Histoire

Cette page est une archive permanente de toutes les histoires qui ont été publiées à ce jour et des résultats des votes respectifs, ainsi que des histoires de faction pertinentes pour chaque chapitre. Les histoires de factions ne seront pas mises à jour avant la fin du vote en cours, afin d'éviter les spoilers.

Prologue

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Au commencement...

À une époque antérieure au calendrier galactique actuel, les deux factions centrales de la Terre, l'Empire et la Fédération, voulaient monter au pouvoir, chacune rappelée par une promesse différente : pour l'Empire c'était la gloire, pour la Fédération c'était la liberté.

Inévitablement, il y eut un conflit entre les deux factions, de ce conflit est née l'Union : un groupe qui ne se déclarait loyal à aucune des deux factions, leur désir était complètement différent et tout à fait personnel ; la vision de l'Union est celle du progrès.

Au fur et à mesure que les factions découpaient leurs propres sections d'espace, le système Sol et la Terre devinrent progressivement le centre de ce qui sera connu sous le nom de Core Systems. Au fur et à mesure que chaque faction grandissait, ils découvraient également des puissants artefacts pour eux-mêmes : le Bastion, l'Oracle et le Nexus. Ces artefacts se sont avérés anciens, bien plus anciens que toute histoire humaine jamais enregistrée.

Avec la découverte des artefacts est venue la découverte du Quantum, un matériau trouvé dans les circuits anciens de ces artefacts, ainsi qu'en plus petites quantités sur d'autres planètes bien au-delà du système central. Quantum était une substance presque miraculeuse, une vaste source d'énergie capable de changer instantanément sa structure moléculaire. Son apparition annonçait une nouvelle ère technologique. Rapidement, les factions ont été entraînées dans une lutte frénétique pour le pouvoir, chacune se battant pour chaque morceau de Quantum qu'elle pouvait trouver.

Ces escarmouches ont rapidement abouti à une guerre totale, qui aurait pu entraîner la fin de l'humanité s’il n’y avait pas eu avant la destruction soudaine du système Sol et de la Terre avec lui. La cause de ce terrible événement est encore inconnue, au cours de l'histoire galactique chaque faction a pointé du doigt les autres. Il est possible que nous ne sachions jamais ce qui est vraiment arrivé à l'humanité.

Cependant, l'anéantissement complet de tout un système stellaire a poussé les chefs des factions à prendre des mesures drastiques. Dans la zone de l'espace qui était autrefois occupée par le système solaire, ils ont négocié une paix entre les factions. Ce serait la première réunion du Conseil Universel, un conglomérat dans lequel des représentants de l'Empire, de la Fédération et de l'Union superviseraient chaque faction, pour empêcher qu'une telle calamité ne se reproduise.

Aujourd'hui, environ 500 ans se sont écoulés depuis la destruction du système Sol. Le Quantum est rare et son utilisation est fortement réglementée par le Conseil Universel. Bien que la vie des personnes au sein des factions soit relativement paisible, les tensions entre les factions sont à nouveau à la hausse. Cette paix fragile pouvant éclater à tout moment, il appartient aux électeurs du Conseil de maintenir l'équilibre des forces face à une éventuelle guerre imminente.

Êtes-vous prêt à laisser votre marque dans le monde de PlanetQuest ?

Chapitre 1 : Le catalyseur

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Le catalyseur

Rapport de la XVIIe Conférence du Conseil Universel : Date ζ Sagittarii 3.32. Tenue à bord de la station Ignis, au centre neutre du Core System.

Conseillers de l'Empire : Ji Young-Joo, Moira Craine, Gloria Morell Conseillers de la Fédération : Áurea Adonis, San’a, Elijah Burke Conseillers de l’Union : Aish Fenix, Haley Nguyen, Mandla Bankole

Ce qui suit est une transcription du briefing de vote pour tout le personnel impliqué dans le programme Explorer : Trois planètes à la périphérie de l'espace de la Fédération ont signalé des changements majeurs dans leur réseau de communication. D'après les informations qu'ils nous ont données, il semble que le signal ne soit pas tellement interrompu mais remplacé par un autre. Les signaux suivent un schéma cohérent, ce qui indiquerait un signal contradictoire provenant de quelque part en dehors du système central. Des mineurs de Vargas, la planète la plus éloignée touchée par ces signaux, ont affirmé avoir entendu des chuchotements.

Il semblerait que quelque chose appelle quelqu’un, peut-être nous appelle-t-elle?. Mais si pas nous, alors qui ? ou quoi? Dans tous les cas, pour un réseau alimenté par Nexus, une telle défaillance est certainement irrégulière et cette situation mérite plus d'une expédition. Cependant, en raison des efforts continus du Conseil pour évacuer les personnes touchées par les retombées de Quantum vers Kepler-7, nos ressources sont limitées et nous ne pouvons pas nous permettre d'envoyer qu'une seule flotte. Il peut être utile d'envoyer une force d'investigation composée de techniciens et de chercheurs pour analyser en profondeur la source du signal si elle est découverte. Par contre, l'origine ou le milieu environnant du signal pourrait être dangereux, auquel cas l'utilisation d'une force militaire serait plus recommandable si l'on veut le récupérer complètement.

Par conséquent, le vote soumis au Conseil est le suivant : Le Conseil devrait-il envoyer une flotte d'investigation ou militaire au-delà du système central ?

Federation Storyline

Diffusion de San’a, Valkyrie de la Fédération et Représentante du Président Lee

Bon Sol, explorateurs.

Permettez-moi d'être la première personne à vous accueillir officiellement au Conseil universel au nom de la Fédération. Une telle expression claire de la liberté moderne est encourageante à voir. Comme vous l'avez peut-être déjà noté, ce vote en cours affecte directement notre faction ; nos colonies minières sont un élément vital de nos accords commerciaux avec d'autres factions, et une communication efficace sur des planètes comme Vargas est essentielle au maintien de la production. SpyreCorp, la société de surveillance de Vargas, a naturellement caché cela au Conseil, mais il y a déjà eu plusieurs... incidents causés par ces "points faibles" du réseau. Un représentant du président Lee m'a assuré qu'il travaille actuellement avec SpyreCorp pour fournir des communications de secours temporaires, mais que cela peut prendre un certain temps.

En attendant, nous devons faire tout notre possible pour empêcher ce signal de faire plus de dégâts à Vargas et à toute autre planète. À ma grande frustration, le reste du Conseil est fixé sur la décision de n'envoyer qu'une seule flotte, même si l'incident du Kepler-7 n'implique que l'Empire et l'Union. Cependant, nous devons travailler avec les options qui nous sont fournies et exceller. En tant que citoyens de la Fédération, je suis sûr que vous n'êtes pas étranger à cela. Le vote sera ouvert dans quinze minutes et l'option qui aura la majorité sera le vote unique exprimé pour la Fédération.

Par conséquent, vous feriez bien de discuter avec vos collègues avant de vous décider. La manière de procéder dépend de vous, explorateurs. Toujours Vif.

San'a

Empire Storyline

Une directive de Ji Young-Joo, émissaire de l'Empereur

C'est encore un autre jour glorieux à travers l'Empire, explorateurs ! Sachez que vous avez les bénédictions de notre Empereur, comportez-vous en conséquence. Représenter cette faction au siège du Conseil Universel est un honneur accordé à peu de personnes. Cela peut plaire à certains d'entre vous de savoir que, bien que l'incident actuel au Forge World Kepler-7 ait secoué de nombreuses personnes dans l'Empire, l'intervention opportune de la Troisième Flotte, dirigée par Ivona Craine, 2e petite-fille de l'Imperator Solas, se poursuit pour assurer la sécurité de tous les citoyens impériaux essentiels sur la planète.

Concernant le vote : son éminence l'Empereur – puisse-t-il survivre aux étoiles – semble s'être quelque peu intéressé à ce programme Explorer, notamment en raison de la situation actuelle au sein de la Fédération. Depuis quelque temps, l'Oracle lui chante, ainsi qu'à ses Gardiens, les routes au-delà de nos étoiles, la conquête et la gloire éternelles. Il semblerait que ce signal soit un signe, un signe que le moment est venu d'aller au-delà de nos systèmes centraux. Le fait que le signal soit capable de perturber le Nexus est particulièrement… intéressant. Quelle que soit la méthode, il faut chercher à découvrir l'origine de ce signal, soit pour l'asservir, soit pour l'analyser. Vous devriez tous être prêts, car le processus de vote commencera dans quinze minutes. La majorité de vos votes sera exprimée comme un vote unique pour l'Empire. Les yeux attentifs de l'Empereur sont maintenant sur vous, Explorateurs. Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Communication de Haley Nguyen, Membre de l’Union et représentante Vox

Bonjour Camarades !

Je dois admettre que je trouve à la fois amusant et encourageant que le Conseil s'essaie enfin à des principes démocratiques plus "radicaux" avec ce programme d'exploration. C'est à se demander comment ils ont réussi à faire passer ça devant le vieux Solas. Néanmoins, de nouvelles voix sur Ignis sont toujours les bienvenues en ce qui concerne le Vox, et je ne doute pas que vous représentez les meilleurs d'entre nous. Nous sommes malheureusement loin d'avoir trouvé ce qui a pu provoquer la surcharge du Moteur Quantique au moment où notre vaisseau cargo quittait Kepler-7 ; la principale théorie reste le sabotage impérial. Jusqu'à ce que nous en ayons la preuve, notre objectif est toujours d'aider à l'évacuation de la planète du mieux que nous pouvons.

Quoi qu'il en soit, le Vox convient avec le Conseil que la situation des planètes minières de la Fédération doit être abordée. La question est : comment ? Une force militaire pourrait sembler trop hostile, mais il est fort probable que nous ayons besoin de la force brute pour accéder à la source du signal, même si elle n'est pas dangereuse. Une force d'investigation, d'un autre côté, serait capable de traiter le signal dès son arrivée, en minimisant les dommages causés aux mineurs - je suis sûr que vous n'avez pas besoin de moi pour vous dire que nous ne pouvons pas compter sur les Fédéraux pour prendre soin de leurs travailleurs. Si ce signal peut perturber le Nexus, nous devons garder à l'esprit qu’il pourrait aussi affecter le Bastion.

Quoi qu'il en soit, c'est tout pour moi ; les votes de l’Union seront ouverts dans quinze minutes et seront décidés par majorité. Nous laissons la décision entre vos mains expertes, Explorateurs.

Pour un avenir meilleur. Haley

Résultats du vote

Le Conseil universel a consolidé les votes de chacune des factions : Intervention Militaire 1 (Empire) , Enquêter 2 (Fédération,Union)

Le vote final est en faveur de l'envoi d'une flotte d'investigation au-delà des systèmes centraux, afin de localiser et d'étudier l'origine de ce mystérieux signal. L'équipement scientifique nécessaire, ainsi qu'une protection militaire adéquate, ont été fournis, et la flotte partira bientôt.

Station Ignis, aire d'atterrissage 12-α

Des radiographes, des chercheurs quantiques et des experts extra-core se rassemblent autour de leurs navires assignés, effectuant des vérifications d'équipement à la dernière minute. Un personnage se déplace parmi eux, suivant le rythme dissonant des machines. Sa démarche est déterminée, impatiente. Un éclair bleu se reflète sur l'insigne de l'Union sur le col. À son passage, les membres de l'équipage se redressent et se concentrent à nouveau : personne ne veut causer un tort à Sera Varse aujourd'hui. Les queues d'un trench se soulèvent derrière elle, attrapant le courant d'air d'un Quantum Drive de mauvaise qualité. Elle regarde la foule et fronce le front. Beaucoup de talent, emporté par Kepler-7 dans une poursuite sauvage. Des gens pourraient encore être là-bas, son frère pourrait encore être là-bas; coincés dans les décombres, des vagues d'énergie de Quantum qui les déchirent, les brûlent.

Elle inspire et laisse la fumée la calmer. Il y a une odeur de maison, remplie de cris métalliques et de chuchotements de circuits. Cela fait dix ans qu'elle a rejoint les forces du conseil, dix ans depuis qu'elle a mis le pied pour la dernière fois dans les rues détrempées d'Arnum. Bref, Sera fait place à ses souvenirs. Elle repense à sa mère, aux champs et aux gros fils de cuivre dans la casse des ruines. Si ce que disent les Fédéraux est vrai, ce signe ne ressemble à rien qu'ils aient jamais vu auparavant. Sera sait ce que cela signifie : les chances que sa flotte revienne de cette mission sont minces. Les lumières de la piste d'atterrissage s'éteignent lentement. Sera assiste aux dernières vérifications et présente son équipage à l'intérieur de leurs navires. Elle regarde leurs visages lorsque les rampes d'embarquement s'arrêtent : Keiran, Dana, Selin. Elle se souvient de certains noms, mais d'autres non. Sur le pont, les volets des fenêtres du vaisseau de commandement s'ouvrent. L'étendue de l'espace les appelle, son vide sinistre les invite à entrer. Ils ont commencé à suivre le signal, pensant qu'il leur faudrait une journée de voyage avant de l'atteindre. S'ils ne reviennent pas, elle ne reverra plus jamais le visage de son frère. Mieux vaut revenir alors.

Alors que la coque métallique du vaisseau de commandement se détache de la station Ignis, Sera Varse s'installe sur le dossier de sa chaise et sourit. Si les étoiles voulaient la prendre, elles allaient devoir faire un sacré bon boulot.

Panopea Transmission

3e rapport de la mission d'investigation sur Vargas, hors de l'espace de la Fédération

Notre flotte a suivi avec succès le signal inconnu près de sa source. Malgré les hypothèses dans mon dernier rapport selon lesquelles le signal aurait simplement été causé par une technologie malveillante à la dérive dans l'espace, nous avons suivi le signal vers un système solaire, qui comprend une quinzaine de planètes et deux étoiles. À leur arrivée dans le système, les capteurs de notre vaisseau ont été attaqués par des interférences environnementales (décrites ci-dessous). Ceci, combiné à une proximité accrue avec le signal, a rendu plus difficile l'estimation de l'emplacement exact du signal. Heureusement, après une analyse orbitale de plusieurs planètes, ainsi qu'un décryptage plus poussé du signal, nous pensons que nos techniciens ont trouvé la planète d'où provient le signal. Nous avons surnommé cette planète Mímir. Pour le moment, nous nous préparons à descendre à sa surface et continuerons à affiner l'emplacement du signal à partir de là.

Il y a cependant une autre question qui, à mon avis, devrait être portée à l'attention du Conseil. Comme indiqué précédemment, en entrant dans le système, l'équipement du Panopea, ainsi que celui du reste de notre flotte, a commencé à détecter de fortes lectures dans toutes les directions. Une analyse plus approfondie des planètes a confirmé nos soupçons initiaux : les planètes de ce système contiennent toutes des dépôts à haute densité de Quantum, à un niveau sans précédent, même lors des expéditions précédentes au-delà du système central. De plus, ces planètes semblent avoir des écosystèmes riches et prospères, avec une énorme variété de flore et de faune.

C'est encore une fois assez irrégulier et ceux de notre équipe ayant une expérience des biosphères ont suggéré que les deux phénomènes, les dépôts de Quantum et l'augmentation de la biodiversité, pourraient être liés. Je suggérerais que le Conseil envoie plusieurs cargos et navires miniers sur notre site, afin de commencer l'excavation et la récupération de ces gisements quantiques, tandis que le Panopea et sa flotte poursuivront le reste de la mission. Cela aidera également à éliminer certaines des interférences et nous permettra d'accélérer notre recherche. Je vous recontacterai une fois qu'une base aura été établie à la surface, mais avec l'augmentation des interférences de Quantum, il nous faudra probablement encore plusieurs jours pour identifier les coordonnées exactes du signal.

La diffusion se termine.

CHAPITRE 2 : Les Crimson Wolves

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Les Crimson Wolves

Rapport de la 18ème Conférence du Conseil Universel : Date ζ Sagittarii 3.32 Tenue à bord de la station Ignis, au centre neutre du Core System.

Conseillers de l'Empire : Ji Young-Joo, Moira Craine, Cael'an Ashuret
Conseillers de la Fédération : Áurea Adonis, San’a, Kim Lee
Conseillers l’Union : Aish Fenix, Haley Nguyen, Mandla Bankole

Ce qui suit est une transcription du briefing de vote pour tout le personnel impliqué dans le programme Explorer.

... dès que les premiers navires de sauvetage auront été envoyés, le Conseil décidera des mesures à prendre concernant les navires remplis de Quantum arrivant de l'expédition Sera Varse. Merci pour vos inquiétudes, Président Adonis.

Le Conseil est heureux d'annoncer que la situation à Kepler-7 se déroule sans obstacles. L'Imperial Forge World est à mi-chemin de l'évacuation et les ondes d'énergie de Quantum du Pinnacle, le navire mercenaire de l'Union en orbite autour de la planète, semblent diminuer en fréquence. Ce n'est qu'une question de temps avant que nos flottes de recherche puissent s'approcher de l'épave et enquêter sur la cause du dysfonctionnement du Quantum Drive.

Malheureusement, il y a maintenant un autre problème au sein du système Kepler qui exige l'attention immédiate du Conseil : en raison des troubles autour de Kepler-7, d'autres planètes du système ont été ciblées par un groupe de pirates connu sous le nom de "Crimson Wolves". Leur chef supposé, Montez Lycanis, est un noble impérial en disgrâce qui se présente maintenant comme un "seigneur pirate". Les navires des Crimson Wolves ont principalement utilisé des tactiques de guérilla pour éviter d'être davantage détectés, et de nombreuses colonies de Forge de l'Empire ont déjà subi de lourdes pertes.

Étant donné que le système Kepler reste à la frontière de l'Empire et du territoire de l'Union, le contrôle de ces actions relève de la compétence du Conseil universel. Bien que les Crimson Wolves soient connus pour avoir un vaisseau de commandement, il ne s'est pas encore présenté lors de ces attaques. Par conséquent, nous ne pouvons pas prédire où et quand les pirates frapperont à nouveau et nos forces devront se déployer pour tenter de le localiser. Nos forces subiront probablement de lourdes pertes si nous poursuivons cette ligne de conduite. Il existe cependant une autre option. Ivona Craine, commandante de la troisième flotte de l'Empire et deuxième petite-fille de leur empereur, s'est manifestée en disant que la troisième flotte avait suivi les Crimson Wolves jusqu'à leur navire de commandement. Elle est prête à partager cette information, à condition que le Conseil lance un assaut sur le vaisseau de commandement avec Ivona à la barre et que le corps de Montez, mort ou vivant, soit livré à l'Empire. Cela reviendrait à abandonner la défense des colonies au profit de l'élimination de la racine du problème.

Par conséquent, le vote soumis au Conseil est le suivant : Le Conseil devrait-il étendre ses forces et défendre les colonies Forge, ou devrions-nous accepter la proposition d'Ivona Craine et attaquer de front le vaisseau de commandement des Crimson Wolves ?

Votre contact de faction publiera une déclaration dans vos canaux de vote respectifs avant le début du vote.

Federation Storyline

Diffusion de San’a, Valkyrie de la Fédération et Représentante du Président Lee

Bon Sol, explorateurs !

Félicitations pour le premier vote positif du programme Explorer. L'envoi d'une flotte d'investigation s'est avéré plus efficace et apportera potentiellement de grandes quantités de Quantum d'au-delà des systèmes centraux. Cependant, ce que le président Adonis a soulevé lors de la conférence mérite d'être répété : les factions doivent travailler ensemble pour éviter une tragédie telle que la destruction du système Sol, et investir cet afflux de Quantum dans les sociétés structurées et stables de la Fédération serait une étape importante vers ce but.

Le président Lee, qui a temporairement quitté Vargas pour assister à cette conférence, a également partagé une mise à jour générale sur la situation : Bien que le signal inconnu continue de perturber les communications Nexus, la nouvelle infrastructure de communication installée par SpyreCorp a considérablement réduit le nombre d'accidents. Bien qu'il ne s'agisse que d'une solution temporaire, l'infrastructure de SpyreCorp a permis à Vargas de poursuivre la production, ce qui est pour l'instant plus que satisfaisant.

Quant au vote en cours, il est décourageant de voir qu'encore plus de ressources ont été dépensées dans la situation actuelle autour de Kepler-7. Cependant, les Crimson Wolves ne sont pas une menace à prendre à la légère : de nombreux systèmes de la Fédération ont subi leurs attaques dans le passé, et éliminer le chef pirate serait très bénéfique. La seule question est de savoir si l'Empire, et en particulier Ivona, révèlent ici toute l'étendue de leurs intentions. D'autre part, si le Conseil étend ses défenses et tient les Crimson Wolves à distance, les pirates pourraient abandonner Kepler, mais ils pourraient alors se rapprocher des systèmes contrôlés par la Fédération, nous obligeant à les affronter directement.

Toujours Vif.
San’a

Empire Storyline

Une directive de Ji Young-Joo, émissaire de l'Empereur

La majesté de l'Empereur brille sur vous aujourd'hui, Explorateurs ! L'Imperator Solas - puisse-t-il survivre aux étoiles - vous félicite pour votre excellent jugement lors du dernier vote. Il est dommage que les autres factions ne bénéficient pas de la sagesse, ni des conseils de l'Oracle. Néanmoins, ce nouvel afflux de Quantum montre la prévoyance de notre Empereur à faire confiance à cette expédition ; bien qu'il puisse être dirigé par la racaille d'un système de l'Union ignoble et vicieux, il ne fait aucun doute que l'Empire récoltera bientôt les bénéfices de leurs découvertes.

Passons à ce bâtard de Montez, ce prétendant qui s'autoproclame seigneur des paysans et persiste à porter le nom de la maison impériale de Lycanis même après son exil. Lady Ivona, dans sa grâce et sa sagesse, a daigné transmettre ses prodigieuses idées stratégiques au Conseil, et que font-ils ? Ils frémissent, ils se recroquevillent ; ils vous demandent de voter ! Une attaque contre le vaisseau de commandement des Crimson Wolves nous permettrait de traduire cette disgrâce d'un noble en justice.

Même ainsi, il est parvenu à mes oreilles que si l'Empereur approuve la franchise de sa petite-fille et n'a aucun scrupule quant à ses prouesses militaires après la victoire à Twilight Eden, son éminence l'exhorte à ne pas se laisser emporter par les impulsions de la jeunesse ; il peut être encore plus fructueux à long terme d'ordonner que le Conseil défende les Mondes-Forges Impériaux, et d'engager Montez plus tard, selon les propres conditions de l'Empire.

Comme auparavant, le processus de vote commencera dans quinze minutes. Votre vote appartient à l'Empire, explorateurs. Utilisez-le bien, et laissez les chants de l'Oracle éclairer le chemin vers la gloire !

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Communication de Haley Nguyen, Membre de l’Union et représentante Vox

Bonjour Camarades. Je voudrais juste le dire : je n'aime pas du tout cette situation. Je suis sûr que certains d'entre vous ont aussi perdu de la famille et des amis à cause de la Troisième Flotte, alors je vous épargnerai les détails, mais je vous recommande de faire confiance à une douzaine de serpents venimeux plutôt qu'à un monstre sans cœur comme Ivona Craine. Le Vox est encore indécis sur la façon de traiter le Quantum découvert, mais il est définitivement préférable qu’il soit entre les mains du Conseil plutôt que d'attendre que quelqu'un s'en empare. C'est bien d'avoir l'une des nôtres à la tête de la flotte aussi ; j'ai entendu des choses étonnantes sur Sera de la part de plusieurs représentants Vox, et il semble qu'elle soit plus qu'à la hauteur de la tâche. Apparemment, Casper Varse faisait aussi partie de l'unité des Twin Suns qui commandait le Pinnacle quand il... vous savez. D'après ce que l'on voit, le vaisseau sera bientôt de nouveau accessible, et nous pourrons alors rechercher les survivants. En ce qui concerne le nouveau vote : il semble que, quelle que soit la manière dont le Conseil le tranche, les gens vont souffrir. Bien sûr, les travailleurs des colonies impériales n'ont pas vraiment le choix. Ils ne méritent pas non plus d'être jetés par le sas juste pour que Mlle Craine puisse réaliser son petit fantasme de vengeance. Le problème est que si nous envoyons des troupes pour les défendre, un tiers de ces soldats seront de l'Union, et avec des ressources aussi limitées, ça ne va pas être joli. Allons-nous laisser les esclaves Impériaux mourir, sans qu'ils en soient responsables, et éliminer une menace potentielle ? Ou est-ce que nous allons laisser nos propres soldats tomber en défendant les Impériaux ? Je ne vous envie pas en ce moment, je dois le dire. Les votes seront ouverts dans quinze minutes ; faites ce que vous pensez être juste, Explorateurs.

Pour un avenir meilleur.
Haley

Résultats du vote

Le Conseil universel a regroupé les votes de chacune des factions : Attaquer le vaisseau de commandement 2 (Empire,Fédération) , Défendre les colonies 1 (Union)

Le vote final est en faveur de l'acceptation des informations fournies par Ivona Craine, et du lancement d'un assaut sur le vaisseau de commandement des Crimson Wolves. Ivona Craine a partagé les coordonnées du vaisseau de commandement avec les forces du Conseil, et le commandement des escadrons militaires disponibles lui a été transféré. La force offensive partira immédiatement, selon les instructions de l'actuel commandant par intérim.

Information Urgente pour tous les membres du programme Explorer

Ce qui suit est une diffusion de Yang Chen, capitaine du Cossrack.

Origine : Alder, navire de l'escadron Baerle-3.
Rencontre : Bataille #1 dans le système de Kepler : Date ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Désignation : rapport de mission

Je suis Yang Chen, escadron, U-Um, Roche-7. Désolé, je suis... encore un peu secoué. Je n'ai jamais rien vu de tel. Commander une seule flotte est une chose, mais cent, non, plus de cent navires ! Et avec une aisance... difficile à décrire. Je ne pense pas qu'aucun membre de l'équipage ait utilisé des communications internes entre flottes. Nous n'en avions pas besoin : les flottes étaient comme une seule unité.

La localisation du vaisseau de commandement s'est plutôt bien passée. Il n'y avait pas beaucoup de combattants Crimson Wolves non plus, seulement une douzaine environ, mais notre opération offensive a été rapide et impitoyable. Dès l'instant où son premier commandement est arrivé, l'intensité n'a pas faibli. Encore et encore, nous avons couru jusqu'au vaisseau de commandement, ignorant la plupart des chasseurs environnants. Nous étions un bélier ferme, frappant coup sur coup contre sa coque. Quand elle s'est fendue, nous nous sommes dispersés, comme une volée d'oiseaux, sans tirer un seul coup de feu.

À ces moments-là, elle donnait à chaque navire des instructions individuelles. Les flottes suivaient un rythme, mais ce n'était jamais prévisible, pas une seule fois. Même lorsque les navires explosaient autour de nous, aucun membre de l'équipage n'a paniqué. Il y avait quelque chose dans son discours, une certitude qui vous faisait vous sentir intouchable. Je ne sais pas comment Montez a duré si longtemps ; Le chasseur d'Ivona n'a pas quitté le Tempest jusqu'à ce que son vaisseau de commandement soit presque en train de s'effondrer.

J'ai entendu dire qu'elle l'avait traîné hors de l'épave elle-même. Je ne sais pas si c'est vrai, mais je ne serais vraiment pas surpris. Lorsque l'offensive était terminée, c'était comme sortir d'une transe, ou se réveiller d'un rêve où tout avait un sens. Du moins, c'est comme ça que je le décrirais. Je parie que tout le monde a ressenti quelque chose de similaire. C'est probablement pourquoi on aurait dit que l'explosion était sortie de nulle part.

Je ne me souviens plus qui l'a remarqué en premier, je me souviens juste d'avoir vu l'espace autour du vaisseau de commandement se courber, puis j'ai couru chercher mon casque avant que la fenêtre du pont d'observation ne se brise. La lumière s'est déversée - c'est drôle, je n'aurais jamais pensé que la lumière était solide auparavant, mais elle l'est. Lumière solide. Des lignes épaisses, brisant le pont. J'ai tenu le plus longtemps possible, je n'entendais rien à cause du courant d'air qui entrait par la fenêtre. Bien que je m'en souvienne... de toute façon, après quelques secondes, la lumière s'est dissipée et était... partie. Tout le vaisseau de commandement, juste... parti. Même les combattants autour, je pense, et certains des nôtres. Je suis désolé, c'est tout ce dont je me souviens et, je... j'ai mal à la tête. Pouvez-vous me ramener à la-

Fin de la section importante du rapport.

Le récit du capitaine Chen correspond à d'autres qui détaillent les événements qui ont conclu l'attaque contre les Crimson Wolves. Chacun décrit cette déformation de l'espace, accompagnée d'une étrange lumière dont la couleur semble varier. La cause exacte de la disparition du navire de commandement reste incertaine. Les analyses initiales de l'énergie maximale du navire ont confirmé que son Quantum Drive était activé; cependant, il est impossible pour les Quantum Drives de transporter plus de vaisseaux, sans parler de ceux qui les entourent.

