Cortex News Service, the 'verse's source for news in SL

CNS Target of Attempted Bombing on Al Raqis

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 23:38:00 GMT

By Tillery Woodhen
Cortex News Service

The Cortex News Service bureau on Al Raqis was the target of an attempted bombing this week.

Two devices were discovered when CNS CEO Tillery Woodhen came in to make a routine check on the office. Authorities were immediately contacted and were able to defuse the bombs with no injuries.

The Al Raqis authorties refused to speculate on who placed the bombs and why. "We recovered two devices. Our invesigators are examining currently examining all of the evidence," said Al Raqis Chief Magistrate Joan Al Jofar. "We have a zero tolerance on Al Raqis for this sort of behavior. Bombings outside Kanley will investigated and the perpetrators will be brought to justice."

"The Great Houses know how to handle vendetta," she added. "This bombing attempt was clearly made by an amateur."

Woodhen has his own suspicions but chose not to release them to the press.

The bureau is across the central place from the warehouse and Al Raqis offices of Faith Industries.

AD: Habana Humidor And Cigar

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 23:33:00 GMT

The finest in the Verse. Samples available
at Suzanne's Laundry and Bath on Persephone.

Blue Sun Announces Factory Opening

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 23:29:00 GMT

Blue Sun Signal

BlueSun is pleased to make applications to prospective employees available at the new BlueSun Special Projects Factory. While the majority of high level positions have been filled, there still exist a need for security guards (on call) and caterers. Due to the nature of the work, the security guard position applicants will undergo multiple testing phases prior to becoming a verified employee.

Please inquire of Miss Berry, the first in the new synthetic custom made AI line offered by BlueSun, if you are interested. Deemed the "Like a Flower" line, these synthetic AIs are designed to meet your specifications in terms of appearance. The AI memory is flashed using a series of proprietary technologies and the AI will be whoever you want it to be based upon preferences.

Addressing the concerns of ethicists and religious leaders, BlueSun has made it their policy to not create any bots for the purposes of sexual activity. "Such things may take place, but we don't want to know about it if they do", stated Miss Berry, BlueSun's newest spokesperson, shown here with a number of visitors to the new facility.

Blue Sun Update

Inquiries related to BlueSun Special Projects should continue to be relayed to Ms. Zhangsun in the Corporate Headquarters, via either of the capable office staff, Emma Ditko or Lucy Applemoor.

While Ms. Zhangsun's office is always open, and she is happy to see visitors by appointment, due to extensive travel she will not necessarily be able to meet with visitors who arrive without an appointment.

If you do not have an appointment, you risk arrest and possible incarceration for trespassing. Please do not attempt to enter the BlueSun Office areas without an escort.

Thank you for your understanding in this matter.

Girolami Medical Centre Scheduled for Closure

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 23:21:00 GMT

The Zenobia Times

<:od>February 4 - Today it was announced that the Girolami Medical Centre, located in the Pleione Province, will be closing its doors later this month.

Famous for charity work both at home and off-world, the Girolami Medical Centre has been recognized as a leader in the interplanetary medical community. Providing services to citizens and non-citizens alike, the hospital has offered an array of services ranging from simple heart bypass and cloned organ transplants to cybernetic implants and nerve and tissue regeneration procedures.

Sources from the Ministry of Health and Reanimation (MOHR) have stated that new facilities are being considered in a number of locations.

[OOC - we are moving some of our parcels. Stay tuned!]

Obituary: Aurora Littleboots

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:32:00 GMT

Blue Sun Signal

BlueSun sends condolences to the family of Aurora LittleBoots.

We are certain that Miss Aurora will be missed by those who loved her.

Aurora is pictured here with Miss Jai Raghilda.

Her death has been ruled accidental by the Hale's Moon Sheriff.

Hale's Moon Starstrucks Reopening with Barista Service

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:17:00 GMT

Hale's Moon Herald

Hale's Moon Starstrucks Reopening with Barista Service.

Hale Resident Leia will be working there, but it is automated when during times when there is no live wait staff.

Zenobia Opens Embassy on Al Raqis

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:14:00 GMT

The Zenobia Times

January 20 - Lord Senenmut Flanagan visited Al Raqis earlier today to open the newly-established Zenobian embassy. The Noble Lord of Zenobia's leading family gave his approval to the efforts of newly-appointed Ambassador Jai Raghida and Manager of Estates Zeno Baxton.

Decorated with art from the private collections of the nobility, the embassy will offer full consular services. Embassy staff will pursue trade and treaty negotiations with the Great Houses of Al Raqis and the settlement of Splintered Rock.

While Zenobia remains a member state in the Union of Allied Planets, she is exercising her right to conclude certain treaties with foreign powers.

