Kwento ng Season 2

Kabanata 1: Pagbabago

Nag-aalok ang mga Pinuno ng Paksyon ng Mga Solusyon sa Gitna ng Patuloy na Kaguluhang Sibil

Transgalaktikong ulat 78.6.512, Pandaigdigang Konseho

Ang dating itinuturing na isang pambihirang okasyon ay nagiging pangkaraniwang pangyayari na ngayon: Ang lahat ng tatlong paksyon ay kumikilos nang masusing hakbang habang inilalabas nila ang kanilang sarili, hindi pa nagagawang mga programa sa reporma. Ito, siyempre, ay bilang tugon sa panahon ng "Einsen Bridge" (o EB's). Ito ang pangalang ibinigay sa mga anomalya sa oras ng kalawakan na malawak na kinikilala bilang mga katalista sa bagong panahon na ating kinalalagyan.

Sa kabila ng lumalaganap, hindi makatwirang tsismis, walang nakakaalam kung ang mga EB ay nagbabanta o nag-aalok ng mga benepisyo. Ang kawalan ng katiyakan ay nagdulot ng panatismo, kaguluhang sibil, at panaka-nakang isterya sa lahat ng mga planeta at sistema ng planeta. Kaya, sa pagsisikap na pakalmahin ang kanilang mga mamamayan pati na rin suportahan ang pananaliksik at pag-aaral ng mga EB, inihayag ng Imperyo, Pederasyon, at Unyon, sa loob ng ilang araw ng bawat isa, ang mga plano sa repormasyon ay nabuo sa pinakamataas na antas ng bawat namamahalang lupon. Wala na ngayong magagawa kundi isagawa ang kanilang mga istratehiya, kumilos, at umasang mag-ugat ang pagpapanibago ng kapayapaan.

Federation Storyline

Isang Nag-aatubili na Bagong Panahon na Walang may Gusto. Unang Bahagi

Aisden Riley, Core Systems Editor Op-Ed – Novarim, a Novaros division Ang mga ito ay sariwa pa sa ating alaala ngunit sapat na upang maging kasaysayan. Ang mga anomalya sa espasyo-oras na kilala bilang Einsen Bridges ay nangyanig sa lahat ng bawat may buhay dito. Nabubuhay tayo sa bagong panahon. Naghihintay sa mga pagtuklas at kaguluhan.

Walang may gusto nito.

Ang buhay ay magiliw na tinatamasa ng karamihan sa mga mamamayan ng Pederasyon bago ang lahat ng ito. Ang paglago at posisyon ay naroon para tamasahin ng lahat, simple man o advanced. Ang kasaganaan ay tinamasa sa pinakamahabang panahon. Isa iyong magandang buhay. Malugod nila itong tinanggap. Ngayon, pero ay magpakailanman ng magiging kasaysayan.

Mula nang mawala ang ating solar system, na inaalala bilang kapitapitagan, hindi pa tayo nakaranas ng ganitong pagkagambala.

Ang bawat paksyon ay nagtiis sa kanilang bahagi ng pakikipagsapalaran. Nagkaroon ng access ang Unyon sa The Cradle, ang inaasahang susi sa mga misteryo ng Einsen Bridge, na mawawala din lang ang pag-access na iyon para sa ating lahat. At ang Imperyo. Oh... ang Imperyo. Nabagabag sa isang kagulat-gulat ngunit nabigong kudeta, ang matagal na, lipas na pampulitikang leviathan na ito ngayon ay itinatanggi ang malinaw at halatang pangyayaring ito. Tila ang diskarte ng emperador ay iwaksi ang kanyang mga problema. Sa palagay ko hindi ito ganap na katawa-tawa. Para sa marami, ang pagkagambala ay sinasalubong ng pagtanggi.

Para sa iba, ito ay binibigyan ng tugon. Maaari bang humantong sa diplomatikong pagsulong ang "Code of Ethics" ng Unyon? Pupwede. Mapapangalagaan ba ng boluntaryong nagbubulag-bulagang Imperyal Ministry ng Imperyo ang kaayusan? Hindi sa palagay ko, ngunit nabubuhay tayo sa walang katiyakan. Walang sinuman ang makapagsasabi nang kung kaninong plano ng pag-atake ang mananaig. Para sa pangkat na ito, ginagawa ng Pederasyon kung ano ang pinakamahusay na ginagawa nito: lumiliko sa pamamagitan ng mga kontradiksyon upang makapagbigay ng solusyon. Half wonder, half idiocy. Minsan sa ikakasaman, sa ibang pagkakataon ay para sa tagumpay.

Isang Nag-aatubili na Bagong Panahon na Walang may Gusto. Pangalawang Bahagi

Anuman ang kahihinatnan, alam na natin ngayon na ito ay para sa reporma sa regulasyon. Ang mga kontrata ng gobyerno ay ibibigay ng mga bagong komite tulad ng Departamento ng Intelektwal, ang Galactic Defense Commission, ang Planetary Security Order, at iba pa. Madami pang iba. Huwag mag-alala, hindi nagbago ang lahat. Ang nagsasalisihang mga ambisyon ng mga bagong komiteng ito ay isasagawa ng pinakamahuhusay na megacorporations ng Pederasyon, at siyempre, ang pagpili ng megacorps ay napupunta sa atin, sa pamamagitan ng demokrasya. Isang mekanismo ng paggawa ng desisyon na halos kasing lipas ng imperyal na propaganda ng Imperyo. Sa totoo lang, ipinakita ng dalawa ang kanilang kaugnayan sa pagtanda bago lumitaw ang mga EB.

Siguro kailangan natin ng pagbabago.

Ang mga bagong regulatory committee ba na ito ang magiging sagot sa ating mga problema? Magiging mas mahusay ba tayo para dito kaysa sa isang Code of Ethics o self-neutered Imperial Ministry? Malamang. May isa pa kayang mas magandang paraan? Maaari. Sa lalong madaling panahon ito ay magiging sariwang alaala at maitatatag na lamang bilang kasaysayan. Pagka dumating, saka lang natin malalaman.

Mga Bagong Binuo na Taga-Kontrol na Lupon Upang Mabawasan ang mga Kaguluhan, Mga Panawagan sa Karahasan

Eiron Tehmil, Politikal na Tagasulat, Ang Edison Bilang tugon sa laganap na mga teorya ng pagsasabwatan at hindi napatunayang mga ulat sa likod ng paglitaw ng Einsen Bridges, pati na rin ang buong resulta ng pagkawala at muling paglitaw ng planetary system, ang Federal Presidential Council ay sa wakas naglunsad ng kanilang plano upang sugpuin ang mga marahas na pag-aalsa at sibil na hindi pagkakasundo sa loob ng espasyo ng Pederasyon. Ang plano, na opisyal na tinatawag na Regulatory Einsen Bridge Exploration Acceleration Task plan (o REBEAT), ay higit sa lahat na nakasentro sa pagbuo ng mga bagong regulatory committee, bawat isa ay binubuo ng mga kontrata ng gobyerno para sa iba't ibang sektor ng merkado, kabilang ang mga foreign at domestic intelligence services, at makasaysayang pag-archive. ng chain-verify na data.

"Ang plano ng REBEAT ay higit pa sa pamamahagi ng mga pondo, isinasaayos nito ang ating mahusay na Pederasyon para kayanin ang mga hindi inaasahang hamon na naghihintay sa hinaharap." deklara ng 2nd Sector President, Aurea Adonis.

Sa kanyang talumpati, inulit niya ang kahalagahang magaganap sa espesyal na halalan para matukoy ang mga iba’t ibang entidad na tatanggap ng mga napakahalagang kasunduan para sa gobyerno. Ang unang iginawad ay mula sa bagong nabuong Federal Department of Intelligence. Ang regulatory committee na ito, na inendorso ng Federal Presidential Alliance, na nananawagan sa lahat ng explorer ng Pedearasyon na bumoto para sa isa sa dalawang kwalipikadong intelligence at communications syndicates: OTK Communications at Sonar Electronics.

Ang OTK ay kilala sa kanilang mga kahanga-hangang diplomatikong koneksyon at maimpluwensyang pakikilahok sa mga interstellar affairs. Gayunpaman, marami ang nagpahayag ng pag-aalala tungkol sa kung paano ito nagreresulta sa napakaraming mga dependency at isang mabigat na burukratikong supply chain. Ang Sonar Electronics sa kabilang banda ay tila walang problema sa pagkumpleto ng kanilang mga layunin, anuman ang diplomatikong kalagayan. Ang pagpupursige ay isang pangunahing prinsipyo ng kanilang mga pangunahing pinuno, ngunit napapansin ng mga katunggali nito ang mga pagkakataon kung saan sinusubukan ng mga prospect na iwasan ang agresibong organisasyon, na binabanggit ang madistansyang mga pakikitungo nito ng nakaraan.

Alinman ang mapili niyo, siguraduhing gamitin ang inyong karapatang bumoto.

Sino ang dapat tumanggap ng mga kontrata ng pamahalaan ng intelihensiya?

Ang OTK Comms na diplomatikong konektado ngunit medyo dumedepende.

Ang Sonar Electronics na matiyaga ngunit medyo mapanlaban.

Empire Storyline

Isang Mensahe mula sa Kanyang Kamahalan Ang Imperator

Sa pamamagitan ng biyaya ng Kanyang Kamahalan Ang Imperator, Nomoro Hiyaku, Sambahayan ng Glycon. Luwalhati sa Imperyo.

Magkasama tayo, sa araw na ito sa pagbabalik-tanaw. Tayo ang iilan lang na may pribilehiyo sa kasaysayan ng sangkatauhan upang maging saksi sa mga kaganapang anomalya ng kung ano ang naging kilala bilang Einsen Bridges. Hindi pa tayo nabubuhay sa dakilang panahon na tulad nito. Ang ganitong sandali ay nangangailangan ng pambihira, at bilang iyong bagong Tinig ng Katotohanan, ipinapahayag ko sa inyo:

Nanawagan ang Imperator para sa pagbuo ng isang Ministeryo ng Imeryal. Ang pagbuo na ito ay magsisimula kaagad sa pagpili ng mga Pinuno ng Ministeryo.

Ang ating kaharian ay patuloy na lumalago sa lakas, simula pa nang dakilang mabuo ito. Ang pagbabago ay walang pagbubukod sa direksyong ito. Ito ang magmamarka ng isang bagong panahon at kasama nito ang mga bagong hamon. Ang mga hamong ito ay matutugunan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapakita ng Ministeryo ng Imperyal ng Kanyang Kamahalan. Isang ministeryo upang pamahalaan ang iba't ibang awtoridad ng karangalan, pakikipagtulungan sa ibang bansa at loka, seguridad, kalusugan, kayamanan, at kaalaman.

Ang mga awtoridad na ito ay pangungunahan ng mga piling Pinuno ng Ministri. Ang una sa mga pagpipiliang ito ay mula sa Sambahayan ng Lycanis. Dahil sa dayuhang histerya, na nagmumula sa makasaysayang pagkagambala, at salungat sa masasamang tsismis, walang banta ang umabot sa buhay ng ating dakilang soberano, ni hindi magagawa. Samakatuwid, hindi kailanman maaaring maging partido ang Sambahayan ng Lycanis sa naturang banta. Kilala ng lahat na karapat-dapat sa kredito ang Lycanis para sa kanilang lubos na katapatan sa Imperyo. Ang pagpili ng Ministro ng Dangal ng Sambahayan ng Lycanis ay iaanunsyo sa nakatakdang panahon. Ang karagdagang mga pagpipilian ng iba pang mga ministeryo ay susunod sa katulad na ritmo. Pakinggan ang mga salita ng Imperator habang patuloy tayong lumalago sa lakas at kahalagahan. Ang aming kamakailang pamumuno sa mga pagsisikap sa pagsasaliksik ng interfaction tungkol sa agham ng Einsen Bridges ay isang pagpapakita ng paglago na ito. Isang bagong araw ang sumisikat. Hayaan itong maging may karangalan. Lalagpasan ng Imperyo ang mga bituin.. Ang Pagbuo ng Ministro ng Karangalan

Sa pamamagitan ng biyaya ng Kanyang Kamahalan Ang Imperator, Sambahayan ng Glycon. Pagbati at kaluwalhatian sa Imperyo. Napakalaking pribilehiyo na ipahayag ng Sambahayan ng Glycon ang pinagmulan at pagpapatupad ng Ministeryo ng Karangalan ng Imperyo. Ang Ministeryo na ito ay may tungkuling humawak ng awtoridad sa mga usapin ng batas, katapatan, at kaayusan alinsunod sa Kanyang Pangunahing Dinastiya, si Imperator Solas. Ang prestihiyosong delegasyon na ito ang una sa anim na ministeryo na bubuuin upang tulungan ang patuloy na pagkumpirma ng Senado ng Imperial sa pangingibabaw sa kalawakan. Ang araw na ito ay walang pinagkaiba sa mga dating maanomalyang kaganapan sa Einsen Bridge. Ang ating dakilang Imperyo ay walang kaparis at magpapatuloy ng ganoon habang nagsisimula ang proseso ng pagpili para sa unang sasagutin ang mga tungkulin ng Ministro ng Karangalan.

Sa pamamagitan ng karunungan ng Kanyang Kamahalan, ipinagkaloob sa Sambahayan ng Lycanis na pamahalaan ang mga operasyong ito at, dahil dito, pipiliin ang isa sa dalawang potensyal: Panginoon Breckard Morell o Mataas na Panginoon Akilles Lycanis. Parehong nagpakita ng hindi natitinag na katapatan sa Imperyo at ang huling pagpipilian ang tutukoy kung paano makakatanggap ang Senado ng Imperyal ng mga hindi inaasahang kaganapan sa hinaharap. Ang kilalang Panginoon Morell ay mapag-imbento at matalino. Ang Mataas na Panginoon Lord Lycanis ay matatag at maasahan.

Maaari mo na ngayong ipahayag ang iyong pabor sa isang partido kaysa sa isa. Lalagpasan ng Imperyo ang mga bituin.

Union Storyline

Ang Inyong Kasipagan ay Nagpapatibay sa Aming Malinaw na Landas Sa ngalan ng Unyon, bilang isang kolektibong kinatawan ng pamumuno, layunin ng Vox na kilalanin hindi lamang ang pagbabago at pagkagambala nitong maraming buwan kundi pati na rin ang mga paghihirap na kaakibat nito. Ito ay mga magulong panahon, lalo na sa aming chain ng produksyon: kawalan ng katiyakan sa logistik, paglabag sa seguridad, maling alingawngaw, at laganap na pag-atake ng hysteria. Ipangalandakan na ang Unyon ay matatag. Nananatili tayong matatag kahit sa mga paghihirap na sa totoo lang ay walang pinagkaiba sa araw-araw na pakikibaka na ating tinitiis para sa isang mas perpektong Unyon. Nakita namin ang kahirapan. Hinarap namin ang kahirapan ng may katapangan at katatagan. Ito ay isa lamang katok sa pintuan ng pagkakataon. Tumingin kami sa isang nasala na lens upang ipakita ang isang pamilyar na landas.

Ang landas na iyon ay humahantong sa katatagan at makabuluhang layunin. Mas malinaw kaysa sa Imperyo, halimbawa, sa pagtanggi sa mga malinaw na katotohanan tungkol sa pagtatangka sa buhay ni Emperador Solas. Ang kanilang pag-atake laban sa kanilang sariling katotohanan, upang yakapin ang kalinlangan, ito ang kanilang magiging kapahamakan.

Nilalabanan natin ang gayong pagsasabotahe at bilang pagpapakita ng may prinsipyong disiplina, ang ating Code of Ethics ay binasa sa masusing pagtalakay sa loob ng kasalukuyang pamumuno at nakahanda para sa makasaysayang pag-endorso ng mas malaking populasyon ng Unyonista. Ito ay ang Etika ng Pagpapahayag, Impormasyon, Kaligtasan, Kalusugan, Mapagkukunan, at Sibil.

Bilang karagdagan sa mga monumental na kasunduang ito sa buong paksyon, ang isang Steward ay ihahalal sa demokratikong paraan para sa bawat standing code. Ang bawat tinatawag na Steward ay kikilos bilang isang kasalukuyang, pangunahing halimbawa para sa kanilang sinisingil na etika. Ang mga kandidato ay magmumula sa aming maraming pinuno at kinatawan ng angkan. Ang unang pangangasiwa para sa halalan ay ang Steward of Expression. Malapit nang makolekta ang mga boto, sa mga susunod na araw.

Samahan kami sa paghanap namin sa era ng Einsen Bridge at para maghatid ng isang modelo para sa mga henerasyong susunod. Ang Inyong Kontribusyon sa Kapayapaang Sibil, Ang Ating Etika ng Pagpapahayag

Sa maraming deliberasyon sa Vox, Tribes, at hindi mabilang na mga pampublikong botohan, dumating na ang araw upang maitatag ang ating dakilang Palahudyatang Etika ng Unyon. Tutukuyin nito kung paano tayo, bilang mga taong futurista ang pag-iisip, ay umaangkop sa panahon ng Einsen Bridge. Ang mga panahong ito ay hindi tiyak. Ang mga miyembro ng Vox ay patuloy na nakikiramay sa mga kapwa explorer sa mga paghihirap na dinadala nating lahat. Malaki ang pag-asa na ngayon ay nagbibigay ng ginhawa sa pagbuo ng isang matibay na pundasyon na tatagal sa hindi mabilang na henerasyong darating. Ang una sa aming anim na etika ay ang Etika ng Pagpapahayag. Bagama't ito ay isinasagawa na sa lahat ng sulok ng Unyon, ang kahalagahan nito ay dapat na permanenteng protektahan para sa kapakanan ng ating hinaharap, mga walang hanggang henerasyon. Para lalong patatagin ang aming paninindigan sa usaping ito, ipinapahayag namin, hindi lamang sa salita kundi maging sa pamamahala. Kasama sa ating iba't iba at pangunahing Kodigo ng Etika ang mga posisyon sa pamumuno, na paikutin tulad ng pag-ikot ng pangkalahatang pamumuno sa loob at labas ng Vox. Dumating na ang oras upang magpasya ang unang Steward of Expression. Ang mga tagapangasiwa ay ang mga may hawak na kasalukuyang posisyon sa pamumuno sakay ng Bastion. Sila ay iikot upang pagsilbihan ang mga tungkulin ng kanilang pangangasiwa tulad ng ginagawa nila ngayon para sa tahanan at lupain. Pinili nang random ang dalawang kandidato para sa Steward of Expression: sina Kasamahang Kase Marshle ng Forlorn Brotherhood at Flint Schaqtre ng Tribe Sunless. Si kasamahang Kase ay isa sa aming pinaka-organisadong pinuno ng clan. Ang kanyang mga ginawang operasyon ay pinuri para sa kaniyang kahusayan at pagkakaugnay. Sa kabila ng bahagyang katigasan, ang dedikasyon ni Kase sa higit pang mga pangunahing pamantayan ng Unyon ay walang kaparis. Parehong kwalipikado ang kasalukuyang pinuno ng pagmimina ng Tribe Sunless, si Flint Schaqtre. Ang pinakamalinaw na handog ni Mr. Schaqtre ay dumating sa anyo ng versatility. Mahabang pila ang nabubuo, sa labas ng kanyang quarters sakay ng Bastion, ng mga nangangailangan ng kanyang multifaceted services. Maaaring, minsan, mahirap sundin kanyang sinasabi. Ang kanyang pagtuturo ay maaaring maipis ngunit ang kanyang kakayahang umangkop ay huwaran.

