As the lights start to brighten in the MGNN Studio, the nautolan behind the desk starts speaking:

- "Welcome to MGNN, I am Keto Krall reporting on some breaking news. It has come to attention, that there have been some major changes to the personnel at TMSI: it seems that some key figures have decided to leave TMSI. We will be heading to our reporter on the ground to find out what is going on.."

As the news desk fades away, a female reporter stands waiting to talk. Behind her, are a lot of personnel wearing TMSI uniforms.

- "Hi, this is Kat Yendo reporting form one of TMSI's shipyards above Malduiphin. It has come to our attention that TMSI Operations Director Amon Nublar, and former Operations Director John Green have decided to leave TMSI.

I managed to speak to John Green a few minutes ago, and asked him about his decision to leave. He stated that for a long time, he has been deciding to start his own faction, and he finally got things organized to do so. He also said, that he enjoyed his time with TMSI, but feels it is time to move on.

We were also able to get a comment from Amon Nublar, and this is what he said.."

- "Yes, I am officially stepping down as Director, and am leaving TMSI. I have been involved in a movement to begin a new faction, and our time is finally here. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here at TMSI, and I'd like to take this moment to say to everyone how wonderful it has been to be a part of such a great company"

- "From what we have been told, it seems that Amon Nublar will be joining John Green in his new gaction. It has also come to light that the Director of Logistics, Aldwar Fisher has also decided to leave and join them. Unfortunately, we were unable to get a comment from him, but it has been confirmed, that he is leaving."

- "You may be asking, who will be replacing them? Well, we spoke to Gadon Trammer, the Chairman of TMSI. Here is what he had to say.."

- "Yes, I can confirm that they have left to start a new medical faction. I would also like to say that Chief Overseer Sahin Ka, Naval Lieutenant Gaara Sand and Commander Jason Burner have decided to leave to do new things.

As for their replacements, Deputy Director Andy Quick has been promoted to Director of Operations, and will take over the running of Operations. Also, Chief Overseer James Elrob has joined us from the Tion Hegemony, to assist him in our Tion Cluster Operations. For Logistics, Director Andy Quick and our Security Director Taranae Rhode will be running Logistics between them, until Director Rhode is able take up the role of running the Logistics Department.

On the Operations side of things, Overseer Joe Strik has been promoted to TSDS Deputy Head of Operations, and Chief Engineer Stu Munhah has been promoted to TC Deputy Head of Operations."

On the Logistics side of things, Naval Captain Toby-Oldin Lane has been promoted to Task Force One Supervisor, and Ensign Jordan Knight has been promoted to Task Force Two Supervisor."

- "I then asked Chairman Gadon Trammer, if this will affect TMSI in any way, with so many new personnel taking up new roles. His reply was.."

- "All these personnel have been working hard in their departments, and understand what is expected of them. I have the utmost faith in them to carry on where the others have finished. This will not affect the running of TMSI in any way, and we look forward to another prosperous era in TMSI."

- "Well, there you have it, a load of changes, but TMSI have already placed personnel into the job roles, and from what has been said and from personnel around here, it seems that TMSI will be carrying on into the future as if nothing has changed. This is Kat Yendo reporting for MGNN, back to you at the studio."

The Adverts fade away and the screen returns to Joshua Treadwell, reporting for Malduiphin Galactic News Network. Hi and welcome back to the Malduiphin Marauders end of season bash. As you can see - as the camera scans around the room - the party is still in full swing. As the camera scans back to Joshua, he is stood there with the team's coach, Andy Quick.

- I'm stood here with the team's coach. First of all, thank you for spending some time to answer some questions.

- That's fine, anything for our fans out there.

- What made you decide to become a Shockball player?

- Well, when Gadon - the owner and leader of TMSI - mentioned he was going to start up a Shockball team, I jumped at the chance. As I feel, it's a good way for the faction members to bond together by working as a team. Also at my age, I need all the fitness I can get, haha...

- How do you think the team's first season went?

- As the whole team is new to this, I believe it went well. We might not won many games, but we have noticed where everyone's strengths and weaknesses are, and have adapted our training to improve our game play ready for the next season.

- All us fans out there noticed you started as captain, and half way through the season you replaced Gunn Starfall as coach. How did that feel?

- I was delighted to be given the chance to captain the team. It is an honour to lead the players onto the field every week in front of our fans, and then to be given the chance to coach them. Well, I was surprised at first, as the whole team felt that we had a great coach in Gunn. But, unfortunately with his workload at TMSI and helping with some changes at Tion, he was finding hard to coach the team as well, and he felt it better to just concentrate as a player, which has turned out good, as he is our best guard in the team.

- What can we expect for the next season?

- Our fans will be happy to see at lot more wins, as we have gone through a severe training program over the last few weeks, and that will continue through to the start of the next season. Hopefully, we will be up there at the top fighting for promotion.

- What sort of tactics will you be playing so you are able to do this?

- Ahh, now all I can say is we will be trying improved tactics to assist in our push for promotion, but that's as much as I would say. I don't want to give the game away.

- Thank you for taking the time out to answer some questions, and good luck to the team in your next season. Now we must return to the studio for some breaking news, and we will be back here at the party soon for some more interviews. This is Joshua Treadwell reporting from New Haven back to you. At the studio, as the camera fades away it returns to the MGNN news desk, where a Nautolan is sat with the words "breaking news" flashing behind him....

Here we are at New Haven on the Planet Malduiphin, I'm Joshua Treadwell reporting for Malduiphin Galactic News Network. As you can see behind me, we're at the end of Season bash for the local Team, Malduiphin Marauders. Looking around at the crowds as the camera scans around the room, you would think they won. I believe these Celebrations will go through the night. Ahh hang on, yes I have just spotted the team captain, Taranae Rhode. I will see if she will be willing to answer some questions.

- Hi, I'm Joshua Treadwell reporting for Malduiphin Galactic News Network. Will you answer some questions for your fans out there?

- Sure, fire away.

- What made you decide to become a shockball player?

- First and foremost, I believe the comradeship and integrity formed whilst playing in team environment would add to my efficiency to work as part of a team. And secondly I suppose a little fame hihi.

- How do you think the teams first season went?

- Hmm difficult one.... It went ok as first seasons go. I think we had some bad luck following us as we went along and gained some tough ties with good teams but we pulled through the season more experienced and knowledgeable than at first, so here's hoping for season 2.

- All us Fans out there noticed you became captain half way through the season. How did that feel?