Asked if the embassy will be flying the flag of the UAP, Manager of Estates Zeno Baxton said, "We are here to represent House Zenobia. We would never presume to speak for the Central Government. "

A formal opening ceremony will be held at a date to be determined.

United Systems Directorate Condemns Alliance Actions on Shadow

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 00:01:00 GMT

By Delta Sweetwater
Special to CNS

After the events that led to the destruction of Shadow, more and more voices condemn the actions taken by the Alliance. Recently the United Systems Directorate released an official statement condemning the bombing of Shadow as a “terrible and unnecessary act of violence”. Furthermore, the USD held a press Conference on Acriobrea regarding the happenings on Shadow and presented another survivor of the nuclear apocalypse.

Lt.Col. John Collins, Officer of the United Systems Military: Ground Forces was on the surface on November 7.th and was caught in the conflict. “I was on leave and spend some of my free time on Shadow, together with a friend of mine when I saw bright flashes in the sky. I knew on the instance that it were re-entry vehicles from Orbital Weapons. We were in the center of the town and I shouted to get out asap.” Colonel Collins said.

On the question how he survived he said “I was wearing a power Armor at this time, I just had completed the refreshment training every power armor wear has to make and didn’t removed it when we landed on Shadow.

We all ran out of the town, into the direction of a river. Shortly after that the nuclear warheads detonated behind us, so we hit the deck. We later took cover in a abandon looking bunker and hid in there. 24h later we crawled back to the surface and could establish a commlink with a freighter that was in orbit and we got picked up.”

The story sounds incredible and but was certified by the Official USD Spokesperson: “We have a detailed report and we have several eyewitnesses that can certify the report and we should not forget the Data collected by the Power Armor inbuilt sensors.”

Still that raises some question: how can an Lt.Col. of an foreign power simply be take its leave on Shadow and take a stroll through the town wearing Power Armor? Was he really just with a friend, a civilian or is there more than meets the eye? And who are those eyewitnesses and what freighter picked them up after 24h?

One question could at least be answer, how the Colonel could survive the high radiation: “The PA-M45 Advanced power Armor type “Enclave” has full NBC protection for a period of at least 4 weeks if necessary” The Colonel said.

The United Systems Directorate (USD) is a unification of several star systems in the Aurora out arm, with a federal government style system which is located at Naruni Prime. The ruling bodies are the High Council and the Senate who compose the main ruling body for the separate sector administrations.

Having been neutral for a long time, this change of positions is quite a surprise and may relate in cold relations between the Alliance and the USD. At this time, the true power and potential of the USD is unknown and The Alliance has yet to react on this statement.

Head Minus Body Found on Splintered Rock

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 19:36:00 GMT

By Woodrow Wilson Smith
Cortex News Service

The edge of the Splintered Rock desert was graced today by a grisly sight. The head of Charles Thomas Flux a long time resident of the Rock was found on a pole just beyond the edge of the Tarmac. His body as yet has not been located. "We will get to the bottom of this attrocity, you mark my words," Constable Vooper was ademate in his resitation of what will happen to those involve in this devistating occurance.

As of this posting, no body has been found. Locals say that it is traditional to strip it of all water and feed the rest to the worms.

May what ever Gods he worshiped find peace for his soul.

Citizens Taken Into Custody?

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 18:36:00 GMT

CNS Staff Reports

Reports that Alliance citizens have been taken into custody and held without charge in the wake of the events of November 7 remain impossible to confirm, as government officials refuse to release the name, number or location of persons in "extraordinary detention".

Now a new source of confusion and anxiety surrounds the seizure of ships and crews in the exclusion zones declared during the operations against Caliban and Shadow. In the latter case in particular, large numbers of craft and people remain unaccounted for, including cases where witnesses confirm they had escaped the areas under attack.

A military source who declined to be identified for this report told CNS that "persons remaining in the exclusion zone after the beginning of the operation were designated as enemy combatants, and will be processed to determine whether they pose a continuing threat to the security of the Alliance." This source refused to state the nature of the process, or when anxious relatives and the public can expect to learn whether missing persons are in fact in custody and where.

Relatives of missing persons have petitioned military and government officials, but report receiving no assistance. In one case, a mother whose two small children were aboard a ship bound from Shadow to Persephone cannot determine their whereabouts, or those of the ship.

"I don't know what to believe," she told our reporter. "If the military has them, wode ma, why won't they tell me? And if not, tian shaode!"

