Mendell City Bugle

[Caelphon]

Jargon Ambassadors request mass deportations! 

Several issues have arisen within interstellar relations and internal management as a result of the arrival of a few thousand individuals seeking asylum within the Republic of Biesel. In addition, the Biesel Immigration and Customs Enforcement is anticipating the arrival of many more in the coming days.

As part of its diplomatic discussions with the Republic of Biesel, the Jargon Federation is pushing for mass deportations of these recent arrivals, citing the fact that the primary reason for their arrival [the turbulent political environment] is in fact fanciful, especially after the Primary Election. There has been no additional information provided by the Dorn Administration on this subject. 

“The fact that they are allowing all these people here is just incredible like they are going to have no jobs left for those that live here," said Wei Lu, a citizen of the Republic of Biesel who resides in Mendell City. “We’ve barely recovered from the Solarian Invasion, and they expect us to somehow cater for all those people?” 

The majority of asylum seekers have been detained in detention centres until Congress has concluded the idea of providing sweeping authorizations for recently arrived asylum-seekers. As reported by Law Reporters, President Dorn will address the Republic of Biesel this weekend with their decision close at hand. 

Our team will keep you informed of any developments within the Orion Spur, as well as any other interstellar news. Despite the perilous times we live in, readers, stay safe.

[Caelphon]

Tau Ceti Integrates Asylum Seekers

Tau Ceti officials have reported that Skrell asylum seekers can be granted full citizenship upon enlistment in the Tau Ceti Foreign Legion. This announcement comes days after an unprecedented influx of Skrellian refugees following turbulent electoral results in the Jargon Federation, and officials are worried about what this means for the future of military politics.

“With such a strong number of Skrell now counted among the [Tau Ceti] Foreign Legion, one wonders what this means for Skrell-specific warfare,” said Prefect Mark Ynonnes, “Their psionics are a rather big one.”

In addition, Biesel authorities have reportedly been assigned planet-specific “refugee quotas”, which has resulted in at least one Skrellian family separation. Sentient-rights associations have expressed concern that the future of Skrell in Tau Ceti could closely resemble a militarized satellite population.

“It wouldn’t be unheard of for a marginalized group to be taken advantage of,” said Ynonnes, “Especially with the instability we’ve been seeing across multiple facets of the galactic stage.”

However, some economists are saying that the migrant crisis could bring new industries. Tau Ceti scientific institutes could greatly benefit from more educated Skrell, and some experts are interested in what a new Skrell population could do for their new human hosts.

Reports from various Megacorporations, including Nanotrasen and satellites of Zeng-Hu, have noted increased employment offers within pockets of these Jargon refugees. What this means for the future of Megacorps in Tau Ceti is still up for debate, but more of these Skrell in positions of labour and leadership seems to be on the horizon.

[Caelphon]

Explosion kills dozen; Embassy levelled 

BREAKING - Mendell City officials report that the Jargon Federation Embassy has been bombed by foreign elements. A terrorist attack destroyed the Jargon Federation Embassy located within District One of Mendell City, resulting in the death of  about a dozen, including many Jargon diplomatic representatives. It is believed an early warning from NanoTrasen managed to save the lives of many within the Embassy and its surrounding city bloc.

An asteroid station in Aurora was also targeted in a related terrorist attack, which resulted in the theft of experimental materials; experts are now concluding those stolen materials share similar explosive properties with those used in the Jargon Embassy attack.

“It’s undeniable that this is the work of the rogue faction that held the Aurora hostage,” said Lieutenant Deputy Bernard Summers, “Our scientific investigation team has matched the same classified energy signatures from the theft to this bombing.”

Deputy Summers spoke to the press shortly after the bombing and promised “justice” against those who had conducted this heinous crime.

“Our hearts go out to the Tau Ceti citizens who were unfortunately caught in the crossfire of this foreign attack, as well as the representatives who we failed to protect.”

Tau Ceti Defense Agencies are investigating potential links between the Aurora hijackers and an influx of Skrell refugees. When questioned by the press, Deputy Summers had this to say,

“There is not a doubt in my mind that the terrorists got through our relaxed borders with the refugees. In my opinion, the TCFL has no idea who is coming or going right now.”

The Jargon Federation has expressed its deepest regrets to the diplomats and Tau Ceti citizens but declined further comment regarding terrorist cells within skrellian refugee ships.

