previous transmissionsEsperance/Solomani Rim 293-1120After several days of fierce fighting, the Imperial 310th Field Army has entered Ciudad de las Estrellas, the Neuva Argentinean capital city. The Nueva Argentinean government has already fled to a redoubt in an unknown location, but Army spokesmen confirmed that its representatives are already attempting to negotiate a surrender to Imperial authorities. While guerilla action remains a possibility, the Esperance War appears to be over.
Anaxias/Delphi 277-1120Duchess Margaret Alkhalikoi Tukera gave birth to a single child today, sparking an air of celebration around the world.
The child was a girl, named Julia Iphegenia Cassir Alkhalikoi-Tukera.
Both mother and child are reported to be in good health.
Ludmilla/Solomani Rim 275-1120After several rounds of talks, a legal agreement has been reached involving the government of Ludmilla, the Vegan tuhuir Ewm Shao Gwi, and the Imperium. The Ludmillan government will take no further steps to nationalize Vegan business interests on Ludmilla, and will provide the same protection and service to Vegan ships as to any others transiting the critical Boskone system. Any concessions made by Ewm Shao Gwi are unknown at this time.
Human supremacists within the Ludmillan public are mounting a vocal protest against the agreement, but a surprisingly large number of Human citizens are remaining silent or voicing support. Apparently a large segment of the Human populace is significantly less committed to anti-Vegan policies than most outside observers had suspected.
Shululsish/Solomani Rim 267-1120The Office of the Duke reports that Archduke Adair will arrive on Shululsish on or about day 320, to preside over a four-day session of the duchy's Senate.
The most pressing order of business is likely to be the selection of a candidate for the vacant position of Duke of Alderamin. The current situation is complicated by the lack of any other Imperial duke associated with either of the subsectors of the duchy. By the Archduke's decree, Imperial counts holding demesnes in the Duchy of Alderamin will be eligible for election to the duchy.
Although the choice of the Senate is not binding on the Emperor, he is considered unlikely to overrule it so long as Archduke Adair gives the result his own concurrence.
Esperance/Solomani Rim 265-1120Full-scale Imperial intervention began today on this war-torn world. Admiral Sir Kristian Sandkvist, commanding the 1295th Colonial Fleet in system, announced that his office had uncovered credible evidence of biological warfare against the forces of Waothan, using a genetically engineered virus. "This constitutes the use of a weapon of mass destruction, which is a clear violation of the Imperial Rules of War. I am therefore ordering the immediate investment of Esperance. As soon as planetary space has been secured, forces of the Imperial Army and Marines will land and begin the task of separating the combatants and degrading the ability of the so-called Human Bloc to continue fighting."
Forces of Nueva Argentina and its Human ally nations are apparently in full retreat, as the Imperial Navy bombards their forward positions and logistics areas. Off-world, the Imperial 226th and 310th Field Armies (based on Yrsai), the 311th Field Army (based on Glaucas) and the 634th Field Army (based on Upirzanu) are all preparing to land once the way has been opened for them. The 1105th Lift Infantry Corps, already based on Esperance, has made a lightning strike to occupy the city of Todos Santos. Imperial forces are opening a command-and-control center there to oversee occupation of the disputed territories.
Europa/Aldebaran 258-1120Violent riots have erupted in several major population centers here, apparently leading to a full-scale popular revolt against the dictatorial Europan regime. A number of Home Guard units have apparently declared for the insurrection and are now fighting the regime's Republican Guard troops.
Esperance/Solomani Rim 250-1120A particularly vicious outbreak of the Vegan catarrh has taken place in regions already affected by the ongoing war here. The disease has little effect on Humans, who may suffer no more than mild upper-respiratory discomfort, but it is often very debilitating or even fatal to Vegans. Perhaps as a result, the Vegan advance into Human Bloc territory has slowed dramatically in the last few days.
Sacnoth/Spinward Marches 245-1120Sir Adrian Montrose, prominent official in the Imperial Border Office, was found dead today in his suite at the Ambassador's Hostel in Foerstaborg. Although Imperial and Border Worlds security forces are investigating the death as suspicious, there was apparently no sign of foul play.
Ludmilla/Solomani Rim 238-1120The Vegan tuhuir Ewm Shao Gwi has called for outside arbitration in its ongoing legal dispute with the human-supremacist government of Ludmilla. A commission composed of Imperial officials is expected to arrive on-planet within two weeks. Highly-placed sources in the subsector government have expressed concern that the Human-Vegan conflict raging on nearby Esperance is in danger of spreading to nearby worlds.
Esperance/Solomani Rim 234-1120Sporadic reports of combat in the deep Esperance system were confirmed by a spokesman for the 1291st Colonial Fleet. "A number of Esperancian SDB squadrons with human crews have broken the Treaty of Milagro and taken up arms on behalf of the Human Bloc," said Lieutenant Fielle Wilson-MacCraig, IN. "As this is also constitutes treason against the Imperium, our forces have responded decisively. I am happy to inform you that the rebel SDBs have been smashed by elements of the 1291st Colonial Fleet, and the few survivors have scattered into deep system space."
In other news, Lieutenant Wilson-MacCraig denied rumors of tension between senior IN commanders on the scene in Esperance. "All naval commanders involved in the observation and blockade of the planet are fully aware of their obligation to follow the chain of command," he said before ending the press conference.
Esperance/Solomani Rim 225-1120After a brief cease-fire, fighting resumed today in the region of the city of Guevara between troops of Waothan and its human rivals. Waothani mechanized infantry and grav armor resumed their advance into territory claimed by Nueva Argentina.
In response to the renewed fighting, Imperial Naval spokesmen announced that Esperance would soon be subject to a full blockade, enforced by elements of the 1291st and 1295th Colonial Fleets already in system.
Enos/Spinward Marches 208-1120The planet Enos is in shock today after a statement released by the Regent of Enos, Hamund Nafnisen Riseger. "Queen Ros has suffered a severe horse-riding accident, and is now at Hardenberg Castle," it said. "While the queen will recover, our top medical specialists are indicating that it will take several months or more before she will be well enough to resume her duties. Until that time, she will be withdrawing from public life. We ask that your thoughts be with her in this difficult time, and express our hopes that her health returns quickly."
Gram/Spinward Marches 202-1120A protest was jointly lodged with Confederation House by the Border Worlds Authority and the Imperium early this morning. Both states are objecting to the recent reconstruction work on Bryn Avgrunn Base, between the planets Orcrist and Enos.
A spokesman for the Confederation rejected the protest. "We admit that the previous base at that location was intended to threaten Caladbolg, yet it also bridged the four parsec gap to our most outlying world. After its destruction in the last war, Enos was cut off, and that needs to be remedied. We are willing to allow Imperial inspectors on the station, but rebuilding will be going ahead in light of recent obstruction of traffic through along the alternative J-2 route through Border Worlds space."
Esperance/Solomani Rim 201-1120Nueva Argentina claimed that its forces had halted and smashed a Waothani advance near the city of Guevara today, inflicting massive casualties on the invading Vegan forces. Waothani defense spokesmen dismissed these reports, but admitted that the advance into Human Bloc territory "has not entirely met expectations."
Home/Aldebaran 185-1120During closing proceedings of the Solomani Party Congress, the Secretariat has elected a new Secretary-General.
The new chief executive of the Solomani Confederation is Marc Chissano. Chissano is a member of the ruling family of Twilight/Aldebaran and has served as his homeworld's delegate to the Secretariat since 1113. He has also held a series of posts in the Solomani bureaucracy, most recently serving as Deputy Minister of Information. His politics are believed to be firmly radical - he has consistently supported strict racial-purity laws and an anti-Imperial foreign policy.
As usual, the Secretariat held its elections behind closed doors, so details of Chissano's election are unclear. Several delegates have stated to the press that Chissano was a "compromise candidate," nominated only after several more prominent delegates were unable to break a deadlock.
Esperance/Solomani Rim 177-1120War began today, as Waothani air and grav-armor forces crashed across the border into territory of the Human Bloc. The city-state of Todos Santos was quickly surrounded by Vegan forces, and declared itself an open city to avoid attack. Imperial observers quickly set up residence in the city and began monitoring the battle. In accordance with international law, the commanders of all significant system-defense squadrons have delivered their commands to the Imperial Navy for sequestration.
Esperance/Solomani Rim 173-1120Peace talks between the Vegan and Human blocs on Esperance have broken down, after a series of shouted exchanges between principal negotiators. Count Willem Salacrou, the lead Imperial negotiator, was seen to be pale and drawn as he left the conference room. To the press, he stated that: "I've never seen anything like this. As long as both sides were engaged in lower-level discussions, everything seemed to go well. The minute the principals got into that room together, it all fell apart. If I was a superstitious man I'd say that there were evil spirits plaguing us."
Both negotiation teams have left the neutral city of Todos Santos for their respective capitals. Forces on both sides of the contested borders are said to be on high alert.
Dimmurak/Solomani Rim 168-1120Three days before planetary elections, a bomb blast in the capital city claimed the life of seven citizens and an undetermined number of offworld observers. Notable among the casualties was Cheng Golok, leader of the Interstellar Brotherhood of Labor and a prominent figure in the pro-democracy movement here. It is unknown whether Golok was killed or merely wounded, as IBL officials quickly moved him to a secure location.
"The knife at the throat of our enemies has been taken away," said Eneri Shirika, so-called Speaker for the People’s Party. "A great man has fallen, and we cannot know if he will return. Yet if our enemies hoped to silence him, they will be disappointed. They will find him returning as a thousand knives wielded by free, unafraid people."
Public reaction to the bombing has been one of shock and anger. The effect on the upcoming elections is as yet undetermined.
Mora/Spinward Marches 160-1120The office of Duchess Delphine, in conjunction with Archduke Norris and the Ministry of Colonization, announced today that Bronze (1627 Spinward Marches) would be placed under interdiction for the next 270 days. At the end of that period, the planet will be opened to any and all persons or corporations for claim-staking and exploitation.
Results of the IISS survey of the planet were released simultaneously, and the intent of the Red Zone is to allow all competitors to plan on equal footing for operations beginning next year.
Dimmurak/Solomani Rim 150-1120Planetary elections have yielded a razor-thin majority for the pro-Imperial Iishadun Party, along with a great deal of election-day violence and widespread accusations of vote fraud.
Cheng Golok of the Interstellar Brotherhood of Labor stated that "if the Iishadun and their megacorporate sponsors think that they can steal this election, they are sadly mistaken. Under the Dimmurak constitution, the IBL and the People's Party demand a recount, to be monitored by neutral observers."
Late this evening, the Citizen’s Advisory Council issued a statement agreeing to the IBL demand, announcing that officials of the Imperial Ministry of Justice would be invited to oversee a recount and (if need be) a run-off election.