Cinq des escadrons impliqués dans cette attaque ont complètement disparu et leur localisation est actuellement une opération hautement prioritaire pour le Conseil.

Les colonies Forge du système Kepler ont subi de lourdes pertes, comme prévu. Près d'un quart d'entre eux sont aujourd'hui morts et le nombre de morts avoisine le million, peut-être plus. Les combattants Crimson Wolves qui ont attaqué les colonies se sont heureusement retirés ; ils ont très probablement quitté le système, et étant donné l'absence de leur vaisseau de commandement, il est peu probable qu'ils réapparaissent de si tôt. Ivona Craine et la Troisième Flotte, toutes deux largement indemnes, ont également quitté le système Kepler, transportant le corps de Montez Lycanis vers la Bordure Intérieure de l'Empire. Ils ont refusé de révéler au Conseil universel si Montez est actuellement en vie ou non.

Chapitre 3: Le Fragment

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Le Fragment

Rapport de la XIX Conférence du Conseil Universel : Date ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Tenue à bord de la station Ignis, au centre neutre du Core System.

Conseillers de l'Empire : Ji Young-Joo, Moira Craine, Cael'an Ashuret
Conseillers de la Fédération : Áurea Adonis, San'a, Elijah Burke
Conseillers de l’Union: Aish Fenix, Haley Nguyen, Mandla Bankole

Après les événements récents dans le système Kepler, l'évacuation de Kepler-7 a quelque peu ralenti, mais est toujours en bonne voie pour être achevée avant la 22e conférence. Les enquêtes sur les cinq navires disparus en sont encore à leur phase initiale et n'ont pas encore donné de résultats. Le Conseil Universel a reçu des nouvelles de l'expédition du Commandant Varse, qui a été envoyée pour enquêter sur un signal inconnu perturbant les communications sur les planètes minières de la Fédération. Il semble que la flotte du commandant Varse ait finalement découvert la source de ce signal. D'après son rapport, il semblerait que l'origine du signal soit un gros fragment noir, qui s'est coincé dans les murs d'un système de grottes sur la planète Mímir. Le fragment mesure environ 5 mètres de haut et 1,5 mètre de diamètre.

D'après les premières expériences, il semble que le fragment réagisse à la matière organique, à tout contact il augmente l'intensité du signal qu'il émet. Un autre aspect particulier du Fragment est qu'il y a de vastes gisements de Quantum concentrés autour de lui. Ceci en soi est très étrange, car le Quantum se trouve généralement dans des référentiels isolés. Il semble également que le Quantum réagisse au Fragment, amplifiant davantage le signal.

La procédure normale serait de retirer le fragment de la grotte et de le faire transporter par la flotte à la station d'Ignis pour des recherches avec un équipement plus avancé. Cependant, le commandant Varse mentionne dans son rapport qu'il est sceptique quant au fait que le Fragment soit la source entière de ce signal. Il présente une théorie qui suggère que ce fragment est un conduit, que le vrai signal provient de quelque chose de plus grand, plus à l'intérieur de la planète Mímir. Elle conseille de ne pas supprimer le fragment et souhaite déterminer si son signal est unique ou non.

Le commandant Varse admet que c'est juste son hypothèse et non une certitude. La suppression du fragment pourrait fournir une solution plus immédiate au problème en rompant la liaison de signal avec le quantum dans la grotte. Il précise que même s'il existe une autre source de signal, la suppression du fragment pourrait suffisamment affaiblir le signal pour atténuer tout impact sur le système central. À la lumière de ces considérations, il a demandé au Conseil universel de fournir des directives sur la façon dont sa flotte devrait procéder.

Le vote soumis au Conseil est le suivant : La flotte de recherche doit-elle retirer le fragment, en préparation du transport et de l'étude du fragment à bord de la station Ignis, ou le fragment et la flotte doivent-ils rester sur Mímir, pour effectuer une analyse plus approfondie du signal ?

Votre contact de faction publiera une déclaration dans vos canaux de vote respectifs avant le début du vote.

Fédération Storyline

Diffusion de San’a, Valkyrie de la Fédération et Représentante du Président Lee

Bon Sol, explorateurs.

Bien que ce qui s'est passé au sein du système Kepler ait été une véritable tragédie, la Fédération vous félicite pour votre jugement mûrement réfléchi face au dilemme. Tel est le coût de traiter avec des factions comme l'Empire et l'Union ; l'un choisit de permettre à son peuple de mourir, tandis que l'autre vote pour ignorer une menace pour tous les systèmes centraux. Rassurez-vous, si les planètes de la Fédération sont menacées de la même manière, nous aurons suffisamment de mesures de sécurité pour éviter des pertes aussi lourdes.

Dans l'état actuel des choses, notre vote actuel nécessitera également une forme de compromis. Bien que poursuivre l'hypothèse du commandant Varse semble certainement être la voie à suivre pour progresser, ce n'est qu'une hypothèse pour l'instant. Les progrès se font souvent par incréments, et avancer dans l'inconnu demande de la prudence. La commission d'un imbécile, en fin de compte, peut finir par blesser plus de gens que le simple imbécile; être une Valkyrie m'a beaucoup appris. Bien sûr, il n'est guère surprenant qu'un membre de l'Union soit réputé manquer d'un tel jugement, mais je m'éloigne du sujet.

Cela dit, il ne faut pas oublier de considérer la situation sur Vargas et ses planètes soeurs. Comme mentionné dans la dernière émission, plus tôt les communications sont rétablies, mieux c'est. Suivre l'enquête du commandant Varse jusqu'au bout serait le moyen le plus fiable d'atteindre cet objectif. De plus, jusqu'à ce que les communications au niveau du système soient rétablies, il n'existe actuellement aucun moyen de canaliser efficacement les ressources minérales de la planète. Le président Lee estime qu'il ne reste que quelques semaines avant que les ressources extraites ne dépassent la capacité de nos installations, moment auquel son industrie commencera à subir de graves pertes financières. Il est dans notre intérêt de conclure cela le plus rapidement possible, mais aller trop vite pourrait comporter des risques encore plus grands. Le vote s'ouvre dans quinze minutes, Explorateurs ; Je suis sûre que vous ferez à nouveau le bon choix.

Toujours Vif.
San’a

Empire Storyline

Une directive de Ji Young-Joo, émissaire de l'Empereur

Quelle époque magnifique pour être citoyen de notre Empire, chers Explorateurs ! Quel triomphe ! Le commandant de notre troisième flotte a ramené le bâtard Montez à notre Empereur exalté - puisse-t-il vivre plus longtemps que les étoiles - et a montré à la galaxie que la puissance de l'Empire est vraiment inégalée !

L'Empereur Solas a ordonné qu'une exécution publique de ce "seigneur pirate" ait lieu sur l'Eden de la Maison Lycanis, pour permettre aux nobles de la maison de témoigner de la restauration de leur honneur. En conclusion, un festival aura lieu sur Eden Lycanis pour célébrer la victoire sans faille d'Ivona Craine, ainsi que la vie de ceux qui se trouvaient sur les Mondes Forges de Kepler, qui ont courageusement donné leur vie pour la capture d'un ennemi impérial. En ce qui concerne le vote actuel : d'après ce que notre Empereur a daigné dire à son Conseil, l'Oracle chante maintenant des chansons de changement, bien qu’il ne soit toujours pas clair si ce changement proviendra de la suppression du fragment ou de son retour dans les Systèmes Centraux.

Il est également trop tôt pour dire si le changement, lorsqu'il se produira, sera une malédiction ou une aubaine pour l'Empire ; parfois les chansons de l'Oracle jettent un filet trop large pour être entendues dans leur intégralité. En pratique, s'installer imprudemment dans les cavernes d'une planète inconnue peut s'avérer peu judicieux, surtout lorsque la direction est confiée à un misérable de l'Union. D'un autre côté, on ne sait pas ce qui peut arriver lorsque ce fragment est retiré de terre. De plus, le Conseil insiste toujours sur le fait qu'ils ont besoin de leurs ressources militaires pour l'évacuation de Kepler-7, et que la flotte de recherche revienne, ils n'ont peut-être pas encore les moyens adéquats pour repousser une attaque potentielle - sans aucun doute, la Fédération ou l'Union pourraient vouloir saisir cet artefact pour eux-mêmes.

Quoi qu'il arrive, l'Oracle et l'Empereur ne se trompent jamais. Le changement arrive dans les Systèmes Centraux, chers Explorateurs, bien que sa nature puisse très bien être entre vos mains. Le vote s'ouvrira dans quinze minutes. Que la volonté de l'Empereur soit votre guide et votre force.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Communication de Haley Nguyen, Membre de l’Union et représentante Vox

Bonjour Camarades. Je commencerais bien cette communication par un "Bonjour, Camarades", mais il y a des jours où cela semble malvenu. Un million de morts... et pour quoi, vraiment ? Sans doute que les membres de l'Union sous le commandement d'Ivona ont aussi quitté cette bataille avec un goût amer dans la bouche. La seule chose qui me permet de rester saine d'esprit est qu'elle n'ait pas assisté au débriefing du Conseil, ce qui nous a évité de la voir jubiler depuis le côté Impérial de la table du Conseil. Tout ce que nous pouvons faire, c'est aller de l'avant. L'Union ne peut pas laisser des moments comme celui-ci nous décourager de faire ce que nous croyons être juste. Le dernier vote a été très serré, et j'aimerais transmettre la gratitude et le respect que j'ai entendu de la part de nombreux membres de Vox à tous ceux qui ont fait entendre leur voix. Nous construisons ce futur ensemble, c'est la seule façon de le faire. Espérons simplement que les Crimson Wolves resteront à l'écart pendant un long moment. Aussi difficile que cela puisse être de sortir d'un tel état d'esprit, j'ai un autre vote à discuter avec vous. En regardant la situation de manière pragmatique, le Vox est tout à fait d'accord pour que le fragment reste où il est. Nous ne pouvons pas ignorer complètement la théorie de Sera, et pour la sécurité de l'Union, il est important que nous sachions ce qui se cache derrière ce signal ; le Bastion est la pierre angulaire de toute notre faction - sans parler de nos opérations militaires - et nous ne pouvons pas nous permettre de le compromettre à l'avenir. D'un autre côté, on ne peut ignorer le danger potentiel que nous faisons courir à cette flotte en la gardant sur Mímir. Personnellement, je peux comprendre que certains d'entre vous préfèrent éviter toute perte de vie supplémentaire. Le vote a lieu dans 15 minutes, Explorateurs. Comme d'habitude, votre majorité sera le seul vote de l'Union ; rappelez-vous que le Vox soutiendra toute décision que vous prendrez.

Pour un avenir meilleur.
Haley

Résultas du Vote

Le Conseil universel a regroupé les votes de chacune des factions : Retirer le tesson 0 () , Analyser le tesson 3 (Empire,Fédération,Union)

Le vote final est en faveur de l'analyse du tesson tel qu'il se trouve à la surface de la planète Mímir, afin de mieux comprendre son signal. Une transmission a été envoyée au commandant Varse, et l'opération de recherche devrait commencer sous peu. Nous espérons recevoir un rapport détaillant les premiers résultats de cette recherche prochainement.

La colère du Quantum

Ce qui suit est une émission de Sera Varse.
Origine : surface de la planète Mímir.
Désignation : rapport de recherche

14e rapport sur la mission d'investigation de Vargas, hors de l'espace de la Fédération.

Autres observations sur la planète : l'incroyable densité de l'atmosphère ne montre aucun signe de changement. Les nuages ​​jaunes remplis de phosphore sont juste au-dessus de nos têtes, le torrent de pluie de silicate balayant la surface se dirige vers nous. Cette absence de changement suggère que les hypothèses précédentes selon lesquelles la densité était un phénomène météorologique irrégulier étaient inexactes. Cependant, rejeter cette théorie ne fait que poser plus de questions sur la façon dont la température sur Mímir se régule– (rires) oh, arrêtez ça !

Hem, désolé ... vous voyez, nous avons commencé à étudier la faune que j'ai mentionnée lors de mon 13e rapport, car il semble en fait y avoir un lien entre l'augmentation des niveaux de Quantum et le développement de la vie sur ce système, au moins sur Mímir. Ces créatures, que nous avons commencé à appeler “Qyllits”, sont des mammifères dociles qui vivent dans des grottes, nous pouvons en observer pas mal depuis les stations d'équipement installées autour du Fragment.

Pouvez-vous vous déplacer derrière Jonas ? D'accord – L'analyse plus approfondie du Fragment se déroule sans soucis, nous sommes sur le point de procéder à la deuxième phase de nos recherches. Je suis heureux de pouvoir informer le Conseil que l'hypothèse secondaire était correcte : il y a, en fait, un autre signal dans ces grottes.

De plus, les lectures de ce fragment suggèrent qu'il y en a plusieurs autres, agissant tous comme des conduits, tirant le signal d'une seule source. Trouver l'emplacement de cette source est compliqué; il nécessite une lecture extrêmement forte et précise de l'un des conduits. Pour que cela se produise, nous sommes sur le point d'envoyer une impulsion de Quantum à travers le fragment, juste assez pour nous permettre de déterminer la signature de la fréquence d'origine.

Kate, es-tu prête ? Tu ferais mieux de l’être ou sinon tu dormiras sur un tapis ce soir. OK, chacun à son poste ! Jonas, enlève-toi le Qyllit de tes épaules... ouais, mets-le sur la console ou quelque chose comme ça. Doucement ! Je vous jure, vous les soldats, vous devez apprendre un peu la délicatesse. (* élevant la voix*) Ok les gens ! Maintenant, vous avez tous vu ce qui se passe avec de petites quantités de Quantum, nous nous attendons à une réaction assez intense.

Début de l'expérience 2.0. Kate ? A trois... un... deux... trois ! (crépitement, bourdonnement) Excellent, Milo, continue de stabiliser le signal, nous devons l'isoler ! Selin, augmente un peu le cadran... parfait ! Pas encore, Kate, pas encore ! (fortes vibrations, bruissement d'air) Kate ! Si tu laisses tomber cette console, on sera venu jusqu’ici pour rien, tu comprends ? Tiens bon !!

• (claquement, cri)*

Merde ! Kate, tu es… oh, tu es la star absolue ! Cinq secondes de plus, peux-tu le faire ? Nous voilà! Voici la signature... appuie sur ce satané interrupteur !

• le souffle de l'air diminue *

Êtes-vous tous OK ? Excellent travail, tout le monde. Milo, sois un peu plus rapide dans l'extraction la prochaine fo — Vous avez entendu ?!? (* léger grognement *) Jonas, tu vas bien ? Oh mer- (cacophonie de sons : bris de verre, crissement, déchirement de métal, nombreux bruits de pas, cris résonnants, statique)

La diffusion s'arrête.

La colère du Quantum, Partie 2

Ce qui suit est une émission de Sera Varse.
Origin: surface de la planète Mímir.
Designation: signal de danger

15e rapport sur la mission d'investigation de Vargas, hors de l'espace de la Fédération.

(Interférence)

Ici Sera Varse; nous avons dû quitter notre camp de recherche. Après avoir envoyé l'impulsion à travers le Fragment, le comportement des Qyllits a soudainement changé, nous attaquant avec une méchanceté qui était presque... contre nature. Ils ont commencé à entrer par les crevasses de la grotte jusqu'à ce qu'ils nous submergent complètement. Nos soldats ont commencé à tirer, mais... ils étaient trop nombreux. La pluie de silicate avait déjà atteint l'entrée ; il n'y avait nulle part où se replier, alors nous nous sommes retirés plus loin dans les grottes.

Nous n'avons pas assez de ressources pour nous soutenir ici. Certains d'entre-nous sont remontés à la surface pour vérifier la base. Je pense que nous avons perdu environ un tiers de notre équipage. Les Qyllits ont envahi la zone de recherche, couvrant tout le périmètre du Fragment. Il n'y a pas d'issue, Petite joie : nous avons réussi à récupérer une partie du matériel. Plus important encore, nous avons toujours un spectromètre avec un enregistrement de signature du signal principal. À ce moment, il semble que le seul moyen de sortir soit de se diriger vers le signal, mais cela implique d'aller encore plus bas, au moins cela nous permettra de ne pas nous perdre au milieu des grottes. Nous allons placer les balises qu'il nous reste et continuer à descendre, pour l'instant nous en avons encore cinq. Peut-être, toujours que je réussisse à faire fonctionner de nouveau cette maudite balise endommagée. J'espère seulement que ce message atteindra Panopea.

Fin d'émission.

Chapitre 4: Les Croisements

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Les Croisements

Rapport de la XX Conférence du Conseil Universel : Date ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Tenue à bord de la station Ignis, au centre neutre du Core System.

Conseillers de l'Empire : Ji Young-Joo, Julius Lycanis, Thulani Ade'k
Conseillers de la Fédération : Áurea Adonis, Victor Huxley, Elijah Burke
Conseillers de l’Union : Aish Fenix, Haley Nguyen, Mandla Bankole

Ce qui suit est une transcription du briefing de vote pour tout le personnel impliqué dans le programme Explorer : Les ondes de Quantum de Pinnacle, le navire mercenaire de l'Union actuellement en orbite autour de Kepler-7, ont ralenti à un point tel que le Conseil peut enfin envoyer des équipes de sauvetage, de recherche et d'évacuation en lieu sûr. Le conseil se réjouit de constater que la première de ces opérations est déjà achevée et que de nombreux membres des Twins Suns ont été récupérés des décombres, quoique dans des conditions troublantes : ils sont ravagés par des spasmes et la longue exposition au Quantum semble même en avoir fait fondre dans leur corps. Les premières investigations sur le Quantum Drive de Pinnacle ont également pris fin, produisant des résultats déconcertants. Pour autant que nos spécialistes Quantum puissent en juger, il n'y a aucun signe de dysfonctionnement du Drive ou d'interférence externe ; il n'y a absolument aucune cause immédiate à ce qui est arrivé au Quantum Drive de Pinnacle. D'autres recherches sont en cours au moment où nous parlons, ce qui, espérons-le, apporteront des éclaircissements.

Ceci conclut le briefing du Conseil Universel dans le système Kepler. À l'avenir, le Conseil abordera maintenant la question de l'expédition Sera Varse au-delà du système central. Nous avons reçu des nouvelles du Panopea et de leur équipe de renfort, qui auparavant ne pouvait pas descendre en raison de la violente tempête de silicate traversant Mímir. Elle a atteint la surface de la planète. Cette expédition est dirigée par Nicolás Kestrel, Vice-Capitaine du Panopea et citoyen de la Fédération. Jusqu'à présent, l’équipe a reçu un signal de la balise de localisation de Sera Varse à l'entrée d'une grotte à plusieurs kilomètres au-delà de l'emplacement du Fragment. Le signal, cependant, est quelque peu flou : le rapport du Vice-Capitaine indique que le signal de la balise est entrecoupé par de doux chuchotements . Dans le même temps, l'observation du site de recherche abandonné a révélé que ces créatures "Qyllit" utilisaient leurs griffes pour frapper le Fragment, y créant des fissures et creusant le sol autour de lui. Ils détruiront très probablement le Fragment s'ils ne sont pas arrêtés. Le vice-capitaine Kestrel a conseillé que toute tentative d'engager les Qyllits devrait être faite en force, et a rappelé au Conseil que même si le fragment est récupéré, l'environnement instable de Mímir ne permettrait pas d'envoyer des renforts à Sera Varse pour une durée considérable.

Ainsi, le vote soumis au Conseil est le suivant : L'équipe de Panopea devrait-elle se déplacer pour sauver Sera Varse et fournir des renforts à l'équipage sur Mímir, ou devrait-elle tenter de récupérer le Fragment et de le rendre à la flotte avant qu'il ne soit détruit ?

Federation Storyline

Diffusion par Victor Huxley, COO de VasTech

Bon Sol, explorateurs ! J'espère que mon contact soudain ne vous a pas arrêté ; San'a a été envoyée à Vargas pour fournir ses services en tant que Valkyrie et travailler au renforcement structurel de leur nouveau système de communication. Bien que je n'aie pas son penchant pour la franchise militariste, j'espère ajouter un peu de flair VasTech à vos diffusions.

C'était une très bonne décision lors du dernier vote; J'aurais fait la même chose à votre place. Dommage que Mme Varse ait décidé d'amener des formes de vie extraterrestres dans un environnement expérimental important : on pourrait penser qu'un scientifique en saurait plus. Cependant, il semble que suivre son signal de localisation vers le bas nous amènera davantage à découvrir la véritable origine du signal causant de tels dommages à nos planètes minières. Bien que je doive ajouter que la réaction de SpyreCorp à cette situation a été plutôt lente, du moins c'est ce que j'ai entendu dire. Les gens disent qu'ils aimeraient que le président Lee accorde sa confiance à des entreprises mieux informées, et je suis enclin à être d'accord. Nous devons toujours nous assurer que nos systèmes sont suffisamment sécurisés pour résister à ces catastrophes. Du moins, c'est ce que nous pensons chez VasTech.

Quoi qu'il en soit, ce serait évidemment un grand soulagement pour nos mineurs et la stabilité de notre économie si nous les libérions de ce signal. Cependant, l'Union devrait vraiment être tenue responsable des erreurs commises par l'un d'entre eux, n'est-ce pas ? Telles sont les conséquences d'éviter la supervision et la structure digne de confiance : l'anarchie est générée.

C'est bien quand c'est sur vos planètes, mais maintenant cela nous affecte tous et pourrait causer plus de victimes dans le processus. Heureusement, je connais le vice-capitaine Kestrel depuis un certain temps - lui et moi avons étudié ensemble à l'académie militaire - et je suis sûr qu'il est plus que capable de ramener ce fragment à la maison.

Avec tout ce qui se passe, je sens que je peux compter sur votre sagesse, Scouts. À partir de la prochaine conférence, mon assistante Ana s'occupera des émissions, car je me concentrerai entièrement sur le remplacement de San'a au Conseil. Bonne chance avec votre vote et continuez à avancer.

Victor

Empire Storyline

Une directive de Ji Young-Joo, émissaire de l'Empereur

C'est encore une journée splendide pour être à l'abri sous les ailes de notre Empereur - puisse-t-il vivre plus longtemps que les étoiles ! Vos efforts lors du vote précédent sont à nouveau salués par l'Impereur Solas ; les autres factions voient le résultat comme un accident, un obstacle sur la route.

Mais au sein de l'Empire, il n'en est rien ! Pour l'instant, nous avons appris qu'il y a plus dans ce "fragment", ainsi que certaines de ses propriétés : son Eminence a daigné me transmettre sa certitude que le comportement de ces créatures extraterrestres est influencé d'une certaine manière par les qualités du fragment.

S'il était possible de récupérer cet éclat et d'en apprendre encore plus sur ses propriétés, peut-être que ce pouvoir pourrait être exploité et façonné selon la volonté de l'Empereur. De plus, ces créatures semblent penser que le fragment leur appartient ; il serait juste de leur montrer le contraire et d'empêcher ce fléau qu’ils représentent de faire des découvertes sur l'humanité, voire sur l'Empire.

Bien sûr, dans ce cas, nous abandonnerions peut-être une chance de connaître enfin les véritables origines de ce signal. Bien que je sois sûr que vous, avec le reste de l'Empire, préféreriez de loin la pourriture de l'Union, ces chuchotements d'en bas intriguent.

Après tout, notre Empereur ne nous guide-t-il pas à peu près de la même manière, interprétant les doux chants de l'Oracle pour ses sujets ? Peut-être devrions-nous plonger plus bas et découvrir les mystères de Mímir.

Le Conseil a décidé de vous donner douze heures pour voter dans ce cas, chers Explorateurs, mais sur quoi, je ne sais pas.

En tant que citoyens de l'Empire, vous êtes essentiels, pas divisés, et vos pensées sont guidées par les yeux qui voient tout de l'Empereur Solas !

Prenez ces douze heures et montrez-leur que vous n'avez besoin que d'une.

Sic itur ad astra

Union Storyline

Communication de Haley Nguyen, Membre de l’Union et représentante Vox

Bonjour Camarades.

Je commencerais bien cette communication par un "Bonjour, Camarades", mais il y a des jours où cela semble malvenu. Un million de morts... et pour quoi, vraiment ? Sans doute que les membres de l'Union sous le commandement d'Ivona ont aussi quitté cette bataille avec un goût amer dans la bouche. La seule chose qui me permet de rester saine d'esprit est qu'elle n'ait pas assisté au débriefing du Conseil, ce qui nous a évité de la voir jubiler depuis le côté Impérial de la table du Conseil.

Tout ce que nous pouvons faire, c'est aller de l'avant. L'Union ne peut pas laisser des moments comme celui-ci nous décourager de faire ce que nous croyons être juste. Le dernier vote a été très serré, et j'aimerais transmettre la gratitude et le respect que j'ai entendu de la part de  nombreux membres de Vox à tous ceux qui ont fait entendre leur voix.

Nous construisons ce futur ensemble, c'est la seule façon de le faire. Espérons simplement que les Crimson Wolves resteront à l'écart pendant un long moment.

Aussi difficile que cela puisse être de sortir d'un tel état d'esprit, j'ai un autre vote à discuter avec vous. En regardant la situation de manière pragmatique, le Vox est tout à fait d'accord pour que le fragment reste où il est. Nous ne pouvons pas ignorer complètement la théorie de Sera, et pour la sécurité de l'Union, il est important que nous sachions ce qui se cache derrière ce signal ; le Bastion est la pierre angulaire de toute notre faction - sans parler de nos opérations militaires - et nous ne pouvons pas nous permettre de le compromettre à l'avenir.

D'un autre côté, on ne peut ignorer le danger potentiel que nous faisons courir à cette flotte en la gardant sur Mímir. Personnellement, je peux comprendre que certains d'entre vous préfèrent éviter toute perte de vie supplémentaire. Le vote a lieu dans 15 minutes, Explorateurs. Comme d'habitude, votre majorité sera le seul vote de l'Union ; rappelez-vous que le Vox soutiendra toute décision que vous prendrez.

Pour un avenir meilleur.

Haley

Résultats des votes

Le Conseil universel a regroupé les votes de chacune des factions : Envoyer des Renforts 3 (Empire,Fédération,Union) , Récupérer le tesson 0 ()

Le vote final est en faveur de l'envoi du vice-capitaine Kestrel dans le réseau de grottes de Mímir pour rechercher l'expédition du commandant Varse. Nous avons reçu des informations du vice-capitaine que l'opération est en cours, et qu'ils ont verrouillé la balise de localisation du commandant.

L'arrivée

Ce qui suit est une diffusion de Nicolás Kestrel, capitaine adjoint du Panopea.

Origine : Mímir, réseau de grottes
Date : 3ème relation : Date ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Désignation : rapport de reconnaissance

Voici le vice-capitaine Kestrel, qui fait son rapport depuis l'intérieur des grottes de Mímir. Nous avons passé moins de deux miles à ce stade et les grottes continuent d'être encore plus profondes. À cette profondeur, de fines veines de Quantum traversent chaque paroi. Je dis des veines parce que c'est ce qu'elles sont : elles pulsent et dépassent le long de la surface de la roche.

Nous n'avons pas vu de Qyllits dans les derniers kilomètres. Les quelques spécimens que nous avons rencontrés lors de notre descente initiale ont été facilement éliminées ou n'ont montré aucune intention agressive, se dirigeant vers le haut en ne nous prêtant pas d’attention. Notre équipage a pensé qu'il valait mieux ne pas les énerver davantage, alors nous les avons laissés tranquilles.

Il y a trois kilomètres, nous avons dépassé la dernière balise de localisation laissée par Sera. Les…... chuchotements que j'ai mentionnés dans mon rapport précédent étaient plus perceptibles près de cette balise, mais ont depuis disparu. Normalement, je n'en parlerais pas, mais à la lumière des récents constats que je vais maintenant vous illustrer, l'information semble tout à fait pertinente.

Notre équipe se repose actuellement dans une clairière, une intersection de plusieurs grottes. Ici, nous avons trouvé deux membres de l'expédition initiale de Sera, l'un nommé Selin et l'autre dont je ne connais pas le nom et qui est actuellement en réanimation. Selin ne parle pas beaucoup, mais d'après ce qu'elle nous a dit, une fois les balises de repérage épuisées, il a été décidé que les membres de l'expédition resteraient sur place pour servir de point de passage aux renforts.

Selin a également reçue une copie des journaux vocaux fait par le Capit- NON, par le commandant Sera Varse, pour rapporter tout au long de la descente et pour tenir trace de l’expédition à travers les grottes. Je vais maintenant reproduire un segment du 45e de ces journaux de bord. J’invite le Conseil à écouter très attentivement.