[The lancer]

 

Supreme Court Rules Phoenixport Acquisition Illegal

 

A series of legal battles waged by corporate mogul and CEO of NanoTrasen, Miranda Trasen, against the domination of Einstein Engines in the city of Phoenixport, came to a spectacular closure today, with the nine judges of the Supreme Court of Appeals ruling against the solarian megacorporation. A 5-4 vote concluded that the takeover of Republic Interstellar Flight Incorporated, a now recognised shell company set up by Einstein Engines to win the bidding and seize Phoenixport’s corporate assets, was a calculated move to bypass regulations limiting Sol-based companies in the bidding process, and was thus ultimately illegal. This decision comes after months of sealed court sessions, appeals and lobbying as Einstein Engines vied to defend its holdings and dominating influence in the once NanoTrasen-dominated city, the first territory in the Republic with a major influence by a foreign company. The court subsequently ordered that Republic Interstellar Flight Incorporated be released and dismantled, with all corporate assets set up for a new round of auctions, offering no compensation.

 “A fair ruling, showing our justice system is still a stalwart defender of our Republic’s laws”

Commented Mori Takachika, NanoTrasen’s Chief Legal Director on her way down the courthouse’s steps, accompanied by a team of forty six lawyers and legal secretaries. Einstein Engines’ chief legal representative in Biesel Li Dejiang and his team followed after, filing out in an orderly fashion towards the camera crews.

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“I struggle to understand today’s ruling. As a company of interstellar calibre, we came to this nation to offer and perform our services,, in conjunction with uplifting the community of Phoenixport through our charitable donations, only to be thrown out due to the actions of hostile lobbyists and bad faith actors. We have no plans to abandon our fairly gained holdings, and will recuperate our losses..”

The city has been under Einstein Engines’ hegemony since late 2462, creating a substantial rift between them and the other interstellar megacorporations that dominate the Republic of Biesel. The results of the hostile takeover bled into the lives of ordinary citizens who found themselves questioned, prodded and subsequently unemployed had they not conformed to the Einstein Engines’ corporate ideals. NanoTrasen matched the actions of Einstein Engines with reports of checkpoints, arbitrary dismissals and asphyxiating corporate monitoring of personal lives. The ruling has brought with it a dive in the price of Einstein Engines’ shares in the Unity Station Stock Market.

[Caelphon]

Phoenixport Asset Auction Commences

The bidding process for the corporate assets located in the city of Phoenixport has been put together in record time, organised and overseen by the Mayor and City Council with support from the central government. The event is open to all parties, though major players include the NanoTrasen Corporation, Idris Incorporated and a determined Einstein Engines, set to defend their holdings. Subjects of the auction include dozens of public and private companies, infrastructure and other assets, most prominent of them being Selene Shuttleport Limited, Phoenix Telecom, the Selenian Agricultural Bank and the Bateau Shipping Company.

Analysts see NanoTrasen try to purchase the majority of these holdings in an effort to regain control of the city, though issues with the liquidity required for such an undertaking have been made apparent by the meetings between CEO Miranda Trasen and banking magnate Alex Mason at one of Adram Idris’ estates in rural Ashton. While the subject of the conversation is unknown, it’s widely speculated that an agreement for expedient financial support in exchange for further integration of Idris Incorporated in Tau Ceti is in order. Nonetheless, it is indicative of NanoTrasen’s close relation with their new ally.

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“I’m optimistic that the worst of it has been left behind, and that NanoTrasen will reacquire their lost assets within the sector.We are optimistic, now that they can’t play tricks, we are going to take back what’s ours.”

Commented Rook Keller, NanoTrasen’s 71 year old Chief Research Director, present at the auction house. Leading figures include Mio Suzuki, the famed inventor of the Suzuki-Zhang hammer drive, assigned to Tau Ceti to lead the company’s bidding, as well as Getmore CEO Mataji Khatri and their team. Miranda Trasen is rumoured to arrive during the proceedings, while Idris Incorporated is to be represented by Alex Mason. Other megacorporations such as Hephaestus Industries and Zheng-Hu Pharmaceuticals have sent observers without making any noteworthy intentions of serious participation.

[Caelphon]

Final Round of Bidding Concludes, Einstein Secures Foothold

The majority of Phoenixport’s corporate assets have been given out in the three day long auction session, with NanoTrasen Corporation and Idris Incorporated managing to acquire around half of total, maintaining focus on crucial utilities such as shipping, telecommunications, entertainment services and the shuttleport. With this, the corporation’s plan on keeping the city integrated with the rest of Biesel has been achieved, blocking Einstein Engines from turning the city into an enclave, as it was before. On their part, the solarian company targeted the research and media sectors, managing to maintain their hold over the multitude of important laboratories, compounds and offices, securing an important foothold in the city and Biesel.

The day began with the arrival of Miranda Trasen’s motorcade, accompanied by close relative Nathan Trasen in a surprise visit. Wearing a conservative white shirt with a black suit jacket, the NanoTrasen Chief Executive Officer entered the building without offering any comments, preferring to let her cousin handle the press. Nathan Trasen's statement: 

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"It’s a good day when the courts are on the right side of history, and an even better one when NanoTrasen wins. Einstein Engines tried to get one over on us,  but they failed and the recuperation of some of our assets is step in the right direction. We still have much to do. Miranda is going to seize the day today, no doubt about that! We’re going to get back what’s ours, one way or another." 