Al Raqis Highport now Operational

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 18:33:00 GMT

By Vooper Werribee
Splintered Rock Ning

AL RAQIS - Originally a standard docking station, the Al Raqis magistrate was able to acquire this station as non-
operational salvage. When towed into orbit over Al Raqis on 12Nov, it hardly seemed worth the effort to
renovate it. However, looks were deceiving, and a small orbital construction crew began welding and
adapting the docking port into service, delivering a pressurized environment, complete redundant airlocks,
lighting, and beacon, in record time. The Highport began operational certification in limited service on
6Dec with the activation of the beacon. The Al Raqis Highport began full commercial service on 18Dec with
the arrival and clearance of the TTW Freighter "Christine".

Original Docking Station architect: Griffen Shinn
Renovation Crew Leader: Allen Kerensky

====================================================================
FACILITIES
====================================================================
* Jump Gate
* Automated beacon
* Landing areas
* Directional lighting
* Cargo Locks
* Cargo Bays
* Personnel airlocks
* Central lift
* Pressurized office space
* Shuttle docks
* Groundside Landing Fields

====================================================================
JUMP GATE
====================================================================
Al Raqis is proud to announce the start of construction on an intersystem Jump Gate at 100, 116, 4000.
All Intersystem-capable starships are requested to rez to those coordinates for all future jumps.
NOTE: Failure to jump to those coordinates may result in collision with Al Raqis orbital facilities, defenses, or future construction.

====================================================================
AUTOMATED BEACON
====================================================================
Al Raqis Highport offers an automated landing beacon on 14300 kHz.
This beacon announces itself periodically.
(( Channel 14300, Al Raqis Highport Automatic Beacon said, "this is automated highport beacon "al raqis" broadcasting on 14300khz. audio carrier available on http://splinteredradio.ipr365.com:10624" ))

To transmit to the beacon, use channel 14300 in local chat
/14300 request clearance
(( Channel 14300, Allen Kerensky said, "request clearance" ))
(( Channel 14300, Al Raqis Highport Automatic Beacon said, "transmit your starship and captains name, port of registry and departure, crew, passenger, and cargo manifests on this frequency." ))
/14300 Sierra II,Allen Kerensky,Kira's World, Kira's World, self, none, none

To receive the beacon's transmissions, you will need a radio receiver capable of tuning 14,300 kHz.
Public domain beacon receiver software: 𐀃
Simply drop this software patch into your ship's radio and your ship can receive standard ATC Beacons.
NOTE: This beacon receiver is experimental and not yet fully-rated for civilian ATC operations in this star system. During periods of peak flare activity, beacon operations may be disrupted.

To transmit civilian or commercial beacon information compatible with this automatic beacon system, ship owners can use the following software patch.
Public domain beacon transmission software: 𐀄
Simply drop this patch into your ship comm system, edit the patch, and fill out lines 8-14 with your starship data.
NOTE: This beacon transmitter is experimental and not yet fully-rated for civilian ATC operations in this star system. During periods of peak flare activity, beacon operations may be disrupted.

====================================================================
HIGHPORT LANDING AREAS
====================================================================
Each of the 4 landing areas on the highport can accomodate vessels up to 40x50m in size.
Each Landing area has its own dedicated cargo lock, cargo bay, and personnel lock.

Landing Area 1 - facing planetary north at 100, 156, 724.
Landing Area 2 - facing planetary east at 140, 100, 724.
Landing Area 3 - facing planetary south 100, 76, 724.
Landing Area 4 - facing planetary west 60, 116, 724.

NOTE: Due to the variance of shipside operating systems and designs, Al Raqis Highport does not offer automated landing and docking systems.
Manual landing and liftoffs only!
Station collisions will incur hefty fines or revocation of docking privileges.

====================================================================
DIRECTIONAL LIGHTING
====================================================================
The Al Raqis Highport uses standard directional lighting.
Landing areas are marked with green target lights and red warning borders to help direct pilots.
Flashing red anti-collision markers denote hazard areas for spacecraft to avoid such as antenna complexes.

====================================================================
CARGO LOCKS
====================================================================
Standard cargo locks are provided for each field to allow efficient loading and unloading operations.
To operate a cargo lock, simply touch the door control.
The bay door will open, simultanously crosslocking the matching door if necessary.
Red/green airlock pressure indicators are provided around all airlock borders.

====================================================================
CARGO BAYS
====================================================================
Each landing area has a pressurizable cargo bay for the convenience of orbit-to-ground and ground-to-orbit cargo operations.

NOTE: Al Raqis Highport does not have pressurized loading and unloading capabilities, or SCAM-class loaders.
All cargos transferred through the highport should be vaccuum-rated or packed appropriately.
The design of the highport does eliminate long vaccuum exposure times, but cross-vaccuum cargo operations should be assumed for all transfers.

