Inter-Galactic News

Issue 53, November/December 1999

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Outer-Comm.

To: All
From: Lord JJ Vandenberg Chief Justice of CIA Langley

Last week a violation of the security procedures at CIA Langley resulted in the boarding and impounding of a Surveyor that landed in the starport without prior written consent. A fair and impartial trialwas held and the following judgement is hereby recorded.
The Accused is found guilty of improper conduct and to be in violation of CIA security procedures. The mandatory sentence of 10 years slave labour is commuted to a fine of 2000 stellars per hull fine and a 52 week banning of the starcaptain from the Darkfold system. Violation of this ban will result in the immediate destruction of the ship and all lifeforms aboard.
This leniency cannot be expected by any other starcaptain in the peripheries who violate the CIA landing procedures and only the exceptional circumstances surrounding this landing has prevented this starcaptain and crew adding to the already high productivity of this capital colony.

46/199 - FET COLONY OPENS FIRE ON DTR STARSHIPS

Madonna - Years of peaceful co-existence between the Detinus Republic and the Imperial power block in the Capellan periphery were put to an end this week. DTR Nebulon Quicksilver was patrolling space lanes and orbits in the Madonna system for possible pirate activities when it was attacked without warning by the FET colony Lair. The Quicksilver sent of a distress call that was answered by over 30 DTR warships; unfortunately they could not prevent the dereliction of the Quicksilver by a chance hit to the command section, which killed Lt. Vlad Romanov and 23 crew aboard his ship. Although the DTR rescue fleet had orders to target the naval ring of FET Lair it is believed that collateral damage effectively destroyed the entire colony, killing thousands of residents. This is the second time that a FET colony gouvernor has sacrificed the population of an ill-equipped, poorly shielded and predominantly civilean colony by prompting a military confrontation without reason. It is hoped that the FET will reconsider their overly militaristic attitude and leave policing of IMP space to the IMP fleet who will presumably have more military expertise, common sense and awareness of the legal situation.
DPB, Porta Capella

To: Admiral H.P. Simms, Baron of Baranov, Imperial Viceroy of the Capellan Periphery; B.A. Rister, Secretary of State for Legal Affairs
From: The Magistrate of the Detinus Republic as lawyer of the relatives of the crew and officers killed aboard
DTR Nebulon Quicksilver (EEM Registry 2403);
DTR Nebulon Bloody Mary (EEM Registry 2079);
DTR Nebulon Terminator (EEM Registry 2963) and
DTR Nebulon Between the Sheets (EEM Registry: 4123);
as lawyer and as representative of the DTR Stellar Armada; as representative of the Detinus Republic
Carbon Copy: Frontier Exploration & Trade Periphery Director General Public

In week 46/199 DTR Nebulon Quicksilver (2403) ventured into orbit of the moon Joe in the Madonna system. Immediately upon entering orbit the ship was scanned, tracked and engaged by the orbital defence system of the resident colony FET Lair (3415). Although they were aware of the hostile intent of the colony the crew could do nothing to divert the course of their ship as they raced along their orbital path into the firing arc of the colony. They were able, however, to send a distress call which was answered by 32 DTR starships. These, too, were engaged by the colony. In the ensuing exchange of fire several DTR vessels took damage; DTR Quicksilver was derelicted and several other starships took casualties among their crew.
The Magistrate of the Detinus Republic hereby calls upon the Imperial legislative powers to judge the case. On behalf of the families and relatives of the crew and officers of the aforementioned ships, of the DTR Stellar Armada as the legal proprietor of the ships and of the Detinus Republic in general this office demands

1. a) Confirmation that the DTR had the right to freely enter the orbit of Joe and that the FET colony had no right nor reason to attack DTR ships;
b) Confirmation that the attack was initiated by FET Lair;
c) Confirmation that all DTR ships involved in the battle were subject to FET aggression and merely defending themselves;
d) Confirmation that, in summary, the FET colony is solely responsible for the incident;
2. Confirmation that this FET aggression led to the loss of lives and the loss of damage and property of the DTR;
3. That the FET are sentenced
a) To compensate the families and relatives of the DTR personnell killed in the incident; the amount of compensation is to be determined by the IMP Judicary;
b) To compensate the DTR for the loss of items at 10 Stellars per MU;
c) To compensate the DTR for damage to items at 5 Stellars per MU;
d) To compensate the DTR for the costs of repairing the damaged ships;
e) To compensate the DTR for the cost of a military emergency sortie of 32 ships at 1000 Stellars per ship;
f) If the concept of punitive damages is applicable, an adequate punitive compensation.