"... me fait penser à la maison et à un lent coucher de soleil sur le ciel bleuté. On dirait que j'avais raison. Le signal devient plus fort, nous devons être proches maintenant. J'ai commencé à l'entendre aussi - je pense que c'est Kate qui l'a remarqué en premier, mais il y a ces chuchotements tout autour de nous. Ils sont doux et presque accueillants. Je les entends même quand on coupe le signal. Leurs mots sont difficiles à déchiffrer, mais bon, j'ai besoin de temps, mais je suis presque certain d'en reconnaître un. Dans quelques jours, nous descendrons plus loin; le peu de nourriture que nous avons trouvé dans cette clairière s'épuise rapidement.

Je ne sais pas quoi penser de tout cela. Comme je l'ai déjà dit, ni moi ni aucun membre de mon équipe n'avons entendu de chuchotements depuis que nous avons quitté la dernière balise. J'ai demandé à Selin si elle les entend, mais elle se contente de me regarder paralysée, ses yeux remplis de peur, et je ne peux pas lui faire pression sur le sujet. Deux membres de mon équipage resteront sur place pour fournir de la nourriture et de la chaleur aux survivants, tandis que le reste d'entre nous continuera à descendre.

Il devient de plus en plus difficile d'atteindre le Panopea, les quelques membres d'équipage restés à bord me disent que la tempête s'intensifie d'heure en heure. Il faudra probablement un certain temps avant que je puisse transmettre un autre rapport. Si Dieu le veut, nous aurons Sera et son équipage avec nous d'ici là.

Chapitre 5: Au bord du gouffre

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On the Brink

Report from the 21st conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Julius Lycanis, Moira Craine
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, Victor Huxley, Elijah Burke
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Haley Nguyen, Mandla Bankole

The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:

… and the Panopea has reported no further contact with either Commander Varse or Vice-captain Kestrel. The atmosphere of Mímir is increasing in density with each passing day, and the crew has reported intermittent bursts of light that can be seen below the now heavy cloud cover. The fleet will continue to monitor the situation and report their observations.

Moving on to more immediate matters, preparations for the funeral service for the Forge World citizens who lost their lives in the assault against the Crimson Wolves are nearing completion. The service itself will be held on station Edison, in the Lacaille system. As it is the Council’s duty to ensure this service is not marred by more tragedy, we now must turn our attention to a situation developing on the agricultural planet Morn, just outside of the Lacaille system in Union sector Z-3.

Some time after the 20th conference of this Council, during a regular trade visit to Morn, a representative of the Tonocom Defence corporation – Lucille Whitlock – took notice of Morn’s central fusion generator. Upon brief inspection she found the large generator was a partially adapted version of a military-grade model owned and developed by Tonocom Defence.

After receiving this information, Tonocom Defence regrettably did not contact the Council. The Corporation initially requested the people of Morn pay some form of compensation, which their point of contact, Darshan Kel, categorically refused. After consulting with President Adonis, Tonocom Defence then sent a fleet with the goal of “peacefully and conclusively reclaiming the appropriated technology”, in their own words.

There are many conflicting accounts of what happened once this fleet arrived on Morn, but their conclusions are all similar: the fleet from Tonocom Defence, justifiably or no, was met with hostilities, and a skirmish ensued. Both parties fired shots, resulting in the deaths of several Federation soldiers, and gravely wounding some of Morn’s inhabitants. So far, there are no reported deaths on the side of the Union. The Corporation’s fleet was forced to retreat to Federation space, and Tonocom Defence began readying another force to reclaim the technology from Morn. This is where the current situation stands.

The people of Morn continue to refuse to pay compensatory fees to Tonocom Defence, with Darshan Kel stating the fees would render the planet’s economy unsustainable. Lucille Whitlock, the Council’s contact for this incident, has also refused to lower the proposed fee. Darshan proffered that accusations of appropriation are misplaced, as according to the people of Morn the fusion generator simply crashed on their planet. On the opposing side, Lucille insists that Tonocom Defence has no records of a fusion generator being lost in this way. Currently, the Council’s priority is to defuse this situation as cleanly and calmly as possible, to avoid any disturbances or further casualties near station Edison. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Council rule that the technology is Tonocom Defence’s by right, and order the people of Morn to return the technology, or do they rule that Morn be allowed to keep the technology, and order Tonocom Defence’s forces to stand down?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Federation Storyline

Transmission from Ana Plíšková, assistant to Victor Huxley, COO of VasTech

Good sol, Explorers. Allow me to offer commendations from both President Adonis and Mr. Huxley on the outcome of the last vote. You can all be proud of the merits your individual accomplishments have granted you.

I have been asked to brief you on any developments within the Federation, as well as its position on the current vote. San’a has begun her operations on Vargas to support the SpyreCorp network, and ensure that mining production continues at an expected tempo. It is the first time a Valkyrie unit has been deployed in such a capacity, and the results so far have been excellent. It is a true testament to the engineering of VasTech that a combat suit as versatile as the Valkyrie unit exists.

According to President Adonis, she specified that the initial Tonocom Defence force was to arrive on Morn unarmed. It would seem members of the Corporation went against the president’s advised course of action. There will be systemic repercussions for these actions, but this also means the Federation’s stance on this issue is somewhat complex.

Since the negotiations on Morn have already been tarnished by violence, and due to the nature of the Union’s governance, some inhabitants of Morn may resist the Council’s decision. In this case, it will become necessary to take the technology by force, and more Federation lives will be lost. Comparing this to the near-negligible effect of a minor Corporation such as Tonocom Defence losing a single patent, standing down may be the more measured option. When faced with a faction as disorganized and scattered as the Union, it is sometimes useful to set a good example.

At the same time, VasTech does of course advise against setting precedent for factions to appropriate the Federation’s technology. It bears repeating that this is a military-grade fusion generator, which brings up the question of why an agricultural planet such as Morn would have such heavy need of it. Perhaps it is not a threat now, but given the Union’s lack of oversight it may one day fall into more dangerous hands.

Now that you know the Federation’s official stance, you are free to discuss the issue amongst yourselves.
Ana

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

Once more I must bring to you the despicable prospects of a vote, Explorers. I’m sure by now you are all sick of this farce the Council calls democracy. All the same, continue to view this and every subsequent vote as an opportunity to spread the illustrious wisdom of the Empire throughout the Core Systems.

Some recognition is in order for your previous vote, of course. These whispers on Mímir will no doubt lead us on towards uncovering the mysteries of the universe. So our Emperor – may he outlive the stars – has assured us, his Imperial subjects. Your efforts have of course also brought us the bastard Montez, whose public execution will soon be upon us. The Emperor, in his brilliance, has appointed Julius Lycanis to a temporary position on the Council as a sign of a returned faith in the house.

During this conference, the name Morn touched my ears with familiarity, so I asked our Mendacian Division for information. Apparently, this is the same planet to which our Mendaces traced the theft of a large shipment of high-quality Imperial spices from Eden Galatean not long ago. Of course, it being a Union planet, it was not possible to reclaim those spices by force without exposing our Mendaces, but now… I have spoken to President Adonis and, like the judicious businesswoman she is, the president is more than willing to return these exquisite spices, should Tonocom Defence happen to find any evidence of them.

However, in speaking to the Mendacian Division I have gained some additional insights; it would seem the situation on Vargas and the other mining planets is not as stable as the Federation would like us to believe. If they lose control over this proprietary technology, it may destabilize their systems even further. A crack in the border between the Federation and the Union would be a welcome boon to the Empire.

It is clear then, that in casting this vote we strike a blow against either faction. The question then becomes, who do we wish to cripple? An enticing proposition to be sure. Let the hand of Imperator Solas guide you, Imperials, and vote with confidence.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Aish Fenix, Union member and Vox representative

Hello Comrades, Aish here. I don’t think we’ve been explicitly introduced, but I gather you’ve seen my name a few times on your council reports. You’re probably wondering where Haley is- she’s been escorted out of the conference hall. You should’ve seen her honestly; if it hadn’t been for the third bodyguard I think she would’ve broken Áurea’s jaw. Quick PSA: don’t get into a shouting match with a Celestial.

Not like Áurea wouldn’t have deserved it though; what was she thinking, sanctioning a fleet to Morn? There’s no universe in which that turns out well for anyone. Although I don’t think Morn’s reaction was just surprise or self-defence; from what I hear, there’s an extremist sect of the Ojin-Kai operating out of the planet, and has been for a while. I can’t give you anything concrete of course, but that fusion generator is probably being used for more than just farming. Seems likely the Ojin-Kai were the ones that opened fire on the Feds, but for whatever reason Morn’s covering for them.

Anyway, no matter what happened, that doesn’t give Tonocom the right to demand the tech is returned to them. All life is worth something, but a few Federation soldiers is nothing compared to the amount of people that would be endangered by taking away the central power supply for an entire planet.

All the same, if I know the Federation, Tonocom Defence isn’t going to take something like this lying down. They’d never disobey a direct order from the Council of course, but there’s bound to be consequences if they don’t get what they want. We can always house the people of Morn on the Bastion for the time being, so there might be merit in having the Federation owe us one, and preventing this from escalating further.

Anyway, that’s gonna be all from me. My thoughts are with Sera, Nicolás, and the rest of the Panopea’s fleet- I hope yours are too. Make sure to discuss with your fellow Union members, and remember that the Vox is with you, Explorers.

Good luck, and keep your head high.
Aish

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Morn returns the tech 3 (Empire,Federation,Union) , Tonocom stands down 0 ()

The final vote is in favor of having Morn return the technology to Tonocom Defense. Darshan Kel has been sent back to the planet with the directive from the Council, along with a ship from Tonocom, and it’s expected that the handover of the generator will happen shortly.

Drastic Measures

The following is the full transmission detailing the conclusion of Tonocom Defence’s operation on the planet Morn:

Transmission from Aaron Vice, representing Tonocom Defence
Origin: Federation assault ship Carbuncle
Dating: 2nd briefing – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: operation brief

Our operation on Morn is concluded. We were expecting to meet resistance, but not like this. The planned handover never happened; our units had to trek to the surface to even find the damn generator. That was how we learned the true nature of the situation on Morn. Numerous legions of soldiers – trained soldiers, not farmers – stood between our forces and the generator, all equipped with the same combat gear, emblazoned with the same emblem, and brandishing weapons far beyond what an agricultural planet should be able to manufacture.

Citizen evacuation on the Union’s side had already begun. I’d never seen the Bastion before, can’t even begin to describe- it was like the world suddenly had a ceiling, I guess. Our attack against the sect of the Ojin-Kai mercenary clan, as we now know them, was over almost immediately; they had firepower, but we had the numbers. Our forces took some heavy blows, but those brave soldiers died to let us secure our mission objective: the fusion generator. From what I’ve been told, Lucille Whitlock, who was initially assigned to this brief, is currently also unaccounted for.

Transmission ends.

Upon their completion of the evacuation, Union members from the Bastion assisted Tonocom Defence’s forces in their investigation of the Ojin-Kai’s operations. As President Adonis apparently initially suspected, this sect of the Ojin-Kai was not merely present on Morn, but was also all but running the planet, its inhabitants living in constant fear of the clan, acting only as a smokescreen for the Ojin-Kai’s illicit operations.

Furthermore, from communication logs uncovered at their operation site, it seems the clan also had colluders within Tonocom Defence; colluders who provided Ojin-Kai with the fusion generator, as well as weapons that could draw power from it. These allowed the clan to raid passing transport ships, and conduct covert Quantum trades. Tonocom Defence has assured the Council that it has already begun removing those involved in the collusion from any position of power, and that a court hearing will be held soon to determine their sentence. The identity of Ojin-Kai’s buyer for their Quantum trades, however, remains unknown.

With regard to the materials stolen by the Ojin-Kai, an agreement has been made between the Union and the Federation that the latter faction be allowed to take possession of any and all materials procured by the Ojin-Kai in their raids. Due to the involvement of people from both factions in this incident, the Union and the Federation have also agreed to take no more direct actions on the matter. However, as Morn’s people are still dependent on a significant power supply, they will need to remain on the Bastion for the time being.

As a result of the ceased hostilities, the memorial service on station Edison will be continuing as planned. Various councilmembers will be attending the service, which will last for three planetary rotations of the station. President Elijah Burke will also be reading a tribute at the service to the Federation soldiers that gave their lives to secure the fusion generator on Morn. The Council invites any members of the Explorer program who wish to express their condolences to make the journey to station Edison as well.

The Aftermath

Lucille Whitlock stands on a raised hill overlooking the ruined settlement of Kazan, and watches the thick veil of smoke rise up and into the deep blue sky. A strip of rose-coloured sunlight streaks across her jacket, tracing a thin line across the dried blood on her sleeve. In this light, it almost looks like frosting, or the byproduct of an ill-fated paintjob.

Her eyes, soft and tired, hang behind a fringe of light-grey hair. Broad strands of ochre grass swirl around her ankles in the fragile evening breeze. She never wants to look away. She feels the wound in her stomach with her left hand and checks the vitals on her suit. It’s keeping her alive, but barely. And not for much longer. She just wants to stop, to have it be done, but something doesn’t let her; something keeps her moving forward. Before her eyes have had enough of the broken houses and fractured metal sheets, she tears them away, as the wind begins to pick up.

“Lucille Whitlock.” The voice is calm, expectant.

Lucille starts. She takes in the figure before her: the unruly mop of curled black hair, the rough beginnings of a beard, and the thick parka, slick from the slight drizzle. But there’s more there- something behind the eyes…

“W-who are you?”

The man glances down to her hand, still covering the open wound. “You’re hurt”

“Answer the question.” She grits her teeth, reaching beneath her belt- nothing. Of course. Three thousand credits for a sidearm, and it doesn’t even stay in its holster when you get exploded.

“A friend.”

“That’s not an answer.” She takes a step back.

The man smiles, bright white canines flashing in the evening light. “Well, it’ll have to do for now.”

“Fuck this.” Lucille snorts, and presses her hand deeper into her wound, feeling the pain spur her to action. “If you’re going to kill me, just do it already.”

“Eager to die, are you?”

“I prefer quick and easy to slow and painful, personally.”

“That why you agreed to help Adonis?”

The energy drains from her body. How does he- “I don’t know what you mean.” Her legs won’t move. Lucille slumps down, feeling the cool surface of stone against her back.

“Oh, come on. Tonocom might care this much about a generator, but Áurea certainly doesn’t.” The man gestures to the other edge of the hill. “You did an excellent job wiping out the Ojin-Kai, though. Good excuse for a raid.”

“Thanks.” The tiredness is setting in. She can’t think anymore. “If you’re not going to kill me, can you at least let me die in peace?” She mutters, her mouth almost motionless.

“Even if they’re still out there?”

Lucille raises her half-closed eyes. “The Ojin-Kai? You’re lying.”

“Am I?” He seems almost bemused.

“The Vox would’ve-”

“-The Vox can’t do anything about this. It’s majority rule here, and Mercer has more than enough planets in his pocket. He’s played this very well.”

Now Lucille’s head is thundering, hundreds of brand-new thoughts racing through it. She scoffs. “And you Union folk call that governance?”

“I’m not Union.” The response is immediate. It’s the first time the man’s tone has had any degree of harshness to it, like he’s biting down on every word. “And no, I don’t call that governance. But Mercer doesn’t care what happens with the Council, and the Vox can’t risk fracturing the Union. It’s a delicate balance that they can’t upset.”

Lucille runs a shaky hand through her hair, tracing streaks of red into the grey. “Why are you telling me this?”

“Because we can do something.”

“Oh, give me a break.”

“I’m being serious. You’re smart, you’re headstrong, and most importantly…” he gestures at her wound. “You’re willing to die for what you believe in. A Fed who sacrifices their own colleagues, not to mention the reputation of their company?” He grins. “Talk about brutal.” He stoops down, his face almost level with hers, and extends his hand. “We need people like you, Lucille.”

She cocks her head, slowly. Measuredly. “Wait, we? Who’s we?”

“I suppose now’s as good a time as any for introductions.” The man raises his other hand up, breaking the last ray of sunlight. He snaps his fingers, and the sky, and the clouds, and the hills begin to move. Or rather, something moves out of them. About a dozen or so figures. Cloaking devices, Lucille thinks subconsciously, her engineer’s brain working on overtime. She barely has the energy to take in all the faces, all the instruments dangling off the bodies, all their different shapes. Some thin and wiry, others bulky and broad-shouldered. One of them looks about the age her daughter would’ve been, another is limping and using a back-support unit.

The man’s hand is still outstretched. He wiggles his fingers a little. Lucille meets his eyes, and for a moment looks beyond the veneer of the parka, beyond the joke of a haircut, and into something deeper. Something vicious, elegant, and eternal. “Alright, what the hell.” She sighs, gripping it firmly and lifting herself up. “But first you’ve got to get me off this rock.”

“Of course. And may I say, so glad to have you on board.” The man smiles, his eyes shimmering with the light of a thousand suns. “I’m Emmet, and these…” He gestures to the assembly behind him. “…are the Faceless.”

Chapter 6: The Ides

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The Ides

Report from the 22nd conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Moira Craine
Councilmembers for the Federation: Kim Lee, Victor Huxley, Elijah Burke
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Mandla Bankole, Trice Chavos

The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:

…It seems the activity around Mímir is increasing. The bursts of light are more frequent, and cover the entire planet. Now that the evacuation of Kepler-7 is complete and investigation into the Pinnacle’s malfunctioning Quantum Drive can begin full force, the Universal Council will send reinforcements to the Panopea as soon as it can.

Our crew analyzing the disappearance of the Crimson Wolves’ command ship has isolated the Quantum wave data from before the ship vanished. At first glance, this data appears similar to the most recent readings from the Pinnacle. Further research will hopefully shed more light on this.

Moving on to our main discussion for this week. Most of you will already know this, but Councilor Lycanis has been murdered. Before we have the time to mourn his tragic passing, it falls to the Council to make a decision. Julius Lycanis’ death was no accident, that much is clear.

His ship departed station Ignis directly after the 21st conference, returning to the Eden planet of house Lycanis for the execution. Slightly before arrival, the crew checked on Lycanis, who had been in his cabin the entire journey. Through the comms, Lycanis assured them that he was doing fine, and asked the crew to leave him be. As the doors to his cabin were gene-locked, the crew waited until arriving at Eden Lycanis before having Marcia Lycanis, Julius’ wife, open the door.

It was there that Julius was found, stabbed in the back with a curved dagger, his robes drenched, a pool of blood around him. Upon brief examination of the comms, the crew found that they had been wired to loop the same audio. The particular nature of the veins in Julius’ forehead identified that the dagger was also not the main cause of death, but rather a poison manufactured primarily in the Federation. Another peculiarity of this incident is that Councilor Lycanis’ room contains a trigger for raising the alarm. The position of his body suggests he would have been more than capable of using this, but did not do so.

Records of entry to Councilor Lycanis’ room show only two other occupants in the time before the ship departed station Ignis: Councilor Craine, and Ana Plíšková, assistant to Councilor Huxley. Ana Plíšková was the last to enter the Councilor’s room, only an hour before his ship left the station. After hearing this, house Lycanis consulted the Oracle, which assured the Emperor that the murder “did not come from within”. House Lycanis is now demanding the Council hand Ana Plíšková over to them, so they may put her to justice.

Other factions, and even some of the Imperial councilmembers here, are somewhat sceptical. The Empire often eschews DNA-scans, believing them a disregard for the Oracle’s insights. However, if ordered by the Council, House Lycanis could be made to conduct one on the knife that stabbed Julius. Additionally, though the Emperor continues to distance himself from this issue, councilmember Ji Young-Joo has assured us that, if the Council chooses to place its trust in the Oracle in this instance, the Empire will offer the aid of their artifact to the Council for a single vote in the future. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Council offer up Ana Plíšková to house Lycanis to prevent further escalation, in return for a single use of the Oracle in future, or does the Council order that a DNA-scan be conducted on the blade that stabbed Julius Lycanis, and risk angering his house further?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Federation Storyline

Transmission from Calvin Chase, second clerk in the office of President Lee

Hey there, all you Federation Explorers! They needed someone for the transmission since Ms. Plíšková is currently being held in custody, so that duty falls into my humble hands. I’ve been fully briefed on the situation by President Lee of course, but I’m not exactly used to this kind of direct communication, so forgive me if I slip up here and there.

Oh, and concerning the developments of the previous vote, President Lee has asked me to extend her congratulations as well. I was watching the results as they were announced, and it was nail-biting! Glad we’ve got the technology back, too; I hear President Adonis is employing Tonocom to help strengthen the defenses around the border with the Union- If they have extremist splinter cells on their fringe systems, who knows what else could be lurking there?

Speaking about the current vote, I can’t tell you exactly what the official stance is. President Lee informed me the Federation was looking to procure the use of the Oracle, but then Mr. Huxley stopped by my office to tell me there was no way Ms. Plíšková was being handed over! Apparently, she was only in Councilor Lycanis’ cabin to discuss a business proposition on behalf of VasTech. Just before departure was the only time he could make it, as Julius – excuse me, Councilor Lycanis – was speaking to Councilor Craine all afternoon.

The whole station’s in a big uproar honestly, and the other councilmembers are on high alert. I don’t blame them; it’s a bad time to be a councilor right now. The only other thing I can say about the situation is this: I’ve worked with Ana, and she’s always been a little… off. Just one of those people that’s a bit unsettling, you know? Like she’d do anything as long as she was ordered to do it.

Anyway, those are my two cents, Explorers. Good luck on the vote; I look forward to seeing the results for this one, too.

Cheers,
Calvin

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

What a dark day this is for the Empire. One of our own, from a house as esteemed as Lycanis, has been killed in cold blood. By a Federation lackey, no less! No- we mustn’t leap to conclusions. As I have said before, Explorers, the songs of the Oracle carry much weight, but sometimes we cannot see exactly how heavy their burden is.

House Lycanis may be right, but one cannot deny that grief has clouded their vision; Marcia Lycanis is hardly in her right state of mind, and to seek direct action from the Council on such a matter is- well, the house will face consequences for it. Our glorious Emperor – may he outlive the stars – will see to that.

Furthermore, this situation has driven us into a corner. The Council would never part ways with this conniving witch if Imperator Solas had not ordained to offer the services of the Oracle, an artifact that is the Empire’s by right. I have been assured that this is so the Empire does not look weak, as petulant children begging for the Council’s grace. Of course, this is mainly a rodomontade- having to give up our Oracle to the cretins at the Council would be the highest of insults. As detestable as a DNA-scan might be, it may not be wise to let the whims of a single house influence the path of the Empire.

Our Emperor has washed his hands of this situation, which by consequence assigns you as emissaries of the Empire in this vote. Carry the Oracle’s burden forward, and brighten this dark day.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Aish Fenix, Union member and Vox representative

Hey there Comrades, me again. Haley’s off still; she’s helping on board the Bastion for this UC conference. The events of the past votes have been hard on all of us, but I think she’s taking it worst of all. She’s helping out the refugees from Morn at the moment, and hopefully that’ll do her some good.

I’ve seen a lot of talk of surprise and disgust within the Vox on the matter of the extremist sect of the Ojin-Kai, but I find that a bit disingenuous. I think Mandla would disagree with me – and I know Haley would – but in my opinion you can’t expect to build a unified galaxy without having to deal with a few rotten apples.

For what it’s worth, looks like the focus has shifted from our side of space for now, which – I’ll say it – is a welcome bit of relief. As for the actual vote though, I’m not sure on this one. It’s expected that Solas would find a way to slither out of any form of responsibility for the situation, but he knows exactly what he’s doing- dangling the Oracle in front of us would almost be insulting if it wasn’t so darn useful. We could use it to help Sera, could use it to locate the lost ships, any number of things. Of course, it would be up to the Council in the end, but I don’t think anything but good can come out of that deal.

All the same, whether Solas is involved or no, it’s still the Empire. Yes, the last time they more than held up their end of the bargain, but we still don’t know exactly what their motives were in that situation. Personally I don’t think the cost of potentially sending an innocent Fed to die is too much to pay for a shot with the Oracle, but that’s not my call to make. All I can say to you is: remember the tenets of the Union, and remember why you joined in the first place.

Good luck, and keep your head high.
Aish

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Offer up Ana 0 () , Conduct a DNA-scan 3 (Empire,Federation,Union)

The final vote is in favor of conducting a DNA-scan on the knife that stabbed Julius Lycanis. Marcia Lycanis and her house have been informed of this decision. Though the outcome has clearly angered the house, they have done nothing to directly oppose the scan. A fleet containing some of the Council’s best forensic scientists has already been dispatched, and we are expecting results from the DNA-scan soon.

The Turn

Transmission from Chhaya Adin, on board the Clavalum
Origin: Lycanis luxury travel vessel the Clavalum, orbiting Eden Lycanis
Dating: 1st report – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: forensic report

The requested DNA-scan and forensic analysis has been completed. Apologies for the delayed arrival of this report, we- well, our team wanted to make sure that the information we obtained was accurate. We’ve done multiple tests and collected multiple samples – not only from the dagger, but from the room itself – to corroborate the data. DNA-scans are not easy to tamper with, but if the sample size is limited, it is possible, hence the need for additional samples.

We’ve found that the accounts and records of Moira Craine and Ana Plíšková visiting the councilor’s cabin are correct: genetic prints of both women matching the Council’s database were found in the room. Additionally, cause of death for Councilor Lycanis is now confirmed to be the Federation-made poison, and not the initial wound. The poison itself is slow-acting, and from the pattern of the bloodstains in the room, it seems that Councilor Lycanis was conscious for at least ten minutes from the onset of the poison until his death. This raises further questions as to why he did not raise the alarm, but… this next piece of data may raise other, more pressing ones.

The genetic information our team found on the dagger, as well as about the room – and, most surprisingly, in the liquid on the councilor’s robes – was neither Ana Plíšková’s nor Moira Craine’s. It did not, in fact, exist at all in the Council’s database. This is not wholly surprising, as the database is far from exhaustive, but meant that our team had to consult genetic records of each faction individually. It was in the genetic records of the Empire that we found a match, and professionalism compels me to first restate the exhaustive nature of our team’s analysis; manufacturing a result as convincing as this is near impossible.

The genetic print on the dagger lodged in Councilor Lycanis’ back belonged to Montez Lycanis, leader of the Crimson Wolves, and the man who – to my team’s knowledge – is imprisoned hundreds of miles below us in a cell on Eden Lycanis.

Transmission ends.

Members of the noble house on Eden Lycanis have also been forwarded this transmission. Marcia Lycanis cut off communication with the Council since the vote was relayed to her, but other members of house Lycanis have reached out to offer information on her behalf. They have confirmed that Montez Lycanis remains in his cell, held by the strongest chains Imperial Forge Worlds can produce. He is under constant supervision, and none of house Lycanis’ guards have reported any unusual activity. His execution, however, has apparently been postponed indefinitely by order of the Emperor.

Furthermore, the Universal Council has been informed by members of house Lycanis that the noble house will be removing itself from any involvement in this affair, and that the matter is no longer the Council’s concern. The Council’s ships have been dismissed, and are currently making their journey back. This, in turn, means that Ms. Plíšková is no longer directly involved in the incident. She has been released from confinement on station Ignis, and will be reinstated as the Federation’s faction contact for those involved in the Explorer program.

Chapter 7: The Void

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The Void

Report from the 23rd conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Moira Craine, Thulani Ade’k
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, Victor Huxley, Elijah Burke
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Mandla Bankole, Haley Nguyen

The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:

… and we have had no more contact with house Lycanis since the incident. No further confirmation of Montez’ imprisonment, nor any substantial evidence to support the house’s assertion. You are correct, Councilor Fenix- it may be that this is soon to become a matter in which the Council will need to involve itself.

Currently, however, we have more pressing matters on our hands. Councilors, you should all be aware of the Panopea, the ship that was sent out beyond the Core Systems, and which – until recently – was orbiting the planet Mímir, waiting for contact from either Commander Varse or Vice-captain Kestrel.

I say until recently because the fact is: Mímir has vanished. This information comes to the Council through the Panopea’s most recent report. This report described the increasingly frequent lights in Mímir’s atmosphere bursting out of the cloud cover in the form of solid strands, which wrapped around the planet and enveloped it in a thick, bright haze. Once the haze had cleared, the planet had disappeared. In its place hung a mass of swirling fractic light, far smaller than Mímir. The light appears to be warping the space around itself.

The crew of the Panopea have confirmed that every trace of the planet has vanished from their sensors, but that there are a number of unknown signals emanating from the center of the light – the point at which the energy is most concentrated. Some of these signals may be from Commander Varse, though the light itself is such a volatile source of energy that the signals are impossible to isolate. Additionally, they are interspersed with heavy bouts of static and, when measured, appear to be coming from thousands of light years away, so it is clear there is significant disruption present.

As noted, the crew has observed that there appears to be a center to the light, and that it may be possible for a ship to venture into this center. Braving such a high amount of energetic resistance would require a class-A vessel at the very least, and the Panopea is the only ship in the fleet that qualifies. Unfortunately, the Panopea also powers the more advanced research equipment the fleet possesses. Without that, disentangling the signals from the light will prove nigh impossible.

