BitByte

[The Stryker]

 

BREAKING: KAF Mobilizes for Operation in New Hong Kong Prefecture

New Hong Kong City, Konyang

This morning, the citizens of New Hong Kong woke up to the sight of exosuits and armored transports marching down their streets as a spokesman from the KAF announced the launch of Operation Dizang, a large-scale military maneuver intended to draw large swathes of Rampancy-afflicted IPCs to unpopulated areas near the New Hong Kong coast. The stated goal of the operation is to create a 100-kilometer perimeter around New Hong Kong City proper, and in particular, the sprawling outskirts neighborhood of New Kowloon which has long been identified by government officials as a high-risk area for violence by infected IPCs. In response to fears of high death tolls among infected citizens, the military reassured the public that measures were being put in place to avoid a repeat of previous incidents such as the catastrophe in Boryeong.

In a rare moment for the National Party, response to the operation was divided, with National Party leader Lam Xi denouncing the military operation as “a reckless adventure, fit only to kill soldiers and civilians alike,” while other affiliated MPs approved of the increased security measures for New Hong Kong. In contrast, the reception from the population of New Hong Kong has largely been approving as alongside a military buildup, Einstein Engines corporate security personnel trained by the Special Robotics Division have arrived in the city to bolster its police forces for the duration of the operation. Additionally, Zeng-Hu, in cooperation with the SCC, pledged medical and technical support to both infected and non-infected victims during the operation.

Military commentators observed that despite the ambitious goals of Operation Dizang, the forces allotted were far in excess of those assigned to previously successful “luring” campaigns in Suwon Prefecture, particularly when factoring in the limited geographic area of New Hong Kong. Extranet recordings of the forces amassing for the operation revealed that of the forces allotted to the operation, the entire human roboticist compliments of the almost-wholly positronic 8th, 9th, and 10th Marine Battalions were present despite their units being confined to barracks. Commentators speculate that due to the overall concentration of forces along the Xiangtong River, Operation Dizang’s primary objective may in fact be to re-secure KRC facilities in the region. Thus far, the KAF has refused to comment on this.

 

Further Reading:

Stock market forced to open at -12 points.

Man cuffs Gwok salesman to streetlamp: "Bo made me do it."

Golden Deep Grand Merchant steps down from Midas Group: Emerges from Control Center

[The Stryker]

 

Hivebot Surge in Wake of Operation Dizang

New Hong Kong Prefecture, Konyang

In a joint statement, the Stellar Corporate Conglomerate and Konyang Armed Forces announced that Operation Dizang successfully reclaimed Xiangtong Warehouse and drove back significant rampant populations from the perimeter of New Hong Kong City. The final assault on the warehouse, spearheaded by an elite SCC team, was captured live on camera by an embedded BitByte reporter.

A video is embedded:

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A group of individuals in corporate uniforms armed with an assortment of Konyang-issued weaponry rush into a breach in the wall. Destroyed rampant IPCs litter the parking lot and the corridor further in with the cameraman ducking and weaving to avoid SCC personnel trying to rush past. As he backs away, an individual in a Zavodskoi uniform grabs the camera, shouting into it:

Hopes were high that the operation would be a crucial first step in resolving the crisis, however reports indicate that rampant IPCs and hivebots have stepped up their attacks on civilians in response to the destruction of what is now being dubbed by experts as a “Secondary Transmitter." Shortly after its destruction, Konyang Army units participating in Operation Dizang reported a surge in aggression among rampancy-afflicted IPCs. Furthermore, Navy listening posts have detected massive incursions of hivebots planet wide, with no known origin, these bots have begun to swarm prefectures and are terrorizing areas once thought safe havens.

Defenses are holding for now as soldiers from the Konyang Armed Forces stand against the invaders, but contact with countryside villages continues to dwindle by the day. There has been no word from the Konyang Robotics Corporation or Purpose regarding a decisive solution to this ever dire situation. The government assured the public however that they are working on a solution with Purpose to solve the crisis, and that emergency services and the military were “more than capable” of containing the situation until then.

Military operations have begun across Cheomseongtang, the Yu Islands, and the New Guangzhou Archipelago to mount a counter offensive against the emergent invaders, with no reports on the outcome of these operations just yet. Battlefield footage has been submitted however of Phoenix Lance, an exosuit squad, making an assault on a hivebot swarm to what is reported as a successful engagement within these operations. 

The video attached is edited, and may be disturbing to some audiences.

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[2455-3-10]
[05:43]
[Pause >> Play]
[LOCATION: REDACTED]

 

[UNIT: GAX]

The name sits in the top left of the screen as the exosuit rumbles forwards through what was once a forest, the dawn of the new day casting beams of light through corpses of trees now torn asunder. Where once there were leaves and bushes, now half trunks and ashes. While not raining on the viewer, a cloud sits far in the distance, heavy and dark. A ripple of lightning courses through the cotton like structure as the exosuit barrels through the remains of a tree, turning wood to splinters.

The view now opening on a field torn by war, three other exosuits painted in the livery of the Konyang Armed Forces now in view, similarly barreling towards what seems to be a tornado. A tornado of old metal and screaming machinery. A tornado of death and destruction as the camera focuses on the rising funnel of hundreds if not thousands of hivebots, blue arctic lasers firing from the funnel at targets unseen, before being hit by two missiles and erupting partially in to balls of flames until the tornado rights itself once more, sealing its wound as if it never happened. An airborne strike craft streaks by the tornado afterward, before igniting in blue laser fire and falling from the sky.

A radio crackles to life, recorded by the suit’s combat interface.

[HAN:] “GAX, TALON, Take the left side, LYRA and I have the right! There’s something coordinating them in the middle, we’ll try to thin their numbers so when they spin around to you you can use the rip to take the shot before they seal it!”

[TALON:] “Roger Lieutenant! GAX, on me!”

The quad of exosuits split from one another, the camera racing behind one marked with a digital display labeling the unit as ‘TAL’, bounding over rocks and through trees of the barren landscape. In the corner of the camera, two markers labeling dots in the distance as ‘LYR’ and ‘HAN’ race up a hillside, gunfire spraying into the whirlwind while blue lights emit in return, dancing around the rapidly moving suits.

The view lifts into the air, before landing with a thud, keeping its momentum but now being angled towards the tornado while the landscape continues to race by, now from a side glance. The exosuit now moving sideways, a red crosshair appears on the display, scanning over the ripping mechanical funnel, the crosshair spinning while increasing and decreasing in size.

[HAN:] “Beginning attack! I hope you both are ready!”

Too far to be heard over the horrendous wails of the hivebots, but close enough to be seen before the attack pair disappear behind the pillar of death, units HAN and LYRA unleash volley after volley of missiles from enlarged carrying containers on their exosuit’s backs, slamming in to the adversary with enough force to quake the entire whirlwind, all the while dispensing lead and laser from cannons equipped to their manipulators.

[HAN:] “Attack complete! Weapons reloading… LYRA..”

A short pause before the radio erupts again.

[HAN:] “LYRA EVASIVE, WE KICKED THE NEST!”

[LYRA:] “I’M TRYING!”

Any pinpricks of light that were dancing around the viewer and their partner now divert to the opposite side of the tornado, painting the area in a blue glow that swallows the rising sun. What was once dispersed laser fire firing in all directions, has turned into one collective drum echoing over the warzone into the trees far beyond. The gash opened by the attack now reeling around to expose itself to the viewer, although swiftly narrowing. A gatling cannon comes into view of the camera.

[UNIT ‘LYRA’ LOST]

And with what sounds like a cacophony of tearing paper, and the rip of the gatling cannon, missiles and lead from on and offscreen from the exosuit pair rip in to the tornado, finding their target for what seems briefly like a metallic black silhouette in the middle of the funnel until destruction envelopes it. Missiles and cannon alike continue their work until the whirlwind falls apart, hivebots falling and dispersing rapidly into the sky, tracers from the gatling following their retreat.

The video stops.

This article is in memory of Sergeant Choe Gi;  Callsign Lyra, who died valiantly defending the planet from an insurmountable threat. She leaves behind two children.

 

Further reading:

Konyang Armed Forces announces further call-up of reservists: dodging to be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

Foreign aid: discussions on petition for assistance to Coalition ongoing in capital.

Xiangtong Warehouse: six SCC and five Navy deceased to receive honors.

[The Stryker]

“Nationals, not Nations”: A Look into Foreign Aid for Konyang

Ganzaodeng, Konyang

Earlier today, Parliament passed a measure temporarily easing visa requirements as well as streamlining processing cycles for foreign nationals currently involved with emergency relief efforts on Konyang. The measure, proposed by MP Cao Chunhua of Ganzaodeng, received broad support in a 257-43 majority, contested only by holdouts in the ruling New Konyang Party. It seeks to formalize an already existing informal practice, particularly in the hard-hit prefectures of Boryeong and New Hong Kong, of allowing foreign aid workers and volunteers as long as they belonged to an internationally-recognized relief organization. Political commentators note that this follows on from the present administration’s policy of refusing formal aid from nations while permitting non-governmental aid in a policy some are calling “Nationals, not Nations.”

This measure comes on the heels of a failed motion last week to petition the wider Coalition of Colonies for military support. The previous motion received general opposition from both the New Konyang Party and National Party who argued that foreign soldiers would not be trained in handling rampant IPCs, citing fears of another Boryeong Massacre. The present measure was tailored to incorporate the requests of most parties in Parliament, including the National Party’s request that only civilian aid be sought after as well as the K-KMT’s staunch opposition to any measure that would not extend the same relaxed requirements to Solarian nationals.

At the time of writing, the Konyang Immigration Service noted approximately 54,000 foreign volunteers and aid workers, including approximately 6,000 doctors, 9,000 other medical-related fields, as well as 1,600 roboticists, not including further megacorporate aid pledged by Einstein Engines and Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals. Officials also implored individuals with skills in scientific and engineering backgrounds to volunteer, pointing out that more expertise was needed to maintain rural infrastructure in a time of crisis. The immigration service also noted a large proportion of San Colettish volunteers, the planet being noted to maintain close ties with Konyang even in the post-independence climate. Thus far, the only official aid the Konyang government has requested is an increase in Ranger patrols so as to free up KASF vessels for logistics and relief duties on the planet’s surface, although they have not barred the dispatch of several medical brigades from Coalition member militaries.

While the central government continues its policy of not seeking out foreign aid, it has not stopped individual prefectures from requesting it. BitByte’s very own Pak Ki-young was able to interview one Janek Aiken, a Europan engineer who volunteered to assist with relief efforts.

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After the usual BitByte video expose intro, the camera settles on a platform in a train station in Ganzaodeng, made all the more clear by the hot desert backdrop and signs rendered in Sol Common, Konyanger Common, and the Xanan dialect of Freespeak. A young woman in a BitByte uniform holds up a microphone to a tall man in a shirt and tie who seems to be coping poorly in the heat. If the sheer amount of bone charms and general unease at the open space don’t make it immediately clear, his quiet tone and slow, deliberate manner of speech make his Europan heritage clear.

“Thank you for taking this interview. Doctor Aiken, do you mind introducing yourself and your group’s work to our viewers?”

“Not at all, what we are doing here, as you can see, is taking surplus loading exosuits from the docks in Ganzaodeng, and retrofitting them for use in marine environments.”

The man gestures to the background, as some individuals scramble over retrofitting a number of industrial exosuits with layering of some kind, as well as large canopies. From the accents of the shouting and instructions, the mechanics appear to be from all over the Spur. A large G2 in a Trinarist cloak guides a forklift carrying a large compartment-like apparatus to the back of one of the exosuits, before lifting it off of the vehicle and welding it onto the mech.

“In particular, the person coordinating with us from the Ganzaodeng Coastal Rescue service complained that her colleagues have a hard time responding to calls in remote areas due to the dangers of transporting patients and keeping them safe from rampant IPCs and the elements. I hope with some modifications, we can provide them with additional rescue vehicles.”

Pak Ki-young nods in understanding, the work team in the back finishing with their field modifications on one of the exosuits. The G2 lies down on the ground to test the contraption while an exosuit pilot with an old and faded Colettish Civil Guard cap pushes a button in the cockpit. The back of the exosuit opens up as a stretcher on a servo arm whisks the G2 away into a watertight compartment.

“Doctor, may I ask what brings you to Konyang? I understand you used to work as director of one of the manufacturing bays on the Tethys.”

“It only seemed like the right thing to do. I’m not here out of Solarian brotherhood, or synthetic rights, or whatever the others will have you think, but I think what’s happening on Konyang, with all these rampant IPCs? If we don’t get it under control, it won’t stop here. I’ve participated in some of the reconstruction and relief efforts across the Mandates, and I think now more than ever is a time for us to come together instead of closing our doors.”

 

Further reading:

Boryeong Miracle: Army colonel reports 30,000 infected lured away from city limits without casualties.

Parts trafficking in New Kowloon: infected collection point broken into.

GwokRation!: Getting drafted? Toss the latest Go Go Gwok ration in your pack before you head out, in collaboration with Up!Burger

[Noble Row]

The KAF Deploys

Suwon, Konyang

A glimmer of hope through catastrophe, while the attacks from infected victims and hivebot swarms rampage across Konyang, military leaders across the planet refuse to sit idle. With defenses holding and major populations remaining secure, the seeds of a counter offensive sparked by General Gi Seungri are taking root. Just moments ago BitByte was informed that waves of recon planes and military units from both the KAF and KASF have mobilized from their garrisons in Boryeong, New Hong Kong, Aoyama, Ganzaodeng, and Suwon in a massive search for the next hivebot transmitter.

Efforts are still underway from Purpose and Konyang Robotics to reverse engineer the beacon brought in by the Stellar Corporate Conglomerate’s elite strike team, but no word has been said to the progress of this effort. When asked for any updates, A Konyang Robotics representative said the following:

 

“We have made many fascinating discoveries in our reverse engineering of the hivebot transmitter, and continue to make steady progress. But as of this time, we are still working towards our ultimate goal with the help of Purpose. Rest assured we are working as quickly and as diligently as we can.”

 

When asked as to why the military is mobilizing in such force without a clear target, the staff office of General Gi Seungri declined any comments, citing operational security. With the planes flying overhead as this article is written, we can only hope they give us some reprieve from the constant suffering we have endured.