====================================================================
PERSONNEL LOCKS
====================================================================
For the convenice of starship crews, separate personnel airlocks are provided from each landing area to the main level concourse.
This allows starship crews convenient access without requiring multiple cargo airlock operations, and excessive vaccuum exposure for cargo stored in the bays.
NOTE: Al Raqis Highport does not offer pressurized boarding facilities due to the wide variance of starship entryway design.
All crew operations require vacc-rated suits and experience.

To operate a personnel lock, simply touch the door control.
The door will open, simultanously crosslocking the matching door if necessary.
Red/green airlock pressure indicators are provided around all airlock borders.

====================================================================
CENTRAL LIFT
====================================================================
Each floor of the highport has a control to call the lift from other floors.
The lift itself has a simple control box with a button for each level.

NOTE: For your safety, do not enter the circular-bordered areas around each lift when the lift is not present.
Highport gravity remains in effect, and you will fall.
You may also be crushed under the lift if you are not careful.

====================================================================
HIGHPORT OFFICES (LEVEL 1)
====================================================================
Level 1 offers 4 offices and a small central area.
Each office overlooks a separate landing area.
Short and long-terms Highport office rentals are available through the Chief Magistrate's office, Al Raqis Downport.

====================================================================
MAIN CONCOURSE (LEVEL 2)
====================================================================
Level 2 is the main concourse, allowing access between all four landing areas cargo and personnel locks as well as a central lift to move between levels.
For the convenience of station visitors, pressure, heat, light, and gravity are all provided free of charge.

NOTE: Due to the large number of locks and small volume of habitat, a lock accident could depressurize the entire highport very quickly.
Although a shirt-sleeve environment is offered, all visitors are cautioned to keep a vacc-suit readily available at all times.

NOTE: The station reactors are located below the main concourse and are off-limits to all visitors.
Authorized highport personnel only.

====================================================================
SHUTTLE DOCKS (LEVEL 3)
====================================================================
Al Raqis Highport offers two (2) groundside shuttle locks on its lowest level.

Shuttle Dock 1 (Airlock 5): facing planetary east at 115, 116, 701.
Shuttle Dock 2 (Airlock 6): facing planetary west at 85, 116, 701.

To operate a shuttle lock, simply touch the door control.
The shuttle lock will open, simultanously crosslocking the matching door if necessary.
Red/green airlock pressure indicators are provided around all airlock borders.

NOTE: Regular ground-to-orbit and orbit-to-ground personnel or cargo shuttle service is not available at this time.
You will have to make your own arrangements with a groundside shuttle operator if your ship is not equipped with its own shuttles.

NOTE: Due to the variance of shuttle designs, Al Raqis Highport does not offer automated shuttle docking systems.
Manual anchorage only!
Station collisions will incur hefty fines or revocation of docking privileges.

NOTE: Al Raqis Highport does not offer pressurized shuttle boarding facilities due to the wide variance of shuttle entryway design.
All shuttle operations require vacc-rated suits and experience.

====================================================================
DOWNPORT (GROUNDSIDE) LANDING AREAS
====================================================================
Al Raqis downport offers eight (8) short-term lease public landing areas for rough-landing-capable starships.
Other private landing facilities are available for longterm lease through arrangement with the Chief Magistrate's office.

Landing field 1 at coordinates 76, 138, 68.
Landing field 1A at coordinates 101, 161, 68.
Landing field 2 at coordinates 127, 140, 68.
Landing field 3 at coordinates 148, 115, 68.
Landing field 4 at coordinates 126, 90, 68.
Landing field 5 at coordinates 102, 69, 68.
Landing field 6 at coordinates 77, 206, 57.
Landing field 7 at coordinates 79, 91, 68.

====================================================================
ROLEPLAY NOTES AND IDEAS
====================================================================
All of the above information is pointless unless you can use this thing for roleplaying.
So, here are some ideas how to use this as a roleplay setting and plot device:

* When you go above 300m, set your SL Viewer to "Midnight" to see a starry sky representing space.
Open the viewer's "World" menu, xchoose "Environment Settings" then choose "Midnight"

* ROLE OPPORTUNITY: Shuttle Pilots: move cargo and people from orbit to ground and back
* ROLE OPPORTUNITY: Dock Rat: inspect, load, or unload cargo for groundside or outsystem shipment
* ROLE OPPORTUNITY: Outsystem Trader: meet groundside brokers from Al Raqis here
* ROLE OPPORTUNITY: Groundside Broker: conduct trade with outsystem traders on behalf of groundside factions
* ROLE OPPORTUNITY: Groundside Prospector: sell (or smuggle) spice, water, and other groundside resources
* ROLE OPPORTUNITY: In-System Prospector: sell their asteroid resources here, refurbish your ship

====================================================================
FEEDBACK AND IDEAS WANTED
====================================================================
Send your ideas for other Al Raqis roles, or how to use various Al Raqis setting locations for roleplay to:
Joan Vhargon and Allen Kerensky

Tri-V Co-Owner Talks About Escape from Shadow

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 00:45:00 GMT

By Woodrow Wilson Smith

There are many Stories from the recent events leading up to and after the destruction of Shadow Moon and Caliban. This Reporter has recently tracked down one such Story. One that shows the depth of the recent events on the local populations.