Samahan kami sa pagpili namin ng unang Steward of Expression at maghatid sa bagong edad.

Ang inyong tinawag na Kasalukuyang Pinuno,

Aish Fenix

Para sa higit pang mga detalye, kumonsulta sa lagusan sa kwento ng mga paksyon: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Ang Mga Unang Boto Ng Reporma, Para sa Bagong Panahon ng Pagtuklas ng Pangkalawakang Panahon

Transgalaktikong ulat 6.7.512, Pandaigdigang Konseho
Ang bawat pangkat ng interstellar ay nagtatag na ngayon ng una sa ilan, ng mga opisyal na paghirang na idinisenyo upang palakasin ang kanilang posisyon sa umuusbong na bagong panahon ng Einsen Bridge. Ang mga resulta ay ang mga sumusunod:

Imperyo:
Breckard Morell bilang Ministro ng Karangalan - 55.84% Imperyal na pabor
Akilles Lycanis bilang Ministro ng Karangalan - 44.16% Imperyal na pabor

Pederasyon:
Gustong magbigay ng mga kontrata sa OTK Communications - 65.19% ng mga boto
Gustong magbigay ng mga kontrata sa Sonar Electronics - 34.81% ng mga boto

Unyon:
Kase Marshle bilang Katiwala ng Pagpapahayag- 61.33% ng mga boto
Flint Schaqtre bilang Katiwala ng Pagpapahayag- 38.67% ng mga boto

Chapter 1.2: Reposition

After these Vote Results..

Federation Storyline

Speculation Runs Rampant Amidst The Empire's Choice For 'Honor Minister'
Jersah Ortyn, Foreign Correspondent Op-Ed – Brainbox, a Novum auxiliary

While news from the Empire should always be taken with a grain of salt, or perhaps a fermented grain, tastefully poured in a glass, the news of Lord Morell accepting a position as high profile as the Minister of Honor is news to be taken with many grains. Many fermented grains, tastefully poured in a very large glass."

Somehow, the idea that a member--any member--of House Lycanis would receive anything other than a charged bolt from a rifle, is nothing short of a shock. But for someone from this house, who is widely considered a contributor--if not the orchestrator--of the recent failed coup to overthrow Emperor Solas… I'm at a loss for words. Today is a unique day, ladies and gentlemen. It's not often the buzzing Federation streets are drawn away from the latest Einsen Bridge conspiracy but, make no mistake, drawn away they are. Whatever the Emperor has cooked up for House Lycanis, you can bet, it's not a newly minted, distinguished ministry position.

Empire Storyline

From the Minister of Honor
Lord Morell, House Lycanis

It is my duty to inform members of the imperium: In light of the Federation awarding funds on the matter of intelligence, take caution. The self-conflicting federal collective may claim honorable duty and knowledge within their citizenry, as if their intention is to look within themselves. However, my new role awards me insight into their bad faith intentions. They instead look outward with their thinly-veiled syndicate contracts, used to dissipate their spies from honest view, only to reappear later, with lies from beyond their borders. This is a misstep on their part.

The Federation's outward gaze betrays them as His Excellency points to the true matter at hand: There are many unanswered questions the Federation willingly ignores regarding the events of the Eisen Bridge manifestations. How did these anomalies occur? Why now? And what are the possibilities behind their behavior? These are natural inquiries for such monumental events. And yet, the volume seems unusually quiet from our friends in the Federation. As your Minister of Honor, and in service to our supreme dynast, it is my duty to ask these questions, and to keep asking them until the volume is loud enough to hear a response.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

Our Re-emphasis Of Inclusion
Fellow Kase Marshle, Steward-elect of Expression

Members of the Union, I want to express my gratitude to you all for selecting me as the first Steward of Expression. It is a great honor and I assure you I will do my utmost to set a precedent worthy of future Stewards who will succeed me. It is with all sincerity that I come to you to re-emphasize that which we toiled and discussed from the moment the first Einsen Bridge appeared: How do we move forward? What do we do to keep our brothers and sisters safe, content, and heard?

It is that last point I want to focus on. To be heard. It is that point in which the foundation of my new post is built. Make no mistake, take comfort in the truth: my post is a reflection of your expression, not my own. I am but a solar sail. Useless without your rays of light. My first order of discussion that I will bring to the next Union Council session will be your order of discussion. I will be taking these next several stardates to listen to those who will speak. I will make it my mission that this post does not shut you out, like some have said. I will make it my mission that you are represented, that you are heard.

Thank you again.

Heads held high.

Chapter 2.1: Priority

Second Step of Interfaction Reformation Solutions

Transgalactic report 15.7.512, Universal Council

Each faction has been experiencing reformation in their own way. Stemming from the events of what has become known as the “Einsen Bridge” Events, the Empire, Federation, and Union have been undergoing disruptive change, figuring out how leadership can better represent the people. Strategy and planning at the highest levels are nearing completion and it’s time for action.

For further details, consult your faction story channel.

Federation Storyline

President Huxley Promotes the Founding of Galactic Defense Commission
Eiron Tehmil, Political Correspondent, Takeyon Reports

Previously, Federation voters selected the recipient of contracts from the recently formed Department of Intelligence. This marked the first of a multi-step plan titled the Regulatory Einsen Bridge Exploration Acceleration Task or “REBEAT”. The aim of this rollout is to meet new age challenges with focused intent.

As such, the intent continues with a second round of reformation contracts.This time from the Galactic Defense Commission, a new regulatory committee formed by the Federal Presidential Alliance much in the same vein as the last vote’s Department of Intelligence.

“Galactic Defense [Commission] is a vital element as we move forward into a new age.” proclaims 1st Sector President Victor Huxley during his speech at a grand ball fundraiser. “This great Federation has risen to the occasion time and time again, and it is again time. Our defense is second to none and its strength will, without a doubt, continue to grow with this new formation.”

Selection for these new defense contracts falls to one of two established contractors: Tonocom Defense or VasTech Enterprise.

Tonocom’s history is well known for their speed as demonstrated recently during the Morn incident when they quashed efforts of the Union terrorist cell, the Ojin-Kai. Furthermore, Tonocom intel also exposed traitorous Federation colluders who were giving the terrorists aid. It is clear Tonocom’s ability to quickly dispatch its forces provides deep value. Their tempo would be an undeniable asset if not for the occasional misstep, often suffered due to partial accomplishment. While known Unionist colluders have been tried and convicted, reports of missing shipments continue to plague Tonocom’s bookings. As a result, ongoing litigations to settle incomplete contracts continue to pile up.

While speed (albeit occasionally inconsistent) is synonymous with Tonocom, their counterpart in this vote falls on the other end of the spectrum. VasTech may not win the race, but their developments are often worth the wait. Look no further than the VasTech Conventional Assault Rifle. No other weapon has been manufactured more than the VTCAR series firearm, slung over nearly every other freedom fighter’s shoulder. VasTech seemingly refuses to compromise on design or performance—to a fault. Not every design lives up to its ambitions. The recently disappointing Valkyrie program promised new heights in tactical advantages but has since proven little more than a special forces program. But as VasTech will remind you: what a special program it is.

Whichever you favor, be sure to exercise your right to cast a vote.

Empire Storyline

Formation of the Ministry of Trust
Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Glycon.

Greetings and glory to the Empire. It is with great honor that House Glycon announces the origin and enforcement of the Imperial Ministry of Trust. This Ministry will dutifully hold authority in matters of foreign and domestic affairs, trade, and servitude, in accordance with His Premiere Dynast, Imperator Solas. This acute designation is the second of six ministries that will be formed to aid the Imperial Senate's continued confirmation of imperial dominance in the galaxy. This day is no different than the time before it. Our great empire is unmatched and will continue to be so as the selection period begins for the first to bear the duties of Minister of Trust.

Through the wisdom of His Excellency, an esteemed highborn will be appointed from either House Etruscus or House Gorgona to direct operations and, as such, one of two potentials will be selected: Lord Venthe Etruscus or Lady Chrysana Gorgona. Both contribute flawless service to The Empire and the final choice will navigate unprecedented eventualities including the study and exploration of Einsen Bridges. While House Etruscus is eager to maximize imperial benefit from foreign contribution, at times, their exploits complicate some lucrative agreements. House Gorgona, on the other hand, is more charismatic and disarming. This generates certain opportunities that might otherwise present themselves but their formalities have occasionally prevented some practical opportunities from manifesting.

You may now express your favor toward one party over the other.

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

Your Contribution to Civil Knowledge, Our Ethic of Information

Recent and thorough deliberation among the Vox, Tribes, and many public polls, we continue to assemble our great Union's Code of Ethics. This Code is to guide us, a forward-minded people, in navigating the era of the Einsen Bridge. Your efforts are recognized frequently during these difficult times. Hardships are a burden for one but are eased when shouldered by many. It is with great hope that today serves as an easing as we begin the formation of a strong foundation that will last for countless generations to come.

To ensure this easing, our second Code of Ethics is ratified to officially facilitate all matters of information.This again is indicative of current pursuits of knowledge and its etching into our records ensures all future pursuits now until the end of time. As with Expression, the Ethic of Information is nurtured by its Steward aboard the Bastion. They will rotate in to serve the duties of their stewardship just as they do now for home and shareland.

Chosen at random are two candidates for Steward of Information: a Speaker in the Vox for the SNTNLS clan, Captain Hayden Blunt, and a chief Serpent’s Tooth agent, Mongrel Lars. Captain Blunt has risen within the ranks quickly for her young age. Her peers describe her as full of inquisitive and infectious energy. However, when pressed, her youth can show through at times, which chips away at the forceful veneer she presents. Chief Lars takes a different approach, using a winning, perceptive application to his duties. Those in his close circles express admiration for his ability to read a situation and seemingly navigate with ease. While many implore his tact as a sight to behold, they also describe how “Mo” keeps all but his closest confidants at arm’s length.

Join us as we select the first Steward of Information and embark on a journey of enlightenment and usher in a new age.

Your called-upon Present Leader, Aish Fenix

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Phase 2 Votes of Reform in This New Age of the Einsen Bridge

Transgalactic report 19.7.512, Universal Council
Each interstellar faction has selected the second of multiple official appointments designed to strengthen their position in these uncertain times. The results are as follows:

Empire:
Venthe Etruscus as Minister of Trust - 58.17% Imperial favor
Chrysana Gorgona as Minister of Trust - 41.83% Imperial favor

Federation:
Award contracts to Tonocom - 50.34% of the votes
Award contracts to VasTech - 49.66% of the votes

Union:
Hayden Blunt as Steward of Information - 67.4% of the votes

Mongrel Lars as Steward of Information - 32.6% of the votes

Other relevant report:
The Union’s new Steward of Information has ordered a permanent outpost on the foreign planet of Mímir. Its mission, according to Union leadership, is to ramp up the study of Quantum and its relationship with the now inaccessible Cradle. The first objective for the landing crew is to strategize how to recover access to the Cradle, thought to remain deep under the surface of the planet.

Chapter 2.2: Priority

After these Vote Results..

Federation Storyline

Union to Send Envoy Into Federation Territory
Inse Jokuan, Foreign Affairs Report – Nova Times, a Novaros division

The newly appointed “Steward of Information” has announced the deployment of armed Unionists set for Mímir within the Federation territory. “I waste no time in executing that which is urgent for the betterment of Unionists,” writes Unionist military captain Hayden Blunt, “I have moved to set course for Mímir with the urgent intention of establishing a base near the Cradle site. Join me in supporting this mission,” the Steward urged, going on to say the operation “will gain advantages to every member [of the Union].”

“They cannot do that,” claims Donel Gladson CEO of Tonocom, just minutes after signing defense contracts with the newly formed Galactic Defense Commission. “It’s as simple as that.”

When asked what will happen should the Union ignore Mr. Gladson’s simplices, “They won’t,” he replied. “Mímir is Federation territory.” No other clarification was provided.

What is clear are the Federation investigation and recovery operations currently underway on Mímir, also near the now buried site of the Cradle. Each Sector President has gone on record agreeing the horrific Einsen Bridge events must not happen again and that Mímir must be secured, for the safety of all humankind.

The invading Unionist vessel is scheduled to enter Mímir’s orbit in 2–3 standard sols.

Empire Storyline

From the Minister of Trust
Lord Venthe Etruscus

Members of the imperium, on behalf of all of House Etruscus, I am pleased to confirm a first Report of Trust within the Empire.

Acts of trust, nobility, and fidelity continue to grow with confidence throughout the imperial realm. These reputable acts are quickly returned in kind and met with reward. One such commendation is extended to House Lycanis. As an esteemed servant to the realm and chair of the Imperial Ministry of Honor, this house has demonstrated great resolve amidst the changing of an era. Misinformation runs afoul outside our borders but Lycanis holds steadfast. Their loyalty and devotion is beyond reproach and is deserving of peer praise.

It is the intention of this Ministry of Trust to announce formal and highmost acclaim to House Lycanis across all systems, Imperial and otherwise.

It is the duty of this ministry to broadcast such trends on behalf of His Excellency The Imperator, as a cornerstone of inspiration to demonstrate significant imperial contribution to humankind. Your personal contribution is the simple act of bettering the Empire, as you already do each day. Go forward, and you will be rewarded.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

Steward’s Order: A Permanent Facility on Mímir
Captain Hayden Blunt, Steward-elect of Information

Members of the Union, as the newly appointed Steward of Information, I waste no time in executing that which is urgent for the betterment of Unionists and all humankind. I have moved to order a special science and research deployment, which will set course for the planet Mímir, with the urgent intention of establishing a base. As Steward of Information, it is imperative we learn, planetside, everything possible about the matters surrounding the Cradle. As such, the only path to accomplish this is a permanent facility near the site in question.

I will lead this mission aboard the USV Inquisitor with the urgent intention of establishing a forward base near the Cradle site. Permanent study is to begin as soon as possible along with regular reports sent to the Vox as often as possible.

Join me in supporting this mission as it is the first step in a long journey of knowledge. I am confident the establishment of this facility will benefit the Union as a whole and serve as a scientific catalyst for historic findings, leading to immeasurable discoveries, insights, and future ground-breaking innovations. My declaration to you is that of dedication. This stewardship will offer advantages to every member of this great Union, and it begins this day. Thank you.

Heads held high.

Chapter 3.1: Territory

Reformation Interrupted by Territorial Dispute

Reformation Interrupted by Territorial Dispute

The selections of each faction’s reformation leaders are interrupted by a territorial dispute. The Union reported construction and research teams setting course for Mímir to establish a base planetside, near the collapsed site of The Cradle. However, the Federation’s new defense contractor does not recognize the vessel, has positioned patrol vessels within intercept distance, and has restricted planetside access.

There are reports of retaliatory threats originating from both sides. Unfortunately, these reports cannot be properly confirmed, due to the unique circumstance of Mímir: standard galactic infrastructure, such as neutral record tracking and incident verification, is not yet fully in place and remains under construction. Therefore, the word of each side must be evaluated solely on their merit alone.

Despite an incomplete roster of new faction representatives, leaders must decide how to resolve this territorial dispute: The Union claims Mímir to be neutral, intergalactic space, to be occupied freely by each faction. From the Union’s Steward of Information:

“It is imperative we learn, planetside, everything possible concerning the matters surrounding The Cradle. As such, the only path to accomplish this is a permanent facility near the site in question.”

However, the Federation Galactic Defense contractor offers a different interpretation: Due to recent tragedy on its surface, combined with Mímir’s suspected relationship with the anomalous Einsen Bridge events, protective measures are required to avoid any future, catastrophic occurrence. From the Federation’s Galactic Defense contractor and Sector Presidents:

“They cannot do that. The horrific Eisen Bridge events must not happen again. Therefore, Mímir must be secured, for the safety of all humankind.”

This dilemmatic case is set before the ruling factions. A judgment must be rendered.

Is the Union team allowed a permanent base planetside or is Federation protocol enacted?

For further details, consult your faction story channel.

Federation Storyline

Is The Union Welcome on Mímir?
Osuri Goyuama, Mímir Correspondent, Takeyon Reports

Reports are just arriving which describe an intentional interruption of the Federal investigation and recovery program on the planet Mímir. Those responsible for the interference claim Union allegiance, with their “Steward of Information” to be on board. However, Tonocom, recently contracted by the newly formed Galactic Defense Commission, believe it to be either a cohort of violent Unionist mercenaries or an unauthorized band of mercenary spies with covert intentions.

Taking account of all that has gone on with this mysterious planet, verified reports are still thin and difficult to corroborate. However, [Defense contractor executive name] held a press conference and alluded to a Unionist cover-up of their involvement in the disappearance and reappearance of the planet, along with the suspectedly linked—and catastrophic—Einsen Bridge events.