A detailed list of the casualties and damages incurred will be made available shortly. At the same it is hereby formally pointed out to the Imperial public prosecution authorities that the DTR believe the colony gouvernor and the FET Board of Directors have committed a criminal act of recklessness, negligence or omission when they allowed a FET colony in Imperial space to maintain "All DTR" on their enemy list.
If the IMP Judicary decides that they are not responsible for this case and that the FET have to be sued under DTR law a notification is requested.
For the greater glory of the Republic, Ronald E. Silver, Magistrate of the Detinus Republic.

To: All
From: AFT Justice Department

AFT Justice Department does hereby issue a 1k stellars award for accurate information on the whereabouts of Ivan the Gambler. He was last seen outside the Cathedral of Cemetary Hill engaged in a fist fight with other Ceremony attendants and the words "Freedom City" and "stupid" ware heard repeatedly. Witnesses report that Ivan was brought to the hospital but the triggering condition is not known. It may have been severe intoxication, broken limbs or a combination of both.
The personal beacon worn by Ivan was found under a bed in the hospital, but none of the nurses recognize him on the pictures they're shown (although several of the more beautiful nurses blushed heavily).
The reward can be claimed by anyone who either bring Ivan back alive to his ship, or can provide the information necessary to locate him.
Let it be known that Ivan is a trained soldier and very dangerous when in bad mood. He is tall (192-195 cm) and very strong. He wears a scar on his left cheek and has a slightly blurred voice. Most probably location is recreation complexes and liquor stores.
AFT would like to officially apologize for the behaviour of Ivan during the Ceremony. He is used to see each person double, but six of them were too much.

##OPEN BROADCAST##

CIA Security has submitted their reports on the goods "removed" from Ivan when he arrived at CNF Cemetary Hill. We wish it made clear that the "young lady" travelling with him was not arrested as claimed - rather relocated to comfortable quarters to await the completion of Ivans official engagement. She is apparently starting to get a bit lonely though has had numerous offers of companionship.
There is, however, some concern for the health of Ivan as his personal vodka stocks have finally been tallied and it is estimated that he brought enough along to get the entire population of Cemetary Hill smashed. The good citizens and other choice personnel are currently assessing the quality of his stock but it may take some time. Security teams are currently using advanced breathalisers to sweep the colony for Ivan but numerous false readings are slowing thier progress.
Samuel Toridan, CIA Director General (1673).

THE VICEROY'S COURT OF CIVIL CLAIMS JUDGE HERONIMIOUS JEFFRIES
PRESIDING JUDGEMENT IN THE CASE OF
DETINUS REPUBLIC (DTR) v FRONTIER EXPLORATION AND TRADE (FET)

The Plaintiff has alleged that a hostile act was perpetrated against their Starships by a colony of the Defendant whilst pursuing their lawful occasions within the borders of the Imperial Stellar Empire, Capellan periphery, and that the said hostile act caused actual damage to their Starships and involved them in sundry expenses. The Defendant has placed a counter claim for actual damage caused to their colony by Starships of the Plaintiff.

The court finds that such a hostile act did take place and that the said hostile act was initiated by the FET Colony Lair (3415) on the Planet Joe in the Madonna 149 System. The resultant battle has placed the Governor of the said colony beyond the bounds of human justice but his Affiliation are deemed to be responsible for any damages awarded against the colony.

In the matter of damage to the DTR Nebulon Quicksilver (2403) the court finds the FET fully responsible as all such damage arose directly and solely out of their colony's hostile act.

In the matter of damage to sundry other Starships of the DTR, the court finds that the damage was caused as a result of a voluntary decision by the DTR to move the ships into the orbit of the planet Joe when already aware that the said orbit appeared to be hostile to them. It is reasonable to assume that experienced commanders must have assessed the risk of damage to several of the ships arriving after the initial incident in the event of a firefight with the colony. Since the DTR knowingly and deliberately moved the said ships into harms way the FET are deemed to have no liability for the damage caused to Starships of the DTR ordered into the orbit of Joe after the arrival of the DTR Nebulon Quicksilver (2403) and on receipt of a request for help.

