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Far Frontiers Gateway sector
- Thread starter Murph
- Start date
257-2510 Gateway News Service- Xanadu
John Smallberries here with the Gateway News Service. The hammer has fallen on many of the powerful on Xanadu. The Guillotine files have shown up on the nets. The files detail many of the illegal and unethical business dealings, and the web of relationships between politicians, lawyers, Judges, corporate CEOs, and the rich.
Many personal dealings have been exposed. The Chief Executive of Xanadu has also been named as a person involved in all these patronage and dirty deals, he is declining to issue any statement other than the allegations are patently untrue. However, the documents showing the payments, hush money, and connections have been released, so his denial is a bit hollow. Lo Pan Industries and Investments name keeps coming up time and time again in the documents. However Mr. Lo Pan is off world at this particular moment, and his spokesmen have denied his participation in any illegal acts.
Right now, the power brokers on Xanadu are in shock at the revelations, and at this time are hiding behind their lawyers declining to speak on the matters that are being revealed, which have shaken the pillars of heaven. We are told that behind the scenes there are many vid calls being made in an attempt to mitigate the damage that is seen being done to the status quo. Two High Court justices have resigned and have taken ship off planet. The CEO of Ng Optronics and Laser Systems has also gone on extended walkabout off planet, reports are that he has gone to Nuevo Sol which does not have an extradition treaty with Xanadu.
GNS has been told that Anna Kim has been very quietly spirited off planet, to an undisclosed location. One rumor has her going to Sutekh, another to Hades Station, and yet another to New Texas. As we get more information we, at GNS, will be bringing you the latest information on this metaphysical bomb which went off on Xanadu. Questions are being asked as to what part Anna Kim had to play in this whole “disagreeable” episode as it is being called, or was she just a pawn in a far larger game.
Our reporter John Smallberries will have more as he develops the situation, since it appears that Xanadu is going through rough times as the political-economic masters of the planet seem to have some explaining to do.
John Smallberries here with the Gateway News Service. The hammer has fallen on many of the powerful on Xanadu. The Guillotine files have shown up on the nets. The files detail many of the illegal and unethical business dealings, and the web of relationships between politicians, lawyers, Judges, corporate CEOs, and the rich.
Many personal dealings have been exposed. The Chief Executive of Xanadu has also been named as a person involved in all these patronage and dirty deals, he is declining to issue any statement other than the allegations are patently untrue. However, the documents showing the payments, hush money, and connections have been released, so his denial is a bit hollow. Lo Pan Industries and Investments name keeps coming up time and time again in the documents. However Mr. Lo Pan is off world at this particular moment, and his spokesmen have denied his participation in any illegal acts.
Right now, the power brokers on Xanadu are in shock at the revelations, and at this time are hiding behind their lawyers declining to speak on the matters that are being revealed, which have shaken the pillars of heaven. We are told that behind the scenes there are many vid calls being made in an attempt to mitigate the damage that is seen being done to the status quo. Two High Court justices have resigned and have taken ship off planet. The CEO of Ng Optronics and Laser Systems has also gone on extended walkabout off planet, reports are that he has gone to Nuevo Sol which does not have an extradition treaty with Xanadu.
GNS has been told that Anna Kim has been very quietly spirited off planet, to an undisclosed location. One rumor has her going to Sutekh, another to Hades Station, and yet another to New Texas. As we get more information we, at GNS, will be bringing you the latest information on this metaphysical bomb which went off on Xanadu. Questions are being asked as to what part Anna Kim had to play in this whole “disagreeable” episode as it is being called, or was she just a pawn in a far larger game.
Our reporter John Smallberries will have more as he develops the situation, since it appears that Xanadu is going through rough times as the political-economic masters of the planet seem to have some explaining to do.
264-2510 Gateway News Service- New Paris
We are told that repairs on the Gabrielle 3 Mining station are well underway, with repairs estimated to be completed by mid next year, which will also include a number of long overdue upgrades to the station. Station Manager Louis Tenant is telling reporters that with the upgrades will be an increase in ore handling capacity, new smelters, ingot makers, and two new mass drivers to launch the cargo to the main processing node for the station.
The ore catch system is being upgraded to the latest standards by Xanadu Space Mining Corporation which will allow for a higher margin of safety in case of accidents. Plus the conveyors are being upgraded for faster and safer operation. We are told that Emperor Napoleon IV has directed that the Gabrielle 3 station become the model for the upgrades of the other stations in the system. The new Xanadu Mining system XI will boost productivity by an estimated 31% over the previous equipment.
Also extra security precautions are being put in place to prevent as repeat of the incident which caused so much damage to the station. Imperial security troops will be stationed at the much expanded and improved Gabrielle station. The economy of New Paris has suffered with the station being out of commission since a full 17% of the space mining operations moved through this station before the bomb caused so much damage. The economic benefits of the rapid restoration of this station cannot be understated Mr. Tennant told GNS.
We are told that repairs on the Gabrielle 3 Mining station are well underway, with repairs estimated to be completed by mid next year, which will also include a number of long overdue upgrades to the station. Station Manager Louis Tenant is telling reporters that with the upgrades will be an increase in ore handling capacity, new smelters, ingot makers, and two new mass drivers to launch the cargo to the main processing node for the station.
The ore catch system is being upgraded to the latest standards by Xanadu Space Mining Corporation which will allow for a higher margin of safety in case of accidents. Plus the conveyors are being upgraded for faster and safer operation. We are told that Emperor Napoleon IV has directed that the Gabrielle 3 station become the model for the upgrades of the other stations in the system. The new Xanadu Mining system XI will boost productivity by an estimated 31% over the previous equipment.
Also extra security precautions are being put in place to prevent as repeat of the incident which caused so much damage to the station. Imperial security troops will be stationed at the much expanded and improved Gabrielle station. The economy of New Paris has suffered with the station being out of commission since a full 17% of the space mining operations moved through this station before the bomb caused so much damage. The economic benefits of the rapid restoration of this station cannot be understated Mr. Tennant told GNS.
265-2510 Gateway New Service- New Caledonia
Highland Shipping has entered into an agreement with Caledon Ventures to handle shipping into and out of Coffeeville, Dustball, and New Texas. Highland Shipping is a small corporation, but has long standing ties with those three worlds since until recently Caledon Ventures was more focused on the subsector and the trade with New Canberra.
This agreement seems to indicate that Caledon Ventures, which is partially owned by the Hereditary Prince and his family are looking to move into other subsectors, and potentially become in the future a competitor to the Royal Sutekh Merchant Marine and Cheval Enterprises.
If this is true, then we can expect that the Cheval family companies to react the way they normally do towards any threat to their bottom line; full on attack and attempts to undercut the competition. Caledon Ventures is one of the companies who jumped on the New Silk Road route to the Aslan Hierate early on, and has been purchasing jump 3 ships from New Texas, Xanadu and Gateway to increase their trade with the Aslans.
They managed to freeze out the RSMM early on, but the Cheval family is starting to “surge” their famous Tradewind class 1,999 ton ships onto the New Silk Route. Caledon Ventures along with Highland Shipping has developed two classes of ships for the trade, the 1,000 ton liner, and the 2,000 ton cargo ship. At this time they have 8 liners, and 11 cargo ships in service, compared to the 88 total ships of the RSMM.