Valiant Vuckovic, the Tri V Corporate Representative to this sector recently gave us an interview and the culmunation of what happened during the attack.

"The Lady of Opportunity was docked at port 3 of Serenity Station, where the Entertainment facilities aboard were being used by Station personel and those passing through the station. Fortunately my Chief Engineer and I were aboard when the Station was hit..." he pauses looking thoughtful.

"How did you manage to save the ship?"

"Oh, my Chief Engineer was at the entry just as the station was hit, barely getting aboard before the blast. She managed to release the docking clamps just as the ship was thrown clear. We were damaged severly along the port side, and it took a few moments to get the port engine working sufficiently enough to be of any use to the colonist."

"It's said you actually flew over the Colony during the bombardment."

"Yes, several times actually but we weren't the only ship doing that. As soon as it was possible we began shuttling survivors aboard the ship. Don't mind telling you was havin a bitch of a time keepin the engines aligned well enough to stay in the air. Lady was never a great atmosphere puncher, she carries a lot of weight..."

"Yes, a gallant ship, but what of the survivors?"

"Oh yeah, well one was your own Editor Tillery Woodhen. He got shot up pretty bad on the surface. Fortunately the Lady had a well stocked medical bay, and thanks to a quick thinnkin Med he was pulled through."

"You had a medic aboard?"

"No, one of the survivors had Medical training, don't mind tellin you it was a close call for him. We made the survivors as comfortable as possible and headed for the black, before patrols from Alliance began to stop any ships in the area."

"They were actually doing that?"

"Heck I don't know, wasn't gonna hang around to ask neither. Figured for Maclaren's then thought it would already be stuffed with survivors bein it was closest, and most Alliance would be blockaden that route. So turned to an alternate. and took the long route around to Hales."

"That's quite a distance, but you made that run in record time."

"Well theres a window when the Suns are in Orbit where you can cut the time in half..." he paused again, frowning slightly, " I just know a few short cuts and was lucky, thats all."

It was obvious to this reporter, that Mr. Vuckovic was worried about giving away some Corporate information, so this reporter didnt press the issue." And you arrived safely at Hales? I have heard that Alliance started an inquiry into your aid for the colonist, after the attack at Shadow?"

"We arrived alright and left the colonist there, the Lady was badly damaged, so we headed for a repair facility; and yeah, they did pose a few questions as to what the Lady did during the attack. Never had facilities on the surface of Shadow though. We worked out of Serenity Station, which was managed by Alliance so they let it stand. Given aid to others is still not illegal in Alliance jurisdiction."

"Has this incident damaged your standing as a legal carrier in Alliance Space?"

"Well there was some doubts, but they didnt pull our contracts. It has severly curtailed a lot of travel though, not to mention pissin a few Colonist off. Tri V stands behind her contracts though and still does business where the business is needed."

"Yes I've heard you have opened a new facility in Properity."

"Aye, the Shuttle Stop Cafe and General Store. Even got a small Laundry and Community Bath house. There is even a Meditation area for a Companion to come once a week for classes and such. Should help Prosperity grow and aid the refugees from Shadow. Tri V is there for the populace. We are here to help."

This Reporter ended the session knowing the Tri V Corporation was still an active participant in the lives of the Colonist and a continued trader throughout the Verse. The recent actions from both sides cause grief and pain, but the stalwart Colonist and Alliance personel continue to work for the good of all.

Shindig in MacLaren's Drift

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:59:00 GMT

By Anastasia Horngold

Monday night Shindig at the Opera House! 6 pm SLT. Join the upstanding citizens of MacLaren's at the Wh...Opera House for an evening of fun. Opera House management says purchase not required [wink]. Christmas attire optional--the theme is "Red."

Hale's Christmas Walk Now Open

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 02:58:00 GMT

All citizens of the 'Verse are invited to walk through the BlueSun Corporate Grounds, and enjoy the Christmas Walk put on by BlueSun employees.

The Christmas Walk is an extravaganza you won't want to miss.

The Walk begins at the Gates of BlueSun, and goes throughout the property, culminating in a visit to Santa's Workshop.

Along the way, take time to enjoy the romantic pavillion by following "Snowflake Lane" to the scenic overlook. Or, spend some time in front of BlueSun Headquarters, where you can enjoy refreshments.