“Trust is earned, not given.” Donel Gladson, Tonocom CEO, went on to say. “Sera Varse and her so-called science crew lost that trust clearly and succinctly when countless lives were lost and the galaxy changed forever, all on her watch. And yet, the Union returns to the scene of the crime as if thinking they simply get, what? A do-over?”

The Galactic Defense Commission is fully behind their newly contracted megacorporation but it’s likely not enough without the support of the Empire. Their vote in the Universal Council case is the best chance to enforce Tonocom‘s planetary protection protocol. To ensure this, 1st Sector President Victor Huxley has sent high ranking cabinet members to the imperial home planet, Solaris Regnum, to negotiate a new trade agreement. Some Federation partners would benefit marginally but the real prize is imperial deferment to Federal security over Mímir’s planetside access. Such a prize will undoubtedly come at a cost where the Empire comes out of it with a sizable economic advantage.

With all this seemingly set against the Union, many Federalists have stated a convincing counter case where cooperation leads to rapid discovery. After the EB events, Federal investigators have had to start from scratch. With little to go by and the Cradle literally buried under tons of alien rock, the Unionists would be able to provide valuable information that would not only lead to better clues on the final moments of Sara Varse’s crew but potentially new leads on further EB research. All this, not to mention preserving Federation advantages over transgalactic trade.

What do you support in this territorial dilemma? Cast your vote to be heard and protect your freedom.

Empire Storyline

A Petty Spat Fosters Imperial Opportunity
Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, the Minister of Trust.

Greetings and glory to the Empire. Our factional counterparts have again failed to see the potential before us and have resorted to squabble. The Federation is attempting to horde a planet, as if imperial authority does not exist. With armaments excessively on display like a peacock defending its harem against its own reflection, they deny Mímir’s planetside access to the Union, the very same Union responsible for so much chaos on the planet for which they are now blocked.

As amusing as it is to revel in the debacle of lesser rulers, the circumstance presents a more important opportunity.

It appears the Federation is quite serious in the pursuit of policing the Mímir system. This is of little consequence to His Excellency, as His own planetside access is not in question. This has been guaranteed, through treaty, by all three Federal Sector Presidents, and verified by the Universal Council, as well as the presence and undeniable might of Imperial Forces. No such celestial body would be denied and the Federation knows it. As such, the Federation wishes to appeal to the newly formed Ministry of Trust with a handsome economic offering in exchange for simple neutrality. Nothing demonstrates The Imperator’s high standing more than His rivals rewarding Him for doing nothing.

The proposal is quite enticing. The Empire would gain significant footholds in trade and commerce if we simply defer to the Federation’s planetary protection protocol.

On the other hand, feeding a stray dog entices its return, wanting more. Too much may be ceded to the Federation’s ego, forcing upon us the hassle of correcting Federal misgivings in the future. Furthermore, we must not forget the many unanswered questions the Federation chooses to ignore regarding the Cradle and the Einsen Bridges.

I will present my recommendations to His Excellency in haste. You may express your favor toward one decision over the other.

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

Federation Preventing Union-Sanctioned Research Team From Landing on Mímir

As your newly pledged Steward of Information, I am leading research and construction teams to begin establishing a permanent settlement on Mímir. The goal is to build a permanent station near the former Cradle entrance and serve as a scientific forward base by learning everything possible from the source, planetside, regarding the matters surrounding The Cradle.

However, Federation occupiers are illegally fabricating unwarranted authority to deny planetside access for our peaceful Union specialists. This is unacceptable and must be stopped lest we hold open the door for every trumpet-blaring wannabe conqueror to start making up rules.

There is a path to victory. While the Federation inflates their hollow stick, a joint resistance between this great Union and the Empire is enough to pull down the curtain of Federalist delusion.There may not be much in common between the Emperor and the unified force of the Union, the occasion to set aside ideological differences for the sake of the common good may be at hand.

To those who protest our Present Leader crossing into imperial space and kneeling before the imperial ruler, keep in mind Unionist customs within Unionist territory also demand respect whenever foreign dignitaries visit the Bastion. It would be hypocritical of us to refuse the same right to others.

The only other path would be to concede, for now, to the Federation’s colonialist violation and return at a future date better prepared. The Federation’s ill conceived chest-pounding is surpassed only by their disillusioned belief they somehow command the whole of outer space. It is very possible we come back, not only to achieve our original mission but to also deliver a sloven Federalist populace a healthy serving of reality.

Your called-upon Present Steward of Information, Captain Hayden Blunt

Heads held high

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Mímir’s planetside access to the Unionist landing vessel

Transgalactic report 30.7.512, Universal Council
The case for Mímir jurisdiction has been resolved. The results are as follows:

Exclusivity to Mímir is not recognized. The Union envoy may land planetside.

Grant the Union access to Mímir. - 3 (Empire, Federation, Union)

Defer to Federal planetary protocol. - 0 ()

Empire:
Support Union access to Mímir - 61.59% Imperial favor
Defer to Federation protocol - 38.41% Imperial favor

Federation:
Grant the Union access to Mímir - 68.65% of the votes
Deny the Union access to Mímir - 31.35% of the votes

Union:
Appeal to the Empire for favor - 50.67% of the votes
Concede now, return better prepared - 49.33% of the votes

Other relevant report:

The Ministry of Trust has informed the Universal Council House Lycanis is commended for their loyalty to the Empire

Chapter 3.2: Territory

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

Mímir Is Ours to Choose
The Political Team, Political Correspondents – Grey Matter, a Novum auxiliary

Statements have been collected from government officials, contractors, and foreign liaisons. Here is the latest from the Mímir territorial dispute:

The Federation never claimed Mímir exclusivity. It’s unclear what all the fuss is about or who started it, Union or Tonocom. I'm just sorry PMG wasn't a finalist for the security contracts. This might have been avoided.
—Jasna Farrah, Head of Military Operations, from the corporation PMG Security

Despite what the Union may say, there are no territorial disputes. The Union needs to do better for themselves if they don't want to unnecessarily escalate tensions.
—Ana Plíšková, Sr. Victor Huxley Aide, Federation Explorer Program

The Union paid a steep price for planetary access they already had. They’re clearly looking to stir up something. Otherwise, they wouldn't have pulled the Universal Council into it. Their embarrassing capitulation to the Empire shows how much they have to learn.
–Donel Gladson, CEO, Tonocom Defense

Empire Storyline

The Union and Federation Fight, the Empire Wins
Lord Venthe Etruscus, Minister of Trust

A brief update in regard to Mímir:

Confirmed. The dispute is petty. The Union may do as they wish. Our standing remains superior. The Union agrees to Imperial economic lending and will publicly acknowledge Imperial economic superiority. Regardless, no more time will be wasted on the inhibitions of lesser institutions.

As a good steward of interfactional collaboration, Imperial physicists and spacetime experts have been guiding various Federation groups on Mímir as they research the site surrounding the Cradle. His Excellency has given the Federation a chance to meet Imperial expectations. However, they have fallen short of doing so.

As a result, and on behalf of House Etruscus, I am ordering a complete assembly of Imperial research and investigation teams and setting course for the planet Mímir. They will arrive, establish, and sustain Imperial facilities planetside, and begin scientific research and investigations, effective immediately.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

We Will Not Be Bullied
Kase Marshle, Steward of Information

Recent events on and around Mímir space have demonstrated the Union’s significance in the galaxy. The brave actions of Captain Hayden Blunt are commendable. She did not flinch nor hesitate when standing against the Federation. Not only did it force their hand but gave the Empire the opportunity to support our cause. It is clear, Mímir is not Federation territory and never will be.

Despite the optics, our borrowing terms with the Empire will be a great help with our economic efforts. Increases in food production and manufacturing will be a welcome relief. / Now that Mímir access is logged in record, we will establish a permanent settlement and ensure greater peace on Mímir. Our diligence is unmatched. We will not relent. This is but the opening leg of a long marathon.

Heads held high.

Federation Storyline

The Search for Point Zero in a Settlement of Chaos
Intonyl Raand, Mímir Correspondent, Keiper Trek Cycle, a Novum auxiliary

Not since the conflict between the Crimson Wolves vs the UC joint forces has the scene on Mímir been so active. The rocky surface of this mysterious planet is crawling with unilateral clusters of Federal activity happening shoulder-to-shoulder with Union efforts. These early days are mixed. Some productive and orderly as workers nod and wave as they carry on. Then strained sounds of overloaded equipment and curse-laden radio chatter can be heard. Other days grind to a halt due to tense stand-offs over little more than a few square meters of terrain.

Despite this mix stands a constant nuisance: Calls for evacuation haunt the airwaves, sometimes two in a single day, but no one leaves. No one wants to leave for fear of missing out on the next humanity-altering discovery.

A discovery that may or may not have already been made.

Word planetside is that “point-zero” has been located. Similar to “ground zero”, it is the exact point in space where one of the Einsen Bridges appeared and grew rapidly to engulf and/or jettison objects and matter as large as entire planets. Some Unionist reports indicate the location is a mere astronomical fraction away from Mímir’s orbit.

This news cannot yet be fully corroborated as planetside chaos runs rife with counter-efforts to throw rival research teams off the scent. It may be that point zero is several dozen meters above the planet’s surface or it could be halfway to Station Ignis. It depends on who you ask and at what time of day. With all that is being thrown around, it is safe that something significant has been discovered as we have learned the Empire is sending their own research convoy to Mímir space as well. Despite the lack of clarity on such a monumental discovery, what happens next is ironically clear: more chaos.

BREAKING: Union’s Steward of Information Planned to Defy Faction Vote
Jaysie Hassiron, Dignitary Columnist, AQZ, a Novaros division

The AQZ office has received an exclusive copy of a speech for the Union’s newly-elected Steward of Information. In case you missed it, the Union’s choice to pursue Mímir access was made by the narrowest of margins: 50.7% to 49.3%.

Shockingly, had the Union instead chosen to leave Mímir, the Steward had planned to defy the order and land on Mímir anyway. Read for yourself:

My fellow Unionists. I was curious to learn of the faction-wide voting that has transpired and I am aware the consensus is to return to the Bastion, regroup, and return stronger. I am aware of the difficulties you had to consider. It was not easy choosing either to appease a self-righteous absolutist for opportunity or concede that opportunity for the sake of Unionist principles. I was curious if you would choose our principles and you did. I am aware you would rather die on your feet than live on one knee. At no other time have I been more proud to be a Unionist than this day.

That said, I am also aware these principles have outshined any prohibition the Empire may have wanted. I am aware these principles caused the Federation to recall their initial blockade. It is a testament to the strength and resolve we as a people have demonstrated all these generations, going back to this Union’s original intention.

And so, I am reminded of my original intention, of my original curiosity. So I say to you again, as Steward of Information, it is imperative we learn, planetside, everything possible about the matters surrounding the Cradle. As such, the only path to accomplish this is a permanent facility near the site in question. I will not be returning to the Bastion. Instead, I will land on Mímir as planned with every effort to offer advantages to every member of this great Union. It begins this day.

Empire Storyline

Imperial Research of Einsen Bridge
Lord Venthe Etruscus, Minister of Trust

The continuation of our data and information superiority persists but I caution you of threats to truth and fact. With the passage of an age, there is a proverbial changing of the guard where new information takes the place of a sunsetting perception. As such, some valid knowledge finds itself unjustly expelled.

I tell you, we live in a day of two suns: one setting, the other dawning. Keep your heads about you. Seek validity wherever possible but do not fabricate it when it cannot be found. This is the discipline required to navigate the perils of rumor, hearsay, and gossip. They may have harmless appearances but their deceit can topple many Great Houses.

I do not reach out with absolute declaration or empty pronouncement. I reach out to tell you Mímir and its surrounding space is a vast source of knowledge, which is only just now being mined. This is not stated to validate fear but to take comfort in the security of the Imperial process. His Excellency’s Ministries will validate the knowledge as you go about your day, serving your Imperial purpose. Other factions will hem and haw, challenge truth and embrace fallacy, but the Imperial Ministry separates the factual wheat from the fictional chaff and we are the better for it.

I send this aboard a second convoy of supplies and researchers bound for Mímir space. Once arrived, I will more effectively direct efforts to mine the rich knowledge from this fascinating place. The glory and purpose of the Imperium will drive us forward into a promising future.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

Cpt. Hayden Blunt, Steward of Information

Fellow Unionists, an exciting time lay ahead of us as we near the possible location of where an Einsen Bridge has occurred. The steps necessary to confirm such a find are fraught with layers of proof as well as navigating petty misinformation disseminated by federal and imperial research teams.

While there may not yet be enough information to confirm the location point of an EB, take courage as we approach closer.

Heads held high.

Chapter 4.1: Intentions

A Vote Among Equals for the Sake of Irenic Cooperation

Transgalactic report 65.7.512, Universal Council

This council has had many talks and discussions with respective faction leaders about the activity in and around Mímir space. These conversations will continue for some time. In the meantime, a general consensus has been reached, which is to encourage and cultivate interfactional cooperation and multilateral initiatives in the name of diplomatic irenicism.

This comes at a critical time as Unionist Captain and Steward of Information Hayden Blunt and her team have confirmed the location of what is likely the centerpoint of an Einsen Bridge. This point in space is nearest Mímir but far from its immediate gravitational pull. Experts, planetside and spaceborne, are tentatively classifying it as a “near dormant Einstein-Rosen bridge”. Scientists confirmed they have sent a drone through the EB with full confidence it would not trigger any negative reactions.

Extreme precautions have been put in place, with all teams following strict protocols, despite ongoing astro-political tensions and conflicts. As of this transmission no significant incidents have been reported due to the test probe entering the EB gateway. There is no word yet of the probe’s return and no data has yet been received from the probe.

This is a momentous occasion and as such faction leaders have re-established or increased communication channels. Within the general consensus to cooperate, it has been agreed that a unilateral research task force is to be formed, consisting of Imperial, Federal, and Union members, for the sake of improved coordination and faster progress. However, consensus cannot be made as to who should lead said task force.

As a result, through the posthumous and neutral authority of the Universal Council, a vote has been called for each faction to choose which of the other two should lead the unilateral task force. Members cannot vote for their own faction.

For further details, consult your faction story channel.

Federation Storyline

EB Gateway Discovered, Irenic Partnership Vote Is Called
Oryn Z’anae, Interfactional Chief Editor, Takeyon Reports

A breakthrough discovery has been confirmed and transmitted by Federation task force experts and correspondents on Mímir. The location of an Einsen Bridge gateway is being observed and monitored. There are also reports of the first probe passing into the EB gateway. However, no confirmation yet of its return with any data or signals of any kind being received.

News of this discovery was announced during a rare, joint conference between the three Sector Presidents, 1st Sector Victor Huxley, 2nd Sector Aurea Adonis, and 3rd Sector Kim Lee. It is a moment forever etched in Federation history as well as a time to reflect on our accomplishments and allow ourselves the privilege to start dreaming again of our future. Presidents Adonis and Huxley expressed similarly over holonexus transmission.

3rd Sector President Kim Lee seemed to capture the imagination of the population by stating aboard Howitzer Station, “Moments like these rise above all else when they emerge from empathetic hardship. A hardship which now is accompanied by this glimmer of hope.”

Most of this hope stems from confirmation of human interaction with the EB gateway which did not result in any catastrophic reaction. Experts from the Federation as well as the Union and Empire unanimously agreed no such reaction would occur which proved correct as probes simply and inconsequentially disappeared through the gateway. It is this multilateral cooperation that is credited to “A cooperation among the factions that has reached a new high achievement,” declares OTK Comms Chief Intelligence Officer, Patrice Zidane, “A near-unanimous accord of continued cooperation is strongly supported by those of us planetside as well as leaders across our factions.”

This is where the multilateral cooperation ends however. Consensus cannot be made as to who, or which faction, will lead this cross-factional endeavor. Thus, the Universal Council, as is its design, has called for a vote of which faction should choose the leader. The caveat is that no faction may choose itself. And so, the burden of favoring a Federation rival falls to Federation voters. Not an easy task.

Supporters of the Empire are the expected voices. “I will support the majority of Federation voters but I do not shy away from my personal desire to work alongside the Union,” Ms. Zidane stated later in her speech, “OTK prides itself in diverse connections as a flagship trait, it has never led us astray, and our partners in the Union share this cornerstone of progress.”

Pro-imperial influencers commonly advocate strength from order, as summarized by Hugo Huxley, VasTech CEO, “This place [Mímir] was a chaotic mess until the Federation—with the support of the Empire—brought order. The Union was simply along for the ride.”

Critics of the Union often tie this to a sense of weakness despite demonstrations of standing up to both factions, simultaneously at times. Strength, however, is a double-edged sword when it comes to the perception of the Empire. Their reputation for forcing their ideals onto everything they’re involved in is widely known.

Nonetheless, what always supersedes any dilemma is the act of making a choice. So, always exercise your right to vote.

Empire Storyline

The First of Many Irenic Discoveries in This New Age
Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Glycon.

Glory to the Empire. I transmit to you good news: Imperial scientists and ministrations have brought honor to the Imperium by locating the precise coordinates of an Einstein-Rosen bridge gateway. To the insistence of the Universal Council, the Union has confirmed what His Excellency already knew. It is confirmed, drones are passing through to the other side and are awaiting data and broadcast of untold revelations. Unlike previous, less accomplished efforts, all have occurred without incident. Another testament to the functions of The Imperator’s scientific and exploration efforts. teams.

This is a monumental occasion, and it is worth celebrating its significance. Our place in history is without question and His Excellency’s Imperial citizens wear the distinction not only with pride but with generosity. As such, on behalf of The Imperator, House Glycon recognizes the importance of sharing this discovery and extends the rare honor of sharing further research efforts with only the highest accredited experts from another foreign state. Both the Federation and the Union have expressed gratitude for this opportunity and are fervently vying for selection.

Many conglomerates of the Federation have been worthy partners. Expertise and merit has been second only to Imperial superiority, and let’s not forget it was not the Federation that led the previously failed team which resulted in countless disasters and disappearances of entire planets. In fact, it is possible the reappearance of said planets may be credited to the Federation, although this has not yet been confirmed.