The Council does not currently have the resources to send any more forces to assist the Panopea; our fleets are returning from Kepler-7 as we speak. We will send reinforcements by the next conference, but by then the situation may have worsened, or at the very least, changed. However, while the fleet is waiting, the research team may be able to find a way to stabilize the energy of the light, or gain further clarity on the signals. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the fleet beyond the Core Systems send the Panopea into the light, in an attempt to discern what happened to the planet Mímir, or do they withhold their advances, potentially abandoning the planet, and study the signals from the mass of light in the hopes of stabilizing it before reinforcements arrive?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Federation Storyline

Transmission from Ana Plíšková, assistant to Victor Huxley, COO of VasTech

Good sol, Explorers. I apologize on Mr. Chase’s behalf for the unprofessional communication during the last conference, which I will seek to rectify from now on, so as to uphold the standards of both the Federation and of VasTech.

It is not a trivial thing to be accused of murder, and be kept captive on the same station you are living in. I feel eyes following me wherever I go, even now. Thankfully, I do not feel alone. I am very grateful for the efforts Mr. Huxley made on my behalf to have me freed, and for the concessions he was able to negotiate from the Council. It is also a relief to have my name cleared; I believe I have you to thank for that, Explorers.

It appears certain councilmembers remain unconvinced by the DNA-scan, or so President Adonis has informed me. This, of course, is an absurd assertion; to think that such a widely used piece of Federation-manufactured technology could be fooled or manipulated is beyond ridicule.

On the subject of technology, it is very important we do not lose the equipment on board the Panopea. Though the Universal Council may believe that lives are at stake, the development of such equipment is worth more than a single investigation team. The lives it will enrich in the long run dwarf those that may be saved by taking such a heavy risk. It is, however, also worth considering that inaction may lead to further complications: perhaps the entire fleet may soon be swallowed up by this light, or worse, simply destroyed.

I believe that is all for this briefing. I leave this time-sensitive decision in your capable hands, Explorers. After the last vote, I am more confident than ever that you will make the right decision.

Ana

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

Glory be unto you on this day, Explorers! It is a day of change, and of providence- a day in which the history of humanity will engrave itself into the stars for eternity, and from which the Empire’s skies can only broaden!

The Emperor – may he outlive the stars – though he has washed his majestic hands of the incidents, offers his congratulations to you on your vote following the last conference. This “DNA-scan” may go against the principles of the Empire, but it has shown the Empire one thing: that the members of house Lycanis are presumptuous and unreliable.

It is small wonder that the overblown technology of the Federation produce such faulty results. Montez Lycanis is more than secure in his cell, and there is no possibility of his escape. Be not afraid, citizens of the Empire; the Crimson Wolves continue to be without their leader. By order of Imperator Solas, Marcia Lycanis has been imprisoned in the dungeons of Eden Lycanis, and Ivona Craine has been assigned to oversee the house’s functions for the time being.

This development on the planet Mímir is certainly intriguing. This light appears to be beckoning us, drawing our attention in with signals from far beyond. Perhaps it will lead us to places yet unknown, waiting to be conquered by the Empire’s fleets! Or perhaps the signals are a message; they may at the very least have ancient secrets buried deep within their frequencies.

However, we cannot let the planet Mímir escape the Empire’s grasp, not when it is so close. The Emperor, seated in his sun-glazed throne, casts his eyes toward you, Explorers. Vote with the heart of an Imperial, and you will surely be witnessed.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Haley Nguyen, Union member and Vox representative

Hi there, Comrades- glad to be back. I hear Aish has been taking good care of you while I was gone, and it doesn't seem like she's led you astray. Not allowing the Empire to have their way in the last vote was the right call in my eyes; not like I trust Fed technology to be accurate, but trusting Solas is always a gamble.

I also want to apologize to all of you for my conduct during the situation with Tonocom Defence. The way I acted wasn't deserving of a Union representative; I didn't show the patience and empathy that's required to bring our faction's ideals to fruition. Whatever slights that may have brought on you, or on the Union, I'll do my best to mend them.

Looking at the current vote, my gut tells me that Sera and her crew need all the help they can get, and I'm worried that if we don't act soon, we might lose her and her crew, along with the source of that signal. Of course, that fear might be unfounded, and, well- acting on my gut hasn't been the most reliable as of late. It might be better to hang back, and to trust that Sera and the rest of them will be alright, but somehow I doubt it, Explorers. It feels like the time to be cautious has passed. Whatever your decision ends up being, make sure to speak to your fellow Union members before you make up your mind.

Here's to a brighter tomorrow.
Haley

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Send in the Panopea 2 (Empire,Union) , Scan the signals 1 (Federation)

The final vote is in favor of sending the Panopea into the mass of light. We have sent word to the fleet beyond the Core Systems, and we will soon hear the initial results of the Panopea’s expedition. Aris Glycon of the Empire has been assigned the role of acting captain of the Panopea, and we expect to hear back from the expedition shortly.

Event Horizon

Transmission from Emel Voden
Origin: Victor-3, class-C research vessel
Dating: 21st report – time of Sagittarii ζ 3.32
Designation: [left blank]

This- this is Emel, of Imperial house Voden. I’m sorry, I’ve been assigned to do this and I’m not sure of the procedures, but the rest of the crew is occupied and- the Panopea… right… the Panopea was destroyed. I was right on the bridge when it happened- the instant the ship made contact with the center, it was just... torn apart. I’ve never seen anything like that happen to a class-A. Almost as if something ripped outward from the inside. It shouldn’t have happened like that. It shouldn’t...

We- um, we’ve managed to recover what we could from the wreckage with smaller fighters but some of- most of them are gone. They’re just gone. I don’t know if there’s anything else I’m supposed to say- no one’s given me an exact… count, but- I don’t think anyone’s made one yet either.

Something happened, though, after the- after what happened. With the light. It was like it calmed down, or something like that. I’ve checked the readings – I’ve been checking the readings a lot – and there’s been a significant decrease in the anomaly’s energy levels. Almost like it reacted to the Panopea in some way. With the state it’s in now, even a class-C vessel could make it to the center…

But no one on the fleet will do it. Not after what they’ve seen. No one wants to get any closer to the light right now. I’ve seen the people they took from the wreckage. Light running along their bodies, screaming like they were in unimaginable pain. Quantum fusion, they’re saying. I- I just do the readings on the pyrometer, so I don’t know.

We’re orbiting at around three times our previous distance now. With the decreased energy output, this should keep the rest of the fleet safe. I hear people saying we ought to go in again once the ships from the Council arrive, and my body starts shaking. I hope they don’t send people from the Empire. I hope they don’t send me.

Transmission ends.

From what can be discerned from this scattered report, it would appear the Panopea’s expedition was unsuccessful in reaching the center of the mass of light. Whatever the reason, the light’s volatile nature has apparently been considerably reduced through this action. Though the fate of the Panopea’s crew is tragic, the information we have gained through their efforts is highly valuable; the Council can now send class-B ships to the fleet without much concern. Given the faster readying speed of class-B vessels, it will not be long now before they can be sent beyond the Core Systems, and a complete expedition can venture into the center of the light. Until then, the Universal Council has urged the fleet, formerly of the Panopea, to remain in its current position until its crew can be safely returned to station Ignis.

Chapter 8: Quantum Sickness

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Quantum Sickness

Report from the 24th conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Ferus Haden, Thulani Ade’k
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, Victor Huxley, Elijah Burke
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Mandla Bankole, Haley Nguyen

The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:

… we will continue to observe the situation on Ichthys-β as it develops.

Additionally, the first of the Universal Council’s class-B ships have made contact with the fleet beyond the Core Systems. The stabilization of the light is persisting, and an initial reconnaissance operation into the center has already been deployed. There is a chance we will receive their first report by the conclusion of this very conference. At the very least, we will soon know for certain what lies at the center of the light.

Let us move on to a rising issue within the walls of this very station. Since extracting the surviving members of the Twin Suns mercenaries from the Pinnacle – the Union ship whose malfunctioning Quantum Drive caused the complete evacuation of Kepler-7 – our medical teams have been examining the bodies of the mercenaries- bodies which appear to have somehow become fused with the Quantum they were exposed to.

The initial symptoms, those being delirium and intense muscle spasms, as well as fluctuating body temperature, have not receded through conventional treatment. What’s more, any attempt to dampen the Quantum energy coursing through the patients’ bodies has been met with resistance by the their own cells, almost as if the body is rejecting the removal of Quantum entirely.

Nonetheless, the subjects remain in considerable pain. While there remained hope among our staff that this “Quantum sickness” might pass with time, the recent death of one of the mercenaries has put paid to those hopes. Now, there is reason enough to accelerate procedure. In this case, that involves the use of a highly experimental technology, namely forced cell-division. The procedure is quite complex, but suffice it to say that the process will forcibly divide the Quantum-fused cells from the regular ones.

An operation like this has never been attempted before, and the chances of catastrophic failure are quite high. If the operation is performed, it is estimated that most of the Union mercenaries will not survive.

There is, however, another option: during the preliminary discussion of this issue, Councilor Burke put forward the possible alternative of transferring the Union mercenaries to Struve-214, the planetary office for Borealis Inc. This corporation, itself focused on genetic enhancement, possesses the equipment necessary for several forms of advanced cellular division, and with the word of a Federation president, they could not refuse to offer the Union members treatment.

Councilor Burke has stated explicitly that this offer is extended as a manner of recompense; a way of mending ties between the Federation and Union after the tensions around Morn. However, as this current situation has arisen out of the tumultuous occurrences around Kepler-7, the ultimate decision in this case falls under the jurisdiction of the Universal Council. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Council use the recently developed forced cell-division technology, and attempt to alleviate the patients’ symptoms on station Ignis, or does the Council allow the Union mercenaries to be transported of the station to Struve-214, where they will be placed under the care of Borealis Inc.’s medical staff, a procedure they are much more likely to survive?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Federation Storyline

Transmission from Ana Plíšková, assistant to Victor Huxley, COO of VasTech

Good sol, Explorers. I must congratulate you on your decision on the last vote; it was a brave decision, and one not taken lightly, I’m sure. But, as Mr. Huxley remarked to me the other day: we must first suffer the consequences of progress before we may benefit from it.

It seems that President Burke has taken this sentiment a little too much to heart, however. While it is not my place to condemn the actions of one of our illustrious presidents, there are some within the Federation who believe this attempt to broker some sort of cordial relationship with the Union is not an acceptable path. We cannot trust a lawless faction to uphold agreements, and inviting a mercenary group into the very heart of our systems may be less than wise.

Then again, perhaps this is a risk worth taking. President Burke is a humanist to his bones, Mr. Huxley has assured me, so we can be sure that he is not seeing the bigger picture. If, however, Borealis Inc. were to make a significant discovery due to this experiment, they would be under no obligation to share it with the rest of the factions- it is their equipment after all. These mercenaries’ lives are already at risk, and so the Union would hardly have a right to appeal to the Council if the procedure turned out to be more volatile than was initially expected.

As a last note, Explorers, you need not worry about the Federation’s resources; they are plentiful. The issue in this vote is purely one of principle, and one I am sure you will be able to unravel.

Ana

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

Greetings, Explorers! As with all days, we have only our Emperor – may he outlive the stars – to thank for blessing us with the continued majesty and prosperity of the Empire.

It is very possible you may during the course of the conference have caught wind of the rumours of civil unrest surrounding Ichthys-β. You will all be relieved to know that these are rumours are mere speculation, flights of fancy indulged only by those wishing to blight the Empire’s untarnished reputation. Some citizens have been causing a disturbance, certainly, but they represent a vocal minority, and will be dealt with as such.

Fascinating, is it not, that the Council, with all its farcical talk of unity, would lend credence to such rumours, while tasking Imperial citizens such as yourselves with deciding the fate of Union mercenaries? A system which requires such rabid consensus will never stand the test of time. These mercenaries may live or die- it will change nothing.

No, the lives of these Union wretches are not our concern. The true nature of this vote lies in the sickness itself. Though the other factions may tout their sympathy for this scum, no doubt they too are determining how to play the situation to their advantage. If, perchance, the operation on Borealis goes awry, who knows what may happen between the Federation and the Union? For us, it may be wise to divide first, and conquer later.

All the same, when I dared broach the subject in my communion with His Eminence earlier, Imperator Solas made it clear that the Oracle had imparted upon him the importance of these patients, and spoke, in his gilded tones, of the potential they had to reshape the balance of power in the Core Systems. Leaving this operation to the Federation may lead to a chain of events we cannot undo. These corporate slaves may be misguided, but we would be wise to not underestimate their technological prowess.

There is not much more to say, Imperials. The Oracle’s guidance resonates through our very bones, for we are the subjects of Imperator Solas. Let its songs lead you to what the future holds, and grasp the present moment firmly.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Haley Nguyen, Union member and Vox representative

Good day, Comrades! A tough outcome on that last vote, but I suppose you're used to those by now. For what it's worth, I think you got the best out of a bad situation there- who knows what the anomaly might've done if it was left unchecked. At least now it's stable, and the fleet didn't put their lives on the line for nothing. On a sidenote, I've got some developments to report on the Vox's behalf too: we've finally been able to get some leads on Ojin-Kai operations. They've been avoiding the Vox's eyes for some time now, but the Tonocom Defense situation in particular seems to have put them on the back foot. With a man like Cillian Mercer spearheading the operations, it's only a matter of time before we secure some Ojin-Kai aboard the Bastion.

Speaking of Tonocom, I don't think I have to advise any of you against trusting the Feds in this vote. That being said, it's no secret that our fellow Union members are going to be far worse off with the experimental treatment, so it might still be worth sending them to Borealis, regardless of what we might think of the Federation. And hey, who knows? Some Federation tech might accidentally slide into their pockets while they're there; who are we to put a stop to that? Jokes aside, it might be a blessing in disguise to get some inside intel on a pretty central Corpo conglomerate. I'm still sceptical on the Federation's stance on this; I doubt we can just chalk this up to Elijah being a a softie. Borealis' got to have some reason for agreeing to this beyond "it's the nice thing to do". If they were Corpos in Kim's sector? Maybe. But Elijah's the worst kind of corrupt-the kind that doesn't even know it. Wouldn't surprise me if someone else planted the idea in his head to begin with. Seems like if we don't send the patients to Borealis, we'd be denying the Feds what they want, but losing an advantage ourselves in the process. The question is if that outcome is worth it...

Well, I've given you all the info I can, so I'll leave the decision in your capable hands. Make the Union proud, Explorers.

Here's to a brighter tomorrow.
Haley

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Treat them on Station Ignis 3 (Empire,Federation,Union) , Send them to Borealis Inc. 0 ()

The final vote is in favor of using the resources of the Council to perform the operation on the Union mercenaries. Instructions have been provided to the medical staff on board station Ignis, and we expect the first report from them in short order.

Quantum's Children

The following is a sequence of two transmissions from Jin Lan, head of medical operations for the Universal Council:

Report 1
Location: station Ignis, Core Systems
Dating: preceding the 24th conference - time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: preliminary operation report

This is Jin Lan, reporting on the initial preparation for the cell-division operation on the Twin Suns’ members currently afflicted by Quantum sickness. The patients’ condition continues to worsen, and we fear the Quantum fusing may have already spread to the brain. So far, we’ve determined that the substance is affecting the glands and the nervous system, but to what degree we still don’t know. We expect to determine the degree of affectation throughout the course of this operation.

It is worth noting as well that over the course of our oversight, the staff has noticed certain peculiarities in the patients’ speech. While most of their speech continues to be relatively disconnected, there are words that repeat again and again. The most consistently reappearing of these are “Cradle”, “Travel”, and “Children”. The cause of this correlation hasn’t yet been confirmed, but initial speculation points to some form of psychological link between the patients’ subconscious through Quantum. Perhaps upon the conclusion of this operation these theories can be examined in greater detail. For now, our priority is the survival and safety of these patients.

Report 2
Location: Station Ignis, Core Systems
Dating: preceding the 24th conference - time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: conclusionary operation report

This is Jin Lan, reporting on the results of the cell-division procedure performed on the Twin Suns’ members afflicted by Quantum sickness. The results, unfortunately, were as we feared: all but three of the patients did not survive the procedure. Initial results were promising, but as the operation progressed further into the center of the body we found that in most cases, Quantum had fused with the entire nervous system. If we had only been faster, we might have been able to prevent it spreading so far. Unfortunately, our caution in this operation was necessary, given the volatility of Quantum in its natural state and the experimental nature of the treatment.

The remains of those that passed on will be ferried back to the Union, along with the three surviving members; we’re counting on them to get their comrades home to their families and loved ones. An additional observation regarding the surviving patients: all three of them needed to have Quantum-fused cells removed from their brains. This was the case with every patient, but these three had the least high density of Quantum in the frontal lobe. Though this may be a factor as to why they survived, it may also explain their peculiar behavior since regaining consciousness.

None of the staff can vouch for these mercenaries’ previous demeanors, but they seem distant. They will respond to questions and greetings, but only vaguely, staring off into the distance at something just beyond their field of view. Occasionally, they will cock their head, as if listening and nodding along to a conversation only they can hear.

Of further note is the substance that was extracted from the patients’ bodies. The process of cell-division proved extremely effective in separating out the Quantum from the patients. However, the Quantum that was extracted is a completely different form than anything we have observed before. Where regular Quantum can reform its own molecular structure, this substance seems to do so reflexively, based purely on external input. It almost appears to be… alive, in some way. Whatever the case, we have contained the substance on the station, where it will be analyzed further by the Quantum research team.

This concludes the transmissions.

Chapter 9: Groundswell

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Groundswell

Report from the 25th conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Ferus Haden, Thulani Ade’k
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, Victor Huxley, Elijah Burke
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Mandla Bankole, Haley Nguyen

The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:

…and while the class-B ships that were sent into the light have disappeared, we are currently operating under the assumption that they have suffered the same fate as Mímir. We have seen secondhand what a ship destroyed by the light is like, and that appears to not have happened. For now, the Council’s directive is to simply wait for any change in the light that may result from this operation. There is also the matter of a missing Quantum shipment, which we will know more about once the investigation into the ship’s records has concluded.

Now, let us move toward a matter which involves the entirety of the Core Systems. It would seem the earlier rumors of violence of the Imperial Settlement World Ichthys-β were not unfounded. Several reports of unsanctioned deaths have occurred on the Inner Rim planet during the past few weeks.

Normally, such a matter would not involve the Council; it is a dispute centered within the faction itself, and has little bearing on matters of Core System politics. However, these bouts of aggression seem to be led by one group in particular: The Vulpis Oculi, a recently established underground political movement within the Empire, which aims to put more political power in the hands of Imperial citizens.

Two days ago, a statement from the Vulpis Oculi was issued across all transmission channels. It reads as follows:

“Citizens of the Empire! For too long have your voices been stifled, and your lives cast away to uphold the secrets of the nobility! Hundreds of thousands of our own people were killed by the Crimson Wolves in the Forge Worlds on Kepler, and for what? To apprehend a criminal none of us have even seen? I say to you, and to the Council: let us have our justice! Let the bastard Montez, whose Crimson Wolves are responsible for so many deaths, be displayed for all to see!”

From the message, it appears the Vulpis Oculi’s current revolt will not let up until Montez Lycanis be directly presented to the Imperial Citizens. As it stands, the Empire’s refusal to confirm the presence of Montez Lycanis is currently causing violence and unrest within the faction. This matter is no longer simply the faction’s own issue. The Imperial councilmembers present have, after negotiations, conceded that they would be willing to have the Council send an envoy, along with a small escort, to Montez’s prison on Eden Lycanis. However, they have said that a public display of the prisoner would be compromising their security in a manner both insulting and dangerous to the Empire. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Council order that Montez Lycanis be shown to both the Imperial citizens and the rest of the Core Systems in some form of public display, or does the Council send an envoy to Eden Lycanis and accept the Empire’s offer, allowing the faction to deal with the turmoil on Ichthys-β in its own manner?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Faction Storylines

Federation Storyline

Transmission from Ana Plíšková, assistant to Victor Huxley, COO of VasTech

Good sol, Explorers. You have, may I say, truly outdone yourselves with the results of the previous vote. In fact, I have just today received word from Mr. Huxley that he wishes to thank you in person during the next conference. You may look forward to a transmission from the COO of VasTech soon.

With the disappearance of Mímir, the disrupting signals emanating from the planet have slowly begun to subside. Vargas, as well as our other mining planets, are finally able to communicate more freely with the rest of the Federation.

Since the Valkyrie San’a has begun overseeing operations on these planets, there have been fewer and fewer working incidents, and production has been kept steady. In response to this, I am pleased to report that President Lee has reached out to VasTech and has offered the Corporation a preliminary financial operations agreement for Sector 2.

Now that you have been briefed on the situation within the Federation, I will move on to the current vote. It is generally the Federation’s belief that the Universal Council need not be so involved in the inner workings of faction politics. Certainly, as a faction, we do not want to be seen choosing sides within the Empire. However, now that the opportunity has presented itself, we must not squander it. This is either a chance to affirm our confidence in the current course of the Empire, or to attempt to sow dissent within it. Of course, if we choose the latter, we risk the retaliation of Solas and his forces.

Whether or not Montez Lycanis is in captivity certainly remains a pressing question; though the Crimson Wolves have not been seen for some time, they are still a threat to the integrity of the Federation. However, giving our full trust to another faction should never be the correct course of action. Whatever the outcome of this vote, we should not assume we are being presented with the full truth from anyone’s side.

Ana

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

Greetings once more, you who fly under the skies of the Empire! You are all rightly deserving of your position as Hands of Imperator Solas – may he outlive the stars – as many have taken to calling you. May you embody his will far beyond the grasp of the Empire’s systems.

To have such a rare substance as this organic Quantum matter be discovered aboard station Ignis, as opposed to a Federation research laboratory, is a great boon for the Empire. No doubt the Federation would have dissected the material ad infinitum, only for it to never fulfill its true purpose, one which only the Emperor can divine. Certainly, these Federation technocrats are seething with fury, knowing we have denied them such an important advantage!

I’m sure I need not speak to you on the current vote, however. The very suggestion that the Empire bend to such a minor voice within its borders is an affront to our principles. Stifled, indeed! The voices and wishes of the people of the Empire are channeled through our Emperor, who in turn is guided by the songs of the Oracle. Any who believe otherwise are misguided, or simply delusional.

Though the matter of displaying Montez is of no consequence – he is, after all, more than secure in House Lycanis’ cells – this is a question of principle, not of consequence. Imperator Solas has warned House Lycanis against bringing out Montez, saying it will only cause more turmoil for the Core Systems.

As citizens of the Empire, it is your duty to see these voices quelled, and their priorities set straight. Remember your place, Explorers.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Haley Nguyen, Union member and Vox representative

Hello there, Comrades. I have to say, I’m not sure about last week’s outcome. While it might have been unwise to trust the Federation with our own people, I don’t know if sacrificing lives to uphold our principles is the right way forward for the Union. Certainly, sacrifices need to be made for progress, but this… this isn’t progress, it’s just stagnation.

The vote last week caused some ripples within the Union, that’s for sure. Among others, representatives of the Redeemers and the Gamayun mercenary clans spoke out against the Council’s decision during the Vox assembly. For what it’s worth, Aish and Mandla do seem to agree with your decision, but keep in mind that we have a Union to maintain, and that some bonds are more easily broken than others.

Seems like this vote will be less of a problem among our systems, though. These Vulpis Oculi folk may appear to be in line with the Union’s principles, but take more than a couple seconds to look at their methods and the thin coat of radical socialism gives way to simple pandering populist rhetoric. I doubt anybody in our fold will think harshly if the Council’s decision falls one way or the other.

No, the only one I’d trust to sincerely push Union ideals within the Empire would be Gloria Morell and her “cohorts”. Make no mistake, the Vulpis aren’t the lesser evil here. The actual outcome of the vote itself doesn’t particularly concern me- I’d say having Montez displayed publicly is a bit distasteful, but it doesn’t go further than that. The real question here is: who do we support? The insurgents peddling a new strain of opium to the masses, or the vulture of an Emperor who’s kept his people bound to the same concoction for hundreds of years?

Just remember: don’t make a decision without consulting with your fellow Union members first.

Here’s to a brighter tomorrow.
Haley

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Display Montez publicly 2 (Federation,Union) , Send an envoy to the Empire 1 (Empire)

The final vote is in favor of having house Lycanis display Montez publicly. Word has been sent to the Universal Council contact within the house, Aki Lycanis, who will proceed to make the necessary arrangements.

Eventide

The following are a number of transmissions sent by Aki Lycanis, over the course of the transport operation for Montez Lycanis’s public display.

Transmission from Aki Lycanis, UC contact for house Lycanis
Location: main docking bay of Eden Lycanis, southern aureole
Dating: 1st report – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: operation report

This is Aki, seventh son of house Lycanis, reporting on the progress of the public display of Montez Lyc- of Montez, the prisoner. The soil of an Eden is considered sacred, and as such it is unfitting for a public display to be held there. The prisoner has been dispatched to Canna station, orbiting planet Chysme, a planet currently under house Lycanis’ banner. A transmission framework has already been established on the station, which will enable the image of Montez to be displayed to every faction. The prisoner’s carrier is being accompanied by several military ships of house Lycanis, in case of unforeseen circumstances. Of course, the Empire’s Inner Rim of planets is incredibly secure, and there is almost no need for this type of additional protection.

Transmission from Aki Lycanis, UC contact for house Lycanis
Location: Oris, central city of Eden Lycanis, central aureole
Dating: 2nd report – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: operation report

This is Aki, seventh son of house Lycanis. The carrier ship containing the prisoner was set to arrive at Canna station a while ago. However, Canna had not sent word of the arrival of Montez. After brief correspondence with the station, I established that the vessel carrying the prisoner had not reached the station yet. Proceeding to check the carrier’s signal, I discovered we can no longer trace the ship. A patrol of class-D scout ships has been sent out to the ship’s last registered location.

Transmission from Aki Lycanis, UC contact for house Lycanis
Location: 4th wing of communications for Eden Lycanis, western aureole
Dating: 3rd report – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: operation report

We have discovered the carrier ship, along with its escorts. Every ship is fully intact, but… Its Drive is dead- even the backup power source has been disabled. Furthermore, there are not even any signs of a struggle; none of the crew are injured, they are simply unconscious, and the airlocks show no signs of having been opened.

There is only one immediate difference between the carrier ship as it is now and when it left the station. Our scout ship’s crew checked the cell room, and it is empty. Montez, the prisoner, is gone. There is no sign of his restraints being broken, they are simply… undone. The crew assures me that only someone with acute knowledge of the Empire’s technology could have done this.

Currently, the ships are being transported back to Eden Lycanis. It is possible the ship’s logs may be able to be recovered, or that whoever – or whatever – did this has left some sort of trace, but this seems highly unlikely.

End of transmissions

It would seem Montez Lycanis has escaped. First instinct would lead the Council to suspect the Crimson Wolves of the attack, but this method seems to suggest otherwise. It is true the Crimson Wolves have not been seen for some time, but for them to reappear in Empire space now – and the Inner Rim, at that – after they were driven towards Federation and Union space, would be a strange turn of events. Furthermore, if the Crimson Wolves were to free their leader, they would presumably not have done it with such little fanfare.

No, it seems another force is at work in this instance, a force which perhaps the Universal Council is unfamiliar with. The disappearance of Montez, however, appears to have somewhat softened the actions of the Vulpis Oculi on Ichthys-β. The direct consequences of this matter appear to have been averted, and as such, the Council need not involve itself. But we must remain wary; with a force like Montez unaccounted for, it is only a matter of time before the Council is called to action once again.

Chapter 10: Subjugation

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Subjugation

Report from the 26th conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Ferus Haden, Thulani Ade’k
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, Victor Huxley, Elijah Burkea
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Mandla Bankole, Haley Nguyen

The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:

… investigation from the Empire has so far yielded no results as to the whereabouts of Montez. The assailants were incredibly careful to leave no solid traces behind. Currently the prevailing theory is that there was in fact no outside help- that Montez’s escape was solely his own doing. Conversely, the missing Quantum shipment bound for the Core Systems is also still unaccounted for. The Council will be informed of any leads in either matter as soon as they arise.

Now, let us turn to the relevant vote. Many of the gathered councilmembers may already be aware of this, but two days ago, the Council received a transmission relating to the Anomaly – the name our researchers have given to the mass of light that swallowed Mímir. The report, however, was riddled with static and almost impossible to decipher.

Given the issues with these direct transmissions, scientists on station Ignis attempted to observe the light from a distance, uncovering a perturbing development. The Anomaly, previously tinted in light hues across the visible spectrum, has begun pulsating and widening itself, vivid colors streaking across its expanding boundaries. The assembled fleets are already retreating, but the factoring in the Anomaly’s current alarming rate of growth, it seems only a matter of time before it envelops the fleet entirely. Of course, there is the possibility that this expansion is only temporary, but we have no way of confirming this within such a short span of time.