Following the Trasens, Alex Mason’s reinforced Langenfeld limousine came into sight about ten minutes later, with staff clad in dark cyan and coat-wearing shellframe IPC opening the doors and clearing the path for the banking magnate and his team. No comment was given, though very few questions were asked to begin with. Proceedings continued as usual, lasting well into the night, Idris Incorporated securing the Phoenix Agricultural Bank as their newest asset for the modest sum of 272.87 million credits. The final item was auctioned at 11pm Tau Ceti Standard Time, the event concluding twenty minutes after the Trasens and Alex Mason stepped out, of which a video was taken: 

Quote

 

Miranda Trasen is seen exiting the building, surrounded by crowds of photographers and bodyguards who escort her to her car. Following her are Nathan Trasen and Alex Mason. Nathan stops, turning at the cameras before extending a hand and clasping both Mason’s arm and shoulderputting his arm around Mason’s shoulder, bringing the surprised man to a halt and forcing him towards the cameras in a clearly awkward moment for him.

“I’d like to say that today we secured back some the great city of Phoenixport, and that everything we’ve accomplished here today wouldn’t be possible without the help from our friends over at Idris Incorporated. They tried to outsmart us with their puppet companies and government money, but I haven’t seen anyone outsmart Idris money!”

A clearly uneasy but largely expressionless Idris Chief Executive Officer is standing throughout Trasen’s small publicity stunt as both sides’ security scramble behind the pair, trying to cope with Nathan’s ostensibly improvised address on national television. Reclamation units are seen having their eyes turn red, being held at bay by Idris operators and NanoTrasen Security as everyone hawks over the other, the situation eventually de-escalating as Trasen lets go. No comment is given by Mason, who is closely escorted back to his armoured car.

 

[Caelphon]

Peterdiezel Boat Racing Competition Begins!

 

The annual Peterdizel Boat Racing Competition begins at 09h30am and will only conclude in three days, after a gruelling eighty hours that the competitors will experience together. It is watched by millions across the Republic of Biesel, as well as the greater Orion Spur. For the last few years, Ingi Usang Entertainment Company has been responsible for streaming it and shall continue the annual tradition again. 

Teams have travelled from lightyears away to take part in the competition, most notably the Sunshine City Sailors who hail from Silversun’s Mulobi-Mbisi. They will be competing alongside the Mendell City Boat Club, the Cape Cods, New Marfa Yacht Club, Phoenixport Phantoms, Mictlan Marineros and many others. Craterview has become their home for the last week as they finish their final preparations before embarking. 

The competition takes place across a large span of Biesel’s oceans, measuring an impressive one-thousand-eight-hundred-and-eighty-five nautical miles. With most of the seafaring crafts restricted to a speed of twenty knots, it is likely that we’ll see them in the last legs of the competition in the early hours of Monday morning. Regardless of your origin, we wish luck to all those competing in the Peterdiezel Boat Racing Competition.

Route of the Peterdiezel Boat Racing Competition

Not Drawn To Scale

Edited June 3, 2022 by Caelphon

[Caelphon]

Peterdiezel Competition Threatened by Storms 

Twenty-four hours into the Peterdiezel Boat Racing Competition, we’ve been watching in anticipation as the teams put all their effort into cruising across Xavier’s Sea along the western continental coast of Eos. Drawing from footage provided by Ingi Usang Entertainment Company, it is clear that some team’s efforts have been paying off. The Mictlan Marineros find themselves pulling ahead, tentatively securing first place, with the Europan Submariners following closely behind the Marineros, and in third the competitors from the New Marfa Yacht Club. The next five qualifying competitors are the Sunshine City Sailors, Phoenixport Phantoms, Swimstars, Moghesian Fishing League Guild and Mendell City Boat Club. 

Despite the thrilling entertainment provided by the Peterdiezel Competition, reality reminds us that mother nature bows to no one. Meteorologists have been studying data gained from early warning detection systems, alongside satellite information, and confirm that the competitors may be facing intense weather conditions as Tropical Storm Ernesto makes its way south across Xavier’s Sea. They have assured that it will likely dissipate before reaching Craterview, but it may negatively impact those caught in it. 

Several of the teams find themselves sponsored by notable entities, with the New Marfa Yacht Club being awarded a sponsorship by Elco, a state-owned enterprise in the Serene Republic of Elyra responsible for its phoron extraction, refinement and research. Additionally, Mendell City Boat Club has become one of NanoTrasen’s most notable sponsorships, sporting the logo of the megacorporation as a flying flag as it cuts through the competition, slowly but surely. Its rivals the Phoenixport Phantoms find themselves supported by Einstein Engines, the livery across their seafaring vessel making it quite obvious. 

