Corporate Cosmos [IC | Closed]

by **Ovstylap** » Thu Nov 17, 2022 8:43 am

Archie Robins, Perth, Australia, March 1st

"Ladies and gentlemen. Employees and honoured guests. Representatives of the Australasian Emergency Government and members of the press. Viewers and witnesses of the world. I am simply delighted to share with you all today this prestigious moment in the history of KICKK. Today is much more than simply the result of a major investment. Today is much more than KICKK developing its own sectors. No, ladies and gentlemen, today marks a great step forward for humanity. Humanity is at a critical point in its history. The world is in many ways failing us. But it is not too late to change that fate in certain parts of the globe. And there is not just this earth, but much, much beyond it. KICKK believes in humanity, it believes in the possibility of a successful future, a successful recovery.

This will not be without pain, sacrifice, effort, or investment. It will require dedication, persistence, determination, and human creativity. It will require research, development, technology, innovation. And this is what KICKK shall lead the way in. Even as others begin to take to the stars, KICKK too shall join them, and not only join them, but excel where they have achieved, to push further the new frontiers that they establish. Today, with the opening of this Lab. KICKK pushes away the end of humanity, it pushes forward the horizons of our possible achievements. Ladies and gentlemen, it is my great honour and privilege to be able, on behalf of my corporation, the Perth Centre for Astro-Innovation!"

Archie Robins, dressed in one of the finest suits that could be found on earth, turned with elegance, and lowered a metal device which had been up his sleeve, cutting through the red laser which barred the entrance, and with a flicker, the laser ceased, and he was able to step forward, and with a pair of simple scissors, cut the red synthetic ribbon by the entrance. A combination of tradition, and a hint of the future. That was what KICKK was all about.

Even as hundreds of photos, and plenty of footage was taken, and Archie smiled a full lnd bountiful smile- a reflection of his genuine excitement for the company, he was also furious. In France only two capital had been offered by the state, and they had completely declined to engage with KICKK's communications. Still, KICKK would release the food, but just slightly later, despite having received the funds. Perhaps tomorrow... after his latest plan had been put into effect.

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Thu Nov 17, 2022 9:00 am

Shoppers Save Mart, Cape Hoek, South Africa
March, 2120

A nice man with a smile pasted on his face scanned Matilda's card, and then her face, before mechanically waving her through the entrance.

"Welcome to Save Mart! Where shoppers save!"

She wasn't entirely sure if she needed to respond to the man - the two armed guards at his back made her feel like she should be more polite than usual, so she stammered out commonplace 'thank you, you too' in her flustered state, and pushed her cart forward quickly. The line behind her was no shorter than when she had joined it, but after waiting only a few minutes she was very happy to be inside the store.

It was costly, yes. But not as costly as it could be, not by half. Inside the armored precinct of the Save Mart, newly opened in Cape Hoek, Matilda almost felt like weeping. There were no brands here, or at least no other brands than AgriSource and HomeSource, two of whatever faceless conglomerate ran the institution's own labels were. But the prices were so low. That had been what got her to buy the card, even though it was almost a month's wages for the mother of three.

They had talked about it on the television, a decision which seemed almost too good to be true - Blue Sky and AgriSource were partnering to create wholesalers, offering goods directly to consumers at wholesale prices. Grocery worker unions were up in arms, of course, and there had been monopoly complaints filed with Parliament by other food retailers. It stood to reason. AgriSource controlled better than ninety percent of the commercial farming operations in Cape Province, and if they started selling their goods directly to consumers, whole sectors of the economy might be left out to dry.

But Matilda didn't care about any of that.

She shoveled noodles and greens and synthetic meat slabs into her cart almost as fast as her arms could move. With these prices her budget would stretch so much further that she could veritably feel the ambitions returning to her heart. They must be taking a loss on these prices, to drive in business - she was sure of it at some level. But she didn't care about market shares, or profit margins. All she saw was the opportunity for her sons to have full bellies tonight.

Which was exactly what the marketing minds at AgriSource wanted her to see.

Blue Sky conducts Major Action: Innovate and adopts Farm-to-Table Distribution Networks

by **Ovstylap** » Thu Nov 17, 2022 11:09 am

Internal Document, European Branch, Alpha Seven #00854

Encryption Level: Enhanced
Access Level: 08+

Title: Alternative food contracts in France.

Abstract: Following surprisingly ineffective negotiations on the sale of food to the Third French Empire, KICKK's European Branch has negotiated its own additional contracts and has attempted to stretch how far it can sell its own food, in order to raise private capital.

Summary: Despite requesting a total of 8 capital to be transferred to Australia, from the Third French Empire, and offering additional services an agreements, in the wake of the major taxation efforts undertaken by that power (or ten capital straight to the European Branch of KICKK), the French authorities have simply not responded to any forms of negotiations in an official capacity. Where they have done, they have attempted to lower the prices, and in the end, simply transferred two capital into our accounts. This we believe will not go down with Senior Corp, and so European Branch has undertaken the necessary actions to raise private European capital in addition to that given by the state.

Content: KICKK's investments in France amounted to a very substantial amount of capital, in the hope of establishing a long term healthy relationship with the power there. Despite making various negotiating efforts to secure a significant return on the investment, and build trust, and even both constructing the farms and harvesting in good faith, the desired payments have not been forthcoming. Most recently, without additional communication, 25% of what we requested in terms of payment was delivered to our accounts, and our own analysis suggests that additional funding is not forthcoming. As such, since we still hold onto the food, and the state's resources have not been used to collect the food, we are distributing it ourselves.

Though a missive has now been sent to the French government informing them of our appreciation of their purchase of our food, we have distributed it according to our own decisions and apparatus, which may thus not caused the distribution of food that they desired, but that is because they did not negotiate in full with us, and pay anywhere near what we asked for. Nonetheless, the missive details that we are still willing to continue negotiations, and hope that we can restart our relationship with France, and thus have a positive relationship going forward. If the French government is unwilling to co-operate with KICKK, then we shall look to sell on the farms to a corporation with the capacity to run them effectively, given that it would overstretch governmental resources to run and protect the farms.

As such, over the past week, a certain amount of food for KICKK employees, in addition to the food produced by our farms, and a special assignment of synthetic meat sent over from India as operations there scale down, KICKK convoys and transports have left our major food production facilities, and distributed food throughout France. Sometimes, this has been by going to a location and impromptu selling the food ourselves, but othertimes, KICKK has arranged contracts with non-state actors, civil society organisations, businesses, charities, or even rich individuals, in order to sell the food. That which was not sold by us was handed over as per the original contract to the government.

Due to this, the two capital which has been given by the French government has in fact been joined by two capital raised from the society at large. A request was made to Senior Corp to assign the limited power available in Perth to the Cryptocentre, which immediately set to work on mining crypto, raising we believe 3 capital, whilst also processing the transfer of capital electronically from France to Australia. In total then, the investment into French farms has made even, and future relationships with the government will show whether this was the right idea or not.

Indeed, hopefully the temporary blackouts in many parts of Western Australia will have been worth us transferring over the capital raised in Europe. Indeed, hopefully KICKK will continue to operate its European Branch after this negotiation fiasco.

Document Ends.

by **The Empire of Tau** » Thu Nov 17, 2022 11:15 am

New England Territories

Selling consumer goods in what is essentially a decentralized territory filled with warlords and city-states is an interesting venture. Traditional methods of store-front retailing and sale are present within city-states like Chicago and Detroit. Good Market, a supermarket chain owned by ARC, sells about eighty percent of ARC’s retail goods. The other twenty percent comes from direct sales to denizens outside established cityscapes - the rurals and towns. ARC has long decided not to run any stores outside the city-states due to the past experience of bandits, raiders, and batshit-insane warlords constantly harassing and stealing goods from said retail spots. Stationing armed security guards also had the effect of turning retail fronts into battlefields from time to time. Today, ARC has opted to do direct sales to leaders of various towns, communities, and communes, on a case-by-case basis. This is done through negotiation, figuring out the price, transport times, and general logistics. Once everything is sorted out and goods paid for in advance, ARC does a speedy delivery to the settlement and gets out as quickly as it arrived. While a bit more costly and logistical complex, these sales of goods in warlord territories are lucrative enough to offset costs and bring in a good profit. The governor of a small-time town in rural New England is willing to pay for the higher market-up of ARC's retail items, which is good enough for ARC to deliver.