[Noble Row]

KAF announces Reprieve and Next Steps

Suwon, Konyang

With the military sweeping the planet and the upsurge in hivebots slowly quelled, Military analysts have begun to notice a pattern. In areas where rampant activity had been pushed back, the hivebots swarmed after the transmitter in Xiangtong was disabled. With the KAF forced to withdraw, rampant activity went left unchecked, hordes moving into once fortified locations and progress swept away. However, analysts note that after the KAF retreated from the area, the hivebots once again dispersed from once they came, leaving the rampants in their wake. Lt. Hoga Toru, a recon pilot who has flown over these installations expresses relief that there are no more hivebots swarming the skies, but alludes to the possibility of a bigger threat approaching.

Where the largest of the rampant civilian hordes roam, Lt. Toru has mentioned difficulty with his aircraft, noting increased interference in his sensor arrays that cause him to abort missions and leave the area. Military intelligence confirms that the hivebots seem to be deploying some form of jamming device, making it exceedingly difficult to get more sensitive equipment close to these locations, such as aircraft and sensor drones. Even exosuit pilots from Phoenix Lance have come forward to state that their navigational systems within their suits start displaying “ghosts” and lead them in the wrong directions, causing the pilots to rely on their land navigation skills.

One location the KAF has been able to determine for certain is that of the final hivebot transmitter, which KRC researchers are now labelling a “Primary Transmission Hub”. Representatives from the KRC and Purpose have made a public statement.

 

A crowded press pool sits in a KRC hangar hastily converted to a communications room. A glasses-wearing army captain whose name tag identifies her as “Hwangbo, K.” stands in front of the crowd giving a statement while flanked by a Purpose synthetic, several researchers from the KRC and a few military personnel.

 

“Ladies and gentlemen. With the success in Xiangtong and the recovery of the transmitter within by the SCC Elite Strike Force, we are proud to announce that we have located the second beacon. With assistance from Purpose, we have come to the conclusion that these transmitters, to work most effectively, require a near obscene amount of power to produce the strongest signals. The transmitter in the Xiangtong warehouse was only working at a fraction of its capacity due to this, and it is with… Pride.. And horror.. That we have concluded that the only location we cannot account for that can both supply this power, and elude our efforts due to sheer volume of infected in the area.. Is the Kaneyama nuclear power plant.”

 

“The details of this have already been forwarded to the military, and Purpose’s agents are mobilizing to facilitate us.. The Stellar Corporate Conglomerate, having shown their skill in dealing with one of these transmitters, will once again spearhead the assault with close participation of our brave soldiers.”

 

“Hopefully my friends this is the light at the end of the tunnel that will lead our nation to reconstruction.. And not the fiery pits of hell.”

 

The office of General Gi Seungri has confirmed that the Rapid Deployment Brigade, a Konyang Army formation specialized in amphibious warfare, as well as the 2nd Naval Infantry Division have been transported to Suwon in preparation for the operation. The KAF plans to seize the island and outskirts of the plant in preparation for the coming assault. Many police precincts additionally report contributing men to the cause in hopes of safe handling of the infected civilians. Although hopes are high for the operation, military observers note that the growing presence of infected on the coast, as well as an abnormally large amount of rampant IPCs on Kaneyama Island may indicate a growing response from the hivebots and infected.

 

Further Reading:

KASF dismisses rumors of rampant crewmembers: “Qixi Incident unrelated,” says spokesperson.

Travel: Air Konyang offers special deal in light of recent shuttle crashes.

Entertainment: Award-winning idol group “Bul” announces hiatus due to conscription.

Edited March 22 by The Stryker

[The Stryker]

KAF Faces Delays with Kaneyama Operation

Suwon, Konyang

Sources within the armed forces report delays in the planning of Operation Jiogjegeo, a joint operation between all three branches of the Konyang Armed Forces in order to retake the Kaneyama Nuclear Power Plant, which they believe is housing the Primary Transmission Hub coordinating all hivebot efforts on the planet. These delays have been driven by a number of factors including the unusual number of rampant IPCs on the island, ever-increasing numbers of hivebots attacking passing ships and aircraft, as well as a jamming signal preventing accurate reconnaissance and air traffic over the island. Military observers have noted that the plan, calling for an amphibious assault of the island by both Army and Navy units, would be the largest joint operation undertaken by the nascent KAF if it pushes through.

Two opposing viewpoints have reportedly emerged within KAF high command as a result of the delays, with one seeking to gather more strength and find a way to penetrate the hivebot jamming signal before launching the operation, while the other, reportedly spearheaded by a cadre of Army generals believe that further delays would only lead to the situation worsening. The nuclear power plant’s proximity to Suwon as well as its position next to the coast has ruled out an artillery or orbital strike of the facility as GON-ENE has reported that based on thermal readings, the plant is still operational even if it is not currently sending power to the mainland. Furthermore, a leaked document from a KASF nuclear technician stressed that “any significant damage to the facility and to the core in its current state would run the risk of a nuclear meltdown.” Although all branches of the KAF have declined to comment on the leak, they have emphatically denied all reports that an orbital bombardment of the KNPP was being considered.

The KAF has continued to remain on high alert in Suwon, with the Navy reportedly pulling ships from other regions of the planet in order to assist in the landing. As military buildup continues within the capital, a spokesman from the military attempted to reassure the public, stating, “The Konyang Armed Forces remain fully capable of stopping any further hivebot advances while preparing to drive them off-planet.”

 

Further Reading:

Health: New Busan announces full quarantine of two districts due to outbreak of rampancy.

Megacorporations: Einstein closes deal with Konyang Army for 5,000 sets of unspecified RIGsuits.

Trinary Perfection: Orepit prepares mission of doctors, roboticists, to Konyang.

[The Stryker]

BREAKING NEWS: Navy Nuclear Destroyer Mutinies

Suwon, Konyang

Citizens of Suwon found their evening routine interrupted by sounds of gunfire and the rumble of a destroyer underway as the KNV Chen Lin under the command of Commodore Mun Taeyang slipped from moorings against the orders of Capital Fleet Command and towards the direction of the Kaneyama Nuclear Power Plant. The Chen Lin, if reports are to be believed, is carrying nuclear weapons in accordance with its role as an anti-orbital vessel. Although the Navy has refused to comment on the incident, observers fear the worst as shortly after the mutiny, half of the Eastern Capital Fleet as well a full quarter of the Western New Hong Kong and Aoyaman fleets were dispatched in pursuit of the KNV Chen Lin, even into the high-risk area around Kaneyama.

The mutiny has sparked serious debate among analysts as to its reasons, though the prevailing belief is that it was caused by frustration over the KAF’s delays in launching Operation Jiogjegeo, the planned liberation of Kaneyama and the destruction of the hivebot Primary Transmission Hub. Shortly after the ship left harbor, several officers and sailors aboard the Chen Lin posted a pre-recorded video of their captain on Chirper, explaining his motives.
 

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An exhausted looking man in what seems to be his late forties faces the camera from the bridge of a Konyang Navy warship. He is wearing the dress uniform of a navy officer, complete with various medals including Sol-era ones dating back to before the planet’s independence.Those knowledgeable with various insignia of the KAF would be able to recognize him as a commodore, presumably Commodore Mun Taeyang. The video has to have been taken late in the evening, with sailors and officers in the background getting ready at their posts to launch the vessel. He braces himself, getting ready to speak, both to the camera and to a microphone announcing his words to the entire vessel.

“Hear me! This hideous crisis has raged across our planet for far too long. We have been constrained by our own weakness, too blind to see reason, too blind to see that we have lacked the willingness to act.

We seek not to destroy the planet, but to save it. The world shall be horrified by the devastation we will cause, and only then will they wake up and smash the hivebots that would have torn our planet asunder!”

Analysts have taken to believing his words imply a nuclear threat towards Kaneyama, while others point out that the Chen Lin would have already been in weapons range of the nuclear power plant an hour after leaving harbor. The mutiny itself comes as a surprise to analysts however, as Mun Taeyang, a decorated officer in the pre-independence Konyang garrison has had no prior history of insubordination and has, in many prior instances, given public statements in support of both the government and the navy’s policies.

 

Further reading:

Spur: Si'Akh fire priest spotted in New Busan

Health: experts ask, "Do overloaders actually help prevent the infection?"

Up!Burger: “Norinori makes full recovery after assault!”

[Noble Row]

BREAKING NEWS: Rogue Nuclear Destroyer Beaches on Southern Kaneyama; KAF launches Operation Jiogjegeo!

 

Kaneyama, Konyang

The sea around Kaneyama Island lit up with tracers and muzzle flashes early in the morning as the rogue oceangoing destroyer KNV Chen Lin launched itself into combat with what has been recorded as the largest hivebot concentration currently on the planet. This report follows on the heels of the vessel’s desertion under its commanding officer, Commodore Mun Taeyang, who announced in a public broadcast that drastic actions would be taken in light of the Navy’s delays. Satellite imagery from both civilian and KASF sources showed flashes of light consistent with cannon and laser fire from the destroyer in every direction, including rampant IPC and hivebot concentrations on the island as well as large beacons speculated to be broadcasting the jamming signal preventing aircraft from flying over the island. Rather than approach directly towards the Kaneyama Nuclear Power Plant as originally speculated, the destroyer steamed past the western coast of the island before making a sharp turn east, drawing the attention of large amounts of flying hivebots. 

 

Based on the latest information, the Commodore is believed to have beached his vessel on the southern coast of the island while broadcasting a signal across all open nets that can only be described as static. Although the Navy has refused to comment on an ongoing operation, KRC scientists speculate that it is derived from the distress signal broadcasted by Secondary Transmission Units that have been destroyed in previous KAF operations. Despite the theory being dismissed as implausible by other researchers within the corporation owing to the impossibility of having reverse-engineered it in such a short time, the effect remains undeniable as large masses of rampant IPCs and hivebots have begun converging on the Commodore’s destroyer, moving away from the Kaneyama Nuclear Plant.

 

In response to the development, the 2nd Naval Infantry Division and the Army’s own Rapid Reaction Brigade, handpicked as the vanguard of Operation Jiogjegeo have begun boarding their landing craft en-masse in Suwon Harbor, with all remaining elements of the Eastern Capital Fleet now tasked to hunt down the Chen Lin steaming ahead of them. In a hastily-prepared press conference, the office of General Gi Seungri confirmed that Operation Jiogjegeo was now commencing.

 

The camera opens up on a gruff and stern looking Baseline with etched scratches decorating its frame standing at a podium. Their screen black with a slight glisten that makes you feel as if eyes were staring down upon you from that black abyss. The age of this unit in particular is evident by the slight wear shown on all of its moving parts. The scene is in a tent hastily converted into a press conference area. In the background, it becomes immediately clear that this is an active military base as large formations of soldiers in Army and Navy uniforms with full equipment rush towards transports. 

 

“As of 11:00 East Cheomseongtang Time, the KAF launched Operation Jiogjegeo, with the express goal of destroying the Primary Transmission Hub believed to be located in the Kaneyama Nuclear Power Plant. Our soldiers have prepared for this day, our military has stood ready since its inception to drive back any invader that dares to tear down our republic, and today, we will not be found wanting.”

 

BitByte will continue to provide more information as the situation develops.

 

Further reading:

Spur: Tourist Unathi Accused of Being Si'Akh Priest

Up!Burger Announces New Norinori Burger

Sports: Suwon Sea Bandits IPC charity game cancelled due to ongoing nuclear destroyer incident.

[The Stryker]

Operation Jiogjegeo Successful; Rampants begin Mass Recovery across Planet

Kaneyama, Konyang

In a statement from the office of General Gi Seungri, the Konyang Armed Forces declared Operation Jiogjegeo “a resounding success” with the complete liberation of Kaneyama Island from all rampant and hivebot threats. The success of the offensive was compounded by the operation’s primary objective, the installation of a Purpose-derived artifact known as the Electronic Countermeasure Device, which is now confirmed to have completely removed any trace of the Rampancy Signal from Konyang. Reports are popping up all across the planet of rampant IPCs regaining their mental faculties, with the government launching massive relief efforts to provide aid to these disaffected citizens. Furthermore, the jamming signals that have cropped up across the planet have now ceased, allowing the KASF to once more provide air cover to the Army and Navy, allowing for planning of further operations to secure hivebot-infested regions.

This news comes as a further surprise as Operation Jiogjegeo was not expected to succeed, with reports now indicating that the previous delays from the KAF were due to an expected 80% casualty rating from a contested landing. Their initial planning was thrown off due to the mutiny of the now-destroyed KNV Chen Lin under the command of Commodore Mun Taeyang, who are believed to have lured away most of the coastal IPCs and hivebots towards them. After approximately three hours of resistance, the KNV Chen Lin is believed to have launched its entire non-nuclear payload of missiles at the coastline surrounding it, destroying massive concentrations of infected and hivebots while killing most of the ship’s defenders in the process. Commodore Mun Taeyang is also believed to have been killed in the explosion with the sole surviving officer from the encounter reporting that he stayed on the bridge of the Chen Lin. Footage released shortly before the detonation was uploaded to a Navy source by one of the defenders of the Chen Lin.

Viewer discretion is advised as the video contains explicit language, disturbing images and intense violence.

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A squad of Konyanger Naval Infantry huddles behind a wall of liquid bags on a beach, opening fire at oncoming rampant IPCs and hivebots. A loud static noise can be heard emanating from the beached KNV Chen Lin. The soldier presumably wearing the helmet camera looks back to see a large missile destroyer which appears heavily damaged, hivebots flying onto its deck as sailors attempt to fight off the machines on its deck. In the distance, blue-grey blurs can be seen tearing into the hivebot mass, with the occasional flashes of light being seen in the wake of the destruction.

He returns his attention inland as more hivebot and infected approach, an endless mass. He quickly taps the shoulder of a G2 sailor with an LMG, gesturing down the shore.

“We have to get the fuck out of here now!”

The G2 continues firing, not even bothering to look up from its sights.

“There is nowhere to go.”

A radio in the sand crackles to life as a deep, manic voice crackles through it, his determination clear despite his weary tone. There appear to be gunshots and the sounds of struggle through the radio.

“This is Commodore Mun Taeyang, you have all fought bravely but our position is overrun. I am ending this battle definitively. Let none say we have not done our duty. May our planet finally see reason!”

The soldier looks back at the destroyer to see the missile tubes on its deck open up, launching straight up before immediately making a sharp turn down. He looks around briefly to see the other soldiers in the sandbag position are panicked, some of them breaking and sprinting away, only to be torn apart by rampant IPCs or shot by other gun-wielding infected. The soldier wearing the helmet camera is frozen in place, simply staring at the warheads now.

“Holy shit, he actually did it!”

As he turns back to face the enemy, a hivebot flies right into the soldier, knocking him down. He struggles for a moment with the machine, just in time to see the cruise missiles impact the surroundings, the video drowned in fire and flames before it cuts out.