Esperance/Solomani Rim 147-1120Count Willem Salacrou has arrived on Esperance to begin a round of mediation involving both Imperial and local officials.
"This is shuttle diplomacy," the Count said during a press conference at the starport. "War on Esperance would benefit no one, not the Imperium and not the Human or Vegan citizens of the planet. If I can help defuse the situation, all the better."
Home/Aldebaran 136-1120The General Congress of the Solomani Party has been disrupted by the arrest of a prominent member.
Agents of the Vantage government entered the Congress chambers to arrest the de facto leader of the Nationalist caucus, Jan Malikov, on charges of bribery and malfeasance. Malikov stands accused of criminal misconduct during his service as a Vantage planetary official in the mid-1100s.
Malikov has refused to invoke delegate's privilege, and vows to return to Vantage to face the charges. It is unclear how his absence, even if temporary, will affect the ongoing campaign for the office of Secretary-General.
Knabbib/Core 130-1120Julian Trane, distinguished professor of interstellar history, has just published an epic analysis of Imperial history titled The Inevitability of Night.
The new work hypothesizes that interstellar civilization progresses through a continuing cycle of expansion and regression, driven by factors which cannot be avoided by any culture. In public interviews, Trane has carefully avoided making any predictions about the future of the Imperium.
"I am no oracle," Trane said in an appearance on the Knabbib world-news net. "I can't project how Imperial history will proceed over the next week, much less the next thousand years. My work suggests that another Long Night must someday come. It doesn't give us a timetable."
Imperial officials refused comment.
Stralsund/Solomani Rim 125-1120After several weeks of negotiations sponsored by the Countess of Hoatzin, the Paramount of Stralsund has agreed to lay down his office and go into "honorable retirement" elsewhere in the sector.A ruling council is to be formed within 30 days to oversee the transition of the Stralsund Belt to a new form of government. The Countess, who has gained widespread respect for her actions as arbitrator, has agreed to preside over this council and appoint three out of the six other members. The remaining members are to be appointed by the three largest belt-habitats in the system.
Hayt/Solomani Rim 119-1120The badly-burned body of General Shamash Kanten, long-time dictator of Hayt, was found in a wrecked grav car near the starport today. The General's remaining troops retain control of several critical points in the capital city, but by all accounts they are wavering and ready to surrender to rebel forces.
Senator Peresh Bedandii has appeared in public for the first time since his dramatic confrontation with Guardian units at the Legislative Assembly building several local days ago. He has called for all citizens to remain calm and prepare to participate in the construction of a new government.
Sacnoth/Spinward Marches 106-1120The Investigative Branch of the Ministry for Security announced today that politician Karl-Hedin Gudmunsson has been arrested. Gudmunsson, Assistant Minister of the Economy on Sacnoth, was charged with ten counts of bribery, fraud, and peculation.
In a remarkable turn of events, a petition censuring the arrest is being circulated by opposition politicians. It notes Gudmunsson's interest in investigating the role of various large corporations during the past war against the Imperium, and questions the motives for the arrest. However, the government refused to support the statement, citing classified evidence given to them by MinSec.
Vantage/Solomani Rim 105-1120An important political scandal broke today, as Vantage government officials announced criminal charges against a prominent Solomani Party statesman.
Jan Malikov stands accused of having accepted bribes from the Imperial megacorporation SuSAG while serving as the planet's Minister of the Environment almost 15 years ago. Officials announced today that a courier ship has been dispatched to Home, with orders to bring Malikov back for arraignment and trial.
At the same press conference, officials deflected questions about the Imperial far trader Four Kings, whose captain and crew have been in detention for several days. Local press reports speculate that the Imperial merchants are somehow connected to accusations against Malikov, but the details remain unknown.
Hayt/Solomani Rim 099-1120A dramatic reversal has taken place in this world's ongoing political crisis. The First Guardians Regiment was sent to the Legislative Assembly building to arrest rebel senators, who had barricaded themselves inside the building in protest against General Shamash Kanten's rule. After several hours of tense standoff, Senator Peresh Bedandii emerged to confront the Guardian unit. With him was Carl Gyldenskjold, Count of Shululsish.
Not wishing to fire upon the count, the Guardians allowed Senator Bedandii to approach, and negotiated with him for several hours. They then redeployed to protect the Assembly hall rather than threaten it. This setback for the dictatorship was widely broadcast over planetary media, just before they were shut down by government censors.
Count Gyldenskjold was not previously known to be on Hayt, and there is no information as to how he came to be in the presence of the rebel senators.
Hofud/Spinward Marches 089-1120Fragmentary reports out of Ny Vanaas, an isolated industrial city, are claiming that the town has been overrun by forces of the Hofud People's Army. A communique from the HPA appeared to confirm this, as the insurgents declared the city "Provisional Capital of the Republic of Hofud."
Hofud's Imperial Liaison, Sir Jonas Arikar, was quoted as saying "The rebels' statement is just propaganda. This is only a raid, albeit quite a large one. Once Hofud's planetary authorities appear in force, they'll fade back into the wilderness as they always have." He had no comment when asked why the HPA had pressed their attack home against a large city for the first time.
Teilhard/Aldebaran 084-1120This relatively isolated world's starport has been raided by an unusually powerful (or unusually bold) corsair band.
"Whoever they were, they came out of nowhere," reported Ibrahim Tall, captain of the free trader Nureddin's Fortune. "Half my crew was in the settlement on liberty. We had no warning, no time to lift off. They didn't pay any attention to us, though. Apparently they only raided the repair yard and then left."
From eyewitness accounts, the corsairs used one very large vessel, roughly equivalent to a large escort or a destroyer. A wild rumor claims that the corsair was a Confederation Navy warship, but this has not been confirmed and seems very unlikely in any case.
Home/Aldebaran 079-1120The 104th General Congress of the Solomani Party opened today, beginning many days of intense political activity at the Solomani capital. Secretary-General Lin Peres presided over the opening ceremonies, calling for all Party delegates to be "mindful of the heavy responsibility inherent in making decisions that affect all the Solomani people."
As Secretary-General Peres is not expected to win re-election, much attention fell on the Party leaders considered most likely to succeed her. Jan Malikov, a prominent Nationalist delegate to the Secretariat from Vantage/Solomani Rim, is considered the favorite in the upcoming voting. He spoke during several formal gatherings today, and appeared relaxed and confident.
Hoatzin/Solomani Rim 071-1120The Gran Hoatzin Consortium has announced that it will seek bankruptcy protection under Imperial commerce laws. The consortium began three years ago with an ambitious plan to decentralize planetside industrial production, setting up dozens of small robotic factories in the oldest settled regions on Hoatzin. The plan was supported by the planetary government and the office of Countess Muuadin, but strongly opposed by Solomani industrialists in the planet’s New Cities. A series of cost overruns and marketing failures has plagued the consortium since its foundation.
Gran Hoatzin Consortium securities were trading at 7.4 Cr/share on the Hoatzin Exchange at closing, down from 68.5 at their height on 048-1120.
Daedalus/Aldebaran 063-1120The pleasant island resort of White Kyros was attacked before dawn this morning by an armed party of unknown origin. Over a dozen cottages were destroyed before the attackers withdrew. Although no specific report has been released to the media, casualties among both security staff and vacationers were apparently high.
The authorities are treating the incident as an unusually bloody terrorist attack, but have made no public statement as to the identity of the terrorists.
Terrorism and political violence are rare, but not unknown, on Daedalus. The White Kyros resort is quite exclusive, and is known to cater to Solomani Party leaders as well as the occasional Imperial aristocrat on a tour of the Solomani Confederation.
Esperance/Solomani Rim 049-1120Air and interface forces of Waothan and Nueva Argentina have clashed over the neutral airspace of the city-state Todos Santos. Three aircraft were shot down, two Human and one Vegan, before the opposing forces could disengage. Both major states (and Todos Santos) are now engaged in a vicious name-calling contest in the Assembly of Nations, although other powers are attempting to mediate the dispute.
Dingir/Solomani Rim 048-1120Duchess Erika haut-Beaudoin of Dingir made a brief appearance at her father's Grand Conclave, lending considerable luster to this otherwise-dull gathering of conservative aristocrats. Despite rumors of strain between the Duchess and her father, the Marquis appeared at her side throughout the evening, and the two conversed before his guests with every evidence of warmth. Marquis Beaudoin was particularly careful to introduce his daughter to several of the younger men present, and looked on with approval as the Duchess enjoyed several minuets on the dance floor.
Anaxias/Delphi 047-1120During a routine press conference today, Duchess Margaret announced that she is pregnant, confirming rumors of the past several weeks. Margaret went on to say that she is carrying a single child, which her physicians have declared to be in perfect health. Her husband, Count Blaine Tukera, is said to be looking forward to being a father again.
Ludmilla/Solomani Rim 035-1120Representatives of the Vegan minority have attempted to present a list of grievances to the central government, but were unable to speak to any official of senior grade. When the Vegans attempted to peacefully block entrances to government buildings, police forces in riot gear attacked and drove the dissidents off. Several hundred Vegans and Human sympathizers were arrested, many of them badly beaten or subjected to repeated doses of riot gas before being taken into custody.
Fenris/Solomani Rim 024-1120Anti-Imperial sentiments have boiled over in a number of cities, as members of conservative Lodges took to the streets in violent protest. Businesses were looted, vehicles were wrecked, and offworlders and pro-Imperial citizens were mobbed. Rioters engaged in dozens of pitched battles with police, fading away only when Imperial troops arrived on the scene. Casualties have been light, almost entirely limited to unarmed civilians caught in the crossfire.Imperial Army spokesmen dismissed today’s protests as an expected surge in mob violence. "On the Solomani calendar, today was the 7th of May," explained Major Eneri Enleshkaadshar during a press conference. "That's the anniversary of the final surrender of Terra during the Rim War. We see some unrest every year about this time. The Governor's staff is confident that these malcontents will crawl back into their holes soon enough. I also guarantee that they will do more damage to fellow citizens of Fenris than they will to the Imperium."
Heimdall/Aldebaran 020-1120The nation-state of Bremagne has withdrawn from the planetary League of States, leaving the stability of this balkanized world in question.Bremagnians have long objected to the procedures for selecting Heimdall's delegate to the Secretariat. These procedures were laid down in the League's charter over 200 years ago. They strongly favor nations which were predominant at the time, but which have long since been overshadowed by growing Bremagnian influence. The dispute has become heated in recent years, and now appears likely to cause the breakdown of the League of States.
In a statement, Prime Minister Alois Perrault said that "Bremagne will use every available means to secure its right to representation in the Confederation government. We will challenge any delegate that is named to go to Home without recognition of our legitimate concerns."