- It felt both wrong and right because of the circumstances invloved in that change of leadership. Yes, I was thrilled to have been offered the position but I also felt sad that Gunn had stepped down as coach meaning Andy Quick had to step into the coach role leaving the captaincy open for me . Gunn did well during his time and Andy has carried on where he left off - the Marauders continuing to go from strength to strength

- What can we expect for the next season?

- Aha, the question on everyone's lips, huh? Well all the team are working out and training their butts off as we speak, so we're looking at a stronger, more experienced and hardened team than we had in last season so we're hoping to tough it out at the top of the league with the best they can throw at us. Who knows, maybe we can even work on promotion!

- What will you be doing to improve things next season?

- Well me and the coach will be talking tactics and reviewing our played matches in the hopes of finding some chinks in the opposition's armour that maybe we can penetrate to help us attack and defend against them better - and score those ever elusive goals we need. We will have set training routines and as our skills continue to grow so will our reputation - hopefully the opposition will learn to fear matches against us.....

- Now if you don't mind I would like to get back to the celebrations, before Joe and Toby finish off all the drinks.

The camera moves away from Taranae and points at Joshua. Well, there you have it fans, the team is in high spirits and looking forward to the next season. Its time to go for a break, but hopefully when I come back I will try and get some questions answered by the Team owner, Gadon Trammer.. So this is Joshua Treadwell reporting from New Haven. The screen fades out and starts to show the Adverts.

The news is coming on in a few. You've sat all of the family down to a good dinner and you're all enjoying your nuna fillets marinated in aluedroop berries and Mald spices and herbs over a bed of grains and leafy greens. The weather has passed and you now know that New Haven is expecting some rain tomorrow afternoon on through the following morning. The crime rate is down and there is still talk of providing a more robust law enforcement group for Malduiphin. Talks are ongoing and a proposal should be ready to present to Chairman Trammer before too long.

Ryn Heljyc now turns your attention directly to TMSI, transitioning in from the last quip about TMSI's leadership. "In a more direct turn of events, the leadership of TMSI has transitioned once again. A change in the demands has required a change in the organization of the personnel, but also provided for some interesting turns in the hierarchy. With the new tasking of becoming the sole manager for the Tion Hegemony's shipyards, TMSI has implemented a new branch of Operations, the Tion Cluster, or the TC Division. This branch is being run by the recently promoted Chief Overseer Sahin Ka."

"The next step in the line is for the newly appointed Deputy Director of Operations, Deputy Director Andy Quick. He also heads the newly formed and expanded Trax Sector and Desevro System, or TSDS, Division. As it sounds, this encompasses the operations in the Trax Sector, which includes the Jhensrus System and the Uogo'cor System, as well as the Desevro System of the Tion Cluster. A pretty wide-spread division to take care of, but I understand he is very much up to the task."

"Now, as a couple of you may wonder, as well as I did for a little bit, where is that sullustan that was wreaking havoc across our planet only months ago? Well, he is now Director Amon Nublar, Director of Operations for TMSI. Apparently he jaunts back and forth between divisions, sometimes carrying loads of cargo, sometimes carrying only himself and passengers. The last broadcast that Miss Talina Maider recorded was from aboard the vessel he was captaining at the time."

"Now, the division heads may be good leaders, but we all know that they could not accomplish their tasks without the help of some key personnel within their ranks. Fleshing out the leadership of the TC Division are; Assistant Overseer John Green, and yes folks, we are wondering if it is the same John Green that was previously the Director of Operations; Chief Engineer Nhur Ord, another sullustan within the leadership; Apprentice Seriphos Wedge; and Apprentice Stu Munhah. Filling out the TSDS Division of Operations, and understandably slightly larger, are; Assistant Overseer Balah Dhure, Assistant Overseer Joe Strik, Assistant Overseer Toby-Oldin Lane, Engineer Esvan Kynnovan, and Apprentice Daemon Larusso."

"Currently we are trying to arrange some personal interviews not only with the division heads, but with their key personnel, also. It has been a little difficult since Miss Maider travels a lot with the Director, but even more so since the unexpected disappearance of our own beloved Samuel Smythe. We have been combing the stations, vessels, and cities in an effort to establish where he may have gone, but to no avail so far. Do not lose hope, though. We will find out what has happened to him, and hopefully recover him safe and sound."

Well, there is our current breakdown of the upper tier of the Operations group, and we hope that you keep Sam in your prayers these nights until we find him. For MGNN, this is Ryn Heljyc signing off."

Talina Maider sits in your vidscreen, obviously aboard a vessel in space. Through the viewport behind her, you can see shipyards in the background. The camera pulls back some, and you realize she is on the bridge of a large transport, probably a bulk freighter. She's wearing a set of TMSI coveralls. A couple of pilots are at the controls of the ship, and sitting in the captain's chair is that sullustan again.

"This is Talina Maider, for the expanding MGNN services. I am bringing to you another special report regarding the expansion of TMSI. The benefits of aligning with the Tion Hegemony continue to grow as we now witness. I am here in the Lianna System to see firsthand the next step for TMSI. As a gesture of trust to the company, the Tion Hegemony has asked TMSI to begin handling all of its ship production. Mostly based here in the Lianna System, ship production will be the primary tasking of the newly evolved Tion Cluster Division of the Department of Operations."

"The TC Division is now being headed by Chief Overseer Sahin Ka. The Geonosian has progressed within TMSI quite well. Being ambitious and well organized, he has accomplished much in whichever position he has been assigned. Here, he has much to account for. TMSI has been tasked with the control of I believe the count is up to fourteen of the Tion Hegemony's shipyards. I am not privileged to know, nor could I speak of it if I did," with this, you catch the sullustan glance at the bothan, "what these shipyards have been tasked to build."

"It is obvious, however, that whatever it is, there is a rush on it." Talina gets up and begins to wander toward a door on the bridge. The camera snaps to Talina standing in the dock area. The place is a mass of activity. Droids and sentients of all races are moving containers of materials off of the vessel. The vast size of the cargo hold is overwhelming. It is obvious that this vessel can haul a very large quantity of cargo. Talina walks into the area, remaining safely out of the way of the work flow.

"As you can see, this is a large operation here. TMSI is in communication with Tion regarding establishing a small base of operations for its personnel here. Otherwise, the closest place to call home for these personnel would be the Desevro System. While not far, it is still not operationally efficient for those in charge of the shipyards here. As I said, Chief Overseer Sahin Ka is leading the team here. His staff consists of Assistant Overseer John Green, Chief Engineer Nhur Ord, Apprentice Seriphos Wedge, and Apprentice Stu Munhah."