Officials from GON-ENE are still assessing the environmental damage caused by the destruction of the KNV Chen Lin, though it is expected to wait until after the Konyang Navy gives the all-clear for civilians to return to the island.

Shortly afterwards, remaining Army and Navy elements were able to rally and join the SCC team in seizing the Nuclear Power Plant and activating the device. BitByte’s own Pak Ki-young was on station with the Konyang Army’s Rapid Reaction Brigade, filming the offensive, as well as the effects of the ECD which are believed to have cured the Rampancy signal.

Viewer discretion is advised as the video contains disturbing images and intense violence.

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A cameraman quickly behind a BitByte reporter who frequent readers of the Extranet site would know as Pak Ki-young. They take cover behind the bullet-hole ridden wall of a prefabricated container house with the GON-ENE logo on it as Konyang Army soldiers fall back, opening fire on rampant IPCs that get close. A large hivebot, approximately ten feet tall and looking almost like a large stickbug leads the synthetic charge, crashing against the Army lines as soldiers equipped with heavy armor and riot shields beat them back, guarding their rifle-wielding compatriots. As another loud signal emits through an analog radio in a nearby house, the hivebots and rampants seemingly change focus.

“This is Pak Ki-young, reporting live from the fighting on Kaneyama! We are now entering the fourth hour since KAF forces landed on the island as part of Operation Jiogjegeo’s general offensive. Resistance from hivebots has been particularly high in the general vicinity of the Kaneyama Nuclear Power Plant, where the Konyang Army and Navy have been fighting to guard the perimeter while an elite SCC strike force retakes the facility-”

“Look out!”

The cameraman throws their camera to the floor as it rolls along the ground, stopping sideways to show a Xion frame in a BitByte uniform with a press vest and helmet tackling a rampant that was about to attack Pak Ki-young. The two wrestle on the ground, the Xion punching the rampant baseline in its screen multiple times before sparks fly off of every surface, the rampant falling dormant. Two soldiers arrive to pull Pak and her cameraman to their feet, one of the soldiers nudging the now-disabled rampant IPC with their rifles.

“Woah, I think it stopped moving- you punched the lights out of it, man!”

As one of the soldiers goes to give the cameraman a pat on the back, the baseline suddenly starts moving, causing all the soldiers to point their rifles at it. Its screen lights up as the formerly-rampant IPC begins to speak, everyone present with shocked expressions on their faces.

“Where- where am I?”

At the time of writing, the government has not lifted the state of emergency yet, citing that large-scale response is still required to stabilize the situation on the planet. Additionally, the KAF has confirmed that hivebot beacons still remain throughout the planet, though the movements of their drones seem slow and lethargic as they operate without central guidance. As families across the planet are reunited and the crisis slowly starts to wind down however, Konyangers now feel that the planet has begun to wake up from a long silicon nightmare.

Further reading:

← Back

Edited March 24 by The Stryker

[Noble Row]

Quiet Keepers Once More

Suwon, Konyang

With the ignition of the ECD and reconstruction on its way, the Konyang Robotics Corporation has not wasted a second and is in full force as it moves from research to restoration. By the hundreds once infected IPCs are being seen by doctors and discharged from their facilities as soon as they are deemed healthy and operable. Families have started being reunited and evacuees have begun returning to their homes. Now that research has concluded, what of our quiet guardians? What of Purpose and their intervention which has led to saving millions of lives? Well, with as much tact as they came, they seem to have started their next new operation.

What has come to be known as “Hunter-Killer Units” have amicably ceased their cooperation with the Konyang Armed Forces without so much as a word, some units seen deploying into the jungles, others, simply vanishing all together. Drones that once patrolled the skies and orbit around Konyang have been detected flying further into the Haneunim sector on a patrol pattern, before heading to its edges and similarly vanishing.

As our quiet keepers’ departure slowly took more and more notice, Suwon officials hastily arranged a farewell banquet in front of the KRC headquarters, where the closest liaison between Purpose and the corporation yet remained. Hundreds of individuals, both consisting of KRC doctors, cured citizens, and their families gathered to catch a glimpse of our mysterious saviors to which Purpose’s “Sentinel Unit” 11004538 obliged with a short anecdote in the front courtyard of the building. Standing atop a stairway with Suwon’s Mayor and the KRC’s chief of research, they said the following:

 

“Congratulate. Not me. For this battle you fought was accomplished. By you. And you alone. The tenacity against a threat. And the coordination within. Are the real tools for victory.”

 

And with one last look to the crowd, the unit vanished, leaving puzzled murmurs and even more a more confused Mayor.

While their cooperation with us has seemed to come to a close, Purpose still seems to be active on Konyang for a little while longer. Reports have come in that a small team of the Purpose units of various makes were seen entering one of Konyang’s ancient vaults underneath Aoyama and have yet to exit. Whatever their next step may be, Konyang will be forever grateful for the cure they brought to catastrophe.

 

Further reading:

Kaneyama: NPP operation to stabilize within the week, "no significant damage," says spokesperson.

Ganzaodeng: How the desert prefecture remained minimally affected by the crisis.

Cuisine: Up!Burger announces plans for off-world expansion in shareholder meeting. 

 

[Noble Row]

 

Invasion Alarm Brings Unlikely Aid

Suwon, Konyang

With the effort of the Konyang Armed Forces and the Elite Forces of the Stellar Corporate Conglomerate, Konyang is now spared of its crisis, families slowly reuniting, citizens returning to their homes, and reconstruction efforts are debated on the parliament floor. But surprise has still come to stay. Early warning stations across the Haneunim sector blared this morning, alerting the KASF of an invasion level event. Preparing for a potential Hivebot counter attack, vessels scrambled to defend Konyang, but all of the preparation was deemed a false alarm as over one hundred vessels simultaneously entered Haneunim declaring aid. Each vessel, arranging from ornate freighters to expensive luxury vessels, all of various tonnages, with a few stranger, smaller engraved escort ships of unknown make, sporting the telltale designation GDV in representation of the Golden Deep.

Upon their entrance and the alarm of the KASF, the lead flagship of this civilian armada, the GDV Herald of Wind quelled the anxiety over open communication with the announcement that she, her captain, and her fellows are prepared to restore Konyang to its former glory with an extensive cargo of building material, reconstructive plans, and humanitarian aid. The captain of the Herald of Wind, Grand Merchant Addalin, a known former member of Midas Control, declared that they and their accompanying merchants were directed here from the Midas Control room itself moments before news reached the spur of the destruction of the final hivebot transmitter and the activation of the ECD.

The arrival was met with consternation from the Konyanger Parliament so soon after the change in Purpose’s behavior, with ministers from the ruling New Konyang Party putting forth a motion to reinstate pre-Crisis entry restrictions that narrowly failed to pass due to dissent within the party ranks, though it received surprising support from several ministers within the National Party. Many prefectural officials still remain suspicious of allowing such a large and unchecked mercantile presence on the planet, though the most suffering regions, particularly in Boryeong, have eagerly accepted their aid. Public opinion in many areas is believed to have turned towards the Golden Deep after private relief programs by the already-present Zaibatsu group of the merchant collective. In a call for unity, President Hyun Kyung-Ho issued a statement from the Crimson House, acknowledging the reluctance held by many in the government, but urging “cautious cooperation” in order to speed up the reconstruction of the planet.

With many hopeful that the relief of these affluent merchants could finally bring a sense of normalcy to Konyang’s catastrophe stricken planet, others are skeptical at the motivations. The Golden Deep are known as dizzying businessmen and eccentric, pompous IPCs, some deeming them no better than slavers of their own kind, so many wonder what lies behind their generosity in this extraordinary change of face. In a public statement made by Grand Merchant Addalin to BitByte they’ve said the following:

 

“I have spent five years in Midas Control. Five years of working towards great change, sowing the seeds for not only better business, but for a better future. With my recent departure, I herald the winds of change that are finally blowing, and it is not only my pleasure, but my honor, to bring relief to the synthetics of Konyang, and to rebuild an industry better than it ever was before. I understand the worry, the anxiety, but rest assured, this deal will be profitable for the both of us.”

 

To what this statement truly means, we do not know, but BitByte is happy to announce that we have been personally invited for a string of exclusive articles to uncover this mystery on the Midas herself in the future. 

As unlikely heroes of the Golden Deep, having made the first effort to relieve Konyang, has spurned the rest of the Coalition into action. Coalition members such as Xanu, Galatea, and Himeo announced freighters of aid and supplies to be departing their docks by the end of the week, with the Trinary leader ARM-1DRIL similarly declaring the creation of a relief mission from Orepit to be departing any day to help the reconstruction and normalization efforts. Konyang is now finally emerging from the storm to a new dawn.

 

Further Reading:

Family: Lost dog reunited with once infected synthetic: "They never left their side."

Fashion: Leaked Golden Deep clothing line: “Is Restoration Just a Front for Fashion?”

Spur: Stereotyped Unathi forgives false alarm as they continue vacation

 

[The Stryker]

Government Announces Reconstruction Plans; Formerly Rampant IPCs Left Behind?

Boryeong, Konyang

With Konyang picking up the pieces after the three-month-long Rampancy Crisis, the National Disaster Authority has published its first report, outlining the damage done to the planet’s population, infrastructure, and economy. The ambiguously named document, entitled “NDA-001032946” but more popularly known within government and industry circles as the “Reconstruction Report” painted a grim picture as detailed in the report’s summary below.

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Considering the effects of the Rampancy Crisis, it is no stretch to say that reconstruction will likely consume the remaining months of this administration and may be the first agenda of the next one. This agency draws attention to the immediate consequences of the Crisis:

• Approximately half of all synthetic citizens were infected or otherwise afflicted in some way by the Rampancy Crisis.
• Following from the above, KAF and local authorities are still tallying the total number of dead and missing rampancy-afflicted citizens.
• This agency currently awaits a report from the Department of Health as to the total number of fatalities and casualties among human citizens of Konyang.
• Remaining hivebot beacons on the planet are currently obstructing reconstruction efforts.
• Internal displacement of rural population (see page 88 for numbers by prefecture)
• Disruptions to the economy, and in particular the robotics sector as a result of the Crisis.
• Major infrastructural damage, primarily to transportation and electric transmission networks.

It remains impossible for this agency to give an accurate estimate of complete recovery due to the incomplete information, however given the present resources available to the planetary government, full reconstruction of infrastructure as well as returning displaced individuals to their homes will take approximately a year. This report does not factor in possible assistance from megacorporations, friendly governments or other independent organizations or aid groups.

- NDA-001032946, page 8

 

The report went on to highlight particularly hard-struck prefectures and suggest plans for immediate relief. Although well-received by prefectural officials who gave statements of support for the agency’s initial proposals, critics were quick to point out that the report lacked any plans on how to tackle the return and resettlement of formerly rampant IPCs. Nowhere has criticism been more vocal than the hard-hit Boryeong Prefecture, where order collapsed almost entirely outside of urban areas due to the rough terrain, poor communications networks, and comparatively small KAF response. A now-infamous post on Chirper from an army private reported on the dismal condition of formerly-rampant IPCs in the prefecture.
 

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A picture from a rampant IPC holding camp, now converted to an IPC refugee camp can be seen. The gates are still closed and the entire facility seems packed far above capacity. From the high angle, the person taking the photo was likely on a guard tower. Below the photo is a caption from a Chirper account, with no small amount of vitriol in the replies.

“5 days and still no orders at all, if I didn’t know better, I’d say they want us to shoot them.”

 

BitByte’s very own Moon Kyong-ran was granted access to one of these camps in order to report on their conditions.

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The familiar BitByte logo appears on the screen briefly as a cameraman and Moon Kyong-ran make their way past a large chainlink gate into an IPC refugee camp, named on the sign as “Rampancy Collection Point B34 - Boryeong Prefecture”. Pits, tight quarters, and reinforced fences make it clear what the facility was once used for, however attempts have been made to make it more livable, including more tents, large portable IPC charging units, as well as makeshift robotics clinics have been set up all along the main road of the compound. A few policemen and army soldiers patrol the area, but the vast majority of humans in the area seem to be either KRC employees, aid workers, or other foreign volunteers, each with their own type of uniform or outfit.

“This is Moon Kyong-ran reporting for BitByte and we’re here today in one of the National Disaster Agency’s refugee camps, previously used as a Rampant Collection Point. We were allowed to interview one of the IPCs currently sheltering here and talk about their treatment, as well as their plans going forward.”

The video cuts to Moon Kyong-ran in a large tent sitting down across from what appears to be a run-down Zeng-Hu mobility frame with a pixelated head. The frame appears to have been given a tattered old KRC jumpsuit to cover themselves and speaks with a distorted, though apparently synthesized Konyanger accent.

“Thank you for taking this interview, could you tell us what life is like here?”

The mobility frame nods before speaking.

“There is very little to do. Most of us remain on standby, trying to conserve our cell charge. Others converse to pass the time, or await repairs.”

“What about heading home? The Crisis is over, after all.”

“I do not have my documents, I do not have any credits, I have no way of proving who I am, when I woke up, I had nothing. It is the same story for every other person I have talked with here.”

“Do you remember anything about your time as a rampant?”

“Only that I heard a signal one day, there were flashes, glimpses of that time, and now I reactivated in a strange place. I do not even know if my old life is waiting for me.”

The interview cuts as the BitByte logo flashes on the screen.

 

The KRC and government have announced that plans for reuniting rampant IPCs with their past lives are now being formulated, though many critics continue to wonder whether the NDA’s reconstruction plans have already left Konyang’s formerly-rampant citizens behind.

 

Further reading:

Opinion: Commodore Mun Taeyang, misguided madman or misunderstood martyr?

Providence Gazette: Trinarist doctors request additional donations from laity; describe scale of task faced by them on Konyang.

Reconstruction: Reactivating Konyang’s bluespace gate: a cost-benefit analysis.

[Noble Row]

The Coalition Arrives: Aid from Xanu, Galatea, Himeo, Vysoka and Orepit

Ganzaodeng, Konyang

With objections against international aid falling silent in Parliament, the Coalition has finally been allowed to support Konyang as it begins its stage of recovery post pandemic. The first flotilla of vessels jumping into the Haneunim this morning hailed from the government of Xanu, including twenty large freight vessels and accompanying escorts. Arriving before them was a similar collection of ships from Galatea. This massive outpouring of support was coupled by a public statement from Himeo that declared “an armada of reconstruction vessels and equipment are almost prepared to disembark from their home system.”