It may seem the choice is obvious, but it may benefit The Empire for the Union to challenge the Federation’s often meddlesome misbehavior. To bring Unionist experts under Imperial guidance, the joint endeavor would be an unstoppable force, paving a path of future Imperial influence over many more occupied systems. His Excellency is forgiving and fair-minded when given the opportunity to exercise such generosity, and with the Union’s acknowledgment of past misgivings, such an opportunity would demonstrate equitable justice.

You may now express your favored scientific partner.

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

An Irenic Milestone and a Necessary Inconvenience

My fellow Unionists, a new milestone is reached in the science of Einsen Bridge research. Through the decisive actions of our Steward of Information, Captain Hayden Blunt, the location of one such EB gateway has been located near the planet Mímir and probes have successfully passed through. These steps are incredibly promising and propell us all in the right direction.

Despite the difficulties we have encountered with Federation interference and imperial frigidity, this is a time of much needed celebration. With each step, we find ourselves transitioning from the precipice of new scientific discovery to the establishment of understanding.

With this new step forward, it has become clear from those planetside at the Cradle’s site to leadership aboard the Bastion, a joint research task force among the factions is called for. The only question is who is to lead the effort. This is a debate that will not end if not for the unique position held by the Universal Council. They have officially called for a vote where each faction cannot elect themselves but instead must choose another.

First, it is necessary to acknowledge the superior qualifications of a Union-led multilateral research plan. Survivors of Sera Varse’s crew have indispensable experience and knowledge that lend to a far better set of results and faster timeline. That said, as difficult as it is to consider a lesser of two oppressors, we have faced more difficult challenges. It is possible to circumnavigate the Empire’s overbearing hubris as well as hold a petty Federation accountable.

Join us as we select a necessary—albeit exasperating—counterpart to continue Einsen Bridge research.

Your called-upon Present Leader, Aish Fenix

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Leadership Selections for a Multilateral EB Gateway Research Task Force

Transgalactic report 43.7.512, Universal Council
The nomination process has concluded for the eventual formation of a multilateral EB gateway research task force. The results are as follows:

Empire:
Accept Federation assistance - 65.3% Imperial favorr
Accept Union assistance - 34.7% Imperial favor

Federation:
Partner with the Union - 65.05% of the votes
Partner with the Empire - 34.95% of the votes

Union:
Collaborate with the Empire - 40.81% of the votess
Collaborate with the Federation - 59.19% of the votes

Other relevant report:

Discussions and negotiations among faction parties and Universal Council delegates will continue on this matter. The next step is the creation of an interfactional list of individuals qualified to lead the research task force. Once the roster is finalized, another vote will be called to narrow down the list.

Chapter 4.2: Intentions

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

The Empire Should Lead Einsen Bridge Efforts
Jistun Naols, Interfaction Editor Op-Ed – NovA.I., a Novaros division

Fortune favors the thoughtful, although I am hard-pressed to find this trait among my fellow Federation patriots.

This is because no one is heeding a time-tested proverb: The first through the wall is the bloodiest. These words of wisdom scream to be heard, yet they fall on deaf ears. It is ridiculous for so many Federalists to clamor over the chance and insist we lead a joint EB research task force. The glory is not there. Only failure and embarrassment. “Watch and learn” is the smart play.

Fortune favors the side-stepper. At the start, we were right to let the Union have a go. Let Sera Varse inspect an unknown planet of horrors. We were right to cheer her on as she blundered and took several planets down with her. What did you expect? Cosmo Columbus Discovers New New Worlds?? Fame and fortune does not favor the bold. Fortune favors the successor who walks over the bodies of the failed. Columbus died an outcast. His sponsors chased fantasies of gold. Varse and her Union were so eager and failed so badly, they left more failures to find.

Empire Storyline

From the Minister of Trust

The Empire hereby withdraws from the unproductive discussions and empty talk regarding the Einsen Bridge gateway research. It is clear non-Imperial contributors are more interested in spreading rumor over scientific fact.

It is never the role of this Imperium to waste time in meaningless squabbles. The unmatched influence His Excellency enjoys has been earned through insight, sound strategy, and decisive action. It is this paradigm that the Ministry of Trust will follow. As such, this Ministry will establish a joint effort, in lock-step, with the soon-to-be-formed Imperial Ministry of Knowledge. Together, the influence of Imperial scientific advancement will be demonstrated for all to follow.

As you resume your service to the Imperator, take this time to celebrate the progress we have made here, in the name of the Imperium. Then, go out and continue conquering the stars.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

The Union Soldiers On Regardless Of The Storms Caused By Others
Jistun Naols, Interfaction Editor Op-Ed – NovA.I., a Novaros division

Unionist, it is with great pride to serve alongside you as we continue our march toward progress. Today is no different than the last, be it with or without the aid of either bloated faction. One brags of imperial accomplishment when their contribution is nothing more than an empty vote. The other talks over itself, interrupts itself, and celebrates contradiction and incoherent noise.

We don’t need their help. Should they offer it as we gather knowledge and resources, we will remember our creed and ethics, and offer gratitude, but we will not be distracted. Our mission is too great. Our efforts are already proven. We press on for unity, for progress and for Sera Varse. Her labor was not in vain. Her labor is our labor. We take up her mantle and lead, not by neutral blessing from Station Ignis, we lead because it is in us to press forward and leave hubris and conflict behind. We move light, and with intent, because there is discovery ahead and I am able to pursue it because you are by my side. Shoulders back.

Heads held high.

Chapter 5.1: Mind, Body and Soul

Third Step of Interfaction Reformation Solutions

Transgalactic report 52.7.512, Mandla Bankole, Universal Council

Due to some isolated events and certain verbal expressions following the previous vote results, it has been decided to offer clarity as to why your, and all, faction leaders are taking multi-factional actions in the name of cooperative progress during these uncertain times:

Significant political and diplomatic interest has converged onto a single galactic-spatial point known as an Einstein-Rosen Bridge (or Einsen Bridge). The level of interest around such a relatively small area has historically required neutral, Universal Council-led intervention, as is unanimously controlled by only and all factions.

This historical need for neutral arbitration is supported by, among many other events, the signal disruption originating from the sudden appearance of the planet Mímir, as well as the most recent territorial conflict involving the very same planet. As such, it is the responsibility of this Council to develop a multilateral EB task force capable of addressing current and future unknown challenges that lie before us all.

This Council also acknowledges those few resistant voices who have expressed opposition to multilateral cooperation. While counter expression is the source of balance, the Council humbly reminds the galaxy of a more delicate balance. A balance of truce. A balance that guards against devastating events like those that led to the destruction of our home system so many generations ago. With such a delicate but crucial balance in place, we are allowed the privilege of peace and Eirenism. A term agreed upon by all factional members of the Universal Council. Therefore, the Einsen Bridge in question will henceforth be known as the Irenic Einsen Bridge.

So then, with this clarification, and territorial inquiries concluded as well as development of multilateral EB task force returning to the negotiating table, each faction now continues their respective reformation process.

Stemming from devastating anomalous events, the Empire, Federation, and Union are underway in establishing new leadership positions with the intent of better representing the people.

For further details, consult your faction story channel.

Federation Storyline

REBEAT Makes Huge Investment in Human Advancement
Eusjo Inna, Political Correspondent, Takeyon Reports

This round of REBEAT votes affects all Federalists equally. It spans both breadth—as it affects a faction’s entire population—as well as depth, due to the sheer number of divisions held by the Department of Human Advancement. This regulatory committee will fund a record six sub-departments: physical & mental health, biophysical enhancement, fundamental rights, labor, and trade.

“The number of divisions is not a concern,” 3rd Sector President Kim Lee casually answered questions to the press, on her way to an embassy gala on Station Edison. “We have endured a rigorous selection process. The vetting has been heated but fair.”

President Lee hopes her confidence is infectious as Federalists go to the polls to select one of the two remaining candidates. First is Hygeia Systems, a massive conglomerate spanning abilities and services from logistics to holographic fingernail implants. To list everything Hygeia offers would be a fool’s errand. It is difficult to compare Hygeia’s reach compared to other heavyweight contenders but its presence on the ballot is a not-so-subtle hint of its qualifying capabilities. To achieve such reach, the company adopted an unorthodox internal structure. Critics point that with that framework in place, no one person is at the helm of it all. With four Chief Executive Officers and a trio of board chairpersons, some wonder, aloud and frequently, if its unorthodox structure is a secret weapon or a gateway to haphazard dispersion.

On the other side of this monumental picture stands Eve-N Technologies, a methodical, personable megalith, also capable of inhabiting each responsibility of the committee’s demands. Its most recognizable contribution to the wellness of Federalist’s lives comes through nutrition and sustenance. It has managed to position its grocery supplies throughout numerous Federal outlets, as well as significant foreign exports, by way of savvy diplomacy. An entity as prominent as Eve-N, reason suggests they would leverage their heft to reach their goals. Instead, a calm voice and extended hand garner a welcoming atmosphere for partners and competitors alike. Only when comfort is achieved and guards are lowered is one confronted with Eve-N’s rigidity. However reasonable and logical, exploiting any weakness or leveraging any competitive advantage against this megalith becomes an uphill battle. Critics point to this as the number one reason for the sluggish rate of change, however necessary, coming from Eve-N’s leadership ranks.

Of all the potentials that campaigned for these two final ballot slots, it’s clear Hygeia and Eve-N leave the least doubt about their qualifications. All that’s left is to exercise your right to vote.

Empire Storyline

Formation of the Ministry of Knowledge
Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Glycon.

Glory to the Empire. It is with great honor that House Glycon announces the origin and enforcement of the Imperial Ministry of Knowledge. This Ministry will dutifully hold authority in matters of education, intelligence, and communication, in accordance with His Premiere Dynast, Imperator Solas. This acute designation is the third of six ministries that will be formed to aid the Imperial Senate's continued confirmation of imperial dominance in the galaxy. This day is no different than the time before it. Our great Empire is unmatched and will continue to be so as the selection period begins for the first to bear the duties of Minister of Knowledge.

Through the wisdom of His Excellency, House Voden has been vested to administer these operations and, as such, one of two potentials will be selected: High Lord Mathias Voden or Lady Sakura Kogawa. Both have demonstrated exceptional understanding of scientific precedence, to The Empire’s substantial benefit. No two in the Imperium are better qualified to lead efforts in Einsen Bridge research. The final choice will determine how the Imperial Senate will receive unforeseen events in the future.

High Lord Voden’s mastery in technological research and production systems is unmatched. He has been rewarded accordingly for the benefit of the many tools, devices, and technology His Excellency has shared throughout the Imperium. It takes a firm hand to sustain such efficiencies. Lord Voden’s hand is immovable.

The distinguished Lady Sakura is Lord Voden’s complement with her ability to put Lord Mathias’ theories and ideas to practice. House Voden’s production rate is absolutely tremendous, thanks to this “Lady Infinite”, who seems capable of providing anything at any scale. An enviable byname at first glance, it comes at great bureaucratic cost–Lady Sakura is a perfectionist where safety conduct is concerned. Difficult as it is to juggle such levels of productivity, no one else is willing to deal with all the perils of accommodating so many all at once.

You may now express your favor toward one party over the other.

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

Reformation, Hope, and Health to All

The fruits of our efforts among the Vox, Tribes, and many public polls, are coming to fruition as we continue to assemble our Code of Ethics. Guidance is taking shape and we, as a forward-minded people, are already navigating the uncertainties of this new Einsen Bridge era. Your efforts are recognized frequently during these ambiguous times. For one, hardship is a burden, but with familial compatriots, it becomes a bond. Celebrate with me as this bond strengthens for the benefit of countless generations to come.

To reinforce this bond, our third Code of Ethics is ratified to officially facilitate all matters of health. As with our other Ethics, the Ethic of Health is nurtured by its Steward aboard the Bastion. They will rotate in to serve the duties of their stewardship just as they do now for home and shareland.

Chosen at random are two candidates for Steward of Health: Doctor Jase Yosen of the Redeemers, a true Unionist exemplifying the very heart of the Union. In thought, Jase envisions the result far in advance, unrecognized by many until its benefits are realized. His medical research is widely recognized as several steps ahead of the most innovative collectives. In fact, he is working on a theory explaining the phenomenon known as Quantum Sickness: it may have little to do with Quantum at all. Therein lie the complexities of Dr. Yosen’s methodologies. Such an unorthodox, forward-thinking mind will undoubtedly face the physical resistance of an opposing consensus.

The second candidate is Elder Clansman Stefan Sagge of the Snow Dawn. If forward-thinking is the competition, Elder Stefan meets it squarely with wisdom. It is this fair level of understanding that has saved lives from the mysterious effects of quantum sickness. Hasty diagnoses would have certainly added to the death count but Stefan’s steady hand has kept many loved ones from undue grief. It is this steady hand that casts a far reach, at present, with deliberate intention from the good clansman on emphasizing the present for the good of the future. Not an earth shattering revelation, to be sure, but an apt diagnosis that is difficult to refute.

Join us as we select our first Steward of Health and craft a plan of wellbeing for generations to come.

Your called-upon Present Leader,

Aish Fenix

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Phase 3 Votes of Reform in This New Age of the Einsen Bridge

Transgalactic report 56.7.512, Universal Council

Each interstellar faction has selected the third of multiple official appointments designed to strengthen their position in these uncertain times. The results are as follows:
Empire:

Mathias Voden for Minister of Knowledge - 59.4% Imperial favor

Sakura Kogawa for Minister of Knowledge - 40.6% Imperial favor

Federation:

Award humanity contracts to Hygeia - 56.81% of the votes

Award humanity contracts to Eve-N Tech - 43.19% of the votes

Union:

Jase Yosen as Steward of Health - 65.31% of the votes

Stefan Sagge as Steward of Health - 34.69% of the votes

Other relevant reports:

Imperial research teams have arrived on Mímir without incident.

Chapter 5.2: Mind, Body and Soul

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

New REBEAT Human Advancement Contractor Sets Sight On Irenic Einsen Bridge
Alaur Kelar, Health Reporter, Op-Ed, News Outlet

Hygeia Systems is wasting no time with their newly awarded Human Advancement powers by formerly submitting requests for various jurisdictional authorities on the planet Mímir. “We will be assuming authority over all Organic Quantum research, collection and processing.” Hygeia CEO Yctra Ouiah asserted.

Given territorial disputes with the Union, Universal Council consensus struggles and shifting corporate power shifts, many being interviewed have agreed the era of the Einsen Bridge is well underway.

Empire Storyline

From the Minister of Knowledge
High Lord Mathias Voden, Minister of Knowledge.

Glory to The Empire. It is with great honor to serve the Imperator as the first Minister of Knowledge. I transmit this to you on the surface of Mímir where Lady Sakura Kogawa and I have been accompanying the Intelligence Minister, Lord Venthe Etruscus. Duties have been transferred to me to establish planetside a research facility and relay station for the newly found Irenic Einsen Bridge. I have appointed Lady Sakura Kogawa temporary deputy authority to accelerate operations until all is established and well in order.

It is worth noting, unlike our counterparts, no conflict has emerged regarding His Excellency’s sovereign right to access the Mímir’s orbit, skies, seas, and terrain. Imperial Knowledge facilities, along with intelligence functions, are already making progress in establishing communications uplinks, laboratory infrastructure, and provisional measures. This report is further evidence of His Excellency’s superiority.

The Imperium steps into a new dawn with the data that will be collected here and His Excellency, along with His Imperium, will further demonstrate galactic supremacy.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

The Health of the Union

Dr. Jase Yosen, Steward of Health

Members of the Union, it is with great humility to serve you as the first Steward of Health. I do not forget my station as a Unionist equal and sworn clinician of this great Union’s wellbeing. I will do my utmost to set a precedent worthy of future Stewards who will succeed me. There are a great many questions to be investigated as we collectively learn together and unlock the mysteries before us.

It is the anticipation of the future that will be the foundation of my new post. My first order of discussion that I will bring to the next Union Council session will be to improve your wellbeing. It is my mission that this post leaves you improved, in body and mind, more than when it arrived.

Thank you again and be well.

Heads held high.

Chapter 6.1: Mid-Reform

Fourth Step of Interfaction Reformation Solutions

Transgalactic report 65.7.512, Universal Council

Clear progress has been made regarding the Multilateral Irenic Einsen Bridge Task Force. Following is a brief message from Universal Council member, Áurea Adonis:

Discussions continue with the chosen Federation delegates, as was voted by majority decision, and the operational framework for the Multilateral Task Force is nearing completion. The work done by all factions has resulted in increased unity and cooperation. This council would like to extend deep gratitude for such unifying efforts. The security of the galaxy grows as collaboration takes root in all interfactional conduct.

In the near future, the Universal Council, on behalf of the Federation, will present candidates to lead the Multilateral Irenic EB Task Force. This will mark the beginning of a new chapter in EB research as we search for answers and historic findings that will propel all humankind forward.

With this clarification, we move on to ongoing trans-factional reformation. The first half of the reorganization voting has concluded while each faction continues its respective reformation process. Stemming from disruptive Einsen Bridge events, the Empire, Federation, and Union are establishing their respective leadership positions. This will be the fourth position selected. Each faction will total six new leadership roles, all with the intent of better representing the people across the galaxy.

For further details, consult your faction story channel.

Federation Storyline

Fourth EB Era Regulatory Committee Up for Selection
Elueia Esterea, Finance & Economy Correspondent, Takeyon Reports

For many, the most important reformation REBEAT contracts are now up for grabs. The elimination process has been more extensive than previous reformation contract rounds. The Department of Intelligence processed five rounds of elimination before arriving at the final two candidates. The Galactic Defense Commission processed three rounds. For this position, the regulatory committee charged with awarding finance and treasury contracts, The Federal Bank, processed thirteen rounds of elimination before arriving at the two finalists: Republic Technologies and Maelstrom-Enomics.

Republic Tech is a logical finalist having proven its mettle by providing critical infrastructure enabling our civilized way of life. Serving as the flagship vessel for all voting activity in the Federation, RT has maintained this role longer than any other entity in history. Their ability to provide a balanced, near-zero-bias operation model is unmatched among countless self-serving competitors. Should Republic Tech secure The Fed Bank’s contracts, our financial matters will be in fair and transparent hands. That said, theirs are not the most forward thinking of hands. RT has been known to fall behind the curve when it comes to reacting to the Federation’s ever-evolving ways of life. Collecting votes doesn’t change much but managing financial instruments can sometimes shift direction as often as the wind blows.