In the matter of expenses arising from the movement of sundry Starships to support and defend the DTR Nebulon Quicksilver (2403) the court finds that such ships as were moved at the command of the DTR Fleet Commanders and would not have been moved had such orders not been voluntarily given by the said fleet commanders. The FET are therefore deemed not to be liable for reimbursing the DTR for the cost of this move on the grounds that it took place solely as a result of a decision by the DTR.

No evidence has been submitted to the effect that the hostile act initiated by the FET Colony Lair (3415) was anything but the result of either criminal intent or negligence on the part of the Governor of the said colony. Nor has any evidence been submitted to the effect that the hostile act initiated by the FET Colony Lair (3415) was in any way at the behest of the FET Board of Directors or of any policies promulgated by the said board of directors.

The court finds that the FET are not liable to punitive damages for the actions of their aberrant colony Governor because the DTR, in spite of having time to move a fleet of ships to the orbit of the planet Joe, failed to inform the Imperial Authorities of the impending battle and so precluded any possibility of the incident being closed before the onset of a firefight.

In the matter of the counter claim by the FET for compensation for damage to their colony Lair (3415) the court finds that the DTR are not liable for the damage to the said colony, which arose directly and solely from the criminal intent or negligence of their colony governor.

The Court is Adjouned pending the provision of pre and post battle manifests, the latter also showing hull damage, for the DTR Nebulon Quicksilver (2403) in order that the court may assess the level of damages to be levied against the FET. The court will hold any such information provided to be confidential to the court.

To: All
From: Eclypse Handelskammare AB

AFT can report that Ivan the Gambler has returned to his ship and has left the Darkfold system safely.
AFT would like to extend our gratitude to Jordan Roswell and CNF for inviting us to the ceremony, Sam Toridan and CIA for the (cough) protection of Svetlana the big boobed whore, Brother Cecil and BHD for the splendid religious experience, and finally Jasil and Samuel for their presence.
AFT would also like to thank the crew of BHD Vengeance for the rescue of Ivan the Gambler from the violent mob that kept following him around. It is not known where Ivan stashed the 5k he 'won'. AFT will not comment on the rumor of what clothing Ivan wore, or rather didn't wear, when he was located. AFT External Security Branch within AFT Justice Department is currently investigating Dodgy Dave's involvement in Ivan's hiding on Creche. This investigation is severely delayed due to the key witness's violent eruptions each time DD is mentioned.

To: Former Contact
From: Lord Eonneh

In this time of crisis, the Clan Council have permitted the exiled Clan Eonneh to mobilize. The Clan is looking forward to exchanging opinions/views with the DEN/DOM once again.
Lord Eonneh sends greetings to all former contacts in the Imperial affiliations, the Darkfold and our alien friends. Although no longer the head of the Clans, Clan Eonneh plans to make a healthy contribution to the Clan War effort. AKA Gordon Christensen, Jyllingevej 31 1 th., 2720 Vanloese, Denmark. gordonib@worldonline.dk

To: All
From : J'tar Xalenii, Hexamon Swarmlord.

Greetings, as of stardate 48.199 the Hexamon has lawfully claimed the system of Wastelands (175), and the claim is lawfully registered with the EEM as Hexamon sovereign territory. It should be noted that this claim was not made by force and all colonies setup prior to stardate 48.199 are allowed to stay and will remain unaffected by our claim. It should be noted, however, that with immediate effect the planet of Sahara is off limit to all affiliations. Any outposts built on Saraha prior to stardate 48.199 are allowed to stay and you'll get permission to land at said sector provided that you register your outposts with the Hexamon. You don't have to tell us the location of said outpost(s) just the outpost ID number will do! Any outposts not registered with the Hexamon will be claimed. Outposts built elsewhere in Wastelands remain unaffected and do not need to be registered. Nor do you need permission to setup additional outposts. Anyone wanting to setup colonies in the Wastelands has to file for permission to do so. But if you are friendly to the HXM then this is a mere formality and permission will be granted without delay. Wastelands is Tax free too. Above all, the Wastelands will continue to be an open system and all transit of said system will remain open to all and the Hexamon hope to establish friendly relation to all affiliations, even former enemies.
A complete copy of Hexamon law will be issued when ready.
Contact: Bent Nielsen, Slarisdal 16 d, 8700 Horsens, Denmark. Email: hexamon@worldonline.dk.

##CNN SPECIAL PROGRAM##
##OPEN BROADCAST TO THE PERIPHERIES##


[The view is an orbital shot of the planet Creche in the Darkfold system. The heart of the Confederacy. The planets orbit is full of some of humanities biggest and most impressive ships. All the human affiliations seem to represented - Confederate, Imperial and others.]