"Not only have they been tasked with the production of the shipyards, but with several of the factories as well. Though the tasking for these facilities is not known at this point, you can rest assured they will not be quiet for long. You can see behind me some of the materials being moved now. They are being loaded onto one of the shipyards in preparation for production. As I understand it, this vessel can haul everything needed in one trip. I also know that currently in the area, Overseer Ka is using the bulk freighter he is captaining as the local base of operations, while still using it to its full capacity as well."

"If TMSI does establish a permanent base of operations here, it is unclear as to whether or not this could mean future jobs for more Malduiphins, or whether the jobs will go to locals. TMSI has been, in the past, known to recruit Malduiphin residents for off-world projects such as this. This time, however, the system in question is already well populated. Speculations have been made that if a new base is established on a fairly unpopulated surface, such as several of the moons in the Lianna System, that residents of Malduiphin may have a shot at it, but if it is on an already established planet, that the jobs may go to the inhabitants of that planet. Only time will tell, I guess."

"This is Talina Maider for Malduiphin Galactic News Network, signing off for this broadcast. Stay tuned for more updates." Your vidscreen goes black and fades into a recruitment message for the Tion Hegemony's military forces. It appears that this story could be extremely interesting as time goes on. Already the expansion into the Desevro System and a great deal of jobs provided there. Now TMSI has the tasking from the Tion Hegemony of production in their shipyards in Lianna, and their factories as well. A great deal of jobs could be available to the residents of Malduiphin, for those that are willing to pack it up and leave here. Hmmm, food for thought.

Ryn Heljyc has just finished giving a report on some hoodlums caught vandalizing the mine in Celestus when the news turns a little more serious. This is the report you have been waiting for. They've been baiting you with leads like "The Tion takeover" and "What has TMSI done for you lately?" Crossed banners of TMSI and the Tion Hegemony are set in the background. An image of a bothan and a sullustan also appear in a small square over Ryn's left shoulder. Not sure what that's all about. Ryn looks into the camera and says, "On the expansion front for TMSI, it appears that the alliance with the Tion Hegemony has thus far been quite beneficial. Recent reports show that the people of the planet Desevro ceded control to TMSI, and the planet Undine followed suit shortly after."

"What this means for TMSI is that they have gained control of the Desevro System in the Tion cluster. While they are still setting up shop, it is more than apparent that things are coming along quickly. Part of this translates to better profits for TMSI, which means better benefits and pay for those employed by them, as many of Madluiphin's residents are. We sent a representative along with the Head of Desevro Operations. Talina Maider went along for the ride with then Acting Director Amon Nublar to set up shop on Undine. We go now to her report of the events."

The image of the sullustan and the bothan grow to fill the screen. The image then pops over to the female bothan Talina Maider. She is sitting in what can be gathered to be a makeshift studio, but still well set up. "Greetings to the beings of the TMSI worlds. This is Talina Maider bringing to you a special report on the expansion of Tion Mil/Sci Industries. As many of you know, some time ago TMSI, or then, Frost Shipyards, decided to align with the Tion Hegemony. While this was not openly welcomed by the people of Malduiphin, they did trust in their leadership and have watched to see what this could possibly bring."

"What it has brought is a prosperous outcome. As TMSI has grown, so has Malduiphin. The Tion Hegemony invited TMSI to come to the Desevro system" an image of a two-planet system comes up. One planet green and blue and looking quite hospitable, the other brown and reddish colored. Talina continues speaking, "and establish Operations here in the Tion Cluster. The first thing TMSI did was to hire a large group of individuals to basically act as prospectors and establish a city or two of prior Malduiphins. They did just that. The first set up was residential structures to give them their own living space while good working environments were brought together. Inherently, some set up their own facilities, some bars, restaurants, etc."

"These first facilities were handled personally by the Chairman Gadon Trammer. His Head of Desevro Operations, Acting Director Amon Nublar and Assistant Overseer Joe Strik have picked up on their end as well. I sit now in a facility on Undine", an image of Undine comes up, as well as some stats about the planet. It is a moderate sized planet, but mostly desolate. It has a toxic, unbreathable atmosphere and the cities are contained in protective dome structures. Talina continues on her explanation, "in the city of Am Shere, where we have temporarily established an office for broadcasting. We are in negotiations now to move to the more pleasant planet Desevro." The image of Undine fades into an image of Desevro, the green and blue planet. It looks not only hospitable, but downright resort-like. A temperate, breathable atmosphere and moderate temperatures year-round invite any to come and lounge here to get away. It is only slightly smaller than Undine. The image fades back into the brown and reddish ball. "The city Am Shere seems to be turning into the capital city of Undine, next to TMSI City. It also is to house the only research facility of TMSI, which is currently under construction."

"Currently, I have picked up on discussions that lead me to believe that TMSI may move their center of Operations, possibly even their High Command, here to Desevro. I cannot receive confirmation on that because, while very accommodating, now Director Amon Nublar is not very talkative about such things. He does assure me, however, that if it were to transpire, they would continue their primary production in Malduiphin. He has explained that such a move would neither be cost-effective nor complimentary to the wonderful people of Malduiphin that have played host to TMSI for so long. During the transitions picking up materials and builders, I have had the chance to speak with him and receive insight on the how-tos and whys of Operations. Those will come out in a later report, as I still have a little information to gather, so tune back in for that later."

As the official word has spread throughout Malduiphin and the rest of TMSI controlled territories, a scheduled official farewell to former Vice-President Shane Darman has been set for a couple of days.

Ryn Heljyc comes into view, a solemn look upon his face. It almost looks practiced, as his eyes are not relaying the same message his face is. The background vid is showing an ever-more familiar New Haven Headquarters of TMSI, but this time in the vast docking bay. A red carpet is laid out from a blast door to the audiences left, right up the loading ramp of a JV-7. A podium is set on the other side of the red carpet, facing the audience's seats. Several seats are behind the podium with some familiar sentients there, as well, standing at attention. The sullustan, Amon Nublar, the human, Andy Quick, the human distillery, Aldwar Fisher, another human not quite familiar to you, and a new and lovely face to MGNN, a redheaded human female.