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Thu Nov 17, 2022 2:03 pm

North Beira, Tanganika, East Africa

It was an impressive facility, to be sure - nothing less than would be expected out of one of the dozen most powerful corpo-states on the planet. The degree to which the local Kingfisher and KICKK personnel went to isolate themselves from the volatility of the indigenous climate and geopolitics were formidable. Spartan almost in the lack of decoration, which bespoke a multitude of facts to Valerian as his party received the limited tour. The Commander seemed unimpressed, so he worked to put out more than his fair share of compliments and little social cues of awe and appreciation for the finery that had been laid on for their visit. It was important their hosts thought well of the delegation, if they were to establish a working relationship.

Eventually they managed to break away from the tour to refresh themselves, though such was hardly necessary after their short flight. Still, the aging man appreciated the opportunity to discretely adjust his personal homeopathic suite, and fire off a quick update to the central office. There had been concerns, though only from the most antipathetic corners of the Conglomerate, that the East Africans might interfere. No such luck, at least from the Federation's perspective - though he was happy his personal skin didn't have to be put in the frying pan for larger objectives.

The Commander beat him to the conference room that had been set aside for their use, and was standing impassively scanning the assembled KICKK notables frigidly when he arrived. An aide pointed out a blonde with a demanding presence and introduced her as "Lilly Cameron, KICKK's East Africa Branch Executive Officer", which provoked a short marionette bow from the under-secretary.

Valerian's tones were a breath short of wry, what diplomats might call correct.

"Ms. Cameron. A pleasure, likewise. The Chairman is very appreciative of KICKK's decision to meet with my colleagues and I, given the light brief we felt appropriate to provide for this engagement."

He turned to one of his aides and clapped twice lightly, almost a gesture of signal than anything else. The man nodded slowly, almost contemplatively, and the representative from Blue Sky smiled, more genuinely now.

"My apologies. A simple ewar provisio. My superiors would be a trifle miffed if anything we discussed here happened to reach the ears of your local contacts without a meeting of minds on both of our parts, and you can never be too careful. Jenkins here is pretty heavily modded, and we wanted to be sure."

The silver-haired man stepped forward and to one side of the room, gesturing out over North Beira with an expansive sweep of his arm.

"A lovely city you have here. But rather untidy. Good for Kingfisher's business model though, I shouldn't wonder. Ms. Cameron. If I may be bold, could I inquire if KICKK sees East Africa as an expansion market for non-security contracts?"

Sud Afrika conducts Major Action: Propaganda in Antarctica

by **Ovstylap** » Thu Nov 17, 2022 3:40 pm

North Beira, Tanganika, East Africa

Although the Sud Afrikan delegation appeared quite keenly interested in the security arrangements of the compund, it was unsurprising that they were not hugely impressed by the limited decor and few displays of KICKK's significant wealth. After all, the compounds in East Africa were to secure what was quite literally a foothold for the huge market that was Africa- some things hadn't changed over the century. Africa at large had seen some of the greatest increases in population, wealth, and technological innovation- the latter the inevitable result of that continent facing the largest issues from climate change early on, as well as being the bountiful source of huge amounts of vital resources.

The continent had of course seen some of the greatest conflicts and population declines- the devastating deliberate destruction of the world's largest dam during a war had within 24 hours taken a million lives, and made millions homeless, and that was just one incident from 2049. It had single handedly caused the collapse of Ethiopia, Sudan, and Eritrea. Nowadays, KICKK's holdings in the region were designed to operate as a centre of operations where they could just about cover their running costs with constant mercenary work, and the occasional expedition to secure some vital resource or other. Where the real money came in was when vast shipments of goods, many of the highest quality, came in from Australia.

It was certainly interesting to have the Sud Afrikan representatives, as usually KICKK conducted its deals and contracts outside of the walls of its various compounds. If they had known, say, a couple of weeks more in advance, perhaps Senior Corp would have sent some of its own people over, as well as some decor. Oh well, none of that mattered now, thought Lilly Cameron as she was introduced to the emissaries, and, oh, what was this? A representative of Blue Sky? This was going to be hitting her pay grade as soon as the first words were spoken she thought, yet she remained in full control of her body language and facial expressions, although a glimmer of excitement was coming through. When dealing with the East African powerholders, it was vital to keep up a professional, stable demeanour- that either unnerved or reassured those KICKK dealt with- which was respectively useful in certain cases.

"Of course, we understand you bringing an external representative to ensure that KICKK will not be acting against any of the principles of good business and contract law which do still blink and glimmer in this part of the world." The silver-haired man described North Beira as untidy, and she understood, and merely smiled when he mentioned how that was good for business. "It is not KICKK's prerogative to act as a colonial power and arrange the internal affairs of the people that live here. We sell our goods and services in accordance with our interests, in the exact same way you understand."

The man asked a probing question, and Lilly knew that she had to respond wisely.

"It is well known that KICKK's ultimate advances are aimed towards the stars- but that will require large amounts of capital, and it is believed that East Africa will be a major market for the goods we produce over the year ahead. I can tell you that right now, in Australia, they are preparing to launch an asteroid mining mission, and almost all innovation is aimed towards space. Our economic interests remain grounded on earth for the time being though. So, East Africa- if it will be a centre of investment for innovation and other operations, well that might depend on the nature of our relations and arrangements with our neighbours- be they governments or corps. I would be very interested to hear what it is that you have to suggest or offer.

I will be clear- yes, we see East Africa as a market for our goods and services- and it is certainly not ruled out as a region for expansion, provided this is stable and of appropriate risk when we look at market conditions and external influences- whether they be from South Africa, the Congo Basin, or the Horn of Africa."

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Thu Nov 17, 2022 7:59 pm

North Beira, Tanganika, East Africa
March, 2120

The emissary from Blue Sky appeared satisfied with that summation, and turned away from the window, inclining his head gracefully toward one of his counterparts who had stood silent, listening. The Commander. She raised a hand curtly, a halting motion.

"Forgive my intrusion, Madam Officer. I'm afraid you have been slightly mislead, though not maliciously. I am the head of this delegation, not my colleague Valerian - we are here to sound you out on a rather delicate matter, and precautions had to be taken."

Precautions, yes. If the KICKK representative had disavowed any interest in the region they would have had little to work with, and only a rogue military force in East Africa, which would have done nobody any good. Such a state of affairs would have seen the Command Central liaison stand silent, another face in the crowd save for her fatigues, and some menial blathering negotiations about food aid or economic development packages eventually amounting to very little.

But here, yes, here was the opportunity.

"I am Tanya Cerimesov, General of the Second Rank of the Federation Guard. On behalf of the state, I'm here to negotiate a contract with Kingfisher Security, and by extension, KICKK."

The red haired woman half turned her head, jerking her chin, and one of the other members of the delegation stepped forward, clad in similar striking sable and ivory fatigues like her own. Antarctic dress pattern, for the military hobnobs in the group. He placed a small pyramidal crystal on the conference table, and as its base touched the hardwood a topographical map of East Africa winked into existence floating in the room - a handy optical illusion.

"I will be straightforward, madam. The Federation has had several recent backchannel appeals from humanitarian, political, and economic interests in Tanganika, Bulaweyo, and Harare seeking intervention. Border clashes with warlords operating out of the Nduna Zone have created political pressures on Sud Afrika in her parliament to seek a military solution to the instability here in East Africa."

Tanya paused, and allowed the import of those vital words to sink in.

"As such, I have been authorized to offer KICKK a concession contract within what is to become the Sud Afrikan province of Swahar, in exchange for military assistance in the transfer of civil governance within those regions. Your subsidiaries are uniquely placed with the ability to ensure any local disorderly elements have minimal opportunity to coalesce into a meaningful military resistance to Sud Afrikan intervention, and your peacekeeping expertise in the region is second to none."

Valerian chimed in, his face and grin starkly controlled, though obviously not entirely forced.