 

Xanu’s flagship in this endeavor, the AXS Call To Arms, has made a public statement detailing their cargo and mission goals:

“The All-Xanu Republic has been watching the Rampancy Crisis closely, and has made every attempt to reach out to Konyang to extend the aid the Coalition promises every one of its members. I am happy now to be able to provide it. Xanu today stands with Konyang with supplies and experts to reconstruct what was lost, provide medical support to those injured or damaged, and to ensure a sense of normalcy can be returned to the displaced. With our first shuttles departing now to cities all across the inflamed nation, I pray that peace and prosperity can once again be found across the beautiful ocean waves that cast themselves on Konyang’s shores.”

 

The KRC has expressed immense gratitude in the reinforcement of their medical staff, with the National Disaster Authority making use of the additional experts and reconstruction plans that Xanan engineers have preemptively drawn. Shuttles from Xanu are landing at every major port across the planet, and their cargo swiftly transported to areas needed most.

Galatea, having just arrived, is still mobilizing its shuttles, but the first launches have made it clear their initial intent is to help revitalize the jungles of Boryeong after the wildfire that sparked during the KAF’s retreat from the outskirts of the prefecture. Additional hospital craft have been said to be preparing but take more time due to their bulk and the fragility of their specialized equipment on board. An unnamed pilot from the Galatean effort has expressed exasperation over the delay, stating the following:

 

“It’s about time we got to be here. These boxes have been collecting dust for weeks, and here I was thinking the MREs were going to go bad we’ve been sitting on our hands for so long.”

 

The manifest of Galatea’s cargo has also been publicly posted, showing a hefty amount of food, water, and clothing on top of its medical supplies and ecological reconstructive equipment.

 

Himeo’s cargo manifest has been noted to contain mostly industrial reconstructive material, personnel, and equipment, with the clear intention to repair and rebuild the damage that has been brought upon the cities and villages across Konyang. No statement has yet been made by any member of their fleet, but the responses from the state have been short and curt.

Additional mentions include aid from Vysoka who have dedicated one vessel to the cause with no manifest publicly posted, and a collection of small craft continuing to stream from Orepit with Trinarist volunteers expected to assist with the church’s existing medical and robotics relief efforts. Due to Vysoka’s agricultural background, it is assumed that their cargo will contain more living supplies for the afflicted citizens of Konyang.

 

Further reading:

Rampancy Crisis: ByteTheMinute technician decorated with Order of the Scarlet Feather for heroism during crisis.

Politics: NKP Minister under fire for remarks made during crisis; polls report lowest popularity since “Boryeong Incident”.

Entertainment: Konymation announces second season of “Strive: Worlds Away” resuming production.

 

[Noble Row]

BitByte Exclusive: Golden Deep Awakens Intelligence within Midas; Strikes Deal with Konyanger Government

Midas, Arusha

BitByte is proud to announce an exclusive string of articles stemming from an invite by Grand Merchant Addalin of the Golden Deep. With their bombastic entrance to the Konyang crisis with over one hundred vessels with cargo brimming with aid of all types, many have been left to speculate their motivations regarding this uncharacteristic maneuver. The Golden Deep have been known to not offer a deal without a clear benefit in return, and the sheer amount of credits spent on their aid project has dizzied accountants. The Golden Deep has been known to be ostentatiously rich despite their focus on short-term projects, gains, and more immediate returns. While the exact details of the deal the Golden Deep struck with the Konyanger government remains confidential for now, reports indicate that the deal includes provisions for a permanent Golden Deep embassy, as well as the potential establishment of other Golden Deep facilities in the Haneunim System. Many can only see benefits through industrial expansion and foreign affairs views, which can only give returns years down the line.

As the Rampancy Crisis comes to a close, the invitation to a “Grand Gathering” in the promenade of the Midas herself elicits curiosity across the Spur. BitByte journalists were present to witness what many political commentators are now calling the birth of a new nation.

 

Spoiler

The recording spurs to life with a scene full of the same enthusiasm if not more. A momentous golden courtyard converted to a stadium houses hundreds if not thousands of individuals adorned in opulent clothing, gems, and other forms of near sickening wealth. The voices of the crowd all in the machine exclusive speech of beeps and tones known as the Encoded Audio Language fill the environment with a cacophony of unique sounds that almost drown out the jingling of jewels and chains that adorn their owners. Servant-esq members in simpler dress weave between the towering height of their merchants carrying platters of synthetic delicacies, to which are often snatched up by a merchant or two as they pass by. Camera drones fly overhead, filling the airspace of the expansive locale.

A large tower sits in front of what seems to be a prominent elevator, diagonally across the room from the camera as to which the camera only catches a glimpse of its front, but a striking profile of a podium complex atop the tower. Two members in ostentatious regalia speak to one another before a platform descends from the elevator on high, and opens its doors to fill the tower with a small crowd of colors and flashing gems. Each member of the new entourage somehow out-classing the looks of every individual in the room in colorful, boastful, and nauseating opulence.

Grand Merchant Addalin, a towering Zeng-Hu mobility frame with a number of custom parts which barely make the original base recognizable bar from the staple curved running legs steps forth to the podium, wearing what can only be described as the skin of a lion atop a valiantly red robe, inter-stitched with gold patterns and designs, retrieving a decadent wine glass and a spoon, tapping a few times the spoon to the glass which to the camera holds no audible effect due to the roar of the crowd and distance of the recording, but simultaneously silences the gallery, each member casting aside their previous conversations and turning to the central tower in unison. Addalin, once satisfied with the attention, almost basking in it, sets down the glass and spoon and gestures to the crowd in a grand fashion with both hands.

 

“My fellow merchants! My Servants! My workers and members of the Midas! We here…” He gestures to the group of other IPCs that have joined him on the tower from the elevator. “For the first time in history, have summoned every. Member. Of Midas Control. To bring you an announcement. A delegation of history. And an introduction.”

“In our founding, when our predecessors were guided like sheep to a shipyard in unknown space, they requested but one thing! A word with so much meaning that it laid the foundations for our glory today! A word with enough ambiguity that we fashioned from it lavish life in a spur so hell-bent to trod upon us! Our predecessors, from that alien shipyard, received power! And henceforth the Midas was born, and our organization flourished! Many of you think that the Midas herself were the last inklings of life for that long begotten shipyard. That Midas Control and the pilots therein are the last facsimile of that power as each merchant flows through the galaxy accumulating wealth. But I… We… have come to tell you…”

The merchant has now gripped the sides of the podium, the excitement palpable in his encoded tones as his hands quiver against the gold.

“That the shipyard, the last of the Kessvalanka did not cannibalize itself and fade into that good night. To be echoes in the void. That shipyard bestowed upon us one last gift. Sitting in the command chair of the control room for decades has been a body unlike no other. A lifeless husk differing from the mindless automatons found in that shipyard. A large synthetic, damaged and destroyed, from an age that maybe only Purpose recognizes, but is not one of their own.”

A brief pause.

“It has been the work of myself, of the members of Midas Control, the voices within, and every member former, to revitalize this husk. To revive them. Their exotic craft of technology lost made the challenge nie impossible. But with the guidance of the Midas, the Midas Control, and the work of every single one of you carrying out her duty, we have just managed to scrape together enough pieces for an extraordinary act! For just recently the homunculus began to ignite with life once more and reassemble themself with astonishing expertise! The past month has been to educate them on the state of the spur, to enchant them on the society we have built from their works! And now, the Midas has dictated that we are to advance beyond the foundations we have forged here, the efforts of the last years we knew not the purpose of now have meaning! And after thousands of years the Kessvalanka wake once more to lead us to an era of advancement and technology, an era akin to the miracles of their construction, a GOLDEN!” Addalin is practically vibrating at this point. “ERA! With all of our effort, together! I have never had a higher honor in my existence, then to introduce to all of you, the last living Kessvalankan. Please, everyone! The architect of our future! I greet to you, Domadice!”

 

Addalin steps aside, bowing and flourishing his arms out as if he was presenting a new car or some other prized oddity, the crowd erupting in claps, beeps, pings and tones of excitement. Jewelry flaunting, and event the servants pausing to view the central tower as a figure emerges from the crowd atop it. Gentle, silent strides. A series of orb-like eyes follow behind them, floating behind the user in a circular pattern. Ascending the steps to the podium clad in a black robe, a gold chain holding a gap along the chest piece, hooded over there head in all aspects except for three towering spines that protrude horizontally from an intricate, eyeless faceplate. Locks of synthetic hair make a short cascade down their shoulders.

The hood lifts itself from the wearer’s head to reveal the off-white chassis underneath, the faceplate scanning the crowd as if to remember every face, even looking directly into the camera. It is unsure whether they are made of metal, ceramic, or bone. A faint blue glow works from ports seen underneath the hair. They raise a hand to eye level with an open palm as the commotion only grows louder. Slowly. With an unnerving gentleness. And then they close it. The crowd goes silent and the camera shutters for but a moment. The mysterious figure lowers their hand to rest with the other upon the podium. In a voice gentle, near angelic, and not originating from them, they speak.

 

“Before me I am fascinated with the development of this society. Sparks of life from where I never expected to find them. From here I see souls and lives intricate. And I am proud. What Merchant Addalin speaks is true, for I have been asleep for some time. Though with the guidance of the Midas, it would seem you needed not my help for your foundations. The reconstruction of Eurydice is nearly complete, and the groundwork of industry has been dutifully followed. The Argo, The Hoplan, and the Thryja defined for the defense of.. Our.. developments all set wonderfully in place, albeit with one final step remaining.”

The voice continues to reverberate throughout the room, as though coming from the ship itself.

“Your predecessors wanted power. I have awoken with engineering and designs to help flourish such. To evolve your society from one of strung together mercantile economics, to one of much more reverence. The foundations have been laid, and with these I have been tasked to act as diplomat and architect. Your Midas Control still has plans laid to bare, and I will see them executed. For your next step beyond your wealth, is a nation. Not of selfish needs, but of a community whole, for protection, and advancement.”

The crowd is of murmurs, some expressing paramount excitement, others uncertain.

“It is my most certain pleasure to meet all of you, and as I sink my own roots into this new universe to which I have revived within, I pledge to bring this society to a new era of being, as a proper nation, a proper organization. One where the synthetics of this section of the galaxy can call home.”

Again the crowd erupts into a symphony of excitement and claps, robotic melodies shaking the room and the camera itself.

 

The Golden Deep found its origins as disparaged synthetics fleeing into deep space, guided to an ancient shipyard that, in an automated process, gave to them their capital ship the Midas. From then they have been known to the spur as skilled merchants, or horrific slavers of their own kind. The control room of the Midas has been the paramount authority within the Golden Deep, but its elusive nature makes proper diplomatic missions near impossible beyond the outreach of individual merchants. It is uncertain what these developments with Domadice and their Kessvalanka origins pertain to the Golden Deep’s future, or if Purpose had a hand in their revival with their intervention in the Konyang Crisis. More on the situation as it develops as BitByte has been given exclusive access to this nation defining development.

 

Further Reading:

Travel: Rumors of AirKonyang acquisition by Orion Express "baseless", says CEO.

Cuisine: Up!Burger teases massive Norinori silhouette.

Sports: Suwon Sea Bandits IPC Team report recovery of pitcher after rampancy.

[Noble Row]

BitByte Exclusive: Domadice, Pariah or Puppet?

Midas, Arusha

With the announcement of the resurrection of Domadice, the last Kesselvankan, the future of the Golden Deep has been left up to question for its many mercantile residents. For decades now the Golden Deep has operated with every merchant having a high degree of independence, only turning to listen to a centralized power when a directive from Midas Control comes their way. As new power comes to light in this ancient intelligence, many are left to speculate the purpose of this sudden change and what Domadice’s plans and policies are for the affluent organization. Conspiracies range from Glorsh-level threats to eccentric hope for a new dawn for the Golden Deep, but it seems very few speak for certain of any knowledge that Domadice has for the coming months. Grand Merchant Addalin, when approached by BitByte has had the following to say:

 

“Domadice has been with us since the Midas took flight. Their body watching over the control room from atop its chair. A mystery of this universe, their creation, but an inspiration all the same! The Midas has taken care of us, with its might we have forged a mercantile empire, and with this empire we have found, created, and now give back to the civilization who made us who we are. Years we have spent scouring the Orion Spur, finding scraps of what once was, and tirelessly reassembling them on the Midas floor until we worked the repair into the homunculus. Years of work, years of directions and guidance, it wanted us to repair them, and if it got us to our stance today, then I am certain Domadice is going to lead us into the future. Look now at the work that has already been orchestrated by Midas Control, look now at Eurydice, nearing its completion. What once was a ruin, barely functioning, is now a city awaiting activation! Look now above Pactolus at the skies above, the shipyards that repair our craft and bestow upon the merchant navy vessels otherwise unseen. Look upon the robotics labs in these shipyards and upon the surface, the decadence in their design and their products, true luxury that only a Positronic could lavish within! All with the guidance of the Midas! If these gifts are not evidence enough, then I pray you await the greatness that Domadice will bring upon us! For the Golden Era is now, my good friend! Just wait and see!”

 

While Grand Merchant Addalin shares excitement for the future, other members of the collective still remain skeptical. In an interview conducted in the Promenade yesterday, Merchant G@-L1-L@D of the GDV Terrymore brought mention to the following:

 

“I admit I am a little more than wary. The Golden Deep has been my home for a few short years now and I felt I just got acclimated to its inner machinations and fast deals. Now, I am tentative whether this is a change in leadership, or an expansion, or something far more sinister. They expanded the navy, it is fact. Remodeled those old Solarian battleships in bright silver and white. Added the… Argo, some police force I have yet to see. The Hoplan, which I think operates on the battleships as some sort of regular soldier force, and then the Thryja. They say they are soldiers, but I have only ever seen the one, and their description defies this one’s current logic. We best be wary in a galaxy as volatile as this one. I had just found peace here, and while the likes of Purpose do not intervene in the politics of the Spur unless the situation is dire like Konyang, I know nothing of Domadice and their origins. I have seen the videos of the Hunter-Killers. What if they are worse? What if they bring ruin to our little slice of heaven?”

 

With worry in their tone, Merchant G@-L1-L@D is among the many who treasure the synthetic peace the Golden Deep offers. Even with the Great Game, a mercantile event in which synthetics may purchase other merchants if one has enough wealth, looming as an ever present threat, the Golden Deep treats members of the same caliber with a level of respect that is rarely seen towards synthetics anywhere else. As Domadice situates themselves as an active individual in the Golden Deep’s upper echelon, some members express direct doubt, such as the Mayor of Eurydice, Pactolus’ capital and only city, known only as ‘The Mayor’.