"This is Ryn Heljyc of MGNN, coming to you from New Haven. Sad news has crossed the planet in these turbulent times for TMSI. The former Vice-President Shane Darman has been lost to us. Chairman Gadon Trammer of TMSI himself has set forth to relay this coming message to the people of Malduiphin, and the people of TMSI." The background video fades in to fill the view.

As Chairman Gadon Trammer comes into view on your vid, he approaches the podium, obviously honestly stricken by the events transpiring. The sentients behind him seat themselves as the Chairman of TMSI begins. "Ladies and gentlemen of all TMSI territories, it is with great sadness that I must relay to you the following information. We must officially declare Vice-President Shane Darman as lost to us. Negotiations with the Eidola have failed. Their unrelenting and unrealistic demands could not be met, waivered, or altered. You have my sincerest apologies as the first broadcast that includes our new territories in Uogo'cor, Desevro, and the Lianna systems is one of pain and sorrow. Mr. Darman contributed a great deal to this company, and his presence will be sorely missed."

"To our new recruits, you will never know Mr. Darman, but you will know some of his methods and practices as you serve within the greatness that is TMSI." You can see a resolve set into the Chairman as he continues. "We of TMSI will miss Mr. Darman, but we will not be crushed! We will forge on, continuing our company to greater endeavors, while maintaining the ethics and quality that we are known for. Our resolve will win out. We will remember Mr. Darman, but we will not let the Eidola's actions weaken us."

"It is in these times, these most turbulent times that many things happen. We do not always know the reasons, but we must act upon those that we can affect, and let go the ones we cannot. President Gunn Starfall will be returning," as the Chairman indicates the unfamiliar human, who nods. "He will be retaking his previous post as Second-in-Command of TMSI. In these crazy times we have also recently lost the previous Director of Logistics, John Green to another company. In his place will be Acting Director of Operations Amon Nublar, and Assistant Director Andy Quick. Director-Admiral Aldwar Fisher and Director-Marshal Taranae Rhode," the Chairman indicates the lovely woman amidst the officers, "have both stayed their posts loyally and effectively as Head of Logistics and Head of Security, respectively."

"I personally thought it only fitting that the Command of TMSI should be allowed to be here today to honor the passing of a comrade, and a friend." And with that statement, a slow dirge begins to play in the background. The Command of TMSI stands to attention. Several sentients in crisp TMSI uniforms surround a coffin draped with a TMSI flag, pall-bearers as they walk slowly, in step, there are six. As they enter the docking bay, the Command of TMSI salutes. They walk down the red carpet, past the saluting officers, and up the ramp into the JV-7.

The Command of TMSI ends their salute. Chairman Gadon Trammer follows the coffin and the pall-bearers into the JV-7. The six pall-bearers walk back down the ramp, the last two grabbing the ends of the red carpet ceremoniously, pulling it down and off of the ramp. The JV-7's repulsors lift it gently from the floor and nudge it out of the docking bay. Once the ship has exited, the sublight engines kick in and the shuttle takes flight, heading towards the depths of space.

Ryn Heljyc's voice comes across your speakers, "Talina Maider is on-site with the camera crew. Talina, I don't understand. Where is the Chairman going?" Talina Maider's voice now comes through, "A tradition of naval fleets was to set their comrades' bodies into space, where their hearts always are. A true space-farer loves its depths so much that it is to be their final resting place. In that tradition, Chairman Trammer will eject the representative coffin adrift into space in a traditional gesture." Ryn's voice comes through again, "Ladies and gentlemen of TMSI territories, this is Ryn Heljyc for MGNN on this sorrowful day, saying farewell."

The vid goes black, and stays that way for an extended period of time, before finally going into a recruitment commercial for TMSI.

During the normal course of your day, you have spied an advert for a piece by Talina Maider for MGNN. Curiosity has prompted you t flip your vid on to catch it. It looked like another simple piece, a follow-up on the.. did that Trandoshan just shove Talina? Wow, this could be good. You grab your snack of volcano-hot nerf-wings and jui-ale and park in front of the vid.

That cute little ‘caster Talina Maider is on with her melodic voice. She's sitting at a black table in front of a blank sky-blue wall. "We were fortunate enough to be able to get a couple of questions in after the ceremony yesterday at TMSI's New Haven Headquarters. We know that TMSI employs approximately 2,000 personnel, and I had the chance to meet a couple of them and speak. Trandoshans are not known to be the most friendly across the universe, so understand my encounter you are about to watch."

The camera slides a little to the right as the wall above Talina's left shoulder comes to life with images of her leaving the press-box of the auditorium. She steps into the hall and you watch as she hail's a Trandoshan walking out of the auditorium doors. He is just one among the crowd of beings exiting the auditorium, but he really does stand out. Talina approaches him, almost cutting off his path and queries "May I have a word with you?" The Trandoshan looks at her impatiently, almost as if he's sizing her up as an opponent, and then dismisses the notion. "Yes, I prefer that it just be a word you have to say. That way I can keep moving."

"What is your name and where are you assigned, if I may ask?" Talina asks.

The Trandoshan looks at her in almost disgust, "That's more than one word. My name is Gaara Sand." Talina looks at him and pursues her questioning, "How long have you been working for TMSI?" Gaara barely even acknowledges that it is this puny little bothan thing speaking to him, "I don't know, is that really important?"

Talina goes for another, though you can see her face reflecting impatience with the fact that this individual is so abrupt. "Was TMSI your first employer?" There are so many beings moving past during the interview, but you catch glimpses of things that don't register right away. Gaara regards her, "Yes, TMSI was my first employer, and my third. I went to work for a friend for a while to help him out, but it didn't work out so well. I decided to come back and be part of something active again and came back to TMSI."

Talina proceeds after the sudden stop of words from Gaara, "What is your take on the expansion of TMSI into three more systems?" Wow, wait! Was that a glint of Mandalorian armor that just walked by? And somewhere in that crowd now you can pick out a Jedi robe. Gaara again looks at Talina in disgust and replies, "Hopefully, no matter how big it gets you won't be in its location." Unabated, Talina presses on with her questions, "Do you think that TMSI has the manpower to cover all four systems logistically and securely?" Without missing a beat, and with a twisted smirk Gaara replies, "I guess not because you're in here hassling me. Someone should have shot you down or escorted you out!"

Again, Talina brushes off the harsh response and rolls on without pause, "Do you believe that TMSI will keep their hold here on Malduiphin?" Gaara starts looking more impatient, obviously being held up by this insignificant being from matters he deems more important. "Yes … now tell me that's it." Realizing that she's losing him, she spouts out "What are your thoughts about the fate of Shane Darman?"