[Caelphon]

Tropical Storm Ernesto hits Peterdiezel Boating Competition 

Shortly before passing through the Peterdiezel Boat Racing Competition, tropical storm Ernesto was upgraded to a Category 3, sustaining winds of 182 km/h or 98 kt as it descended onto the competitors that were forced to endure its devastation. Due to the composition of Biesel’s landmass to ocean ratio being disproportionate, creating situations where the impact of these tropical storms can be multiplied two-fold. 

Several of the competitors chose to cease their efforts in pursuing the competition in the face of Ernesto, attempting to secure their seafaring vessels against the turbulent winds and the torrential downpour that kept worsening as it continued to move south across Xavier’s Sea. Other competitors continued in hopes of reaching the eye of the cyclone, such as the Mendell City Boat Club, New Marfa Yacht Club, and the Sunshine City Sailors. Due to the disturbances created by Ernesto, Ingi Usang Entertainment Company has announced that streaming will return as soon as it has passed over. 

Despite repeat attempts by the competition authorities to reach the three teams that pushed through Ernesto, all have been unsuccessful. They have affirmed that there is yet to be enough reason to be concerned, however, they will be keeping an eye on the developing situation. NanoTrasen has confirmed that they have search and rescue teams on standby in the event they are required. 

Regardless, shortly before tropical storm Ernesto hit the competitors, the Mendell City Boat Club had managed to secure themselves in first, with the New Marfa Yacht Club following closely behind as they sailed into the approaching barrage. The Sunshine City Sailors sailed into third, and were last seen trailing not far behind the New Marfa Yacht Club competitors. Until the environmental disturbances have lifted significantly, these positions will continue being reflected. 

Emblem of the Sunshine City Sailors

Edited June 5, 2022 by Caelphon

[Caelphon]

Peterdiezel Boating Competition Continues 

Despite attempts by mother nature to derail the Peterdiezel Boat Racing Competition, it continues as Tropical Storm Ernesto begins to dissipate as it approaches Craterview. Several of the competitors that hoisted their anchors and endured the attack by its torrential downpour and turbulent winds have largely been unimpacted and will continue sailing across Xavier’s Sea. 

The New Marfa Yacht Club secured first, despite some auxiliary damage across their Hephaestus Aeson-class Sailing Yacht, and currently are at a standstill as they repair their canvas. Similarly, Mendell City Boat Club’s NanoTrasen Odin-class Sailing Yacht requires repairs to both its canvas and hull after heeling. Attempts to locate the Sunshine City Sailors have been unsuccessful and hails continue to go unanswered. NanoTrasen has confirmed that shuttles are being dispatched to locate their vessel - presumably, they sustained damage during the storm and are unable to request assistance or clarify their condition. 

Emblem of the Mictlan Marineros

[Caelphon]

Sunshine City Sailors Discovered!

After several hours of searching, NanoTrasen shuttles spotted the Sunshine City Sailors’ Sailing Yacht off the continental eastern coast of Astraeus - with significant damage to several of their onboard navigational systems as well as their canvas, hull and auxiliary motors. They drifted approximately 505 nautical miles off the course of the Peterdiezel Boat Racing Route. NanoTrasen further dispatched a rescue team from the ports of Belle Cote, and it has been confirmed that everybody has been retrieved and is making a recovery in Belle Cote’s Regional Hospital. 

The New Marfa Yacht Club has slipped from their leading position, with the Mendell City Boat Club securing the lead after overtaking them during repairs. The Mictlan Marineros have secured themselves in third, ahead of both Swimstars and the Moghesian Fishing League. Despite the concern generated from the missing competitors, the competition authorities have confirmed that it will continue until the remaining teams have reached Craterview.

Location of the Sunshine City Sailors

[Caelphon]

Peterdiezel Boating Competition Ends

The Peterdiezel Boat Racing Competition comes to a close after being extended by Tropical Storm Ernesto, with many of those watching the stream by Ingi Usang Entertainment Company experiencing this momentous moment in history - live, thanks to an agreement between the Republic of Biesel and Einstein Engines to boost the extranet signal with the use of the Einstein Engines Interstellar Communications Relay Everest in orbit of Biesel. 

Each team displayed proficiency in their skills, navigating and persisting even in the face of the turbulent winds and torrential downpour that barraged Xavier’s Sea. Despite the loss of the Sunshine City Sailors, the Peterdiezel Boating Competition continued and is set to conclude as the last remaining teams dock in Craterview. Millions cheered in anticipation as the qualifying teams passed the finish line. 