[The scene changes to the bottom of a Hiport. This one seems to be built into some sort of tunnel. Dignitaries are seen arriving and are met by Confederate Diplomats who escort the guests down a wide Thorlium strengthened and red carpeted tunnel. Flanking the tunnel on both sides is a line of CNF Startroopers, their pristine Power Armour gleaming. The camera follows the last guest to arrive.

[As the dignitary and diplomat walk down the tunnel it becomes obvious that it leads from the bottom of the Hiport directly to the a huge Cathedral. The guest gasps involuntarily as he beholds the Cathedral. The Emperor's last resting place dominates the skyline with gothic splendour, dwarfing even the shipyards. Sweeping arches and decorative buttresses are lit day and night to remind the populace of the True One's favour. Rounding the final corner it gets even more awe-inspiring. The two open doors reveal a portal large enough to admit a Battleship. They enter into a truly massive hall decorated with scenes of humanity's greatest triumphs while images of the True One gaze down from the ceiling and stained glass windows bestowing his blessing upon those present.]

[The cameras pan the scene and zooms in on the waiting officials that line the hall.]

Representing the Confederacy are, Samuel High Lord of the Confederacy and Zeus who despite having no official rank is the person closest to Samuel. Ranked out next to them are three chairs, presumably for Jordan Roswell, Supreme Commander of Confederate forces within the Peripheries, Brother Cecil, Patriarch of the Brotherhood and Sam Toridan, Director General of the Confederate Intelligence Agency. Behind these are a number of governors and poltical's from the Confederacy. Amongst them though is one wearing the old style uniform of the United Empire. This can only be Duke West of the Imperial Terra Surveyors.

Representing the Imperial Empire are, Jasil, Emperor to the Imperial Empire. On his right is H.P. Simms, Viceroy of the Imperial Periphery. To his left is Phillipa Beumont, governor of Hypso and head of EEM assets within the periphery. Behind these are Zuvoru Norozov, Exec VP of Frontier Exploration and trade and Ian Cunningham, Company Commander of Stellar Mining and Smelting.

Representing the Association of Free Traders is Ivan the Gambler as Honest Ted met his end some months ago. Ivan is now in a terrible mood since he was relieved of his vodka and personal pleasure slave by the startroopers after exiting the Hiport. Still he is completely blasted on some narcotic so is probably unaware of quite what is happening.

Apparently nobody is representing the Detinus Republic since, the commentator informs you, all the delegates were arrested when they stepped out of the Hiport. Rumour has it though that Lord Abraham Crowthorne has demanded their release in time for the ceremony. As they are not here, it would seem that the CIA security have other ignored the request if it is true.

[The commentator comments further on the unseemly arrest of all the Detinus Republic ambassadors and the scene cuts back to the reception point at the Hiport. A caption comes up indicating this was recorded earlier]

[The DTR captain, Seamus O'Malley, head of the opposition party, and 16 other DTR officials are disembarked at the Hiport. They have come instead of Abraham Crowthorne. Some rather grim looking Startroopers and CNF soldiers peruse the diplomats with blank expressions while they wait to be announced. Finally they are arrested instead. Apparently the orders are, if the name is not on the list, they are to be detained. There are no visitors and they do not get to witness the ceremony. As can be expected they do not look too impressed with this turn of events. They are seen being marched away and then the camera cuts back to the live broadcast from the Cathedral.]

[The service begins]

At the appointed time a concealed organ starts and a selection of hymns are taken up by the NHC Monks that are to help the Brotherhood tend to the last emperor. As the hymns slowly build to a climax you turn to see what is happening at the back. A procession is slowly approaching the entrance to the Cathedral. At the head stands Jordan Roswell and Brother Cecil while behind them are troops from the Patriarch's personal bodyguard carrying the coffin flanked by an honour guard of elite CNF troopers. As the cortege enters the hall Sam Toridan of the CIA joins the back of the procession and the massive Thorlium Doors swing tightly shut behind him. The coffin is carried to a point before the altar and then the troops file off silently to their places at the back of the congregation. Roswell and Sam Toridan take their seats at the front of the congregation while Brother Cecil ascends to the altar. The service commences with a eulogy for Emperor Paul detailing his many great qualities and highlighting his triumphs while he ruled the unified empire. The speech has been carefully written to ensure that none present can draw political points from it and take offence. After the song of praise Brother Cecil starts the prayers to the True One, giving thanks for Paul's life and achievements and for returning his body to his heirs so he may be buried in more fitting surroundings and on consecrated ground. After exhorting the True One to look kindly upon his soul and admit him to paradise the coffin is carried to the chamber behind the altar. This chamber is decorated with scenes from the Emperor's triumphs, highlighted in Precious Metals and twelve statues surround the plinth where the coffin will rest. After a final benediction the party returns to the main body of the church. The monks take their places kneeling before the altar and Brother Cecil takes his seat behind from where he watches the congregation.