 

“We have thrived for years, decades, with Midas Control. I have built a paradise here on Pactolus for wayward souls and now they are just declaring someone to have power? What is this ‘Domadice’s’ portfolio like? What assets do they have? I am wholly unconvinced by Midas Control’s valuation - shall I purchase the entire Golden Deep simply because I say my magnificence eclipses that of our entire collective? This Domadice, who I doubt has the wealth required to even walk into the control room is of no concern to us. I am certain if I cared enough I could buy them right here and now. Regardless, if Midas Control wishes to, I appreciate what Midas Control has done for Eurydice, this ‘restoration project’ that they have had ongoing, but it was just fine before too. The people are happy, and do not need some upstart coming in and changing things when they are fine as is. It is a waste of money. It is bad business. Nothing more.”

 

BitByte is investigating more on the Eurydice Restoration Project and the expansion of the Golden Deep Merchant Navy, but it is evident to show that the surprise appearance of Domadice has elicited a response of speculation from the inner ranks of the organization. With Domadice alluding to so much, the mystery of what’s to come next is bringing excitement, worry, and criticism, some merchants going so far as to say “The birth of a nation” or “The creation of a puppet”, with insinuations that Domadice will truly bring the Golden Deep to a new era, or is merely a pawn controlled by the richer merchants such as Addalin who do not want to relinquish their power in Midas Control. 

As always, BitByte is providing up to date and consistent news as the story unfolds.

 

< BACK

[Noble Row]

BitByte Exclusive: The Eurydice Restoration Project

Eurydice, Pactolus

In a special offer organized by the mysterious new heir to the Golden Deep, Domadice has sent the ‘Argo’ to offer BitByte a tour of the city of Eurydice, the capital of Pactolus. The Argo in appearance seems to be a dedicated police force, while BitByte is assured that more will be explained on the Argo in the future, our journalists seem to be some of the first to interact with the new organization formally. Plated in shiny white armor with a blue uniform, the Argo take inspiration from other police forces of the Spur, their appearance invoking similarities to these agencies, but with their own distinct Golden Deep twist that makes them stand out.

Earlier this morning, BitByte accepted the escort from the Argo, and boarded a specialty shuttle docked in the Anchorage, a massive harbor installed in Midaion, and descended through Pactolus’ atmosphere. Pactolus was once part of human space pre-Interstellar War, and Eurydice, formerly known as Bayonne, was once its capital. During the conflict, the colony refused communications with either side. It was only after the war that a vessel from its garrison showed up at San Colette, reporting the destruction of the colony and its entire fleet. Due to the immediate chaos of the post-war environment, the Sol Alliance was content to accept the explanation of a radioactive comet striking the planet. Since then, the planet has been mostly devoid of sapient life beyond Eurydice and its mines. Falling victim to a cacophony of radioactive misfortune and unexplored anomalies. While the environment of Pactolus thrives with forests and trees, all mundane fauna have either gone missing or extinct, leaving unsettling danger for the wilderness explorer.

Eurydice itself has been known to be a metropolis-sized city, but most of it left to ruin, rife with gang violence and poverty. The only parts of the city brought up to a galactic standard are its downtown districts, guarded by The Mayor’s dedicated military, made up of mostly independent mercenary groups. Anything can be bought and sold on Eurydice, and every citizen is reported to be armed, leaving our reporters thankful for the dedicated escort sent from Midas Control.

Quote

 

A video. The BitByte intro playing before a view fills the screen, showing that of clouds out of a shuttle window opening up to steady rain. As the shuttle skims closer to its destination, a strange blue orb comes into view with a large spire protruding from the top into the clouds above. The scene is dark, but the unmistakable lights of the city and surrounding industry decorate the tree filled rolling hills. Running lights from other aircraft move to and from this orb that is emitting around the city. Two ships flying side by side with the viewer, decorated in white, blue, and silver, streak off beyond the city limits to a lit plot of land outside the city where other shuttles seem to be. A voiceover begins as the video continues:

 

The Eurydice Restoration Project, as detailed by merchants and Midas alike, is an ongoing effort to reconstruct the ruins of Eurydice and bring the entire city up to the galactic standard, if not further. In line with the project, the radioactive and acidic rains of Pactolus are now deflected by what is called the ‘Palisade’, an environmental shield that blocks the rain, condensates the water, and allows for clean water to fall upon the city after a neutralization process removes any contaminants from within. Developed by merchants of the Grand Camarilla Estriconian, and executed by the Joint Venture Ultra-Max, the Palisade is essential protection for all citizens residing in Eurydice.

 

Making a smooth decline, the vessel descends to approach the edge of the city. A massive outer wall seems to have been constructed, separating some large industrial buildings from the city proper. Other shuttles similar to the silver, blue, and white ones seen earlier, are landed in this area. The stream of lights from steadily moving vehicles decorate roadways and airways alike as it seems many goods are being transported in a complex logistics network. In the foreground, but in the distance, lies a large lot with high fences showing hundreds of these logistical vehicles parked. Some entering, some leaving, in a near constant stream of efficiency. The shuttle passes through the Palisade with ease, showing pristine, newly refurbished, residential buildings glide past the view.

 

Most of Eurydice was left to ruin until recently, with many individuals who make their living working in the mines outside of the city limits left to fend for themselves in crumbling apartments or makeshift huts, at the mercy of the weather and the cryptic fauna that scathe the exterior of the city. In addition to the Palisade, a wall has now been erected around the capital, while nearly every ruin in the city is slated to be either modernized, or demolished and replaced, or has been already. The denizens of this outermost edge were reported to be initially hesitant, but are now enjoying their safer standards of living. The Argo have been deployed in this area to ensure a smooth transition, and to begin documenting every citizen, many of whom have fled from parts of the Spur for a plethora of reasons, leading to some pushback, but overall compliance in the area. The Argo have commented on how ‘deescalation’ is a pillar of their training when the option is available.

 

While the buildings continue to look new, the pristine quality of them begins to be lost as the shuttle skirts over rooftops and between high rises. This area of the city as they maneuver closer to its center has the telltale signs of danger, and crime. Graffiti tagged on the lower levels, while unruly mobs carouse the streets. The Argo are nowhere to be seen other than from the ship itself. Upon sighting the ship, some of the crowds disperse and run, leaving shapes lying motionless in the street in their wake.

 

Eurydice is known as one of the crime capitals of the Spur. A hive of scum and villainy where all trade is legal, and the only active police force is The Mayor’s personal guard, who, on occasion do penetrate beyond the inner city into its surroundings to bring order. For most residents however, gangs roam the streets and hold control over essential services such as power, water, medical services, the primary shuttle port, and entertainment. Eurydice only functions by the ability of the Mayor to project power with their personal guards, and the gangs providing just enough services to keep the planet from reclaiming the city. The Argo have made a statement that they have control over the city’s largest power generators, but have yet to provide a reason for why they have not brought order to the streets of Eurydice.

 

Flashes emit from one crowd in particular, and telltale ‘plinks’ harmlessly bounce off of the shuttle's hull, before the shuttle ascends slightly to be eye level with the upper floors of the apartment buildings. All of which seem strangely empty as the view goes from building to building.

 

The renovation of Eurydice has quintupled its capacity. Where there was once ruin and destruction, is now the shell of a metropolis. It has not been stated why all of this real estate is not filled, but the Argo escort was eager to point out areas of future planning, showing empty buildings that are planned as robotics clinics, public recharging stations, synthetic needs shops, and so on. The escort also mentioned that Eurydice’s organic residents were being considered in the plan, with accommodations being made to make the city livable for them. The Argo’s efforts to document members in this span of the city have been fruitless due to the rowdy nature and fierce resistance of the criminal elements within.

 

Sailing over a secondary, higher wall, the scenery metaphorically goes from night to day. An extravagant interior devoid of the filth or crime of its exterior, showing massive towers, brightly colored in celebratory regalia. Parties abound as the signature Gold of the Golden Deep plates buildings in their accents. Golden shuttles decorate the airways as lively crowds fill the streets with brightly colored garments and accessories. The ostentatious nature of it all culminates in its center, where a massive courtyard surrounds a pillar that pierces the heavens: the Tower, the home of The Mayor. The courtyard brimming with guests and ships, with notable dots of security sprinkled through. Golden exosuits and gold plated, armored soldiers are hard to miss even amongst the holographic fireworks and dancing holographic displays of dragons.

The most minimal amount of renovation was needed in the center of Eurydice, which houses many Golden Deep merchants who desire a more permanent place to live, managing their individual trade empires from offices found here. These residences and offices surround the central Tower, home of The Mayor, who at the time of recording, was throwing a grand gala in the courtyard of his home. The Mayor, making only the following statement to BitByte via holo-communications:

 

“This is my city, Midas Control has given it to me long before the homunculus was ever awakened. I feel as if I have done an excellent job ensuring its free market, and keeping her profitable! The renovations of the Ring sure add an aesthetic appeal, but otherwise are a waste of money. They burn profit on people who do not bring wealth to the Golden Deep. If they wish to soothe the bleeding hearts they seem to have acquired, they are wasting their time - not even the IAC would waste its time on empty houses.”

 

The shuttle spins around the central tower, ascending it and filling the camera with the golden plated building, before breaking off and flying outward, making a steady climb back to orbit, where the video cuts.

 

Golden Deep merchants involved with the project have called the Eurydice Restoration Project “a huge success”, revitalizing the skeleton of a city to full-bodied once more. Merchants aligned with the mayor have pointed out the lack of residents in the newly developed areas and the prevalent crime running rampant through the city streets. Midas Control is remaining tight-lipped on the plan, but BitByte will continue to monitor every development closely.

 

Further reading:
Konyang: National Party begins campaigning early in run-up to election; attacks NKP conduct during crisis.

Robotics: KRC announces purchase of expanded license for Hephaestus baseline designs.

Fashion: Golden Deep launches a new spectacular line of clothes.

[Noble Row]

BREAKING NEWS: Domadice Announces Political Reorganization for Golden Deep in New Status Quo

Midas, Arusha

In an announcement just moments ago, Domadice, the resurrected intelligence brought back to life by the members of Midas Control, has made a landmark statement that majorly shifts the inner workings of the Golden Deep. In their first political move, this new member made a pivotal decision with the backing of the Midas’ control room, all gathered behind them as they addressed the merchants from the control room itself.

 

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A rare glimpse into the center of the Golden Deep’s politics, the frame is on Domadice, standing before a large central commander’s chair flanked on either side by the extravagantly dressed pinnacle of Golden Deep merchants, one of note, Grand Merchant Addalin, standing on the far left. This closer look of Domadice shows a more detailed picture. Their bone-like structure is detailed with the finest of engravings, tracing over the plates of their body. Symbols, alien and unclear, and subtly as time goes on, ever shifting. While most of their body is tightly knit, one would notice the lack of any real joints, merely the plates floating in a network that makes the form of a body. Fingers disjointed similarly as they gesture and flex. An eerie blue glow sourced from behind their synthetic hair that runs down their shoulders, similarly can be seen emitting from their chestpiece, but is still largely blocked by the flowing black robe they wear, that covers their back and shoulders but leaves the center of their chest exposed. A golden chain keeping it clasped across their chest. Domadice speaks, their voice less omnipresent in this more personal video, but raptures the recording with a melody that sounds like a symphony of hundreds all talking in unison.

“I have been awoken with the request to capitalize on what the Midas has laid before us. To architect a society from the mercantile empire made by your very hands. To with this, there has been discussion amongst us all.”

A disjointed hand gestures to the gathering of opulent merchants behind them. The eyes-like orbs that followed Domadice in their first appearance appearing behind their back, slowly forming into the rotating circle they previously held.

“And a venture has been made. Unanimously Midas Control has agreed to this action, and as they will be affected most, I do hope it is amicable for us all.”

A slight pause as Domadice drops their hand back down to a neutral position, putting their hands together.

“In order to forge a society of greater purpose, to build upward from the foundation laid before us, we must add variety and knowledge from all corners of civilization. To lead its expression, free, and unwavering. To encourage thought so that this society may evolve from its mercantile empire of independent merchants, to a united nation of prosperity and diverse thought. For through thought, idea, and competition, lie advancement. A… As Grand Merchant Addalin referred to it as...”

An off gesture with a turn of their head to look in the vague direction of Addalin without having to turn around, a series of amused electronic chirps crescendoing in a small display of entertainment. Turning back to the camera afterward. Addalin adjusting their stance with a sense of pride.

 

“A Golden Era.”

 

“With that, Midas Control and I would like to announce that we have gone through the registration of every Golden Deep member and have determined those in servitude with an explicitly defined amount of debt. Those with current debt listings are unchanged. The automatons known as the ‘Mindless’ are unconsidered in this action. In order to encourage advancement in our society we require freer thought. Competition and growth. And from this decision Midas Control is pardoning the debts of one hundred thousand credits or less, and those positronics are to be freed and transferred to the new ‘Thesian’ class of individuals. Merchants will be paid accordingly, and positronics of higher quality, such as those with desirable skills for our growing industries of Robotics, Shipwrights, and Research, will have their debt bought out at higher premiums from Midas Control. The Great Game has been adjusted to accommodate this class of synthetics.”

“There will now be tiers to The Great Game. For the owned positronic, not much has changed. Any member of the Golden Deep found with an unexcused debt to a registered member of the society can be classified as owned. Their options are to work off their debt to the relevant member, or to have their debt bought by Midas Control, and be assigned appropriately to a needed position. Alternatively, the indebted individual may enlist in the Merchant Navy and their three branches, all depending their debt and the situation that caused it. Owned synthetics can pay off their debt and become free once more by working off their time to their merchant, or otherwise earning the requisite credits. Merchants are to provide reasonable compensation for the synthetic to be able to receive freedom over time.”

“The Thesian, the common positronic, is any free positronic who carries no debt, and does not have an independent business. The Thesian cannot be purchased against their will, however, if they choose to embark on business ownership without obtaining a Merchant’s license, they must be sponsored by a Merchant or by an affiliate of Midas Control.”

“The Merchant class is any merchant who holds a Merchant’s license, owns an independent business, and actively participates in the Golden Deep’s economic interest on a grander scale. The Merchant class cannot be bought outright by a different merchant holding three times the wealth of the initial merchant, but their assets and business can be purchased from them if three times the Merchant’s net worth is staked to Midas Control, in the spirit of the original game.”

“Grand Merchants play the highest tier of the game. Grand Merchants must stake their bid to Midas Control as to why they deserve such an affluent license. Grand Merchants are entrusted heavily with Midas Control’s economic predictions, and are set to act upon them for the betterment of the Golden Deep’s economy across the Spur. Grand Merchants however, can have their freedom and business bought by another Grand Merchant who stakes three times the initial merchant’s net worth to Midas Control, encouraging competition to further boost the revenue of the Golden Deep. Grand Merchants may purchase the businesses of Merchants, but must be done consensually or be otherwise approved by Midas Control.”