The RSMM and Cheval factors on Asgard have lodged complaints that the Silk Road stations are “slow rolling” services and refueling to their ships, and accelerating the service and turn around of Caledon Ventures vessels. An investigation has found no validity to this complaint, although there were episodes where investigators did find that work was lagging behind due to union issues on the station which seemed to disproportionately affect RSMM vessels. The union members deny any intent to slow down the RSMM ships.
Highland Shipping has entered into an agreement with Caledon Ventures to handle shipping into and out of Coffeeville, Dustball, and New Texas. Highland Shipping is a small corporation, but has long standing ties with those three worlds since until recently Caledon Ventures was more focused on the subsector and the trade with New Canberra.
This agreement seems to indicate that Caledon Ventures, which is partially owned by the Hereditary Prince and his family are looking to move into other subsectors, and potentially become in the future a competitor to the Royal Sutekh Merchant Marine and Cheval Enterprises.
If this is true, then we can expect that the Cheval family companies to react the way they normally do towards any threat to their bottom line; full on attack and attempts to undercut the competition. Caledon Ventures is one of the companies who jumped on the New Silk Road route to the Aslan Hierate early on, and has been purchasing jump 3 ships from New Texas, Xanadu and Gateway to increase their trade with the Aslans.
They managed to freeze out the RSMM early on, but the Cheval family is starting to “surge” their famous Tradewind class 1,999 ton ships onto the New Silk Route. Caledon Ventures along with Highland Shipping has developed two classes of ships for the trade, the 1,000 ton liner, and the 2,000 ton cargo ship. At this time they have 8 liners, and 11 cargo ships in service, compared to the 88 total ships of the RSMM.
The RSMM and Cheval factors on Asgard have lodged complaints that the Silk Road stations are “slow rolling” services and refueling to their ships, and accelerating the service and turn around of Caledon Ventures vessels. An investigation has found no validity to this complaint, although there were episodes where investigators did find that work was lagging behind due to union issues on the station which seemed to disproportionately affect RSMM vessels. The union members deny any intent to slow down the RSMM ships.
266-2510 Gateway News Service- Asgard
A small disturbance broke out on docking arm #4 between the crew of an RSMM Tradewind, and the crew of the CCS (Caledonian Commercial Ship) Tara over the Tara getting preference for cargo unloading, despite the RSMM ship claiming to have been docked first. But dock supervisors said that the RSMM Ship the Blazing Eye was still in customs hands, and so the Tara actually finished first with customs, so they got to go first.
The captain of the RSMM ship said that was a false and fabricated story since Customs was dragging their feet in inspecting his ship, which always seems to happen to ships belonging to the RSMM and he was bloody tired of it happening! The customs supervisor, and dock supervisor said that was not the case, but they know that the RSMM have a reputation of creative book-keeping when it comes to cargoes so they get inspected a bit more thoroughly to ensure that they are not bringing in or taking out cargo items they have not declared. The captain of the Blazing Eye called this a blatant lie, since everyone knows that the RSMM is as pure as the driven snow!
Three crewmen of the Blazing Eye were arrested for brawling, and have been ordered confined to the station brig for 48 hours. The Captain of the Blazing Eye said that he was going to complain to the Sutekh Ambassador over this vile treatment of a respectable crew and ship.
Asgard is still the main jump off point for the New Silk Road since the chaos on New Africa has prevented the opening of their station for the Aslans. The Asgard government is telling us at the Gateway News Service that trade with the Aslan Hierate has picked up, and despite the vast distance to cover, it appears that very nice profits are being made by those ships who can make the trip.
A small disturbance broke out on docking arm #4 between the crew of an RSMM Tradewind, and the crew of the CCS (Caledonian Commercial Ship) Tara over the Tara getting preference for cargo unloading, despite the RSMM ship claiming to have been docked first. But dock supervisors said that the RSMM Ship the Blazing Eye was still in customs hands, and so the Tara actually finished first with customs, so they got to go first.
The captain of the RSMM ship said that was a false and fabricated story since Customs was dragging their feet in inspecting his ship, which always seems to happen to ships belonging to the RSMM and he was bloody tired of it happening! The customs supervisor, and dock supervisor said that was not the case, but they know that the RSMM have a reputation of creative book-keeping when it comes to cargoes so they get inspected a bit more thoroughly to ensure that they are not bringing in or taking out cargo items they have not declared. The captain of the Blazing Eye called this a blatant lie, since everyone knows that the RSMM is as pure as the driven snow!
Three crewmen of the Blazing Eye were arrested for brawling, and have been ordered confined to the station brig for 48 hours. The Captain of the Blazing Eye said that he was going to complain to the Sutekh Ambassador over this vile treatment of a respectable crew and ship.
Asgard is still the main jump off point for the New Silk Road since the chaos on New Africa has prevented the opening of their station for the Aslans. The Asgard government is telling us at the Gateway News Service that trade with the Aslan Hierate has picked up, and despite the vast distance to cover, it appears that very nice profits are being made by those ships who can make the trip.
273-2510 Gateway News Service- New Caledonia
In the capital city of New Scotia, the Hereditary Prince announced that the planet of Asgard has agreed to join as a member planet in the Principality of New Caledonia. This move has been long in the making, with serious diplomatic efforts being undertaken to bring the Asgardians into the Principality. A vote was held and over 82.76% of the voters on Asgard voted to join the Principality seeing the benefits to doing so. New Caledonia already had a series of military, police and commercial treaties with Asgard.
With this acquisition, the Principality has also claimed exclusive jurisdiction over the Skye and Loch Lomond systems, and to that effect have sent approximately 3,500 colonists to each world to stake their claim. Loch Lomond is the site of one of the New Silk Road orbital stations, which gives an added impetus for the Principality to send forces to give some teeth to its claim. Also going with the colonists are a reinforced company group of troops to defend the settlements. We are told that there are designs on Shurrupak as well since it is a Terran Garden world, and already boasts orbital facilities.
We are being told by the Minister of Colonization that the goal is to have 25,000+ settlers on each of the worlds not later than 2515. To that end a very aggressive recruitment and training program for settlers is being undertaken. Also the orbital facilities and ground based port facilities are being given first priority so that by 2550 the two planets can support over 100,000 colonists.
Twelve system defense boats have been carried to each system, with the ones in the Skye system being based on the planetary surface for the time being. Those in the Loch Lomond system are based at the station which has been designated as “Critical planetary infrastructure”, and as such is going to be enlarged with the naval facilities.
Negotiations are also underway with New Judea, but the New Judeans are generally opposed to membership in the Principality of New Caledonia. New Texas has been somewhat supportive of this move on the part of New Caledonia since they are allies due to their close astrographic location based on the Wayfarer Belt.
Also in a move that seems determined to both raise the hackles and fury of sophontologists everywhere, in a complete disregard of both standard and accepted first contact protocols, the merchant companies Jamison Factors, Caledon Ventures, and Highland Shipping have made contact with the natives of Mirayn and have set up “Trading Stations” on this primitive world.