The Mictlan Marineros secured themselves as the victors, following closely the Mendell City Boating Club, and in third the New Marfa Yacht Club. The respective leaders of the competitive teams have shown today their extraordinary skills, as well as the solid work ethic of those that they led throughout the setbacks experienced. Congratulations are in order for all. 

Swimstars finished fourth, followed by the Europan Submariners, Moghesian Fishing League, Phoenixport Phantoms, Cape Codes, and in tenth place the Adhomian Royal Yacht Club. Those that finished after the Adhomian Royal Yacht Club did not place, and were instead given a participatory award for their efforts, and applauded for their navigation of tropical storm Ernesto. The Sunshine City Sailors were unfortunately disqualified due to veering off course, and their subsequent recovery by NanoTrasen.

[Caelphon]

Bluespace Gates Struggle

 

In a press conference this past Sunday, President Joseph Dorn announced that the Bluespace Gates within the Republic of Biesel, the ones present within Tau Ceti, are struggling to cope with the volume of vessels that passes through the system and will be forced to begin scheduled shutdowns. He further confirmed that the amount of phoron required to keep the Bluespace Gates operating has dwindled most of the Republic’s stores of the mineral and unless another source is found the period that the Bluespace Gates remain online will continue to decrease. 

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“Due to the unfortunate circumstances that we find ourselves in, hard decisions must be made for the greater good.  The scarcity of phoron has caused significant issues across the Orion Spur, and unless another source of this mineral is found, will continue snowballing. It is with the advice of my cabinet, that it has been decided that the Republic of Biesel will begin implementing scheduled blackouts for the Bluespace Gates in Tau Ceti,” President Dorn announces. 

Dorn then further expanded that the Bluespace Gates will be offline triweekly, occurring every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, with immediate effect. There have already been reports of panic buying across the Orion Spur, commencing shortly after President Dorn’s announcement of the rolling blackouts. Additionally, it was announced that the tariffs for using the Bluespace Gate have also increased in an attempt to incentivise non-Bluespace Gate travel. Stellar Corporate Conglomerate Vessels are exempt from these tariffs. 

[Haydizzle]

Businesses Vacate the Hegemony; Izweski Economy in Ruins?

 

In an announcement made by many Stellar Corporate Conglomerate companies, there is news out of the Badlands today when it was announced that they will no longer be engaging in major business practice within the Hegemony. They cited “unfriendly” practices and difficulty with the transportation of goods and services purchased within the nation to the rest of the Spur as their reasons for withdrawing from their businesses growing inside of the Hegemony. The only two corporations to not make an announcement of similar note are Hephaestus Industries and Orion Express, who both answered the questions of Bugle journalists with affirmatives when asked if they would continue to operate with Hegemonic businesses, or guilds as they are called by Unathi, and within the Hegemony.

Azui Hutay'zai, economic consultant for Hegemon Not'zar, answered brief questions on the matter. While the loss of valued partners in trade and beliefs will be missed, he offered that "[the Izweski Hegemony] will graciously accept their time and business again … when they are able." Other questions were declined, however, notable among which were how Not'zar Izweski plans to have his country cope with the departure of important business within the Hegemony, or if they would attempt some way to bring corporate interests back into the fold. The withdrawal will likely not be immediate, as though there are not many, these storefronts will become either unmanned and foreclosed, switch to being owned in shop, or be bought by competing guilds. The more concerning point of the withdrawal is the massive amount of raw resources purchased within the Hegemony by many of the withdrawing corporations. The Hegemony along with the other less developed states of the Badlands, such as the People's Republic of Adhomai, account for a majority of rare metals and raw resources used in factories across the spur, from Xanu Prime to New Hai Phong. The loss of these materials may be felt far and wide, though multiple corporate spokespersons have stated that their factories would not be affected by this change.

Some professionals speculate that due to the aforementioned heavy reliance on exports, the Hegemony’s economy may take a steep dive as it is already struggling to cope with the ongoing scarcity of phoron affecting the wider Spur. Without the backing of most of the economic backbone of the galaxy, one pressing question remains: what direction is it that the Hegemony is heading?

[Caelphon]

Operations on Reade Expand!

The Stellar Corporate Conglomerate has announced plans to expand its operations on Reade, focusing predominately on the gas extraction and refinery industry present across the gas giant and its moons. With deposits of both Helium-3 and Hydrogen, Reade is expected to become increasingly integral to the overall stability of the Republic of Biesel as it continues to push the Peacekeeper Mandate within the Corporate Reconstruction Zone, as well as being one of the only ways of protection against the encroaching phoron scarcity.

It has been confirmed that Orion Express Logistics will hold the majority controlling interest within these expanded operations on Reade, increasing their corporate portfolio. Chief Executive Officer Hong Chin-Hae allegedly met with several of the other megacorporate directors several days before the announcement, with many believing her to be the pioneer of the idea. The Orion Express will also commence construction of refuelling depots across the Corporate Reconstruction Zone, with the SCCV Horizon likely to be one of its customers along its journey across the Orion Spur. 