"Competition is good for all entities, and we at Blue Sky do not shy away from the principle of sharing corporate space here in East Africa with KICKK, or any developments KICKK might choose to undertake in the region."

The Commander nodded.

"There is much profit to be gained from the imposition of proper order and stability here in East Africa, and we want KICKK and Kingfisher to be part of that order."

Sud Afrika uses Minor Action: Conscription in South Africa

by **The Empire of Tau** » Fri Nov 18, 2022 12:24 am

New England Territories, Michigan
831 Selden St, Detroit, 48201
Selden Research Center

A finely suited man inspects a series of machines, briefly walking to each one with straightforward footwork. The man smiles onward, quite pleased with the new delivery of lab equipment and instruments. He unpins his name badge located on his upper left - dusting it off with a piece of red silk. He stares at his own name for a second, Lucas Carver, before pining his badge to where it was. Domineering in posture and scientific ability, he was the director of ARC’s research and development department in its entirety. Like Harrison himself, Carver is an extremely ambitious individual. He envisions nothing more than absolute American technological supremacy - to place American technology at the forefront of humanity and its rise to the stars. Of course, this was a mere vision; his own future machinations of a technocrat. There was plenty of work to be done. The first ventures into space by the corporation were pleasant news to his ears when he first heard it sometime ago. “His” own research used to propel the Americas into space. Still, this was just child’s play. Much more must be done to prove the supremacy of American technology. Carver was not satisfied with just asteroid mining. He wanted something grander. Carver already read the “American Forward” plan quite some time ago - content with what ARC has planned for the future. It aligned with what he wanted. After all, he did write a portion of it.

Walking forward to the construction site not too far away from here, he stares on as workers and heavy machinery assemble the new expansion of the Selden Research Center. ARC was pumping millions into Carver’s department - largely on the construction of labs in Detroit. The dreams of Carver are slowly becoming a reality.

by **Ovstylap** » Fri Nov 18, 2022 7:37 am

North Beira, Tanganika, East Africa
March, 2120

Lilly chewed her lip for a second as she was informed of the new situation. She returned then to an intelligent and actively listening posture and smile- the moments of chewing the lip hopefully expressing just a slight moment of frustration that she had been misled.

She listened closely as the Sud Afrikan and Blue Sky representatives made their cases. She took a while to think over what she would say next, the moments of silence extending to just about the amount of time one might begin to consider awkward, and then a few seconds longer.

"Well General I thank you and your delegation for being frank with myself as KICKK's foremost representative in the region. I can understand and sympathise with the Sud Afrikan state's desire for a stable and secure region on the border of its core territory. KICKK recognises the situation- the Sud Afrikan military has expanded by 50% since the start of this year, and I believe that I am correct in saying that procurement is ongoing for a further expansion? After all, Kingfisher does occasionally purchase from the Sud Afrikan defence industry. Further, Blue Sky's own security assets are similar to our own which can be immediately deployed.

That's the reality, and we accept that. The idea of you providing us a 'concession' however is of mild concern- KICKK has been able to operate in East Africa for decades, working with whichever powers it chooses to engage with- and honours its contracts and obligations. Being allowed merely to continue operations, in a majorly shifting environment which would alter our corporate arrangements here would be costly. Whilst we fully believe in the humanitarian benefits, and the likely market stability of East Africa becoming stable and lawful, to offer full military assistance which results in us facing a completely different dynamic without due compensation is something which, even if I wanted to accept, would not go down well with those I am representing."

She looked towards the Blue Sky representative. "Indeed, KICKK would be happy in principle to have a shared corporate space with Blue Sky, and remains grateful for Blue Sky's sharing of Jumpdrive technology, and believe that we can be especially strong partners with a clear interest in advancing humanity. I would like to come to some sort of solution with you all, but I must make it clear that on behalf of KICKK I have five major points.

One - Given Sud Afrika's military capability, and the possibility of it working alongside Blue Sky's own security forces, what reason does KICKK have to believe that following its assistance in Sud Afrikan deployments, that it will not be forced to concede more after this initial agreement? In East Africa, we have a saying. 'Without a history of trust and mutual benefit, words mean only as much as they weigh.'

Two - With the Sud Afrikan state assuming control over East Africa, and thus being expected to provide basic necessities for this region as well as Antarctica and South Africa, how will it be able to accommodate sufficient food provision to prevent a renewed breakdown following the removal of other actors of power and influence in the region?

Three- In the wake of possible assistance from KICKK - and Kingfisher in specific, assisting in the new takeover, what have you been authorised to offer in terms of our future economic relationship- particularly in terms of any new tax and legal arrangements.

Four- George Msongle is currently in contract for the remainder of the year with KICKK, and is the primary powerholder in Tanganika- for us to violate our contract would completely undermine our current relations in East Africa- if he can be persuaded, which we could very well achieve, what might be offered to him in terms of his place in the new order?

Five- Finally then, in terms of delineation of market areas with Blue Sky- we would like to know in what sectors Blue Sky would like to operate, and thus know where we can operate without friction.

Foremostly, I would like to reassure you all that KICKK is absolutely interested in a positive relationship with you all, and I think that a sufficient addressal of these queries, and an offer of financial compensation or incentive would reassure us in the possibility of a new and healthy development of our relationship with you all."

Lilly sat down, and pulled out a simple notepad and pen- as such items cannot be hacked, and tapped her pen against her lips twice before waiting for the emissaries to respond to her concerns and queries. Hopefully, hopefully, they could understand KICKK's concerns and would be cognizant of KICKK's major strengths and stakes in the region, and would be willing to offer a financial commitment which would enable that first building of trust. She thought for a few moments as the emissaries prepared to respond, that perhaps if a significant grant, with a loan atop, or maybe, just maybe, a favorably termed loan- could cement a relationship between KICKK and Sud Afrika which would enable them to go forth in trust. Something like what, 20 capital total from Sud Afrika and/or Blue Sky within the next two or three months, with this returned by the end of the year with a value of say, 25, or 30 if the terms were just right. Ah, and here was the reply. Lilly listened closely...

NO ACTIONS

by **Ralnis** » Fri Nov 18, 2022 7:56 am

There is no love for the corps from Earth. But, there is no love for a starving man

No lore, just mechanics.

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Fri Nov 18, 2022 9:21 am

North Beira, Tanganika, East Africa
March, 2120

The delegates from South Africa stood and listened, the military officer dropping into an unconscious parade rest, her hands clasped behind her back, Valerian nodding here and there and taking the odd note. One of his aides sat to one side of the table at a gesture, with her back to one of the walls, and her fingers flowed over a small device with an upper component which moved back and forth intermittently. Those with ancient expertise might recognize a modernized version of a very old machine, the typewriter - so much more efficient for legible documentation that handwritten communiques, but completely airgapped, no vulnerabilities unless an adversary literally obtained possession of the device.

Once Cameron had finished, the Blue Sky representative nodded emphatically, his eyes turning to Tanya, who shrugged noncommittally and spoke, her tones measured.

"Your first concern I'm not entirely certain I understand, in KICKK's shoes. The Federation possesses a robust legal system, both for civil and corporate affairs. A breach of contract by the state with an independent entity like yourselves would be appropriately litigated, and any judgement executed by the agents of the court appropriately. Certainly you can appreciate that my superiors have a very negligible interest in disrupting this axiom merely in order to remove a security contractor from a secondary area of operations."

The General continued.

"Your concerns about ongoing stability are warranted - and weigh much on the minds of our own planners. Current timeframes put Sud Afrika in a state of food-positive production for all regions, including a theoretical market in East Africa, by the end of the first quarter. You may have heard rumors of Blue Sky's new direct distribution model and predictive demand algorithms; I have been given liberty to confirm to you the existence of the same."

Valerian jumped in at a glance from the red-haired military woman.

"We are very optimistic about the long term prognosis for hunger in East Africa, and thus the return of civil stability. If push comes to shove, the state has deep enough pockets to provide temporary relief while distribution infrastructure and our new automated production forums are brought online. We anticipate a strong downward trend in food prices before May, assuming no major disruptions or unforeseen climatic impacts."

"As for the legal and tax ramifications..."