The actions of these three companies, against the advice and practice of every reputable sophontologist could cause any amount of cultural shock, and damage the natives ability to evolve their culture without interference. But as Lord Thomas Mackenzie of Caledon Ventures said: Ach laddie, if we did not get here, then those Sassenachts of the Cheval companies would. We will be verra careful not to hurt the wee natives. Robert Jamison of Jamison Factors said it a bit blunter: We are there, we are going to make a profit, and the wee natives are getting the benefit of civilization and we are keeping the Chevals at bay.
The natives have reacted in varied ways, with some being hostile to the “Sky Gods”, and others treating the human traders as visiting gods from beyond the stars. Mineral surveys are being undertaken both on planet and in the system to see what ores are available to exploit. The traders are for the most part remaining in heavily fortified trading stations, which are garrisoned by Company troops, who are mostly mercenaries recruited off of Coffeeville and Outback.
These moves are seen by our analysts as New Caledonia beginning to assert its position in the subsector in order to give itself first rate status as a stellar nation. With its position in the sector, it does not appear that any other stellar powers are in a position to prevent New Caledonia from its expansion. New Canberra has expressed some concern over this sudden move, but it is still consolidating its own New Canberran Confederation with the worlds of Outback, Hyboria, and Bebop Station.
The New Caledonian Government has also begun overtures towards New Africa to allow for New Caledonian companies to participate in the construction of the space infrastructure for a second axis for the New Silk Road. This has been hotly opposed by New Canberra, which sees this as nothing more than a power grab by the New Caledonians. This has caused some stress on the otherwise good relations between New Canberra and New Caledonia.
New Caledonia has also contracted with the New Texas shipyards to construct 18 additional ships for their navy. This is in addition to the ships which are already being built. Of the 18 ships, two will be capital ships, 4 will be cruisers, and the rest are escort craft. The latest 5,000 ton destroyer class, the Defender will be the primary fleet destroyer once those ships start entering service in some numbers. At this time only three are in service with the fleet.
Also the Minister for Industry and the Minister for Science has started an aggressive push to move New Caledonia into TL 12 as soon as possible, and are aggressively recruiting both educators, and members of industry to force the tech base up as quickly as possible. Also to assist in this, missions to both New Texas and Xanadu have been sent to get those worlds to help boost the planetary tech level from 11 to 12.
As part of their trading ventures, the Principality has welcomed Aslans and is hoping to have some settle on worlds of the Principality. The Asgard facilities are slated for a massive upgrade as it is the current sole jumping off point for trade with the Hierate.
In the capital city of New Scotia, the Hereditary Prince announced that the planet of Asgard has agreed to join as a member planet in the Principality of New Caledonia. This move has been long in the making, with serious diplomatic efforts being undertaken to bring the Asgardians into the Principality. A vote was held and over 82.76% of the voters on Asgard voted to join the Principality seeing the benefits to doing so. New Caledonia already had a series of military, police and commercial treaties with Asgard.
With this acquisition, the Principality has also claimed exclusive jurisdiction over the Skye and Loch Lomond systems, and to that effect have sent approximately 3,500 colonists to each world to stake their claim. Loch Lomond is the site of one of the New Silk Road orbital stations, which gives an added impetus for the Principality to send forces to give some teeth to its claim. Also going with the colonists are a reinforced company group of troops to defend the settlements. We are told that there are designs on Shurrupak as well since it is a Terran Garden world, and already boasts orbital facilities.
We are being told by the Minister of Colonization that the goal is to have 25,000+ settlers on each of the worlds not later than 2515. To that end a very aggressive recruitment and training program for settlers is being undertaken. Also the orbital facilities and ground based port facilities are being given first priority so that by 2550 the two planets can support over 100,000 colonists.
Twelve system defense boats have been carried to each system, with the ones in the Skye system being based on the planetary surface for the time being. Those in the Loch Lomond system are based at the station which has been designated as “Critical planetary infrastructure”, and as such is going to be enlarged with the naval facilities.
Negotiations are also underway with New Judea, but the New Judeans are generally opposed to membership in the Principality of New Caledonia. New Texas has been somewhat supportive of this move on the part of New Caledonia since they are allies due to their close astrographic location based on the Wayfarer Belt.
Also in a move that seems determined to both raise the hackles and fury of sophontologists everywhere, in a complete disregard of both standard and accepted first contact protocols, the merchant companies Jamison Factors, Caledon Ventures, and Highland Shipping have made contact with the natives of Mirayn and have set up “Trading Stations” on this primitive world.
The actions of these three companies, against the advice and practice of every reputable sophontologist could cause any amount of cultural shock, and damage the natives ability to evolve their culture without interference. But as Lord Thomas Mackenzie of Caledon Ventures said: Ach laddie, if we did not get here, then those Sassenachts of the Cheval companies would. We will be verra careful not to hurt the wee natives. Robert Jamison of Jamison Factors said it a bit blunter: We are there, we are going to make a profit, and the wee natives are getting the benefit of civilization and we are keeping the Chevals at bay.
The natives have reacted in varied ways, with some being hostile to the “Sky Gods”, and others treating the human traders as visiting gods from beyond the stars. Mineral surveys are being undertaken both on planet and in the system to see what ores are available to exploit. The traders are for the most part remaining in heavily fortified trading stations, which are garrisoned by Company troops, who are mostly mercenaries recruited off of Coffeeville and Outback.
These moves are seen by our analysts as New Caledonia beginning to assert its position in the subsector in order to give itself first rate status as a stellar nation. With its position in the sector, it does not appear that any other stellar powers are in a position to prevent New Caledonia from its expansion. New Canberra has expressed some concern over this sudden move, but it is still consolidating its own New Canberran Confederation with the worlds of Outback, Hyboria, and Bebop Station.
The New Caledonian Government has also begun overtures towards New Africa to allow for New Caledonian companies to participate in the construction of the space infrastructure for a second axis for the New Silk Road. This has been hotly opposed by New Canberra, which sees this as nothing more than a power grab by the New Caledonians. This has caused some stress on the otherwise good relations between New Canberra and New Caledonia.
New Caledonia has also contracted with the New Texas shipyards to construct 18 additional ships for their navy. This is in addition to the ships which are already being built. Of the 18 ships, two will be capital ships, 4 will be cruisers, and the rest are escort craft. The latest 5,000 ton destroyer class, the Defender will be the primary fleet destroyer once those ships start entering service in some numbers. At this time only three are in service with the fleet.
Also the Minister for Industry and the Minister for Science has started an aggressive push to move New Caledonia into TL 12 as soon as possible, and are aggressively recruiting both educators, and members of industry to force the tech base up as quickly as possible. Also to assist in this, missions to both New Texas and Xanadu have been sent to get those worlds to help boost the planetary tech level from 11 to 12.
As part of their trading ventures, the Principality has welcomed Aslans and is hoping to have some settle on worlds of the Principality. The Asgard facilities are slated for a massive upgrade as it is the current sole jumping off point for trade with the Hierate.
278-2510 Gateway News Service- Sutekh
Amanda Cheval, the Chief Executive of Cheval Enterprises has issued a short statement that in light of the New Caledonian government’s declaration of war on Cheval Enterprises, they would be taking steps to ensure that their company and the ships of the RSMM were not treated unfairly.