The path along "Toytown" is full of exciting new displays, and the ice rink has been specially decorated just for the Christmas Walk. Free skates available, as well as hot cocoa. Have a snowball fight. Snow has been created using shaved ice and the balls are by the toy soldiers.

Wander around, or rest under the Smiling Santa archway and watch the skaters.

Stop and rest, have some BlueSun Cocoa, and continue on, following the candlelit path to "Nativity", our display located appropriately in the BlueSun Stables.

Next, prepare for a visit to Santa's Workshop, where you may find him working - or he may be at one of our other facilities. Inside the workshop are gifts for you and your family.

The playground, dog park, pool and spa are open. However due to recent issues with crime, we ask that no children be left unattended. These areas are not part of the Christmas Walk.

Transportation to the Gates of BlueSun is provided inside Santa's Workshop.

The Walk runs now through January 15th, and is provided free of charge.

Convicts Escape, Planets Devastated

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 02:53:00 GMT

SHADOW - Tensions over the conviction of Mikie Rhiadra and Sentry Swashbuckler erupted into open war yesterday.

The two were scheduled to be executed for detonating a nuclear weapon on Londinium, destroying the city of Aberdeen. But in a daring rescue, a team of browncoats took the two away from the Traflagar Space Station where they were due to be executed.

Elements of the UAP military reacted quickly, starting a systemwide search for the alleged criminals. In the process, two moons, MacLaren's Drift and Shadow were attacked by overwhelming force.

Shadow, where Mikie and Sentry had been hiding, got by far the worst of the attack. The town center of Shadow has been completely destroyed, along with Serenity Station in orbit. The CNS was able to get photos of the devastating attack before its shuttle was destroyed by debris from the space station and shots fired from what is believed to be a UAP fighter.

As of press time, there is no word on how many people were injured or killed in the attack. Civilian ships were able to evacuate some people after the attack, with injured scattering across the Rim. Most casualties went to MacLaren's Drift with a couple of ships making desperate runs to Hale's Moon.

Shadow's Town Center is completely destroyed. The Jade Saloon and radio building were destroyed before communications were lost. Eyewitness reports state that no building remains standing on the planet.

There has been no word on who authorized the attack or why such an action was needed to recapture two fugitives. The UAP press office denied any knowledge of the attack or who ordered it.

The attack has raised tensions across the sector, igniting fears of a new war along the lines of the Unification War which devastated so many worlds years ago.

Verdict for Trial of Londinium Terrorist Bombers

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 02:55:00 GMT

==============Londinum Government Press Release==============

LONDINIUM - The Trial of the Londinium Terrorist Bombers Mikie Rhiandra and Sentry Swashbuckler continued late this afternoon after Alliance Federal Judge Thadius Wirefly spent the day carefully debating their fate.

New security precautions of holographically transmitting the proceedings live to a remote audience went as planned so there would be no disruptions in the court upon the announcement of the verdict.

Defendants Rhiandra and Swashbuckler sat with their Defense Attorney Rodderick Xue huddled in conversation as Judge Wirefly entered the courtroom. All stood as he proceeded to the bench and then sat as he did.

The courtroom went silent for several minutes waiting for Judge Wirefly to speak as he reviewed documents in front of him before looking up at the courtroom and asked for the Defendants to stand.

    "In thinking long and hard on this case, it has touched such a nerve here and abroad to other planets that requires a compassionate and just conclusion. The rule of law itself would be ill-served by this court failing to observe the high standards of criminal justice and the burden of proof which prevail in courts. Such compelling evidence outlined in this trial had no discrepancies this court's opinion and I must conclude that anyone competent enough to know the basics of right and wrong would know the decision that must be reached.
    Mikie Rhiandra and Sentry Swashbuckler, for the crime of unauthorized trafficking and distribution of Military equipment and firearms, I find you Guilty.
    For the crime of willful destruction of Government and Public property, I find you Guilty.
    For the crime of illegal possession and use of a Massive Incendiary Device;I.E. a Nuclear Bomb, I find you Guilty.
    For the crime of conspiracy to overthrow the Alliance Government, I find you Guilty.
    Finally, for the crime of the willful murder of 500,000 innocent people, I find you GUILTY."

The court attendees began talking in hushed tones but their words and noise could not be heard by the actual court as people got up to leave the courtroom to spread the news. Rhiandra looked on in a daze and Swashbuckler looked crushed each time the word GUILTY was said and their attorney whispered to them as Swashbuckler solemnly nodded.

Judge Wirefly then looked gravely at the defendants deepening his voice.