Mora/Spinward Marches 012-1120The normally reclusive Sylean community of Wavecrest City has become a center of attention, with the approach of the traditional "Feast of the Ancestors." Well-wishers and tourists alike are thronging the walkways of the Sylean quarter, anticipating the nine-day celebration.In anticipation of Emperor Strephon's upcoming Jubilee Year, festival organizers plan a celebration of particular magnificence. Starburst banners are appearing everywhere in the city. On the first day of the festival, there will be a large procession led by a massive effigy of Cleon I. Afterward, several hundred members of the sector's elite will attend a traditional feast on the grounds of the Sylean University of Mora.
Vantage/Solomani Rim 010-1120Jan Malikov, prominent Nationalist delegate to the Secretariat, has resurfaced in dramatic fashion. Appearing before the Council of the Bootean League, he announced his intention to stand for election to the office of Secretary-General of the Solomani Confederation at this year's General Congress of the Solomani Party."The Confederation is facing a crisis of confidence," stated Malikov. "With all due respect to the current administration, we badly need leadership of a kind that has not been in evidence for many years. The Solomani people deserve no less."
After the meeting of the League Council, Malikov took questions from members of the press. He continued his civil but vigorous attack against the Solomani government's current policies. He made no comment when asked about his location or activities since disappearing from Home/Aldebaran on 311-1119.
Muan Gwi/Solomani Rim 001-1120Archduke Adair announced today the Empress Iolanthe is due to visit the Solomani Rim during the upcoming Jubilee Year. Her itinerary has not yet been announced, but the Archduke confirmed that the Empress would visit Muan Gwi, Shulgiasu, Shululsish and Terra at some point during her tour.
Sarpedon/Solomani Rim 364-1119Imperial Navy spokesman Lieutenant Gaamagin Cho has announced the defeat of a band of pirates on the outskirts of the Sarpedon system.According to Lieutenant Cho, the liner Pleiades came under attack while approaching Laodemeia, the Sarpedon system's only gas giant. Fortunately a Navy escort squadron was performing readiness drills in Laodemeia space, and was able to respond to the liner's distress signal. Lieutenant Cho did not give specifics of the engagement, and refused to speculate on the identity of the pirates involved. She stressed that there were no casualties to Navy personnel, or to crew and passengers aboard the Pleiades.
The Pleiades is a 600-dton subsidized liner registered to the merchant line Silk Road Factors. Silk Road Factors is known to specialize in cross-border trade into the Solomani Confederation.
Sarmaty/Solomani Rim 355-1119Taehtaukhakhtko, chief-paramount of the Aslan clans of Aorhtoi, announced today that Duke Iwoahlarko has died of natural causes. "My friend is gone, my honor-brother is gone," stated the ko, who was reportedly present at the Duke’s deathbed. "His last words were of his clan and his demesne. Let all who respected him hold silence. Let all who would dishonor his memory beware."Renaud, Baron Argentueil, read the Duke’s personal legacy aloud. In it, he left the choice of a new Duke to his superiors in the Imperial aristocracy, trusting in the wisdom of the Archduke and Emperor. The Duke’s position as ko of the Iwoahlar clan is currently in abeyance, and will be awarded to a clan elder after a brief period of mourning in accordance with clan custom.
Gashidda/Solomani Rim 346-1119Planetary security forces have made an extensive arrest sweep during a crackdown on anti-Imperial protests in the Capital District. The protests began peacefully several days ago, but have since degenerated into mob violence. Armed dissidents have engaged in several pitched battles with security forces, causing dozens of casualties and millions of credits in economic damage.In related news, security has been tightened on the entourage of former Solomani Confederation naval officer Alexander Spyridion, who has been pursuing local speaking engagements for some time. Spyridion's representatives confirm that they have received death threats from radical Solomani groups on Gashidda.
Shululsish/Solomani Rim 344-1119The Office of the Duke today announced that a message had been received from the Emperor, confirming Lord Carl Gyldenskjold in his honors as Count of Shululsish and Marquis Gyldenskjold. The count is currently touring his off-world estates, but his office announced that he will be informed by courier.
Esperance/Solomani Rim 338-1119A reconnaissance drone has crossed the border of Waothan, only to be promptly brought down by Waothani air-defense forces. The Vegan state's government made no accusations as to who had launched the drone, but spokesman Eran Wen Tonshaon stated flatly that “Waothan stands ready to defend itself against all enemies.” The incident seemed likely to exacerbate rapidly-rising tensions between Waothan and its Human rival states on Esperance.
Dingir/Solomani Rim 320-1119Robert, Marquis of Beaudoin and once Duke of Dingir, emerged from seclusion today to announce a Grand Conclave of the sector’s nobility. The meeting is to take place on Dingir from 045-1120 through 050-1120. "I cordially invite all of my friends and kinsmen to join us for several days of talk and revelry," he said. "We have much to discuss regarding the future of our beloved Imperium, and in any case it has been far too long since many of us have seen one another in person."The marquis’ daughter, Duchess Erika haut-Beaudoin, was not present at the announcement. Her office made no formal comment, although her seneschal stated informally that "the marquis is fully capable of making his own social arrangements without our assistance or advice."
Home/Aldebaran 316-1119A prominent delegate to the Secretariat has been missing for almost six days, according to senior Solomani Party officials.Jan Malikov has not been seen since attending a society dinner on 310-1119. Malikov and his security escort left the home of a senior Transstar executive just after midnight local time, but they do not appear to have arrived back at his residence. His disappearance was first reported by his office staff at the Secretariat.
Malikov is a prominent member of the Nationalist wing of the Solomani Party. He has been openly critical of current government policies, notably Solomani Security's purge of the Confederation Navy's officer corps. SolSec officials deny having anything to do with Malikov's disappearance.
Terra/Solomani Rim 313-1119An unusual historical conference convened at the University of Terra today, and will remain in session through 340-1119.The colloquium is entitled "The Genesis of Solomani Ideology: A Hemimillennial Perspective on the Srys Conference." The title refers to a meeting of academics, military leaders, and nobles which took place on Srys/Old Expanses in 619. The Srys Conference, which took place at the height of the Civil War, is widely regarded by historians as one of the pivotal moments in the formation of the so-called "Solomani Cause" ideology.
Today's conference has attracted historians from across the Imperium and beyond. The attendance list includes a substantial contingent of academics from the Solomani Confederation, permitted to travel to Terra under a cross-border cultural exchange program.
Imperial officials are said to be watching the meeting closely. There has been no public comment regarding the security arrangements for the conference, although both Terran police and Imperial security forces have been placed on moderate alert until the closing sessions.
Euxene/Aldebaran 307-1119An official of the Euxene planetary government has taken the unusual step of criticizing Solomani Security for its handling of political dissent cases."We've long suspected that SolSec agents are interfering with the government's investigation of anarchist cells," claimed Minister of Truth Kelvan Tommsen. "We didn't want to believe it. Why would any agency of the Confederation hinder our pursuit of these anti-Solomani terrorists? Even so, I have unequivocal proof that SolSec has helped three major figures of the anarchist underground escape arrest in the past year alone."
Tommsen demanded that SolSec cease any support it may be providing to local anarchists, and called for it to immediately open its records to government inspection. Thus far, planetary SolSec officials have issued no public response.
Capital/Core 300-1119Professor Julian Trane, distinguished interstellar historian, arrived in system today. Professor Trane has accepted an offer to conduct a special series of advanced seminars at the University of Sylea, to be delivered over the next five years. The Professor's arrival was delayed from earlier in the year, for reasons which the professor's private secretary described as "personal."
Professor Trane's researches deal with the cyclical nature of historical trends and their predictibility in broad terms. His visit to Capital is to conduct a detailed study of the Imperial archives.
Hayt/Solomani Rim 295-1119Planet-wide rioting continues against the government of General Shamash Kanten. Although military and Guardian forces have been successful in putting down riots in many areas, civil order remains elusive. The General and his civilian staff promised to take ruthless action to restore order, "putting down these criminals before they attack vital environmental and industrial facilities."
Dingir/Solomani Rim 288-1119Former Solomani Confederation naval officer Alexander Spyridion appeared on Dingir today, beginning a long-delayed speaking tour covering several worlds in the Imperial portion of the sector. Spyridion plans to address audiences regarding political and military trends in the Confederation.Spyridion is a defector from the Confederation, and according to Solomani officials is under suspicion of being involved in the assassination of former SolSec Chairman Marya Kibaki. Imperial officials have denied several requests from the Solomani for Spyridion's extradition.
During his speaking tour, Spyridion will be accompanied by a number of Imperial citizens who support his efforts to rouse sentiment against the current Solomani regime.
Vantage/Solomani Rim 281-1119A political crisis in the Bootean League has been averted, after the delegation from Polyphemus failed to carry a vote of no confidence in the League Council. Several delegates who had been expected to support the vote changed their positions at the last minute, remaining in support of the League's current leadership.Speaking to the press, Speaker Willem Sandoval, delegate from Sequoyah, called the vote an unambiguous victory for moderate elements within the Bootean League. "The Polyphemians have been trying for years to pull the League into line with their own militant policies," said Sandoval. "This vote tells us that most of the Cluster's people remain committed to the democratic values that shaped our civilization."
Sarmaty/Solomani Rim 273-1119Accompanied by a number of aides and retainers, Duke Iwoahlarko has arrived on Sarmaty. After greeting planetary officials, he immediately traveled to his clan lands in the nation of Aorhtoi. Human representatives of the press were excluded from his audience with clan leaders, which lasted until well past local midnight.
Covenant/Aldebaran 267-1119Paul Knox, a prominent member of the planetary Parliament, has been found dead in his own home. Police officials reported that the death was "suspicious," but refused to release details.Knox was a leading member of the local Humanist faction of the Solomani Party. News of his death has provoked speculation regarding his possible role in Solomani Security. Knox has long been suspected of acting as a covert monitor for SolSec, and possibly of using this position to discredit political rivals.
Shululsish/Solomani Rim 254-1119Iwoahlarko, Duke of Alderamin, announced that he would soon be leaving Shululsish for an extended voyage to his homeworld of Sarmaty. In his absence, he requested and required all members of the duchy’s nobility to continue in their duties with honor and diligence.The Office of the Duke issued a brief statement denying that the Duke’s health had anything to do with this decision.
Marava/Aldebaran 235-1119Following the death of his father, Grand Prince John Petrov has been crowned Emperor John III in a lavish ceremony at the Imperial Palace. As is traditional, the new Emperor confirmed all members of the Imperial Moot in their offices, promised to hold timely elections for the House of Commons, and reiterated his family's claim to the throne of the Third Imperium."The Alkhalikoi usurpers have held sway over the Imperium for far too long," said the new Emperor in a holocast address to the Maravan population. "It's long past time for a Solomani Emperor, who will be ready to implement Solomani ideals of democracy, free competition, and Human rights."