With the scarcity of phoron worsening, reliance on warpdrives has steadily increased over the last months, with Einstein Engines confirming the possibility of the Suzuki-Zhang Hammer Drive making its way into the civilian market after formalities set by the Solarian Corporate Authority have been met. While it is unknown how this may impact the Stellar Corporate Conglomerate, it can certainly be said it will alleviate worries regarding interstellar travel within the Orion Spur.

[Caelphon]

Caprice is Rationed

After a meeting with High Queen Vaur’skiyet’sca of the Zo’ra Hive, President Dorn has announced that Caprice will be receiving less phoron than previously due to the impact of the mineral’s scarcity, and a system of rationing will soon be implemented across the planet. Additionally, Lesser Queen Scay’extiih’aur of the Zo’ra Hive is set to leave the Xerxes Biodome on New Gibson in order to discuss potential alternative avenues for increased K’ois production with the High Queen. 

It is possible that the planned expansion of K’ois farms on Caprice may commence sooner rather than later in the wake of the decisions taken by the Republic of Biesel to combat the encroaching scarcity of phoron, as well as limit the impact of the galactic economic recession that fast approaches since the announcement of the rolling blackouts scheduled by the Dorn Administration earlier this week. 

There is some unrest brewing within Flagsdale following the announcement of phoron rationing, with a particular group known as the Ky’klux - an organisation of Vaurcae that have no allegiance to any brood within the Orion Spur - voicing their concerns and taking the rationing as a sign of their predictions being made true. This comes as worry since the group has rather kept to themselves and performed petty crimes like vandalism, with many beginning to panic at the thought of another riot within Flagsdale.

[Caelphon]

 

Einstein Engines releases Civilian Hammerdrive

The successful rollout of the Suzuki-Zhang Hammerdrive across the Solarian Alliance’s Navy sees Einstein Engines fulfil their promises of bringing the advanced warpdrive to the civilian market after almost two years of its successes in dealing with the encroaching phoron scarcity - and restoring the capabilities of the Solarian Alliance is ensuring stability within its borders, through being incredibly affordable in its consumption with Helium-3 and breaking previous speeds set by other competing warpdrives. 

Pluto has seen its strategic importance regarding future military intervention in the Human Wildlands skyrocket as a result of the Suzuki-Zhang Hammerdrive’s success, with Helium-3 extraction capabilities doubling over the last twenty-four months according to the People's Commissariat for Economics and Finance of the Plutonian Special Administrative Zone. 

While slightly different to what is found within the Solarian Alliance’s Navy, the civilian Suzuki-Zhang Hammerdrive is said to still push far beyond the boundaries of existing warpdrives - doing so economically thanks to its decreased fuel consumption rates. Einstein Engines has reported its civilian launch has already seen widespread success in its limited marketing only within the Solarian Alliance and has announced that it will commence bringing it to other markets considerably earlier than expected - beginning with the Republic of Biesel.

[Caelphon]

Zeng-Hu Commences Charters

Following an announcement by the government of Assunzione regarding the decreased expedition launches into the Light’s Edge region of the Orion Spur, Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals has jumped at the opportunity to expand its foothold within the interstellar economy through developing an additional branch based on exploratory sciences - different to their original intent of pursuing medical-based sciences.  

Chief Research Officer, Yuko Murakami Haya, has long claimed that the next important discovery regarding medicine is most likely to be discovered within this anomalous region, and is believed to be the main proponent of the creation of the medical conglomerate’s mission of chartering Light’s Edge. The Triesto Branch on Assunzione will be expanded to incorporate the oversight offices of the Light’s Edge Expeditionary Charter Group.  

Vice President, Rochelle Mohi, and Chief Medical Officer, Fukumi Cho, have worked in conjunction with CRO Haya in attempting to devise an alternative mindshield implant that can assist in countering the effect that the anomalous region has on the Zona Bonvinae - the current working theory regarding the heightened development of psychosis while traversing it. This alternative mindshield implant has seen some success in testing groups on Europa, and will soon see itself utilized in the Light’s Edge Expeditionary Charter Group.

[Caelphon]

Einstein Engines Phoenixport Expansion

Following the release of the Suzuki-Zhang Hammerdrive to the civilian market, Einstein Engines has declared that it will begin acquiring additional facilities within Phoenixport in order to “revitalize” the city - and become a “major economic hub within the Republic of Biesel overseen by an employee-centric corporate ethos that promotes productivity, whilst still complying with existing constraints” - according to Chief Executive Officer Noella Lopez-Zhang.  