"In all my years of serving on this bench I have never thought it possible for anyone outside of time of war to so callously and soullessly consider let alone follow through with the murder of so many innocent people. I am so convinced of your guilt and in the accuracy of the prosecution evidence that I have absolutely no doubt...no doubt period. Therefore in the interest of serving justice and this court I sentence both of you, Sentry Swashbuckler and Mikie Rhiandra to death by execution, to be carried out tomorrow until you both are dead...dead...DEAD!"

Their Defense Attorney Xue immediately objected to sentencing and execution being carried out before he can appeal their case. Judge Wirefly banged his gavel and replied loudly that Xue was out of order and Xue responded even louder saying "With all due respect Sir, it is YOU that is out of order."
Judge Wirefly angrily yelled that Xue was in contempt of court and order Bailiffs to arrested and incarcerated Xue and to take all three prisoners to be detained immediately.

Swashbuckler then leaped across the table and began moving towards the Judge, but an Alliance Officer intercepted him knocking him to the floor and holding him to the ground with his boot to Swashbucklers throat.

The holographic feed then was shut down and Court Bailiffs order the attending visitors to leave the courtroom.

<END TRANSMISSION>
=============================================================

Terrorism Trial Begins in Londinium

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 04:45:00 GMT

LONDINIUM - Alliance Federal Prosecutor Zoey Luminos began the trial by calling the Prosecutions first witness Alliance Colonel Mojo Halberd, Special Investigations Officer assigned to the investigation of the terrorist attack on Londinium. Colonel Halberd went into detail relaying that their investigation began when a man by the name of Lorenzo Tybee was discovered at a Medical facility several hundred kilometers away from the attack site that had sever radiation exposure but was no where near the attack. His exposure was fatal and only had a matter of hours to live. Being a prime suspect in the attack he was interrogated and a deposition was taken before his death.

He said that he was hired by Mikie Rhiandra to build a nuclear device and would provide the parts as they were smuggled in one by one. He provided dates and locations of where they had met. The location he did his work at was a small warehouse in the district of Dorchester about 200 miles north of Aberdeen. The site was raided but nobody was there. The warehouse had been leased out in the name of Cobb Compton, a former Husband of Mikie Rhiandra, and a small shuttle was found inside registered to Sentry Swashbuckler. Researching the local street security camaras discovered photage of Mikie Rhiadra meeting with the bomb builder Tybee. Forensic evidence collected at the site found DNA matches that are on file for Lorenzo Tybee, Cobb Compton, Sentry Swashbuckler, and Mikie Rhiandra.

Evidence presented in Londinium placing Mikie Rhiadra at the time of the bombing.

When Colonel Halberd displayed photage of the suspect Mikie Rhiandra on a sidewalk in front of a warehouse with the bomb builder Tybee, Rhiandra screamed in court it was a lie. Judge Wirefly ordered her removed from the court until she could behave and show respect. The trial continued as Colonel Halberd went thru the forensic evidence collected along with radioactive material residue and radiation level readings that had forced them to seal off and condemn the warehouse as a hazardous danger to the local residents and is currently being dismantled and the site cleaned by the Alliance Environmental Protection Division.

Defense Lawyer Rodderick Xue objcted immediately and asked the court to cease and desist any dismantling and destruction of the site until he can have a proper investigation of the site to verify Colonel Halberd's findings but Judge Wirefly lisened as Prosecuter Zoey Luminos advised that Colonel Halberd's investigation unit is the top Alliance investigation unit in the Core Worlds with a spotless record and to suggest that their work is flawed was a delay tactic by defense to waste the court's time. Judge Wirefly agreed and denied Xue's objection.

Colonel Halberd then advised that capture the subjects had become a TOP priority from high up in the Government as public outcry not only came from Londinium but across the Core Worlds to bring the responsible parties to justice. Intelligence was collected and an elaborate sting operation was initiated to capture the Suspects which resulted in their capture and arrest. Prosecution had no further questions and Xue began cross examination of Colonel Halberd asking to elaborate on the 'Sting Operation' he mentioned to arrest the Suspects. Colonel Halberd advised that he cannot provide details as that information is classified. Xue objected to Judge Wirefly arguing that he needs to know if the Defendants rights were violated in their capture and asked to order Colonel Wirefly to provide this information. Judge Wirefly denied the objection stating that details of the Suspects capture was unneccessary in this trial. Xue then requested a for court to adjoirn for several days so that he could review the evidence that Colonel presented but again Judge Wirefly denied the motion stating the evidence appeared fairly clear and evident of what it implied and needed no further scrutiny. Exhasperated, Xue advised he had no further questions for this witness but researved the right to recall him if needed. Judge Xue granted this and excused the witness.

A short recess was called and upon returning to the trial, Mikie Rhiandra was back in te security cell with Swashbuckler but she appeared distant and dispondent as the trial continued. Swashbuckler was called to the stand and was asked by Prosecutor Luminos why he and Rhiandra had done this terrorist act on the innocent people of Londinium but he immediately denied he had a part in the attack. Luminos went through all the evidence implicating Swashbuckler but he continued denying he had any part. When cross examined by Xue he asked where Swashbuckler was during the attack and he advised on the moon Shadow. When asked if he had any proof he could provide he was there he was unable to. Swashbuckler was dismissed and Mikie Rhiandra was called to the stand. When questioned by Prosecution about her part in the attack she mumbled in a daze "No...I didn'...it wasn't me..." When confronted with the evidence in a torrent of questions at her asking how she didnt do it when they have the evidence she did it, Rhiandra replied confusingly, "..but...I....I dont know...maybe..." Xue cross examined Rhiandra he became more and more distant on the stand but continued to imply she did not do it.

Prosecution then rested and when Defense was asked if they had any witnesses, Xue frustratingly again asked for a continuance so that he may work to review the evidence but was again denied by Judge Wirefly. Xue then advised he had no witnesses and had no choice but to rest his case. Judge Wirefly said that he would review this case over night and would render his verdict tomorrow in court. Judge Wirefly also advised that due to the security risks and death threats they have received against the Suspects, he was forced to make these proceedings a closed session, but at the same time there is EXTREME public interest in this trial. He advised that he will open the court proceedings tomorrow to the public BUT that they will be using a holographic live transmissions for the viewing courtroom attendants. They will experience the court proceedings as if there but the trial will be in one courtroom and they will be watching from another unable to interrupt the proceedings. Security is of prime concern and he does not want any stunts and advised the only compromise he is willing to provide. Judg Wirefly then adjoirned the trial until tomorrow.

Zenobia Eases Travel Restrictions

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 04:42:00 GMT

ZENOBIA - Travel restrictions have been relaxed to and from locations in the Caberfae and Pleione provinces. Priority will be granted to Alliance Personnel, Trade Delegates, Research Contractors, and Medical Staff. Entry and exit visa requirements will now go into effect for non-essential travel.

The Arraignment of the BROWNCOAT RESISTANCE Terrorist Leaders

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 04:00:00 GMT

==============Londinum Government Press Release==============

LONDINIUM - Alliance Federal Prosecutor Zoey Luminos announced in court Wednesday that she will seek the death penalty for the leaders of the Browncoat Resistance Terrorist Group, Mikie Rhiadra and Sentry Swashbuckler, who is charged with Five Hundred Thousand counts of first-degree murder, Conspiracy to overthrow the Alliance Government, Illegal possession and use of a Massive Incediary Device (Nuclear Bomb), Willful destruction of Government and Public property, and the unauthorized trafficing and distribution of Military equipment and firearms.

Appearing before Judge Thadius Wirefly, Defense Attorney Roddrick Xue's request for bail was denied laughingly as Judge Wirefly called Mikie Rhiandra and Sentry Swashbuckler a danger to the community at large and an exceptional flight risk, especially considering the extraordinary crimes they are accused of and their past records.

Roddrick Xue did not argue against this but instead, he reserved the right to request bail if evidence and circumstances during the trial warranted new consideration of the seriousness of the charges against his Clients.

When asked as they appeared before Judge Wirefly if they understood the charges against them, Swashbuckler reluctantly replied 'Yes,' but Ms. Rhiandra simply growled at the Judge. Excitement then occured as she turned to perhaps run out of the courtroom, but was quickly stopped and subdued in the Courtroom in front of the Judge. Judge Wirefly angrily advised her Attorney Xue that any attempts to distrupt or disrespect his Courtroom would be met with unrestrained retaliation and he best advise his Clients on their behavior. Xue apologized to the court and entered in a Not Guilty plea for Rhiadra and Swashbuckler.

Judge Wirefly advised that Londinium provides the right to and for a speedy trial and that their trial will begin tomorrow morning. Xue argued that he did not have time to mount a reasonable defense and requested a Two week extension before the trial begins but Judge Wirefly denied his motion and advised the Trial begins tomorrow morning and will be closed to the public and only selected Press Representatives will be granted access.

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Londinium Announce Trial of Mikie, Sentry

tillery-pub@comcast.net (Tillery Woodhen) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 03:07:00 GMT

========Londinium Government Press Release======================
The Leaders of the terrorist organization THE BROWNCOAT RESISITANCE, Mikie Rhiadra
and Sentry Swashbuckler have been captured and arrested for crimes against the
people of the Core Worlds as well as the murder of over 500,000 innocent people in
the Nuclear Bomb attack on the City of Aberdeen on Londinium.

An Arraignment hearing is scheduled for tomorrow and the case is being escalated to
process their trial immediately.

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