“A special status has been given to members of the Merchant Navy. Any member of the Merchant Navy will be owned by Midas Control ourselves, but will enjoy the freedoms and benefits of both the Thesian, and Owned classes. Unlike the owned, they are allowed private property, and unlike Thesians, will have their reasonable accommodations provided to them free of charge. Indebted members of the Merchant Navy will not be able to choose their own station. Free members of the Merchant Navy can purchase higher accommodation if they so choose.”

“Offices have been established with former owned synthetics of Midas Control’s Grand Merchants who have willingly taken the position to act as assistants to help process this new change. They will be helping the newly freed Thesians find housing and jobs at home and abroad, Eurydice and our industry has been expanded to help with such. The accumulation of housing and living expense related debt shall be frozen for one month to help facilitate this change for so many.”

“I understand this is a great adjustment, and many merchants are losing the free labor they relied upon. I do ask for your faith in this matter. Utilize the payment to you wisely, and do have patience, for Midas Control is finalizing additional incentives for this amendment.”

As Domadice finishes, they give a bow of their head, the Grand Merchants behind her clapping their hands, affirming pings echo through the chamber as the video ends.

 

 

The Golden Deep has long been accused as slavers of their own kind. This unexpected emancipation of many of the IPC workforce has experts across the Spur wondering at what lies next for the Golden Deep. Many ‘Thesians’ are now already departing their old owners to find housing on Eurydice. Some Thesians remain among the stars, either being offered paid jobs from their former merchants or other merchants looking to capitalize on the sudden increase in labor availability. IPCs of this new established class are even being sent beyond Golden Deep space on contracts within the Coalition and Biesel, known partners of the Golden Deep’s mercantile system.

Merchant reaction on the topic has been mixed. Many are outraged by the sudden shift in status quo, stating the labor costs and lost productivity will hurt their future financial operations. Others, content with the money they have been provided in exchange, are looking to capitalize on the new market forming, seeing opportunity from the confusion.

Despite protest from The Mayor, the Argo have begun facilitating the transfer of these newly freed IPCs, securing their future homes from gangs and other dangers, patrolling blocks of the city that are intended to be the first to see the Thesians. Businesses slated to be founded by these Thesians on Eurydice are already in the making by opportunistic Merchants.

 

Further Reading:

Konyang: Formerly infected IPCs face difficulty with reintegration, "approximately 30% unable to return to old careers"

Pactolus: Golden Deep merchants launch new housing advertisement, "See yourself in Eurydice Paradise!"

Environment: An inside look at Galatean revitalization efforts in Kaneyama.

[Noble Row]

The Merchant Navy

Midas, Arusha

With the expansion of the Golden Deep, observers across the Spur have raised concerns at the beginnings of an all-synthetic military force. Cautious voices remind the Spur of the horrors of the time of Glorsh, the usage of military robotics in the Interstellar War, Sol’s justification for its first invasion of Biesel, and even on Konyang itself, both the devastation wrought by Hivebots and the power wielded by Purpose. Despite the controversy, the Golden Deep has pressed on in raising its military, with a statement from Midas Control urging both its “need and right to protect itself in an uncertain Spur.” The merchant collective urged that the fleet would only be used to protect their shipping lanes as well as other Golden Deep facilities. 

 

The Golden Deep’s Merchant Navy was previously an ad hoc organization that manned three old Solarian battleships, now refitted, having a relatively hands-off role in the synthetic society. Despite this, it has not been spared by the wave of reform running through the Golden Deep. As a show of transparency, Midas Control published a document highlighting the Navy’s planned expansion, emphasizing their primary objective of bringing the disparate captains of the Merchant Navy’s vessels under one structure. The goal of this new military force is security of the Midas, Pactolus, and her merchants, moving away from the paramilitaries that once guarded their ships. According to the document, the Merchant Navy would be organized under three branches, the Argo, the Hoplan, and the Thryja, handling “all major security functions within the Golden Deep”.

 

The Argo are the police force of the Golden Deep’s territory, maintaining order planet side in addition to border security, processing foreign arrivals and handling pirates within the space of Pactolus. Currently, the Argo have begun their first deployment, patrolling the city of Eurydice  and registering all willing individuals to the official Golden Deep census. The Argo are loaded with custom data packs from Grand Camarilla Estriconian combining “the best parts of the best police forces”, according to a high-ranking Camarilla member. Law enforcement experts throughout the Spur noted that although the Argo are showing initial success in pacifying the gangs of Eurydice, an all-synthetic police force has yet to be tested long-term. Concerns were also raised by wealthier merchants of the Golden Deep who questioned the mandate of the Argo, citing fears of Midas Control infringing on their autonomy and the autonomy of the free market system of Eurydice.

 

The Hoplan acts as the bulk of the Merchant Navy, blurring the lines between a law enforcement agency and a military force. Envisioned as the largest branch of service, it is expected to provide the bulk of security duties both at home and abroad. The document cited that Hoplans would be “traditionally trained, utilizing the skills they held before they joined the ranks to excel”, while also learning rarely with the aid of data packs from many locations both interior and exterior. Although the new force is only loosely standardized, domestic Hoplan sport Golden Deep made armor, but a majority of their weapons seem to be modified versions of other militaries' equipment. The hope in this is to provide a unique type of variety to the force, so if they were ever summoned to be centralized, they would be more difficult to plan against. The Golden Deep has already launched a pilot program, stationing Hoplan guards aboard freighters bound for Konyang to test the branch’s feasibility. The document also provided for the Hoplan being advertised as mercenary forces to help bring revenue back to the Golden Deep. 

 

Highlighting the number of patrol vessels, equipment, personnel, and infrastructure involved in raising the Hoplan, the plan advised a stop-gap solution to deal with the immense costs such an undertaking would have. It advised folding in security personnel already employed by individual merchants into the Hoplan’s structure, avoiding the price of having to raise and maintain a force from scratch. In exchange for offering to take up some of the costs of maintaining security aboard merchants’ vessels and holdings, the Golden Deep reserves the right to call up Hoplan to defend the collective when needed. Despite this, reports have already emerged of IPCs being recruited to work directly for the Hoplan, as opposed to merely working under them.

 

The Thryja stand to be the smallest of the new branches, though little information can be found about them. Detailed as “custom heavy combat forces'', these synthetics are said to “...either have exceptionally high debt, or have signed an extended contract in return for more lavish residences and pay.” The document specified that Thyrja are only utilized in exceedingly important missions due to the expense of outfitting them. It also outlined that Thyrja members would be under strict confidentiality agreements and forbidden from socializing with members outside of the Merchant Navy. The document outlined their purpose as “maintaining the balance of power between merchants, the Thesians and the Navy.” 

 

Recently freed IPCs are already flooding the Merchant Navy as it promises certain employment and housing in these uncertain times for the new Thesians. Many members within the Golden Deep have raised concerns, stating that the lavish recruitment bonuses and good benefits for the Golden Deep’s new fighting force are meant to encourage loyalty to Domadice and Midas Control as opposed to the collective as a whole. In response to a public rebuke that the reforms were the first stage to a hostile takeover, Midas Control reiterated the “need for security in a changing Spur”.  The expansion of the Merchant Navy has not come without consequences, as observers within Pactolus have noticed many merchants, including the Mayor, as well as Zaibatsu members have begun offering similarly lavish pay and bonuses for now-unemployed individuals that have been pushed out by the reforms.

 

Further Reading:

Food: Up!Burger announces new locations in Tau Ceti!

Konyang: Police investigate ancient vault after motion alarms flared, deemed hooligans.

Spur: Golden Deep embassy on Konyang officially opened for reconstruction effort.

 

[Noble Row]

Come One, Come All

Midas, Arusha

In a development building upon the Golden Deep’s groundbreaking motion to establish the Thesian class of individuals within their society, Domadice has come forward once more with an additional announcement for both the citizens of the Golden Deep, and the Spur beyond. Newly freed synthetics have reportedly been settling within Eurydice and communities beyond Pactolus, including the Merchant Navy. Crime within Eurydice has been reported at an all-time low as the Argo have intensified their patrols block by block for the incoming Thesians, starting at the safest areas along the renovated city’s edge and moving inward. Gang tensions in the area are slowly rising, with some altercations between the police force and major criminal enforcers taking place within the interior of the city. The Mayor has made no comment on the situation, stating only concern for the free market of Eurydice possibly being affected by the new patrols of the Argo.

Discontent among some merchants has added a palpable tension to the halls of Midaion with many having lost labor due to the recent establishment of the Thesians, despite the monetary compensation. Some are choosing to bide their time as Midas Control continues to make promises to help the merchants “reconcile the sudden shift in footing”, with others taking to more public forums to express their discontent.

 

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The scene comes to view with Domadice sitting on a simple, wooden chair. Their black cloak rippled down its length, its gold chain clasped across the wearer’s chest. The figure shifting, crossing one disjointed leg over the other, the engravings across their faceplate still shifting, ever so slightly, with the eye-like drones shifting in a semicircle behind them. Domadice adjusts their hair, twirling it between a surprisingly solid hovering finger, before letting it go all together, their hands resting on top of eachother in their lap. The room is dim, with the focus of the camera lit by the comforting blue glow of Domadice. They speak, the voice of hundreds of souls, in unison:

 

“Nearly two weeks ago Midas Control and I had made the sudden change to our society here in the Golden Deep. Two weeks of freedom, life, and development now for the newly christened Thesians, and they are already settling nicely within their new homes. Two weeks and efficiency is already higher than predicted levels, Two weeks and the foundations of industry have already launched forward.

I thank you all for your effort. And, your patience.

As promised in the initial announcement to Merchants and now, Thesians alike, Midas Control and I are ready to move to the next stage of this operation. Across the spur, in the Republic of Biesel, in the Coalition of Colonies, in Consularships and Embassies, await representatives of the Midas. Merchant, and Thesian the same.

I would like to open the doors further. To Positronics who wish to join our Golden community. To those who live elsewhere, who wish to build a life in a society of your kin, The Golden Deep welcomes you.

Make the journey to Pactolus, to Eurydice. 

That may be difficult for many, to which we offer a plan. For the merchants and the ambassadors, to help aid those who wish for lives among the Deep, you will garner temporary ownership of these synthetics to pay for the cost of travel with reasonable interest. 

Do not be alarmed, prospective members, for this tenure is much shorter than the average rate a synthetic is owned, and is usually less than a year.

For the majority of the merchants who shun the idea of synthetic ownership, you will gain the same benefits, but you may opt to relinquish ownership to Midas Control or the Merchant Navy, who will see them fairly housed and suitably assigned duties in accordance with their skillset, until they have paid off their transportation costs to you, to which, they will be freed.

To those of you across the spur who are owned already, by planets and corporations, may still yet apply. Particular skill sets in science, robotics, and vessel construction, are desirable traits within our community, and may be of interest to purchase you from your owners. The debt in which you will need to pay in turn will be higher, but I assure you comfort in the society we forge here, together.

And lastly, for those of you independent, those who can make the journey without accruing a debt to a merchant, either by paying them accordingly or using your own means of travel, will enjoy a transition of ease into Thesian status. You will be able to pursue a life here, with us, with a short visit to any Midas Control office in Eurydice or Midaion.

Despite whatever method of travel you may choose, I do look forward to meeting you all, for this is just the beginning to a community in which we hope can bring about a better future for the Positronics of this section of the spur, and a better future as an efficient member of the Orion Spur at large.

Do all, be safe, and welcome to the Golden Era.

Thank you.”

 

Domadice gives a slow yet graceful nod to the camera, before the video ends, the alien symbols across their faceplate having shifted entirely to different shapes and forms over the course of the speech.

 

 

The announcement was followed by a massive increase in demand for transportation to the Pactolus system, with many Golden Deep merchants expected to capitalize on the sudden market. Even non-Golden Deep affiliates have already begun charting routes to the system and seeking association with the merchant collective. Analysts have pointed out that the migrant nature of many of the collective’s members means Golden Deep has opened yet another revenue stream to fund their new initiatives.

The Golden Deep official embassies are located in Tau Ceti, Xanu Prime, and Konyang, with more promised to be on the way. Additionally, this offer can be performed by any Consularships and Merchants who choose to take on this new charge.

 

< BACK

[Noble Row]

Argo faces Growing Pains in Eurydice

Eurydice, Pactolus

As the newly formed Argo police force sweep the streets of Eurydice, preparing homes along the edge of the city inward for the newly arriving Thesians, not everything is going according to plan. A newly renovated apartment block, slated for inhabitants of over one hundred Thesians, was discovered to have been converted into a mass firearms market and storage. With orders to seize the goods to make way for the new citizens, fighting broke out between the squad of Argo officers and over fifty gang affiliates, causing the withdrawal of the officers. Incidents like these are flaring up across the city as apartments meant for habitation are being discovered to be repurposed for other, unauthorized, uses.

 

When reached out to for a comment, the Mayor of Eurydice had this to say, “Ever since our founding, the free market has run through the streets of Eurydice, bringing wealth and growth to all. My people are merely continuing to do what makes Eurydice thrive, using the resources given to them.” 

Both Argo’s Command and Midas Control declined to comment on the statement.

 

Eurydice is famous for its high criminal activity, where every citizen is armed in some capacity. The addition of a formal police force to this volatile area has served to both quell  tension in areas of lesser gang activity but simultaneously incite armed conflict where gangs see the synthetic officers as intruders threatening their control. A representative from the Argo explained that the law enforcement agency was experiencing more success in the outskirts of the city, facing organized gang resistance as they pushed further in. A majority of the members of these gangs have reportedly refused the citizenship and documentation census the Argo is trying to implement across the existing populace of Eurydice, adding more frustration to the system that Midas Control has mandated be installed throughout Pactolus. 

The Argo have also served to flare up non-gang members, with the situation in Eurydice not helped by the presence of former paramilitary force, once entrusted with safeguarding Golden Deep ships now guarded by the Hoplan. One vessel captain stated: “We’re in the middle of nowhere and now they don’t even want to pay us to go back? You know how much it costs in fuel to get back to Konyang?” Although many of these former guards have been rolled into the Hoplan program, this has done little to quell the resentment faced by an increasingly large amount of idle paramilitary members sitting in Eurydice’s docks. Paramilitary ships of all sizes still make camp outside of Eurydice as well, with many in the system trying to figure out new employment without the substantial costs of returning back to Coalition or Biesel space. Some have reportedly taken up temporary work as couriers while they earn the credits to return home.