Petrov has made few public statements since being named Grand Prince over 30 years ago, so his political leanings are unknown. He is believed to be a moderate, likely to oppose Solomani Security and the most radical factions of the Solomani Party.
Imperial officials have made no comment, except to deny that Petrov or his family have any legitimate claim to the Iridium Throne. The Imperium does not recognize any titles of nobility granted by the Maravan government, which traces its origins to the Barracks Empress Marava.
Capital/Core 229-1119A near tragedy was averted today, when quick thinking on the part of a sport rentry diver prevented the death of a companion.
Davros Janni Gannisibek, a member of the Karbiili School's Atmospheric reentry diving team, experienced an equipment malfunction during a practice jump yesterday, when his retro pack malfunctioned and fired prematurely, placing Gannisibek on the wrong course for reentry. Team member Karen Selkirk Kabinda risked death herself to match course with Gannisibek, use her own retro pack to correct her teammate's vector, and then moved far enough away for both divers' ablative reentry shields to deploy without entangling each other.
"We ended up about 20 klicks from where we were supposed to land." said Kabinda in an interview after both divers landed safely, "I didn't have the fuel to correct our courses to bring us both down in the right spot, and we almost landed in Zhukov Memorial Park Lake."
Both divers were planning on going up again at the next opportunity. "You can't dwell too much on the risks," said Gannisibek, "otherwise nobody would ever go rock-climbing, or enter jump in a starship." No explanation has be brought forward for the malfunction, but the school and local law enforcement officials are investigating.
Capital/Core 225-1119One of the semifinalists in the Core Sector Chess Association championships has lodged a protest against the Association. Sir Lenos Hendri-Masterson, one of four master players to make it to the final series of games for this year objects to the fact that the Association will not allow him to use a personal psi-shield helmet during the contests. Association rules prohibit the use of any personal psi equipment of any sort (use of psionic powers during championship games is against Imperial law as well as Association rules) -- players who request them are allowed to wear psi-shield helmets issued by the Association, but any other equipment is prohibited.
"We have to be able to insure the equipment is properly functional," said Janis Kalkhan Meyers, chairman of the CSCA's rules committee, "and we have found it easier over the years to have our engineers issue the devices at random before each game. Sir Lenos must abide by the same rules as anyone else."
A spokesman for Sir Lenos states that the champion is distracted by any helmet other than his own, and that use of a "foreign device" will throw off his game.
Inidu/Solomani Rim 221-1119Evidently fearing for her life, a SuSAG executive has voluntarily placed herself under the protection of MoJ official, according to a press release issued today by the Inidu office of the Ministry of Justice. Assistant to the Inidu Division Manager, Gwenj Bondi-Lamotrek has been sought by officials for questioning in an investigation of drug smuggling involving SuSAG-manufactured psi drugs being brought into the Imperium. The MoJ has yet to formally charge anyone, but sources close to the investigation indicate that the MegaCorporation is probably not officially involved, although some local executives might be. No one involved with the case would say who Ms. Bondi-Lamotrek was seeking protection from.
The SuSAG public relations office issued a statement affirming the MegaCorporation's commitment to comply with all Imperial drug regulations, and offering to assist with the investigation, but otherwise had no comment on the investigation.
Capital/Core 203-1119Hanna Wendemere, daughter of Sir Aella Wendemere, announced today that she plans to take over her father's The Benasi Papers a series of novels chronicling the adventures of a Terran family in the early years of the Second Imperium) by creating a series of "prequel" novels covering the Benasi family during the Interstellar wars period.
Ms. Wendemere, a graduate student in sociology at the University of Sylea, says her father approves of her intentions, and has sent her his extensive library of Solomani and Vilani history, although his priceless collection of Terran artifacts will remain with him on Dlan.
Inidu/Solomani Rim 197-1119Received 197-1119
Only days after being questioned by investigators for the Imperial Ministry of Justice, SuSAG's Assistant to the Inidu Division Manager, Gwenj Bondi-Lamotrek, has disappeared. Bondi-Lamotrek was questioned as part of an investigation into a psi drug smuggling operation involving a high executive of SuSAG, although the MoJ announced that she was not a suspect in the crimes herself, but was an important witness in the investigation.
In the absence of evidence of foul play, Gwenj Bondi-Lamotrek is now being sought as a material witness in the investigation, but the MoJ spokesman declined to answer if she is being sought outside of the Inidu system.
Inidu/Solomani Rim 193-1119Received 193-1119
SuSAG's Inidu public relations office announced today that a high official of the company's Inidu operations will be relieved of responsibilities and placed under arrest pending investigation of the executive's involvement in a scheme to smuggle psi drugs from extra-Imperial SuSAG factories into the Imperium. Imperial law prohibits possession, use, manufacture, or sale of psi enhancing drugs, but SuSAG operates facilities outside of the Imperium where these drugs are legal. SuSAG formally declined to comment further on the allegations, other than to say that the megacorporation is cooperating "fully and completely" with the Imperial investigation.
The public relations office of the Ministry of Justice had no comment, but confirmed that an investigation was on-going.
Krypton/Solomani Rim 189-1119Received 189-1119
Local Solomani officials today denied that SolSec Coordinator Elias Treleven changed his plans to visit the system because of suspicions he would be the subject of an assassination.
"We were on the Coordinator's schedule, to be sure," announced a Solomani Naval spokesman, "but we received word several weeks ago that his itinerary had changed, and we would be visited by a lesser official instead. There is no evidence of any plot against him or any other SolSec official."
"We were told the reason for the change in the Coordinator’s plans, and while we cannot reveal them for security reasons, we wish to quash the idle speculation that has been endemic in the system recently."
Muan Gwi/Solomani Rim 184-1119Received 184-1119
A spokesman for Alexander Spyridion, formerly a senior officer in the Solomani Confederation Navy, announced today that Spyridion has temporarily suspended plans for a speaking tour covering several Imperial subsectors. Spyridion's spokesman said that until the legal status of her client can be settled, he has chosen to adopt a low profile for the moment
The Solomani Confederation has formally requested the extradition of Spyridion and other former Solomani Naval officers in connection with the assassination of Solomani Security Coordinator Marya Kibaki earlier in the year. Spyridion and his fellow officers have requested political asylum within the Imperium, which is still pending.
Capital/Core 178-1119Writer Elil Jornada, who specializes in Solomani political affairs, believes that newly appointed Coordinator of Solomani Security (SolSec) Elias Treleven is attempting to exploit the wholesale purges of Solomani Naval personnel.
Jornada, in a newly published book on Solomani politics, expresses the belief that Treleven hopes to use recent disorganization within the Solomani Navy and the formers inability to deal with the situation on Kilenur to increase SolSec's influence within the Solomani Confederation at the expense of the Solomani military.
The book, SolSec Rising, goes on sale on 180-1119.
Dlan/Ilelish 172-1119Received 172-1119
Spokesmen for Archduchess Isis Arepo Ilethian today confirmed that the Archduchesses’ uncle, Hutara Astrin Ilethia recently suffered a second stroke that will necessitate his complete retirement from the stresses of public life.
The archduchess' uncle had not completely recovered from a stroke he suffered approximately 245-1118, and his seneschal had taken over administration of the family estates and industrial interests shortly after that time. The archduchess’ statement did not indicate if any changes were planned in the administration of these holdings.
Terra/Solomani Rim 164-1119The Imperial Ministry of Justice declined a request from the Solomani Confederation for the extradition of Alexander Spyridion and other former officers in the Solomani Confederation Navy. Spyridion and the other former officers are being sought in connection with the assassination of Solomani Security Coordinator Marya Kibaki earlier in the year.
Spyridion and other officers have requested political asylum in the Imperium, claiming they were being unfairly persecuted in the Confederation.
Barnard's Star/Solomani Rim 162-1119Received 162-1119
Officials at Barnard Highport today reported that a yacht owned by a local businessman is four weeks overdue out of Agidda. Selene Malek, owner of Malek Trading, LIC, announced that her son Iye Malek left Nuska six weeks ago, bound for the Barnard system in Malek’s Destiny, a company-owned J-2 capable Lady of Shallot-class yacht. Malek’s Destiny arrived in Agidda on schedule, where it spent six days refueling. Malek’s Destiny left Agidda four weeks ago, and did not exit jump when scheduled.
The freighter Alcibiades was also reported missing several weeks ago when jumping from Terra to the Barnard system, but officials at Barnard Hightport have no reason to believe the two cases are connected.
Capital/Core 158-1119Spokesmen with the Ministry of Justice report that Archduke Adair and the Emperor have both received formal requests from the Solomani Confederation requesting extradition of Alexander Spyridion, and several other former officers in the Solomani Confederation Navy. The document states that Spyridion and the other former officers are being sought in connection with the assassination of Solomani Security Coordinator Marya Kibaki earlier in the year.
Spyridion and other officers have requested political assylum in the Imperium, claiming they were being unfairly persecuted in the Confederation The document does not directly accuse the defectors of Kibaki's murder, but indicates they are wanted for concealing evidence and obstruction of the investigative process.
A representative of Archduke Adair accompanied the Solomani diplomats on their mission to the Imperial palace, and is said to have conferred with Emperor Strephon at great length.
Mirabilis/Solomani Rim 151-1119In a rare visit to the border zone, SolSec Coordinator Elias Treleven visited the local offices of Solomani Security today. Afterward, he attended a reception at the Prime Minister's residence, conversing affably with local Solomani Party officials and Imperial representatives alike.
This is Coordinator Treleven's first visit to the border zone since rising rather abruptly to his current position early this year.
Kilennur/Solomani Rim 142-1119For Immediate Release
By order of Fleet Admiral Vander Gukarishim, Baron Usharki, commanding the 293rd Imperial Fleet:
The Kilennur star system is hereby placed under interdiction immediately and until further notice. No civilian traffic may enter the system except by express permission of the Imperial Navy. All ships entering the system are directed to heave to for inspection, search and possible seizure.
The Travellers' Aid Society has declared the system a Red travel zone, in accordance with the admiral's directive.
Capital/Core 140-1119Mirabilis/Solomani RimOfficial confirmation received today from the Confederation government confirms what Imperial sources have known for some time -- SolSec Coordinator Marya Kibaki was assassinated on 001-1119, by party or parties unknown. Imperial intelligence will not speculate on the perpetrators, but the Solomani believe it was a cabal former Solomani Naval officers cashiered during the recent purges.
Kibaki was succeeded as SolSec Coordinator by Elias Treleven (although again, this seems to be a secret only from official government spokesmen).
Prometheus/Solomani Rim 136-1119The chief of police at Prometheus Downport has announced that his agency is formally seeking Jeffrey Long for questioning in the death of Fustin Hanover, a local criminal found dead a few days ago. Ivestigators stress that Long is not a suspect in the death of Hanover, but now believe the former reporter was present when Hanover was killed, and seek answers to a number of questiions.