The Blue Sky delegate shrugged his shoulders apologetically.

"Creating alternative regulations for KICKK or Kingfisher would take an act of Parliament, which is historically not the most nimble body. Sud Afrika has a very favorable environment for business, with modest commercial levies and information-sharing requirements. We do not anticipate KICKK having any difficult profiting under the current corporate laws - no difficulty at all. Your people have proven themselves able to flourish even where warlordism and factional conflict are a matter of course. Quarterly returns will no doubt only be enhanced by the rule of law and the decrease of societal conflict."

The click clack of the typist had mostly fallen silent at this point. It was apparent that the representatives from South Africa had anticipated such a rejoinder - what corporation didn't try to weasel their way out from regulation? - but had been given very little latitude to allow the same.

The General stretched her neck, and seated herself at one of the conference chairs.

"The matter of George Msongle is a difficult one for the Federation. I'm afraid we don't see a future for him, going forward. International opinion toward his regime is... toxic, to say the least. The best I'll be able to wrangle is a cash payout and his quiet disappearance into retirement or emigration abroad, and even that might be pushing it if he makes any noise. Kingfisher's actions toward his people have been scrupulous - his own enforcers, far less so. Both my career, and indeed the current political consensus in the Federation, would be at risk if we attempted to integrate him in a meaningful way into the future government of this region."

"We appreciate at the Kingfisher stands by her contracts - but by equal measure, I was advised prior to coming here that your standard security and enforcement contract includes any number of quit clauses which might be applicable to his situation. I'm not an expert on that matter, but given the ongoing instability, and his likely inability to pay in the coming months, not to mention the potential outbreak of regional-scale conflict if these food riots continue... I'm certain your own advisors could wrangle a legitimate out from the undertaking which would leave Kingfisher's reputation sterling. All that is necessary is to control that narrative, which your people seem good at."

Still the typewriter was quiet. These records would, in time, be subject to freedom of information requests back in South Africa - and it was best for all involved that the status of a man with established criminal ties be kept very much so off the books.

Valerian chimed in, ticking off the number five on his hands, pacing now in front of the window looking out on the city.

"The business model of Blue Sky - ah, that's a good question. You know we mainly handle research and development. Only recently, due to the absolutely intractable state of the food market in the Federation, have we made efforts to become involved in the agricultural sector. Our contracts with the state-"

He halted, gesturing with a smile to the General.

"-our contracts with the state are fiercely lucrative for the provision of foodstuffs to the general populace. We don't anticipate deviating from that course any time soon, as the board of directors agrees that the ongoing stability of Sud Afrika is of vital importance to Blue Sky's financial success. Indeed, as effectively our only customer at this juncture, we are bound to them hip and thigh."

"Expanding the provision of food to East Africa would be an immediate priority. But security contracting, mineral exploitation - those might be in the works somewhere eventually, but they are hardly priorities at the moment."

Tanya nodded her agreement.

"If Kingfisher's conduct during this peacekeeping operation impresses, I would be very much so unsurprised if parliament chooses to extend additional contracts to KICKK for security matters. It is politically unpalatable to send conscripts, or even national volunteers, into the crucible of war for the good of our neighbors. Body bags chip away at the spirit of the nation. Not to be crass, but mercenaries sign up for that risk, and it would be the preference of the Federation if peacekeeping relied on private contractors, not federal boots on the ground."

"All in all, of course, Sud Afrika endorses the spirit of competition, and corporate specialization. Such principles are enshrined in the ethos of our people, and we believe they provide the greatest results for our citizens."

A few seconds passed as the typist caught up, and the two representatives from South Africa fell silent, allowing the KICKK party to digest the long explanations.

Tanya broke the silence.

"Do those thoughts allay your fears, Madam Officer?"

Prince Victor Expansion Zone, Donning Maude Prefecture, Antarctica

Heavy winds drummed against the side of the great glass tower, tossing snowflakes into the sidewall in such numbers that it was difficult to even see out to the tundra beyond. Viktor looked down at his wristwatch with a chuckle - nothing quite like noon on the Astral Continent to be as dark as night under the persistent storms.

Back when they first started colonizing the Zone he understood that the colonists had been very optimistic about the weather - the Antarctic had been classified as a polar desert, and it was hoped the right assemblage of growing zones and solar facilities could make it a new paradise for mankind. That hope had faded as the climatic disruptions of the 2070s intensified, and the post 2.5 C world became a reality. These days the open plains were more often a rollicking vortex of high velocity storms and torrential rains than anything hospitable.

But the real estate was cheap.

And that was why Blue Sky was here. The glittering forest of vertical farms which the cranes and fabricators were busying raising skyward whenever the storm broke - and even during the less violent flurries - relied on large amounts of land, and the abundant high mineral regolith which the bores were bringing up from beneath the glacial pack. Treated with new polar cultivars from the Archangel Oblast, it would only take a few months before the series of lichens, molds, and hardy grasses had converted the impervious rock and ground stone into a viable soil base for aeroponics and other more traditional agricultural methods.

For now they had to do with hardy lichens bundled and reprocessed, the type of thing consumers hated to eat, but which did a very adequate job of preventing your stomach from gnawing at your backbone when artificially flavored and fortified with reprocessed nutrients. It would mean the state could look into cutting back food subsidies here, at least, which was exactly what the contract with Blue Sky was intended to do.

Viktor turned away from the storm-wracked exterior wall, and wandered back into the maze of lichen tubes, taking intermittent measurements. This crop would be ready within a week or two, with only a hint of providence.

Blue Sky conducts Agricultural Expansion in Antarctica

by **The GAmeTopians** » Fri Nov 18, 2022 4:14 pm

Gulf of Mexico
March, 2120

Thruster fire buffeted the landing pad, the towering spacecraft easing down onto the ship below it. The entire hull of the IHS Suiren groaned under the new weight, but eventually the craft came to a full stop. Figures clad in Imai uniforms swarmed the deck, hauling clamps and restraining lines to hold everything in place.
"Captain, proceed at half pace - we're now under load, and every head on this ship will roll if the ore in that craft doesn't stay put."

Imai Holdings is Harvesting Asteroids (Major) in Dixie

by **Diarcesia** » Fri Nov 18, 2022 7:08 pm

I have just finished reading “Queen of Arcadia” by Betsy Tanner. I would certainly recommend it to all of you, especially if you are interested in space exploration and history.

It is a fictionalised account of the events surrounding the loss of two ships, the Queen of Arcadia and the Rupert, led by Rosanna Finley in 2045-2048.

It starts with a prologue that reads like a news article from the 2030s and sets up the story of two friends who are attempting to make it to Montefaune before they have reached their golden years.

It then goes back in time to when Rosanna left Earth, leading 128 individuals into what would be called “The Lost Expedition”. The book details all that happened during this journey, as well as side stories about other explorers/adventurers at around the same time period.

It is a great read and I have no doubt that some of you out there will love it too.

Bonus Action One - Minor: Fund Public Education

Stats
Population: 14
Battalions: 0
Capital:  14 - 8 (Fund Public Education) = 6
Hunger: 17
Public Opinion: 22
Innovation: 0 + 2 (Fund Public Education) = 2

Effect: Extrasolar Power
;Until: December 2130
;Public opinion per Month: +5
;Food Aid efficacy multiplier: x2

Effect: Independent Localism
;Hunger per Month: -3
;Capital per Month: -1
;Taxation Income Change: -4 Capital

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Fri Nov 18, 2022 7:29 pm

Lower Havenframe Arcology, Prince Rupert Prefecture, Antarctica
March, 2120

Men in the heavy black suits of the municipal police pushed back the crowd, and others with bullhorns shouted repeated instructions. Neurostunners crackled here and there in warning discharges, but as yet none of the slab-shielded peace officers had deployed them into the massed vagrants. Under the watchful eye of a dozen different surveillance cameras the force shaped the public presence into a semblance of a line, and only then did the heavy armorglas doors of the shelter open.

"One at a time! Show your stamp when asked! One at a time!"