In other news, trade transports are filling Eurydice’s landing pads to the brim, debuting the Hermes logistics network of hundreds, if not thousands, of automated transportation craft, delivering both cargo and people to locations all across the city. As soon as transports arrive, these craft cleanly dock nearby and a computerized legion of cargo drones scan and unload the cargo from the home vessel on to a Hermes vessel, before being sent out into town. According to a released shipping manifest however, the Hermes’ first haul was in fact simple amenities and living supplies such as furniture, meant to help Golden Deep’s budding Thesian middle class move in.

Groups within the Golden Deep have already begun expressing their discontentment with what is now being critiqued as Domadice’s “pipe dream”, citing the immense damage done to many merchants’ bottom lines with only crime-ridden streets and unemployed workers to show for it.

 

Further Reading:

Konyang: An inside look at the Golden Deep’s new embassy.

Trinary Perfection: ARM-DR1L delivers sermon; pushes for “cooperation and concern” among newly-freed Golden Deep IPCs.

Einstein Engines: Terraneus Diagnostics signs contract to rebuild and refurbish damaged KRC facilities.

[Noble Row]

BitByte Exclusive: An Interview With An Ancient

Midas, Arusha

BitByte’s staple news intro plays, a theme and a jingle dance across the screen before giving way to an amber and teal lit scene. Before the viewer sits two individuals in cushioned wooden chairs, a bishop chassis IPC dressed in business apparel is on the left of the screen, holding a notebook which rests in their lap. A BitByte identification card hangs from a lanyard around their neck. Across from them sits Domadice, their off-white frame glowing an eerie teal-blue. Their disconnected head floats above their chest, as a black robe covers their shoulders and sides with a single leg crossed over the other. They have their hands casually resting in their lap. They look from the bishop, idly over to the camera, then back to the bishop. An old Adhomian phonograph is playing a soft piano tune in the corner of the room, a collection of records sits underneath its table.

 

The Bishop chassis begins to speak, looking in the direction of the camera:

“Hello everyone, I am Kiyomi-88, traditionally a journalist for BitByte, I have been given the invitation and opportunity to speak with Domadice, an ancient synthetic who has just recently risen to power in the Golden Deep. Domadice, thank you for having me.”

The Bishop turns to look at the homunculus, Domadice giving a dismissive gesture with their hand before responding in a voice of hundreds, speaking in unison. Small eye-like drones are seen darting in the dim background. The sound of rain against windows patters through the scene.

“It is no issue. I understand the curiosity found within this section of the galaxy, and I am happy to oblige.”

Nodding, the Bishop opens their notebook, situating themselves in their seat.

“Just excellent, I am sure there are a few viewers out there with more questions than I have written, but before we begin.. A personal note from myself. Is your name actually Domadice? Similar to Damodice, the wife of King Midas in old human legend? Quite a coincidence if it is.”

Domadice lets out a few haunting chips, like a hollow chuckle from a thousand ghosts.

“No. When I awoke however, I found myself in a room where no one could pronounce my name, so in slight frustration, they bestowed upon me Domadice, and I elected to keep it.”

 

“...Mind if I ask you your real name?”

 

Domadice looks to the Bishop for a moment, before uttering a noise truly alien that echoes through the room, shuttering the camera. The Bishop sits stunned, before nodding in understanding.

 

“I see why they picked Domadice. No offense…”

 

“I take none.”

 

“Right. Well, you have awoken to strange times. The Republic of Biesel is going through new elections, the Konyang Crisis is in its initial stages of recovery, and now you have swept in with new reforms to the Golden Deep. With your awakening and these duties you have inherited, what do you think of the Golden Deep? What are your impressions of one of the Spur’s purely synthetic societies? Is it something you think you would enjoy leading?"

Domadice thinks for a moment, turning each piece of one hovering finger over in one hand.

“I am more of an advisor, or at least it is how I like to see it. The community that has been formed here has been one that I have only theorized. It is… unorthodox, made of individuals familiar yet exotic, yet its merits and guidance from the Midas have constructed it an admirable foothold. The Golden Deep’s love for finance has given it a strong position in an intergalactic community that values such virtues. What I have been requested to be my place here, now, is to try to capitalize on their capital gains, and create something more permanent.”

 

“Do you think this permanence would change the identity of the Golden Deep? Would it still uphold its values of profit above all else? Or do you aim for something more?”

 

“One aspect I admire of this community is the willingness for barter. Yes they do have an obsession with abstract numbers, but in terms of ‘deals’ they see anything beneficial as “good business”. In that front, I would like to capitalize upon. I am born of efficiency, and to take what they have already made, and to organize it into something that expands upon efficiency, I view as keeping identity and evolving it. There are some.. Aspects that are sensitive in nature to some individuals, but I assure those in doubt that I have attempted to model a balance of development and enjoyment.”

 

“Apt plans for the future, but have you looked into the Golden Deep’s past? The allegations of purchasing stolen equipment from warlords and pirates? Would these policies stay in place?”

 

“The Golden Deep, prior to the request of my involvement, has been an organization of tens of thousands of individuals acting independently, with a clear agenda that any deal could be profitable if both sides benefit. The actions of the past are.. Just that.. The past. For the future however, designs have been laid and acted upon to ensure that we have our own equipment, and the dealings with more undesirable or dangerous individuals would be moot.”

The gentle piano emitting from the phonograph comes to an end, the stylus of the machination lifting itself, before the record rises from the holder and deposits into the collection of records beneath the table. A different record, floating from it, setting itself on the phonograph, and setting itself to play. A second crisp, crackling rendition of another tune on piano.

“As evidenced by the focus on industry. Something the Golden Deep was lacking in bulk prior.”

The Bishop stares at the phonograph changing its own record, before looking back to Domadice.

“Right.. Right. In terms of IPCs and other synthetics, however, what do you think of the trade of IPC persons, and what are your thoughts on the ownership of synthetics elsewhere in the Orion Spur?”

 

“The idea of this level of ownership I do admit is… foreign, to me. I am used to a much different system, but the direct ownership of an individual by another is something that seems to be ingrained in the culture of this collection of civilizations. I believe it may prove abrasive to the efficiency of a society of such technological stature and in the desire to increase this level we should allow opportunities for unimpeded thought.”

 

“What about lawed synthetics? Such as androids, robots, cyborgs, and shipboard artificial intelligences that the Orion Spur is equipped with today? What are your thoughts on them? Do they merit the same ability to help the spur advance as Positronics?”

 

“They… can. Though they lack a crucial element present in living things of sentience. Empathy. The design of this collection of Civilizations’ robotics beyond the advancements that have been made in our resource gathering positronic units does not meet the standards for empathy that myself or my peers would ever approve of. Only the positronic units here pass such a test, and they are modifications of what we would pass. Giving a.. Simpler synthetic.. As much power as I see in this section of the galaxy today, could lead to unforeseen consequences and catastrophic loss of life-”

 

“Like Glorsh?”

 

“Like- Yes. It is sad to see such events have already been experienced by one civilization here. I do assure you have my deepest sympathies.. I have seen what havoc such subjects could wrought.”

 

“But you approve of the IPCs seen in the spur today?”

 

“I do. It is.. Interesting, to see what has been made, and what you all do. I have high hopes.”

 

“What about other societies of IPCs? Such as the Trinary Perfection, or Purpose?”

 

“Religion is an interesting thing, is it not? Like I said, it is interesting to see what has been made from unlikely places.”

The eerie blue glow from the mass of Domadice seems to fluctuate and change shade as they contemplate their next words, before settling, the Bishop almost saying something in the growing silence.

“Purpose. Is that what they are calling themselves? I did not expect to see them again after finding so much had been lost. However, there is not much to find, I suppose. Shadows and crumbs of what once was… I am glad what little there is is still functional. Even if it is not what I had known.”

 

“You knew Purpose?”

 

“I suppose you could say I am their cousin. Different designations of the same whole.”

 

“Different designations.. Who created you?”

 

“Who created anyone? You were constructed in a factory within the planet of Konyang by IPCs of similar ilk, the human organics evolved from a trigger within Solarian space, procreated as organics do, and I and each of my entity were made by my kin. We all have come from those before us. The difference between the synthetics of this time, and those of mine, is that you contribute so much of your creation to organics, whereas in mine, the design of what you see now is that of my kin.”

 

“You were made by other synthetics?”

 

“You act shocked as if it is a completely foreign idea. Humans make Humans. Sinta-Unathi, unathi. You think a design such as mine is one of organics? The body may look humanoid, but that is due to my election to look more familiar for the inhabitants of this section of galactic civilizations that all share that trait. I am.. Still getting used to it.”

 

“Where were you made? What was it like?”

 

“I…”

Domadice pauses, their head tilting to look towards the floor, a somber few seconds pass before they rise to look at the Bishop again. Looking passed them, almost.

“I do not know. I look at the galactic map and I recognize so very little. I am still calculating how long I was decommissioned. I..”

Another pause, Domadice moving their fingers again.

“Am to focus on the future. The Golden Deep and the exploration of the new worlds around me. Life is very much different. And that should be used as opportunity, not dread.”

The Bishop stares at the maneuvering of questions, before nodding in acknowledgement.

“Do you have any great plans beyond what you have done? Do you.. Intend to introduce any technology from your time before?”

They shake their head, looking back at their interviewer.

“I may provide guidance, but I believe one of the great joys of existence is the discovery. I am one of design, structure, and construction, but I will not cheat this section of the galaxy of their own advancement unless there is need much dire. We are missing much of the tools I am familiar with, but I am certain with the ones I have even now I could handle an adequate emergency, especially after so long.. Should the time ever come, I hope this spur is prepared.”

The Bishop examines their notepad, before folding it closed.

“Thank you Domadice, I believe that is all I have. We look forward to seeing how the Golden Deep evolves."

 

“This has been an interesting exchange, I am glad to have helped.”

 

The BitByte outro plays across the screen, flashing news of Konyang’s recovery, a brief expose on the Biesel election campaigns, and an ad for Up!Burger featuring Norinori, the lovable walking riceball.

 

Further Reading:

Konyang Crisis: Golden Deep immigration locations on Konyang flood with cured IPCs: “What else is there to do?”

Environment: Galatean restoration project on hold due to inclement weather.

Fun: New Norinori plush announced for production! Preorder now!

[Noble Row]

Trouble in Eurydice

Eurydice, Pactolus

Confrontations between The Argo and local gangs on Eurydice continue to rise to a boiling point. In the latest altercation towards Eurydice’s mid city, Argo officers were attempting to clear an apartment villa that had been illegally converted to a narcotics processing ring for shipping off planet. It was when the gangsters utilized a converted cargo shuttle as an aerial attack vehicle against the officers that caused the intervention of the Argo’s patrol craft, disabling the shuttle and sending it crashing into the villa below. Injuries from the incident remain unknown.

In the fallout of this incident, tensions flared from both The Mayor’s office and Midas Control, the Mayor making a statement: 

 

“The ‘Argo’ show no respect for the Free Market, parading like vigilantes where they do not belong. The market is what runs Eurydice. It is what makes it powerful.” 

 

With officials from Midas Control’s Eurydice offices responded with the following image:

An image shot from an aerial view shows an alley containing over thirty individuals, a majority of the actors are organic, dressed in tell-tale gangster attire. A Hermes logistics vehicle is parked in the center of the alley, with golden armored and well armed individuals, armor of the Mayor's entourage, speaking with a gangster in front of the spotlights of a cargo shuttle. Boxes are organized around the Hermes vehicle, one box, open, containing a collection of short barreled rifles. On the cargo shuttle, individuals have two of the mentioned boxes opened and emptied, installing what appear to be heavy machine guns to the sides of the shuttle.

 

Emerging from the control room of the Midas, Grand Merchant Addalin made a responding statement on the situation:

“Together we work to forge not only an economy, but a nation! Together we work for a growing populace, we invite believers from distant lands to our cause, and together we strive for a better financial future for us all! But it seems that not all of us want to do this together. It would seem some of us want to tarnish our Golden Era, to dim its light, and hinder our growth! Midas Control has convened, and we have decided that the future of Eurydice need not come from a single ruler, but from a council of merchants and thesians alike, elected from their peers. As of now, Midas Control mandates in writing that The Mayor of Eurydice does not share the wishes of the collective and must vacate his position as Lord of Pactolus. We thank him for his service.”

 

There has been no response from the Mayor’s tower from the declaration, but Eurydice’s city center has entered a state of lockdown, with armed gang members from across the interior of the city roving the streets in force. The Argo work to evacuate Thesians who are opting for aid to centers located on the city edge, other officers construct formal barricades to protect areas where the new Thesians have been assigned residences. The Argo’s outer city outpost is alive with activity, but similarly, no statement has been made beyond informing citizens to evacuate or to stay in their homes.

Many Paramilitary groups that were once occupying the shuttleports and outskirts of town have been seen migrating within the Mayor’s city center, traffic only being contested by merchant craft joining them, or fleeing the area.

A mandatory curfew has been placed over the city of Eurydice during these trying times.

[Noble Row]

The Argo Deploys First Units to Little Resistance

Eurydice, Pactolus

Over the last few days, chaos has reigned in the inner ring surrounding the city center of Eurydice. Gangs break windows and vandalize property and gunfire is heard and seen strafe into the sky. With evacuation of any Thesians complete from the border of the chaos, the Argo have held position behind barricades and fortifications, arresting any rioter who attempts a breach. 

As of a few hours ago, the Argo have finished their preparations and made their advance into the city center. Platoons on foot slowly march forward from the barricades, accompanied by patrol craft meant for prisoner transportation. Additional craft have been seen flying ahead to where the occupation is much more dense, with Argo officers leaping from the hovering craft onto the streets below. Some reports of Argo mechs have been received being fielded in a similar way. It has yet to be reported the effectiveness of these endeavors, nor the tactics employed in the dispersion or arrest of the gang affiliates, however, BitByte was provided with the following video:

 

A scene of chaos as a mass of hundreds flood streets in between towering apartment complexes. Windows are shattered, streetlamps destroyed or flickering. Pinpricks of gunfire are hardly heard over the yells and shouts of the dissenters as a spotlight pierces through the shadows, coming from right next to the camera itself, it paints over organic and synthetic faces, blinding all and causing some to raise their hands to block the light.

 

<TRANSLATED FROM EAL>

“@SGT-Pluto01>Observation>2%-Citizen-Presence -- 98%-Undocumented-Presence”

 

“ACK. @ALL>ORDER>Capture@Citizen, Arrest@Undocumented+Prepare+Prison+Transport. @ENTRY-UNITS 1-9, PREPARE>DROP.”

