28 JAN 3303
Outspoken conspiracy theorist Ricardo Bentonio has lent his voice to the debate surrounding reports of mysterious spacecraft. And true to form, he has made some rather implausible claims.
On his programme 'Behind the Curtain', Bentonio said:
"I am in contact with an individual who has irrefutable proof that these ships are Thargoid vessels. And what's more, I have been reliably informed that the Thargoids have been exerting direct influence over human society. Everything that is happening is unfolding according to their plan. Soon, it will be too late!"
Few in the media or the world of politics deigned to respond to Bentonio's claims.
28 JAN 3303
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:
Branglal PLC
Natural LP 811-17 Conservatives
HIP 13269 Silver Drug Empire
HIP 114530 Guardians
Mutujiali Empire Consulate
Jaques
New Belenja Defence Party
HIP 65921 Silver Bridge Systems
Paesui Xena Empire Group
Cheneti Guardians of Tradition
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:
The Pilots Federation
Zugen Incorporated
Heike Co
Firdaus Transport Company
Mictlan Empire Assembly
HIP 114044 Empire Group
Karsha Empire Consulate
Peng Dung Jet Creative Network
Xuanduna Imperial Society
Betel Free
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.