They just about managed to prevent the wastrels from rushing the facility. One at a time was a polite fiction, but the aid workers inside the long hall were used to that fiction and so didn't pay it too much mind. Thickly jowled matrons distributed bowls of steaming protein slurry to the grungy workers, and as the underclass devoured their meager fare they were surreptitiously scanned for endemic diseases and obvious health issues by dedicated sensors. Those with egregious injuries and contagions were politely but firmly approached by uniformed HealthSource workers, and ushered into antechambers where most were simply stuffed full of a multi-course antibiotic and sent back out the door. Those who were the sickest received fortified nutrient wafers with plenipotent immune boosters, courtesy of longstanding contracts with the local hab officials.

Mainly, though, the shelter did a very good job of putting calories into hungry bellies. And that was exactly what it was meant to do. There was some waste, sure, and it wasn't exactly the most lucrative contract, to provide starvation rations for the least fortunate under the false skies of the polar habitation domes. But it was a good use for the most unpalatable of the first genecrops of the new Astral facilities, and more importantly it kept the factories running and the workers from rioting.

And at the end of the day, the most fundamental part of any social contract is a full belly. It didn't really matter if that belly was full of good food or bad, as long as it was hot and it banished the pangs of hunger.

Blue Sky uses Minor Action: Harvesting Season

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Fri Nov 18, 2022 7:48 pm

International Worker's Affairs - March 2120

Greetings, workers of the world! You join us tonight as our People's Soviet Commentators discuss the ongoing crises of the twenty-second century, focusing on the issues which matter to you, which your overlords dare not address. Thank you for tuning in to Bolshevik Citizen's TV, the People's Voice!

Columbian warlord Pierce Nuevarrez today announced his annexation of the territory of Bogotagrad, amid heavy fighting in the outskirts of the nearby megapolis of Ur-Medel with a coalition of local protection committees and armed gangs. The warlord, notorious for his draconian but productive approach to crime and punishment, has appealed for the delivery of advanced arms to his forces for the "termination of a conflict which has raged for far too long", and offered appropriate remuneration in kind. The international community in the Hague has roundly condemned atrocities committed by his Neu-Chavista forces, but unscrupulous entities may see this as an opportunity to gain leverage in this part of the world at the expense of the common man.

Immense dust storms of typhoon force lash the Maghreb, displacing thousands and leaving millions with devastated soil and entire crops destroyed. The failure of the Saharan Wall is becoming clearer with every passing spring as hurricane-caliber winds coming out of the Mid-Atlantic continue to degrade the lives of people across northwest Africa. Refugees are said to be pouring into both Egypt and across the narrow Straits of Gibraltar, placing a crisis in the hands of the new French Empire, whose position on immigration and the free movement of peoples may be put to the test as millions strain their social cohesion and goodwill - but the people will not be opposed, and we here at BCTV are always staunch supporters of any challenge to such a regressive regime as that of the so-called Empire!

Speaking of typhoons, the unseasonable Typhoon Hainan made landfall across the Incheon Peninsula yesterday. The damage caused to local industries and the loss of life this force of nature will cause is hitherto unknown, but the Category 6 typhoon came ashore between the aging Seowon and Gaijang seawalls, and flooding in some areas could reach as much as six meters. The impact this will have on the reunified Koreas cannot be understated, but the people of the Juche State will stand firm no doubt with aid from their comrades in Greater China and the Heavenly Khaganate.

We urge those who wish to dedicate their time and labor to the cause of the united workers to call our free hotline at 1-900-709-1104! The People's Union is always looking for immigrants willing to give of the sweat of their brow for the worker's paradise, and all those yearning to breathe free of the oppressor's yoke may find succor and simple living here in Greater China. For BCTV I've been Mei Yang, and this has been your monthly summary. We move now to the panel discussion with Luxury Minister Feng Gulang, who has recently been praised for raising the chocolate ratio to sixteen grams per month!

by **The Empire of Tau** » Sat Nov 19, 2022 2:27 am

American Reclamation Corporation
Marketing Department

Bold, aggressive, and in-your-face, American marketing has always been at the forefront of convincing audiences to buy items that they might not need or want. Anything from medicine, toys, insurance, cars, and more, artificial demand is the bread and butter of corporations. It’s no different for the American Reclamation Corporation - who’ve been hard at work devising a new ad campaign to pilfer wages from the general populace. Elsewhere, ARC also sells to local businesses and larger medium-sized corporations. These sales, instead of being consumer-based products, are large-scale industrial equipment and parts. ARC has its hands in many markets - resulting in sales across many product sectors. The largest consumer product in ARC’s catalog is household appliances, gaming consoles (and computers), virtual reality sets, and gaming-based live services. For corporate-to-corporate sales or for corporate-to-government sales, ARC normally sells construction equipment, industrial machines, planes, trains, cargo ships, and general refined resource stock. Of course, ARC’s ability to pump up demand does not guarantee its own sales. The current economic climate in the global consumer market is extremely cutthroat with many other corporations able to swoop in and fill the demand. Thankfully, ARC has a stranglehold on the Americas. The only other “American” corporation that threatens sales is Imai Holdings, but both corporations have agreed to cooperate - forming a powerful conglomerate over the Western Hemisphere.

by **Diarcesia** » Sat Nov 19, 2022 8:20 am

The Planetary Union of Montefaune
April, 2120

The government has decided to temporarily halt its efforts in stabilizing the Volcanic Ridge, due to increasing costs and casualties. However, a plan is being formulated that can take advantage of the situation: allow freer enterprise by citizens in the region. Also, from a safe distance, a sightseeing area will be constructed for tourists to view the Ridge as part of a scenic panorama. President Veronique Leduc had been going around making speeches about how this region could be turned into a must-see attraction for adventurers across the known galaxy. The Commissions are currently looking at what infrastructure would be needed and whether it can be implemented with their current budget constraints and corporate joint ventures.

Monthly Action - Major: Propaganda

Stats
Population: 14 + 1 (New Month) = 15
Battalions: 0
Capital:  6 - 1 (Independent Localism) - 5 (Propaganda) = 0
Hunger: 17 + 14 (Population) - 3 (Independent Localism) = 28 
Public Opinion: 22 + 5 (Extrasolar Power) - 17 (Accumulated Hunger) + 10 (Propaganda) = 20
Innovation: 2

Effect: Extrasolar Power
;Until: December 2130
;Public opinion per Month: +5
;Food Aid efficacy multiplier: x2

Effect: Independent Localism
;Hunger per Month: -3
;Capital per Month: -1
;Taxation Income Change: -4 Capital

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Sat Nov 19, 2022 12:16 pm

New Shonaland, South African Border
April 2120

Optics scanned the frontier, and Javier stifled a yawn. The mbukis didn't have the balls to bother with another intrusion, not with the Second stood up. His was a thankless position, here in the fortified blastcrete bunker imbedded below the bedrock of the Ayerou, supplementing the automated warning systems with a pair of human eyeballs. Only two more hours, then his relief would be in, and he could crawl into a warm bunk.

Idly the heavyset Zulu warrior flicked through the channels again. West border fence, nothing. North border length, nothing. Checkpoint, a few old oil tankers making a midnight run. The greenies could take care of that, piece of piss. They might not know their ass from their teakettle, but it didn't require genius-grade training to stamp the transfer papers and run the contraband checks. He pressed the button again.

East border, noth- wait, no. Several low shadowy figures were clustered near the razorwire. His eyes widened, and he sat forward, thumbing for the silent alarm. Deadened fingers manipulated the controls as his brain struggled to make sense of what he was seeing. An incursion? Raiders? Thermals picked them out just fine, so they must be desperate. Nobody in their right mind tried to cross a border for military purposes without opsec.

"Private, talk to me."

The silent alarm had roused the Kduna, and Javier chose his words carefully. He would be peeling potatoes for a month if this didn't sound serious enough and the commandant was irritated.

"We have half a dozen bogies working on the wire just east of mile three. They're inside the trigger perimeter, must have defused the ewar. Potentially military, though thermal sigint is clear, so unverified."

The other end of the line was quiet for a moment, save for the base commander's breathing. Then he spoke.

"Alright, tell the bounders to seal up and sit tight. Two recon birds are en-route to flush these spooks out. No sense in taking any untoward risks with Mbuto running as hot as he is."