For the first time, this Trandoshan grins a little, "Shane Darman … he he… he had it coming if you ask me. His smart mouth finally got him." The smile drops as quick as it had surfaced. "Now get out of my way" the Trandoshan barks at Talina as he shoves her out of his way and proceeds down the hall.

Talina starts to turn back toward the camera and says "We were obviously keeping him from something important." As a Geonosian exits the auditorium with a set of twin Twi'leks on his arms, Talina smiles and jumps on it. Again she pipes in with "May I ask you a couple of questions?" The Geonosian looks a little edgy. You could almost swear that he's trying to hide his wings, but he does actually look pretty good in his TMSI uniform, and the Twi'leks… wow! "Err, I don't think I have time for this, "the Geonosian replies, who was smiling up to that point. Talina, undaunted as ever strikes on, "Good, so I'll keep this brief." Having seen Talina in action, you know she's lying about that. "What is your name and where are you assigned, if I may ask?"

The Geonosian puffs a little with some pride and replies, "I am Assistant Overseer Sahin Ka and I am assigned as the Head of Lianna Division of Operations." Talina grins and says "Wow, looks like we got someone of importance. How long have you been working for TMSI?" The Geonosian looks at her almost as if he's taken aback and says, "We celebrated my 6th month four days ago. You must have seen it!" Talina smiles almost innocently at Sahin and says "I'm sorry, I missed that one. Was TMSI your first employer?"

Sahin looks squarely at Talina, and in almost a reverent tone replies "Yes. They have taught me everything I know. If TMSI didn't exist, I would still be on Geonosis manufacturing ugly little droid heads, guided by the whip." You see Talina look… uneasy? No, not her. She almost jumps to another subject. "What is your take on the expansion of TMSI into four other systems?" Sahin, still looking serious, though obviously changing track as fast as Talina, "It happened so fast, but I know High Command knows what we are doing. I get paid for this, so I will do my part the best I can."

Talina continues on, though it is obvious that the Twi'leks are already growing impatient with this. Smiles have faded and stances are edgy. They are not, however, showing any signs of leaving their Geonosian escort. The number of people shuffling past has dwindled down to nothing more than the occasional passer-by. "Mr. Ka, do you think that TMSI has the manpower to cover all four systems logistically and securely?"

Apparently taking some humor now with the questioning, and trying to lighten the mood, Sahin whips an arm out, flexes the muscle and looks at Talina and asks "Do you doubt that?" Talina smiles, as well do the girls that Sahin is escorting. With a smile still on her face, Talina asks him "Do you believe that TMSI will keep their hold here on Malduiphin?" Still with a slight smile upon his face, but a solemnity that tugs at something inside you as you watch, Sahin replies "I hope so. It has the disadvantage of being far from the core, but we owe a lot to Malduiphin. There's a responsibility, a duty now that we need to fulfill."

Finally Talina gets to the question she's really digging for, "What are your thoughts about the fate of Shane Darman?" Sahin looks at her with an almost querying gaze and says "I didn't know him well, and never saw him much, but it is always bad to see one of us dead." At this, Talina looks a little taken aback. She pops out the next question "So, you expect that either the negotiations won't work or that the Eidola have already killed him, so you've written him off for dead? Do you think that many others share your same opinion?"

Looking a little put on the spot, Sahin recomposes himself and states "If you take into consideration that TMSI is a growing faction, a ransom paid for him could possibly slow us down significantly, or worse, devastate the economy as it is to not only TMSI, but Malduiphin as well. I think Shane wouldn't want this to happen, either. Besides, we don't really know whether he is alive or not, whether they say so or not. They are pirates. How can we possibly trust them? I think that most here do not want us to cooperate with them."

Talina looks like she is enjoying this, and that the answer is what she was thinking. She looks at Sahin, smiles, and changes gears on him again with "And may I ask why the twin Twi'lek escort? Is that in celebration of your tenure, as well?" This brings a smile to Sahin's face, and he responds, "I've been in Uogo'cor. When you're away for a long time and then come home, you know you need a companion to help you get rid of your fatigue. And in my case, two." His smile gets huge with the last statement. "He lets go of one of the Twi'leks and reaches into a pocket. "What did you expect? I've been riding around in this ugly bilk freighter for a month and only female beings I interact with were scurvy builders." He pulls out a datachip and hands it to Talina. "Leemi has a sister," he says in a whisper and winks at Talina.

Talina receives the chip, with a slightly stunned look, but catches herself and retorts, "Thanks, but I prefer males." Sahin carries a contented look and says, "Well, I really have spent too much time and have many things to do. Good luck with your reporting." He turns and walks off down the corridors with Twi'leks on arm, sauntering and speaking cheerfully to his companions. The camera shifts back to the current view, and you see Talina sitting, having watched this all with you. She turns to look at the camera.

"As you have seen, TMSI employs a variety of individuals, and personalities." The vid in the background is still running, the volume off so you can hear the ‘current' Talina speaking. A few stragglers walk down the corridors, but no more in uniform so Talina had no more targets after Sahin. Her figure is still talking to the camera as she gives her sign-off. "While some are brutish and abrupt, some are helpful and sincere. But they are all, apparently, very competent in what they do."

"To the people of Malduiphin, I say that this enlightening little after-affair just proves that the TMSI interests will always coincide with the best interests of Malduiphin. This is Talina Maider and I hope you've enjoyed this as much as I did. From MGNN, have a good evening." The view fades from Talina into the latest recruitment ad for TMSI. You are wondering when the next little piece from inside TMSI will come out when you realize, Talina didn't give that chip back to the Geonoisan…

It is, for a change, a wintery day outside. Many good things have come from having Tion Military and Science Industries on the world of Malduiphin. They have managed the population well, and it shows. Today, though bleary and blustery outside, within the halls of TMSI HQ in New Haven, it is a time of reflection and celebration. TMSI is holding a Change of Command ceremony today, and MGNN is there to cover the event.

The Change of Command has been scheduled for a few weeks now, so the event has been advertised across all of Malduiphin's stations. Interested in what will be going on since it could directly affect you, you have tuned in to watch the ceremony. In the background, you see the stage within an auditorium. Hmm, haven't seen this room before. This thing looks pretty big. A huge tapestry emblazoned with the TMSI logo is hanging behind the stage. On the stage you see quite a few beings seated in comfortable chairs. In the center sits a podium. People are seated in almost all of the seats within the auditorium. A heavy mix of TMSI uniforms and civilian attire fill the seats.