Maelstrom-Enomics offers a compelling alternative. This finalist has a history of swimming against the current with unshrinking courage. When no one else would fill the market void for elderly care, risk-laden insurance, and pension programs, it was this corporation that stepped up. Maelstrom has cut through perilous waters, entering markets fraught with either self-destructive manipulation or profitless charity. An organization like that, armed with financial authorities, leaves a feeling of confidence if maybe a bit self-indulgent. If there were to be a flaw, it would be internal extravagance. Should The Fed Bank grant contracts, sustainable confidence should abound, for decades if not generations, and Maelstrom would celebrate that all along the way.

Whichever you favor, be sure to exercise your right to cast a vote.

Empire Storyline

Formation of the Ministry of Security
Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Glycon.

Glory to the Empire. It is with great honor that House Glycon announces the origin and enforcement of the Imperial Ministry of Security. This Ministry will dutifully hold authority in matters of defense and law enforcement, in accordance with His Premiere Dynast, Imperator Solas. This acute designation is the fourth of six ministries that will be formed to aid the Imperial Senate's continued confirmation of Imperial dominance across the galaxy. This day is no different than the time before it. Our great Empire is unmatched and will continue to be so as the selection period begins for the first to bear the duties of Minister of Security.

Through the wisdom of His Excellency, an esteemed highborn will be appointed from either House Va-Halet or House Praetor to direct operations and, as such, one of two potential candidates will be selected: Lord Hakar Va-Halet or Captain Léo Praetor. Both contribute impeccable service to The Empire and the final choice will navigate unprecedented eventualities including the protection of the study and exploration of Einsen Bridges.

Lord Va-Halet prides himself in coming to His Excellency’s side more rapidly than any other great House. There are few with his combat experience who are more loyal to Imperial supremacy. That said, some interpret his assertive reactions as cynical.

Captain Praetor, on the other hand, is anchored in consideration as much as he is in action. No force in this life or beyond is capable of uprooting Léo’s resolve. This can be to a fault with the occasional record of temperamental behavior, albeit from Leo’s steadfast Imperial convictions.

You may now express your favor toward one party over the other.

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

Your Contribution to Protection, Our Ethic of Safety

Despite the Federation’s illegal intrusion of Unionist rights, further and thorough deliberation continues among the Vox, tribes, and many public polls to assemble our great Union's Code of Ethics. This Unionist Code guides us, a forward-minded people, as we navigate this new era of the Einsen Bridge. Your efforts are recognized frequently during these difficult times. The burdens suffered by one are alleviated by all. It is with high expectation that today continues our path toward reformation and a strong foundation that will last for countless generations to come.

To cultivate understanding, our fourth Code of Ethics facilitates all matters of defense, security, and leadership accountability. This reflects the critical necessities of balance, justice, and civil assurances now until the end of time. As with Expression and Information, the Ethic of Safety is nurtured by its Steward aboard the Bastion. They will rotate in to serve the duties of their stewardship just as they do now for home and shareland.

Chosen at random are two candidates for Steward of Safety: Emmet of the Faceless and Laban Ark of the Twin Suns. Emmet’s credentials all point to equitability, fairness, and candor. He is something of a Union legend, having traversed Union space along with his fellow Faceless, always aiding those in need. Few within the Union have a more just disposition than Emmet. This is well known despite his path to leadership being less well-understood than that of others. How Emmet came to lead the motley crew known as the Faceless is unknown, however. Even his identity is a mystery: was Emmet born within the Union or did he defect from one of the other factions? No records confirm one possibility or the other–but then, that is often the woeful state of Union affairs, isn’t it? To this day, no one knows the face behind Emmet’s mask–save for his fellow Faceless, of course.

Our other candidate is Captain Laban Ark. An intuitive, confident Unionist with harrowing marks during the Ojin-Kai assault on Vargas. Navigating uncertain circumstances and with no time to act, Laban revised his marching orders and reversed fortunes, saving the lives of dozens of Vargas miners as well as a vital shipment of ore scheduled for Unionist supply lines. It is this intuition that’s capable of leading the new establishment of Union security across our populated systems. This is not discounted, I assure you, by Laban’s inconsequential, presumptuous bearing. Some say presumptuous, others mark it as confident.

Join us as we select the first Steward of Safety and embark on a journey of enlightenment and usher in a new age.

Your called-upon Present Leader, Aish Fenix

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Phase 4 Votes of Reform in This New Age of the Einsen Bridge

Transgalactic report 68.7.512, Universal Council

Each interstellar faction has selected the fourth of multiple official appointments designed to strengthen their position in these uncertain times. The results are as follows:
Empire:

Hakar Va-Halet as Minister of Security - 64.51% Imperial favor

Léo Praetor as Minister of Security - 35.49% Imperial favor

Federation:

Award finance contracts to Republic Technologies - 63.69% of the votes

Award finance contracts to Maelstrom Economics - 36.31% of the votes

Union:

Emmet as Steward of Safety - 58.27% of the votes

Laban Ark as Steward of Safety - 41.73% of the votes

Other relevant reports:

As of this transmission, probes entering the Irenic Einsen Bridge return degraded, badly malfunctioning, warped or do not return at all. It is unknown what is causing this. However, once the formation of the Multilateral Irenic EB Task Force is complete, there will be an urgent focus to remedy these issues.

Chapter 6.2: Mid-Reform

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

Is the New Federal Bank Contractor the Winner or Reluctant Recipient?
Jyo Cshu, Xeikil Chief Economist, Op-Ed – Finance Sphere, a Novum auxiliary

The Federal Bank may be in for a difficult fiscal cycle. Perhaps congratulations are in order to Republic Technologies. But perhaps condolences are more appropriate.

If there was only one economic indicator these days, it would be any and all news coming out of Mímir and the progress being made to answer questions of quantum, organic quantum, EB stability, and identifying characteristics. Basically, can Mímir—and its history-changing effects—be controlled? While financial contracts may have been handed out, the answer to this question is capable of leaving said contracts in utter ruin.

Despite bonus Union cooperation research, efforts are off to a rocky start. Reopening subterranean access to the still-buried Cradle has proven difficult. Maybe progress would meet expectations if this was an ordinary cave on Vargas but before a single spade can pierce dirt a thousand scientists must verify and reverify that the dirt won’t explode, or the spade for that matter.

So what of the “Irenic Einsen Bridge”? A term cooked up by Universal Council reps as though a label will prevent power mongering by the very mongers of power charged to study it. The potential for this single discovery could render the value of any financial contracts innumerable. The only problem is nearly every probe sent through this treasure tunnel returns unusable or fails to return at all.

So before we pat the backs of The Fed Bank’s contractor, we look to answers that are proving more difficult to come by than first thought. Thus, we continue to hold our breaths and clutch our bank accounts.

Empire Storyline

Superior Imperial Security Already Being Demonstrated
High Lord Hakar Va-Halet, Minister of Security.

Glory to The Empire. It is with great honor I to broadcast this first Security Report. The evident might and presence of Imperial research and investigation teams have arrived, safely and securely, and are progressing on Mímir, without incident.

Unlike our counterparts, no conflict has emerged regarding His Excellency’s sovereign right to access the planet’s orbit, skies, seas, and terrain. Imperial Security along with intelligence functions are already making progress in establishing shelter, checkpoints, and provisional measures.

Focus is also split between Mímir, now acting as a secured base of operations, and the study of the Irenic Einsein Bridge, which is located closest to Mímir. There have been an amusing amount of feeble disruptions on the part of the Federation and Union. A squabble only worth addressing when their bickering impedes our productivity. They have been made aware of the need to eliminate such petulance, and have submitted to reason. As such, security remains without incident.

This report is further evidence of His Excellency’s superiority.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

Our Re-emphasis of Security
Emmet, Steward of Safety

On behalf of Unionist security and our fellow Steward of Knowledge, I extend gratitude to one and all who have contributed to enforcing this faction’s right to research efforts on and near the planet Mímir.

While the Mímir peacekeeping and research progress is being made in sites of interest, as Steward, it is my responsibility to report that progress is slow but deliberate. Many factors must be considered including preventing the accidental trigger of another Einsen Bridge event. As a result, the primary mission for our on-site teams is to determine how these Einsen Bridges can potentially be triggered. This, in turn, ensures how to prevent such a trigger.

The Union does not shy away from challenges. As such, stand with me as we progress forward and lead civilization to new heights.

Heads held high.

,

Chapter 7.1: The MIEB Task Force

Reform Paused To Elect EB Task Force Leader

Transgalactic report 77.7.512, Mandla Bankole, Universal Council

To all in the galaxy, a great challenge is set before us. Probes traversing through the Irenic Einsen Bridge return badly degraded, warped or do not return at all. After carefully examining the returning probes, scientists are calling it “accelerated entropy”.

Accelerated entropy causes unpredictable disruption on a quantum level. This is different from radiation, where cells simply break down. Accelerated entropy can cause atoms, molecules, and cells to behave in an infinite number of ways, which includes nothing. There is currently no way of predicting the behavior until the moment it happens. This is often followed by what can only be described as accelerated entropy. Also known as partial or full disintegration. This leads us to a concentrated, multilateral efforts to solve this complex problem.

Talks and negotiations have concluded in regard to the Multilateral EB Gateway Task Force (MIEB-GTF) or MIEB. Due to the interfactional vote of stardate 39.7.512, the Federation formally received preference for leading the MIEB Task Force.

To determine the specific individual to lead this task force, each faction will cast a vote between two Federation candidates. In no particular order, the candidates are Dr. Yyuri Takada PhD, DDiv, of the Federation conglomerate Hygeia Systems, and Dr. Helena Barnhardt PhD, DDiv, of Eve-N Technologies.

According to negotiated, interfactional agreement, candidate information has been supervised, edited and curated by neutral parties of the Universal Council. Full transparency and balance is the primary focus. Setting aside all bias and prejudice, the Universal Council deems each candidate equal. It is up to the voting population of each faction to determine the election. Please read all provided information before casting your factional vote.

For further details, consult your faction story channel.

Federation Storyline

REBEAT Paused To Nominate A MIEB Task Force Finalist
Nelor Noersadoal, Editor & Chief, Takeyon Reports

As interfactional efforts continue researching the Irenic Einsen Bridge Gateway, leaders are hard at work establishing a multilateral framework for transgalactic scientific cooperation. As a result, a number of candidates have been nominated, from each faction, to lead the faction-neutral Multilateral EB Gateway Task Force (MIEB-GTF) or MIEB Task Force.

In the effort to minimize all bias and prejudice, it is the responsibility of this publication to broadcast candidate information, which has been supervised, edited and curated by neutral parties of the Universal Council. With full transparency and balance is the primary focus, the Universal Council deems all candidates to be considered equal. Please read all provided information before casting your vote:

Dr. Yyuri Takada

Dr. Yyuri Takada, PhD, DDiv is a Chief Science Officer at Hygeia Systems. She oversees a wide range of scientific operations spanning logistics to holographic fingernail implants. With no one person at the helm of all of Hygeia’s operations, some wonder if its unorthodox structure is flexible leadership or a gateway to haphazard dispersion. In short: Dr. Yyuri Takada is innovative but less systematic.

Dr. Helena Barnhardt

Dr. Helena Barnhardt, PhD, DDiv is the Chief Science Officer at Eve-N Technologies. She is methodical and personable, and well-versed in diplomacy, welcoming partners and competitors alike. This lowers one’s guard to better accept the doctor’s rigidity, which is beneficial for protocol but disadvantaged against rapid change. In short: Dr. Helena Barnhardt is diplomatic but rigid.

Whichever you favor, be sure to exercise your right to cast a vote.

Empire Storyline

Imperial Reform Paused To Set Foreign Precedent
From House Voden

Glory to The Empire. The scientific supremacy of our Einsen Bridge research remains unmatched as well as Imperial generosity to allow foreign assistance. It is this generosity that is on display by selecting a finalist for a role best titled “chief servant to Imperial endeavors”.

The full extent of this generosity is on display as the candidates are foreigners of non-Imperial descent. The following is a text describing each candidate. This text has received Imperial blessing. There is no need for partisan language, given the apparent and superior choice. The two candidates are as follows:

Dr. Yyuri Takada

Dr. Yyuri Takada, PhD, DDiv is a Chief Science Officer at Hygeia Systems. She oversees a wide range of scientific operations spanning logistics to holographic fingernail implants. With no one person at the helm of all of Hygeia’s operations, some wonder if its unorthodox structure is flexible leadership or a gateway to haphazard dispersion. In short: Dr. Yyuri Takada is innovative but less systematic.

Dr. Helena Barnhardt

Dr. Helena Barnhardt, PhD, DDiv is the Chief Science Officer at Eve-N Technologies. She is methodical and personable, and well-versed in diplomacy, welcoming partners and competitors alike. This lowers one’s guard to better accept the doctor’s rigidity, which is beneficial for protocol but disadvantaged against rapid change. In short: Dr. Helena Barnhardt is diplomatic but rigid.

With the clear choice now abundantly presented, you may express your favor toward one choice over the other.

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

Code of Ethics Election Paused In The Name Of Irenism

Unionists, we arrive at a moment in the name of the irenic, multi-factional study of an Einstein-Rosen Bridge. It is a moment of great delicacy. It is a moment where we face focused advancement against equal gain. Each case is beneficial but only one is certain. The factionally balanced members of the Universal Council have narrowed a list of potential candidates to lead the Multilateral EB Gateway Task Force (MIEB-GTF) or MIEB Task Force.

The Vox is duty-bound to share with our collective candidate information, which has been supervised, edited and curated by neutral parties of the Universal Council. With full transparency and balance is the primary focus, the Universal Council deems all candidates to be considered equal. Please read all provided information before casting your vote:

Dr. Yyuri Takada

Dr. Yyuri Takada, PhD, DDiv is a Chief Science Officer at Hygeia Systems. She oversees a wide range of scientific operations spanning logistics to holographic fingernail implants. With no one person at the helm of all of Hygeia’s operations, some wonder if its unorthodox structure is flexible leadership or a gateway to haphazard dispersion. In short: Dr. Yyuri Takada is innovative but less systematic.

Dr. Helena Barnhardt

Dr. Helena Barnhardt, PhD, DDiv is the Chief Science Officer at Eve-N Technologies. She is methodical and personable, and well-versed in diplomacy, welcoming partners and competitors alike. This lowers one’s guard to better accept the doctor’s rigidity, which is beneficial for protocol but disadvantaged against rapid change. In short: Dr. Helena Barnhardt is diplomatic but rigid.

Join us as we select the rightful leader of the Multilateral EB Gateway Task Force and embark on a journey of enlightenment and usher in a new age.

Your called-upon Present Leader, Aish Fenix

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Leader of the Multilateral EB Gateway Task Force

Transgalactic report 81.7.512, Áurea Adonis, Universal Council

After much deliberation to solve the challenge of traversing the EB gateway with all life and equipment intact, we arrive at the moment where all sovereign factions select a leader of the Multilateral EB Gateway Task Force. This task force will be charged with the study of the Einsen Bridge and the unpredictable Accelerated Entropy that occurs when passing through the spacetime threshold.

This is the central challenge that prevents human exploration into the other side of the Irenic Einsen Bridge. As a party to the neutral Universal Council, I invite everyone, on behalf of all sovereign factions, to join us as we take on this challenge synchronously.

The results are as follows:

Dr. Yyuri Takada is elected to lead the Multilateral Irenic EB Task Force.

Dr. Takada as MIEB Task Force leader. - 3 (Empire, Federation, Union)
Dr. Barnhardt as MIEB Task Force leader. - 0 ()

Empire:

Dr. Takada as MIEB leader - 68.2% Imperial favor

Dr. Barnhardt as MIEB leader - 31.8% Imperial favor

Federation:

Dr. Takada as MIEB leader - 61.16% of the votes

Dr. Barnhardt as MIEB leader - 38.84% of the votes

Union:

Dr. Takada as MIEB leader - 57.63% of the votes

Dr. Barnhardt as MIEB leader - 42.37% of the votes

Other relevant reports:

The Universal Council is learning of reports regarding fugitives associated with the Crimson Wolves. It is unknown at this time if these are the same individuals confirmed to have been consumed by the anomalous EB events. A Universal Council representative has been dispatched to personally investigate and report back findings. Action will be taken to apprehend and question these individuals in cooperation with the appropriate authorities possessing jurisdiction. More will be reported as the situation develops.

Chapter 7.2: The MIEB Task Force

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

MIEB Leader Announced, Imperator Solas Lashes Out
Aisden Riley, Core Systems Editor OpEd – Novarim, a Novaros division

The votes are in and, through universal voting, the galaxy has selected Dr. Yyuri Takada, PhD, DDiv from Hygeia Systems. Federalists across occupied and colonized bodies are abuzz at the promise of pulling back the veil of mysteries the Irenic Einsen Bridge is hiding. Based on the limited footage that’s survived crossing the threshold, explorers and entrepreneurs are lining up making territorial claims and drawing up deeds of possession despite the three sectors sluggishly deliberating legislation to satisfy natural rights and fair justice. The risks seem to pale in comparison to promise and the energy exceeds capacity, one might say.

That is to say not everyone is excited about the founding of the MIEB Task Force. Our solitary friend, Imperator Solas, has once again dragged out Trust Minister Venthe Etruscus—an already tired name—to solicit gossip about the origins of the first anomalous events and point his bony finger at the Federation. I assume he possesses actual evidence this time? Surely, this ministerial arm flailing isn’t motivated by jealousy that the Federation was selected to lead MIEB, right? Maybe then, perhaps, it’s because the good doctor announced a partnership with Unionist and discoverer of the Irenic EB, Hayden Blunt, which has left Lord Bony Fingers out in the cold entirely. I’m sure it’s just my imagination.