Observers note that this verbiage is very similar to that used by recently retired King Dorian I when he was declaring a trade war upon those who have threatened the position of the RSMM in the sector. While the Royal Sutekh Merchant Marine is now owned by the planet, it was originally Cheval Mercantile Lines, before being renamed Sutekh Merchants, until it was “sold” to the planet of Sutekh.
The RSMM and, it need not be said, Cheval Enterprises operate as fingers on the same hand, with both groups being more than willing to fight fairly or unfairly to keep up their profit margins. The RSMM has developed a reputation, based on their armored and well armed 1,999 ton Tradewinds for being very reliable in carrying high value cargo and passengers.
And Cheval Factors, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cheval Enterprises has offices at every starport in the sector where they have a reputation for snatching up speculative cargoes which turn out to be extremely profitable, but are also more than willing to drive competing firms out of business if they can.
While Ms. Cheval would not speak directly with us, her administrative assistant told the Gateway News Service that she was not declaring war on New Caledonia, she was merely speaking that she hoped they understood how much of their trade was carried by the RSMM, and would think carefully about hazarding that long standing relationship.
Amanda Cheval, the Chief Executive of Cheval Enterprises has issued a short statement that in light of the New Caledonian government’s declaration of war on Cheval Enterprises, they would be taking steps to ensure that their company and the ships of the RSMM were not treated unfairly.
Observers note that this verbiage is very similar to that used by recently retired King Dorian I when he was declaring a trade war upon those who have threatened the position of the RSMM in the sector. While the Royal Sutekh Merchant Marine is now owned by the planet, it was originally Cheval Mercantile Lines, before being renamed Sutekh Merchants, until it was “sold” to the planet of Sutekh.
The RSMM and, it need not be said, Cheval Enterprises operate as fingers on the same hand, with both groups being more than willing to fight fairly or unfairly to keep up their profit margins. The RSMM has developed a reputation, based on their armored and well armed 1,999 ton Tradewinds for being very reliable in carrying high value cargo and passengers.
And Cheval Factors, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cheval Enterprises has offices at every starport in the sector where they have a reputation for snatching up speculative cargoes which turn out to be extremely profitable, but are also more than willing to drive competing firms out of business if they can.
While Ms. Cheval would not speak directly with us, her administrative assistant told the Gateway News Service that she was not declaring war on New Caledonia, she was merely speaking that she hoped they understood how much of their trade was carried by the RSMM, and would think carefully about hazarding that long standing relationship.
279-2510 Gateway News Service- Dustball
An Aslan trade mission has arrived to purchase Dustspice, and to investigate the possibility of their trading company obtaining title to several of the dustspice plantations. At this time, the Poobah’s government is not against the Aslans goal since they are purchasing large amounts of the spice, which is used by gourmets across the sector and is very highly prized.
The Aslans have developed an extreme fondness for this spice which is harvested from the bark of the dustspice bush which grows best in arid, rocky areas which generally are hard to get to, and harvesting is difficult. If the bush receives too much water it grows into a small tree and no longer produces spice of any quality, so farming of the plants is very difficult, but can be done by those willing to understand the needs of the bush.
Once they taste the spice, which has a euphoric effect on Aslans, very similar to catnip on Terran felines, they keep coming back to purchase the spice. While not addictive, it does have an effect that the Aslan appreciate, with some Aslan recently going so far as to classify the various plantations spice production in a similar way to the various coffee addicts judging their favorite coffees.
At this time the Matoshi Company is in negotiations with the Aslan for the purchase of refined minerals from the deep erg. The Aslan have opened a small trade station in Dry Gulch which is run by the M’Rist family. They are using this station not only to purchase Dustball goods, but to purchase items from Coffeeville, New Texas, and Gateway. The 78 Aslans here, are mainly the female Aslans who are sharp traders, and drive hard bargains.
Mr. Hiroshi Jutilannian, the largest owner of bushspice plantations on planet has said that he is completely against the Aslan owning any of the dustspice production or plantations since they would unfairly compete against those long established and knowledgeable producers of the dustspice. He and the Planters Association are taking the position that they will happily sell the Aslan as much as they can afford to purchase, but under no circumstances do they wish for the Poobah to grant licenses to the Aslan.
Mr. Lech Pilduski, who is the second largest planter on Dustball is taking the opposite tack from Mr. Jutilannian and he is willing to allow the Aslan to purchase land where they can try and grow the dustbush, which is difficult. He told GNS that he thinks that the Planters Association is seeing “fanged dust bunnies” under their beds, and the Aslan owning a few dustbush plantations will not be the end of the world.
The planters have been negotiating with the local natives to avoid any Aslan sales, since most of the plantations are near the mountains which lead into the desert they are also subject to raids from the desert tribes who do not like the civilized K’Grech or Humans too close to their tribal lands. The Aslan leader F’thaliea M’rist has said that he does not understand why the Planters Association is taking this stance, since the Aslan can work the same as humans and K’Grech and are willing to pay good money to purchase these plantations.
An Aslan trade mission has arrived to purchase Dustspice, and to investigate the possibility of their trading company obtaining title to several of the dustspice plantations. At this time, the Poobah’s government is not against the Aslans goal since they are purchasing large amounts of the spice, which is used by gourmets across the sector and is very highly prized.
The Aslans have developed an extreme fondness for this spice which is harvested from the bark of the dustspice bush which grows best in arid, rocky areas which generally are hard to get to, and harvesting is difficult. If the bush receives too much water it grows into a small tree and no longer produces spice of any quality, so farming of the plants is very difficult, but can be done by those willing to understand the needs of the bush.
Once they taste the spice, which has a euphoric effect on Aslans, very similar to catnip on Terran felines, they keep coming back to purchase the spice. While not addictive, it does have an effect that the Aslan appreciate, with some Aslan recently going so far as to classify the various plantations spice production in a similar way to the various coffee addicts judging their favorite coffees.
At this time the Matoshi Company is in negotiations with the Aslan for the purchase of refined minerals from the deep erg. The Aslan have opened a small trade station in Dry Gulch which is run by the M’Rist family. They are using this station not only to purchase Dustball goods, but to purchase items from Coffeeville, New Texas, and Gateway. The 78 Aslans here, are mainly the female Aslans who are sharp traders, and drive hard bargains.
Mr. Hiroshi Jutilannian, the largest owner of bushspice plantations on planet has said that he is completely against the Aslan owning any of the dustspice production or plantations since they would unfairly compete against those long established and knowledgeable producers of the dustspice. He and the Planters Association are taking the position that they will happily sell the Aslan as much as they can afford to purchase, but under no circumstances do they wish for the Poobah to grant licenses to the Aslan.
Mr. Lech Pilduski, who is the second largest planter on Dustball is taking the opposite tack from Mr. Jutilannian and he is willing to allow the Aslan to purchase land where they can try and grow the dustbush, which is difficult. He told GNS that he thinks that the Planters Association is seeing “fanged dust bunnies” under their beds, and the Aslan owning a few dustbush plantations will not be the end of the world.
The planters have been negotiating with the local natives to avoid any Aslan sales, since most of the plantations are near the mountains which lead into the desert they are also subject to raids from the desert tribes who do not like the civilized K’Grech or Humans too close to their tribal lands. The Aslan leader F’thaliea M’rist has said that he does not understand why the Planters Association is taking this stance, since the Aslan can work the same as humans and K’Grech and are willing to pay good money to purchase these plantations.