Raising the conscripts over the phone, Javier had the gratifying experience of seeing them run for their border post with faces the color of pale milk after he relayed the commandant's instructions. Their first real action, and they would be getting ribbed for months with that footage. But better safe than sorry. And like the commander said, Mbuto, the warlord of Amana State, was running hot. And hotheads did stupid things, like try to push fighters across a monitored border without thermal cloaking.

Sud Afrika takes Minor Action: Raise Conscripts

by **Diarcesia** » Sun Nov 20, 2022 11:56 am

Most Popular Names in Montefaune for Male Children:
1. Justin
2. Garland
3. Jean
4. Elias
5. Christopher
6. Alban
7. Monte

Most Popular Names in Montefaune for Female Children:
1. Michelle
2. Erykah
3. Evan
4. Farrell
5. Jannah
6. Heidi
7. Laiba

Trivia: at the establishment of the first colonies in Montefaune, a significant minority were of Slavic descent and hold a certain nostalgia for the USSR of the 20^th Century. Part of the reason is the perception that it was more stable than its successor-states. Some of the most popular children's names from this cohort are listed below.
1. Vladislav - Male
2. Svitlana - Female
3. Katerina - Female

Bonus Action Two - Minor: Food Aid

Stats
Population: 15
Battalions: 0
Capital: 0
Hunger: 28 - [28 * 25% (Food Aid) * 2 (Extrasolar Power)] - [5 (Food Aid) * 2 (Extrasolar Power)] = 4
Public Opinion: 20
Innovation: 2

Effect: Extrasolar Power
;Until: December 2130
;Public opinion per Month: +5
;Food Aid efficacy multiplier: x2

Effect: Independent Localism
;Hunger per Month: -3
;Capital per Month: -1
;Taxation Income Change: -4 Capital

by **Ovstylap** » Sun Nov 20, 2022 11:58 am

North Beira, Tanganika, East Africa
March, 2120

Throughout the words spoken by the representatives from Sud Afrika and Blue Sky, Lilly Cameron had followed diligently, the occasional nod, or slight smile. She had been particularly interested in the use of what appeared to be a typewriter- she had seen a couple in a museum in Australia (which was actually also used a means of money-laundering- something which only, what, a dozen people knew?) and wrote a note of it in her own notebook. The legal system of Sud Afrika, optimistic ideas on food production- things in Antarctica must be going well then, but the governmental regulations. Well, there was a slight drama, but perhaps something could be agreed. Where Cameron had the least ability to predict what might be said was regarding the fate of George Msongle. Get out clauses, reputation sterling, a compliment about KICKK controlling the narrative- a flicker of a smile from Cameron here. Blue Sky did not appear to have an interest in immediately competitive enterprises, and so that would not be a major problem. And then of course the prospect of working for Kingfisher- the explicit mention of replacing Sud Afrikan citizen's bodies with the bodies of Kingfisher's employees was of some disdain, but in the interests of a good transactional deal, perhaps it would be better to not specifically critique this point.

"Do those thoughts allay your fears Madam Officer?"
The tone appeared sincere.

Lilly Cameron paused for a couple of moments, but this time her delay was more reasonable.

She opened her hands up in a recognisable gesture of 'oh fair play, you've got me.' "My consideration of the risks to KICKK's East Africa Branch has now been ameliorated somewhat yes, thank you. I trust that you can forgive me for not having the strongest experience of the Federation's legal system- a lot of KICKK's work is bound up within its own internal law, and the precedent established via our own previous contracts, rather than within sturdy legal frameworks and hierarchies in stable powers- rarer than diamonds I believe." She smiled at Tanya, making eye contact. "I'm reassured by your commitments and am confident that KICKK will be able to operate in full compliance with such obligations as we may be required to undertake."

"I am pleased for the people of the region to hear that adequate planning and logistics is being put in place to provide food for the East African people, I trust that you agricultural expansions are going well. We understand that Blue Sky is second-to-none in the world of agribusiness currently- and we won't seek to compete with you for food sales in your regions. Indeed, I was informed last week of the success of some of your latest storefronts- wholesale straight to the consumer- unconventional, and presumably leading to some job losses in other sectors of the market, but efficient for sure, I'll give you that." Cameron pursed her lips as she saw the Blue Sky delegate shrug.

Lilly paused for a moment and looked towards the plain ceiling, listening as the air conditioning hummed for a couple of breaths. "You are quite right, outside of Australia, KICKK flourishes time and again with innovation and initiative in regions where stability, predictability, and continuity are rare and fleeting. To a great extent, KICKK engages in high-risk endeavours, and we are very much all about the art of interacting with risk in the most effective ways. What KICKK is indeed, outside of Australia, less used to, is flourishing within the confines of powers. KICKK's experiences, even this year, have shown that a stable power that believes in its own capacity may not seek to engage with a corporation as an equal, and may not find its communication and negotiating techniques forthcoming in its interactions, regardless of the expertise and experience of the corporation it is seeking the services of. I am sure you know of which government in the Northern hemisphere I am referring to." She shot a glance at the typewriter to make sure they understood to not carry on typing that sentence down.

"We would not ask for the creation of new legislation for how KICKK may be dealt with by the Sud Afrikan government. Perhaps a full contract for terms of employment could created by your government, and East Africa Branches legal teams- covering the nature of our relationship. That need not be sorted today. Essentially, KICKK would seek a compromising agreement regarding a particular legal agreement between us- I trust that you can understand that we have operated in a particular way in this part of the world for what is, in business terms in this world, a very long time, and a host of changes in our techniques, procedures, internal laws, and potential layoffs and redistributions of personnel and assets, as well as rebalancing investments, would be required as we integrate into an entirely new power dynamic in the region. Were this not possible, a sufficient, shall we say, token of your government's understanding of this predicament would alleviate my concerns for my branch."

Now for George Msongle. Lilly Cameron smiled. It was indeed true that where KICKK did have a broad legal agreement with any parties in East Africa often did have the necessary clauses to alleviate some of the risk involved in operating in such a, well, chaotic part of the world. The fact that Sud Afrika knew about this sufficiently was perhaps unsurprising, but at least it didn't seem to concern the East Africans, who often tended to be more concerned that they wouldn't suddenly find themselves face-to-face with a raiding team from Kingfisher eliminating their top brass, or finding their warlord rivals being ferried around in armoured transports, leaving them unable to be targeted for fear of Kingfisher retaliating.

"Leave the legitimacy of any outing to us, send us the cash and we'll have George Msongle out of East Africa before April 4th, no questions asked."

Almost finally, the matter of Blue Sky. "I see no reason that KICKK and Blue Sky cannot even co-operate in some sectors then, alongside healthily respecting one another's boundaries. KICKK's next major investments are still bound up in Australia, and Oceania, as we create our a global hub of productivity, but I have no doubt that the mineral resources of East Africa, and our continued leading provision of security services will remain here in high demand.

I can reassure you as to the prospect of a deeply satisfying conduct by Kingfisher Security during any peacekeeping operations your government may undertake. Our personnel are highly experienced in what is an extremely complex environment, and we have plenty of contacts and strings to pull. If we make an agreement, and I only say if as I am confident on our side that we can form one, but it will be down to your prerogative, then you outline the operation, your requirements, and your constraints, and Kingfisher's East Africa Section will do what needs to be done. Indeed, the prospect of future peacekeeping, law enforcement, and stability-ensuring operational contracts I believe would be very appropriate and fitting for our service. I'll also reassure you that by financing Kingfisher, you won't just be replacing your people's body bags with our own, you'll be reducing in absolutes the amount of body bags even needed. Our forces are highly adapted to this environment, and Kingfisher specialises in making violence non-necessary, but applying it with extremity in terms of precision, effectiveness, and professionalism in a concise time frame should such a thing be needed." Lilly Cameron let out what was perhaps her most genuine smile yet.
"I apologise if I seem overexcited about that- I am just simply fully believe in Kingfisher, they've done a world of good in this part of the world, and I do wonder if you realise how much they can truly achieve."