The most recent acquisition is the dilapidated University of Phoenixport, procured by Einstein Engines earlier this week, and confirmed to be the start of Phoenixport’s resurgence after the megacorporation declared that the University will see itself uplifted and will soon become a centre of important discoveries within the Orion Spur. It was then revealed it will undergo a name change, the Lopez-Zhang Academy of Science and Technology and will have a focus on advancing the understanding of warp theory. 

Additionally, Einstein Engines funded the expansion of Phoenixport Regional Hospital Centre with the medical facility unveiling the opening of an entirely new wing dedicated to long-term patient care and rehabilitation, and will be utilized as soon as renovations are completed, and when it passes interstellar structural integrity tests. 

[Desven]

 

Dorn Presses ‘Orb’ Donation

Due to the Phoron Crisis, the Dorn administration has requested a phoron donation from one of their domestic allies, the Zo’ra Hive.

The petition for an ‘Orb,’ a Vaurca lifeform that serves as a live container of phoron, was made almost a month ago when Joseph Dorn and High Queen Vaur met in Mendell City. However, an ultimatum was made yesterday afternoon with the Dorn administration threatening to empty Dis, the Vaurcaesian stronghold which houses Warforms and serves as a military base. 

The announcement was made public in a report by Fred Bolas, a spokesperson for the Republic of Biesel. “Without further phoron supplies, it is unsustainable to continue to house Warforms, the property of the Tau Ceti Foreign Legion, in reserve on Caprice. These weapons would be better put to use within outposts situated throughout the Corporate Reconstruction Zone,” the document reads.

This is not the first time the issue of Warforms has come to the fore, with the Foreign Legion and the Zo'ra Hive having been in a long-standing debate on their ownership, both sides claiming to be the true authority. Although escalation is unlikely, this event is an unexpected turn in the otherwise friendly relationship between the Republic of Biesel and the Zo’ra Hive since their arrival to Tau Ceti.

Even if the ‘Orb’ is donated, scientists disagree on the benefits.

“We don’t know how pure the phoron inside the Vaurca is,” said Miles McGregor, one of the leading researchers of Vaurcaesian physiology. “Simply put, k’ois tend to stick to other components, and they're not easy to separate. It is highly likely that the phoron, even if it originated from pure crystals, may now be tainted because of the Vaurca diet.”

While the Zo’ra Hive has made no official report, an inside source claims that the donation is expected to occur later this week.

Edited August 14, 2022 by Desven
editorial

[Desven]

Police Doubled In Flagsdale

As a preventive measure, the Mendell City Police has increased its presence in Flagsdale, the largest Vaurca center in Biesel.

The decision was made after High Queen Vaur announced that the Zo’ra Hive would provide no more eggs for the ‘Queenless,’ a broad group of Vaurcae that do not belong to any of the major broods.

Queenless Vaurcae are said to be the main perpetrators of Flagsdale riots, according to statistics from the Mendell City Police Department in 2462. Last year, a Queenless band known as the Ak’riix disrupted the Flagsdale Hivenet relay, a major loss in the district’s infrastructure. Outside of District 9, Queenless Vaurcae have the highest crime rates. 

Vaur’s announcement was made after the Dorn administration declared that the Zo’ra Hive would receive less phoron, due to the mineral’s scarcity.

Although all attempts to disturb the peace in Flagsdale have been suppressed, Mendell Police City still expects a significant demonstration.

When asked to provide a statement, Ta’Akaix’Ger’myck’aal, a representative of the Zo’ra Hive, said, “In times of crisis, our charity work has to be reduced. The aid we provided to the unaffiliated hive-cells is not viable for the time being.”

[Desven]

Getmore Corporation CEO Responds to Threats of General Strike

After the allegations of a general strike made by Queen Xakt regarding the Luthien facilities, Mataji Khatri responded in a short statement.

The response, provided by Miss Nala Somari, was claimed to be “not official in any way, just a clarification.” She then proceeded to read from a piece of paper. “Sometimes, in the heat of the moment, we say things we don't really mean to,” quoted Somari, “and those comments should be taken with a grain of salt.”

Two days ago, when asked by the press, Queen Xakt said that she would follow with a general strike if the ‘Orb’ is donated, per Dorn’s request. “If Dorn keeps demanding our most precious resources, we have no option but to protest. I'm willing to stop the production in all Luthien facilities if hostilities continue.”

However, economist Joe Wollock claimed this scenario to be “highly unlikely.”

“The Zo’ra Hive knows its worth,” said Wollock in a holo interview, “but they also know that their special status greatly depends on the services they provide. If Xakt keeps pushing for a strike, antithetical to the Vaurca values the Hive has promoted since their arrival, they give us no option but to look at other suitors that can fulfill the job.”

