''38.64% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Federation:'''<br> | ||
''Award Conductivity-12 -'' '''49.15% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Award approved R&D labs -'' '''50.85% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Union:'''<br> | ||
''We are with Conductivity-12 -'' '''43.95% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''We are with approved R&D labs -'' '''56.05% of the votes'''<br> | |||
</div> | |||
= Capitolo 19.2: Guadagni illeciti = | |||
=== '''Dopo questi risultati del voto.. ''' === | |||
=== '''Dopo questi risultati del voto.. ''' === | |||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''Democratic Competition at its Finest'''<br> | ||
''Novum Group Special Report'' | |||
Good Sol, Explorers! | |||
In the days following the extremely close vote for granting the UC Quantum budget, Xaomeng Dynamics’ proposal for a proof of concept “Modular Quantum Reactor” has been followed by a number of other innovative designs. Some of these designs have surprised even the MIEB scientists overseeing submissions. House Voden has made a strong case for winning the budget with their Quantum core warp drive shielding. They are calling it “Virtual Kill Vector” or VKV shielding. Most of the MIEB scientists expected a derived version of resistive hull plating that was offered for use in the earlier EB probe design program. Submissions dropped to almost nothing after House Voden’s strong showing until Saruken XII submitted designs that were…rough by normal standards. However, the potential in an entirely new class of star-ship with raw Quantum worked directly into the main body of the ship is there for anyone to see. Very reminiscent of so many defunct Quantum artifact fragments found during Quantum mining operations throughout Core space. As is the Union’s prerogative, support for the design has been greenlit by the Vox and building is already underway. | |||
The Universal Council has turned its attention to commissioning a new special response team to conduct elite tactical operations to rapidly respond to illicit EB Quantum research. Their requests for a team of the Federation's most capable investigators and enforcement officers was met with enthusiasm. Five highly driven and motivated candidates were sent. Concerns were raised about this move signaling a shift in the neutral role of the Universal Council. Sector Presidents were reassured the Council is neutral with concern to inter-factional relations, except with regard to the strict regulation of Quantum throughout Core space. | |||
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''' | '''His Wisdom Prevails Regardless'''<br> | ||
''From the Ministry of Trust'' | |||
Following the unexpected Imperial vote, the wisdom of the Imperator was victorious nonetheless. The UC Quantum budget was granted to approved R&D labs. Xaomeng Dynamics’ proposal was followed by a number of other designs that were by no means worth consideration. However, some among the MIEB scientists overseeing submissions are easily impressed. House Voden made the strongest case for winning the budget with their Quantum core warp drive shielding. We have named it “Virtual Kill Vector” or VKV shielding. His Grace’s wisdom and intellect accentuate every design nuance of this breakthrough design. Submissions understandably dropped to almost nothing after House Voden’s strong showing. A last-minute clunky submission by Saruken XII brought the entries to a close. They have planned a new class of star-ship with raw Quantum worked directly into the main body of the ship. A poor attempt at copying the defunct Quantum artifact fragments found during Quantum mining. The Union is underway collectively mismatching junk parts for their seminal EB build. | |||
The Universal Council seeks to commission a special response team to conduct elite tactical operations and rapidly respond to the EB Quantum research Dr. Simoff has sullied Imperial concerns with. The Universal Council stated their role as a neutral body in inter-factional relations is unchanged, except with regard to the strict regulation of Quantum throughout Core space. His Grace’s silence on the proclamation prevented any public resentment many of the Houses harbor for the UC…for now. Honorable selections from Houses Praetor, Haden, Va-Halet, and one redemptive selection from House Neru-Gal arrived on Station Ignis without incident. | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
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<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''A Rising Tide Lifts All Ships'''<br> | ||
''Vox Assembly, The Bastion'' | |||
In the days following the extremely close vote for granting the UC Quantum budget, Xaomeng Dynamics’ proposal for a proof of concept “Modular Quantum Reactor” has been followed by a number of other innovative designs. House Voden made an overbearing and largely unimaginative case for winning the budget with their Quantum core warp drive shielding. They are calling it “Virtual Kill Vector”' or VKV shielding. Brothers and sisters throughout Union space expected a derived version of resistive hull plating that was offered for use in the earlier EB probe design program. We were not far off. Submissions dropped to almost nothing after House Voden’s pushy showing until Saruken XII kicked open the doors and let the junkyard mutts in. They submitted designs for an entirely new class of star-ship with raw Quantum skillfully worked directly into the main body of the ship. Very reminiscent of so many defunct Quantum artifact fragments found during Quantum mining operations. Support for the design has met near-universal support by the Vox and construction is well underway. The designs provided to the UC were enough to show the potential of this build. | |||
The Universal Council put out a notice they are throwing together a new special response team to conduct elite tactical operations and rapidly respond to the shitload of illegal EB Quantum research that is coming. The Universal Council repeated they stand strong with the Union and the other factions as a neutral body, except when it comes to the regulation of Quantum throughout Core space. Fine. Five capable brothers and sisters were sent from Clan Golden Eclipse, Clan SNTNLS, and Tribe Sunless. They arrived at Station Ignis hungover but ready for the hunt. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
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