Long, a former reporter for the Phoenix Sun news organization on Terra, is missing from a private sanitarium after being admitted under an assumed name in order to receive treatment for an unspecified mental disorder.
Terra/Solomani Rim 128-1119Received 128-1119
Officials at Terra announced today that the freighter Alcibiades is reported overdue at Barnard Highport, and is now officially considered missing. The J-2 capable vessel, leased by Tukera lines to Lambeth Factors, LIC, of Terra, left Terra over a month ago, bound for Barnard en route to Nuska, and did not exit jump when scheduled. Alcibiades transmitted the normal messages before entering jump, and reported all systems working perfectly upon arrival at the jump point. Analysis of the jump signature on departure indicated nothing unusual.
A search of expected arrival points Barnard system revealed no recent debris, and no distress calls or other messages have been received. All systems within 36 parsecs are on alert for a possible misjump. The official announcement indicated there is no evidence of hijacking or sabotage, but these and other possibilities cannot be discounted until more evidence comes to light.
Prometheus/Solomani Rim 121-1119A body at first believed to be that of Jeffrey Long was discovered in a little used-storage room in a cheap hostel on the outskirts of the downport today. Documents found with the body, which was in an advanced state of decomposition, led investigators to believe the body was that of Jeffrey Long, the former reporter missing from a private sanitarium from which he escaped recently. A more detailed investigation of the crime revealed that the body was not Long's, but that of Fustin Hanover, a local minor criminal wanted by police for a number of minor burglaries in and around the startown.
Police theorize Hanover may have robbed Long or burgled the reporter's quarters acquired the documents in that way. Officials are still investigating the circumstances Hanover's death, but have no reason to suspect Long is involved other than as one of Hanover's victims.
Muan Gwi/Solomani Rim 114-1119Received: 114-1119
A spokesman for the Imperial Navy announced today that Imperial Navy Intelligence operatives had thwarted an assassination attempt again s former Solomani Confederation Naval officer Alexander Spyridion. Spyridion recently announced that he would undertake a series of speaking engagements dealing with conditions in the Confederation Navy.
The Imperial spokesman had no details on the nature of the plot, and would neither confirm or deny that INI believes Solomani Confederation to be responsible. An unnamed official speculated that it could as easily be Solomani disgusted with Spyridion acting on their own as an officially sanctioned assassination.
Spyridion was not available for comment.
Terra/Solomani Rim 098-1119Received 098-1119
Jeffrey Long has vanished from the private sanitarium in the Solomani Rim where he was a patient. Long, formerly a reporter for the Phoenix Sun news organization, is the author of a series of articles looking into rumors of a condition known as 'hyperspace sickness," evidence for which Long alleges has been suppressed by a military and industrial cabal. No information is available regarding the location of the sanitarium, the details of his stay there, or when it was discovered he was missing.
Long had been admitted to the facility under an assumed name in order to receive treatment for an unspecified mental disease, but was recently transferred to another facility because he believed that one of his fellow patients was a hired assassin. A spokesman for the family of Mr. Long said that a private investigation was underway, and that in deference to the family's wishes police and other authorities have not yet been brought into the case.
Muan Gwi/Solomani Rim 095-1119Received 095-1119
Alexander Spyridion, formerly a senior officer in the Solomani Confederation Navy, held a press conference to announce his plans for a speaking tour covering several subsectors. A recent defector, he intends to visit over twenty Imperial worlds in the next year, raising support for dissident factions within the Confederation.
"I am no traitor to the Solomani people," he declared. "I remain as committed to their Cause as ever. What I have betrayed, quite willingly, is the corrupt regime of Solomani Party and SolSec. This regime has done far more than any external aggression to crush the spirit out of my beloved Solomani race."
Alexander Spyridion made no announcements regarding his itinerary, although unconfirmed reports claim that his first major engagement will be on Dingir. Imperial officials familiar with his case offered no comment, although one source indicated that within reason, he is free to move about Imperial space and speak publicly wherever he wishes.
Shululsish/Solomani Rim 085-1119Received 085-1119
The Office of the Duke has issued a public statement regarding ongoing rumors of health problems suffered by Duke Iwoahlarko. "The Duke is in fine health for an Aslan of his advanced age," said ducal spokesman Royston Ishaagima. "Clearly we cannot expect his benevolent presence in Imperial affairs for many more years, but at present he is fully capable of attending to his duties."
Spokesman Ishaagima deflected all questions regarding the ducal succession. Duke Iwoahlarko has no acknowledged heirs of his own body, so his duchy is likely to escheat to the Emperor upon his death, who will no doubt chose a replacement rather than allow the title to become extinct.
Arkiirkii/Solomani Rim 078-1119Received 078-1119
Imperial Navy and Marine forces have been placed on high alert throughout Harlequin subsector, by order of Duke hault-Fionbrea. Navy spokesmen have issued terse statements regarding an upcoming deployment, but all questions regarding details have been referred to the Office of the Duke.
Capital/Core 069-1119Sources at the Imperial Palace today revealed that Emperor Strephon has chosen another of the 12 artists to create the official Imperial portraits for his upcoming Golden Jubilee.
The Emperor will choose one artist for each of several forms, including two and three dimensional photographs, several sculptures, and a formal painting showing the Emperor in the traditional pose on the Iridium throne. Strephon has chosen sculptor Enliis Okanta-Koroma, to create a lifesize bust in in bronze.
Okanta-Korom is most famous for her abstract sculptures in fiberglass and other media, but has executed portrait busts and full-figure monumental statues for patrons throughout the Imperium. She will create the original using a lost wax technique, and it will be scanned and duplicated in a variety of substances for sale to the public.
Dlan/Ilelish 062-1119Received: 062-1119
Lana Shashiig, personal assistant for Sir Aella Wendemere, announced today that the famed poet and novelist has decided to retire from his literary efforts and spend his remaining days in his home on Dlan.
" Sir Aella's health has been failing for several years," Shashiig explained, "and while he could continue for a few more years, he wants to retire and spend his remaining days working in his garden. "What use are laurels,' he told me 'If you can't rest on them.'"
Sir Aella is best known for The Benasi Papers, a nineteen book series chronicling the adventures of a Terran family in the early years of the Second Imperium, but he also produced dozens of small books of poetry and a translation of Shakespeare into Vilani.
Ilelish/Ilelish 058-1119Lawyers for the seven Suerrat protestors recently jailed on Ilelish's capital city of Anitarra have filed a formal appeal of that conviction. The Seven Suerrat were found guilty of disorderly conduct and refusing to obey an order to disperse in connection with a demonstration that took place in front of the Government House (173-1118), and that conviction has been appealed to the High Court on Illelish, the highest judicial review body on that world.
A spokesman for the seven convicted Suerrat has based the appeal on alleged procedural irregularities during the trial, and has asked the five justices of Ilelish's highest tribunal to review their allegations and overturn the conviction.
Knabbib/Core 052-1119Professor Julian Trane, distinguished interstellar historian, has accepted an offer to conduct a special series of advanced seminars at the University of Sylea. "Professor Trane is taking a 5 year sabbatical to conduct research in the university's archives," a university press release announced today, "and we wanted to take advantage of his presence on Capital." The university did not announce when the seminars would begin, merely that the professor was expected to arrive within a few weeks.
The university spokesman could not identify the nature of Professor Trane's researches, but his seminars will deal with the cyclical nature of historical events.
Capital/Core 049-1119Persistant rumors of unprecedented desertions from the Solomani Navy were unofficially confirmed today when sources within the Imperial Navy's highest circles confirmed that the Imperial Navy is sheltering an unspecified number of Solomani Naval officers in the Imperial portions of the Solomani Rim Sector.
The Solomani Naval officers have reportedly fled to the Imperium in the wake of the failure of the Solomani Navy to contain the crisis in Kulkulcan sector. These officers are said to be fleeing an impending purge of "disloyal elements" by Solomani Security, and in many cases, are bring their families with them.
Capital/Core 040-1119Baron Sir Nigel Rudel of Ynsulmaar (Admiral, Imperial Navy retired) has arrived at the campus of the University of Sylea, where he will begin work on the multi-volume History of the Fourth Frontier War
The Baron retired from the Imperial Navy on 120-1118, after a long and distinguished career, including several years as an instructor on fleet operations for the Imperial Navy.
Disi/Zarushagar 032-1119Received 032-1119
In a press release dated 286-1118, Imperial Navy Public relations officer Lieutenant Luis Hutara announced that the Fleet Exercises in Zarushagar will commence next week, and conclude with a mock invasion of this system on 332-1118
Capital/Core 029-1119Speculation continues among military observers on the extent of the crisis facing the Solomani Confederation Navy in the wake of the problems in Kulkulcan sector. Rumors abound of Solomani deserters from the officer corps, fleeing an impending purge of "Disloyal elements" and seeking asylum in the Imperium and other polities
Although no verifiable Solomani officer has been located, officials with the Imperial Navy have declined to deny that they are sheltering one or more Solomani deserters and their families in the border areas of the Solomani Rim.
Capital/Core 012-1119The provost of the University of Sylea today specifically denied rumors that Doctor Ganidiirsi Simalr, Banasdan Professor of Comparative Sophontology at the University will head a special team sent to study the recently discovered non-Human ruins on the third moon of Excalibur (in the Sword Worlds subsector of the Spinward Marches).
The provost's statement said, in part: "Doctor Simalr . . . excuse me, Doctor Frater Simalr . . . has not been invited to join any expedition to Excalibur -- the IISS has not told us what their plans are towards the findings there, but it has to be assumed that they have teams of their own much closer to the site. As far as I know, the IISS has not invoted any faculty member of this university to travel to Excalibur, and the university has no intention of sending a team of our own."
Capital/Core 008-1119Informed sources in the Imperial Navy believe that the Solomani central government plans an extensive reorganization of its naval forces in the wake of the Confederation navy's inability to deal with the crisis in Kulkulcan sector. "Disloyal elements" will be purged, according to the source, and "politically unreliable" officers will be demoted or cashiered.
the public relations office of the Imperial Navy had no comment on the situation, other to say that Imperial Naval Intelligence is studying the situation.
Capital/Core 001-1119In the publication of the Holiday List of the Imperial nobility today, the name of Doctor Ganidiirsi Simalr, Banasdan Professor of Comparative Sophontology at the University of Sylea, was added to the list of Fraters of the Order of the Arrow (the knightly order reserved for honoring members and honory members of the IISS). Rumors last year said that the Doctor's knighthood was to be announced with the last Birthday list, but that did not occur.
With the addition of Doctor Simalr's name to the Holiday List, a short statement followed that he was knighted by the Emperor in an informal ceremony earlier in the day, and would be formally received by the order at it's next official meeting, on 010-1119
No one at the Imperial Palace would comment on the delay in knighting the Doctor.