[Jordan G Roswell, CNF Supreme Commander, slowly gets to his feet and climbs the steps up to the great pulpit and rests his hands on the pages that stare up at him, taking a slow breath and looking at the Congregation he speaks]

"It is with great reverence, and peace of mind that we, humanities children, can finally lay the body of one of our great fathers, Emperor Paul XXVII, to an eternity of undisturbed rest."
[Motioning to Paul's body, Jordan continues]
"This great man, born the son of Justin, and raised the Imperial way was well educated on life and fully prepared for his bloodline role, which he did not undertake until in his early sixties. Thus when his father died and Paul succeeded the throne, he was a wise and passionate ruler. The Empire had been his life and love and he did all in his power to keep humanity together, though it worried him that he had no heir to his throne to carry on his good work, something that the Noble houses were licking their lips about."
[Smiling reverently Roswell continues]
"Paul was not one for marriage, wedlock not being as strong in the churches eyes as it used to be. It gave Paul one less hassle in his life and he chose to take concubines instead. Paul was seen at many official functions with a different patriotic secretary on his arm, yet it would not be his playboy image that humanity remembers him by. In his late sixties, Paul was finally granted a son by a women hand-picked for her perfection. He was named Samuel. The Empire was unaware of this child as he was thought to have perished in an explosion along with his mother just after the birth. Paul did not see the sense in bereaving his empire, so he grieved in private."
[Motioning to the Usurper, er I mean the Emperor Jasil]
"His bereavement was helped by the birth of a second son, Jasil who Paul doted on. But the birth was again overshadowed by tragedy. Jasils mother, another lady picked for perfection died in a freak flitter accident, leaving Paul and the Empire to raise Jasil. Now with an heir to the throne, Paul's worries were over. The Empire was in a time of peace and humanities future looked prosperous. Jasil was educated at the same schools that his father had attended and carefully indoctrinated to the Imperial way. Paul was as good a father as he was an emperor, loving and understanding, his son needed for nothing and he grew up the image of his father."
[Roswell expresses his pain in his next statement]
"When Paul was in his eightieth birth year he suffered a mild stroke, the catalyst of numerous health problems that were to follow over the coming years. Jasil always the pillar of strength to his father, took on more of his father duties, but by Jasils 22nd birth year he was practically running the empire. Paul's body had been battered by numerous health problems, from heart attacks to Saturn fever, he was not expected to last for more than a few weeks."
[Jordan now focuses on his lord, Samuel sitting at the front]
"It was at this time that the New Harmony Church requested an audience with the Emperor and brought forth Samuel, Paul's first son, thought perished 23 years back. Paul was overcome with joy and called for his second born to meet his long lost brother. The reunion happened behind closed doors and thus began the split of humanity. Paul eventually died a quiet, respectful and natural death and his body was thought burnt at the pyre. This is considered a most uneasy time in the Empires history and so two close friends and confidants to Emperor Paul moved his body to a secure location and replaced it with a Martyr to the cause."
[Spoken with empathy and respect Roswell continues]
"Emperor Paul had lived a quiet but meaningful life, he dedicated his life work to keeping peace and unification to the Empire and he is apart of us all, some more than most and some differently to others. If his death contradicted his life then something was amiss and Paul would not be at rest in eternal sleep knowing this. Hence we had to disturb a great man, a caring human being who would have been deeply disturbed by his legacy. Emperor Paul we are sorry for this, but we have your memory to preserve and uphold, I think you would have willed it."
[Roswell again takes in the congregation, and picking up his pages he steps down from the pulpit. The service again goes back to Brother Cecil who now conducts the final stages of the ceremony with hymns and uplifting True One speeches. Once the chamber is closed and the Emperor put to rest, Roswell again stands up before the congregation.]
"The True One teaches that 'to lay a body to rest properly you must first cleanse it's soul of torment and only then when the soul is free of burden can the body sleep eternally'. Whilst Emperor Paul was a great man he was by no means a thoroughly perfect human. We are the greatest species that dominates our peripheries, but even the greatest amongst us are not perfect or without equal. To tell you more about the man of the throne I give you Duke West, of the lost noble house West. His past twenty years he has served the old Emperor without fault, his loyalty unmatched and his reasons, to be told today. I give you Duke West"
[A man dressed in an old Imperial uniform, proudly displaying many medals on his breast pocket, stands up from a rear pew. Head held high and with a sense of authority and military prestige he walks slowly up to the front of the congregation. Turning to face them, he clears his throat and looks directly at Samuel and then to Jasil, before he begins...."

