03 SEP 3302
The leaders of the galaxy's major powers have responded to the discovery of a mysterious shipwreck in the Pleiades Sector AB-W B2-4 system.
Speaking from the Imperial Palace on Capitol, Emperor Arissa Lavigny-Duval said:
"This is a potentially momentous discovery that could signify the dawn of a new era. I speak for all Imperial citizens when I say that the Empire faces this new era with optimism."
Meanwhile, Federal President Zachary Hudson released a statement from his office at the White House on Mars:
"Like many of you, I have watched this story unfold with mounting astonishment. I want to assure all Federal citizens – and, indeed, all members of the galactic community – that the Federation is ready for whatever lies ahead."
Alliance Prime Minister Edmund Mahon struck a more measured tone in his statement:
"The discovery is unquestionably a remarkable one, but at this stage it would be irresponsible to speculate on its implications. I will say only that, at this point in time, the need for solidarity has never been greater. It is my sincerest wish that the human race moves forward as one, united in purpose and philosophy."
03 SEP 3302
This report presents the latest data on expansion and withdrawal among the galaxy's minor factions.
Here are the latest factions to have expanded into new systems:
BD-20 2665 State Organisation
Progressive Party of Nawait
Guincans Legal PLC
Quaaybuwan Partnership
Bidiono Independents
Tewi Guardians of Tradition
Elite German Commanders
New BD-18 394 Autocracy
Raba Solutions
Dukes of Lepchaimyu
Expansions occur when a minor faction reaches a sufficient level of influence and there is a populated system within striking distance. Expansion is costly, so when a faction expands, the wealth and development level of the system it controls are temporarily reduced.
Here are the latest factions in withdrawal:
Social Savii Confederacy
New Arexack Law Party
LTT 617 Regulatory State
Surmati Limited
Olurung Blue Legal PLC
Pa Para Partners
LAWD 8 Major Corp.
61 Ursae Majoris Liberals
Nuakea Republic Party
Democrats of Ruwachis
Factions are considered to be in withdrawal if their level of influence within a system drops below a certain level. If the faction's influence remains low for a total of five days, the faction must leave the system entirely. If the faction manages to increase its level of influence, it remains in the system.