The thinly veiled, woefully unsubstantiated accusations are nothing more than amusement in this climate of patriotism and federal pride. Not even a self-proclaimed ancient-fashioned deity (little “d”) can shake the morale of this great faction. The galaxy will be further understood, further detailed, and further expanded under the Federation’s leadership, and it comes in the form of a one Dr. Yyuri Takada, PhD, DDiv and no dusty empire has a chance to stop it.

Empire Storyline

From the Minister of Trust, To A Federation Unworthy Of Trust
High Lord Venthe, House Etruscus

In light of the Federation forming an inferior Einsen Bridge study group, a warning must be heeded. The self-conflicting federal collective may claim cooperation in the name of honor but it rings hollow. In truth, it is an attempt to distract. The Federation's theatrics betray them as His Excellency points to the true matter at hand: How did the original, anomalous events occur?

Many natural questions are asked across the galaxy. However, the Federation willingly ignores such questions and knowingly misdirects attention to a farcical parade of power mongering conglomerates. The Empire does not relent. How did these anomalies occur? Why now? And what are the possibilities behind their behavior? Reasonable inquiries are met with an unusually quiet response from our friends in the Federation. The Ministry of Trust bears an indelible duty to press for truth from those unwilling to disclose it.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Trust bears more than inquiries of foreign shrouds. It bears the means to satisfy inquiries with undeniable truth, voluntarily or otherwise. Let this be a clear word of diligence. Answers will surface and the Empire will, as is its right, measure in perpetuity.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

From the Minister of Trust, To Loyal Imperial Subjects
High Lord Venthe, House Etruscus

Glory to the Empire and those who loyally serve it. This transmission comes to you as a beacon of trust and goodwill. Take it with relief, knowing not all are given the privilege. Those who stood by the Imperator, in solidarity against the Universal Council’s attempt to force foreign selection onto His Excellency’s Imperial leaders, have demonstrated an intelligence beyond such foreign intellectual intrusions. Sometimes, a refusal to take part is an acceptance of love from your Imperator. Be commended and blessed for demonstrating this truth.

Grace for the foreign is not lost either. A purpose is granted to all and a generosity is extended to Dr. Takada to assist Imperial efforts in Einsen Bridge research. It is this service that leads to optimal effort and the greatest outcome. It is a service worthy of esteemed record.

A special commendation is also reserved for the Imperial Ministry of Knowledge. Einsen Bridge research has made great strides. New technologies, applications, and industries are emerging due to direct Imperial learnings. Efforts by High Lord Voden, his Imperial staff planetside on Mímir, and research crews orbiting the Irenic Einsen Bridge are setting a precedent worthy of His Excellency’s standard.

This day is no different than the time before it. The Empire’s greatness stands alone in depth and breadth. Those who serve will continue basking in its greatness. Those who do not, will wish they had.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

A Message from the Federalist MIEB Task Force Leader
Aish Fenix, Your called-upon Present Leader

Ladies and gentlemen of our great Union, this occasion, at an early moment in our new Einsen Bridge era, is marked by the formation of a Multilateral Irenic Einsen Bridge Task Force, whose sole task is to research the mysterious wormhole, known as the Irenic Einsen Bridge, for the purpose of all humankind regardless of age, creed, affiliation, or faction.

Clearly, the preference would be for this task force to be led by a Unionist. However, through fair and just means, it is the Federation’s time to carry the mantle, but the foundation does not stop there. It has been confirmed an accord has been reached where Dr. Takada and her MIEB Task Force will work in partnership with our Steward of Information, Captain Hayden Blunt, who discovered the location of the Irenic Einsen Bridge. Captain Blunt and her research crew are already well established planetside on Mímir as well as in IEB orbit. Collaboration will begin at once.

This coalition marks a new chapter of discovery. Join us as we forge ahead and discover together.

Heads held high.

Chapter 8.1: Near Reform

Fifth Step of Interfaction Reformation Solutions

Transgalactic report 9.8.512, Trice Chavos, Universal Council

The galaxy has an energy of agency. New leadership across the galaxy is rising with a sense of deep fulfillment. Something deep, not just a fleeting satisfaction, nor a passing distraction. What is culminating within each of the factions is an obligated fulfillment, complete with a rare balance of simultaneous burden and achievement. This historic change is owed to humanity. An overwhelming challenge has revealed itself in the form of an impassable threshold, blocking an unrealized potential for all of us… within all of us, and it has called for— nay, it has demanded change.

This element of change has been with us for some time now. What is changing keeps changing, which has become normal. What was normal has been replaced by more change, but we answer the call. We reveal ourselves, against overwhelming challenges, and we choose reform. New leadership to answer the demand, to represent a new voice, and it speaks of deep fulfillment.

This new voice of change continues its song of trans-factional reform, as it nears completion across all settlement and planetary systems. The Empire, Federation, and Union are establishing respective leadership positions. This will be the fifth position selected. Each faction will total six new leadership roles, all with the intent of better representing the people across the galaxy in this new age of the Einsen Bridge.

For further details, consult your faction story channel.

Federation Storyline

REBEAT Continues With New Regulator: Communication Commission
Ohn Makyo, Reporter, Takeyon Reports

REBEAT contracts continue to shape a new Federation. Uphill battles and difficulties riddle the process as regulatory contracts are pushed through and considerations are selectively filtered. As such, the intent continues with the fifth round of reformation contracts, this time from the Communication Commission. The two considerations are Novum Group and Novaros Corporation.

Novum is an established conglomerate with many influencers, both elected and hired, in their pockets. You will not find a Federation influencer that did not have their path paved by favorable coverage on Novum’s dilated portfolio of media outlets.

Novaro is the flashy edge case. Useful whenever Novum favoritism is not granted. A strategy of disruption and fringe thinking keeps attention on their equally inflammatory collection of brand-focused communication channels.

Both struggled to cover Einsen Bridge events as they happened. Perhaps an injection of government funds will help develop media integrity.

Be sure to vote.

UPDATE: Regarding the large amount of inquiries: Unfortunately you cannot vote for Takeyon LLC as a write-in.

Empire Storyline

Formation of the Ministry of Wealth
Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Glycon.

Greetings and glory to the Empire. It is with great honor that House Glycon announces the origin and enforcement of the Imperial Ministry of Wealth. This Ministry will dutifully hold authority in matters of labor and treasury, in accordance with His Premiere Dynast, Imperator Solas. This acute designation is the penultimate ministry position that will be formed to aid the Imperial Senate's continued confirmation of imperial dominance in the galaxy. This day is no different than the time before it. Our great empire is unmatched and will continue to be so as the selection period begins for the first to bear the duties of Minister of Wealth.

Through the wisdom of His Excellency, an esteemed highborn will be appointed from House Aurelian to direct operations and, as such, the potential will be either Lady Nona Levidis or High Lady Sophia Aurelian. Both contribute flawless service to The Empire and the final choice will navigate unprecedented eventualities including the financing of Einsen Bridge exploration.

Lady Levidis is as astute a financier as any to be found across the Imperium. Her efforts in estimating and allocating funds for recovery efforts after the cataclysmic EB events speak for themselves. Her main struggles have been the questioning of her birth. How can such a minor house produce abilities of this caliber? Her intelligence is only matched by her level of obsession, a double-edged sword regarding matters that exceed her station. In matters of money, perhaps the only citizen to match Lady Levidis is High Lady Aurelian herself, who led post-EB recovery efforts and provided the stature needed to reach His Excellency’s high expectations. The heir apparent to House Aurelian as well as the woman holding the keys to the Imperial coffers, her standing leaves a mark on every path she pursues. In fact, there is difficulty tracking the volume of paths she is pursuing. This captious regimen will never be mistaken as tranquil.

You may now express your favor toward one party over the other.

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

Code of Ethics Continues With Our Contribution To Resource And Provision

Together we continue to assemble our great Union's Code of Ethics. This Code is to guide us as we navigate the era of the Einsen Bridge. Your efforts are recognized and lightened when shouldered by many. It is with great hope that today serves as further easing through the formation of a strong foundation that will last for countless generations to come.

With that said, our foundation is nearing completion with the fifth Code of Ethics being ratified to officially facilitate all matters of labor, agriculture, raw material acquisition, and finance.This again is indicative of the other Ethics codified before it. Its etching into our records ensures our future pursuits now until the end of time. The Ethic of Resource is nurtured by its Steward aboard the Bastion. They will rotate in to serve the duties of their stewardship just as they do now for home and shareland.

Chosen at random are two candidates for Steward of Resource: Sethra Goodrun of X-36 Co-Operative and Asura Welde of Saruken XII. Sethra needs no introduction. Her warm approachability is a long-time hallmark of the collective efforts here on the Bastion as well as many service announcement broadcasts that keep all Unionists informed. Such wise, communicative experience is a welcome addition to meeting the demands of supporting an entire civilization.

Asura Welde is the reason we can traverse the various occupied systems. The Saruken XII can build a quality space-worthy vessel in less time than it takes to fill out the forms. It was she and her team who modified and upgraded the USV Panopea before Sera Varse’s historic mission to Mímir. Such expedient talent requires grit and tenacity. You are better served getting out of her way, whenever the Union needs her services.

Join us as we select the first Steward of Resource and embark on a journey of enlightenment and usher in a new age.

Your called-upon Present Leader, Aish Fenix

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Phase 5 Votes of Transgalactic Reform in This New Age of the Einsen Bridge

Transgalactic report 12.8.512, Moira Craine, Universal Council

Each interstellar faction has selected the fifth of multiple official appointments designed to strengthen their position in these uncertain times.

The results are as follows:
Empire:

Nona Levidis as Minister of Wealth - 61.44% Imperial favor

Sophia Aurelian as Minister of Wealth - 38.56% Imperial favor

Federation:

Award communications contracts to Novum - 65.49% of the votes

Award communications contracts to Novaros - 34.51% of the votes

Union:

Sethra Goodrun as Steward of Resource - 59.18% of the votes

Asura Welde as Steward of Resource - 40.82% of the votes

Other relevant reports:

A Crimson Wolves crew member, reported missing during the infamous EB occurrence, has been apprehended. Interrogation reveals they have returned from the other side of an EB gateway and Sera Varse is still alive! The situation is still fluid and official transmissions will be documented as they arrive.

Chapter 8.2: Near Reform

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

Controversial Figure Sera Varse Alive On The Other Side

I. Vazieriev, Chief Correspondent, Grey Matter, Novum

It was not a routine day aboard the IEB research station FSS Skłodowska. Various observations slowed, nearly to a halt. Quantum-level experiments were postponed. Transmission relays requests stacked up in a long queue all because of who was being held in the brig.

Horace Austinus is a documented member of the infamous band of criminals known as the Crimson Wolves, the group responsible for many of the problems during the Shockwave. Of all the efforts to learn about Einsen Bridges, no other event has provided such a treasure trove of answers as the apprehension of this fugitive. His arrest gives an immediate answer to one of the most important questions we have: can humans survive the trip to the other side? Apparently, yes. However, there is a catch: We need tech to protect ourselves.

A logical question is, can this criminal be trusted? The answer is less clear but the revelations don’t stop. According to multiple trusted sources, Horace claims Sera Varse is credited for the makeshift tech that was used. Spoilers, folks–Sera Varse is alive and well, not only having survived the trip through an EB but has also made it back to our side. Aren’t we lucky?

News of this will take time to permeate through Federal sectors; the confirmation of whether Sera is actually alive and walking among us will have to wait. Controversy regarding her is well documented, the woman having been the first to study anomalies on Mímir. Her involvement in the death of multiple Federation officers, and responsibility for the cataclysmic anomaly events are still matters of hot debate.

Perhaps more will be revealed and the most likely source will come from the unlikeliest of places: In the depths of the Federal IEB research vessel, The Skłodowska.

Empire Storyline

From the Ministry of Security

High Lord Hakar Va-Halet, Minister of Security

Glory to The Empire. Honor to His Excellency. It may come as a surprise that news of the Irenic Einsen Bridge would come from the Imperial Ministry of Security. No other was more surprised than I to learn a member of the Crimson Wolves has been apprehended near the Irenic Einsen Bridge. After processing, and as a desperate plea for mercy, the enemy of the Imperium had much to disclose. After ramblings of the Unionist Blunder, Sera Varse, and misgivings about the terrorist Montez Lycanis, the weak-willed thief gave useful information about person and crew traveling through an Einsen Bridge without harm.

This news has been passed on to the Imperial Ministry of Knowledge for verification and further questioning. This is a momentous occasion and a notable victory for the supremacy of His Excellency’s efforts toward exploring a vast new realm of the universe. The final steps to new worlds are ever closer, and The Imperator’s latest triumph is at hand.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

From the Ministry of Knowledge

Mathias Voden, Minister of Knowledge

A wealth of knowledge has been extracted from a criminal who fled through an Einsen Bridge and returned with potential payment of redemption in the form of scientific findings. Whether His Excellency grants amnesty or not, this payment is already yielding returns as we apply this knowledge to our existing progress. The path to human trials through the Irenic Einsen Bridge is clear to us and preparations are in motion. I also will be in close contact with the newly appointed Minister of Wealth to make plans for economic advancement based on extra-galactic discoveries. It is fortunate our lone efforts have led us down this path. Cooperation with lesser teams have not benefited the Imperium, despite the hopes of said lesser teams.

While assistance, or lack thereof, from the counterpart factions is insufficient, Imperial efforts push forward in further strengthening our presence at the IEB. Once again, The Empire pulls ahead to lead humankind into the future. The Oracle’s guidance resonates through The Imperator. Let its song lead you to your future as you serve His Excellency and grasp the present moment firmly.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

Regarding The Development Of Sera Varse

Cpt. Hayden Blunt, Steward of Information

Fellow Unionists, by now, it is no doubt you have heard of reports that Sera Varse is alive. It can be confirmed she has arrived in Union space and has been summoned to the Bastion to speak to Vox leadership as well as the Ethical Stewards

I am aware of the endless questions we all have. No one is more curious than I about what Ms. Varse has experienced and how her experiences can help our efforts with traveling through the Irenic Einsen Bridge safely. Much will be discovered and clarity will come in due time. For now, on behalf of the Vox and our present leader, Aish Fenix, our request from you is patience.

Time is needed to receive the information undoubtedly Sera has for us and time will be needed to document it, verify the necessary details and relay it back to the great Unionist collective. We thank you in advance for fulfilling this request. We are maximizing our efforts to get this right the first time and to reach the standard you deserve. Eyes ever forward.

Heads held high.

Chapter 9.1: A Full Roster

Final Step of Interfaction Reformation

Transgalactic report 16.8.512, Trice Chavos, Universal Council

With the appointment of the Imperial Minister of Wealth, awarding of Federation communications contracts, and selection of Union Steward of Resource, we come to the final stage of the reformation for better representation throughout the Core Systems.

Though the final round of leadership position selection has yet to conclude, humanity’s progress waits for no one. Thanks to the ongoing efforts of the joint Faction MIEB Task Force, an unprecedented experimental event is set to take place that will propel humanity into the next great epoch of scientific advancement and space exploration. Dr. Takada has handpicked a team of researchers and Faction leaders to take the first manned mission through the IEB aboard the vaunted science research vessel, the FSS Skłodowska.

As we stand on the precipice of intergalactic travel, unexpected events involving EBs persist. We have received reports claiming Sera Varse survived her unsanctioned EB experiment. Her whereabouts are currently unknown, yet rumors are circulating that she has had contact with the Vox aboard the Bastion. What is clear is the attempt to keep her whereabouts a continued mystery by as of yet unknown actors. Requests for her immediate return to Council custody have been placed with the Vox if she makes contact. Regardless of her successful gamble with the lives of millions, Commander Varse is subject to a Universal Council tribunal for failure to obey a lawful order, as is every officer assigned to the council.

The interrogation of the Crimson Wolves crew member who survived the effects of traversing an EB, Horace Austinus, continues to provide us with vital information on a bevy of issues and concerns. Citizens throughout the Core Systems have expressed outrage that this fugitive, who most certainly participated in the ravaging of the Kepler System, has yet to suffer the swift hammer of justice. Imperial requests for his extradition will be acknowledged in due course. Rest assured that he will answer for his crimes, but such things must not detract from the monumental progress humanity is about to make, both scientifically and interfactionally.

Thus, transfactional reform now concludes with this final round of voting across all planetary systems. The Empire, Federation, and Union are one position away from placing all respective leadership positions for the Imperial Ministry, Federal Regulatory Committees, and Code of Ethics respectively. These will be the sixth and final positions selected, all with the intent of better representing the people across the galaxy in this new age of the Einsen Bridge.

For further details, consult your faction story channel.

Federation Storyline

REBEAT Culminates with the Agency of Justice
Ja-syn Wanderfalde, Legal Correspondent, Takeyon Reports

The final round of REBEAT contracts have arrived. While Sector Presidents, in rare unison, sing its praises, time is needed to determine how these regulatory committees will carve their place in history. Without exception is the final set of regulatory REBEAT contracts, which comes from the Federal Agency of Justice.

“With travel through spacetime, we will need to litigate disputes quickly and reach mutual consensus,” 2nd Sector President Aurea Adonis points out, “in a manner that keeps up with the breakneck speed of change that is already bombarding our society.”

“Justinia Solutions and Becker-Tanaka-Schmidt are the Federation’s best candidates.” She goes on to say at a Station Ignis charity dinner.

Few have the pedigree of Justinia Solutions. Counter to many competitor’s attempts to intimidate, Justinia welcomes numerous corporate clients from nearly every market space across Federation space. Many sources confirm they conduct legal affairs that draw you in, rather than repel or cower. While undoubtedly successful, this characteristic is also used against them by competitors, in the form of being too malleable.

Becker-Tanaka-Schmidt on the other hand pulls off a very different but equally impressive feat: they exercise an impartiality to a degree that is unmatched. Even competitors admit to this advantage. It is an advantage they do not rest on either. They leverage their hyper-neutral reputation to pursue uncompromising and sometimes harsh rulings.

Few argue against 2nd Sector President Adonis. These two final REBEAT candidates have the qualifications to lead statutory precedent in the Einsen Bridge era. The only question that remains is, which do you choose?

Ensure your vote is cast in a timely fashion.