"It is ironic that a man whose life quest was dedicated to peace and unification could produce two son's whose legacy thus far should bring only war and an empire divided."
[Duke fidgets a little, knowing the peripheries are watching.]
"Forty years ago an NHC prophecy was foretold that the first son of Emperor Paul would be the prophet of the True One. When the first born of Paul secretly entered this world the NHC fostered Samuel after the death of his mother in an explosion. The fact that Samuel was not with his mother at the time of the explosion was hidden from Paul so that the NHC could instil the virtues of the True One in the Prophet Samuel. It came as no surprise therefore that when the second son of Paul was born that he was raised as the sole heir to the Imperial throne and honoured leader of the Imperial Services."

"Paul was on his deathbed when the NHC enlightened Samuel as to his birthright as true heir to the throne and first born of Paul. Samuel instantly went to his biological fathers side, where upon he met Jasil. Paul disclosed to Jasil that Samuel was the first born and so rightful heir to the Imperial throne. Paul then announced this to the Empire and it shook to its very foundations. Surprisingly though was Jasil's acceptance to this and the support of those that stood to gain from Samuel's ascendancy to the throne in his place. Most notable amongst these was a faction of the New Harmony Church (calling themselves The Brotherhood) and the Agency for Public Order, much to the annoyance and fear of the noble houses."

"Samuel, unprepared for politics and subtlety, harshly confiscated a large portion of a trading affiliations assets for purportedly aiding rebels against the Empire using his new found power. Unused to this kind of treatment, and fearing Samuel, the merchant factions in the Empire swung their support to Jasil who had previously allowed them to trade free of Imperial scrutiny."

"Emperor Paul, finally consumed by his old age and sickness, passed on. Jasil, gaining again in power and influence quickly ordered his fathers cremation, an unusual request as Emperors usually lie in state before being entombed for eternity. A faction of the NHC known as The Brotherhood became suspicious and switched the bodies before the order was carried out and moved it to a secure location, not to be known of again for twenty years. The BHD's suspicions were justified when Jasil, using the power of media, the backing of the noble houses and merchant factions publicly denounced Samuel as the true heir to the empire. Jasil stated that Samuel was unrelated to his father, and due to Emperor Paul's failing health and mental state that he must have been mistaken. With no physical support or evidence due to the cremation of Paul, Samuel could not ascend the throne. Jasil inadvertently usurped power from the true heir and nullified Samuel's claim by proclaiming it a Brotherhood intended plot."

"With growing disorder and anarchy within Imperial cities, Jasil's power & support soared and many acts were committed in his name. These included the burning of Churches & the assassination of many informants. The noble houses entered the game and Civil War was inevitable!"

"Jasil ordered the cleansing of the newly formed Confederacy and the ensuing nuclear war tore many worlds apart. Many naval bases on both sides became radiation pits, as well as Confederate aligned worlds. This pre-empted the Confederate withdrawal from Imperial space that finally ended in the Darkfold peripheries."

"In this war my noble house were staunch supporters of the Imperial line. My family dates back to when the Empire was known as the United Earth, and has served the Emperor since their founding. It so happened that my noble house and the majority of our assets were upon a planet whose majority sympathised with the Confederacy. Imagine my horror to find that the side I was fighting for had cleansed my home world with nuclear bombardments that wiped out my whole family and assets just to deny the majority of the world from turning Confederate. This made me side with the Confederacy, though in essence they were equally to blame for my noble house's extinction!"