285-2510 Gateway News Service- Freedonia
Sir Richard Cochrane’s personal aircraft, a reproduction of something called an F-14D, was seized today, after Sir Richard “buzzed the tower” at Capstaad Field, despite being warned off due to “the pattern being full”. Sir Richard conducted a low level slightly less than supersonic pass by the tower which caused the senior controller to spill his morning beverage all over his shirt. Local police met Sir Richard and took the keys to the aircraft from him pending a hearing on his latest exploit.
Sir Richard Cochrane’s personal aircraft, a reproduction of something called an F-14D, was seized today, after Sir Richard “buzzed the tower” at Capstaad Field, despite being warned off due to “the pattern being full”. Sir Richard conducted a low level slightly less than supersonic pass by the tower which caused the senior controller to spill his morning beverage all over his shirt. Local police met Sir Richard and took the keys to the aircraft from him pending a hearing on his latest exploit.
287-2510 Gateway News Service- Freedonia
Sir Richard Cochrane was back in court today, and he was fined an eye watering 3,000 stellars for his latest incident. Sir Richard was admonished by the judge that she was getting sick and tired of seeing him in her court, and that the next time, she was going to send him off to the local jail for a week. The Judge, whose home is underneath Sir Richard’s usual flight path has been annoyed by the low level passes.
Sir Richard commented to the GNS after his trial; “Ach yon lassie, she is a bit annoyed since apparently she spilled her morning beverage on her wee skirt when I was flying, perhaps, a bit overly enthusiastically one fine mornin’.
We are told that Sir Richard assured the judge that he had learned his lesson, and would maintain a bit more of a healthy speed and attitude when he flew over her “wee cottage” at 0700 in the mornings. The judge is reported to have commented to the court asking “Will no one rid me of this troublesome pilot?”
We are told that Sir Richard is thinking of retiring his “F-14D” in favor of something called an “SR-71” which is even faster. He does have something else on order called an “F-4E” which Sir Richard described as a “triumph of thrust over aerodynamics”, and “proof that with big enough engines, even a brick can fly”.
Sir Richard Cochrane was back in court today, and he was fined an eye watering 3,000 stellars for his latest incident. Sir Richard was admonished by the judge that she was getting sick and tired of seeing him in her court, and that the next time, she was going to send him off to the local jail for a week. The Judge, whose home is underneath Sir Richard’s usual flight path has been annoyed by the low level passes.
Sir Richard commented to the GNS after his trial; “Ach yon lassie, she is a bit annoyed since apparently she spilled her morning beverage on her wee skirt when I was flying, perhaps, a bit overly enthusiastically one fine mornin’.
We are told that Sir Richard assured the judge that he had learned his lesson, and would maintain a bit more of a healthy speed and attitude when he flew over her “wee cottage” at 0700 in the mornings. The judge is reported to have commented to the court asking “Will no one rid me of this troublesome pilot?”
We are told that Sir Richard is thinking of retiring his “F-14D” in favor of something called an “SR-71” which is even faster. He does have something else on order called an “F-4E” which Sir Richard described as a “triumph of thrust over aerodynamics”, and “proof that with big enough engines, even a brick can fly”.
296-2510 Gateway News Service- Freedonia
Sir Richard Cochrane’s safari ship was searched by customs officers after an anonymous tip was received that Sir Richard had modified the vessel illegally with several so called “smugglers holds”. As the customs officials descended on the port where the Animal class ship was located, Sir Richard kindly unlocked the ship and allowed the customs officers free access to his vessel. He spoke to us wearing his usual Hawaiian shirt, cut offs, and deck shoes, along with his trademark straw hat telling GNS that he had nothing to worry about.
In his arms locker, they found several weapons whose possession is questionable, but not necessarily illegal. But they did caution Sir Richard that the plasma gun, gauss MG, and the 57mm Recoilless Rifle needed to stay locked up securely on board at all times. When asked what he was going to use those weapons for, Sir Richard, with a completely straight face, answered “Shooting really big critters”.
Considering that he takes parties to Canyon and other places to hunt the most dangerous game, his possession of these weapons is not out of the realm of the possible. We are being told that no such things as smugglers holds have been found on his ship. He did tell GNS that his newest aircraft the “F4E Phantom” had arrived and it was as good a reproduction as can be made. He said that he was going to be checking it out Real Soon Now.
Sir Richard Cochrane’s safari ship was searched by customs officers after an anonymous tip was received that Sir Richard had modified the vessel illegally with several so called “smugglers holds”. As the customs officials descended on the port where the Animal class ship was located, Sir Richard kindly unlocked the ship and allowed the customs officers free access to his vessel. He spoke to us wearing his usual Hawaiian shirt, cut offs, and deck shoes, along with his trademark straw hat telling GNS that he had nothing to worry about.
In his arms locker, they found several weapons whose possession is questionable, but not necessarily illegal. But they did caution Sir Richard that the plasma gun, gauss MG, and the 57mm Recoilless Rifle needed to stay locked up securely on board at all times. When asked what he was going to use those weapons for, Sir Richard, with a completely straight face, answered “Shooting really big critters”.
Considering that he takes parties to Canyon and other places to hunt the most dangerous game, his possession of these weapons is not out of the realm of the possible. We are being told that no such things as smugglers holds have been found on his ship. He did tell GNS that his newest aircraft the “F4E Phantom” had arrived and it was as good a reproduction as can be made. He said that he was going to be checking it out Real Soon Now.
301-2510 Gateway News Service- New Caledonia
The first of the colonists have departed New Caledonia for Skye and Loch Lomond. The 3.500 colonists are being transported on a chartered Gateway Shipping Colony Carrier, the Prometheus, which is one of the Zeus class colony ships left over from the early days of the colonization of the sector.
The Zeus class carriers can carry 15,000 colonists in cold sleep, plus cargo, and other equipment. The five surviving ships have been updated to J3 capability reducing their cargo and passenger capacity from the initial build capacity of 25,000. As the colonists arrive, a second carrier will drop off some military forces which will remain for a two year deployment on each world before being transferred back to New Caledonia.
Also an Espadiir station will be placed in orbit to handle starships arriving, the modular station will also have additional fuel modules attached, and are estimated to handle all system traffic for two years before being replaced by purpose built facilities. The modular Espadiir is a popular “starter” station for many worlds, with some still in service nearly 200 years later, but much modified.
The Hereditary Prince of New Caledonia and New Ireland has issued a statement that with these colony ventures, the New Caledonian Confederation is taking its first steps towards joining the other worlds as a power in the sector. The training for new colonists has been sped up, with the colonization ministry now wanting 50,000 settlers on each planet by the end of 2515.
The first of the colonists have departed New Caledonia for Skye and Loch Lomond. The 3.500 colonists are being transported on a chartered Gateway Shipping Colony Carrier, the Prometheus, which is one of the Zeus class colony ships left over from the early days of the colonization of the sector.
The Zeus class carriers can carry 15,000 colonists in cold sleep, plus cargo, and other equipment. The five surviving ships have been updated to J3 capability reducing their cargo and passenger capacity from the initial build capacity of 25,000. As the colonists arrive, a second carrier will drop off some military forces which will remain for a two year deployment on each world before being transferred back to New Caledonia.