"I trust that going forth then we can make an arrangement, and that in very due course a sufficient material agreement might be agreed upon as necessary if we cannot establish a unique legal contract between KICKK and Sud Afrika, bar that, I see no problems that would concern senior Corp."

Just before Tanya responded, Lilly's watch buzzed and she looked at it as a message came through. "I do apologise, but I would just like to inform you that KICKK's first asteroid mining mission has been successful, and they should be back by April." The other members of the KICKK delegation exchange lots of smiles and a few congratulatory words in excited tones before settling again to listen to the Sud Afrikan response- they had hopefully had enough time to consider and confer a response.

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Sun Nov 20, 2022 2:34 pm

North Beira, Tanganika, East Africa
March, 2120

The members of the South African team applauded politely, Valerian with more fervor than most. It was, after all, a momentous occasion. He spoke in febrile tones once the clamor had died down.

"See, Ms. Cameron, that sort of entrepreneurial attitude is exactly why we are confident KICKK and her subsidiaries stand only to flourish from a transfer of governance in East Africa. Business need not fear the state, if both are in accord on principles and outcomes. Less scrupulous partners I can certainly understand objecting to the imposition of the rule of law, but prosperity is the watchword of the Federation's policies, to a wit."

A few moments passed while the broadly smiling Blue Sky representative calmed down, and a sardonic grin ghosted across the face of his military liaison.

"We can talk later about the precise terms of a military services contract for Kingfisher's representatives in any future conflicts. That'll be a matter better done once we have specifics on the ground, and a legal framework in place for licensing and whatnot for your security branch. Not that I have any doubts that Kingfisher will pass those lenient standards with flying colors."

The general paused, considering, then apparently thought better of an editorial comment on the northern hemisphere. It was no secret, as evinced by debate in parliament in Sud Afrika, that the languid response of the polities of the world to the JumpDrive was much criticized by the Federation's constituents. Many had hoped that this innovation would lead the way to an era of new opportunities for mankind, but thus far only strictly commercial interests had seen any utility in the earthshaking advancement. The old and famous states of the more developed regions of the world seemed content to sit on their laurels and ignore the gathering spectres of climatic devastation and social unrest, suppressing the disorder with violence instead of solutions.

Still, perhaps that could be changed in time. Barely a quarter had passed since the unveiling of the innovation, after all, and federal states were notoriously moribund when it came to the analysis of policy. Sud Afrika had thrown billions into the Blue Sky infrastructure upscaling projects. With providence, other states would soon perceive that their future lay amongst the stars.

"It seems we have an accord, ladies, gentlemen." The typewriter stopped, and Valerian gestured forward another member of their entourage, who had a large case with him. With the click and clack of latches he opened it, drawing out a half dozen bottles of champagne.

With quirked eyebrow the representative of Blue Sky turned toward his host, and gestured.

"I don't suppose I could trouble you for some glasses for a toast?"

Breitbridge, Harare, East Africa
April, 2120

It was just before dawn, oh-four-hundred-hours, when the first armored columns crossed the border. They deployed from nearly a hundred miles back, near Pretoria, belying what state news media had termed annual preparedness drills - but the logistical skill of the Sud Afrikan Armed Forces was on display as they punched through border defenses of the ancient Zimbabwean regime with four more days of fuel to spare.

By the time the morning news cycle was beginning to gear up, secondary elements and airborne landings were already securing the areas around major supply routes at Salisbury, Maputo, and even Toamasina. Carefully curated demonstrations by agitators, paid and otherwise, flooded the streets near government halls across the region, some calling for peace negotiations, others demanding the dissolution of failing regimes. In some places they were joined by organic protests, food demonstrators and men and women fed up with the cost of living taking to the pavement to join the outpouring of anger. In others large counter-protests eventually formed, demanding the government stand and fight.

The goal had been to paralyze formal government responses, and that goal was largely successful - something which was owed, in no small part, to overtures to reformers in existing juntas who stood to benefit from a change in management, as well as Kingfisher Security's contractors pulling coverage at vital locations.

It wasn't all bloodless, unfortunately. Warlords in southern Tanganika fought street to street with elements of the Matabele Grenadiers in the slums of Vilankulos, and a naval landing at Nampula ran into a determined resistance from hastily assembled citizen protection committees. But where resistance stood firm the large, if untested, formations of Sud Afrikan soldiers and Blue Sky contractors flowed around them and left them to be negotiated down once things settled.

And settle things did. Within three weeks articles of integration had been approved by Federation parliamentarians at the bequest of the ruling party, and Swahar Province, Rhodes Province, and Zambique Province were joined to the Sud Afrikan state. Announcements about free elections, the distribution of food aid, and other prominent concerns of the everyman helped in some regards there - just a little.

Whether the new rulers of East Africa would be better or worse than the old remained to be seen, as did the reaction of the international community to this act of aggression barely disguised by political manuevering.

Sud Afrika uses the Major Action: Invasion against the neighboring region of East Africa

by **Ovstylap** » Sun Nov 20, 2022 5:55 pm

North Beira, Tanganika, East Africa
March, 2120

The South African team had politely applauded KICKK's success, with Valerian in particular being very happy. Over the next while, various verbal agreements were made, notes written, notes typed, and a broad consensus on various principles, operating procedures, desired outcomes, anticipated timelines, wanted payments and the like were discussed. Within an hour of the champagne glasses clinking- Lilly Cameron's own collection (which she usually reserved for fruit mocktails or some Compound One Craft Ale), some of the initial legal documents were already being negotiated.

By the time most of the South African dignitaries had left, there was an incredible flurry of activity and electronic correspondence between the various subsidiaries and variously deployed Kingfisher Security units, and between East Africa Branch and Senior Corp over in Australia. The closing week of March, and the first couple of days of April would be fraught with classified planning, and initiatives being put into place. Already lists were being drawn up- of divestments and investments to make, of possible targets, of layoffs of certain subcontractors, or legal documentation to be withdrawn from, of plans for integration with South Africa, of requests for particular items from Australia, or have personnel exchanges.

To those who did raise questions, the honest answer of a major internal rearrangement of East Africa Branch was given, in light of Senior Corp focusing on the new Space Race, and the new investments to be made following an incredibly lucrative asteroid mining trip which should soon come to fruition.

April, East Africa

In Maputo, Kingfisher Security mounted an experimental drill on how easy it would be to capture the main airport with the local security forces- in order to prevent any accidents, the local security forces that day were not issued live ammunition, at least in the immediate vicinity of the airport. At 0400 the operation began. At 0443, a Kingfisher senior operative informed the commander of the local security forces that there were few issues with the external threat, but that the possibility of an insider threat had not been adequately prepared for, before detaining him and his lieutenants. At 0457, Maputo Airport was handed over, without a shot fired, along with a 134 prisoners, to the South African airborne forces.

In Salisbury, Kingfisher forces secured a military base under the guise of delivering a major arms shipment to that location. These arms in fact were destined to equip South African security forces, which were to be established to enable the occupation- the arms had been secretly imported and transported by KICKK and its subcontractors to enable the operation. A total of five shots were fired. Three of these were warning shots. The other two were lethal at the armed resistance, each resulting in a fatality. Four of the five largest police stations were crippled by targeted power cuts, whilst several bridges were seized by Kingfisher forces.

One of the few warlords with much armour in the region found himself unable to act when several of his officers failed to answer any of their summons, and only half of his troops and supporting vehicles arrived- critically none of the fuel transports showed up. They were subsequently intimidated into surrender by the mere appearance of South African armour and airpower.

In two separate locations warlords gave some of their capital over to Kingfisher, which had the ordanance needed to blow up vital bridges. Instead, Kingfisher secured the bridges, and formally handed them over to South African officers as their vehicles rolled on by. The cash, diamonds, or other bribes given were accounted for and placed into KICKK's 'Transfer of Governance' fund, which would help cover the costs of enabling the change to the status quo.