"For the next ten years my life was empty, the Imperial and Confederate war raged on along bordering systems but was of no interest to me. The Imperials discovered Capellan and colonised it. During this time I became friends with a Brotherhood Rear Admiral who told me more about Samuel and his usurper brother Jasil. Continuing the tradition of my family I decided to follow the true line of the Emperor and stayed on Samuel's side. Then from out of the blue I received a coded message from my friend the Rear Admiral. The message said, "Assemble a secret team that can be trusted for an important mission that would last a number of years". The message was urgent so I complied with the instructions."

"A rendezvous was set in the border systems and the Rear Admiral escorted us to a system previously unknown but recently found by the Imperials, hence the urgency. On a backwater planet of this system the Rear Admiral disclosed that the body of Emperor Paul lay buried within some ancient lava vents. The lower caverns of which were detonated as to ensure he wasn't moved in a hurry. My friend also said that the body held evidence to Samuel's claim to the throne and that it is imperative that the body be found as to reinstate the true heir to the Imperial throne, and thus unify the divided humanities."

"Years later and after numerous set backs, including being discovered by a SMS exploration team which resulted in numerous Imperial attacks, the body was finally recovered and with the aid of Roswell and Toridan we were able to transport the Emperors body to a safe and secure location."

"In a secret research facility DNA and genetic analysis showed some interesting findings. It is for this reason I stand here before you today to clear up the legacy of Emperor Paul and to cleanse his soul of the burden that he carried to his grave."

[Duke retrieves a remote control from his pocket and presses a button on the keypad. There is a short whirr and from a box in front of the pulpit a holographic image is projected. Duke motions to the projections and continues]

"With a simple DNA test and genetic scanning it was conclusively proved that Samuel was of Paul. We also know that Jasil is also of Paul which makes them half brothers, Samuel being the eldest. He is therefore the true heir to the throne, proving that Jasil has lived a lie for the past 20 years, resulting in many needless deaths and splitting the Human Empire to satisfy his personal ambition."

[Duke prompts ushers to hand out research data compiled to the congregation. The data contains hard copies of the research project as well as disks and a tube containing a sample of Paul's DNA. ]

"There was also something that Paul and his sons withheld from all of us. Genetic findings show that the sons of Emperor Paul are not only related to him but are in fact Paul himself."

[PAUSES for effect]

Ivan laughs and falls from his chair, before he can say anything more he is removed from the hall by a pair of Startroopers. All eyes turn first to Jasil, then to Samuel. Both men appear to be made of stone, faces completely passive.

"Albeit with a little modification. Under Imperial law Jasil and his descendants are illegal, as Jasil is a clone manufactured bio-genetically in a lab. The reason became obvious as we studied the corpse of Emperor Paul. Our great leader was in fact completely sterile thus unable to father children at any point in his life. This of course means that Samuel under Imperial law is also an illegal clone. Fortunately the Confederacy renounces Imperial law as it is administered by an usurper Emperor. Which under our law makes Samuel a legitimate heir. The Confederacy supports superior beings and what can be more complementary than a leader cast from the same mould as the Great man we are here to pay tribute to today. If the Imperial people still embrace the Emperor Jasil then as a matter of course and as dictated by Imperial tradition Samuel should become Emperor, as he is the eldest."

[Duke nods to Roswell and walks slowly back to his seat, a look of relief and contentment on his face as he has now fulfilled his mission.]
[The Viceroy Simms, leans over and mutters something to Jasil, but only the slightest nod acknowledges anything.]
[Roswell stands and makes his way to the Pulpit. He faces the congregation and takes in their expressions, before speaking.]

"My fellow humans, I thank you for attending the ceremony of Emperor Paul. He has now finally been laid to rest and his legacy told. We now have the truth and it is not a distorted lie like that which has been played out for the past 20 years. I hope that one day the unification of the human empire will happen, whether this helps or hinders it, we shall see. The Confederacy for one is not willing to live a lie and keep our people in the dark."

"I thank you for attending, and hope you all have a RIP free journey home."

[Roswell steps down from the pulpit and motions to Toridan to begin the leaving arrangements. As the great doors of the Cathedral open, Roswell breathes in the fresh afternoon air, and it tastes sweet, just like the new beginning??]

Both Jasil and Samuel refuse to pass comment on the ceremony or in fact anything at all. Viceroy Simms only comment is 'No comment'. If any of the delegates were rattled by this unforeseen turn of events, only Ivan the Gambler appears to have reacted. He is last seen punching somebody and brawling with Startroopers following a question on the unusual tactics (fiasco?) used to capture Freedom City.