Empire Storyline

Formation of the Ministry of Health
Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Glycon.

Glory to the Empire. It is with great honor that House Glycon announces the origin and enforcement of the Imperial Ministry of Health. This Ministry will dutifully hold authority in matters of healthcare as well as overseeing the health of Imperial influence, production, and finance, in accordance with His Premiere Dynast, Imperator Solas. This balancing designation is the sixth and final ministry to be formed to aid the Imperial Senate's continued confirmation of imperial dominance in the galaxy. This day is no different than the time before it. Our great empire is unmatched and will continue to be so as the selection period begins for the first to bear the duties of Minister of Health.

Through the wisdom of His Excellency, an esteemed highborn will be appointed from House Charon-V to direct operations and, as such, one of two potential candidates will be selected: Lord Tarraco Charones or Lady Kallista Iasu. Both contribute impeccable service to His Excellency and the final choice will navigate unprecedented eventualities including the health of experts studying and exploring Einsen Bridges.

Lord Tarraco has an uncanny knack of putting anyone at ease and inspiring them with his tales of service. It is this charisma that has led to expanding Imperial reach and support. A reach that few thought were possible or, in some cases, legal. Lord Tarraco’s excursions may have required exception but he has also been generous in giving exception when those are in need of it from him in turn.

Lady Kallista subscribes to a different perspective in the form of thoroughness. She leaves no stone unturned and no problem is too small for her. In fact, she already has a hand-picked team researching Organic Quantum and has made a breakthrough discovery that it is not Quantum at all. Just don’t ask her about it. She will tell you she’s busy answering other important questions.

You may now express your favor toward one party over the other.

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

Equivalent Justice for All

My fellow Unionists, our Code of Ethics foundation is nearly complete with ratification of our sixth and final Code of Ethics. This Ethic is to officially facilitate all legal matters of justice. This again is indicative of the other Ethics codified before it. Its etching into our records ensures our future pursuits now until the end of time. The Ethic of Civility is nurtured by its Steward aboard the Bastion. They will rotate in to serve the duties of their stewardship just as they do now for home and shareland.

Chosen at random are two candidates for Steward of Civility: Cyth Farrier of Light Hammers and Syndic Kyle Shiv of Protos Syndicate. Cyth is conscientious and attentive. Her hard-working ethic is infectious, causing those around her to rise above their station. As disputes are resolved, Cyth is capable of keeping emotionally impartial in a way that is rarely achieved. This compartmentalization seems to work across all areas of her life.

Syndic Kyle Shiv is apt and judicious. An exemplary Unionist and Bastion court judge. He has spoken to the Vox on behalf of many in need spanning too many topics to list. No challenge is too large for Kyle as even the most stressful situation doesn’t seem to concern him.

Join us as we select the first Steward of Civility and embark on a journey of enlightenment and usher in a new age.

Your called-upon Present Leader, Aish Fenix

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Phase 6 Votes of Transgalactic Reform in This New Age of the Einsen Bridge

Transgalactic report 12.8.512, Universal Council

Each interstellar faction has selected the sixth and final appointment designed to strengthen their position in these uncertain times. The results are as follows:

Empire:

Tarraco Charones as Minister of Health - 57.56% Imperial favor

Kallista Iasu as Minister of Health - 42.44% Imperial favor

Federation:

Award justice contracts to Justinia Solutions - 59.13% of the votes

Award justice contracts to Becker-Tanaka-Schmidt - 40.87% of the votes

Union:

Cyth Farrier as Steward of Civility - 61.69% of the votes

Kyle Shiv as Steward of Civility - 38.31% of the votes

Other relevant reports:

The MIEB Task Force has found success in its latest series of tests with unmanned probes. The drones were sent out one after the other at twelve-hour intervals, each returning unaffected from the journey through the EB. Following this and several other developments,Dr. Takada has made the decision to go ahead with the Task Force's first attempt at human traversal.

Chapter 9.2: A Full Roster

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

Ensuring Substantial Growth into the Future
Daren Matsumoto, Private Welfare Consultant Op-Ed – Maelstrom-Enomics

With the contracts for the Federal Agency of Justice awarded to Justinia Solutions, clarity of security and purpose has finally returned to the Federation, and with impeccable timing. The debacle on the FSS Skłodowska has been promptly remedied with the accepted request and arrival of Universal Council representatives to take over the interrogation of the Crimson Wolves fugitive.

With the distractions to a minimum, the MIEB Task Force can get onto the business of making history while the brightest financial minds across the Federation can get to work on outlining proposals for the profits to be made on the other side of the IEB gateway. The limitless opportunities that potentially await us have anyone worth their portfolio throughout the Core Systems clamoring for ideas on how to efficiently and prudently exploit this situation. The other factions can smell the promise of riches just as much as we can. Unlike us, the only problems they face are their lack of individual freedom, ingenuity in organization, and superior Federal education systems that will ensure our dominance on the other side…and insurance is what we all need, now more than ever.

The Empire clearly thinks we are greedy opportunists rushing into the void with our eyes closed. The Union has worked in lock step with us and their efforts are to be commended, but they would also waste the true value to be had on even the unmotivated amongst us, but we know better. The drive to succeed and build up those around us through the unrivaled freedoms corporate structure has given us is what we’re all about, and why not make a fortune while we’re at it?

Our thoughts and bright investment futures are with the brave team aboard the Sklodowska.

Empire Storyline

From the Ministry of Health
High Lord Tarraco Charones, Minister of Health

Glory to the Empire. The profound honor to lead the Ministry of Health in Imperator Solas’ name inspires to a level that Imperial citizens need not have put into words. I accept the responsibility that comes with being Minister of Health during reports of an ill-planned venture into the Irenic EB gateway by the ever opportunistic and short-sighted Federation-led MIEB Task Force. Without the balanced hand of his Excellency guiding Imperial technology in this questionable endeavor, a whole crew of top researchers will be flung into the void with what amounts to the crossed fingers of an unsteady hand.

On behalf of the Imperium, I have set to work on an emergency proposal to plead with the MIEB Task Force to halt their rush to glory and reconsider Imperial assistance. We here live with the assurance that the Emperor holds the health of Imperial citizens and the Empire in the same regard, and yet he has the depth of compassion to extend this regard to the short-sighted efforts of this “Task Force.” It is folly to deny this Imperial Ministry’s outreached hand, but foreigners cannot be held to the same standard that the Emperor sets for all of us.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

Together, the Future is Ours
Cyth Farrier, Steward of Civility

Members of the Union, I am a woman of few words. With successful traversing of the IEB a near certainty, my first act as Steward of Civility will be to put in place a series of protocols for mutual benefit on the other side of the EB gateways. The great work our scientists have done together with Federation researchers will set the collective momentum of Humanity in the right direction, the direction of cooperation and harmony.

Any and all resources mined from the endless number of bountiful planets will be shared with all. At the same time, this prosperity will put the Union in a position to dictate reason and fairness to the Universal Council like never before in our dealings with the other factions. But first, shoulders back and hands to the work.

Heads held high.

Chapter 10.1: Tragedy

A Great Burden

Transgalactic report 23.08. 512, President Kim Lee, Universal Council

Members of the galactic community,

It is my great burden to report on the tragedy that struck the joint Faction MIEB Task Force. As many of you will know, our joint efforts have borne many fruits in past weeks–the collaboration between our three governments has given all of us fresh hope of peace and prosperity for all of humanity. Dr. Takada, as leader of the project, believed that the data gathered by probes and scientific instruments offered more than enough for the Task Force to proceed onto the next stage–a manned journey to the other side and back. Researchers developed a new shielding system under her guidance, a shimmering white veil whose purpose was to counter the effects of the Einsen Bridge’s accelerated entropy field. These designs were sent to her colleagues from the Empire and Union and approved by independent committees before their installation aboard the ship.

The FSS Skłodowska, one of the UC’s most celebrated science vessels, was chosen to helm the mission. A dedicated team of scientists served on-board, hand-picked by Takada. In addition, a number of dignitaries representing each faction volunteered to take the ship on her maiden voyage across the Bridge. Chief among them were Hayden Blunt, the Union’s Steward of Information, as well as a personal friend of mine, Patrice Zidane, the CIO of OTK Comms. It was to be a moment of triumph for us all. Instead, it has become a tragedy.

As soon as the ship returned from the other side of the Einsen Bridge, its failure in responding to Ground Control’s hails led those on the ground to believe interference from the entropy field significantly distorted comms–the same had happened, in a limited capacity, upon the Skłodowska’s descent into the unknown. Perhaps it wouldn’t have been too late to abort then. To guess at the information the crew had to work with is a fool’s errand, however, as even the ship’s blackbox is unrecoverably damaged.

Whether Dr. Takada’s shield designs defended the crew from the field’s aberrant effects or not, not even the Federation’s forensic technology can tell. What is certain is that they failed to protect the ship’s skeleton from the erosion we have observed on smaller unmanned vessels. As the ship approached Mímir, it accelerated and reentry into the planet’s atmosphere tore it to pieces. Much of the debris rained down atop the base the MIEB Task Force used as an observatory –while its exterior was strong enough to withstand the extreme atmospheric conditions of Mímir, it held little defense against the storm of eroded metal that rained down. While joint search continues through the rubble, I’m afraid there is no likelihood of discovering survivors. We only hope there is enough of our people left to bury–and enough data we can scavenge to learn from this mistake.

It is in the darkest hours of any endeavor on the frontiers of science that progress marches painfully but meaningfully forward. We will not roll over and resign ourselves to failure. Individually and collectively, humanity will rise to greater heights than ever before. When we tame the Einsen Bridges, we will do it for the lives lost this day and to ensure that their spirit and sacrifice shall not be in vain.

They died in the name of progress. To mourn them, to honor them…this is our great burden.

And so is seeing to it that their sacrifice makes a difference.

For further details, consult your faction story channel.

Federation Storyline

They Will Be Remembered
Petra Carlyle, Editor-in-Chief, Takeyon Reports

It is the happy reality of my job that I’m rarely forced to put slate to screen and make a statement that will reach countless citizens of the Federation. Following my exposition of the event many of you have come to call the Anomaly Shockwave, I had hoped not to have this dubious honor for a long time to come. But here I am again, as unprepared for today’s tragedy as I was for yesterday’s. You all know what I refer to: The tragic loss of life on Mímir following the MIEB Task Force’s failed Einsen Bridge experiment.

I won’t bore you with platitudes. Were the victims of this catastrophe the best and brightest? I’m sure that’s what the textbooks will say. The truth is, I can’t speak about most, I hardly knew any of the deceased. The woman I did know, though… Patrice Zidane, now that was a force to reckon with. I was never a part of her clique at the renowned Guinn Institute but you didn’t need to be. She was brilliant. A skilled speaker, every bit as good as President Lee–only, her interests went deep into the private sector. She wanted to see how high she could reach. Looking at her balance sheet now, not many ever reached higher. Come to think of it, Pat received Takeyon’s internship offer straight out of the Institute; we’d only ever spoken a few times, but she knew how badly I wanted it, so she passed it on my way. She had the guts to write to the Takeyon recruiter, saying he’d made a mistake, that he wanted the school’s ""star editor"" instead. And, well, you can guess who that was. You have to wonder…If not for that choice–who’s to say if she might not be writing words like these instead?

Let’s not dwell on could-have-beens. If there’s one thing I know, one thing, it’s that the Federation learns its lessons. We’ve been hit hard, hard enough it’s going to sting for a good long while…I’m sure those Imperial snakes at House Glycon are, even now, dragging our faction through the mud for daring to try what they would have been too cowardly to even think of. I can’t talk for any of you but I know I want to see their faces when it’s our techies that make crossing the Einsen Bridges safe.

Having said what needed to be clearly articulated, the Universal Council has posed a question of reflection: With this terrible tragedy hanging upon humanity, we must ask ourselves, is the push for progress worth such terrible loss?

The Union and Empire will have their own answers, but keep this in mind, we’re all Fed and proud for a reason–failure only makes us stronger.

Empire Storyline

A Frustrating Setback
Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Glycon.

Humanity flinches at the collective loss suffered onboard the FSS Skłodowska. Imperial subjects may rest a little easier knowing that the Federation and the Union’s foolishness have saved lives–not of their own, but scientists of House Voden still draw breath where they might not have otherwise. If either faction had not scorned the notion of Imperial assistance, it might have been Mathias Voden, not Hayden Blunt, who would have died. The Union is weaker for it–yet the Empire is magnanimous in its condolences.

But then, how could anyone expect the Federation’s leadership to deliver the much-needed solution to EB travel on the first try? It is no secret their technology needs a thousand iterations before it reaches anything near a working state. Catastrophe was all but warranted when they were given free rein without Imperial oversight. One must wonder, would this tragedy even have occurred if it was the Empire that led the joint effort? Or might all three factions have enjoyed the much less bitter fruit of our labor, under our Emperor’s paternal guidance?

The Empire must have this technology. It is of the greatest significance that the Imperial light be shined across the cosmos–no matter how hard some might try to quash it. Duty itself demands that we conquer the stars. Never forget this. And if the other factions continue to frustrate our exertions to this end–we shall forge humanity’s path ahead on our own. Such is the Empire’s burden.

Having said what we all know to be true, the Universal Council has posed a question of reflection: With this terrible tragedy hanging upon humanity, we must ask ourselves, is the push for progress worth such terrible loss?

Undoubtedly the other factions will have their answers, but do not forget, His Majesty the Emperor has little doubt of your capacity to carry this burden under him

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

The Best of Us
My Union brothers and sisters,

Our loss is insurmountable. Hayden Blunt was the best of us. Our Steward of Information did not serve long–nowhere near as long as she should have–but what she has accomplished in that time cannot be stressed enough. Information has become easier to access now than ever before. Hayden didn’t just invite cooperation between different tribes and clans, she demanded it. The culture of transparency she has fostered will survive her, as will so much more. Mongrel Lars, her deputy and our next Steward of Information, worked more closely with Hayden than anyone. He insisted I share the following with all of you:

It’s not easy, taking your cue from a girl half your age and more. Hayden was spirited, the kind of spirited I didn’t like much, to start with. Her passion–it could’ve thawed an arctic cap. Would have, too, if only she’d gotten it into her mind there was something to learn from the whole experience. I wish I were with her when it happened. Hell, I wish I’d gone in her stead. But I didn’t, and there’s no point thinking about it. What I’ve been thinking about is–she deserves to have her legacy honored. I’ll be making sure it is.

Some fine words from a man who has only too few to spare. We must not let this happen again. Grief is only natural at a time like this–what I ask of you all is to do as I have done, and channel it into aiding the effort to resolve the remaining difficulties before us. The need to protect human life as we venture past the Einsen Bridges is paramount. We’re so close to a breakthrough, so close to developing technology essential to withstanding the EB’s entropic field.

With that said and all of our hearts as one, the Universal Council has posed a question of reflection: With this terrible tragedy hanging upon humanity, we must ask ourselves, is the push for progress worth such terrible loss?

Our partners in this endeavor will have their own thoughts, but remember why we do this: the promise of what awaits beyond will make every sacrifice worth it.

Now more than ever…Keep your head high. Aish

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

A Special Vote on the Cost of Progress in This New Age of the Einsen Bridge

Transgalactic report 37.8.512, Universal Council

Each interstellar faction has expressed its majority view on the tragic MIEB Task Force incident and the push for progress. The results are as follows:

Empire:

The loss was too much. - 51.92% Imperial favor

Sacrifice is necessary - 48.08% Imperial favor

Federation:

Nothing is worth the loss. - 49.05% of the votes

Progress at any cost. - 50.95% of the votes

Union:

The loss is too much to bear. - 41.46% of the votes

Our sacrifice is always worth it. - 58.54% of the votes

Other relevant reports:

Chapter 10.2: Tragedy

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

Reorientation, Part 1 of 2
Brandon Adams, Hygeia Systems Health Correspondent, Novum News

Good sol, Explorers. Progress is relative to the costs for achieving it. Corporations across Federation space are tallying exactly what they lost. But in exchange, Quantum awaits us on the other side of the EBs. Vast amounts of a substance that has been so tightly regulated, you’d never be able to get enough of it for purposes other than FTL travel or advanced weapons. Now, the speculation around the untold amounts of Quantum to be discovered is propelling investment at light speed. The practical among us will see the tragedy as so many other tragedies, as an opportunity.

The Union has done well to give so much in this endeavor. They stood with us and lost some of their own. We must look to the future with our MIEB partners, yes. We must also provide oversight when possible in order to ensure the gains made are channeled to sectors with the highest chances for success. The Union will have its share of the spoils of the EB era, but they may at the same time benefit from proper consultation when so many have given their lives for the advancement of Humanity.

Reorientation, Part 2 of 2

Talk has been gaining traction around a few incendiary theories as to exactly what happened, but I will not throw fuel on the fire today. Yet, it is the Empire, who for all intents and purposes, have sacrificed the least and are the most vocal about what they have done. Yes, they have sent their Healers and their Genetic tech to assist with the wounded and the optics are certainly good. Having said that, I also enjoy the freedom of thought put to speech. The Imperator will want more than what he will get and the Empire will fall over themselves thanking him for it. Emperor Solas is so far removed from the minds a democracy can produce that trying to imagine what goes through his head yields nothing but diminishing returns. Equal opportunity for the individual advancement of all humans is something the Empire will have to come to terms with once we harness EB travel.

With the memories of those lost from the MIEB Task Force in full perspective, let’s refocus on the task at hand and make sure success to our ventures in the age of the Einsen-Bridge is the ultimate historic reference point to these heroes.

Empire Storyline

Loss is a Ladder
From the Chambers of the Ministry of Health

We offered help, they refused. Now we offer to clean up their dead. Nothing pains The Emperor more than sacrifice with nothing to show for it. It is the desire and supreme command of His Excellency that guides me to my honorable purpose in relating to you what the Imperial vote means.

The Federation led this debacle with their contradicting chattering heads and yet they would see this as a victory for themselves. Surely it is thanks to our scientists on the surface of Mimir and orbiting the IEB that helped the corporations save face with our own groundbreaking work. Rest assured though, we will see those efforts bear fruit for the honor and glory of the Empire. I cannot speak for the lives lost to the Federation past the duty we go to perform for them.