There does appear to be another option; one fragment of the fleets’ transmission mentions a method of stifling the Anomaly’s growth. Unfortunately, the specifics of this method were lost in the static, but with multiple fleets of research ships currently reinforcing the original small fleet, including several of the Council’s class-S vessels, it is possible the fleets actually possess the equipment necessary to halt the Anomaly’s progress. Of course, any significant technical operation would require power to be siphoned from the ship’s engines, leaving a large amount of them at the mercy of the Anomaly’s expansion.

The Council has considered many alternatives to these solutions, mainly the possibility of sending another single ship into the light to calm the turbulence, similar to the incident with the Panopea. Though ultimately, such methods hinge too heavily on clarity of communication with the fleet, or require more time than we have in this situation.

The effects of this development have been felt all across the Core Systems, but particularly within the Federation. Communications from the Nexus are breaking down, and may planets within the faction have been thrust into darkness. Taking this into account, it is highly unlikely the Council’s comms will reach the fleet unaltered. Our transmission must be short and immediate, able to be sent to the assembled fleets as often as possible to avoid any part of it being lost. Thus, the vote placed before Council is as follows:

Should the Council place their confidence in the fleets beyond the Core Systems, allowing them a chance to stop the Anomaly’s advance? Or does the Council instruct its ships to continue their retreat, trusting that the speed of the Anomaly’s growth will slow down before it reaches them?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Faction Storylines

Federation Storyline

Transmission from Victor Huxley, COO of VasTech

Good sol, Explorers! Unfortunately, that little stunt from some rogue faction made last week’s vote a bit of a failure. I still firmly believe it was the work of some outside force; this Imperial outcast styling himself a pirate may be resourceful, but to take out an entire entourage of Imperial escort ships, and leave no men wounded? I don’t think so.

All the same, now we can be certain of one thing: this vicious pirate is once again free to roam the skies as he pleases. In these trying times, it is the duty of every Federation citizen to hold their head up high, and steel themselves for the hardships to come.

Of course, I don’t mean to place any blame on you Explorers for his escape- I would have done much the same in your situation. Defy the despot, and give the people a voice! You proved yourselves true paragons of Federation virtues there, as you did with your collaborative decision to treat the patients on station Ignis. Of course, it is certainly a shame that our faction has not retained exclusive rights to such a discovery, but these are the sacrifices we must make for standing behind our principles.

Sadly, from what we are hearing on board the station, it seems every sector of the Federation is now suffering from this communication fallout. Of course, with VasTech’s proven track record of dealing effectively with these situations, we have been asked to dispatch several Valkyrie Units to the more severely affected planets, and are working with the corporations involved to ensure the living environment for their employees is not impacted in any way.

But let us return to the vote at hand. Oh, to be given a chance to participate in such a monumental galactic occasion! You should count yourselves lucky. Certainly, if I were in your shoes, I would prioritize experimentation over safety- nothing was ever gained from shying away from risk, after all. But I can, of course, see the merits of attempting to outrun the Anomaly as well. Lest it not catch up to our ships, their respective crews would be in a much more fit state to continue their duties. Going from Kepler-7 to yet another life-threatening situation has no doubt left them exhausted.

Well, I’d wager that’s more than enough from me; I’m sure you have more than enough to discuss among yourselves. I’m grateful to have the honor of addressing you once again, and remember: VasTech stands with you, in all your endeavors.

Best,
Victor

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

At last, a sign of providence has arrived! A raging storm that portents great things. Whatever may befall our ships in this ordeal, it is clear this step is a colossal stride forward on the path of the Empire’s destiny!

I greet you, Explorers, on a day that has brightened up the Empire’s dark skies. For with the disappearance of Montez, there is still reason to grieve. I understand you did what you could, Explorers, but the stubbornness of the lesser factions will never cease to astound.

In particular, my heart – and I am sure yours as well – goes out to Ivona Craine, present as she was on Eden Lycanis, hoping certainly at last for this miserable cretin to be put to justice. But no, the snake has slipped between our fingers once more. Rest easy though Imperials, for I have word that the beauteous Gloria Morell is keeping order within house Lycanis’ Eden, even as its members may worry about this terrible development.

Yes, certainly the bastard Montez will soon belong to the Empire once more. Such are the words of Imperator Solas – may he outlive the stars – and their truth resounds across the open expanse of the galaxy.

So let us move on to this Anomaly, this flood of light that threatens to wash over our ships. Do not fear it! Let its glory envelop them, let their cries of elation be transcendent! Thought it is not the time for us to place our faith in the machinations of scientists, standing our ground and facing the Anomaly head on may well be the correct path. It may also be that the Anomaly wishes to show us something, pushing our ships away deliberately so that we may discover a new secret.

The choice is yours, Explorers, but know that, in the words of Imperator Solas, your current journey is almost at its end.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Haley Nguyen, Union member and Vox representative

Hello, Comrades. Good job on that vote during the last conference; close votes like this are exactly what keeps my conviction in the Union strong, and remind me that every person’s voice always matters.

You know, if I had to guess, I’d say Montez was never even on that ship- seems to me like an easy way for the Empire to cover up their lies. The fact that the Vulpis Oculi have taken this in their stride (for now, at least) seems to confirm what I suggested in my last transmission as well: they’re not in it for change, they’re just looking to stoke the flames of rebellion for their own gain.

Before I move on to the vote, I thought some of you might appreciate a bit of information about the citizens of Morn. I was on the Bastion just before heading to Ignis, and they’re being well taken care of. The Bastion is more than capable of housing multiple planet’s worth of people, so there’ve been no accommodation issues as of yet. It’s actually quite nice to see the Bastion so filled with life; it can often feel quite empty, large as it is.

Oh, and you might also be interested to know that the citizens have been joined on board by a few members of the Ojin-Kai. The efficiency with which Mercer is rounding up these folks is downright astonishing, I’ve got to say.

Now, in contrast to last week’s vote, this one’s definitely going to turn some heads. I don’t expect the Vox assembly to be a quiet one, no matter which way this ends up panning out. As for my thoughts on it, we have such limited information it’s hard to make a call. I would at least caution against putting all your faith in the fleets being able to stop the Anomaly; while the Council’s tech can be pretty impressive at times, it’s not always reliable.

I know you’re worried- some of you might have friends, loved ones on those ships. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your fellow Union members for support and advice. You can rely on each other for that. That’s how we get through this; that’s how the Union gets through this. Sometimes, these catastrophes are inevitable. But pretending that it’s some form of ‘celestial providence’ like I heard Ji bandying about is just going to get more people killed.

Here’s to a brighter tomorrow, for all of us.
Haley

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Stop the Anomaly’s advance 3 (Empire,Federation,Union) , Flee from the Anomaly 0 ()

The final vote is in favor of instructing the fleets to stop the Anomaly’s advance. The continuous transmission to the fleets from station Ignis commenced several minutes ago. We still have no guarantee that the message will even reach our ships; in the event the Council does receive a response, this will be relayed directly to all members of the Explorer program.

Emergence

Transmission from Soren Lynk
Origin: the Obelisk, 3rd class-S frigate of the Universal Council
Dating: 26th report – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: operation report

Hello? Hello, is anyone hearing this? This is Soren Lynk, comms officer for the Obelisk. Seems like the signal interference from the Anomaly is thinning out, so I hope this is getting through. Our other class-S ships just sent word that the Anomaly is retreating, though one of them – Finch’s Spear – was struck by one of the tendrils coming off the Anomaly; I did not see it firsthand, but the crew aboard the surrounding ships said it was as if the hull was ripped out of space, completely evaporated into nothing.

I am on the Obelisk’s main observation deck at the moment and have a clear visual on the light as it’s pulling away. It looks… almost like it is being sucked back in towards its point of origin. No report yet if the Quantum resonance experiment was the cause of this, but given the incident coincided so directly with the combined efforts of our class-S ships it seems very likely.

Whatever the cause of this phenomenon, it is certainly stunning. The rest of our ships are continuing their retreat, and the command has been given for the class-S ships to rejoin the fleet for now. Since we don’t know exactly what the outcome of this new development will – hold on. I’m seeing something from the bridge window here, trying to get a closer look on the monitors. There, and… yes, I have it up. It looks like the Anomaly is… solidifying. By the stars, it has certainly shrunk quite a lot! All the colors are running together, and the light it’s – it’s taking on a new shape, something like a large sphere. Hold on a moment, excuse me.

(faintly) Jane, can I get confirmation on this from the other fleets? And Jensen, switch our radio emitters to shortwave. If this is what I think it is, we’re going to need them soon.

Yes, hello again. Apologies, some of the crew have gathered on the bridge, so it is slightly harder to make out, but the light is – yes, it’s fading now, threading around the edges of this object, and collapsing in the center. Ah, and now it is is completely gone – my word. There’s no mistaking this, for certain, even from this distance. Yes, I have just received confirmation from one of the technicians. The clouded atmosphere may be gone, as well as the mysterious disrupting signal, but… it is the same planet. Mímir has returned.

Jensen, tune the emitters to local, please. I’ll let the fleet know we’re turning back around.

Transmission ends.

Chapter 11: The Cradle

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The Cradle

Report from the 27th conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Ferus Haden, Cael’an Ashuret
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, Kim Lee, Elijah Burke
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Mandla Bankole, Haley Nguyen

The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:

As was stated in Soren Lynk’s transmission following the conclusion of the last vote, the planet Mímir has returned, after being lost to us since the 23rd conference of this dating. Initial surface analysis showed absolutely no change in the composition of the planet; its crust has aged by the roughly the same amount of time that it was gone for. The only perceivable changes were the complete absence of the signal that led our ships to Mímir in the first place, and the disappearance of turbulent storm clouds covering the surface.

However, the Council’s fleets did pick up another, separate signal: a distress beacon, belonging to Captain Nicolás Kestrel. Our ships ventured onto the planet’s surface, bringing the full force of our fleets to bear on Mímir. While the tunnel networks of the planet were labyrinthine, our operation managed to successfully follow the signal to its source. The following is the last transmission the Council received:

Transmission from Soren Lynk
Location: surface of Mímir, cave network
Dating: 4th report – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: mission report

This is Soren Lynk. We have just passed the last leg on our path to the signal, and it seems the caves are opening up- (scuffling) hold on, why’ve we stopped? Ayun, man, what’s the matter with- good lord. There is something huge in these caves. I repeat, a massive object has been found in Mímir’s caves. Organic or not, it seems to be emitting some strange pulse, and- there’s people here.

(faint orders barked, echoing off cave walls)

They look like- yes, that’s them. It’s the original crew from the Panopea’s fleet. Still breathing, that’s good. Get Captain Kestrel on your shoulders. (thudding) And Commander Varse can go… here I think. My lord, what’s happened to them? They look… drained. And this? That’s her mission log. Still functional, that’s good.

(click)

Listen, our operation is currently preparing to bring the crew up to the surface as soon as we can. The nearest class-S ship will update the Council further on the situation.

Transmission ends.

The Cradle: Part 2

Following this, Captain Kestrel, Commander Varse, and the rest of the surviving crew were ferried beyond the caves. Commander Varse’s logs (which are currently being indexed, to be released publicly later) indicate that this object the expedition found is a fourth artifact similar in nature to the Bastion, the Nexus and the Oracle, but far smaller than any of them. Small enough, Commander Varse’s logs suggest, to be transported out of Mímir’s cave system.

The exact nature or function of the artifact is unclear, but it most likely has something to do with Mímir’s sudden reappearance. Early scans of the caves indicate signs of a recent massive Quantum surge.

Another fact worth noting is that the Arbiter, the class-B vessel sent into the light and captained by Kal Haden, is now nowhere to be found. It was assumed the ship had made contact with Mímir, but this does not appear to have been the case.

With the Crimson Wolves at large and the recent attacks on Quantum shipments, it would be better to have as many fleets as possible on standby at station Ignis. However, this new artifact cannot be left unguarded. If the Council’s fleets are to be kept on standby, this would require an arduous transport of the artifact back to the station, which would be placing the station itself, as well as the rest of the Core Systems, at great risk.

The other option is to leave the artifact where it is and use the Quantum deposits on Mímir to facilitate initial experimentation with its function. Unfortunately, this would leave the artifact quite vulnerable; so far from the Core Systems, it is quite an appealing target, not only for mercenary groups, but also for other factions. We do not want a repeat of the later years of the Quantum war. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Council ship the artifact back to station Ignis, incurring risk to both the Council and its surrounding systems, or does the Council leave the artifact where it is, prepare it for further research and perhaps even for use, and take precautions for any forces that might threaten our possession of the artifact?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Federation Storyline

Transmission from Ana Plíšková, assistant to Victor Huxley, COO of VasTech

Good sol, Explorers. I understand Mr. Huxley was incredibly delighted to have another opportunity to communicate with all of you. I do not blame him; the Explorer program continues to impress. As I sit at my desk, I can swipe through hundreds of transmissions from every sector of Federation space, thanking you for your part in removing Mímir’s disrupting signal and restoring Nexus communications. You ought to be proud of yourselves.

Mr. Huxley is unfortunately not here to speak to you in person; he has relinquished his duties on the Council for the time being, as VasTech’s presence is sorely needed to help those planets affected by the Anomaly rebuild their communication networks.

And of course, with this new development of Mímir’s return comes an entirely new issue: the matter of the fourth artifact. Doubtless it needs to be contained and researched, but how? The Federation’s councilmembers remain convinced the artifact is dangerous. This would lead us to heavily consider leaving the artifact on Mímir.

However, another factor must also be considered. There is talk among the Council of holding a vote to decide where the artifact will be kept. If this ends up going through, it could change matters. The Federation’s technology would be more than enough to contain the dangers of a smaller artifact, if we were to receive it. On the other hand, allowing the Empire or the Union to obtain the artifact might be even more useful. Without our advancements to guide them, they may well cause a larger catastrophe localized entirely to their own systems. Transporting the artifact back to station Ignis would certainly give us more flexibility.

Whichever way the vote falls, we will need to be on our guard. Good luck, Explorers. Make the Federation proud.
Ana

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

What has the Oracle sung time and time again? That the Empire’s destiny lies beyond the Core Systems. And now you see it plain and simple, Explorers: a fourth artifact! The destiny of the Empire manifested into single, glorious form! Let the Vulpis Oculi preach of their futile revolt, let the Union and the Federation have their fragile ideals. All loyal citizens of the Empire know that the only truth is the one put forward by Imperator Solas – may he outlive the stars!

Yes, we are fortunate enough to have the liberty of choice in this instance; not so as to determine the Empire’s will, but to weave our strings tightly and carefully around the other factions. We have the opportunity to stack the deck in our favor here, Explorers, and we must not waste it. The safety, and security of this artifact must, of course, be the Empire’s top priority in these trying times.

Certainly, leaving the fourth artifact exposed in open space means it is less secure, and well… it would certainly be a tragedy if the artifact were to suddenly vanish under these circumstances. Of course, the Council’s fleets will be more wary of anything out of the ordinary in this case. On the other hand, station Ignis, though a secure location, may hold the danger of lulling the Core Systems into a false sense of security. After all, no faction would dare remove an artifact from the Council’s base of operations. No, certainly not.

The vote falls to you now. A new dawn has broken for the Empire, Explorers; it is time for us to seize this day.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Haley Nguyen, Union member and Vox representative

Hi there, Comrades. It’s crazy over here- Ignis has been just one whirlwind of activity since Mímir returned. I haven’t had time to rest, let alone time to sleep. Do-drops are the only thing keeping me going at the moment; Vinya’s been kind enough to lend me some of theirs.

I don’t doubt you all saw in the conference briefing that we have some excellent news: looks like most of the original team is alive! No doubt thanks to all of your efforts as well as theirs, I’m sure. It’ll be good to have Sera on active duty again once she recovers. I just don’t know what she’ll do when she finds out about Casper. As some of you might know, he was among the mercenaries we performed the cell-division experiment on, and well… he didn’t make it. At least Sera’s safe now, but... it’s going to be hard for her, I’m sure.

By the stars, I’m having a hard time keeping my head in it today. Okay. So this fourth artifact definitely looks like it’s going to be dangerous- damn near wiped out an entire Council fleet by itself, for god’s sake… and we’re considering bringing that in? I don’t like it. Then again, leaving the artifact in open space also worries me. No doubt Solas can’t wait to get his bloodstained hands on a second artifact, in whatever way he can.

I worry about the future of the Core Systems, Explorers, I really do. But I trust in us – in you – to make the right decision here.

Here’s to a brighter tomorrow.
Haley

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: The Artifact stays on Mímir 3 (Empire,Federation,Union) , Bring the Artifact to Ignis 0 ()

The final vote is in favor of keeping the new artifact on Mímir. Word has been sent to the Council’s fleets that a significant number of them are to return to station Ignis. Sera, Nicolás, and their crew are on board the Obelisk, to be ferried back to the Core Systems. We expect word from the flagship soon on the progression of their voyage.

Chrysalis

Transmission from Florence O’Connor, 2nd comms officer for the Obelisk
Location: ten days off from station Ignis, moving toward Federation space
Dating: 3rd report - time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: travel report

Florence O’Connor here, 2nd comms officer for the Obelisk. Soren’s taking a break to move around the ship, talk to a couple of the survivors, maybe get a sense of what exactly happened down on Mímir. Seems like they’re not sure either though; we might just have to wait until they’re fully compos mentis.

One thing our fleets have been able to do is decode some more fragments of Commander Varse’s mission logs. Seems like she came up with a name for the artifact: “the Cradle,” she calls it. Though ‘came up’ might not be exactly accurate – anyway, you’ll hear it soon enough. I’ve included what logs we’ve got with this transmission.

Other than that, ship thermals are normal, engine stability is rising but regular, outer casing’s still in middling condition from Anomaly damage. We’re still monitoring all Quantum Drives in the fleet, but there’s been nothing abnormal yet. Few blips on the radar – asteroids most likely – but they vanished pretty quick too. Here’s hoping the whole journey’s this smooth.

Log #152

…god, my head. Last thing I remember… I have no idea, actually. Great. That’s not worrying at all. It wasn’t this dark when we got here, that’s for damn sure – there was that tunnel up to the surface. Must be night on Mímir then. If we’re even still on Mímir, that is. I can… vaguely make out shapes. My crew. Kate. The Cradle. Nicolás. Why’s he here, wasn’t he – urgh, fuck. Can’t think straight. Some of them are moving. My sides feel like someone took a soldering iron to them. Don’t look, Sera just… don’t look.

Log #159

Still no real movement from anyone. Glow around the wound on my stomach looks like Quantum, but I can’t be sure in this light. I think the worst part about this is that damn tunnel. Not like we would have ever found it, but it just leads straight up. Right to the surface. (sobbing) I’m sorry, Casper. I’m so sorry.

Log #174

(static)…strange to be this alone. Though, not exactly alone, I suppose. Still, feels like the world’s died. Maybe it has. Kate woke up a while ago, crawled up to me, said something – I couldn’t make it out. She passed out soon enough, head on my lap. They all look… really tired. So do I, probably. At least the tunnel gets me a good view of the stars. Can’t complain about that, I suppose. When was the last time I took a moment to stargaze? Ages ago, probably back on Arnum. Don’t remember the nights on Mímir being this long though…

Hold on. (fabric rustling) Kate, sorry about this. I know you love your old-school notes, but (tearing) there we go. We’d already started charting the constellations here, so… (scribbling) No… (more scribbling). But that doesn’t make any sense! Unless… (deep humming, soft whispers) did… did you bring us here?

Transmission ends.

Interlude

---

Several weeks ago...

Kal Haden leaned back in the most comfortable chair on the Arbiter and watched as the lights of the Anomaly grew steadily closer. Colors of every imaginable hue played across the deep-set grooves in his face, which remained defiantly calm. At this distance, the scale of the Anomaly was breathtaking – an impenetrable tunnel of light. He likened it to his first time flying close to a star; nothing but a pressure pane separating him and instant death. Of course, Kal did not fear death.

He flicked some dust off his uniform and looked down at his crew. The orders from the Council had come in a few hours ago – one ship, class-B, was to travel into the center of the light. Kal saw in the eyes of these soldiers that same fear he lacked: fear of what this journey might bring. They were leaving the safety of the Council’s fleets behind. Even if they did manage to find Mímir, what then? Kal sniffed. Nothing was more suffocating than humanity’s fear of the unknown, and the air on the deck of the Arbiter was thick with it.

As a Haden, he was intimately familiar with death. From the moment his father had held his head underwater until he could no longer breathe, Kal had walked alongside death, and observed the path it traveled. Such was the way of house Haden; when death’s pace quickened, you matched it. You could not outrun death, but that did not mean you could not keep up.

However, for the past three agonizing years, Kal had felt neither the need to run, nor the need to keep up the pace. His finger twitched on the console, yearning for the heft of a rifle, for the thrill of combat. He was old now – perhaps too old. For too long now he had walked alone, kept from death by the Council and their promises of “peace”. At a certain age, a soldier has only one more good fight left in him. The Council had known to save Kal for that fight, to preserve his instincts for when they needed them most.

“Sir, permission to engage?” the shrill voice of a lieutenant on the deck below broke his concentration, and Kal sighed.

“Engage.” He spoke the word dismissively, returning his gaze once more to the magnificent cauldron of light before him. A shockwave ran through the cold steel of the Arbiter’s frame as its Quantum Drive kicked into action, sending the ship hurtling directly into the heart of the Anomaly. Kal watched the thick tendrils of solid light wrap themselves around the ship’s hull. He sat back, and braced himself…

It’s said that no human can truly see past their own limits; that if we were, for a moment, to understand even a fraction of the true complexity of our universe, our minds would be shattered into a thousand fragments and blasted into dust.

It was in this moment, in a rush of brilliant and violent light, that Kal Haden experienced just that. He watched as the Arbiter folded in on itself, its deck convulsing, and in an instant understood the illusions of space and time as just that – illusions. Kal’s mind fought against the thought, but he could already feel the strands of his consciousness being pulled apart, threatening to tear completely in their attempts to grasp the impossible. And then…

For a moment, his vision became clear, and he saw in the ribbons of light a face; the face of a friend, a face he had known his entire life. “At last,” he grinned, baring teeth like thick, heavy headstones. “Go on then, you bastard. Keep running. I’ll catch up soon.” With that, Kal’s head whipped back, a loud scream tearing itself from his mouth as he pulled his mind back from the brink of expulsion.

Somewhere, out in the depths of space...

There was a hollow silence on the Arbiter. The light had gone. The thrum of the engines had stopped.

“Permission to speak, sir?”

Kal opened his eyes to a field of stars. A wiry lieutenant stood bent at his side, the lad’s freckled face contorting itself in faint concern. “How long was I out, lieutenant?” Kal breathed.

“Not more than an hour, sir.”

Kal sat up straight and waved for the lieutenant to keep his distance. “Good… good. Permission granted.”

“We made it through the Anomaly, sir, but… we can’t find Mímir on our scanners.” The lieutenant spoke nervously, rubbing his hands together before continuing: “In fact, we can’t find anything – no nearby constellations or planets our systems recognize at all.”

“Unfortunate.” Kal was surprised at his matter-of-factness on this matter, but he did not let it show. “What do you suggest we do, lieutenant?”

He fixed the man with a piercing stare, which the younger man failed to meet. “That’s not the last of it, sir. I think – I think you should see this for yourself, sir.”

“Very well.” Kal raised himself and allowed the lieutenant to guide him to the navigation console, dimly aware of the crew’s eyes following them, and the eerie silence that swallowed his footsteps. He stared at the screen. A young-looking soldier was operating the console. Her eyes, a deep serpentine green, reflected the broad disk of stars covering the display. “What am I looking at, officer?”

She turned to face him. “Our system sweep’s getting hits, captain, but they’re nowhere close to our current location. And this one-” she gestured at a particular cluster on the monitor. “The system data’s old, sir. Very old. And if we look a bit closer...” she moved her fingers, and the stars blurred across the screen, magnifying until only a single planet was visible.

There was a collective gasp from the assembled crew. Kal raised an eyebrow. He had only ever seen the planet pictured in simulations, holographic mock-ups, virtual approximations, the like. But even then, he recognized it immediately. Any human would.

“How is that possible?”

“It’s the distance, sir. Currently, we’re more than a hundred thousand light years away, so… that’s what we’re seeing, sir. A hundred thousand years – or more – into the past.”

Kal Haden looked once again at the console, at the slowly rotating planet, its oceans startingly blue, its land a vibrant, inviting green. The Earth hung in the air, spinning like a jewel halfway to the floor.

“But if we’re that far away, then…”

The freckled lieutenant stood back, waiting until he was sure he could speak. Even when he did, his voice remained wavering, uncertain.

“Yes sir – we believe we may be in another galaxy.”

Chapter 12: First Steps

---

First Steps

Report from the 28th conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Ferus Haden, Moira Craine
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, Kim Lee, Elijah Burke
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Artúr Zelenka, Haley Nguyen

…while Kestrel has been co-operative, the vice-captain seems to have very little recollection of what transpired on Mímir. Sera Varse has not been as forthcoming, and seems reluctant to speak about her experiences on the planet. In light of the events which will be discussed presently, the Universal Council has instructed the Obelisk to place the reclaimed crew under stricter supervision until they return to Ignis.

Now, let this conference move on to the matter at hand. Four days ago, two Twin Suns mercenaries were apprehended while crossing into Empire space. Ordinarily, this would not be a matter of the Council’s concern – provided there is a justifiable reason for it, travel between the factions is neither prohibited, nor discouraged. The complication lies in these mercenaries’ identities: their names are Iza and Esau, the same two Twin Suns mercenaries who survived the forced cell-division treatment during this council’s 24th conference.

According to accounts from other Union members, both Iza and Esau have been acting strangely since their return to the Twin Suns fleet. As with most Union mercenaries, the two have no direct family, but have still neglected those that previously considered them close friends. Instead, both have preferred to spend their time in each other’s company, despite previously being no more than casual acquaintances.

Twin Suns’ records show that the ship the two used to cross into Empire space was deployed several days earlier from the Chitin’s Edge, the mercenary clan’s flagship. After returning Iza and Esau to the fleet, the Twin Suns questioned the pair about the reasons for their departure, for which they gave no answers, expressing only a desire to leave for the Empire as soon as possible. When asked to explain their reasons, both Iza and Esau reportedly remained silent.

Multiple Union councilmembers have expressed the Vox’s concerns regarding the Empire’s possible involvement in this ordeal. For their part, the Imperial councilmembers have denied any such involvement, but this does not appear to have assuaged the other faction’s concerns. Since this is now an inter-faction issue, the Universal Council is obliged to address the situation.

From what the Twin Suns have relayed to the Council, both Iza and Esau have tried to leave Chitin’s Edge multiple times since their return. The mercenary clan wishes to get to the bottom of the matter and has suggested transferring both mercenaries to a detainment facility in Font, a highly advanced metropolis on Gaea, a central planet in the Union’s systems.

However, many Union councilmembers, as well as those from other factions, find this course of action to be unacceptable; for them, it falls too close to human experimentation and unwilling detainment, core tenets which the Union strives against, especially since Iza and Esau are no direct threat to anyone. Many councilmembers have suggested that the pair’s wishes be honored, and to have them be received within the Empire as visitors, for however long they choose to stay. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Council order for the detainment of the mercenaries on Gaea, potentially allowing further observation of their behavior, or does the Council order the Twin Suns to allow the mercenaries to leave the Union under escort, so they can enter Imperial space without restrictions?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Faction Storylines

Federation Storyline

Transmission from Ana Plíšková, assistant to Victor Huxley, COO of VasTech

Good sol, Explorers. I write this with a somewhat heavy heart, as today is the last day I will be serving as your faction contact. Mr. Huxley and VasTech require my assistance in their expansions into other sectors within the Federation, so I will be leaving station Ignis after this conference is concluded.

My absence will be made up for by the Valkyrie San’a, who is returning to active duty as a councilmember and faction contact following her peerless efforts on Vargas and our other mining planets. We are expecting operations and communications on these planets to resume very soon, now that the Cradle’s signal has been silenced.

When discussing the current vote, I have heard many of my colleagues whisper of collusion between the two factions involved – I do not, however, view these concerns to be well-founded, and would advise you to regard the facts of the matter as they stand.

The rights of individuals are certainly important, and the Federation holds individual freedom as one of its core virtues. On the other hand, as President Adonis remarked so poignantly during the conference, is that freedom not something one must earn? To become a member of a Union clan is not a mandate – it is a choice. Surely, actively contributing to things such as drug trade, a practice which affects lives in every faction, should call into question that individual’s right to their own freedom? That is after all why the Federation’s robust justice systems exist: to put a stop to those who would seek to inhibit the freedom of others.