Down near the front, you can see more camera crew. How silly, a camera crew filming a camera crew. The crowd hushes as a tall human walks to the podium. He is well-groomed, dark-haired, and well postured. His presence alone is commanding, and as he speaks, his voice is one of a sharp, stern resonating tone that calls attention to itself. "Good day fellow sentients. I am Director of Operations John Green. We are here today to honor an age-old tradition, the formal Change of Command, when the charge of one leader is passed on to another. It is an honor for me to be standing here today in front of such outstanding individuals. These fellows seated behind me are responsible for your past, and your future." He indicates the sentients seated behind him with a gracious sweep of his arm.

"We are gathered in the presence of Chief Overseer Amon Nublar," the Sullustan nods. "His relief is Overseer Andy Quick," one of the humans nods, a rugged, middle-aged looking man. "I would also like to introduce their respective teams." He gestures towards an obviously tall human with dark hair and a scar from his right temple to his chin, "Engineer Joe Strik, and Engineer Holkarn Qessmah who is still on assignment." He now gestures towards a thoughtful-looking Muun, "Engineer Balah Dhure and Trainee Luke Castro, who is still en route."

Director Green stops speaking, and the Malduiphin anthem begins playing in the background. It is a solemn tune, but inspires a determination that speaks well of the Malduiphin residency. Chief Overseer Amon Nublar rises, as does Overseer Andy Quick. Both march forward in full bearing, respectful of the positions in which they are charged. The Sullustan is carrying what appears to be a datapad and a keycard in his left hand, the former draped with a small banner and tassel in the same colors as those of TMSI. He steps crisply in front of Director Green, snaps his right hand up into a salute, and extends his left hand holding the datapad and keycard.

"With the passing of the key and data to the Jhensrus System, I, Chief Overseer Amon Nublar, relinquish my command and duties." Director Green returns the salute and extends his left hand to receive the items and says "I, Director John Green, do hereby relieve you of command of the Jhensrus System." At the same time that he retracts his hand with the items, both beings drop their salutes.

Director Green then turns to Overseer Andy Quick, and with the same precision and pride, the process is reversed. Facing Overseer Quick, Overseer Quick salutes Director Green. Director Green returns the salute and extends his left hand with the datapad and keycard, "Overseer Andy Quick, you are hereby assigned as Chief of Operations of the Jhensrus Division." Overseer Quick accepts the items and says, "I, Overseer Andy Quick, do hereby assume the duties and responsibilities of the Chief of Operations of the Jhensrus Division." Both men snap their salute down, at the same time Overseer Quick retracts his left hand with the items.

All three beings sharply face towards the audience. Director Green is approached by another human in uniform carrying a datapad and keycard which are handed to him. This time the tassel remains in TMSI colors, but the small banner is in maroon and gold. Director Green and Chief Overseer Nublar face each other once again. The last process is repeated again, assigning Nublar to the Desevro Division. Both beings face forward again. The anthem music finally ceases. "Beings of Malduiphin," Director Greens voice echoes in the auditorium, "We greatly appreciate you joining us here today in what shall be an historic moment. As TMSI launches into a new system to expand, not only for ourselves, but for all who have elected us as their governing body, we tread humbly knowing that we serve you more than you do us."

"New routes of trade will be opened, new coffers explored and divided. New resources shall be pooled into our own so that the shipyards that help shape the economy will continue to thrive. With these new alliances with the Tion Hegemony, we shall grow and prosper ever more. Thank you for witnessing this moment with us, and recognizing these fine beings who work hard for you. Thank you." And with his final words, Director Green steps back from the podium to applause from the assemblage, all three beings salute the crowd which brings even more applause. Director Green marches from the stage, followed in file by the other beings that were on the stage with him.

The camera continues to pan around the crowd after the departure, though the sound fades into a speaker from the studio. "This is Talina Maider of MGNN coming to you live from the auditorium of TMSI headquarters in New Haven. We have just watched the Change of Command ceremony for the control of the Jhensrus system. As I understand it, the people of Malduiphin will notice no difference, since Overseer Quick has unofficially been running things for a while now, under the direction of Chief Overseer Nublar. And while Overseer Quick will point out that guidance from Overseer Quick is key in his performance, Chief Overseer Nublar states that it is Overseer Quick's own innate abilities that render him such an astute supervisor, and make him most suitable for this position."

"For MGNN, this is Talina Maider, signing off from the Change of Command ceremony." With that closing statement, your vid rolls into commercials for Star Tours, the company "that takes you anywhere and everywhere."

Your vid fades from the last commercial for vacation plans to Coruscant to see the Senatorial buildings and such to the live broadcast from the Grand Opening of Frost Landing in ARD. Brought to you by your favorite casters at MGNN, it is an exciting event.

In the background you can see several builders still around the structure. The facility itself appears complete. They are there carrying out last minute details and bringing systems online. A platform is in the foreground, in front of the entrance to the pad. The new Tion Military and Science Industry banner is waving gloriously in the gentle breeze. That sullustan Amon Nublar is sitting in a chair along with several other TMSI uniforms. A speaker is at the podium going on and on.

You hear a familiar voice, Ryn Heljyc "Hello sentients of Malduiphin. This is Ryn Heljyc here broadcasting to you from the station in New Haven. Our own wonderful Talina Maider is in ARD, along with Samuel Smythe. We have joined the festivities already in progress in order to avoid all the boring introductions, [chuckles]."

"... and is representative of a great milestone for Malduiphin. This will be the first formal landing pad on our world." Sam Smythe is the one at the podium, speaking to the crowd gathered there. From the looks of it, hundreds have gathered for this historic moment. "If it weren't for the glory of Tion Mil/Sci industries, formerly known to us as Frost, and may well be for some time, we wouldn't have this grand structure of economic strength. And if I may now introduce the individual who is our representative here in Jhensrus for Frost, er, TMSI, Chief Overseer Amon Nublar."

The crowd gives a polite round of applause while the sullustan walks to the podium. Once he is there, the applause fades. "People of Malduiphin, we at TMSI greatly appreciate your patience while we continue to grow Malduiphin, for all of us. This new landing pad will begin to really connect Malduiphin with the rest of the galaxy. It should prove to not only increase feasible business for TMSI, but increase economic profits for the planet as well. Without further ado, and with great pleasure, I present to you, the people of Malduiphin, this landing pad, memorably named 'Frost Landing'."