Queen Athvur declined to comment after she was asked about Xakt’s threats. While the Mendell City Bugle could reach no other Queens, New Sedantis returned a fax with the following response: “Comments from Queen Xakt do not reflect the current position of the Hive.”

[Connorjg1]

Main avenues close for Zo’ra Hive’s military parade

Today, large crowds of Zo’rane Vaurcae gather in Mendell City to celebrate “Hive War Victory Day,” a non-autochthonous holiday in honor of the historic victory over the Lii’dra during the “Great Hive War,” and the conclusion of the conflict thirty-thousand years ago today.

The Biesellite version of the parade was established in 2459 when Zo’rane Workers and Warriors took to the streets of Flagsdale in a boisterous celebration of the occasion. The event remained local to District 9 until 2461 when a contingent of Vaurcae arrived at Freedom Plaza in Zhèngfǔ District.

This year, the event has taken a different tone. In recognition of the anniversary, the Zo’ra Queens have arranged a major military parade to be televised. The broadcast, prepared in the early morning hours, has hired human commentators to better inform the spectators about the historical significance of the “Great Hive War.”

Currently, the Flagsdale contingent—led by High Queen Vaur—occupies five primary lanes of the Interdistrict Highway. While circulation is still possible, long traffic is to be expected. The Mendell City Bugle anticipates the downtime to last for the remainder of the day in Districts 1 through 9.

Another contingent, arriving from New Sedantis—led by Queen Zoleth—, is currently positioned in District 1. Major arterials from Mendell City’s downtown, such as Lulworth Avenue and Trasen Memorial Road, are completely occupied by the Zo’ra Hive. Spectators can join and observe the parade starting in Minell Street, where the proper preparations have been made for the audience.

Though there is currently a second parade in Caprice, the event is not as flamboyant as the one in Mendell City. In Biesel, Zo’rane senior Warriors are sporting the best of the Hive’s equipment while preparing to recreate their traditional formations. In addition, various Warforms from the storage facility “Dis” are expected to march alongside the parade in District 1.

Despite the current political tensions regarding the phoron shortage, the Zo’rane parade has all the required permits requested by the Mendell City Police and is expected to remain a peaceful, family-friendly event.

Edited August 28, 2022 by Connorjg1

[Connorjg1]

What Is ‘Wyvenet’ and How to Report It

Following the tense situation in Flagsdale, authorities of Mendell City have advised about a highly illegal communication protocol within Vaurcae, commonly known as ‘Wyvenet.’

‘Wyvenet’, named after its developer, Ka’Akaix’Wyve Zo’ra, is an alternative channel for bandless Vaurcae (dubbed ‘Queenless’) to communicate without official supervision. At the time being, the protocol has not been cracked.

“This is a major threat to Mendell City and a stain on our relationship with the Zo’ra Hive,” said Mendell City Police Deputy Michael Gomez. “It cannot continue.”

As ‘Wyvenet’ does not use Bluespace components, the relays are located across Mendell City and other regions of Biesel. While most are kept inside Vaurca buildings, some hide in plain sight, disguised as holovision antennae.

The ‘Wyvenet’ can also be detected by their radio frequency. Though unintelligible, it has a trademark pattern, referred to as ‘spiral’ by experts in telecommunications.

Republic of Biesel citizens are encouraged to report ‘Wyvenet’ stations and suspected activity to their police department. Although ‘Wyvenet’ is only known to operate inside Biesel, authorities suspect ‘Wyvenet’ radios have been smuggled to other planets as part of the cargo orders of different spaceships.

[Desven]

Mendell City Metro Line Evacuated After Foiled K’ois Terrorist Attack

Active k’ois spores were deployed across five stations of Mendell City Metro Line 1, which serves to connect Zhengfu District with Xinghua Prefecture.

So far, more than a dozen suspects have been arrested. All were identified as Zo’rane Vaurcae, affiliated with the Ky’klux gang.

Although the k’ois were identified within minutes, twenty people have been confirmed to be infected with mycosis, with a possibility of up to five hundred more unconfirmed cases from passengers who passed through the station. Line 1 will remain closed through the day as authorities continue to disinfect it.

The Court of Queens in Caprice issued an emergency statement, calling the act “deplorable” and “Lii’draic.”   

“What transpired today in Mendell City is deplorable and does not represent the values of the Zo’ra Hive, much less any of the Vaurca Hives. The nature of this attack is Lii’draic, and we will fully cooperate with authorities for the arrest of all responsible parties.”

Users of Line 1 are encouraged to visit their health centers for a k’ois test. Additionally, some housing buildings in the Xinghua Prefecture have been quarantined to prevent any future mycosis cases.

If left untreated, the contagion of k’ois mycosis can be lethal. For the full list of symptoms and other information, please visit health.biesel.gov/kois.