Though of course, my recent experience of detainment during the murder of Julius Lycanis makes me slightly more sympathetic to the case of these mercenaries. It was only the knowledge of my own innocence that carried me through that experience; I can’t imagine the anguish it would inflict on two people so clearly in some state of mental deficiency.

As always, the choice is yours, Explorers. And may I say: It has been an honor serving as your contact for these past few conferences – I hope to one day have the opportunity to do so again.

Ana

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

Explorers, it is once again a magnificent day within the Empire! Take this chance to thank our Emperor – may he outlive the stars – for his providence and generosity in giving both shelter and comfort to us, and all others who are deserving of it.

For certain, it is a good thing that you voted to keep the Cradle in its place. We can rest assured that there will be no danger to the rest of the Core Systems, and that no faction would be… bold enough to make any attempt towards jeopardizing this situation. Yes, it’s safe to say that the new artifact is now in a perfect position, as far as the Empire is concerned.

Now, let us move to a discussion of this intriguing set of circumstances: an impromptu defection of two dedicated Union mercenaries. The Empire, of course, is no stranger to welcoming new citizens; after all, who would not wish to fly under our banner?

Having spoken thus, however, concern must be raised as to whether we should invite this Union scum into our systems. Do we owe these mercenaries anything? Have they made any promises to pledge themselves to the Empire fully, and with their entire being? I should think not.

What I would urge you to consider, however, is the information they might offer us. Any insights they may provide when… prompted, could certainly be an asset to our Mendacian division. It is of no concern of ours whether these miscreants are to rot in a Union slumheap, but if they wish to better themselves and join the Empire, perhaps we should let them.

May you be graced with the wisdom of Solas, Imperials.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Haley Nguyen, Union member and Vox representative

Good day, Comrades. Tensions on Ignis have definitely increased since the last conference; I think having the Cradle be so exposed is probably most of what’s putting people on edge – I could swear Moira’s voice is shriller than it usually is. Despite that, so far nothing’s happened, so it seems like you made the right call last week, Explorers.

Rounding up of the Ojin-Kai sects is coming along well, too. I’ve never seen Mercer so ecstatic – it’s honestly a little off-putting. But we’re bringing some much-needed peace and relief to Union planets on the outer systems, and that’s wonderful to see. Detainment is a little bit of a sensitive topic at the moment though, with the vote being the way it is.

Obviously, people leaving the Union happens, but I’ve never seen something like this. I was approached by some Union members on the station that knew Iza; they told me she was always cheerful, always bright. I showed them some of the footage the Council gave us, and they almost didn’t recognize her.

Apparently, her birth parents were killed in a messy skirmish with the Empire when she was a kid. There’s no clear reason for why her demeanor changed like this. I just wish they’d both speak, so we’d know a bit more, but it’s not like we can… force our own people into something they don’t want to do. I’ve been to Font many times though – spent most of my early days as a Celestial there – and I can vouch for the procedures there being safe and effective. Iza and Esau will be well taken care of if we send them over.

I just want you all to remember to vote with your heart, and not your head. If we start treating our people like numbers, we’ll be no better than the Federation. Good luck, Explorers.

Here’s to a brighter tomorrow.
Haley

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Detain the mercenaries on Gaea 3 (Empire,Federation,Union) , Escort the mercenaries to the Empire 0 ()

The final vote is in favor of detaining the Union mercenaries on Gaea. A ship from Chitin’s Edge will be safely transporting Iza and Esau to Font, where they will be transferred to the Gamayun labs, under care of Hunter Yin and his team. An Initial report from the team is expected soon after the mercenaries’ arrival.

Quantum's Cell

Transmission from Hunter Yin, Clasped Fist of the Gamayun
Location: the best damn lab in the galaxy
Dating: 3 days since my last shower
Designation: eat it.

(faint, bass-heavy music thuds in the background)

Hello there, Universal Council! How do you do, and all that. It’s my first time chatting with you highly esteemed councilors so directly. So tell me, how exactly does it feel to be the only thing standing between the Core Systems and total, unmitigated democracy? I bet you all sleep excellently.

We got your “shipment”, by the way. I’m curious, was it the Feds’ idea to handcuff them? Well, you’ve no need to worry – the Union takes care of its own, no matter what your fucked-up little experiments on Ignis might have done to them. We’ve placed Iza and Esau in separate Iso-chambers for now, getting them everything they need and any comforts they want. So far there’s been no talking from either person, but I’m chalking that up to ‘trauma-via-ineptitude’ unless we start to see conclusive signs of the contrary.

By the way, is this really what the Council is concerning itself with these days? I’d have thought you’d pay more attention to the actual problems in our systems. Where’s the outreach for the miners on Vargas, you red-tape-touting cockroaches? At least someone like Cillian Mercer gets things-

Transmission cuts off.

Transmission from Hunter Yin, Clasped Fist of the Gamayun
Location: Gamayun labs, Font’s 3rd district
Dating: 2nd report – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: medical report

(high-pitched electronic music whines in the distance)

Apparently, the last transmission wasn’t “in line” with official Council procedures. My apologies, on behalf of your procedures. Still, I’ll be keeping it civil from now on, because I’m just that considerate.

We’ve moved Iza and Esau to a single Iso-chamber. That’s not normal procedure, but we didn’t have a choice. Iza started screaming and clawing at the walls shortly after the last transmission – damn near tried to tear the chamber to pieces. Our equipment went crazy, too, getting all sorts of mental readings. Esau just started shivering, and his vitals were beginning to get dangerously low.

So, we brought him in with Iza, and it looks like that’s got them to calm down for now. They’re eating again, which is encouraging. Esau’s temperature is stable, but our equipment’s still throwing up unusual mental activity – looks like parts of their brains are fully in sync with one another. There’s no tangible energy link there as far as we can tell, it’s more like a reactive connection, like they’re feeding off something larger. I think if we keep them here for a while longer, we can get a clearer picture of what that something is.

A few of the other lab members have also noticed that both Iza and Esau have started humming these strange melodies sometimes. Could be a coping mechanism, but I’ll have to see it for myself to report more; I’m only working off recordings at the moment.

Well, councilors. That’ll be all from me. Oh, and any and all communication from here on will be done through an intermediary; because frankly, talking to you people makes me sick.

(music gets louder, cuts off)

Transmission ends.

Chapter 13: Blackout

---

Blackout

Report from the 29th conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Ferus Haden, Moira Craine
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, Kim Lee, Elijah Burke
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Mandla Bankole, Haley Nguyen

…Varse has been placed under supervision on station Ignis. One of our best officers, Brighton Connors, is conducting a thorough examination on her and her crew. Thanks to our research on Mímir, there is one thing that we know already: this artifact – the Cradle – can be activated. Exactly how, or what this activation will achieve, remains to be seen. Our teams on Mímir are working diligently to answer those questions.

Now, the Council must unfortunately redirect its attention to an issue plaguing the Federation’s outer systems. The mining planet Vargas was one of the first to be affected by the Cradle’s strange signals. Now that communications with Vargas have been restored, it has become clear that something is very wrong there. Miners have been dying by the hundreds, perhaps thousands, from overdosing on an unknown substance.

The Federation strongly believes that this epidemic is a result of Vargas’s disturbed communications, and has warned the Council that if nothing is done regarding this situation, they will freeze trade with both the Union and the Empire. Councilmembers of the other factions have expressed a dislike for using the entirety of the Council’s forces in this situation. Their attitude is understandable, given that the Council’s full commitment to the Kepler-7 incident in the Empire limited many of its actions in the events that followed.

It has thus been agreed that the Council will take a partial stance on this matter. Certain councilmembers are convinced the drug problem on Vargas is the result of outside influence, a chance opportunity seized upon by drug traders from either the Union or the Empire. Early toxicology reports on the miners cannot identify the drug’s immediate origin, though it appears to be most similar in make-up to the Union’s “Do-drops”.

There are others on the Council that call for a military response to the issue, believing that the mining planets need to be policed, and the drug problem solved at the site of its emergence. Their reasoning is that a strong-handed response will both discourage further trading of this drug, and enable more intelligence to be gathered as to its origin.

To account for the possibility the drug is external to the Federation, every faction would need to increase trade restrictions and inspections across their borders, a measure that would significantly slow down trade, in some places even halting it completely. The second possibility, that the drug itself is an internal problem within the Federation would require a more direct, combined effort from every faction, using both Union and Imperial expertise to regulate Vargas and investigate the drug problem in more detail. An immediate response would require several of the ships currently stationed along the route to Mímir to be relocated to Vargas until reinforcements can arrive. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Council restrict trade routes, hoping to catch out the drug traders if they are indeed coming from outside the Federation, all the while slowing down trade in the Core Systems? Or does the Council send forces to curtail the spread of this new drug immediately, potentially learning more about its origin while lessening the defenses around Mímir and the Cradle?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Federation Storyline

Transmission from San’a, Valkyrie of the Federation and representative of President Lee

Good sol, Explorers – it’s good to be back, I trust Ana and Viktor treated you well while I was away. The closeness of the vote during our last conference just proves exactly how important listening to the people’s voice is in these matters. Whatever the result, the Universal Council does still strive to do right by every faction they represent.

I am also glad to be able to fully participate in this conference’s vote, as my experiences on Vargas outweigh everyone on station Ignis. Although, I will freely admit, I found it disheartening how few councilmembers seemed willing to take this into account – even Áurea seemed unusually despondent. I hope to find you Explorers a more attentive audience.

When I arrived on Vargas it was absolute chaos; everything I’d heard about communications being gradually restored was a gross overstatement. Only half, if not less, of the planet had any coherent communication with each other, and the rest were all black spots – nothing came in, or out.

The only consistent message from the ships looming above the planet was our production goals. Of course, I do – and did – understand the necessity for clear instructions in dire moments, and put all my efforts into encouraging the miners peacefully. Unfortunately, these attempts often brought resistance, some of it violent. Keeping profits up was not easy; I’ve done things I’m not too proud of, but that’s the job of a Valkyrie. We keep the Federation safe, and that means the entire Federation.

So yes, I have watched this drug problem grow – it was better than the alternative. This was a crisis situation, so we had no other choice than to police where we could, while keeping our production goals in mind. And, while I’m glad that we are finally able to address it, I cannot help but feel we will be playing into someone’s hands no matter what. The Federation will be able to recover from trade restrictions, but… our citizens, the people we—the people I’m supposed to protect won’t like it.

Good luck, Explorers, and as always – stay vigilant.
San’a

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

Greetings, Imperials! It is a shame we were not able to welcome these new Union members into our fold during the last vote; I believe we had a particularly… extravagant welcome lined up for them, were they to arrive. But still! Our Mendacian division has informed me this vote may end up playing out fortuitously for us after all. We shall just have to wait and see. Let the grace of Imperator Solas – may he outlive the stars – be upon us all.

As for Imperial military affairs, Ivona Craine has taken time from curtailing another Vulpis Oculi revolt on Chysme to visit Eden Lycanis and attend to the current governess, Gloria Morell. Gloria is preparing to hand over the reigns to Marcia Lycanis, as a show of good faith towards the house regarding its newfound compliance. Lady Morell will be returning to station Ignis before the next conference, on her route to the Imperial capital.

These current issues around Vargas have caused us no end of concern – if the Federation could just fall to its knees we would all be better off for it. Slavish devotion to substance is no different from slavish devotion to median mediocrity, no? Federation exceptionalism, hah! These miners are clearly not exceptional people, and thus asking them to perform exceptional tasks can only lead to ruin. No, things are far better when citizens are comfortable in the place where they belong.

Then, the Federation has the gall to demand we restrict our trade as well! Simply because of a problem caused by their own promises of success! Yes, this may perhaps be the first vote in a while to which the answer is so plain. For are we to relinquish the ease of access to exotic spices and far-off delicacies, simply because the Federation cannot control their drug-hungry proletariat? I think not. After all, as I have mentioned before, no force would be foolish enough to attack Mímir. Not when all the factions are watching. The problem stems from the Federation, and as such the issue should be dealt with within the Federation.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Haley Nguyen, Union member and Vox representative

Well, San’a certainly remembers how to make an entrance. Trust a Valkyrie to get in a shouting match on her first day back. I’ll fully admit Mandla went a bit overboard; I mean, invoking Union combat rites during a conference is going a bit too far. Though I really have no right to say that, do I? Anyway, they’ve both calmed down now, and we’ll probably hear a formal apology from them, sooner or later.

Not that I’m gonna stick around for that. Apparently, Mercer’s crew are having a little difficulty with this latest Ojin-Kai raid. I’ve been curious to see exactly what he’s doing that’s got him such a high success rate, so I guess I’ll finally get to see that for myself. Bastion should be picking me up a few hours from now.

Before I go, though, I just want to say this whole Vargas situation stinks of Federation shit. They push their workers far beyond their limits to keep their bottom line up, and they’re surprised when they turn to drugs to cope with the insane working hours expected of them? I would’ve hoped Kim would have more sense than that, but I suppose even the Federation’s good eggs are held down by Corpos.

Mandla mostly had a problem with the trade restrictions being enforced for every faction. I understand where he’s coming from, but having the Federation be the only faction affected just wouldn’t work – it’d give us too much power over them.

Problem is, while some of our Union systems are fully self-sufficient, a lot of them will run into problems with these trade sanctions. The Federation has the Nexus, which lets them co-ordinate large-scale ops like these, but us? Developing and fringe planets in the Union aren’t going to have it easy. The Bastion can provide some assistance, but that’s going to spread our supplies really thin. Sending in the ships from Mímir is by far the safer option, but can we really risk losing at least half of the Cradle’s defenses?

I’ll have to leave that up to you, Explorers. Depending on how we vote here, I might be gone for the next conference; not sure if Aish’ll be taking over, I know she’s been pretty busy lately too. In any case, make sure to talk it through with your fellow Union members before you vote.

Here’s to a brighter tomorrow.
Haley

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Restrict trade routes 2 (Empire,Union) , Send forces to Vargas 1 (Federation)

The final vote is in favor of restricting the trade routes between the factions. Missives have been sent from the Council to the borders of each faction, informing them of the agreed-upon measures. We expect to be able to report on the effects of these changes and their implementation soon.

Backup

The following is the Universal Council’s official report regarding the increased trade measures across the Core Systems:

Trade restrictions are gradually being implemented along each faction’s borders. Ships from the Federation, the Union, and the Empire have collected themselves into a regimented collective system, with the Oracle predicting ship movements within the Empire, the Nexus relaying this information to the Federation, and the Bastion transporting Union ships to where they are most needed.

The current measures have also necessitated a loosening of certain military agreements, allowing larger ships to cross faction borders and venture slightly deeper into the other faction’s territory. This is due to the fact that certain pilots have found it necessary to attempt to “evade” the current restrictions, often in dramatic fashion.

Alongside these arrangements, the restrictions have already begun showing returns, as some instances of the new drug have been seized already, and more in-depth analysis of the substance in its non-ingested state has begun. Our researchers have designated the drug as Heka-α1, though its users have taken to calling it “Blue Skies”, due to the intense light-blue halo that lingers around the irises after it is consumed.

There is no clear source for the drug as of yet, as the apprehended shipments – all small scale – have originated from every faction, and number too few to build a larger picture. Initial results do seem to be biased towards the drug originating from the Union, but this means very little; the battle we are fighting is one of attrition, not of immediate action.

As the borders begin to close in, the Council has already received several reports detailing the consequences of these new measures. Union planets on the fringes of the systems, particularly those that relied on metals and energy from other factions, have found themselves without food, and many are currently being housed on board the Bastion, which is nearing capacity. In the Empire, there is significant unrest brewing among many of the outer rim planets, as splinter groups of the Vulpis Oculi are making their voices heard.

Just before issuing this report, the Council was also informed of another unsanctioned vessel: a single small ship coming from Federation space, headed towards the Empire. It had no markings or affiliations of its own. If regulations had not been as strict as they were, it may very well have slipped past the Federation’s usual border patrol.

As initial warnings to this vessel did not receive any response, the crew moved to investigate. They found the ship empty, carrying no crew and no pilot. Fully automated flight systems are not unheard of, but they are not usually used for transport, as they are still too unreliable. Upon forcibly opening the outer airlock, the border patrol crew made a perplexing discovery: the inside of the transport vessel contained one of the Shards from Mimir, undamaged and wrapped in a lead blanket. Evidently someone within the Federation was attempting to send this to the Empire; but who, and for what purpose?

Regardless of the answers to these questions, the Shard has – with the approval of the current councilmembers – been relocated to station Ignis for the time being, while the trade restrictions are in effect. It is the Council’s hope that the factions encounter no more of this traffic, so that the Heka-α1 drug can be dealt with as securely and swiftly as possible.

Chapter 14: Dire Straits

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Dire Straits

Report from the 30th conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Ferus Haden, Moira Craine
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, Kim Lee, Elijah Burke
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Mandla Bankole, Trice Chavos

… and that closes the discussion of the situation on Vargas. Needless to say, the Council is doing everything in its power to ensure that the use of Heka-α1 does not spread beyond Vargas.

It also bears mentioning that Sera Varse has left station Ignis without any notice to the Council or her superiors. This is concerning, considering her recent silence surrounding the events on Mímir. Commander Brighton Conners has been assigned to follow the Lieutenant Commander, last seen heading toward Imperial space.

It is now, councilmembers, that the Universal Council must address a moment of immediate crisis in the Core Systems. What follows is an excerpt of the last transmission the Council received from Mímir:

“This is Mikheil Grimes
(static)
…to the Universal Council on behalf of Professor Reyes.
(static)
…the Crimson Wolves. They’re continuing to hit the ships stationed around Mím-
(static)
…straight through our defenses. They’re advancing, and we have no way
(static)
…stopping them. If they keep this offensive up we’ll be forced to
(loud crashing, static)
…before we can transmit it to the Council. Professor! Don’t move, professor – stay sti-
(static)
But we know now what the Cradle can be used for: it is capable of opening wormholes. That’s what the Anomalies are, they’re
(static)
…large enough burst of Quantum to set it off. But if we do we’ll be interrupting the transmission
(static) …all the data will be lost. But if we don’t… I’m not sure how long we can hold out.
(static, thudding boom off in distance)
Everyone get back! Rezza, get the professor into the caves! Please, councilors – our
(static)
…in your hands.”

Yes, councilmembers. The Crimson Wolves, the force that caused so much mayhem during the Kepler-7 incident, have launched an attack on Mímir. Though they are missing their command ship, it seems their numbers have only grown. After focusing all our efforts on their large ships before, it seems we now have many more smaller fighters to deal with. From the reports, it’s a miracle our forces on Mímir were able to hold out as long as they have – had they been thinned any further, the battle would surely have already been lost.

What we have managed to understand from Dr. Mikheil’s report is this: the scientists on Mímir believe they can create another Anomaly – or “wormhole”, as they are now calling them – to swallow a portion of the Crimson Wolves’ fleet before the pirates can reach Mímir’s surface. However, this process would require sending a large amount of Quantum into the Cradle, frying the research equipment, along with all research data on the Cradle currently being transmitted through emergency channels. In the event this plan works – of which we have no guarantee – the loss of data would leave us unable to activate the Cradle any time soon.

In the event that the scientists continue transmitting the data, however, they have no means of defending themselves. The Council has already sent reinforcements toward Mímir, but by the time these fleets arrive it will most likely be too late. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Council order the researchers on Mímir to activate the artifact, hopefully saving themselves from the Crimson Wolves, but losing crucial data in the process? Or does the Council order the scientists to continue transmitting the data, risking their own lives and allowing the Crimson Wolves to gain a stronger foothold on Mímir?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Federation Storyline

Transmission from San’a, Valkyrie of the Federation and representative of President Lee

Good sol, Explorers. I hope you are all keeping well in these uncertain times. Commander Varse leaving so suddenly is certainly… strange. Coupled with the behavior displayed by those Twin Suns mercenaries a while back, I am beginning to think the Union may be planning something. And taking into account that ship carrying a Shard, there is too much going on that I do not like the look of.

The Council is considering asking VasTech Valkyries for assistance in tracking the Ltn. Commander down. As it stands, I am certainly glad we have Brighton Conners on the case, but I am also sure he would welcome the assistance; it would be a welcome change if we were to track down Sera Varse and get some answers.

That brings me to the vote you have been given – for once, we are close to discovering what this new artifact does, only for the Crimson Wolves to try and snatch it away. Sacrificing the lives of those men and women on Mímir would truly be tragic, though of course, they knew what they signed up for. Furthermore, self-sacrifice, pulling through adversity to further the advancement of humanity, those are the very essence of the Federation’s values.

And yet, we must still value the lives of our citizens. Surely, a scientist such Professor Cameron Reyes has more still to contribute to us than purely his research on the Cradle. It might be wise to allow such great minds to live another day. Of course, activating the Cradle is an experiment of tremendous magnitude, but with people like Professor Reyes on site, I am sure it will proceed exactly according to plan.

I do not envy your choice here, Explorers. There is much to be said for either side, but I don’t doubt that with enough critical discussion from everyone, you will come to the right conclusion.

Stay vigilant.
San’a

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

Here we are then, Explorers. I trust your spiceless days have graced you with good health, and enough time to recount and reconsider your foolish “vote” on behalf of the Council during the last conference. What’s more, now this incident with a Shard has many of the Federation councilmembers screaming “treason”! As if the transport vessel did not come from their own systems to begin with!

It would seem we are currently marred by a slew of such egregious half-truths. Imperator Solas – may he outlive the stars – recently put paid to rumors of mounting Vulpis Oculi insurgency in the Outer Rim. Certainly, there is unrest on these planets, but this is to be expected with such loathsome trade restrictions in place. His Eminence urges us citizens to remain calm until these overblown threats are dealt with. Of course, this has meant Lady Morell’s travel has been slightly delayed, and she will be remaining on Eden Lycanis until the Council’s next conference.

For certain, this vote poses an interesting question at first glance. Do we consider the long-term opportunities we may gain from preserving the data, or do we prioritize our forces, who may benefit us in the more distant future, when this cacophony of metal and blood has all but faded from our memory?

However, for only the third time in the history of the Empire, our Emperor has spoken directly to the Universal Council, and imparted upon the councilmembers the wisdom of the Oracle. Imperator Solas has declared that the Council must not activate the Cradle; that this foolish act would set the Core Systems on a path towards total destruction.

Having spoken thus, Explorers, you know what the Emperor expects of you. Enact his wisdom, and secure the future of the Empire!

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Trice Chavos, Union member and Vox representative

Hello, Comrades; Trice here. Sorry if I sound a bit frazzled – just got out of a comms call with the Vox on the Bastion. It’s absolute madness on board right now with the food shortages, and it feels like half the Union’s taking refuge there. Haley’s still off on her mission with Mercer, but they’re expected back soon – skirmish with the Ojin-Kai near Azel is taking longer than anticipated, that’s all.

News of Sera leaving Ignis is a shock to all of us, for sure. I mean, after Iza and Esau, having another Union member suddenly rush off into Empire space is… not ideal. At the moment, I’m inclined to blame Conners; I’ve only spoken to him a couple times, but from what I’ve heard he’s a grade-A Fed ballbag – cares more about results than people. Seems likely he chased Sera off somehow. Or maybe that’s just what I want to believe, I dunno.

Moving on to the vote though, I’d like to say this one’s an easy choice for me. I’ve seen too many people die these past few conferences, and with the amount of folks clustered on the Bastion, I’m afraid that’s only going to get worse. Some heavy times are ahead if these trade restrictions continue, Explorers. I say we have the people on Mímir try and save themselves as much as they can. Data you can replicate – not so much for humans.

But still… I just can’t shake the feeling something’s going to go wrong. The Cradle’s been unpredictable at every turn so far, and there’s no reason to assume that’s going to change suddenly. Even if the Council’s researchers manage to open a wormhole, is it even going to appear where they want it to? My heart still says to put the people’s lives first and lose the data, but my gut’s going in the opposite direction. Don’t forget to discuss with your fellow Unionites, and vote for what you think is right.

Stand together, Comrades – until the end of our days.
Trice

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Save the research data 2 (Empire,Union) , Activate the Cradle 1 (Federation)

The final vote is in favor of saving the research data, allowing the scientists to continue their transmission to station Ignis while the Crimson Wolves continue their attack on Mímir. A transmission has been sent to Professor Reyes, who will surely ensure the data is transmitted successfully. The Universal Council will be in contact once the data has arrived in full.

Fenrir

Incoming transmission from the Universal Council to all members of the Explorer program. Originating from station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

The Council has received all the data from the researchers on Mímir. While most of it is steeped in scientific jargon, the abstract of the consolidated data may be of interest to members of the Explorer program. It is vital you do not share this information outside of these channels.

There has been no further communication from Mímir. As our reinforcements cautiously approach the planet, they are noting no immediate signs of the Crimson Wolves, nor of any skirmishes. This likely means that the pirates have reached the surface of the planet, and have established a defensive base there. If we wish to take back Mímir, we will have a long fight ahead of us.

What follows is the abstract for the collected research on the Cradle:

Research data: Artifact no. 4, “The Cradle”
Location: Cave networks of Mímir

Age: unresponsive to molecular dating methods, surrounding area suggests over 10 billion years, similar to previous artifacts.

Appearance: 70 by 55 meters, the Cradle is oval-shaped, with a smooth, harsh surface which feels cold to the touch. Several protrusions at the bottom of the artifact prop it up above the ground, made from similar material as the Shards. Experiments with living organisms show the Cradle is capable of siphoning organic energy. Cannot be visibly damaged by conventional methods. Surface is covered in incomprehensible carvings shaped like spirals, some of which curve inward, creating the appearance of concentric circles. When Quantum is applied to the artifact certain carvings light up, tracing lines across the Cradle’s surface. Under specific conditions these lines join together into a symbol. So far, two of these symbols have been observed, but we believe there may be several more to be found.

Effects: the Cradle is able to manifest disturbances in space-time, namely wormholes (formerly termed “Anomalies”). Judging from Commander Varse’s decrypted logs, these wormholes function as a means to transmit matter across space, and possibly time. It is still unclear how these wormholes can be stabilized, and what the conditions are to prevent a volatile reaction. The current prevailing theory is that the wormhole does not actually “create” the rift in space-time. Rather, it further exacerbates a smaller, pre-existing rift. This theory stems from the fact that the wormholes’ locations are somewhat limited. They can be offset somewhat from their starting point, but in relatively insignificant ways. What can be adjusted are both the size and duration of the wormhole, which are determined by the concentration and impact of the applied Quantum. Creating a wormhole as large as the one which swallowed Mímir, however, or even one big enough to transport a small reconnaissance vessel, would require more Quantum than has ever been seen in the Core Systems. Unless we develop methods to further accelerate Quantum (a practice which has been illegal since the destruction of the Sol system) it seems we will be unable to make significant use of this artifact in its current state.

Further notes: additional analysis of the Cradle’s behavior, as well as the wormholes it creates, has confirmed a suspicion – that the events surrounding the Kepler system and those surrounding Mímir are somehow linked. The similar signature of the spikes in Quantum energy, as well as the noticeable visual lensing and unique quality of the light, all seem to confirm this as well. This would mean the Crimson Wolves’ command ship, as well as the vanished Council ships and the Arbiter, have not disappeared. They are simply in another location in space and – potentially – time. If the Cradle is only able to open existing rifts, then this may be a blessing for us – we might yet be able to recover those ships, in the event that we discover a way to stabilize the wormholes.

Chapter 15: Last Stand

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Last Stand

Report from the 31st conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held on board station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Ji Young-Joo, Gloria Morell, Moira Craine
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, San’a, Elijah Burke
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Mandla Bankole, Trice Chavos

… the Shard is reacting with the organic Quantum. We are also receiving reports from the Gamayun Labs on Gaea that the Twin Suns mercenaries, previously detained due to erratic and suspicious behavior, have become more active. Apparently, their melodic humming has taken on distinct patterns that scientists at the Labs are currently attempting to identify.

There has been no sign still of Sera Varse, who fled station Ignis some time before this council’s 30th conference. Commander Conners, who was assigned to pursue the Ltn. Commander, has requested the use of several Valkyrie units in tracking her down. Currently, the Council is awaiting confirmation from the Federation Corporation VasTech on this matter; most likely, the Valkyries will be dispatched before the next conference. In the meantime, Amanda Kaito, vice-president of Borealis Inc., has been dispatched to the Imperial capital as an ambassador to negotiate the practicalities of Valkyries entering Imperial space.

And now, councilmembers, as you are well aware, we move on to the largest threat to the Core Systems: the Crimson Wolves, who continue to hold both the planet Mímir and the Cradle hostage. Initially, the Council’s strategy was to gather our forces and prepare for a raid on the planet. However, just a few days ago, the Federation’s outer planets picked up this transmission from the Crimson Wolves:

“Right, you council bastards. You don’t need to know my name or where I’m from. The only thing you need to know is that the Crimson Wolves intercepted yer transmission-

(loud cheers in the background)

-that we’ve got a hold of this Cradle, and we know exactly what we’re gonna do with it. Don’t even think about moving yer ships anywhere close to this planet. You are gonna get that power-hungry snake of an Emperor to give us back our captain – to give us back Montez Lycanis, from whatever cell they might have thrown ‘im in. If you don’t, well… I think some of yer fleets might enjoy a little “wormhole excursion”, don’t you? Keep us waiting too long, and… boom. Got that?”