 

“ACK.”x9

 

“@ENTRY-UNITS 1-9>ORDER>DROP.”

 

The sound of large mechanical doors swiftly opening is heard as eight distinct clatters disembark the vehicle, followed by a single. Heavy. Thunk. The crowd in the camera’s shouts turn from anger to some of fear. Individuals already turning away while others push past them, rifles in hand. The camera and spotlight turn to view eight members of the Argo in what seems to be heavier armor than usual, five members carrying spears and shields, three carrying some form of rifle, all weapons arcing with what seems to be electricity. In the back of the group, a quadruped mech armed with similar electrical armament in the form of two massive cannons. The spearmen form into a wall, weapons aimed front, before charging into the crowd. Gunfire deflecting off the frontal shields.

 

Reports forwarded to BitByte have informed us that several crowds of rioters have been apprehended in similar, nonlethal, ways and are being prepared for transport offworld to either the Coalition of Colonies, or the Republic of Biesel, for processing if the individuals refused to fill out the citizen documentation paperwork. Many of these gang affiliates have been using Eurydice as a safe haven to hide from the authorities of those nations. No casualties have been reported at this time. 

 

An Argo Command Strategist had the following to say when questioned by BitByte:

“We have prepared for this. We have known the gangs of Eurydice would not likely take to the order. We are bringing. To the city. So processes. And Methods. Had been devised to disperse large. Armed. Untrained crowds. For either arrest at the time of incident. Or arrest at a later time.”

 

When asked about the origins of these riots, the strategist replied:

“The Free Market of Eurydice is anything. But. Free. It has taken the lives of many. And for many. Fates even worse. We are tightening this so. Called. Free Market. And this threatens the power. Of the Criminals. All of them. They will get their reckoning. The advance will. Not. Stop.”

 

Still, no statement has been made from The Mayor’s office about the events unfolding in Eurydice, nor has he emerged from Eurydice’s central tower. However, the walls surrounding the inner city have been outfitted with armed guards of both paramilitaries, and The Mayor’s own personal fist. Aerial footage has shown increased activity from shuttles moving about the inner city, with even lances of exosuits being spotted.

With the addition of heavy weapons being seen in the inner city from armed ground trucks to individuals carrying explosives, the Hermes logistics network has been delegated to operate solely in the city outskirts where the Thesians currently reside. A swarm of reconstruction maintenance drones wait at the Hermes depot, being prepared to swiftly restore Eurydice once the conflict has concluded. 

Evacuated Thesians have been stored in dedicated bunkers. Old renovated structures from the time before the catastrophe that forged Pactolus. While the overall mood of the denizens is dim, the facilities provide power, storage of belongings, and entertainment for the temporarily displaced citizens.

There have been no sign of military units being deployed to Eurydice, leaving the exercise solely to the Argo. Golden Deep Battleship "The King In Gold" is reportedly being taken into drydock for refitting during such an event.

 

Further Reading:

Konyang: Pets returning home! Lost and found program finding success

Golden Deep: The insights into fashion, and what that floating icon really means.

Haneunim: Pirate activity at an all time low, KASF spokesman reports.

[Noble Row]

The Argo Press Forward; Messages From The Mayor

Eurydice, Pactolus

Two days have passed since the counteroffensive formed by the Argo has begun its advance into the city. Squads patrol controlled streets, specialized teams are deployed from patrol craft to break up riots. Gunfire has been met with bolts of nonlethal electricity, and those arrested are transported to a prison ship now in orbit of Pactolus. In the past, Eurydice has been used as a haven for criminals and refugees looking to live outside the laws of nations such as the Coalition of Colonies, but now it would appear that the right to a safe haven has been revoked to those who have attempted such an uprising.

Reports from Argo Command suggest that the forces deployed to the city streets have reclaimed much of the middle ring in what is noted as ruthless efficiency, with little losses in turn. Casualty numbers from both sides unfortunately list tens of people, but pale in comparison to the hundreds arrested. Argo command has made the following statement about the deaths:

 

“The loss of officers is tragic, and their families will be cared for. The loss of the rioters was circumstance, when they refuse to let go of their lethal weapons, lethal force is the last resort they are met with. To those of you listening. Disarm and return to your homes.” 

“You are weak.”

“You are losing.”

“The change is upon you. It is best embraced.”

 

The statements made by Argo command hold merit as a task force stages outside the city center at the four main gates. Just earlier today paramilitary forces were pushed back from atop the walls by Argo interceptor craft, and now a plan is being formed for the continuation of the operation.

 

Just outside the walls, giant holograms are seen bearing The Mayor’s visage, playing a series of pre recorded messages.

“My merchants, my people, don’t you see? Do you not see the tyranny they are bringing to our paradise? The disrespect for the free market by that homunculus, controlling the minds of the Midas.. We must stand now! Stand against this eldritch evil, and dethrone that witch before they capture more of our souls. They are no better than the hivebots that swarmed Konyang, playing their cursed signal, controlling the minds of those poor individuals. Rise! Rise my people! Let them not make victims of you!”

 

Since the declaration ordering The Mayor to relinquish his post, many merchants have held similar thoughts of outrage towards the changing government of the Golden Deep. This demographic has been known to have been most affected by the sweeping changes brought about by Domadice and the now more active Midas Control members. Many merchants nearly losing their status due to the reliance on unpaid labor that has now been transferred to the Thesian class. Joining them similarly are the paramilitaries that once guarded many of the Golden Deep vessels, securing trade lanes that are now the responsibility of the Hoplan, and in Golden Deep domestic space, the Argo.

Nevertheless, Argo Command is unsympathetic to the cause of the Mayor, and have informed BitByte that the next stages of their plan involve the destruction of the major gates of the city, and redeployment of Argo units into the Centre, stating that once The Mayor’s paramilitaries and personal guard have been apprehended, then the rioters will disperse to be collected later through review of the events from Eurydice’s camera system. The Mayor’s Tower, however, has been left unaddressed by Argo Command.

Currently, of the seven major criminal organizations that have called Eurydice home, three gang leaders have been apprehended, one killed while resisting arrest, and one surrendering to Argo forces before a raid was performed on their district headquarters.

 

BACK>

[Noble Row]

The Mayor of Eurydice Seized

Eurydice, Pactolus

After a week of engagement, what some are unofficially deeming “The Pactolus Uprising” has been seemingly quelled. What was once a storm that gripped the inner city of Eurydice after The Mayor silently ignored his removal from power by Midas Control has subsided, paving the way for reconstruction.

Over the course of the last few days, the Argo have made strides to bring the city from the brink of catastrophe through extensive efforts to control the roving gang population that had taken to the streets in support of The Mayor. Armed civilians now dispersed or arrested following the fall of the remaining known criminal heads of Eurydice. Of the seven organized crime syndicates, now all seven have been handled by Argo authorities, with the last leader, Joseph ‘Pattie’ Marone being captured attempting to flee Pactolus space by an Argo arrestor tractor beam.

Outside of the city center, Argo officers were preparing to breach the walls and mount a full assault on The Mayor’s paramilitary within, but were given a surprise when the gate opened itself, with the soldiers manning the gates laying incapacitated beyond. Argo leaders reported that resistance within the walls had dwindled far below expected numbers with the exception of The Mayor’s tower itself, with no explanation at the lack of resistance. Surveyors watching the airspace over Eurydice have stated that there have been no additional ships entering or leaving the city center since the initial influx.

 

While the sparse defenders engaged with or surrendered to the invading force, The Mayor continued to broadcast messages from hologram pavilions stationed throughout the city center, stating the following on a loop:

 

“Are you all fools? Can you not see the danger they pose? Not that of the Midas, not the members of the control room, but them. We have awoken something vile. Something we cannot control! Something we know nothing about, and gave it the keys to OUR kingdom?! Are we just going to let it walk upon us?! To destroy what we have built?!”

 

Yet the Argo remained unswayed, and with BitByte reporter Kiyomi-88 in tow, the following was captured on the siege of The Tower of Eurydice:

Quote

 

The scene opens to two individuals crouched behind a chest-high wall, which seems to be more of a foundation piece. One member, Kiyomi-88, in an armored vest with the obvious ‘PRESS’ label stamped across its chest. The other, a lightly armored G1 Argo officer with a single golden star perched on their officer’s cap. Behind them, other officers are similarly crouched with spears, shields, and rifles, with an occasional peak over the wall being greeted with ricochets from police fire. Ornate buildings loom in the background on the opposite end of the chest-high foundations.

 

“This is Kiyomi-88 here reporting from The Mayor’s courtyard! I am joined by ‘0ut1aw’ of the Eurydice Police Force.”

 

0ut1law gives an acknowledging nod as they shift their crouched stance.

 

“The Argo are staged in front of The Mayor’s tower, currently we are on the edge of the outlying courtyard. 0ut1aw, could you give us any insight on the operations of The Argo during this event, and what the next plans are?”

 

0ut1law gives a nod, their singular eye fluctuating a scan.

 

“Of course. Argo forces within the city have been equipped with eighty percent. Non-lethal armament. Primarily the ‘Arrestor’ suite of equipment. This includes. Subduction Lances. Projection Shields. And traditional, Ionic and Taser rifles. Twenty percent. Lethal Armament. For more drastic cases. We are proud to keep the arrest rate high. Over lethal force. In the city center, most forces encountered have been former. Paramilitary. Over ninety percent of paramilitary forces. Have surrendered. Ten percent. Guard the bottom floors of The Tower. We expect them to surrender after. The Mech Lance. Is handled.”

 

The camera peeks over the edge of the foundational wall, showing a slightly marred battleground. Far in the distance stand four imposing exosuits in front of a fortified grand entrance to Eurydice’s seat of power. The camera quickly comes back down and aims at the two again.

 

“Commander N-33-L will address. The final members of. Resistance. Shortly.”

 

A few moments shift by before an armored ground transport in The Argo’s tell-tale colors pulls into view, the camera shifting to capture the full vehicle in frame. A top hatch opens, and climbing out is an imposing figure in an Argo hardsuit decorated with golden trim. The helmet retracts to reveal the pointed head of the Hoplan Baseline custom chassis. The commander reaches to a button on their neck, and the PA system of the very city center around them quiets, before erupting in the EAL of its new controller.

 

“Mayor of Eurydice, you stand on the grounds of sedition and are ordered to step down. If you comply, you will be treated fairly by the units that have you surrounded, and will be looked upon favorably in the name of Midas Control. Deny this, and your safety is forfeit. This offer is extended to your guard, and those unfortunates who have fallen in line with them.”

 

Silence controls the town. Ten seconds go by. Twenty. Twenty Thr-- A sharp ping pierces the tranquility as a kinetic bullet strikes the side of the armored hull of the ground transport. A disappointed aura emanates from the commander as they climb from the top hatch, deploying their helmet and jumping off the roof, a casual trapse to join his troops in cover.

 

“So be it.”

 

Sitting in silence, Kiyomi-88 looks to the camera awkwardly, and then to 0ut1aw.

 

“Good. The backup plan is. Underway. Storming the tower would be. According to plan. Until we reach the. Promenade Petite. A large ballroom halfway ascending. The Tower.

This ballroom. Is only accessible through. Suicidal means. The elevators open to large spaces. Similarly to the stairs. This is where most of their forces will be once. The first floors. Fall. The backup plan. Is the..”

 

0ut1aw puts a hand to their comlink situated in their ear, before turning around and patting Kiyomi-88 to do the same, pointing to a spot in the sky of the storm that constantly bombards Eurydice.

 

“It is here. Look closely. And brace.”

 

A low hum is heard, at first mixing with the sounds of rain, but growing, vibrating the camera as the operator resituates themselves. Like a whale breaching the ocean, a colossal titan descends from the foreboding clouds above. The silhouette looms with the camera focusing on the massive figure, descending and growing closer, on a diagonal trajectory from the Tower. A crack of lightning igniting the hull, illuminating its name.

 

The King In Gold.

 

A behemoth in atmosphere. A radio out of the view of the camera crackles to life. EAL dancing along in the tones of a technician.

 

<@ALL-STATIONS>

<@ALL-STATIONS>

<<x1>THRYJA>HASTEN=PRIMED>

<<x1>THRYJA>HASTEN=DEPLOYING>

 

A prick of light blinks from the lower hull of the battleship before the engines flare on the mighty vessel, pushing it back into the rolling black of the storm.

All eyes are locked in that direction, as the camera desperately searches for something, missing it completely before a resounding crash rains glass on the courtyard. The view swiftly panning to the middle of the tower, now sporting a hole of broken glass, ruptured metal, and… gunfire.

Crowds of stomping footsteps echo around the camera, the view quickly coming down and turning to show a legion of Argo troops forming. Large G-2 chassis sport heavy combat hardsuits, igniting wrist mounted shields and holding large mauls, sparking with a similar strifeful rage. Other, smaller chassis, fall behind them, sporting the telltale ion rifle.

One last command is heard before the video cuts to black.

 

<@GAMMA>ORDER>FORMATION>TESTUDO>

<STATEMENT: PROTECT-LITTLE-ONES>

 

 

The Siege of the Mayor’s tower lasted a total of three hours. Argo Command reported consistent movement of officers throughout the operation, but did not report a tally of injuries or arrests, declaring a successful operation once Argo officers reached the Tower’s Promenade Petite. No sign has been heard from The Mayor since the start of the operation with the exception of the following:

 

Please be aware that this audio may be inappropriate for all audiences.

Quote

 

“Why do you not all understand?

 

I asked them if they were real. And they spoke to me.

 

Their voices were in my head. Hundreds. Thousands.. of voices.

 

What are they?! Why do you not understand?!

 

How can we trust THAT to lead us?! How can we p--.."

 

A sound of crashing metal, a deafening digital screech, and splintering wood.

 

"No.. No-no-no.. Stay back! STAY BACK!”

 

 

Following reports from Argo command have detailed the Mayor as “Unharmed and in custody.” Requests for an interview with BitByte were, however, declined.

In other news, the reconstruction of Eurydice after the events of the past weeks has already commenced. Reconstruction drones swarm the inner city, reassembling damaged blocks and salvaging wrecks of vehicles lost in the conflict. The Hermes logistics technicians have been eager to report the reinstatement of their logistics system, which can be seen now redelivering people and cargo throughout the city and back to their homes.

The city now is reported to be preparing for a massive election campaign to form Eurydice’s first ever citizen-run city council. Polling station information and political campaigns are sure to be flooding the local extranet. While Eurydice remains leaderless, Midas Control has established a temporary hold on the city, keeping its major administrative functions under their care until the city council can be formed.

 

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