Excalibur/Sword Worlds 345-1118Received 345-1118
Sources within the Imperial Interstellar Scout Service have formally confirmed the discovery of non-Human ruins on the third moon of Excalibur, and announced that the client government on Excalibur has requested the IISS to assign an investigative team to oversee local scientists in the study of the ruins.
No further information is available, but the IISS indicated they will issue a full report as soon as the preliminary investigation is concluded.
Ilelish/Ilelish 335-1118Received 335-1118
A tribunal of justices today found seven Suerrat activists guilty of disorderly conduct and refusing to obey an order to disperse in connection with a demonstration that took place in front of the Government House in Ilelish's capital city of Anitarra on 173-1118. The justices (in accordance with local regulations on Ilelish) reduced the charges brought against the Suerrat, indicating they felt that the accused were less culpable in the incident than the government charges indicated.
The Suerrat were arrested earlier this year for inciting a riot during demonstrations outside the Government House in Ilelish's capital city of Anitarra. The Suerrat were demonstrating against the growing use of Galanglic as a first language among the youth of their homeworld, when the crowd erupted into violence.
Excalibur/Sword Worlds 334-1118Received 334-1118
More details came to light regarding the archeological find on the third moon of this Imperial client world. Sources within the IISS leaked part of an excavator's report indicating that the ruins do not appear to have been created by Humaniti, and show no characteristics of the Ancients. While the report does not include the section dealing with chronology and dating of the ruins, our sources state that dating indicates the ruins are less then 20,000 years old, and are clearly artificial constructs by at least one and possibly two species of sophonts not native to the Excalibur system.
Excalibur/Sword Worlds 319-1118Received 319-1118
Rumors of a major archeological find on the third moon of this world were confirmed today, when sources with the IISS, speaking under conditions of anonymity, revealed that they have evidence that ruins of a previously unknown type have been discovered. Although poorly preserved, first reports indicate that they are not of Ancient origin, but they seem to have been created by a non-human sophont species previously unknown to the IISS.
Our sources indicated that the IISS has not yet been formally called in, as the political situation on the Imperial client world is sensitive.
Mora/Mora 316-1118Received 316-1118
Prince Varian (Emperor Strephon's nephew) arrived at Mora (Spinwared Marches 3124) with his entourage aboard the luxury liner Dumaani as part of the prince's Imperium-wide grand tour. The prince requested that no formal celebration of his presence take place, and stayed only long enough to pay courtesy visits to Archduke Norris and Duchess Delphine, announcing himself as merely as "Duke of Sanches," and thus not requiring honors and salutes as a Prince of the Imperial family.
By traveling as a Duke instead of a Prince, Varian may have provoked a minor incident that could have proven highly embarrassing. The Prince's liner was halted for three hours while SPA officers boarded the liner to serve notice of a violation of customs regulations and conduct a search. The Prince cooperated completely with starport officials, and after the search was completed (nothing illegal was found), the Dumaani was granted clearance to leave system.
The Prince declined to comment on the search. SPA officials and Duchess Delphine's seneschal also declined to comment, although the SPA said they had received information indicating one of the crew was involved in illegal activities. Archduke Norris' office said merely that it would look into the affair to make sure no laws (Imperial or local) were violated. An official in the Archduke's office remarked that Varian, as an Imperial Prince, could have invoked the privileges of his rank and refused the search, but then he would have been honor-bound to remain on Mora until he could receive the ceremonies due him.
Ilelish/Ilelish 312-1118Received 312-1118
The trial of seven Suerrat activists on incitement to riot charges ended today. The presiding justices have sequestered themselves to consider the evidence presented, and will render a verdict within a few days.
The Suerrat were arrested earlier this year for inciting a riot during demonstrations outside the Government House in Ilelish's capital city of Anitarra. The Suerrat were demonstrating against the growing use of Galanglic as a first language among the youth of their homeworld, when the crowd erupted into violence. The defense alleged that the police overreacted to a peaceful demonstration, and attacked the crowd without provocation.
Capital/Core 302-1118Sources at the Imperial Palace today revealed that Emperor Strephon has chosen one of the 12 artists to create the official Imperial portraits for his upcoming Golden Jubilee.
The Emperor will choose one artist for each of several forms, including two and three dimensional photographs, several sculptures, and a formal painting showing the Emperor in the traditional pose on the Iridium throne. Strephon has chosen Solomani painter Mobi Branjan Ibn-Daud, to create the formal two-dimensional portrait in the traditional oil on canvas technique.
Ibn-Daud, whose parents are from Vanefa in the Solomani Rim, came to Capital to study art at the University of Sylea nearly 11 years ago, and since that time has acquired a great reputation. Ibn-Daud works in a variety of media, and is well-known for his work in traditional oil as well as more modern media.
Medurma/Sapphyre 298-1118Received 298-1118
An anonymous source in the Ministry of Justice revealed today that investigators from the Imperial Navy felt there might be a connection between the murder of Colonel Hiroshi Enera in 1117 and the murder of Archduke Dulinor. Enera, former commander of the Ilelish Regiment of the Imperial Guard, resigned shortly after Dulinor's death, and was found dead in a hotel room here on 240-1116, while en route to his native world of Dlan.
The MoJ source revealed that two officers from the special group investigating Dulinor's murder were assigned to monitor local authorities involved in the investigation of Enera's murder (which remains unsolved) early in 1117. The officers were recently reassigned, and our source speculates it is because no link between the two deaths could be found. Local police and the Imperial Navy refused to comment on either case, claiming that the investigations were on-going.
Kurae/Zarushgaar 296-1118Received 296-1118
An Imperial Navy board of inquiry has ruled that the death of an Imperial Navy shuttle pilot was due to pilot error.
Ensign Jargas Hanuman was killed on 138-1118 during a training exercise in the outer Kurae system when a cargo shuttle crashed while attempting to dock with the Imperial dreadnought Smilodon. Three other personnel were seriously injured during the incident, but are expected to recover.
The board found that Hanuman over corrected and lost control of the shuttle at a critical moment in the docking maneuver, and collided with a structural support inside Smilodon's docking bay. The shuttle was severely damaged during the crash, and Smilodon sustained minor damage to the particular docking bay involved.
Lode/Zarushgaar 290-1118Received 290-1118
Baron Sir Nigel Rudel of Ynsulmaar, today announced that he will accept an offer from the University of Sylea Press to edit the university's upcoming History of the Fourth Frontier War.
"The Baron retired from the Imperial Navy on 120-1118, after a long and distinguished career," university spokesman Ramsey Khan Oberta said, "and has written several monographs on the war. He is a former instructor on fleet operations for the Imperial Navy, and will enhance the prestige of the work immensely."
Dlan/Ilelish 289-1118Received: 289-1118
The 457th meeting of the Khanu, the supreme synod of the Virasin faith concluded today, with the usually ceremony blessing all who participated and wishing them a safe journey home. The meeting had promised to be a major theological event, debating a central issue of the Virasin faith, namely whether Virasin that die non-violent deaths while not on Dlan may attain full revelation in the afterlife. The issue has been proposed for the agenda several times in the past, but has never been debated before the full Khanu.
In what commentators are calling a major anticlimax, however, the highly contentious issue was tabled until the next meeting, which will be in two years.
Ilelish/Ilelish 282-1118Received 282-1118
The presiding justices today ordered the courtroom sealed in the trial of seven Suerrat activists arrested earlier this year for inciting a riot. The trial has been continually interrupted by demonstrations both for and against the defendants, and after considerable deliberation, the tribunal of judges decided to ban all non-participants from the courtroom. The public may view the trial live via closed circuit holovision, but the judges will not allow any non-essential personnel into the courtroom.
The Suerrat, apalled at what they believe to be a deliberate attempt by the Imperium to absorb and weaken the unique culture of their homeworld, accused the Imperium and the Archduchess of Ilelish of "Cultural Genocide" were demonstrating against the growing use of Galanglic as a first language among the youth of their homeworld.
Dlan/Ilelish 278-1118Received 278-1118
Archduchess Isis Arepo Ilethian today formally requested that Harlan Sandoval Akis, her uncle's seneschal, assume control of Hutara Astrin Ilethian's affairs until her uncle is capable of resuming his duties or until further notice. Hutara Astrin Ilethian, the archduchess' uncle, is recovering from a stroke he suffered approximately 245-1118, but the archduchess' request indicates that his recovery is not proceeding as well as was originally hoped.
Ilelish/Ilelish 273-1118Received 273-1118
Archduchess Isis Arepo Ilethian today confirmed that she has requested the Imperial mint on Dlan to continue striking the commemorative credit coin, issued on 001-1118 in honor of the late Archduke of Ilelish, Dulinor Astrin Ilethian.
The coin, which bears the Archduke's portrait and a stylized representation of the great reft (which dominates the night sky on Dlan), has proven immensely popular, and despite the fact that the mint has produced the coin continuously since Holiday, demand continues to exceed the supply.
The Archduchess' requested that the mint continue to strike the coin until demand ceases
Ilelish/Ilelish 269-1118Received 269-1118
Opening arguments from the prosecution began today in the trial of seven Suerrat activists arrested earlier this year for inciting a riot during demonstrations outside the Government House in Ilelish's capital city of Anitarra. The Suerrat, apalled at what they beleive to be a deliberate attempt by the Imperium to absorb and weaken the unique culture of their homeworld, accused the Imperium and the Archduchess of Ilelish of “Cultural Genocide” were demonstrating against the growing use of Galanglic as a first language among the youth of their homeworld.
Imperial prosecutors are expected to accuse the Suerrat of conspiracy, and attempt tp prove that the violence was carefully orchestrated. The Suerrat intend to offer evidence that police overreacted to a peaceful demonstration.
Dlan/Ilelish 265-1118Received 265-1118
Archduchess Isis of Ilelish, in a press release issued today, announced that her uncle, Hutara Astrin Ilethian, is recovering from the minor stroke he suffered a few weeks ago.
"My uncle is a determined man," the Archduchess said, "and is already chafing under the restrictions of his therapy. He is expected to make a full recovery, but I will insist that he get himself some help in managing our family's affairs.
Ilethian retired from the Imperial Navy when his niece became Archduchess over two years ago in order to devote his full attention to the management of the family lands and business interests.
Capital/Core 256/1118At a short press conference today, General Mueni Arap Rutan, commanding officer of the Imperial Guard, announced that Colonel Murnas De'Angelo, commander of the Ilelish Regiment of the Imperial Guard, will be promoted to the rank of brigadier and transferred to a field command as of 275-1118. The current executive officer of the Ilelish Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Anthony hault-Khemiris, will be promoted to the rank of Colonel and assume command of the regiment.