Unfortunately, it appears the Crimson Wolves acted quickly enough to intercept the data we received from Mímir, and are looking to unleash the destructive force of an unstable wormhole across our assembled fleets. While it is unknown if the pirates even have the technology to accomplish such a feat, there are a few thousand soldiers stationed around Mímir, and the potential risk to them is… devastating.

The pirates seem to also not be aware of the recent escape Montez Lycanis’ made from Imperial custody. This, the Council may be able to use this to its advantage; instead of fighting the Wolves directly, which may spur them to use the Cradle’s power against us, it may be wiser to attempt to deceive them, to bluff our way through the exchange of Montez, and take back the Cradle that way.

Of course, if this scheme were to be discovered, the consequences could be disastrous – far worse than if we had simply attacked the Wolves. We can certainly best them in combat, but the unknown factor of the Cradle means that any attempt to predict the outcome of this fight is close to futile. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Council attempt to deceive the Crimson Wolves into a false exchange for Montez, in order to prevent them from activating the Cradle? Or does the Council order the fleets that already surround Mímir to attack, risking the pirates activating the artifact and creating yet another wormhole?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Federation Storyline

Transmission from San’a, Valkyrie of the Federation and representative of President Lee

Good sol, Explorers. Our crackdown on Heka-α1 is proceeding smoothly, as the shipments discovered at the border continue to lessen in frequency. No further uses of the drug have been recorded outside of the Federation either, which is, in a certain way, reassuring. No doubt the Empire would cover it up anyway, and I have my doubts about the strictness of the Union’s regulations, but the fact that the drug’s existence is deniable bodes well for the stability of the Core Systems.

As of now, the Federation is turning its full attention to Vargas, and our investigations into the drug’s origins. Even though shipments to Vargas and its surrounding planets are being heavily monitored, Heka-α1 continues to perpetuate itself. This suggests there is, at the very least, some form of supplier based on the planet’s surface. But do not worry, Explorers – we will flush them out eventually, whoever they may be.

And now, I have to give you my considerations on the current vote. If President Lee were here, I’m sure she would have advocated sternly for negotiating, but as it stands, we have only the hard hand of President Adonis and the pliable mind of President Burke to guide us. I cannot deny, my first preference in such matters is also a military approach, but I can’t help but get the feeling we’re overlooking something. Why would the Wolves be so confident in their play? Why would they risk their own fleet if their threats were empty?

Doubt riddles my mind, Explorers, and I must clear it soon. I am not so certain the Wolves are bluffing, but lying to an enemy with such an advantage is also not advisable. I know the situation may seem dire, but the Federation will continue to persevere – of that much I am sure.

Stay vigilant.

San’a

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

Well, well, Explorers, it is another fine day to be a citizen of the Empire, is it not? I am glad at least not all of you have taken leave of your senses. Though with the directive of the Emperor, I had certainly presumed there would be a larger majority that would stand against activating the Cradle. Perhaps there are still some of you who sympathize with those cockroaches in the Vulpis Oculi, persistent pests who are cropping up more and more as of late.

Well no matter, the correct decision was made, and these… disturbances will soon subside, I have no doubt. As if to emphasize the Empire’s endurance and security amongst these trying times afflicted upon us by the Council, Lady Morell has reclaimed her seat as a councilmember, taking to her position with a renewed fervor.

And such fervor is certainly necessary, given the vote which the Council has now placed before us. It is highly unlikely that these Crimson Wolves, these piratical wretches, have the ability to activate an artifact, where even the most decorated scientists of the Empire have failed! Needless to say, a frontal assault would be the most enticing and self-evident option in this case. To crush the Wolves under the Empire’s heel would surely be a sumptuous conquest.

Of course, there may be more to gain even from a surreptitious approach. The Council sees only risk-aversion, but surely you, with the military insight of the Empire, are well aware that espionage is sometimes a far greater tool. To convince your enemy you are in fact, their ally. Why should we not do so, indeed! To destroy the Wolves from within, and sow doubt and dissent within their ranks, only to viciously break them apart!

Conquest and victory are the lifeblood of the Empire, Explorers, and either of these choices will bring us such an outcome. I ask only that you choose well, and see to it that the hand of Imperator Solas – may he outlive the stars – will guide the Council fleets to victory!

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Trice Chavos, Union member and Vox representative

Whew, good day, Comrades. Well, I say good, it’s… definitely a day. Conference just ended, as I’m sure you’re aware, but it’s what happened right after that that’s got me in this state. We got a comm from the Vox communications section, and… There’s no nice way to put it, I suppose – Haley is dead. She was out on Finch, working on securing more of the Ojin-Kai, and a Gamayun Assassin did her in. Tibian sniper – ripped right through her armor. Apparently some internal dispute between Gamayun and the Celestials is kicking into high gear, and she just… wrong place, wrong time.

I’m having a hard time processing all this – I mean, the news just arrived on my comm feed, so… I don’t have much to say about it. I feel like I should give you some speech about her value as a person, but I just can’t bring myself too. As a Gamayun myself, I feel strangely… guilty, I suppose. Anyway, I’m- I’m sorry. Gotta get on to the vote…

The Wolves intercepting that data is definitely a real issue. Most Union scientists seem to- seem to think Sera’s team must have activated the Cradle somehow in order to get Mímir back, so… if they can do it, so can the Wolves, no? Maybe they know something we don’t. All the same… If we go through with this bluff, and they call it, we’re fucked. Might be able to buy time, but it’ll be a slaughter. We can’t give them what they want, but we can’t fight back either. Real rock-and-a-hard-place deal, this one.

Sorry if I sound dejected about this, just a little bit hard to… care right now. I dunno. Bluffing is the most optimistic option, and I think we might just be able to pull that off. If the damn Empire hadn’t just lost Montez, then maybe we wouldn’t be in this situation.

Anyway, Explorers. Just grieve in your own way. Speak to your fellow Union members. If any of you knew Haley well, I’m truly, truly sorry.

And yeah, stand together comrades – until the end of our days.

Trice

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Deceive the Crimson Wolves 0 () , Attack the Crimson Wolves 3 (Empire,Federation,Union)

The final vote is in favor of attacking the Crimson Wolves with every ship currently en route to Mímir. Thankfully, the Obelisk, a class-S frigate, has just arrived to bolster the fleet. Unless the Crimson Wolves make good on their threats, this victory is all but assured. We expect word from Soren Lynk on the fleet’s progress soon.

Fearless

Transmission from Soren Lynk
Location: the Obelisk, 3rd class-S frigate of the Universal Council
Dating: 4th report – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: mission report

“This is Soren Lynk, comms officer for the Obelisk. We are steadily approaching the planet, but our front line has been ripped to pieces. That being said, there are no signs yet of the Wolves even attempting to activate the Cradle, which bodes well for us.

“A hundred or so casualties on our side so far. The entirety of our left flank was completely destroyed due to a frontal assault by one of the Wolves’ ships. Don’t know why they’re holding out like this, seems only a matter of time before –“

(crashing)

“Soren! We’re being hit from the side! The right flank now! Looks like… wait, that’s not one of the Wolves’ ships, it’s a class-C, Empire-made!”

(high-pitched droning)

“Hold on, transmission incoming. It seems like this ship wants to talk to us – don’t let up the attack. Patching us through, and…”

(click, static)

“Obelisk? Oh thank god. This is Sera Varse – listen, you have no idea what you’re dealing with down there.”

(static)

“Hold your fire, officers. Approaching ship appears to contain Commander Varse.”

“What do you mean, ‘hold my fire’? She’s a wanted fugitive, sir!”

“Hold your fire, man! That’s an order!”

(silence, brief bursts of static and gunfire beyond the deck)

“Continue, commander. You were speaking about the wormhole? We are well aware of this threat-“

(static)

“No, you don’t understand! The Cradle can be activated manually, but it’s also dependent on Quantum fluctuations around Mímir – I don’t know where the third one’s going to show up, but we know damn well where the second one’s going to come in, and-“

(static)

“Commander, if you wish to come on board and explain yourself, you may do so under supervision.”

“No, Soren listen to me –“

(static)

(explosion)

Transmission from Soren Lynk
Location: the Obelisk, 3rd class-S frigate of the Universal Council
Dating: 5th report – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Designation: combat report

“This is Soren Lynk, comms officer for the Obelisk. Commander Varse appears to have retreated, as have the Crimson Wolves, for now. The instant this new wormhole appeared, their ships moved back and away from Mímir.

“We have observed no further abnormalities. Descent towards Mímir, and eventual control of the Cradle, is set to commence soon – what is it, Jensen? Oh god, the light. Jensen, the ligh –“

End of transmissions.

The planet Mímir has just emitted the largest recorded wave of Quantum energy in current history. The wave is set to reach station Ignis in five hours; if the Quantum Drive at the center of the station is compromised, Ignis will most likely be completely destroyed. Councilmembers and staff are being evacuated to their respective factions as we speak, but bypassing the existing trade restrictions is proving incredibly slow.

The wormhole near Mímir has once again opened up, and we are receiving reports of… others, as well, both in the Union, on the border with Kepler, and the Empire, near the Imperial capital. The Council wishes you good luck in the face of this oncoming storm, Explorers.

Chapter 16: First Contact

---

First Contact

Report from the 32nd conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32
Held in orbit of station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Solas Craine, Gloria Morell, Moira Craine
Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, San’a, Kim Lee
Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix

… and this concludes our discussion on the effects these developments may have on the Imperial populace. I… hope your concerns have been satisfied, Imperator Solas.

Yes… moving on: during the fallout from the carnage around Mímir, the factions have diligently worked together to limit the damage caused by the wormholes. As all of you well know, station Ignis has survived, though dense foliage has wrapped itself around the station’s exterior plating. President Burke, who passed away during the incident, will be succeeded by Victor Huxley, who will be stepping down as COO of VasTech to take on the position of president. Subsequent Council conferences are to be held in orbit of Ignis until we fully grasp the situation inside.

Now the intensity of the initial Quantum wave from Mímir has somewhat died down, and the Council can begin to turn its attention to the mystery of these new wormholes. Currently, they show no signs of expansion or collapse. One wormhole has appeared in the Kepler system, one slightly outside of the Lalande system in Union space, and one near Mímir, though it is not nearly large enough to subsume the planet as it did before.

While these wormholes continue to be quite volatile, initial experiments have indicated that it would be possible to send a small, unmanned probe inside them. Normally, of course, such a probe would be instantly destroyed. However, current research has confirmed a working theory held by those at the Union’s Gamayun Labs on Gaea: that the constant humming of the mercenaries Iza and Esau in fact contains embedded, shifting co-ordinates; co-ordinates which can be used to navigate the wormholes. If a small probe programmed with these co-ordinates and equipped with a system scanner was sent into a wormhole, it may well be able to give us a large amount of information about what lies on the other side.

Of course, sending through a probe with a system scanner would also be a significant risk, as such a machine would attract a lot of attention. Though many of our councilmembers believe it is necessary for humanity to expand its borders, some see the risk posed by sending the probe to be too great for the Core Systems to face at present.

In light of this, President Lee has brought another proposal before the Council: Hygeia Systems, a minor Corporation in Sector 2, has been using their exposure to the signals from the Cradle to examine and understand the wormholes in more depth. They believe that by registering the fluctuation in the wormholes, it may be possible to artificially widen the radius of the wormhole’s center, eventually allowing a manned craft to journey through.

Given the tumultuous circumstances in the entirety of the Core Systems, the Universal Council cannot afford to split its focus on any one of these projects. Doubtless, both will be developed further in time, but the question is which we will focus our efforts toward first. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Council utilize the co-ordinates provided by the Union, in order to fly an unmanned probe through the wormhole? Or does the Council attempt to use the Federation’s insights to perhaps widen the wormhole’s entrance, in order to send in a manned craft later?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Federation Storyline

Transmission from San’a, Valkyrie of the Federation and representative of President Lee

Explorers, I… I must confess, I come before you somewhat shaken. I have stood shoulder to shoulder with some of the most intelligent and influential citizens in the Federation; I have shared a battlefield with its most decorated soldiers, and yet… I have never seen a man bring an entire room to silence without saying a single word. Not once did Solas speak to us, and yet somehow Ji knew how to interpret his every intention through just his movements. And his eyes… the same distinct color as Ivona’s, and yet so incredibly different, magnetic and furious.

I do not believe the Emperor- erm, Solas, I don’t believe Solas will return to Ignis soon, but I pray I am not there when he does.

Of course, it may be that I am still somewhat affected by the loss of President Burke, and that this is merely a side-effect. He was among the five Valkyries who were my instructors at the Academy, and without him, I would not be the woman I am today. I have heard some of my fellow Federation members say that the weakest link in our faction’s chain has been broken – nothing could be further from the truth. We have lost a good soldier, and a good man.

It will take some time for Victor Huxley to make the transition to the neutral center of the Core Systems, so Áurea and I will be holding down the fort around Ignis for a while – President Lee is unfortunately extremely preoccupied with the wormhole near Mímir at present.

Which brings me to the vote, and I have to say that I do not find the Union’s methods to be too credible in this case. While they may have positive results in test flights near or within their own wormhole, this is no reason to assume it will work with the others, nor that these are not false positives, especially when the information is being extracted through the mumblings of two brain-addled mercenaries!

Apologies, I must console myself. Be that as it may, Hygeia Systems are also a relatively unproven commodity, with their most notable contribution being the improved Orea system for the Valkyrie units. It is quite clear that President Lee only suggested their research as a plausible alternative to the Union technology. Though I do agree with her in this regard, it will not reflect well on the Federation if Hygeia Systems fails in their operation.

Choose wisely Explorers – the reputation of the Federation is on the line here, and we must avoid falling further down this road of catastrophe.

Stay vigilant.

San’a

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

Rejoice, Imperials! Our magnanimous Emperor – may he outlive the stars – has graced the Council with his presence for the first time since its formation! And the fear in their eyes, oh! You should have seen that fool Áurea attempting to maintain her composure in the face of true power – I daresay she did not know where to look! Needless to say, our Emperor did not waste his words on such an inadequate public, and I was more than willing to assume my role as interpreter for his Eminence.

And yet, as base as it may be for Imperator Solas to appear before the Council, it is clear such steps are necessary. The wormhole near our capital is threatening the stability of the Empire. Our people – whipped up into a frenzy by these loathsome Vulpis Oculi, may well come to think of our center of power as weak. We must certainly show our citizens that the Empire has nothing to fear from these wormholes – that we will crush them, much like any other potential threat the Empire might face. Are we not the faction who orchestrated the raids on Idrius? Who wrought the mechanisms of station Ignis? Certainly we are!

Your blood is that of conquerors, Imperials – do not forget that. It is our duty to see to it that this issue is dealt with in short order. That then brings us to the question at hand: in what manner? It may be that widening the wormholes will also provide a comprehensive view of what exactly lies beyond them, but this may well take too long to execute. A direct missionary, an envoy on behalf of the Empire, may serve well as a method to show the Empire’s continued dominance over the cosmos. I would also advise you to consider, Explorers, that the Empire stands to lose the most in the event these wormholes turn malevolent. With the Imperial capital at risk, our decisions must be careful, and measured.

There are many ways to still the anxious haze that hangs over our people, Explorers. It is your duty, as the hands of our Emperor, to see to it that this haze is dissipated, no matter the cost.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Aish Fenix, Union member and Vox representative

When I heard Solas would be attending, I didn’t know what to make of it. Thought I wouldn’t be able to stop myself, thought my anger would get the better of me, butslinging vitriol at him, but the instant he walked into the room, I felt completely paralyzed. Like my whole body knew that no matter what I did, it’d never make a difference – I wouldn’t be able to lay a finger on him.

I don’t want to linger on the experience too much, Comrades, but suffice it to say, I’m not exactly hoping for a swift return of the Empire’s most venerated granddad. Trice and Mandla were pulled back to the Vox, so it’s just me here for now. Not that I blame them, we have no idea how safe it is to even be in the vicinity of Ignis at this point, and the Bastion’s getting fuller by the day.

All that said, I realized I had to relay the information from Gaea to the Council, but that doesn’t mean I feel comfortable about it. We’ve still got Isa and Ezau contained, and now we’re going to benefit from their detainment? That sounds like Fed business if I’ve ever heard it.

But that’s just the problem: if we don’t go with the info from Gamayun, we’re handing our lot over to the Feds. I don’t doubt they’ll be able to do what they say they can, but that doesn’t change the fact that whatever information we get about these wormholes, it’s going to pass through Fed systems first. Urgh, I swear, this one’s doing my head in. It’s not like Isa and Ezau are even going to be allowed to leave if we use the Gamayun findings! It’s just the fact that we’ll be profiting off their misery that makes me sick to my stomach.

If I had to lean one way, I’d say taking a stance against the misuse of our own people would be the right thing to do by Union principles – I know that’s what Haley would think, at least. Times being the way they are, I just want us to do something that’d make her proud, you know?

Keep your head high, Comrades.

Aish

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Send an unmanned probe 3 (Empire,Federation,Union) , Widen the wormhole 0 () The final vote is in favor of sending a probe through the wormhole. The necessary materials are being prepared, and the probe is to be sent out shortly. The Council has determined unanimously that the targeted wormhole be the one near Mímir, as it is the most isolated and well-documented of the three. We expect the probe to return before the end of this conference, and the Nexus’ communications network will ensure its findings reach the Universal Council as soon as possible.

Revelation

The following is a report from the Universal Council concerning the proceedings of the probe guided by the Gamayun Labs:

The probe has made a brief return from its excursion beyond the wormhole. Its findings, though limited, are of immense importance, and will need to be addressed directly during the next conference. After passing through the wormhole, it seems that even when following the co-ordinates provided by the Gamayun Labs, the exterior plating of the probe seems to have melted away. If a manned craft had been sent, even with a further widened wormhole, the pilot would surely have perished.

Upon its return through the wormhole, however, the operation hit upon yet another problem: any and all transmissions to the probe were scrambled, negatively affecting navigation and resulting in yet more damage to the unit. If we are to send any future probes, it will perhaps be necessary to find some stronger substance with which to build them – even more so if we plan to send manned missions.

Thankfully, the probe’s scanning systems have remained intact, as has the data it gathered while on the other side of the wormhole. From these system scans we have discerned something incredible: these wormholes seem to lead to an entirely new galaxy. What’s more, some of the planets in these galaxies are like nothing we’ve ever seen before. Though some of the biospheres on these planets are still similar to those found around Mímir, for example, many others are completely foreign to us, with strange, ambient landscapes that may support all kinds of life.

Presently, there is no way to know whether each wormhole leads to the same destination, or whether there are multiple different locations they may open out on. Further expeditions will no doubt answer this question conclusively.

As is custom, the Universal Council representatives of each faction have also been notified of this discovery. Since it is quite likely we will be able to send a manned expedition through the wormhole soon, questions surrounding sovereignty have naturally arisen. From our initial sweep of this galaxy, it doesn’t seem that any of the planets in the immediate vicinity of the wormhole contain highly intelligent life. As such, each faction has argued for an equal distribution of planets among the three factions, with the exact nature and allocation of planet ownership to be discussed during the next conference.

As a final note, our researchers on Mímir are continuing to study the Cradle’s erratic behavior. It is their current belief that the Cradle’s activation was not, in fact, caused by any direct action from the Crimson Wolves. Rather, it was a result of an instability in the Quantum veins beneath the planet’s surface, compounded by increased Quantum activity in and around Mímir itself. It would seem the pirates deliberately disrupted the veins of Quantum running through the planet’s caves, and lured in the Council’s fleets, anticipating that this concentration of Quantum Drives would trigger the artifact’s activation.

The Crimson Wolves’ motivations for doing so are currently unknown, as they do not appear to have capitalized on the current disturbance in any noticeable way. However, it is surely only a matter of time before they rear their heads once again.

Bonus Story: Paradisia

Sometime after the 29th conference of the Universal Council...

The second sun was going down on the Virides – the highest mountain range on Eden Lycanis. As it passed by Skolpi, the lowest peak, its rays cut across the sky and framed the valley below in a shimmering display of fire and warmth. Its angle is slightly off. From the branches of the poplars below whose evergreen shade could stand to be a touch less vibrant came a sound that would have carried even the most agitated, sorrowful person into a state of utter solemnity. Even so, it grates ever so slightly upon the ear. It is almost pleasant, but not completely. Above, Imperial frigates traced faint lines across the breathtaking tableau, an almost imperceptible imperfection. So this is what it looks like when an Imperial house falls to ruin, thought Ivona Craine, brushing the faintest layer of dust off the balustrade of the 11th observation platform. She had been on the Eden of House Lycanis for several days now, pulled away from the fighting at Chysme for ceremonial purposes; as the one who had captured the bastard Montez, House Lycanis wished to honor her. Ivona scowled. Captured, certainly. But they let the bastard escape. Now, you’ll never know- She strangled the thought before it could end, and continued tracing her hand along the platform’s glass walls. Eyes ahead, Ivona. She repeated the mantra a few times as the sun dipped lower, calming herself by charting the stars as they appeared amid the purple sky. At times her mind slipped ever so slightly, and the sharp metal casing for her Astria, which sat comfortably around her index finger, cut into the glass like it was butter, leaving a thin line on the otherwise immaculate surface. She looked at the carving, and cast her mind back to the cold black steel of the Tempest, to the thin wisps of smoke covering the landing bay on station Ignis, and to her mother’s hushed tones as she relayed the Imperator’s plans for House Lycanis. Soon, all of this will be gone. She echoed the thought over and over as her finger cut yet another deep groove into the transparent surface, and she felt it brush against her knuckle. A material like glass was easily damaged, of course, but within the noble houses of the Empire, using it was a statement – it showed others that you could afford to replace it. Every single Eden had glass installed for its observation platforms – some even used it in the dining halls and ballrooms. As the sky on Eden Lycanis turned a deep purple and the stars came out in full force, Ivona Craine surveyed the city below – with its roads filigreed with gold, and spires that reached endlessly upwards. In particular, her eyes sought out the abigails and manservants scuttling about below; it was soothing, to some extent, to bear witness to their futile struggle – and they were incredibly easy to spot. Those carrying the blood of House Lycanis were tall, lean and dark-skinned, therefore their servants needed to be short, dumpy, and pale, often with several blemishes. Ivona smiled. It was such methods of simple opposition that made life in the Empire both possible and comfortable. She had faced both Union and Federation fleets in skirmishes or full-fledged assaults, and while the Union were fast and fearless and the Federation were adaptable and enterprising, their command was almost always doomed to fall apart; it took them too long to get anything done. Ivona, on the other hand, needed only to raise a finger, to utter a single word, and the entirety of the Third Fleet would move as one. On an Eden, it was just as simple – the boundary of servant and master was immediate, and explicit. Ivona now stood above a veritable colony of servants, examining the way they hunched their backs, their knees buckling under a gravitational constant their bodies were ill-fitted to. Their calmness somewhat surprised her – a far cry from the raucous populace she had been curtailing a few days ago on Chysme.

Paradisia, part 2

Suddenly, Ivona felt her vision get blurry. By the Oracle, not again. She reached into her robes, leaving one hand on the glass, and pulled out a light golden disc, pressing the opening to her mouth. Cool air rushed in, whistling past her teeth. She inhaled until she felt her body relax, then pulled the disc back. The air on Eden Lycanis did not agree with her – for an Eden in the Inner Rim, its atmosphere contained an uncommon abundance of neon. If she had not requested an air sample from Eden Craine for the journey, a brief foray such as this into the observation wing would have been out of the question.

By now the sun had disappeared, and a few gentle lights were moving along the edges of the platform. Ivona Craine turned her head towards the sky, and felt a familiar fear catch hold of her. What if Angstrum is dead. What if he is too far gone. Once more, she reached out her hand, as if trying to grab a hold of the stars and crush them into powder –

“Looking for something, Lady Craine?”

At the first sound of the voice, Ivona’s entire body tensed up. It was a voice that, at one point or another, had held every prominent citizen of the Empire spellbound – and most likely half of the rest of the Core Systems as well. Ivona felt a brief smattering of irritation for letting the woman sneak up on her; only now did she notice the faint smile, grimly reflected off the glass wall separating both of them from the valley below.

Gloria Morell, the Vermillion Diva, councilmember for the Empire and current governess of Eden Lycanis, gently placed a hand on Ivona’s shoulder. Ivona caught the shimmer of a Lycanis Astria out of the corner of her eye, wrapped around Gloria’s finger.

“You are out quite late.” The former opera prodigy’s tone was full and warm, with an edge that could cleave through bone. Ivona moved back and turned to face her, watching the woman’s arm carefully as it fell to her side, dangling against the ornate fabric of her blouse.

“As are you, Lady Morell.”

Gloria held a hand to her chest and scoffed in mock offense. “I happen to still be working, my Lady. It is a governess’ duty to ensure every chamber of the Eden is secure.” She motioned to the freshly cut lines which ran along the platform’s glass. “And I see my concerns were well-founded.”

What’s she playing at? “ You know as well as I do that this house is doomed, Gloria.” Ivona said, almost spitting out the name. “They have caused the Emperor far too much trouble – may he outlive the stars.”

“May he outlive the stars, indeed. Is that truly so?” Gloria widened her eyes in a half-hearted display of surprise.

“Do not play dumb with me.” Ivona straddled her legs and folded her arms, feeling decidedly more in control of the situation. She smiled to herself. This was likely some vain attempt at a powerplay on Gloria’s side. “Why did you really seek me out?”

“My word, you are direct.” Gloria flashed Ivona a brilliant smile, her face settling once again into its relaxed, easy composure. She moved beside Ivona, parallel to the glass. “It’s just that I have not spoken to you at all since you arrived, Lady Craine – I feel like a terrible hostess.”

“We spoke at the ceremony, Gloria.” Ivona’s tone was almost acidic.

Gloria scoffed. “Oh yes, all that formal nonsense. I mean a proper conversation, my Lady. It must be… what, years since we have spoken candidly? That was at you and your brother’s ascension into the Third Fleet, if I recall correctly.”

Ivona remained silent, eyeing Gloria’s expression. There must be some other motive here. Gloria’s face was smooth and fair, save for a faint scar above her right eyebrow, itself slightly obscured by the crescent shape of silver-blonde hair that hung about her head. Gloria’s eyes, two beads of faded red, shone with a vivacity that was as inviting as it was intimidating, and gave nothing away.

Paradisia, part 3

Gloria leaned a hand against the glass, hanging over the platform’s precipice. “I wish, Lady Craine, that we could speak more candidly to each other, but you are always so distant.”

“With good reason.”

“Come now, really, look past your mother’s prejudices. You and I are rather alike.”

Ivona felt her throat become slightly taut. “We could not be more dissimilar, Gloria.” This is bad – I need another hit.

“You think so, dear?” Gloria cocked her head to one side. “Both overlooked by our own houses, but succeeding despite that –“

Ivona bit down harshly to stifle the growing stinging sensation in her lungs. “My grandfather has never overlooked me – nor has my mother. I’d caution you against suggesting otherwise.”

Gloria paused, amusedly. “Is that what you think?”

“Watch your tongue, snake, lest you lose it.” Ivona could feel her throat becoming drier by the second. I can’t afford her seeing me sipping an air sample like some commoner. Doesn’t she feel this? Eden Morell is towards the Outer Rim – how is she so calm?

“And I’d suggest you watch yours, dear, lest it turn itself against you.” Gloria retorted, tapping absent-mindedly at the Morell Astria that hung about her neck. “You should know that your grandfather does not place as much stock in you as you would think.”

“You would call the Emperor’s judgement into question?” Ivona’s vision was getting blurry.

“On the contrary, I think his judgement is excellent.” Gloria said, taking a gentle step closer. “But he is, at times, too cautious for his own good. Why else do you think he sent you after Montez?”

Ivona was now feeling more and more lightheaded, her voice a steady monotone. “Imperator Solas trusted that I would achieve victory no matter the cost –“

“– and so you would have, but that is exactly the point.” Gloria’s tone had risen, bringing with it a ringing in Ivona’s ears. “In fact, you would have attacked Montez even if the Council had not backed you, is that not true?”

Ivona stifled a cough, but she could feel her lungs burning. I should leave. Now. “Of course. I could not allow the Wolves to put such a blemish on our Imperial systems –“

Gloria locked eyes with her, with a cold fury that drove Ivona to silence. “And you would have died, Lady Craine, doing just that.”

The absolute sincerity of those words disarmed Ivona. In an instant, she was overcome with a fit of coughing and collapsed onto the ground, sending the golden disc spinning away from her. Her lungs were burning – her vision was swimming.