A particular event which undoubtedly saved many lives occurred near the border of the Congo Basin. A number of warlords had coalesced in response to the South African invasion, and were assembling their available forces, and ultimately gathered several hundred combatants. Kingfisher's limited airborne assets were concentrated against the force, and after being buzzed by several drone flights, the combatants were intimidated by a display of devastating fire from a command attack helicopter which was controlling four semi-autonomous unmanned attack helicopters alongside it- with explosive 30mm cannon fire shredding a stretch of empty terrain for 200m- the nearby convoy realised the message, and surrendered to three vehicles with a total of ten Kingfisher Security Operatives, whilst the helicopters and droned ominously loomed.

George Msongle had departed East Africa on April 1st for a meeting in Madagascar with Lilly Cameron herself. On March 30th he had been told that if KICKK's contract with him (due to expire in November) could be annulled by the next day by him in secret, then he had the chance of renegotiating a cheaper contract which would last until December two years later.
He enjoyed an afternoon of golf, and a fine meal, before the next day having sharing a lot of information about the internal situation in Tanganika, under the impression that KICKK wanted a longer contract with him. Then, before being offered what amounted to ten years wages for a South African volunteer private, as well as a house in Oceania, George Msongle was informed that he was not going to be able to return to Tanganika, which was now going to be under the governance of Sud Afrika.

Outraged, he cursed and refused the betrayal, he had attempted to assault Lilly Cameron, and had managed to just about lay a finger on her before he was hit with a baton by one of the waiters, who had concealed it under the cloth he held over his arm. The waiter, a Kingfisher operative, removed Mr Msongle from the resort, and he was flown out to sea in a helicopter. There, he was asked again to reconsider his options, after he had been woken. He refused, saying he would never work with a 'white leech' again, and was thus thrown out of the helicopter into a huge patch of plastic-filled sea water from a few hundred metres.

Every man involved was an extremely trusted Kingfisher member, and Ms Cameron herself was particularly satisfied, as the man's tastes in his private affairs were particularly outrageous, though KICKK had kept this secret whilst it had been looking to find a way out of its existing contract- though they had resorted to simply filling his time as much as possible with burdens of governance and the like in order to keep him away, and had even secretly intervened and had him knocked out with drugs when he had been inclined to exercise his less ethical wants.

Kingfisher's own records indicated that they had sustained, with their subcontractors numbers in brackets:
19 (45) KIA
10 (19) Seriously Wounded in Action
28 (75) Wounded in Action
7 (21) No longer seeking operational duties following Action

Whilst having inflicted:
753 fatal casualties
105 enemy wounded, but not detained.
2439 captured or detained, including 405 wounded.

Further having co-operated in joint operations causing a further:
1593 casualties.

Several airports, supply hubs, depots, ports, bridges, and railway terminals, as well as a fuel refinery, two gold mines, a diamond mine, and several major farms were captured intact with Kingfisher assistance in one form or another.

The first government to endorse South Africa's move was the Australasian Emergency Government, which had commended the 'humanitarian peacekeeping operation,' 'expansion of law and order,' and 'vital role of Kingfisher Security' in enabling a swift transition and consolidation of power.

NO ACTIONS TAKEN

by **Ralnis** » Fri Nov 25, 2022 12:54 pm

Neo Dallas-UNSA

The newly minted capital of the United New States of America was a mess. From the Tejas Project there was a misuse of resources and over incompetence that was not needed in these dire times. With America being divided and destroyed like this, Congress was needed to try and save what they can. Save what they can and then seek to unite what didn't want to be saved. First, with the help of ARC, the food crisis needed to be put under wraps. Famine was declared and Congress got to work.

by **G-Tech Corporation** » Sat Nov 26, 2022 8:52 am

The Struggle Continues! - April 2120

Solidarity, comrades. I greet you from the headquarters of the united striving against globalism, from our hidden location. The fact that you have tunneled into this broadcast means you thirst, like your brothers and sisters around the world, for freedom from the corporatist and fascist oppressors. Today we update you on the news of the struggle, to give strength to your hands and hate to your hearts.

Sovereign communes in the Outlands region of Montefaune have sent word to our agents that they strive for freedom from the autocratic hands of the Planetary Union, and have asked their cause to be shared widely amongst the nations of the world to bring international pressure against the extrasolar statists. Attempts by the Union jackboots to reign in wildcat mining along the Outlands Serendian Ridge have been met with violent force, causing the workers of the oppressed colonists classes to dream of freedom. We will keep you up to date on this ongoing conflict!
[-2 Public Opinion in Montefaune]

A return of investor confidence comes in Dixie with the proclamation of the United New States of America, supplanting the old Tejas movement; despite the instability wracking the region, stakeholders seem confident that the emergence of this local power will improve conditions for doing business immensely, and private citizens are flocking to purchase bonds in the new state. Truly the deception of the masses is a terrible thing to behold, and we urge all our brothers to work to undo this opiate of the people!
[Raise Bonds and Solicit Investors both produce +2 Capital this month]

In the Horn of Africa unexpected bumper crops have been seen due to idiosyncratic interactions of typhoons in the Indian Ocean; for the first time in decades local production is beginning to be exported, and may feed the hungry mouths of the world. We caution those who rejoice at this development though- the proceeds of these sales will no doubt enrich local warlords, and it would be best if the enlightened citizens of humanity look to their own mouths instead of funding the terror squads of the Naquib of Mogadishu or any other monsters.
[4 Food is being sold from the Horn of Africa; rates negotiable]

Finishing our news roundup, unconfirmed reports of government consolidation in the Provisional Australian State of Canberra have now been verified by local news sources; it appears that infighting in the provincial region has been ended with a new integration accord and payoffs for fighters, and this new state may be looking for suppliers in the coming months. For now, the most pertinent development is, as expected, the new warlords have bolstered their military formidably to extend their reach across the continent; such is to be expected of any oppressor who looks first to their own security from the people instead of their duty to those people!
[2 Battalions added to Local Government in Australia; actions ongoing]

by **Diarcesia** » Sun Nov 27, 2022 11:39 am

The Planetary Union of Montefaune - The Outlands
May, 2120

Excerpt of a pamphlet distributed by the Outlander sovereign communes to the Union's sanctioned miners

In the name of the people, we call upon you to leave our lands in peace. We will not allow the Union to plunder our resources and enslave us for their avarice! Leave now, or we will stand our ground to our last!

May we never forget what our forefathers died for! May we never forget why our mothers gave birth to us! May this planet continue to stand strong against the evil forces of corporatism and fascism which seek to destroy it from within. Let us live free or we will die trying!

We are those who remember the true roots of why we settle this land of promise! No gods! No masters!

Planetary Union Headquarters - Porto Alexandria Colony

After receiving news of unrest beyond the Union's area of effective control, a select group of high-ranking members discuss plans to coordinate their options regarding the sovereign communes throughout the Outlands. In the interest of transparency, each members' monologues were broadcasted for recordkeeping, a practice that came with the first settlers in the planet.

President Veronique Leduc: "We can't let this situation go on forever. First of all, we must be prudent with our options. Based on the pamphlets we received, they merely want our personnel to stay out of their work areas. I agree with Commissioner Ndabezitha that we can negotiate with them, but this can set a dangerous precedent that could end up in our throats one day if we give them too much power."

Commissioner J.R. Bishop: "'We are those who remember the true roots of why we settle this land of promise...', don't we remember that too, as well? I am willing to risk it and place a certain level of trust to these communities. We can hear them out and explore if we can find a sustainable and mutually-beneficial arrangement. There is little difference with them and how our present Colonies were built."

Monthly Action - Major: Taxation

Stats
Population: 15 + 1 (New Month) = 16
Battalions: 0
Capital: 0 - 1 (Independent Localism) + 5 (Taxation - Region) + 15 (Taxation - Population) - 4 (Taxation - Independent Localism) = 15
Hunger: 4 + 15 (New Month) - 3 (Independent Localism) = 16
Public Opinion: 20 - 4 (Accumulated Hunger) - 2 (The Struggle Continues!) - 2 (Taxation) + 5 (Extrasolar Power) = 17 
Innovation: 2

Effect: Extrasolar Power
;Until: December 2130
;Public opinion per Month: +5
;Food Aid efficacy multiplier: x2

Effect: Independent Localism
;Hunger per Month: -3
;Capital per Month: -1
;Taxation Income Change: -4 Capital

Corporate Cosmos [IC | Closed]

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