Dlan/Ilelish 251-1118Received 251-1118
The seneschal for Hutara Astrin Ilethian, uncle of Archduchess Isis of Ilelish, confirmed that the former sector admiral suffered a minor stroke last week, and will spend the next few weeks in the care of his personal physician on the family estates.
Ilethian retired when his niece became Archduchess over two years ago in order to devote his full attention to the management of the family lands and business interests. "He's been driving himself pretty hard since that time," said Tadashi Conacht hault-Musillo (Ilethian's seneschal), "and his health has suffered. The rest of his staff and I have been unable to get him to take any kind of a break, and this is simply the inevitable result of overwork,
Archduchess Isis expressed concern for her uncle's health, and will visit him as soon as her duties permit.
Dlan/Ilelish 248-1118Received 248-1118
The unidentified witness against a barratry ring who escaped from MoJ protective custody on Dlan nearly 14 days ago has been found. Anonymous sources inside the Imperial Ministry of Justice confirmed today that the mysterious witness had been located and is once again under Imperial protection.
The witness had previously received immunity from prosecution in return for information on the perpetrators in a massive barratry scheme involving a number of starship captains and lower-level corporate officers at Hortelez et Cie.
Zimiin/Core 239-1118A major accident was avoided today by the skillful actions of Arlen Uantil, a shuttle pilot employed by the SPA at Hamilcar Starport. Uantil was a passenger on the inbound shuttle to Hamilcar highport from the outer system when Khugi Munioz, the pilot of the 95-ton shuttle suffered a seizure. Uantil, who happened to be on the flight deck at the time, administered first aid (saving Munioz’ life) and made an emergency landing of the full-loaded shuttle in a freight bay. No injuries resulted, and Munioz is currently in good condition at the highport SPA medical facility.
Medical personal are somewhat at a loss to explain Munioz’ attack. “Her medical records indicate she was in perfect health,” said the SPA’s medical director, “She’d just had her annual physical recently, and there was nothing to indicate anything amiss.”
Dlan/Ilelish 232-1118Received 232-1118
An anonymous source inside the Imperial Ministry of Justice admitted today that a key witness against a barratry ring is no longer in their custody. The unidentified witness escaped MoJ protective custody on Dlan last week, and is believed by MoJ officials to be trying to settle his personal affairs.
"This could be a serious mistake," the source commented, "Trying to contact any friend or acquaintance could subject the man to grave danger from unapprehended members of the conspiracy who want to prevent him from testifying -- all of his known associates will probably be under observation by those who wish him harm. We'll do what we can to find him before they do, but in these situations, who knows what can happen?"
The witness had previously received immunity from prosecution in return for information on the perpetrators in a massive barratry scheme involving a number of starship captains and lower-level corporate officers at Hortelez et Cie.
Dlan/Ilelish 221-1118Received 221-1118
Hortelez et Cie Divisional Director Jurgen Iwagami-Laragii issued a press release today announcing that investigators for the megacorporation's loss prevention division had uncovered a barratry scheme involving a number of starship captains and lower-level corporate officers. Undercover operatives infiltrated the organization, with the help of one of the conspirators, who received immunity from prosecution in return for information on the perpetrators.
Iwagami-Laragii announced that all key participants in the plot had been apprehended by corporate security and will be turned over to the Ministry of Justice office on Dlan for prosecution.
Warinir/Daibei 213-1118Calim Yei-jei, the director of the Ministry of Justice's Daibei Sector office, today announced that he will resign at the end of his current term. "I've had a great career," Yei-jei stated, "and I want to retire while I'm on a high note, and do nothing but write and watch my grandchildren grow up."
Calim Yei-jei achieved fame last year as the prosecutor who finally ran to ground the saboteurs responsible for the so-called Ulane Hoax. This is considered to be the high point of Yei-jei's career, even though some members of the MoJ believe that at least one of the perpetrators remain at large.
Dlan/Ilelish 196-1118Received: 196-1118
A mysterious fire in the downport offices of the Planetary Transit Office has been ruled accidental after 10 day's investigation by local police and fire officials.
"We suspected arson initially because of the presence of certain accelerants," a spokesman said, "but subsequent investigation revealed that the fire was started by an aromatic incense burner, sometimes used by office workers during their breaks, left unattended overnight. The aromatic oil used in the burner was the cause of the rapid spread of the flames, and the reason we initially suspected arson."
"The responsible parties have been disciplined."
Capital/Core 186-1118A spokesman for the IISS announced today that Doctor Ganidiirsi Simalr, newly appointed Banasdan Professor of Comparative Sophontology at the University of Sylea has been asked to deliver an address before a special committee of the Moot on preserving cultural and ethnic diversity within the Imperium.
Unusually, the Emperor Strephon (in his capacity as Archduke of Sylea) will attend the meeting, and Princess Ciencia Iphegenia has been invited because of her great personal interest in the subject matter.
Doctor Simalr, son of the Duke of Ushra, was attached to the IISS Contact and Liaison Branch for several years (as a consultant from the university), where he made a name for himself in the field of comparative sophontology. He is due to be honored with a knighthood in the prestigious Order of the Arrow on the next Birthday List.
Ilelish/Ilelish 173-1118Received 173-1118
Demonstrations erupted outside the Government House in Ilelish's capital city of Anitarra. The demonstrators belong to a group of Suerrat preservationists appalled at what they see as the "encroachment" of Imperial culture on their homeworld, especially the growing use of Galanglic as a first language among the youth of Ilelish.
"This is nothing less than cultural genocide," explained Sen-vat ma-Happat, a spokesperson for the demonstrators. "Archduke Dulinor understood our concerns and was preparing to take action to preserve our way of life, but has his daughter followed through with his plans? Has the Imperium done anything to help us stave off the loss of our native ways? We will not sit idly by and watch ourselves be subsumed into a bland Imperial culture that does not recognize our uniqueness."
There was no official comment from Archduchess Isis, but a source at the Government House, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said "This is nothing new. Radical Suerrat groups have been blackmailing the Imperium for generations. The late Archduke believed he could avoid such confrontations by co-opting them into his efforts to renew the Imperium. We can see now the folly of such an approach."
Banasdan/Solomani Rim 169-1118Received 169-1118
A humorous incident occurred today as highport workers tried to sort out why the wrong cuisine was delivered to a passenger liner earlier today. "I took delivery on three month's supplies, just like I ordered," said chief steward Hanford Falco of the passenger liner Majorca, "The only thing wrong was that they were for Hivers. We found out because one of the cooks wanted to make baklava for the crew before we loaded passengers and started poking around among the containers. Well, you don't have to crack many packages of Hiver fungus to realize that somebody's made a serious error."
Highport officials blame an inexperienced clerk for the error, which sent the supplies for the recently-arrived Hiver embassy ship to the passenger liner, and vice versa. A spokesman for the Hiver ship said no apology was necessary, "We often consume supplies intended for other races -- sometimes by design and sometimes by accident. It is one of the great pleasures of travel."
Capital/Core 161-1118Sources inside the imperial palace have indicated that Emperor Strephon will reward Doctor Ganidiirsi Simalr with a knighthood in the prestigious Order of the Arrow, the order devoted to those who have achieved distinction in interstellar study. Doctor Simalr, son of the Duke of Ushra, was attached to the IISS Contact and Liaison Branch for several years (as a consultant from the university), where he made a name for himself in the field of comparative sophontology.
Dr. Simalr was appointed to the Banasdan Chair of Comparative Sophontology at the University of Sylea on 120-1118. The formal announcement wil be made with the publication of the Birthday List later this year. Dr. Simalr will be knighted in a formal ceremony at some unspecified time soon thereafter -- the palace sources did not reveal when this would be.
Warinir/Daibei 156-1118Received 156-1118
In a prepared statement, the press secretary for Duke Craig Horvath announced that the Duke will not attend the beginning of this year's fleet maneuvers in the Warinir system, for what the secretary described "personal reasons."
"His grace likes to oversee training maneuvers personally, but this year he has chosen to spend the time with family," said press secretary Aella Lavosier. "He will resume normal activities with 10 days, and will be able to oversee the final stages of the exercises shortly thereafter."
Kurae/Zarashugar 140-1118Received 140-1118
An Imperial Navy crewman was killed and three more were seriously injured during a training exercise in the outer Kurae system when a cargo shuttle crashed while attempting to dock with the Imperial dreadnought Smilodon. Details are being withheld pending an inquiry, but it appears that human error on the part of the shuttle's pilot may have been responsible
Vland/Vland 138-1118Received 138-1118
The Historical Preservation Bureau of Vland has caused quite a stir by denying an archeological permit to Professor Enli Dahtha of the University of Ot Zell. Dahtha, best known for a recent article in the sophontological studies journal Lurashu Garshanri, in which he identifies the Ancients with the mysterious shiimsarnii of Vilani legend, wished to visit the Kunashaakri region to test gather evidence in support of his theories. However, the Preservation Bureau believes the ruins in the region would not withstand the in-depth examination Professor Dahtha intends to pursue.
"This is outrageous," Dahtha explained. "My examination will be no more intrusive or destructive than any other that's been to the site -- possibly even less so. I have access to state of the art densitometer and equipment that will allow my party to gather the information from a hovering air/raft. We have guaranteed the Bureau that not a speck of dust will be disturbed. I contend the Preservation Bureau has something to hide."
The spokesperson for the Bureau declined to comment, but that didn't prevent academics from across the Domain of Vland from doing so. "Professor Dahtha sees conspiracies everywhere." explained Dr. Kevin Ikira, a noted archeologist and expert on ancient Vilani sites. "The fact is he's advancing a very dubious claim, namely that Vilani religion owes its origin to encounters with the Ancients millennia ago. That theory's been discounted for centuries. Dahtha's just trying to give himself some notoriety in order to boost the sales of his next book."
Alekvadin/Core 132-1118A spokesman for the port director at Twunchel Highport reported today that it now believes that the chemical spill reported a few weeks ago may not have been an accident, as was initially reported. Investigators for the SPA have uncovered evidence that the grav loader operator responsible for the spill may have intentionally caused the spill.
"We think he may have been trying to create a diversion in order to cover a theft from the bonded warehouse section, but that his confederates were not able to penetrate highport security, and abandoned the operation." The official declined to give specific details. "We have a member of the gang in custody, and we are hoping to use his testimony to help apprehend her partners in crime.
There were no fatalities in the spill, although several starport personnel had to undergo decontamination and were being held in the port's medical facility for observation.
Capital/Core 128-1118Dr. Enil Shugishviilii, a hematologist in private practice, has petitioned the Imperial Navy to be allowed to examine the tissue samples recovered from the wreckage Archduke Dulinor's gig two years ago. Dr. Shugishviilii believes that the Navy was too hasty in its conclusion that the tissues indicated that the Archduke was present on the gig when it exploded.