The Union, in their rush to hold all hands and consider all opinions into their final convoluted decisions, followed the Federation into this endeavor in lock-step. They’ve lost the least, for waiting in the wings is the next random selection to fill the void. Their dead will be accounted for accordingly. A fog is upon the Union mind and it blocks the clarity our Emperor bestows upon the Imperial citizen. There is not, nor will there ever be a veil the Emperor cannot pierce with the light of reason, and so too it awaits the worthy after we pass. What awaits all others is a loss too terrible for me to consider.

In spite of our partners’ short comings, the Emperor’s charity knows no bounds. We have dispatched our Wardens to Mimir to give proper aid in recovering whatever may be left of our dead. We honor Him by continuing to honor our commitment to the MIEB…for now. We will count the dead, just as Wardens have done since before the destruction of Sol…no matter the loss.

High Lord Tarraco Charones: Minister, Healer, and Warden of the Dead.

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

We Mean What We Say
Dr. Calia Bremen, assistant to Steward Jase Yosen, Civic of Health

Sisters and brothers, I’d obviously like my first message to you all to be under better circumstances, but here we all are, in this shit together. My heart broke when I got the news, then turned to ash when I saw the visuals…my sister was on the Skłodowska, along with members of your family and tribes as well. There’s no feeling quite like the pain that comes with seeing your own kin die. Jase hasn’t sat down since we all heard the news, pulling on any resources he has supply enough of to send to Mimir to help. If we can save even one of our own, I’d send the Bastion itself packed with the whole damn fleet.

The MIEB Task Force, a joint Faction operation pulling from the best the Union has on offer. In addition, it receives whoever got the highest test scores from the Federation, and whatever the Emperor thinks the Core System needs and needs to give him in return. Solas Craine, may he take his head out of his own ass and see the sacrifice made in collective effort. This is surely just pissed into the wind, but I hope somewhere in his golden halls he has the grit to work through to the goal we all committed to.

Then there’s our impeccably well-timed corporate allies. I’ll give the Federation this, they do produce people who know their craft. They talk a lot, I mean A LOT about every damn thing in front of them before getting to work. But I was hopeful after hearing from my…there it is again, that fucking pain. I’m so not good at this announcement shit. Look, I hate the loss as much as any of you because I know you feel my pain, and I feel yours. Any Unionist worth their salt will dig their heels in right now and push till there’s nothin’ left to give. Till we can say to our dead the Einsen-Bridges are open to all humanity. Nuff said.

Heads held high.

Chapter 11.1: A Step Back

Purpose and Obligation

Transgalactic report 46.8.512, Trice Chavos, Universal Council

Following the Irenic Einsen Bridge Tragedy, the Council has taken a step back to reevaluate the best way forward for all. It is this assembly’s purpose to promote peace and cooperation between the Factions; doing so requires commitment of every member of this body. It is the Council’s hope that every faction upholds its commitment to the MIEB Task Force as we continue to provide vital support to Dr. Takeda’s replacement, Dr. Barnhardt. As she steps up to redefine the methods through which Einsen Bridge research shall be led into the new age, the Council wishes to reiterate Federation President Kim Lee’s words: their sacrifices will help us push beyond the present limitations.

Despite tragedy, there is something to celebrate. Each of our three governments has gone through a period of great change over the last few months; each has assembled new tools with which to communicate its wants and needs to the neighboring factions. It is the Council’s hope that the relationship between Empire, Federation, and Union be strengthened by continued lines of communication and collaboration between each newly created state organ.

Continuing onto more pressing matters: The Federation has tightened security around Mímir. It now insists on inspecting all supplies and screening all vessels nearing the Einsen Bridge and surrounding planetary space, as well. This has caused consternation among arrivals from the Union and Empire. Their discontentment has been addressed by Federal authorities who insist that this increased security is a temporary measure that will be reverted once all the reasons for the Skłodowska’s failure become known. The Federation insists that the MIEB Task Force’s authority be respected as it continues the investigation.

The Council understands both the Federation’s need to protect its investigation and the Empire and Union’s frustrations. A vote has been called to support either the sanctity of the investigation or the autonomy of each faction to enter Mímir’s space based on its own inclination. Faction representatives will address this in greater detail.

For further details, consult your faction story channel. For further details on the factions following the reformation period, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Federation Storyline

Stay the Course Melyssa Perkins-Bui, Interfaction Editor Op-Ed – NovA.I., a Novaros division

Indignation has taken over interfactional communication channels regarding our increased security protocols around Mimir. It seems that ensuring safety after tragedy is the least on the minds of some of our faction neighbors. Rest assured, the Federation remains unimpeded and follows the mandate for security we were entrusted with. Though the tragedy did happen under our watch, ill-timed and unfocused complaints about our role in ensuring the security of all concerned during this time of mourning would be better focused elsewhere.

Having said all that, if Federation citizens wish us to revert to pre-MIEB security standards, we will. It will be Federation democracy that will decide the route we inevitably take on Mímir. Full stop. It will not be the Empire’s propaganda machine or the Union’s pleas for universal access that will decide anything…not until an investigation has ruled out sabotage. In the meantime, the good Dr. Helena Barnhardt will lead the MIEB Task Force in a bold new direction. Her competencies are beyond reproach and she understands more than most what is at stake.

The Empire and Union would do well to assist us as we carry on managing the aftermath by respecting the security protocols we have set in place for good reason.

Empire Storyline

The Warmaster’s Query Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Va-Halet.

Transmission from Hakon Va-Halet

Subjects of the Empire,

You call me minister; I address you in my capacity as Warmaster. You have seen the Council’s latest dispatch, have you not? The Federation tightens access to Mímir–a foolish move, one that makes them look culpable in the Skłodowska disaster. I was first informed of this issue when the Minister of Trust himself demanded that I interject myself into the issue. This, I have done with due haste–though I would advise my colleagues to temper their demands if they do not wish a reminder as to why I was chosen as the bulwark of our great Empire.

After extended discussions with Sector 2’s president Adonis and Tonocom Defence’s leader Donel Gladson, I have come to understand the Federation’s perspective. They say they fear that the wreckage of the MIEB’s headquarters is so complete that anything but the most careful investigation might ruin valuable forensic data. In truth, they are frightened. Frightened that we might plant evidence to demonstrate how unworthy they are of the leadership role they have been cast into. As if the Empire would play at such subterfuge. As if we couldn’t crush them, if that were the Emperor’s will. Now, the Union…

But I veer away from what is important. That I understand this does not mean I agree with it. The Empire is not to be ordered about, least of all when it comes to neutral territory. Our vessels have every right to the space over Mímir, as the Ministry of Trust’s agents have every right to carry out analysis of their own on the planet’s surface. That the Federation’s forensic scientists are competent, this I won’t deny. Yet they are a dishonorable lot–it would not be beyond the pale that they falsify data that might otherwise reflect poorly on their faction.

Yet honor complicates our response: our sovereign, may His Light shine down on us, gave his consent that we take part in the MIEB Task Force. Even though we have been slighted, pushed aside–don’t we have an obligation to follow? And besides, the truth comes to light sooner or later. Even if the Feds attempt to trick us, they will fail. They will give themselves away, as they always do. I might even live to see them admit a mistake–wouldn’t that be something?

Before you is the following question: Shall we press the point and demand Imperial autonomy be shown the respect it justly deserves…or shall we honor our commitment to the MIEB Task Force and accept the Federation’s authority over this investigation?

Your choice is the Empire’s choice. Honor this sacred duty, Imperials.

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

A Most Public Disunity Fellow Unionites,

I won’t mince words. The Federation’s possessive behavior with both Mímir and this investigation is threatening to provoke a knee-jerk reaction among many of us here aboard the Bastion. As the called-upon Speaker of the Vox’s Assembly, I have been forced to stop proceedings twice already to restore some semblance of order among our representatives. Considering the situation, it’s only natural, yet – I’ll say it – it’s time we put away our discontentment and examine the situation with some care.

After Hayden’s death, it was only natural that a ship of her closest compatriots would make the journey to Mímir to pay their respects. Burial rites are not uniformly important across the Union but many of our tribes and clans have them; that her body is unrecoverable is besides the point. SNTNL custom dictates that planet-side losses should be honored. They deserve to continue their vigil, even in death. The clan members’ original plan was to land on Mímir’s surface and build a mound of whatever’s at hand near the scene of the Skłodowska crash. This was met with adamant refusal on the part of the newly deployed Tonocom fleet in the star system.

The Federation is insistent that this order falls under the MIEB Task Force’s authority. In their words, the SNTNL landing threatens to sabotage the integrity of the Federal investigation, as–apparently--one of their government contractors, TANUS Robotiks, is making use of state-of-the-art forensic tech, which is supposedly very sensitive to outside disturbances. I swear, only the Federation would come up with tech that starts malfunctioning as soon as someone looks at it funny.

The choice before us is the following: Do we defer to the Federation and order the SNTNLS to fall back until such a time as the Federation gives us its approval, or do we demand our autonomy in neutral territory be respected and give the SNTNLs the go-ahead to land despite the Federation’s protests?

Join us as we chart the Union’s path forward. Aish Fenix

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Update on the Results of Mimir Security Mandates Re-evaluated

Transgalactic report 50.8.512, Universal Council

Each interstellar faction has expressed its majority view on the re-evaluation of Mimir security mandates. The results are as follows:

Empire:
Demand Access to Mímir - 67.44% Imperial favor
Accept the Federation’s Authority - 32.56% Imperial favor

Federation:
Reinforce Mímir’s defenses - 75.43% of the votes
Reduce Mímir’s defenses - 24.57% of the votes'

Union:
Defer to the Federation - 43.46% of the votes
Impose Union autonomy - 56.54% of the votes

Chapter 11.2: A Step Back

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

Clear Enough
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?

Empire Storyline

Long Time Suspicions
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

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

On Balance
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.

Chapter 12.1: Precipice

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.

Federation Storyline

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.

Empire Storyline

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.

Union Storyline

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

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Vote on Federation Integrity in This Uncertain Age of the Einsen Bridge

Transgalactic report 65.0.513, Universal Council

The interstellar factions have expressed their varying majority views on accusations of Federation culpability in the Anomaly Shockwave. The results are as follows:

Empire:
Withdraw from the MIEB Task Force - 62.68% Imperial favor
Remain part of the MIEB Task Force - 37.32% Imperial favor

Federation:
Acknowledge Empire’s accusation - 67.38% of the votes
Censure the Empire - 32.62% of the votes

Union:
Rebuke the Empire - 57.23% of the votes
Censure the Federation - 42.77% of the votes

Chapter 12.2: Precipice

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

A Poorly Veiled Attempt at More Control
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.

Empire Storyline

In Defense of Reason
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.

Union Storyline

Told You So
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.

Chapter 13.1: A Forbidden Fruit

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.

Federation Storyline

A Foxen-Hound Hunt Lina Khairn-Dwyer, Chief Mímir Correspondent, Takeyon Reports

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!

Empire Storyline

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.

Union Storyline

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

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Votes on a multitude of issues on and around Mímir.

Transgalactic report 76.1.513, Trice Chavos, Universal Council

The Universal Council continues to call for peace and sound logic among the factions. The results are as follows:

Empire:
Minister of Security - 61.78% Imperial favor
Minister of Knowledge - 38.22% Imperial favor

Federation:
Host a peace summit - 58.21% of the votes
Send out a final warning - 41.79% of the votes

Union:
Compassion versus strength - 61.97% of the votes
Strength against strength - 38.03% of the votes

Chapter 13.2: A Forbidden Fruit

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

Speak Peace but Carry a Big Delivery of Advanced Drone Fighters
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.

Empire Storyline

His Grace's Granddaughter...Priceless. Part 1
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

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

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

All for One
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.

Chapter 14.1: Good Samaritans ?

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.

Federation Storyline

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!

Empire Storyline

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.

Union Storyline

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

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Cacophonous

Transgalactic report 5.1.513, Admiral Lyra Montaine, Universal Council

The Universal Council calls for calm in this time of deepening crisis. The results are as follows:

Empire:
Support the Union - 65.7% Imperial favor
Rebuke the Union - 34.3% Imperial favor

Federation:
Condemn the Union’s behavior - 59.81% of the votes
Accept the Union’s aid - 40.19% of the votes

Union:
Give investigators access to Union vessels - 75.26% of the votes
Leave the system - 24.74% of the votes

Chapter 14.2: Good Samaritans ?

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

A Drop of Dissent
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?

Empire Storyline

Not a Single Bullet
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.

Union Storyline

Hypotheticals
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.

Chapter 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.

Federation Storyline

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.

Empire Storyline

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.

[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.

Union Storyline

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. 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

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Consequences

Transgalactic report 17.1.513, Moira Craine, Universal Council

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)
Reject Ivona's asylum - 0 ()

Empire:
Recognize asylum - 61.3% Imperial favor
Reject asylum - 38.7% Imperial favor

Federation:
Recognize asylum - 72.73% of the votes
Reject asylum - 27.27% of the votes

Union:
Recognize asylum - 69.5% of the votes
Reject asylum - 30.5% of the votes

Chapter 15.2: Aikawarazu

After these Vote Results...

Federation Storyline

One Seat Sits Empty
Inse Jokuan, Foreign Affairs Report – Nova Times, a Novaros Division

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, 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!

Empire Storyline

His Will is Set in Motion
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, Minister

Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

A New Home
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

Chapter 16.1: The Lodestone

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:

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.

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.

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.

Federation Storyline

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

Empire Storyline

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:

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

Imperium superet astra.

Union Storyline

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

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Open Hand, Closed Fist

Transgalactic report 29.1.513, Trice Chavos, Universal Council

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)
Punish House Neru-Gal - 0 ()

Empire:
Provide aid to Tribe Sunless - 67.95% Imperial favor
Punish House Neru-Gal - 32.05% Imperial favor

Federation:
Provide aid to Tribe Sunless - 68.44% of the votes
Punish House Neru-Gal - 31.56% of the votes

Union:
Provide aid to Tribe Sunless - 70.14% of the votes
Punish House Neru-Gal - 29.86% of the votes

Other relevant reports:

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.

Chapter 16.2: The Lodestone

After these vote results...

Federation Storyline

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.

Empire Storyline

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.

Union Storyline

Numb Aish Fenix, Speaker of the Vox

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.

Chapter 17.1: Babylon

The Dilemma of Opportunity

Transgalactic report 38.1.513, Trace Chavos, Universal Council
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.

Federation Storyline

Setting the Record Straight
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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: And what if the vote swings to collecting data and core samples?

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.

Empire Storyline

We are Nothing Without Death
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.

Union Storyline

The Closed Fist of the Gamayun Speaks
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

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Results of the Vote on the Fate of The Arbiter and its Crew.

Transgalactic report 41.1.513, Moire Craine, Universal Council

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)
We go for the crew - 0 ()

Empire:
Wait for the right moment - 74.44% Imperial favor
Extricate those left - 25.56% Imperial favor

Federation:
Wait for the right moment - 66.11% of the votes
Extricate those left - 33.89% of the votes

Union:
Wait for the right moment - 66.49% of the votes
Extricate those left - 33.51% of the votes

Chapter 17.2: Babylon

After these vote results...

Federation Storyline

A Moment for the Deceased
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.

Empire Storyline

The Imperator’s Highest Honor
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.

Union Storyline

We Always Find a Way…Our Way
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

Chapter 18.1: Balance

Answers

Transgalactic report 50.1.513, Dr. Helena Barnhardt, Chief Scientist, Universal Council

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 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.

Federation Storyline

They Have Got To Pay
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?

Empire Storyline

Weeding Out the Weakness
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.

Union Storyline

Nothing More, Nothing Less
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

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Around the Corner

Transgalactic report 54.1.513, Moira Craine, Universal Council

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)
Let bygones be bygones - 0 ()

Empire:
The Union must pay reparations - 69.33% Imperial favor
Let bygones be bygones - 30.67% Imperial favor

Federation:
The Union must pay reparations - 75.45% of the votes
Let bygones be bygones - 24.55% of the votes

Union:
The Union must pay reparations - 64.86% of the votes
Let bygones be bygones - 35.14% of the votes

Chapter 18.2: Balance

After these vote results...

Federation Storyline

Goes to Show
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.

Empire Storyline

A Refreshing Show of Guts
From the Imperial Chambers of Truth

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…

Minister Venthe Etruscus
Sit imperium superstes astra.

Union Storyline

Owning Up
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.

Chapter 19.1: Ill-Gotten Gains

Posterity’s Price

Transgalactic report 63.1.513, Dr. Helena Barnhardt, Chief Scientist, Universal Council

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.

Federation Storyline

An Icon’s Insight
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: Before we jump into things here, I have to say it’s an honor, Mr. Huxley.

Huxley: You don’t pull any punches, Bron. I like that.

Bron: Thank you, sir. So, the people want to know, are you for succumbing to extortion or sparking off the next Quantum War?

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: She spoke of a major breakthrough. Can you give us any insight?

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: Is it a legit breakthrough? Are there shoulder canons involved?

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: 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: 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: Is that a bridge that would be better burned going forward?

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: I see we are running out of time. Any last words for Federation citizens out there trying to make an informed vote?

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!

Empire Storyline

There is Only One Path
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.

Union Storyline

We Don’t Repeat the Mistakes of the Past
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

For further details, consult the archives: 📖║lore-codex

Voting Results

Results of the Vote on the UC Quantum budget

Transgalactic report 66.1.513, Moire Craine, Universal Council

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:
Honor Conductivity-12’s claim - 61.36% Imperial favor
Honor approved R&D labs - 38.64% Imperial favor

Federation:
Award Conductivity-12 - 49.15% of the votes
Award approved R&D labs - 50.85% of the votes

Union:
We are with Conductivity-12 - 43.95% of the votes
We are with approved R&D labs - 56.05% of the votes

Chapter 19.2: Ill-Gotten Gains

After these vote results...

Federation Storyline

Democratic Competition at its Finest
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.

Empire Storyline

His Wisdom Prevails Regardless
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.

Union Storyline

A Rising Tide Lifts All Ships
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.