Also an Espadiir station will be placed in orbit to handle starships arriving, the modular station will also have additional fuel modules attached, and are estimated to handle all system traffic for two years before being replaced by purpose built facilities. The modular Espadiir is a popular “starter” station for many worlds, with some still in service nearly 200 years later, but much modified.
The Hereditary Prince of New Caledonia and New Ireland has issued a statement that with these colony ventures, the New Caledonian Confederation is taking its first steps towards joining the other worlds as a power in the sector. The training for new colonists has been sped up, with the colonization ministry now wanting 50,000 settlers on each planet by the end of 2515.
302-2510 Gateway News Service- Miryan
Rumors are reaching us that several of the commercial operations which have set up trading stations on this world are now increasing the number of mercenaries being employed since in some areas the natives have turned increasingly hostile. Caledon Ventures has called for an additional 100 mercenaries to be hired for a two year contract.
Several species of plants and animals have shown the promise of commercial utilization, but the natives hold several of the more uncommon and hard to find plants as sacred to their religions, and there have been some confrontations between company harvesting parties, and the locals. We at GNS are being told that additional arms and ammunition are being shipped in along with additional hovercraft which are becoming a main form of transport due to the climatic conditions on Miryan.
The Xeno Institute on New Canberra has called for the government of New Caledonia to step in, since the companies area oppressing the natives, and destroying their culture by suddenly bringing in high technology to a barely TL 3 world. The sudden arrival of the “Sky Gods” has disrupted the normal pattern of native life, with the off worlders setting up compounds outside of the native cities. Xenologists have expressed concern that this will have a long term and lasting effect on the natives to their detriment.
Rumors are reaching us that several of the commercial operations which have set up trading stations on this world are now increasing the number of mercenaries being employed since in some areas the natives have turned increasingly hostile. Caledon Ventures has called for an additional 100 mercenaries to be hired for a two year contract.
Several species of plants and animals have shown the promise of commercial utilization, but the natives hold several of the more uncommon and hard to find plants as sacred to their religions, and there have been some confrontations between company harvesting parties, and the locals. We at GNS are being told that additional arms and ammunition are being shipped in along with additional hovercraft which are becoming a main form of transport due to the climatic conditions on Miryan.
The Xeno Institute on New Canberra has called for the government of New Caledonia to step in, since the companies area oppressing the natives, and destroying their culture by suddenly bringing in high technology to a barely TL 3 world. The sudden arrival of the “Sky Gods” has disrupted the normal pattern of native life, with the off worlders setting up compounds outside of the native cities. Xenologists have expressed concern that this will have a long term and lasting effect on the natives to their detriment.
304-2510 Gateway News Service- Freedonia
Sir Richard Cochrane has departed Freedonia for parts unknown at this time with a hunting party of four. His vessel has been fully stocked up with all the required goodies, and as he left, he did a quick fly past his beach front home since he “could not recall if he locked the door”. Freedonian authorities have promised to fine him once he returns for illegally parking a space craft in a no spacecraft zone.
His fly out after he checked his residence passed over the judges home and sent things swirling since it was a very low level pass in his ship. As traffic control questioned him, he said that he was sorry, he was looking at some “Fine Birds in full plumage” on the beach, and got distracted. The judge has declared that this time she is going to find some reason to put Sir Richard in jail for at least 30 days! He then departed for the jump limit with his passengers who were heard in the background having quite the party.
(NOTE: Sir Richard Cochrane, think Cary Grant in Father Goose, but with loud patterned Hawaiian shirts, a laser pistol in a cross-draw, khaki pants or cut offs, and deck shoes.)
Sir Richard Cochrane has departed Freedonia for parts unknown at this time with a hunting party of four. His vessel has been fully stocked up with all the required goodies, and as he left, he did a quick fly past his beach front home since he “could not recall if he locked the door”. Freedonian authorities have promised to fine him once he returns for illegally parking a space craft in a no spacecraft zone.
His fly out after he checked his residence passed over the judges home and sent things swirling since it was a very low level pass in his ship. As traffic control questioned him, he said that he was sorry, he was looking at some “Fine Birds in full plumage” on the beach, and got distracted. The judge has declared that this time she is going to find some reason to put Sir Richard in jail for at least 30 days! He then departed for the jump limit with his passengers who were heard in the background having quite the party.
(NOTE: Sir Richard Cochrane, think Cary Grant in Father Goose, but with loud patterned Hawaiian shirts, a laser pistol in a cross-draw, khaki pants or cut offs, and deck shoes.)
306-2510 Gateway News Service- Gateway
The Landing Improvement Council has given the authorization for the demolition of three large towers in the capital, which should be completed by 2512, to allow for the construction of the Arthur Niemoller-Grant residential and commercial tower. The 1,500 floor tower will boast 950 levels of residential units, and the remaining 550 levels will be shopping business, and mechanical systems.
The new tower is designed to be the centerpiece of Landing, and will tower 200 stories over the next largest tower. But as the council has stated, this is just the first of FOUR such towers to be completed in the Landing area by 2520. In a bid to allow for the expansion of the population, the Landing Improvement Council which is made up of local business leaders, appointed members, and government officials has decreed that Landing shall be remade into the “Golden Capital of the entire sector” by 2525.
Some, however are questioning not only the need for large scale urban renewal efforts like this since ceramacrete towers are practically impossible to demolish safely, but the need for buildings which are not only extremely expensive, but could be considered a vanity project for favored business interests. It appears that the Council has given the Gateway Corporation the contract to build all four towers in a sealed bidding process not open to outside review.
Mr. Neimoller-Grant is a long time financial supporter of certain political parties, and has been a power behind the throne on Gateway for a long time. His family owns approximately 6% of the Gateway Corporation, as well as large interests in other corporations making it one of the wealthiest families on Gateway.
It appears that the other towers which will form a quadrilateral are going to be named after wealthy citizens of Gateway or powerful politicians. When completed they will be the largest combined use structures in the sector.
The Landing Improvement Council has given the authorization for the demolition of three large towers in the capital, which should be completed by 2512, to allow for the construction of the Arthur Niemoller-Grant residential and commercial tower. The 1,500 floor tower will boast 950 levels of residential units, and the remaining 550 levels will be shopping business, and mechanical systems.
The new tower is designed to be the centerpiece of Landing, and will tower 200 stories over the next largest tower. But as the council has stated, this is just the first of FOUR such towers to be completed in the Landing area by 2520. In a bid to allow for the expansion of the population, the Landing Improvement Council which is made up of local business leaders, appointed members, and government officials has decreed that Landing shall be remade into the “Golden Capital of the entire sector” by 2525.
Some, however are questioning not only the need for large scale urban renewal efforts like this since ceramacrete towers are practically impossible to demolish safely, but the need for buildings which are not only extremely expensive, but could be considered a vanity project for favored business interests. It appears that the Council has given the Gateway Corporation the contract to build all four towers in a sealed bidding process not open to outside review.