“Ivona! Dear, are you alright?” Gloria’s voice came to Ivona from up above, faint and distorted. All of a sudden, something solid, something circular, was pressed into her hand. Reflexively, Ivona pulled it to her mouth, taking a deep breath as cool air from Eden Craine filled her lungs. She stood up gingerly, stumbling a little. Gloria’s hand was on her back.

“I am fine” Ivona spat, brushing the hand away and wiping the cold sweat from her brow in a single motion. “Do you…?” She held out the disc.

“Oh no, no I do not need it.” Gloria waved the disc to the side and smiled. “We of House Morell have a knack for… adapting quickly.”

Paradisia, part 4

There was a short silence, broken only by the frigate engines in the sky above, and the gentle birdsong from the valley below. A chill stole across the platform, and Ivona shivered.

“Listen, Ivona…” Gloria seemed almost hesitant to speak. “This I heard from the mouth of the Emperor himself. The Oracle foretold your death in the event the Council did not back you.”

Ivona breathed in, grimacing at the persistent burning. “What reason would he have for sending me, if what you say is true?”

“Because Imperator Solas does not use the Oracle for the benefit of others – only his own. You would have died killing Montez, and his secrets would have gone with you.”

“Anything is worth sacrificing for the good of the Empire.” Ivona spoke, her voice distant and unsure, her words rehearsed. Her whole body was tense as she looked out over Eden Lycanis, remembering once more that day with her mother on station Ignis. What else has she kept from me?

Gloria sighed, and moved closer. “Our Emperor does not care for you, Ivona – you must understand this. He will never allow you to use the Oracle for personal gain, as long as it goes against his interests. Consider – do you really believe it is in our Emperor’s interest to return Angstrum Craine to the Empire?”

Before she even knew it, Ivona’s hand was at Gloria’s throat, the metal talon on her index finger pressed against the nape of the other woman’s neck. The Astria’s of Houses Morell and Craine glinted in the lights of a passing transport ship, inches apart. “You dare take my brother’s name in your mouth, witch?”

Gloria’s face was as calm as an ocean. “Ivona, there is no need for violence. I mean your house no harm, but I can see your suffering; it is etched into your face, as plain as your carvings on these walls.” She placed a hand on Ivona’s wrist.

“In any case –“ Ivona stuttered, her voice thick with desperation, “in any case, the Emperor has the right to do as he pleases with the artifact.”

“And if he did not?”

Ivona stiffened. This is treason. I should push my hand right through her throat. I should gut this wretched snake before she sinks her fangs any deeper. But somehow, she could not, and did nothing as Gloria’s words wrapped around her.

“There are those that think our Emperor holds onto the Oracle too tightly. It is no secret he is not the only one that hears its voice. And what does he do with this power of foresight? Sacrifice millions on the Forge Worlds, and openly contemplate the death of his own family members.”

Ivona felt Gloria’s hand land ever so softly on her neck, pulling her closer, so that the older woman’s mouth was inches away from her ear.

“There are those who think, Ivona, that the Oracle would be better suited in the hands of others. Those who hold different values – who wish to push the Empire forward, and not backward.”

Gloria’s next words were inevitable, inescapable. Ivona breathed in. She was a girl again, fifteen, screaming, sobbing, watching a lone ship dip down below the capital’s horizon.

“Those who can understand the plight of a young woman who just wants her brother to come back home.”

Paradisia, part 5

Gloria simply stood back and watched as Ivona slumped, rose, and made to leave without speaking a word. Her soft, purposeful footfalls made barely any noise against the floor of the observation platform.

Only when the arched double doors had slid closed did Gloria hurriedly pull out a thin silver disc, hold it against her mouth, and inhale. That had taken a little longer than expected. She stowed the disc back in her blouse, and looked out across Eden Lycanis, surveying the last of the transport frigates. But at last, everything was in place. She cleared her throat.

“Jakob.” The shadows on the platform shifted slightly, and a young man emerged. His eyes were vacant, and the Imperial uniform fitted him poorly. “Is that the last of the shipments?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Then prepare my ship for station Ignis tomorrow morning. We’re one step closer to bringing you home.”

“Thank you, ma’am.” The man’s voice had scant emotion, betraying little except fatigue. He turned to leave, but Gloria grabbed his arm.

“And tell our friends they can advance to Chysme. Ivona Craine shouldn’t be a problem for them there anymore. She’ll want to get back to her grandfather, I’d wager.”

“Certainly, ma’am.” Gloria let go, and Jakob shuffled off along the passageway.

She stayed on the platform for some time after, watching the last frigate pass beyond the peaks of the Virides. The lights on the walkways in the valley below had all gone out. Gloria stood alone, suspended over pitch-black emptiness.

“He sits upon a throne built of sand, and does not notice the foundations below him crumble…” Gloria Morell turned, waved her hand, and walked away as the 11th observation platform on Eden Lycanis was plunged into darkness.

Chapter 17: The Calm

The Calm

Report from the 33rd conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32

Held in orbit of station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Emille Galateos, Ji Young-Joo, Moira Craine

Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, San’a

Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix

The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:

… discuss the particulars of the newly discovered Heka-α1 production facility on Vargas during the next conference. As for the search for Commander Varse, this will need to be postponed slightly until the negotiations with the Federation ambassador in the Imperial capital have been rounded off.

Since the last vote, cursory examination of station Ignis and the vegetation which now surrounds it has begun. In addition to this, the Universal Council’s remaining resources have been conducting in-depth research into safer methods of traversing the wormholes. Now, a solution has appeared before us – though some of you may be hesitant to accept it.

Not a few hours ago, before the start of this conference, a representative of the Federation corporation Borealis Inc. was admitted to the Universal Council. This representative presented to this body the results of the corporation’s experiments on Federation soldiers whose bodies had merged with Quantum, following the events of this council’s 23rd conference. Borealis Inc.’s findings were that introducing Quantum into the human body made it more resistant to the volatile energy of the wormhole. After establishing this, Borealis Inc.’s researchers managed to confirm that introducing Organic Quantum into the body bestowed this same resistance, without affecting the mind in the way seen in those suffering from “Quantum Sickness”.

Organic Quantum, however, is a fully novel material, and was discovered during the aftermath of the 24th conference; the only known occurrence of it was within station Ignis, which is now inaccessible. Curious how Borealis Inc. was able to obtain this, the Council was referred to their research records. Through these it came to light that the corporation had – unknown to Victor Huxley, their Sector president – procured the Organic Quantum from the vegetation surrounding Ignis, which apparently contains light traces of the substance.

The representative of Borealis Inc. has been quick to point out that there is, in fact, no inter-faction law against the removal of unclaimed organic material from neutral space. However, such a law has of course never been necessary before the present situation. This has caused certain councilmembers to assert that Borealis Inc.’s conduct is no mere neglect, and rather a deliberate attempt at capitalizing on the novelty of an easily obtainable product.

Emille Galateo, whose house had been considering allowing the use of its reinforced plating – utilized on Imperial warships – for a second probe to be sent through the wormhole, has stated that his house will withdraw its support if the factions vote to back this new technology from the Federation. Emille stated this stance was partially due to the dubious ethics of Borealis Inc.’s practices, but more importantly due to the “implication that such a vulgar augmentation to the human body would become commonplace.”

The councilmember’s concern is not unfounded; the slow, but certain progress of Hygeia Systems’ research on widening the wormholes has made manned missions to the other side not a matter of if, but of when. Once these missions commence, the precedent the Universal Council sets now may likely be followed by every future expedition. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Universal Council opt for the usage of medical augmentation on those that will eventually travel through the wormholes, condoning the use of appropriated Organic Quantum? Or does the Council support House Galateo, and decide not to use augmentations for future expeditions?

Federation Storyline

Transmission from San’a, Valkyrie of the Federation and representative of President Lee

Good sol, Explorers. It was a relief to walk into the satellite in orbit around Ignis and not feel the overbearing Imperial atmosphere of oppression and decadence that seems to follow their Emperor wherever he goes.

Furthermore, the news from Vargas continues to be good – though mining production is certainly a struggle to maintain, focus has been redistributed to other mining planets in less proximity to Blue Skies, to reduce the drug’s impact. As you may have also heard during the conference, our military investigations are finally homing in on the potential base of operations on the planet. Soon, we will know for certain who spread this vile substance throughout our system, and this trade blockade will at last come to its end.

And it is here that I must turn to the conditions of the current vote. I, for one, cannot understand the issue the other councilmembers seem to have with this situation. Yes, Borealis Inc.’s actions were slightly rash, and it would have been perhaps more sensitive of them to ask for the Council’s permission, but at present only good has come from their actions – to be able to withstand the volatile energy of a wormhole is a staggering development, and well worth exploring further.

It is sad that Emille Galateo felt the need to relinquish his house’s offer in the face of these events; Imperial Forge Worlds are second-to-none in their production of metalwork, and we can be certain that if any material is to withstand the journey through the wormhole, it is their reinforced plating. However, it may be that the work Hygeia Systems is currently continuing will allow us to widen the wormhole far wider than the size of a small vessel, making such sturdy defensive measures less necessary.

If you’ll permit me to speak my mind, Explorers, in matters of both principle and practice, I see no convincing reason for us to bend to the Empire’s envy or the Union’s idealism in this instance. Human augmentation is a powerful tool, and we should make use of it as best we can. Now, as always, I will leave the vote to you.

Stay vigilant.

San’a

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

The fortunes of the Empire are as bright as ever, Explorers! No doubt you are all still spellbound from the awe-inspiring apparition of Imperator Solas – may he outlive the stars – at this very council during its last conference. I trust you will now take to your duties with renewed fervor, knowing you have come that much closer to a direct audience with his Eminence.

As expected, the overblown reports of unrest from within our own faction’s borders have also slowed, most assuredly due to the stirring wave of Imperial zeal that our Emperor’s recent actions have evoked in his people. It is only these reports of unseen assailants on Chysme that we must contend with now; no doubt Lady Ivona will weed them out promptly, after she returns to Chysme from the capital.

Speaking on the current vote, it is little surprise that Lord Emille would withdraw his house’s support so hastily – House Galateo has always been stringent and particular about adherence to honorable conduct, even by Imperial standards.

One cannot help but agree with his stance – putting aside the manner in which the Organic Quantum was obtained, this talk of Quantum augmentation is harrowing. The Federation may think it wise to give common people access to such things, but in the Empire we understand that augmentation is a privilege – one bestowed upon us by our birth, and by the Emperor himself. It is not something to be handed out to anyone with the appropriate amount of credits.

Of course, we must also consider the fact that there may be no other way to get ourselves through this wormhole. Even if there is, the very fact that the Federation could possess this technology before us is cause for worry. If we allow them to disclose it to the Council, only the other factions will lose House Galateo’s reinforced plating. However, as a faction we stand to lose something more crucial: our ideals, our belief in the undeniable sovereignty of inheritance and privilege.

You know the creed of the Empire, Explorers: we alone have the inalienable right to every star scattered across the known universe. This vote will certainly be a crucial step toward realizing that inevitable truth.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Aish Fenix, Union member and Vox representative

Hello, Comrades. Aish here, reporting in from the Hallia – that’s the satellite orbiting Ignis that we’re in by the way, don’t know why the Council felt it necessary to omit that detail. It’s probably got something to do with it being an Ojin-Kai machine, I’d bet. Yes, aside from having members who engage in oppressive extremism, some of their engineers also supply the UC with a bunch of really good tech. It’s almost as if organizations can contain “manifold and disjointed ideals” without collapsing in on themselves, Áurea.

I swear on my home’s soil, that woman’s going to be the death of me – if not the entire Union, if she has her way. Which brings me nicely to the vote, actually, because all of this “augmentation” talk smacks of typical Federation indulgence to me – sure, they appear civilized and orderly on the surface, but the moment something is unregulated they swoop in like vultures and grab whatever they can get their talons on.

And sure, it’s important to allow and encourage augmentation when it’s necessary, but this project just seems like a complete waste of resources. As much as it pains me to side with a git like Emille – whose face just won’t stop screaming “breastfed til age 14” at me – what reason is there, at the moment, for sending people through the wormhole? We’re cracking down on a drug problem, we’ve restricted trade, and the Bastion’s having to actively regulate the amount of people it’s taking on now! Sending people into an unknown galaxy, while appealing, is not exactly priority number one, I’d think.

‘Course, there is a slight problem with all this. That reinforced plating isn’t a gift – while in the grand scheme of things it’s not expensive, Union people are still going to be paying for it. We’re no strangers to contributions, Comrades, but the thought of even a minuscule amount of Union labor going towards puffing up that overfed rat Emille’s credit balance is nauseating. Not to mention, would we want to send probes representing humanity’s ingenuity and progress to other galaxies which were made by malnourished Imperial workers? The Council’s already accepted Emille’s help – our councilmembers were overruled on that account – but if we take the Fed’s tech here, we could force house Galateo to withdraw their offer.

Make sure to discuss with your fellow Union members, Explorers, and vote according to what you think is right.

Keep your head high.

Aish

Voting Results

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Side with Borealis Inc. 3 (Empire,Federation,Union) , Side with House Galateo 0 ()

The final vote is in favor of supporting Borealis Inc. in their efforts to enable safe human travel through the wormholes. The faction representatives have selected several members of their faction to take part in the initial study, which will be conducted on Borealis Inc.’s facilities on Struve-214. The first results of these experiments will be transmitted directly to the Universal Council as soon as they are available.

Backdraft

The following is a report transmitted from the Borealis Inc. corporation, originally a formal medical report to the directors on Tumulis, Struve-214. Some information has been omitted to preserve the corporations Intellectual Property Rights.

///Reports issued to:

Office C-11, operating in the Eastern Sector of Tumulis, 1st-ranked Metropolis on the planetoid Struve-214, located in Sector 3 of Federation Space, currently presided over by acting president Victor Huxley

///Source:

Jack Leung, Struve-ID ZX375, Federation ID α1-71A34x. Genetic data registered at Borealis Inc., subsidiary of the VasTech corporation.

///Topic 1:

Initial experimentation on the subjects assigned by the Universal Council.

no. of subjects: 51

Now that our efforts have been moved to a larger laboratory, mass testing has begun in earnest. The first few voluntary subjects sent by the Council have arrived; those hailing from other factions are expected to arrive later.

Subjects appear to not be rejecting the Organic Quantum. Though they are, of course, being given [REDACTED], the material is already flowing much more freely through the body. Will have to conduct further scans and tests with [REDACTED] to verify success of initial merging.

///Topic 2:

Physical and mental testing of subjects merged with Organic Quantum

no. of subjects: 46

Scans have verified that Organic Quantum has fully merged with the subjects’ nervous and neural systems. With regular Quantum merging, such progression would have taken far longer, and would have resulted in a complete loss of function in the subjects.

In contrast, current subjects are in fact excelling at both physical and mental tasks, performing above their own averages. As well as wormhole traversal, may be useful for [REDACTED] program on Simeon.

Subjects beginning to show physical signs of Organic Quantum merging; noticeably different from previously observed symptoms in subjects merged with regular Quantum. Instead of natural blue color of Quantum and Organic Quantum, fractal patterns and marks on the skin are displaying a variety of colors, in a manner similar to materials like black opal.

///Topic 3: Results of exposure to volatile Quantum energy

no. of subjects: [REDACTED]

Subjects were left in rooms with an exposed Quantum Drive, with researchers increasing the level of exposure for the subjects gradually. For safety purposes 100% exposure was not attempted, but even at 70% exposure subjects showed almost complete resilience to the procedure. For contrast, the highest survived exposure before these tests was 6.758%.

Co-ordination exercises also yielded other interesting results: subjects are not only more physically capable, but also more able to work in tandem; in the four assigned groups in the [REDACTED] activity, those with further development of Organic Quantum integration vastly outperformed the rest of the subjects.

Current results of this research suggest travel through the wormhole while using Organic Quantum to internally stabilize the pilot is fully possible. The next step will be practical testing of this hypothesis, by incrementally exposing prospective pilots to the exterior of the wormholes themselves.

Transmission ends.

As per its statements during the conference, House Galateo has withdrawn its support, and will no longer be offering its reinforced plating to the Universal Council. The other councilmembers representing the Empire have, however, agreed to the Empire’s participation in the testing of Organic Quantum, provided that once the substance is declared completely safe, non-nobles within the Empire will be excluded from its use, to preserve the faction’s delicate balance of genetic enhancements.

Chapter 18: Blue Skies

Blue Skies

Report from the 34th conference of the Universal Council: time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32

Held in orbit of station Ignis, in the neutral center of the Core Systems.

Councilmembers for the Empire: Thulani Ade’k, Ji Young-Joo, Moira Craine

Councilmembers for the Federation: Áurea Adonis, San’a, Kim Lee

Councilmembers for the Union: Aish Fenix, Trice Chavos, Mandla Bankole

The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program:

…by Hygeia Systems is completed, travel is limited to smaller probes. Given the withdrawal of House Galateo, any further probes are expected to be irreparably damaged upon their return. Initial tests conducted by Borealis Inc. in proximity to the wormholes do suggest that human travel is imminent, however.

Sending a second probe will also help finalize the ongoing discussion around planet sovereignty. For now, the projected number of planets will be distributed among the three factions; the purpose of this being to minimize any friction between the factions. Therefore, the distribution will focus on individual sovereignty, and will be directly integrated with the Explorer program. More details on the particulars of this arrangement will be disclosed soon.

Now, the Council must turn its attention to the main point of concern. The independent investigation by the Federation into the appearance of the drug Heka-α1 on the mining planet Vargas and its surroundings has entered its final stages. Following the last vote, a central facility for the distribution and manufacture of Heka-α1 was uncovered on Vargas, deep below the planet’s surface. Further examination found that those entering and exiting the facility bore markings common to the Ojin-Kai, a Union mercenary clan with which the Federation has a recent history.

This offshoot of the clan has no authorization to be so far out in Federation space. Indeed, after the Federation’s transmission was sent out, the Union responded immediately, sending the Bastion directly to the border, where it has remained since. Several fleets of Union ships have amassed around the artifact, rallied by Cillian Mercer, a respected member of the Vox and one of the more prominent representatives of the Gamayun mercenary clan. These fleets, by vote of the Vox, were sent out towards the Federation to take responsibility for the Ojin-Kai’s presence on Vargas.

However, several councilmembers, representing both the Federation and the Empire, consider this display nothing more than an excuse for the Union to push into Federation territory. The situation has now become a matter of inter-faction concern, and thus, of the Council. The Federation is gathering its forces – led by the 2nd-ranked Valkyrie Bryn – to assault the Ojin-Kai base on Vargas, as Union fleets amass at their borders to do the very same.

Cillian Mercer, in a transmission to the Council, argued that the Gamayun are used to facing the Ojin-Kai’s tactics, and will make swift work of the base on Vargas, leading to a quick end to the current trade restrictions, under which the Union has “unquestionably suffered the most”. Bryn, communicating through the Nexus, has rebutted that the Union’s prowess is irrelevant – that a threat to the safety of the Federation’s borders should not be solved by creating another. Thus, the vote placed before the Council is as follows:

Does the Universal Council allow Cillian Mercer and his cohorts to lead the fighting on Vargas, ultimately conceding that the Union should mete out justice to its own people and bringing the trade restrictions to a swift end? Or does the Council decide that the Union should stay out of this matter, and that the Federation has the right to rally against this breach of their borders, regardless of a potential extension of the trade restrictions?

Your faction contact will issue a statement shortly in your respective vote channels before the commencement of the vote, twelve hours from now.

Federation Storyline

Transmission from San’a, Valkyrie of the Federation and representative of President Lee

Good sol, Explorers. Your decision on the last vote has brought the Federation some much needed stability – for that, I am incredibly grateful. These breakthroughs in the use of Organic Quantum could improve the lives of our citizens immensely. Of course, I need not mention how the Empire’s refusal to administer the augmentation to those within their faction they have deemed unworthy is almost comical in its vexation. We will surely soon see the consequences of their foolhardiness.

Unfortunately, Victor Huxley remains absent from his position as a councilmember, but President Lee has been able to make an appearance for this conference – a good thing it is, too, seeing as the discussions surrounding Vargas are of critical importance to her Sector.

I will freely admit – the plight of Cillian Mercer and his Gamayun cohorts does move me. From what I know of the Gamayun clan, theirs is a culture based squarely around individual honor and principle, two traits that any good Federation citizen ought to acknowledge and respect. However, where they fail to sway me – and, I believe, both President Adonis and President Lee as well – is by extending this honor and principle to their fellows. Certainly, the actions of a faction member can be condemned without feeling that this condemnation needs to extend infinitely across the entire faction?

However, no matter the Federation’s moral stance on this situation, the fact remains that our forces on and around Vargas are stretched somewhat thin. The rigorous search of the surrounding planets, along with the policing of the drug trade both on the planet and at the border, have severely split our resources. Of course, this information has not been disclosed to the Council – our internal military affairs are none of their concern, and it would not be wise to inform the Union that they might be doing us a favour. I will stress that we will by no means lose this conflict – suffering heavy losses to save face is the Empire’s lot – but if our defenses on Vargas are thin now, they will be near nonexistent after the conclusion of this attack.

Consider this situation well, Explorers – there is more than just pride at stake here.

Stay vigilant.

San’a

Empire Storyline

A directive from Ji Young-Joo, emissary of the Emperor

The sun strikes twice upon the pendulum of fate this day, Explorers! Though we may have conceded the research of Organic Quantum to the Federation, we need but watch from afar as they and the Union fail to use it to its fullest effect! They will foolishly only distribute it to those in need, or spread it throughout their entire faction. No, we Imperials will use our artifact, and the divine wisdom it grants our Emperor – may he outlive the stars – to determine who is worthy to bear such augmentations.

And now, by fortuitous providence, this vote provides us yet another opportunity to stand by and watch, as the other two factions tear themselves apart. I have heard Imperator Solas speak somewhat highly of this Cillian Mercer in the past – for, though he is a Union wretch, his passion is certainly something to be matched. And yet, this makes the current situation all the more hazardous – for if we set a precedent for such a violation of faction borders, what else will follow? Bone-headed, lily-livered Union anarchy, that is what will follow.

But we must also consider the direct implications: every moment that we spend under the thumb of these trade restrictions is a moment where the Federation gains an advantage over us. They are undoubtedly better equipped to deal with these restrictions than we or the Union. Naturally, our innate superiority means we are by no means suffering to the extent that those lawless scum are, but it cannot be denied that Empire would stand to benefit in the event the restrictions were lifted. The fallacious reports of invisible assailants in the Empire have begun permeating even the Inner Rim of the Empire; we shall need all our judicial might to put those rumours to rest.

But now, I bring before you an even more tantalizing prospect. The lethality of the Ojin-Kai is well-documented, and though both factions have formidable military strength, I have gathered from our Mendacian Division that one of the Union councilmembers recently slain in a prolonged skirmish with the Ojin-Kai. What’s more, the Oracle is singing songs of certain death for this day, Imperials. Perhaps we might not only determine the fate of the Empire with this vote, but for its enemies as well.

The question then becomes, of the Open Palm of the Gamayun, and the 2nd-ranked Valkyrie of the Federation, who poses the largest potential future threat to the Empire?

Let the songs of the Oracle flow through you, Explorers, and let the vigor of our Emperor fill you with resolution.

Sic itur ad astra.

Union Storyline

Comm from Aish Fenix, Union member and Vox representative

Hello, Comrades. Not quite sure how I feel about the outcome of the last vote, to be honest with you. To use Organic Quantum to shield ourselves is one thing, but this… Trust the Federation to take a method of protection and turn it into some sort of weapon. We might be heading down a dangerous path here, Explorers – it’s times like these when I find myself wishing we could get an Oracle of our own.

And I can’t say I’m particularly keen on this whole gung-ho attitude of Mercer either. Don’t get me wrong, I have tremendous respect for the man, but… there’s a part of me that’s thinking: “isn’t this why we have the Vox? To make sure moderation prevails at times like these?” But as it stands, I can’t blame our fellow Union members for getting swept up by all the bluster and bravado.

And I can empathize, I really can, as I’m sure can many of you. We’re hungry, we’re watching more people file into the Bastion every day, and seeing other Union folk put an end to this misery when we unknowingly started it would feel somehow… right – not to mention how much I’d worry about what the Feds might do to the Ojin-Kai once they get a hold of them.

But when it comes down to it, I just don’t know if that’s the right choice, Comrades. Yes, we’re in a difficult situation, but should we let that situation define who we are? What we stand for? I’d like to believe in a Union that can weather this storm, and not shed its principles at the first chance of an easy way out.

Whatever you choose, I’ll stand by you, Explorers – that’s what keeps the Union strong. I’ve said my piece, and I thank you for hearing me out, as I hope you will all your other fellow Union members.

Keep your head high.

Aish

Voting Results

The results are here!

The Universal Council has consolidated the votes of each of the factions: Let the Union bring their own to justice 3 (Empire,Federation,Union) , Allow Byrn to attack the Ojin-Kai 0 ()

The final vote is in favor of allowing the Union to pass beyond the Federation’s border. Cillian Mercer has been notified, and the Union’s fleets will begin advancing towards Vargas immediately. The Federation’s forces will, of course, be allowed to bolster the Union’s attack, but this is not mandatory. The report of the conflict is expected shortly after its conclusion.

Routed

Transmission from Cillian Mercer, Open Palm of the Gamayun and Vox representative

Location: surface of Vargas

Dating: 4th transmission – time of ζ Sagittarii 3.32

Designation: combat report

Evening, councilmembers. Though I suppose Ignis doesn’t have natural light, does it? Well, from where I’m standing on Vargas the sun’s just gone down – a sight for sore eyes, let me tell you. The shards of phrenium in the rock make it look like we’ve got two skies; one above, one below. I’ve got my best men surrounding me, a bunch of dead Ojin-Kai on the ground, and a few thousand more with their hands held up, being led onto our ships. Gotta say, there’s nothing quite like it.

(spit)

More goddamn rubble in my teeth… Oh but, they put up a good fight. I said it in my previous comm, but the Ojin-Kai always make the chase entertaining. Tried to string us along into the caves, so I had Caspian fly his Viper into the overhang – that shut ‘em up. After the battle, we prayed for his light to reach the stars – I’m sure he’s nesting there now.

Once we’d seized ground control, taking the mines was no problem. When the Ojin-Kai held up a front, we charged through. Where cracks formed, we widened them – showed them the righteous fury of the Gamayun, let them feel the pain of every Union member clustered on board the Bastion, using our particle cannons as battering rams.

As far as we can tell, all the facilities have been destroyed – but I’ll leave full cleanup to the Federation crew, if they ever manage to arrive. I was told we’d have backup, and from a Valkyrie no less. Guess the Union’s just a little too quick. If there’s any Feds listening: try to keep up next time.

(chuckle)

Although, I do almost feel sorry to leave this planet behind in such a state. I’m sure the Federation’s enterprising enough to rebuild it though. Interesting thing, too – encouraged some of our Drifters to take a look into the facility, check out how the Ojin-Kai got a hand in here. Guess what they found? Snuck in through a communication block in the Nexus. Except here’s the thing: those blocks didn’t correspond with any officially registered ones from the Feds’ side. Either they’ve been feeding us the wrong intel, or someone’s been manufacturing malfunctioning Nexus comms. Wonder what that could mean?

Anyway, that’s none of my business. My business is carrying these mercenaries back to the Bastion so we can finally put them to justice before the Vox. Looks like there’ll be more than enough space too, with the trade restrictions finally put to rest. Good night, councilmembers, and oh – you’re welcome, by the way.

Transmission ends.

Cillian Mercer and the assembled Union fleets have already made their way back to Union space. Initial intelligence operations on the Federation’s side have confirmed that all the Heka-α1 facilities on Vargas have been completely removed. However, the destruction inflicted on Vargas by the battle was immense, so much so that it will take the planet several full cycles to return to its full function. The Federation has not issued an official response to this development yet, but several councilmembers have already expressed their intent to impose repercussions on the Union for these actions.

As for the discovery of these “manufactured blips” in the Nexus’ communication network, it was recently discovered that the Shard sent from Federation space into the Empire originated from one of the planets surrounding Vargas, Sybill-3. The time of this shipment coincided with another of said blips. The question remains: who is causing minor interruptions in the Nexus network? And for what purpose?

After confirming with President Kim Lee and Grant Ipsen on board the Howitzer, the Universal Council has determined that the trade restrictions will be lifted in a few days’ time. Fleets and units along the borders of each faction will be able to return to their own space, and extensive vetting procedures will no longer be necessary.

Story Arcs

Expedition to Mímir:	The Catalyst • The Shard • The Crossroads • The Void • Subjugation • The Cradle • Dire Straits • Last Stand
Assault on the Crimson Wolves:	The Crimson Wolves • The Ides • Groundswell
The Morn Conflict:	On the Brink
The Pinnacle Incident:	Quantum Sickness • First Steps
The Vargas Epidemic:	Blackout
The Opening:	First Contact