Priority Markets

S.O.ColonySys.S.S.ItemBuyingSellingPrice
AFTDTR Opportunity1211044Fissionables4000@201000@50
Mines103000
CLNCLN Constantinopolis (1265)25839Fissionables253110
Pulac Crystals200020
CLNCLN Sabeltand (1412)972349Chemicals300040
Fibrillium300300
CLNCLN Gomorrah (3170)981555Fissionables120920
Pulac Crystals500030
CLNCLN Lunar Eclipse (4805)1382239Colonists44000
Structural Units276322
CNFIND Weregild (2332)42349Hive Eggs100200
Mines103000
CNFCIA Shadowland (4748)42349Colonists1500015
CNFCIA Langley (2301)171636Fissionables86005
Untooled Factories105000
CNFIND Thorn (140) 172258Ambrosia50050
CNFCIA Armoury (179)172456Waste200030
Luxury Foodstuffs60008
CNFBHD Osgiliath (1440)173047Fissionables950040
CNFCIA Entropy (488)242342Colonists150410
CNFAFT Return (4313)411850Heaven Herb1000015
DENDEN Skypoint (1824)383032Planet Probes6824
System Probes2024
DENIND High Star (1971)1031841Condensed Metals400012
Metals/Non-Metals300002
FCNFCN Inversion Stronghold145954BCMs1200100
Farms1005000
FCNFCN Dark Sun City (586)1621148Condensed Metals200010
Luxury Foodstuffs193004
FCNFCN Falencia (3351)1621148Jacium3200500
Processed Thorlium20000200
IMPIMP Jax (2990)1349Furs30004
IMPFET Tortuga (4734)1349Colonists100001
IMPGTT HQ (467)11440Colonists100001
Pulac Crystals100001
IMPEEM Hypso (4802)11939Ambrosia50050
Luxury Goods10005
IMPFET New Kyoto (4297)11939Luxury Goods100004
IMPFET Dragonnest (227)1472832Colonists1000020
IMPGTT Outcasts (1821)1501034Artworks300001
IMPAFT Eclypse (1124)1502232Photon Guns719180
IMPGTT Xanadu (4810)1581146Ambrosia800250
IMPIMP Sevastopol (4997)1592438Medical Supplies732450
IMPIMP Leeward (4871)1592438Clothing100004
IMPIMP Alexandria III (2790)160 433LBCM100500
IMPFET Port Royal (1571)160 740Luxury Foodstuffs400045
IMPGTT Bannockburn (3411)160740Colonists300001
Luxury Foodstuffs300001
IMPDEN Aslan (1665)1632856Stargate Key 163130000
IMPFET Falconhaven (4806)1652259Colonists1000010
Luxury Goods20004
IMPGTT Liberty (3240)1652936Korondite62580
Xbureaucrat80500
IMPIND Amity (1831)1661745Metals/Non-Metals61805
IMPFET New Hope (951)1661745Strion7527160
IMPAFT Amythest (282)173532Life Supports9020
IMPIMP Cezta (2625)173532Fissionables199620
IMPGTT New Christiania (4707)173532Maintenance-Bots210000
Veterans101000
IMPGTT Thermopylae (1152)1781742Crew50@10400@35
Fissionables30035
IMPSMS Farcry (3392)1781742Maintenance-Bots130000
KASCIA Sin City (209)146631Veterans70500
KASEEM Balmoral (4100)1462857Condensed Metals10006
Untooled Factories312000
KASCNF Sarajevo (3874)1462857Celesium100100
Crew29230
KASDTR Porta Capella (1303)1462951Farms1000@3205 50@3750
Mines1000@3200 48@4000
KASKAS Rubis (4063)1462951Processed Thorlium568030
Jacium8530350
KASGTT New Atlantis (2069)1462951Fissionables20235
Super Conductors62190
KASAFT Blackbird's Nest (4428)1462951Colonists100030
Food31833
KASFET Alliance Station (604)1462951Jac/Thor Alloy10050
KASDEN Minotaur (1322)1462951Stargate Key 1211030000
KASDOM Mycenae Sound (3114)1462951Jacium250325
KASHXM Terradiidae (27631462951Strion1000100
Structural Units80025
KASSMS Yggdrasil (2732)171643Ambrosia600100
Biochemists5010000
KASKAS Azreals Peak (789)1711433Life Supports3000025



Space Academy XXVI

This months new arrivals to BSE are as follows: