Intergalactic Summit

Odenjorn withdraws petition in Minmatar Discrimination case
Originally reported by ISD Marela Nadirones

Parts – Less than a week after the FederationSupreme Court calendared a rehearing for the controversial Odenjorn vs. Center for Advanced Studies case, the plaintiff has asked the Court to dismiss her petition.

In the statement submitted to the Court, Ms. Odenjorn wrote, "The battle to achieve reasonable rights has left me drained and tired. That the Federation doesn't understand the intricacies of the Minmatar and our tribes is becoming plainly evident. I've already gone through this fight once and I have no desire to go through it again."

Andrur Hlaegil, Senior Minority Affairs Officer at CAS, denies having reached a settlement with Ms. Odenjorn. "One was never discussed. We presented our facts to the Court, Ms. Odenjorn presented her persecution fantasies, and like everyone in the media and the Senate, we have been simply waiting for a decision." When asked for his assessment of the oral arguments, Dr. Hlaegil replied, "All I can say until the recordings are released is that they went well for CAS. I am confident that we would have won this dispute even if it had gone through the rehearing."

The rehearing was slated to take place on the first day of the next judicial calendar year, hours before oral arguments will be heard in Nos Agri vs. Silfskar Hydroponics.

"I'm disappointed, but not discouraged," said Chana Etanur, legal counsel for Nos Agri, a labor union that represents approximately nine million agricultural workers in space stations and asteroid mining outposts throughout Verge Vendor. "If the Court had ruled for Ms. Odenjorn, the precedent would have certainly strengthened our argument that even though our Minmatar ancestors were all born beneath the same star, we are as fundamentally different as Gallente, Deteis and Civire. The Federation's continuing to insist otherwise is not being enlightened, it is remaining oblivious to the reality that there are those who will use the rule of law to exploit their fellow citizens."

Nos Agri is suing Silfskar, one of the corporations employing its union members, for what it is calling 'a pattern of prejudicial termination of workers of Starkmanir and Thukker descent'. Silfskar, a Vherokoir-owned enterprise, has denied this claim, stating that since all of their employees are Minmatar, racial prejudice cannot be considered as having played a role in the terminations. Silfskar won its argument in district court, and the appellate deadlocked on Nos Agri's appeal.

Holders Demand Answers from Kor-Azor Leadership
Kor-Azor Prime - Continued lack of communication from the Kor-Azor Family on the matter of the theological think-tanks has caused hundreds of prominent holders to assemble on Kor-Azor Prime to have their grievances heard by their Heir. However, house representatives say that Aritcio Kor-Azor's duty as Imperial Chancellor is keeping him away from his homeworld.

"My grandson and thousands of commoners under my holdership have joined the Imperial Navy and died in the war as a direct result of the house's conscription policies," said holder Rakban Vennegh. "The policies that caused this can be traced directly to advice from these secretive cabals."

"Our lands are stricken by famine because the house would rather fund battleships than food production," commented a representative from the Keraci family - vassals of Kor-Azor.

Alder Brenean, aide to Aritcio Kor-Azor, spoke to the assembled holders in the royal court at Kor-Azor Prime briefly today, explaining that the heir would hear their grievances upon his return from Dam-Torsad. "The Imperial Chancellor is working diligently to carry out the desires of our divine EmpressJamyl. We are at war, and his attention is precious wherever he turns, but rest assured that he will see each of you in turn and hear your complaints, and that your wishes shall be taken into account."

Vherokior Utility corporations invest in Akimamur constellation
Originally reported by ISD Marela Nadirones
Aralgrund – Earlier today, BrightEngine and Potable Logic announced the launch of Phase One of Akimamur Unified, their project to standardize access to electricity, clean drinking water, and public sanitation for planetary residents of Heimatar's Akimamur constellation.

"This project has the potential to improve the quality of life for millions of Republic citizens," said Berit Niahgrun, CEO of BrightEngine. "We are proud to be a part of it, and honored that Akimamur's caretakers are trusting us with this responsibility."

Akimamur Unified is the first joint project to be undertaken by BrightEngine and Potable Logic, and the first one either has conducted at a constellation-wide level. The approval process, which involved Brutor tribe representatives as well as every local clan leader in Akimamur, took five years of negotiation.

Kenem Esvuli, CEO of Potable Logic, admitted "It was a unique experience. A large number of local stakeholders have never worked with offworlders before, even with those from worlds in their own systems. It was tense at times, yes, but ultimately rewarding."

In YC114, the Angel Cartel conducted a large-scale planetary attack in the Bogelek system, home to two of the planets enrolled in Akimamur Unified. When asked what impact the raid had on project plans, Esvuli said, "Oh, it set back our negotiations several unhappy months, that's for sure."

"But you have to understand," he added. "That raid wasn't an everyday event. Everyday events we can handle. Yes, this constellation has some security challenges. However, despite these challenges, Akimamur has been able to attract some solid spaceside mercantile interest. Freedom Extension, the Leisure Group, and Aliastra have all invested heavily in these systems. Why would we want to invest our efforts in ensuring that all of Akimamur's planetsiders have the same access to basic utilities as the constellation's station dwellers? Why would we not? There is nothing but potential here. With a stable, modernized planetary utility infrastructure, this constellation could really flourish."

BrightEngine is wholly owned by the Vherokior tribe's Shardald clan, while Potable Logic is a joint venture of families from the Esvuli and Ibruko clans. These investments are being made by the individual corporations, rather than the tribe. The cost allocation to utility customers will be determined at a later date.

Ardishapur educational reforms showing initial strong results
Youl - With the educational reforms spearheaded by Yonis Ardishapur firmly implemented in his family domains, the overall reaction from educators and students has been highly positive. While the standards have only been in place a short time, improvements have been noted by several groups. The other royal Houses, and the Imperial court, have all been watching closely.

One teacher, when asked about the changes, heaped effusive praise on them. "The old standards were sorely lacking. They did little to challenge students and, instead, fostered an air of minimal effort and doing just enough to get by. The new curriculum, on the other hand, forces students to engage their minds and think deeply on Scripture and service. Some of the responses to portions of the lesson plans have been profoundly interesting, something I can't say I remember in my decades of teaching."

He went on to say, "It's naturally been a challenge for some students, especially those who are nearing the end of their education. They're so used to the old ways - and much of the rubbish in there was little more than antiquated notions that haven't been changed since before the rise of capsuleers flipped so much on its head - that adjusting to the new standards have been difficult. However, I've been very surprised by some. Those who seemed the least interested in being there, now that they're faced with things of genuine use and importance, have seemingly woken up. It's been like night and day."

A group of students expressed similar opinions. "The material is much more in depth," said one, a Khanid student from an upper class common family. "The older work was simply more of the same thing I've been learning since I was a child. This is something new."

A fellow student, a low-class Ni-Kunni woman, concurred. "Before, I was learning the rote methods of how things were done. The new curriculum actually makes me have to stop and think sometimes. I'm actually listening to the instructor instead of doodling on my datapad, waiting for the lecture to end."

When asked what the most important change was, she quickly answered, "Accountability. For both the student and the teacher. I've had some awful teachers before, who were less interested in teaching and more interested in collecting tenure. I don't think they'll survive long under this new plan."

According to reports from the Imperial court, EmpressJamyl I is apparently "ecstatic" about the early results and is looking forward to having the reforms implemented Empire-wide.

The next round of civil service exams in the Empire are upcoming and the Amarr Civil Service has already reported a 5% increase in applicants over previous years.

Empress Demands Removal of “Foreign” Elements from Celebrations
Originally reported by ISD Archetys Traum
Kador Prime – Despite the pressure of security demands resulting from the rampant celebrations taking place across Kador Family holdings, Empress Jamyl I has demanded that the Kador Family terminate its contract with the Caldari-based Storm Wind Strike Force mercenary corporation. The corporation has been providing a large amount of security for large cities, such as those on Aphend IV and Hikansog.

Though she has made no public statement on the matter, the Empress supposedly informed the Kador Family that “nonbelievers should not be permitted to partake in our joyous celebrations” and “no Amarr would debase himself by listening to a foreigner who attempted to halt his holy revelry.” The Kador Family reportedly balked initially at the demands, as the Caldari mercenaries have proven highly effective in containing violence, while there have been reports of Amarr security forces joining in on the festivities in some locales.

Additionally, the contract signed between the Kador Family and Storm Wind Strike Force contains a harsh termination clause which supposedly will cost the Kador Family a large amount of ISK to exercise. Though the Family has petitioned the Empress for compensation, the request has apparently been refused, though she has apparently suggested the Family hire a detachment of her Imperial Guard as a replacement.

The timing of the Empress's request has come at a time of rising tensions between the Imperial Throne and Caldari leadership. The representatives of several Caldari corporations have privately expressed dismay at the Empress's ejection of the Caldari mercenaries, which they found to be a needlessly tactless affront to the long-standing good relations of the two empires.

Aritcio Kor-Azor pledges transparent government, releases full documentation of theological think-tanks
Originally reported by ISD Sheliak Mesarthim
Kor-Azor Prime - After hearing and addressing the complaints of the many nobles who protested after the revelation of the Kor-Azor Family's secretive religious advisory groups, Aritcio Kor-Azor today made a statement to all citizens of his domain.

"I wish to issue the most sincere apology to all of you. The past five years I have done everything in my power to see that you - my people - and the people of the whole Empire can enjoy efficient and empathetic government. The fires of war will stain even the purest of hearts with soot, and fearing that the plights of the Empire would threaten the work I had done in the Kor-Azor domain these past few years, I sought guidance from the best spiritual guides I could find.

"My decision to incorporate them into the executive processes of the house may be regrettable in hindsight, but above all else the lack of transparency was the greatest mistake. I pray I have not lost what trust I have tried to rebuild between myself and my beloved vassals and friends, and that this apology and attempts at restitution will not be lost upon you."

Following the heir's statement, Ahan Hemirin pledged to release all documents pertaining to decisions advised by the think-tanks, as well as the identity of its members to the holders of the Kor-Azor domains. Invitations have also been extended to the investigators of the Theology Council and Emperor Family to scrutinize the Kor-Azor government first-hand.

While the holders involved in the protests were unwilling to comment on Kor-Azor's statement, several Kor-Azor Prime commoners expressed relief and satisfaction with their heir's approach.

Celebrations Throughout Kador Sullied by Violence
Originally reported by ISD Archetys Traum
Kador Prime - In the wake of the events that followed the Saikamon memorial service at Epitoth Cathedral, festivities continue throughout the territories of House Kador. While official events have ceased, celebrants do not show any sign of moving from the center of the capital despite attempts to attract them elsewhere and an increase in complaints.

One resident located near the ongoing commotion complained that “families left long ago. Only particular elements are still hanging around– the sort that need to be sent home.”

While Uriam Kador was unavailable for comment earlier this week, a representative made it clear that the heir was still keen for the celebrations to continue despite an increasing number of arrests in the city center, particularly for acts of violence.

“I’d draw your attention to the region as a whole. There is no reason that the happiness of a multitude should be ruined by the unfortunate excesses of a localized few. Regardless of isolated indiscretions, the entirety of Kador maintains a fervor that has rarely been seen, and many are keen to allow celebrations to continue.”

The official is referring to incidences such as the recent public mass that took place on Shaggoth VII. An eager assembly endured particularly cold weather to listen to preachers amidst an impressive collection of 1760 towering white candles in a market-square that had been cleared for the event. Before long, the flickering of the candles was accompanied by a fire as the air grew increasingly chill. The speeches, which spoke largely of offering what one could to God, then became more incensed as the fire slowly transformed into a pyre. People were soon bringing their belongings into the square to be thrown into the flames. When people started stripping off clothing to toss into the blaze, and coming from nearby houses with furniture, security was called in to calm the audience lest the roaring bonfire, and the crowd themselves, start threatening nearby property.

Uriam Kador’s representative could also be referring to a recent spirited re-enactment on Aphend IV of the penultimate battle that resulted in the conquering of Ves-Udor in 20185 AD. After a successful day attended by an enthusiastic crowd, one of the organizers made the ill-conceived suggestion that their next major re-enactment should be the first deployment of slave vessels during the Day of Darkness in 22480 AD. Minmatar emancipated by Jamyl’s historic decree that had settled in the region were enraged, and it was only the intercession of a large group of attendees, including capsuleers, that a large-scale brawl was prevented, despite some blows being exchanged.

He could also have been anticipating the man who today climbed to the top of the new statue in front of Epitoth Cathedral to speak to an assembled audience about the mortal lives that were being lost amidst the Empyrean War. After ranting about the collateral losses made as “immortals struggled endlessly across the heavens”, he announced that he too would lay down his life for them and leapt from the top of the Templar’s bowed head. Those gathered watched in horror as he dived headfirst into the paving 20 meters below, right in front of them. We contacted Uriam Kador’s representative again to check whether this was also one of the “isolated indiscretions” he had been referring to.

“There has been far more happiness than misery in the streets. While this incident was a regrettable tragedy, the true disappointment here is that media continues to attend only to death and discord. The people recognize that there are far better things to focus on, and so should you.”

Jamyl endorses display that led to four deaths
Originally reported by ISD Archetys Traum
Amarr Prime - Ongoing revelries in Kador have started to take a turn for the worse as incidences of violence, rioting and misfortune have begun to taint the festivities. Initially, much of the adulation throughout the sector remained positive, spurred on both by military fervor and the Amarr desire to demonstrate their devotion to God. According to law enforcement, however, the latter is "falling by the wayside as the temperance turns to excess."

Tales of public immolations are coming in from more than one planet in Asrios this week, and riots continue on Aphend IV, where tensions with emancipated Minmatar continue to boil over as locals celebrate historical victories, in particular the invasion of the Matari homeworld, bringing focus to prejudice simmering in the local community.

The Empire is still reeling in shock following the news of a man brutalized at a fete in Hikansog, where families, including children, were loudly encouraging each other as they kicked his prone form. While event organizers have lamented dressing the victim as the notorious Molok the Deceiver, they claimed they could not have predicted the vitrol the demonized figure would incite.

Fresh on this event’s heels, attention once again focused on the promenade in front of Epitoth Cathedral, where celebrations were opened, and where revelries have continued to set the tone for the entire region. Four deaths and a number of injuries followed an impromptu display where a woman dressed in imitation of the empress was driven up and down the streets, which were once again barricaded in an attempt to direct the crowds.

The woman stood on a platform at the rear of the vehicle, wearing one of the masks of the sefrim from a parade along the same expanse. The woman capped it off with a headdress identical to that that was being regularly worn by the empress following her coronation. She held a sword aloft, much as Jamyl I had used during her coronation. Long banners of black and gold streamed from her shoulders and middle as the vehicle accelerated. One witness claimed, "The whole sight would have been as divine as the empress herself were the masked woman’s breasts not bared."

It was this element that has not only generated the uproar that resulted, but apparently led to the misfortune that followed. As the driver turned at the far end of the promenade to race back towards Epitoth, incensed crowds swarmed over the barriers, some of them rushing in front of the vehicle, forcing it to stop. A number of others then jumped onto the back, reaching for the masked woman who later testified that they were shouting vulgarities as they grabbed at her, which is why she started swinging her weapon in defense. It was this point that a man took hold of the banners that had been streaming from around her neck and shoulders and pulled. The masked woman screamed as she fell backwards, causing the occupants of the vehicle to panic.

“We heard her scream and in the confusion feared the worst. This crowd - these men - were crazy. After she fell backwards we did the first thing that came to mind. We had to get away.”

Four were killed as the vehicle quickly accelerated backwards into the mob gathered at the rear of the vehicle, injuring several others. The man that had pulled the woman down, now standing over her, was then flung backwards off the vehicle as it changed direction and lurched forward, knocking aside another seven as the crowds struggled to part, allowing the drivers to make their frantic escape before they were intercepted by authorities.

With officials on Kador Prime remaining silent on whether they will put an end to the increasingly unruly crowds that still swarm along the promenade leading to Epitoth Cathedral, outraged citizens began contacting Emperor Family this week calling for Jamyl I herself to intercede. These calls were understood to have quadrupled in the hours subsequent to her double’s unsanctioned and ill-fated display.

It was these pleas for help that prompted an statement from the empress herself, reading, “Our passion takes us to extremes that push us beyond everyday boundaries. Your actions appeal to the divinity that blesses my station, and it is only fitting that you would emulate it. Reach for heaven, fervent children of God.”

With these words the empress has seemingly endorsed the increasingly chaotic celebrations that are taking place throughout Kador, which now look set to continue despite fatalities.

House Sarum “gearing up for next stage in Reclaiming”, aggressive warnings from Federation and Republic governments
Originally reported by ISD Vance Siterman
Luminaire - The FederationPresident and RepublicSanmatar have released a joint statement after having acquired intelligence that House Sarum is preparing itself to launch a new initiative in the Reclaiming, the Amarr term for the religious war of conquest which involves the taking of slaves from conquered populations.

According to the Federal Intelligence Office report, fleets of large slave barges and escort vessels are being launched from Upper Domain, while troop vessels are being filled with drop squads specialized in containment and crowd control training. These expeditionary forces have currently been deployed to Imperial military bases within the war zone and it is unclear when they will continue their intended journey to conquered planets.

Merimeth Sarum declared that his Royal House will “lead the way in acquiring new Minmatar subjects, to shine God’s holy light upon”. When asked by a Scope journalist native to Mekhios about whether or not the House’s actions was an escalation of the Empyrean War, Merimeth Sarum replied that “a true Reclaiming requires the might of the entire Empire, not just one House. However, it will be Sarum that will guide the other Houses into following our lead. Only then can we truly declare that the current Reclaiming is underway in its full glory”

The Federation and Republic governments have made no distinction between House Sarum and the rest of the Empire, however. Angry Gallente and Minmatar diplomats have engaged in shouting matches against their Amarr counterparts in the CONCORD Assembly session earlier this week, even though they remain diplomatically muted in their replies. Many assume this to be a reflection of EmpressJamyl’s stance on the matter, as all foreign diplomats answer directly to the Emperor Family.

“Attempting to violate the inalienable sovereignty of our Minmatar cousins is insufferable, and there can be no guarantees that the sons and daughters of Amarr won't be the victim of strong and unrestrained retributions when our Republic ally launches its eventual counterattack”, said President Roden, with silent acknowledgement from Sanmatar Shakor.

Members of House Sarum have dismissed the Gallente and Minmatar responses as “impotent wailings”.

Ardishapur curriculum resounding success, other Houses begin implementation; Imperial court silent
Amarr - "The results are outstanding," said Amarr Civil Service representative Cankhima Azhgabid following the completion of the latest round of civil service exams in the Empire. "Scores are up across the board from recruits within the Ardishapur domain. Even though the curriculum and new standards were only recently implemented, and this is only a single round of tests, we've not had such results in decades. These latest recruits have proven the efficacy of Lord Ardishapur's changes. "

This firm data, coupled with the extremely positive anecdotal reactions from faculty and students exposed to the new curriculum, has already set off a wave throughout the other Houses. The Tash-Murkon Family was the first of the houses to implement the changes, though too late to have an impact on this round of testing. The other families have similarly since announced they will begin implementing the reforms, with Ardishapur chief educational chancellor Derak Tanar working closely with the other family education officials to see things through.

Following their widespread adoption by the houses, officials from the Imperial court have given the new doctrine tentative approval. In a statement, officials said, "Given the opinions of the Heirs on the matter, it is obvious that these reforms will become the standard for the Empire. By acting in concert, we can ensure that they are implemented in all areas of the Empire, even those not administered by the Heirs, to keep any from falling behind."

However, EmpressJamyl I has been notably silent on the new reforms and has not given any official approval over them. While previous rumors claimed the Empress was highly in favor of Ardishapur's reforms, recent reports have been conflicting. Some claim the Empress is "highly concerned" with significant portions of the curriculum, while others say she is merely days away from putting her personal stamp of approval on them, with a few even contending the Empress would step in and revoke the standards in favor of another, court-developed plan.