The sullustan makes some grand gesture of welcome to all. The great ribbon across the entrance is cut at the same time. And people wander into the new landing pad. Talina Maider comes into view in the foreground. "Hello Ryn. That proved to probably be one of the shortest opening ceremonies, but from my understanding, Chief Overseer Nublar wasn't even sure he'd be here for it. Though from my understanding, this was something he backed heavily for the economic and morale booster that it could prove to be. As he stated, for the people of Malduiphin, but also for the company as it may be used for a multitude of purposes by all."

In the background you can see Sam Smythe, Amon Nublar, and a couple of others speaking together. Introductions are obviously being made up on the stage. The sullustan appears to be introducing Sam Smythe to the others in his company.

"From the main stage, this is Talina Maider for MGNN at the grand opening of Frost Landing. Until next time."

While watching the the latest pod-races on Gamorra, the screen blasts to static for a fraction of a second, then fades in to your local new team at MGNN. Your screen showing your pod-racing drops to a small inset in the lower left corner. Ryn Heljyc is sitting front and center, and a new bothan female face is adjacent to him. Both are reviewing their datascreens that are part of the table surface in front of them.

The viewport behind them looks out onto a grand scene from Malduiphin.

In the foreground you see the familiar metropolis of New Haven, while the snow-topped peaks from the East Range are clearly visible in the background. All manner of ships are moving in and out of New Haven, from transports to the large Bulk Freighters. Ryn looks up at the camera and says, "Welcome to this breaking news from MGNN. I'm Ryn Heljyc, and this is my lovely new co-anchor, Talina Maider." The bothan looks up and smiles at the camera. "Hello Malduiphin, we have some surprising news for you, fresh off the datalines."

Ryn continues from here. "A surprise to the people of Malduiphin, Frost Shipyards has changed their name to Tion Military and Science Industries. It is obvious that the Tion Hegemony may have a stronger influence than previously thought on our locally controlling entity. As the largest employer on Malduiphin, Tion Mil/Sci had recently begun a phenominal growth spurt. It appears that this growth spurt has partially been funded by the Tion Hegemony, though we will have more direct answers for you shortly on that. What is certain, our sources confirm that the name change from Frost Shipyards to Tion Mil/Sci Industries is in whole funded by the Tion Hegemony."

Talina starts in with "Samuel Smythe has just recently been granted his request to interview Chairman Gadon Trammer. It is not yet clear as to exactly when it will transpire, but maybe he can shed some light on the topic for us. And if not from that interview, then from the next with Overseer Amon Nublar, which is scheduled for 5 days from now."

Ryn, again starts in, "Having just really started receiving open communications with the leadership of the company that has brought such wealth and continuing employment to the people of Malduiphin, we are not completely surprised of catching this information post-facto. In what promise to be gripping interviews, we will get your answers. Our crack investigative team is on the case for you, the citizens of Malduiphin."

Both speakers in unison look into the camera, smile, and say "For Malduiphin Galactic News Network, This is Ryn Heljyc and Talina Maider signing off." The inset of your pod-racing expands again until it fills your screen once more.

As you settle in for what you hope will be an enlightening interview and flip on the vid-screen and the recorder to save it in case you miss something, you see the familiar MGNN letters come up on the screen. A table obviously made of native wood, and probably hand-carved by native craftsmen sits center-screen in a moderately-furnished room. Not quite utilitarian, it is also not lavish. On a wall in the background you can easily make out a cloth banner with the Frost Shipyards logo on it. A quiet but attention-grabbing little harmony plays, and an introduction you are all too familiar with announcing this as being a special interview by MGNN and the views expressed… blah, blah, blah. Well, it's obvious Frost doesn't splurge money away on lavishness, but does support the local economy directly.

"And this is Samuel Smythe here in Frost Shipyards Galactic Headquarters, located in New Haven on planet Malduiphin. I have the honor of finally getting to speak with someone in charge about what's going on with Frost, with Malduiphin, and Jhensrus in general." The camera pulls back and widens the shot so that a sullustan appears in the view, sitting at the table with Sam. An odd sense of familiarity seems to … crap! That's the same sullustan Sam's been chasing around the planet! Oh, this should be interesting.

"Here with me today is an elusive character I must say. You regular viewers may recognize him, as he's been set in the screen several times by my camera-man." The sullustan seems unaffected by this announcement, sitting in an attentive manner, but without worry or concern. "I have the good fortune of introducing one of Frost's senior members in the system, Overseer Amon Nublar. He is the current Chief of Operations of the Jhensrus Division of Frost's Department of Operations. He should also be able to enlighten us about what is going on since he is in charge of this area. Am I right, Mr. Nublar?"

The sullustan leans forward just a bit, as if he were going to speak into a microphone. "First Sam, you can call me Amon. Second, I am not technically in charge here. My job merely means that construction and production in Jhensrus is my job. Making sure it happens, and efficiently as possible. That is all I am in charge of."

Samuel seems unabated by this little revelation and continues on. "Well, it seems that you have been directing a lot of construction around Malduiphin. Some of my viewers may be concerned that you are constructing too fast, and that there will be dire consequences because of your actions. What do you think?"

This Amon Nublar pauses for a moment, "Sam, though I do wonder how are able to read your viewers' minds, I can assure you that the construction taking place is only beneficial to the economy and stability of the people of Malduiphin. Frost Shipyards is the largest employer on Malduiphin. The people of Malduiphin trust Frost for a reason, or we would not still be the elected leadership for Malduiphin. The rate of growth is only what the economy will allow. The construction is timed so that it finishes in a designated order to allow the economy to adjust and absorb the new additions." The sullustan leans back again, apparently awaiting the next question.

"Well, what do you think Frost is going to do about the situation with the former Vice-Chairman? If they can not protect their own, how are we to believe they can protect us?" Sam smiles like a predator, as if he has this sullustan cornered.

Mr. Nublar merely speaks calmly, "Sam, I do not make policy, nor do I care to be involved in the politics of that matter. All I can say is that it was a tragic chain of events that led to where Mr. Darman is today. That matter is being addressed by those who have the authorization to make the decisions necessary to try to remedy the matter. As for the security of Malduiphin, our security forces are top-notch. I have every faith in Director-Marshal Rhode and her team, as should the people of Malduiphin. I, however, was invited here to speak about construction and production here in Jhensrus, not company politics and policy."