"The Archduke, like many wealthy people, traveled with quantities of blood and other medical supplies in case of an emergency," the Doctor's petition reasons, "It is my contention that the Navy identified these as coming from Dulinor's body. While this does not prove he wasn't killed in the explosion, it casts doubt on that conclusion."
Navy spokesmen had no comment on Shugishviilii's remarks.
Capital/Core 125-1118Sources at the Imperial Palace today revealed that Emperor Strephon has almost settled on the artists who will be commisioned to create the official Imperial portraits for his upcoming Golden Jubilee.
The Emperor will choose one artist for each of several forms, including two and three dimensional photographs, several sculptures, and a formal painting showing the Emperor in the traditional pose on the Iridium throne. Strephon has narrowed the list for each type of art to less than four names, but the source declined to reveal the artists under consideration.
Capital/Core 118-1118The imperial family will attend the first performance of a new symphony by Terran composer Alar Falco, titled Reflections. The performance marks the opening of the 1118-1119 concert season for the Sylean Philharmonic Orchestra, and it is unusual for the entire imperial family to attend, but both Strephon and Ciencia Iphegenia are said to be interested in the compositions of Dr. Falco.
The opening performance will be 130-1118, at Artemsus Concert Hall on the campus of Sylean University.
Monmouth/Delphi 110-1118Pirate attacks on shipping in the Monmouth system have risen sharply in the past three months, Imperium officials confirmed today. Most of the attacks have focused on capturing the cargo of trading vessels entering the system, though three ships have also been hijacked. Crew members of the ships say that the pirates seemed very well organized. Descriptions of the ships and perpetrators suggest that the pirates are members of the Fallani Syndicate, a criminal organization whose operations throughout the Fornast, Old Expanses, and Delphi sectors seem to be on the rise. The Fallani Syndicate is suspected to have headquarters on Granicus, in the Glimmerdrift Reaches sector. Imperial Navy officials would not comment on the matter, except to say that it is under investigation.
Capital/Core 100-1118A spokesman for the University of Sylea announced that Doctor Ganidiirsi Simalr has been appointed to the Banasdan Chair of Comparative Sophontology at that institution. Doctor Simalr, son of the Duke of Ushra, was attached to the IISS Contact and Liaison Branch as a consultant for the university.
Doctor Hasni Shukov, chairman of the Department of Sophontology, was quoted as saying: "It is a little unusual for someone so young as Gani to be appointed to such a high position -- those familiar with his work, however, were not at all surprised." Doctor Simalr will begin his duties on 120-1118.
Alekvadin/Core 097-1118Reports of a toxic chemical leak caused officials at Twunchel Highport to order portions of the orbital facility evacuated today. While in the process of unloading a freighter, an inexperienced grav loader operator bumped against a discharge hose, fracturing a fitting and causing a leak of potentially toxic hydrocarbons.
At first it was believed that the chemicals had leaked into the ventilation system, causing starport officials to order the evacuation of several loading bays as a precautionary measure, but the spill remained isolated to a single ship loading bay, and was quickly cleaned up by starport Hazmat personnel.
A spokesman for the port director revealed that there were no fatalities, although several starport personnel had to undergo decontamination and were being held in the port's medical facility for observation.
Capital/Core 085-1118Almost the entire staff of the Capital branch of the Traveller News Service has come down with a non-fatal but highly debilitating virus. Classified variously as "a bug," "that thing that's going around," and "some kind of flu," the disease manifests itself as a fever, headache, and general malaise lasting several days, settling first in the nasal passages, moving to the throat, and then on to the bronchi of it's victims. At least one editor was also afflicted with watering of the eyes so bad as to interfere with vision for hours at a time.
This plague is expected to run it's course within 10-14 days, and everything will be back to normal, but it has caused considerable discomfort here at TNS/Capital.
Lode/Zarushgaar 073-1118Received 073-1118
Admiral Sir Nigel Rudel, Baron of Ynsulmaar, announced he will retire as of 120 of this year. "I have served the Emperor for many years," the Admiral said in a tersely worded press release, "and I've decided I'd prefer to spend some time with my grandchildren while I'm young enough to enjoy it.
Terra/Solomani Rim 062-1118Received 062-1118
Jeffrey Long (the former Terran reporter who until recently was held Imperial custody) believes someone is trying to kill him. An anonymous source states that Long, a patient at a private sanitarium in the Solomani Rim, has asked to be moved to a different institution. The source states that Long believes that his food is being drugged, and fears that one of his fellow patients is a hired assassin.
The source states that the family will accede to Long's wishes, and will arrange for him to be transferred to a new facility under an assumed name.
Long believes that a mysterious cabal of industrialists and the military seek to silence him because of his researches into "hyperspace sickness," the disease which Long claims is the subject of a massive cover-up.
Capital/Core 048-1118A spokesman for the Imperial family announced today that Prince Lucan is adjusting to his new life as a Naval Cadet very well. The Prince enrolled in the Imperial Naval Academy last year after his twin brother Varian departed on a grand tour of the Imperium, and has been assigned to a special group of cadets aboard the flagship of the Dagudashaag fleet, the battleship Smilodon.
Capital/Core 047-1118Famed comedian Anton Wilson Peale announced today that he will commence a grand tour of the Imperium, in celebration of the Golden Jubilee of the Emperor Strephon.
I'm going to start a couple of years ahead of the Emperor, because Strephon is a bigger draw than me," Peale remarked to reporters, "We won't be in the same place at the same time, and I'm going to a few worlds he won't see, but other than that, think of me as his opening act
Peale told reporters he will announce a precise schedule for the three year Jubilee Tour in a few weeks, but that he intends to depart on 909-1118, well in advance of the Imperial family's departure.
Terra/Solomani Rim 045-1118Received: 045-1118
A spokesman for the family of Jeffrey Long announced today that Mr. Long has been admitted to a private mental care facility in Imperial territory, somewhere in the Solomani Rim.
Long, formerly a reporter for the Phoenix Sun news organization, is the author of a series of articles looking into rumors of a condition known as 'hyperspace sickness," evidence for which Long alleges has been suppressed by a military and industrial cabal.
Mr. Long believes he is in considerable personal danger from those who seek to silence him, and because of this his location remains a secret known only to close family members and his legal representatives.
Ludmilla/Solomani Rim 040-1118Received 040-1118
The Ludmillan government has released a statement denouncing "terrorist violence" in the nearby Boskone system. "Pirate forces have struck at fueling stations operated by Tukera Lines and Sharurshid. We call on the sponsor of these attacks to stand down, or face dire consequences."
Ludmillan planetary naval forces are reportedly planning an extended patrol in Boskone system, which is nominally under Ludmillan sovereignty. The system is currently the focus of a prolonged dispute over transit and refueling rights, involving the Ludmillan government, several Imperial merchant carriers, and the Vegan tuhuir Ewm Shao Gwi.
Dlan/Ilelish 031-1119With much fanfare, the leaders of the Virasan faith opened the 457th meeting of the Khanu, or Supreme Synod, in the holy city of Rimblan. By tradition, the Khanu meets at least once a decade to discuss matters of import to Virasins. Often, these matters are worldly concerns, such as the reorganization of administrative boundaries or the assessment of candidates for the dilanu. However, the 457th Khanu seems likely to be a major theological synod. In contention is a central issue of the faith, namely whether Virasin that die non-violent deaths while not on Dlan may attain full revelation in the afterlife.
This issue pits the faith's conservative and liberal wings against one another. Conservatives believe that there is neither scriptural nor traditional justification for this change in doctrine. Reform clergymen argue that the stricture against dying offworld is simply a holdover from the early days of the faith and more a statement of Dlani nationalism than religious truth. It promises to be a heated debate.
Shululsish/Solomani Rim 022-1118Received 022-1118
The Office of the Duke announced today that Iwohlarko, Duke of Alderamin, would be spending several days at Aggarish Naval Hospital for a physical examination and treatment.
Sir Rickard Tallyns, the Duke's personal spokesman, issued the following statement: "The Duke's health is as sound as that of any Aslan male of his age. His condition is not life-threatening and his physicians expect a full recovery within a few days."
Details of the Duke's medical condition were not available to the press.
Capital/Core 019-1118Elements of the fleets of Dagudashaag and Core Sectors are will engage in a series of combined maneuvers over the next few months. The fleets will divide into two teams, and simulate an invasion of Dagudashaag by a hostile invading force -- Core's fleet will simulate the invaders, Dagudashaag's fleet will defend.
Terra/Solomani Rim 007-1118Received 007-1118
A spokesman for Archduke Adair announced today that the Archduke has granted the appeal of relatives of Jeffrey Long to release the former reporter from the prison ward of the mental hospital where he has been held for several years into private care.
Long, formerly a reporter for the Phoenix Sun news organization, is the author of a series of articles looking into rumors of a condition known as 'hyperspace sickness," evidence for which Long alleges has been suppressed by a military and industrial cabal.
The archduke declined to release details of where Mr. Long will be transferred or when the release will take place, citing privacy concerns. Mr. Long believes he is in considerable personal danger from those who seek to silence him.
Capital/Core 001-1118The emperor issued his annual Holiday message today, wishing all citizens of the Imperium luck, prosperity, and health in the upcoming 1118th year of the Third Imperium, and in years to come.
Capital/Core 365-1117The personal assistant for reknowned sculptor Trow Shadii-Eriskany refused to confirm or deny that the controversial artist has received a commission to create a work celebrating the late Archduke Dulinor, killed last year in an explosion that investigators labeled "Murder by person or persons unknown."
Shadii-Eriskany is widely know for her anti-Imperial treatment of her subjects, and her controversial approach to her art.
Capital/Core 364-1117Informed sources today confirmed that the Imperial mint on Dlan will issue a commemorative credit coin in honor of the late Archduke of Ilelish, Dulinor Astrin Ilethian. The obverse will bear the Archduke's portrait, the reverse a stylized representation of the great reft, which dominates the night sky on Dlan. The design was personally chosen by Dulinor's daughter, Archduchess Isis Arepo Ilethian, and the dies were executed by artisans at the mint before her departure.
The Archduchess has requested that several million of the coins be issued and released into circulation throughout the domain of Ilelish, in addition to the normal minting of specially polished and packaged coins intended solely for coin collectors. "My father was a man of the people," the Archduchess said, "and he would want all of the people if the domain to see and hold this coin, not just a privileged few."
The Archduchess took the dies back with her when she returned earlier this year, and minting of the coin will commence on Dlan on 001-1118.
Capital/Core 363-1117Professor Dympna Ehara-Wilkinson has been appointed to head the Department of Vilani Literature at the University of Sylea. Professor Ehara-Wilkinson has been on the faculty of the university for nearly a decade, and her appointment marks the first appointment of a non-Vilani to the position is well ove