Mr. Neimoller-Grant is a long time financial supporter of certain political parties, and has been a power behind the throne on Gateway for a long time. His family owns approximately 6% of the Gateway Corporation, as well as large interests in other corporations making it one of the wealthiest families on Gateway.
It appears that the other towers which will form a quadrilateral are going to be named after wealthy citizens of Gateway or powerful politicians. When completed they will be the largest combined use structures in the sector.
317-2510 Gateway News Service- New Texas
New Texas Shipyards announced that it had completed building the 250th Star Class 600 ton liner which is the most popular small liner used by many ship lines in the sector. The Star Class is a license built ship from the Terran Yards on old Earth. The class has a crew of 9, and can carry 21 passengers in cabins, with 10 in low berths. It also has a cargo capacity of 129 tons. Upgraded over the years, roughly 2/3rds of the class has been upgraded with the newest Jump 3 engines. The 1g drive is pretty much commercial standard.
The yards tell us that they have orders for 20 more Star Class II ships which are completely TL 12 build ships which will then be taken to fitting out yards so that the owners can customize the ships to their personal specifications.
The weakness of the class has always been is its lack of streamlining, and so requires an orbital port to dock. While it can land on the surface, it takes much longer due to the need to keep speed down to avoid overheating. That is why it handles routes which have orbital ports to allow for more easy access for its passengers. As lines expand and purchase newer ships, the older Star class ships get passed down to smaller and smaller lines, some of which operate just one of these classic workhorse ships.
In one of the odder configuration options, at least six of the ships have been modified the New Texas yards to act as command ships for mercenary units, and orbital reconnaissance craft. These ships have all the low berths removed, along with 29 tons of cargo space and instead have battle centers, and intelligence stations added. So far this has proven more effective than pundits originally thought, and New Texas Yards spokesmen tell us that five more older ships have been brought in for the same upgrades.
Another popular modification is that of science vessel for several universities, with the Chandra Yards in the Gateway system having converted over a dozen into mobile astronomic exploration craft. The low berths are removed along with 39 tons of cargo space and additional scientific equipment is installed. These ships which are considered their own class as this point are the Alcyone Class, named after nebulae.
Five ships have been modified by Gateway Yards as personal yachts, with every possible luxury fitting that can be installed on a ship. The size and capacity of these ships have caused eleven others to look at having one modified. We have been told that Bilmont Cockvalve has ordered one himself.
Perhaps another popular mod are the three ships operated by the Gateway News Service as mobile broadcast stations, which can be rapidly moved from system to system as breaking news occurs. We are told that other news agencies are looking at purchasing Journalist class ships for their own use.
The strangest use for a Star class is found on Ultima Thule, where a grounded Star class was transported to the waterfront, and is being used as a hotel for collector ship crews, the ship, formerly the SS Minnow has had its drive rooms gutted, and turned into extra sleeping areas, and the ship has become the Waterfront Hotel. Popular not only with ship crews, but with those off world tourists who want to rub elbows with the crews to get a little “street cred” before venturing out on one of the collector ships that take tourists. Its cargo spaces have also been used for both cabins, and for the “Mega Whale Disco” a hot party spot.
The Star Class, not just for passenger travel anymore, a very well respected and modern ship that has multiple uses. New Texas Shipyards has a winner on its hands with this ship, and it looks like production will continue for some time, since it is a good combination of capability and reasonable price for many.
New Texas Shipyards announced that it had completed building the 250th Star Class 600 ton liner which is the most popular small liner used by many ship lines in the sector. The Star Class is a license built ship from the Terran Yards on old Earth. The class has a crew of 9, and can carry 21 passengers in cabins, with 10 in low berths. It also has a cargo capacity of 129 tons. Upgraded over the years, roughly 2/3rds of the class has been upgraded with the newest Jump 3 engines. The 1g drive is pretty much commercial standard.
The yards tell us that they have orders for 20 more Star Class II ships which are completely TL 12 build ships which will then be taken to fitting out yards so that the owners can customize the ships to their personal specifications.
The weakness of the class has always been is its lack of streamlining, and so requires an orbital port to dock. While it can land on the surface, it takes much longer due to the need to keep speed down to avoid overheating. That is why it handles routes which have orbital ports to allow for more easy access for its passengers. As lines expand and purchase newer ships, the older Star class ships get passed down to smaller and smaller lines, some of which operate just one of these classic workhorse ships.
In one of the odder configuration options, at least six of the ships have been modified the New Texas yards to act as command ships for mercenary units, and orbital reconnaissance craft. These ships have all the low berths removed, along with 29 tons of cargo space and instead have battle centers, and intelligence stations added. So far this has proven more effective than pundits originally thought, and New Texas Yards spokesmen tell us that five more older ships have been brought in for the same upgrades.
Another popular modification is that of science vessel for several universities, with the Chandra Yards in the Gateway system having converted over a dozen into mobile astronomic exploration craft. The low berths are removed along with 39 tons of cargo space and additional scientific equipment is installed. These ships which are considered their own class as this point are the Alcyone Class, named after nebulae.
Five ships have been modified by Gateway Yards as personal yachts, with every possible luxury fitting that can be installed on a ship. The size and capacity of these ships have caused eleven others to look at having one modified. We have been told that Bilmont Cockvalve has ordered one himself.
Perhaps another popular mod are the three ships operated by the Gateway News Service as mobile broadcast stations, which can be rapidly moved from system to system as breaking news occurs. We are told that other news agencies are looking at purchasing Journalist class ships for their own use.
The strangest use for a Star class is found on Ultima Thule, where a grounded Star class was transported to the waterfront, and is being used as a hotel for collector ship crews, the ship, formerly the SS Minnow has had its drive rooms gutted, and turned into extra sleeping areas, and the ship has become the Waterfront Hotel. Popular not only with ship crews, but with those off world tourists who want to rub elbows with the crews to get a little “street cred” before venturing out on one of the collector ships that take tourists. Its cargo spaces have also been used for both cabins, and for the “Mega Whale Disco” a hot party spot.
The Star Class, not just for passenger travel anymore, a very well respected and modern ship that has multiple uses. New Texas Shipyards has a winner on its hands with this ship, and it looks like production will continue for some time, since it is a good combination of capability and reasonable price for many.
318-2510 Gateway News Service- Xanadu
Jinyu Chen, formerly president of Xanadu Bank of Commerce has announced her retirement from the bank which she has led so well for the last 65 years. Mrs Chen, who is married, and the mother of four, was rumored to have been the lover of the late Dorian Cheval when he was still just a captain for McVickers Lines. She was critical for the Cheval family during the dark times of 2472-2481 when Cheval was in a trade war with the now defunct Tukera Lines.
She is the daughter of Chen Wan-Pi, who led the bank through its tempestuous early days of growth from just another bank into the financial powerhouse that it is today. The bank has its hand in insurance, brokerage, stocks and bond trading, as well a interstellar banking. Second only to the Bank of Gateway in power, and assets, the bank is known throughout as “The Rock of Xanadu” for its very sound, if somewhat conservative financial practices.
The new President and Managing Director will be her son Lau Pei Sho, who has been working in the insurance and investment portions of the bank for the last 45 years. He is known to favor his mother’s policies, and is seen as a safe choice to keep the bank in its preeminent position in the sector.
Also in news from Xanadu, it appears that the workers strike on Dinom in the Beta Sector has succeeded in taking over the planet, and the company management who have been taken captive are being released under a deal brokered by the Sector governor, with the workers receiving an amnesty so long as they pledge loyalty to Xanadu. The workers have resoundingly agreed to this offer, as long as the company is not allowed to come back and run the planet.
Reports are that the Shang’s World Chartered Company is hiring mercenaries in an effort to retake the world since they own it according to their charter. The Xanadu government has not yet expressed any opinion on the legality of this move, nor have they stopped the company from hiring armed groups to attempt a reconquest of their corporate holdings on Shang’s World.
In other confusing rumors from Shang’s world, it appears that several members of the Red Phoenix gang have been made to go “walkabout” on the surface of this world without the benefit of vacc suits. The Red Phoenix was hired as strike breakers, and intimidation by the company in an attempt to suppress labor unrest.
We have learned today that Miss Anna Kim has returned to Xanadu. She was spotted leaving customs at the Xanadu downport where she had disembarked from the King Richard liner she had traveled upon to Xanadu. She was met at the downport by several police inspectors, and escorted by her security detail, was whisked off to police headquarters where she was interviewed for six hours.
She then checked into the Imperial Xanadu Hilton where she took the penthouse apartment for her stay on Xanadu. She was met by lawyers from all of her business and foundation interests and we are told that meetings went on until late in the evening.
We attempted to speak with police to get some details of what Miss Kim’s meeting was about, but they declined to speak with us, and our confidential sources were unable to provide any information regarding the subject of the interview. We know that the police have another interview scheduled with her later in the week. The security around her penthouse is exceptionally tight and provided by JSS security.
Jinyu Chen, formerly president of Xanadu Bank of Commerce has announced her retirement from the bank which she has led so well for the last 65 years. Mrs Chen, who is married, and the mother of four, was rumored to have been the lover of the late Dorian Cheval when he was still just a captain for McVickers Lines. She was critical for the Cheval family during the dark times of 2472-2481 when Cheval was in a trade war with the now defunct Tukera Lines.
She is the daughter of Chen Wan-Pi, who led the bank through its tempestuous early days of growth from just another bank into the financial powerhouse that it is today. The bank has its hand in insurance, brokerage, stocks and bond trading, as well a interstellar banking. Second only to the Bank of Gateway in power, and assets, the bank is known throughout as “The Rock of Xanadu” for its very sound, if somewhat conservative financial practices.
The new President and Managing Director will be her son Lau Pei Sho, who has been working in the insurance and investment portions of the bank for the last 45 years. He is known to favor his mother’s policies, and is seen as a safe choice to keep the bank in its preeminent position in the sector.
Also in news from Xanadu, it appears that the workers strike on Dinom in the Beta Sector has succeeded in taking over the planet, and the company management who have been taken captive are being released under a deal brokered by the Sector governor, with the workers receiving an amnesty so long as they pledge loyalty to Xanadu. The workers have resoundingly agreed to this offer, as long as the company is not allowed to come back and run the planet.
Reports are that the Shang’s World Chartered Company is hiring mercenaries in an effort to retake the world since they own it according to their charter. The Xanadu government has not yet expressed any opinion on the legality of this move, nor have they stopped the company from hiring armed groups to attempt a reconquest of their corporate holdings on Shang’s World.
In other confusing rumors from Shang’s world, it appears that several members of the Red Phoenix gang have been made to go “walkabout” on the surface of this world without the benefit of vacc suits. The Red Phoenix was hired as strike breakers, and intimidation by the company in an attempt to suppress labor unrest.
We have learned today that Miss Anna Kim has returned to Xanadu. She was spotted leaving customs at the Xanadu downport where she had disembarked from the King Richard liner she had traveled upon to Xanadu. She was met at the downport by several police inspectors, and escorted by her security detail, was whisked off to police headquarters where she was interviewed for six hours.
She then checked into the Imperial Xanadu Hilton where she took the penthouse apartment for her stay on Xanadu. She was met by lawyers from all of her business and foundation interests and we are told that meetings went on until late in the evening.
We attempted to speak with police to get some details of what Miss Kim’s meeting was about, but they declined to speak with us, and our confidential sources were unable to provide any information regarding the subject of the interview. We know that the police have another interview scheduled with her later in the week. The security around her penthouse is exceptionally tight and provided by JSS security.
322-2510 Gateway News Service- Hades Station
Repairs and upgrades have finally been completed after all of the damage caused by the Black Sun attack on the station. The Oligarchy who rules Hades Station held a celebration across the station to celebrate the last repairs. With this all of the docking arms are back in operation, as are the docking bays. Traffic has started to return to normal, and increase since Hades Station is no offering repairs and annual maintenance for ships up to 3,000 tons in size.
To the joy of the occupants of the station, the Wombat Burger stores offered a special deal to celebrate, with a Bingo Burger, medium fries, and a large drink for the regular price of just the burger. The stores were at capacity with lines stretching down the corridor as people lined up to get their take out orders. The Aslans who have moved to the station were bemused by this, but they also lined up for their Aslan Special burgers.
We are seeing more traffic moving through the station as ships move to and from the Ultima Thule subsector, and several carriers have elected to use the station as a way point as they are hauling whale pus to Xanadu for processing since using the Hades Station route cuts a full two weeks off of the time needed to get to Xanadu from Ultima Thule. As a result, station revenues are up considerably which has been popular as more legitimate cargoes are beginning to move through the station.
Hiver and Droyne trading missions have set up shop on the station, and the Hivers are selling curios and artifacts from their worlds, but nothing at higher than TL 12. The Droyne are looking at higher tech equipment, mostly TL 11 since their worlds are TL 9/10. The Droyne have ships arriving twice a month on the station, which shows their interest in good duty free goods that they cannot obtain legally anywhere else.
Repairs and upgrades have finally been completed after all of the damage caused by the Black Sun attack on the station. The Oligarchy who rules Hades Station held a celebration across the station to celebrate the last repairs. With this all of the docking arms are back in operation, as are the docking bays. Traffic has started to return to normal, and increase since Hades Station is no offering repairs and annual maintenance for ships up to 3,000 tons in size.
To the joy of the occupants of the station, the Wombat Burger stores offered a special deal to celebrate, with a Bingo Burger, medium fries, and a large drink for the regular price of just the burger. The stores were at capacity with lines stretching down the corridor as people lined up to get their take out orders. The Aslans who have moved to the station were bemused by this, but they also lined up for their Aslan Special burgers.
We are seeing more traffic moving through the station as ships move to and from the Ultima Thule subsector, and several carriers have elected to use the station as a way point as they are hauling whale pus to Xanadu for processing since using the Hades Station route cuts a full two weeks off of the time needed to get to Xanadu from Ultima Thule. As a result, station revenues are up considerably which has been popular as more legitimate cargoes are beginning to move through the station.
Hiver and Droyne trading missions have set up shop on the station, and the Hivers are selling curios and artifacts from their worlds, but nothing at higher than TL 12. The Droyne are looking at higher tech equipment, mostly TL 11 since their worlds are TL 9/10. The Droyne have ships arriving twice a month on the station, which shows their interest in good duty free goods that they cannot obtain legally anywhere else.
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