Sam, seeming a little displeased at being headed off again, concedes obviously as his next question is back on topic. "Very well, what is the future here on Malduiphin, or in Jhensrus?" Mr. Nublar leans in again, "Well, here on Malduiphin, the plans for expansion grow almost as fast as the cities themselves. As you have personally seen, Sam, ARD and Migio have already been set into motion. Those will be done within the next month. We have also begun on a new city, again, which you have witnessed, " the sullustan smirks at Sam with an accusing and knowing smile, "in the northwest. This Factory City will bring hundreds of new jobs alone into Malduiphin. We also have other expansions on the short list."

Sam looks a little taken aback, "Amon, these cities I have apparently witnessed, as you say, what are their purposes to be when they are done? What can the people expect from these city expansions that are on your short-list? And when will they be started, or what is their expected completion date?"

"Well Sam," Mr. Nublar begins, "the other expansions are scheduled to be Almansia, Nymeria, Onyxville, and Juteswarren. As for their timeline, I do not have a solid one yet. I can say I am expected to complete them before the end of the third fiscal quarter of this year. The intent or purpose of the other cities is to not only boost production for Frost Shipyards, but to increase the draw for people to move here to Malduiphin by increasing available jobs, which will also benefit the people of Malduiphin by creating more commerce locally. And, our city designers have given great thought and care to balancing the designs properly to help keep crime low and morale high. The people of Malduiphin are our primary concern in all of this. Balancing their well-being with our cooperative growth is the only path Frost will take."

Two armed bothan women enter the room and head straight for Amon Nublar. While Sam tries to throw his next question out, one of the women leans down and whispers into Mr. Nublar's ear. He begins to rise out of his seat while Sam is getting the question out. "And what about the concerns of the Tion Hegemony, Amon? What is their primary concern and should the people of Malduiphin be concerned about a takeover, or even a sell-out?"

"Unfortunately, Sam, I am out of time for today. Duty calls. I can part with the facts that Frost is not looking to sell out. We can speak again sometime soon, and I will have more answers for you then. It has been an honor to get a chance to speak to you, and to let the people of Malduiphin know what's going on. I appreciate your time." He reaches a hand out and shakes with Sam, then as abruptly as he appeared on your set, he vanishes through the door to the left. Sam sits there a second, obviously distracted by the questions still running around in his head, realizes he's still on the air. Snapping back to the camera, "This is Samuel Smythe bringing you this exclusive interview with a prominent member of Frost Shipyards, confirming the growth of Malduiphin, but opening even more questions about what is going to become of us and our planet, not only in the near future, but in the far as well. Speaking here with me today was Overseer Amon Nublar, answering only questions about things transpiring here in Jhensrus. Until I can get another interview, this is Samuel Smythe signing off for MGNN."

Your vid-screen fades to black. Then breaks into commercials for the new landing pad coming to ARD, promising new commerce and increased trade and tourism. Wow, did Sam just say he wouldn't be back on again until the next interview?

The vid you were watching your recent program of 'To Catch a Wamp-rat' on suddenly bursts into static for a moment, then the news crew you are so used to seeing sits behind their usual desk, a background of New Havenand its surrounding desert behind them. The upper left corner flashes the 'Breaking News!' signage informing you that it will be on all channels, so there's no reason to switch stations. The bothan Ryn Heljyc taps his datascreen in his desk, looks up to the camera and says ,"This is Ryn Heljyc bringing you a breaking news story now unfolding within our system. Vice-Chairman Shane Darman, Second-in-command of Frost Shipyards has reportedly been accosted by the Eidola Pirates. Exact details are sketchy at best, as Frost does not share much with us about its happenings, but we understand that Mr. Darman was out-of-system on one of his personal vessels, when the Pirates gained entry and overwhelmed Mr. Darman."

The vid switches to another angle on Ryn and goes to a close-up. "Reports of a ransom appear to be true, and as we understand it, several different views on what the ransom may be have come to light. The best we can say is that there has been a ransom issued by the scum known as the Eidola Pirates, and that Chairman Gadon Trammer, along with Representatives from the Tion Hegemony, are trying to address the issue and come to some kind of terms with the Eidola Pirates."

"We switch now to our man-on-the-scene, Samuel Smythe, who has finally made his way back to New Haven, now on location at Frost Headquarters. Sam…" The view switches to a crew apparently in a lounge with many employees from Frost in a variety of uniforms, from standard coveralls, to standard flight suits, to power armor. All races seem to be represented here. The camera pans across the scene. A somber aura emanates from the crowd. Even a table apparently held by several prominent members of Frost sits, heads held low over their drinks, talking in respectfully quiet voices, except one rowdy human appearing to be already drunk out of his gourd. It comes to settle on a familiar human, Samuel Smythe.

A solemn look even on his face, Samuel begins, "Thank you, Ryn. As you can see, it is a dark day for Frost Shipyards. Though one man seems to be trying very hard to lighten the mood and raise everyone's spirits, by imbibing himself heavily with them. I understand from several employees here that it is Admiral Aldwar Fisher, Director of Logistics, and that he is commonly in this state. Now that's probably a story unto itself." The human that was insinuated as being Admiral Fisher sees the camera crew, waves as only a happy drunk can, and apparently tries to get up. The sullen sullustan next to him seems to come around and realize what is about to transpire and physically returns the drunk to his seat with little to no effort.

You think you may have seen a smirk flash on Sam's face, but weren't really looking so you can't be sure. "All others here are hit with the reality of what has happened, and understand that any of them could go through the same. For so long, the threat of the Eidola pirates seemed so far away to these employees. Even to a faction that travels across the universe frequently to do its business."

"As you can imagine, security has tightened for Frost employees deciding to travel on personal business. Talks of locators are occurring frequently, but not from the higher-ups. As usual, they are being very tight-lipped about anything dealing with this matter. I have only been allowed into the headquarters once before, but it seems that Frost may have decided that the people of Malduiphin should be more informed about what the company that has been trusted with the control of their planet is doing."

"I have even been granted an interview with the Chief of Operations of the Jhensrus Division tomorrow, so tune in at midday tomorrow for that, presented live here on MGNN. That is really the only reason I happened to be back in New Haven for this grievous event. Giving our prayers to the captured, and to his comrades in this dark hour, this is Samuel Smythe for Malduiphin Galactic News. Ryn, back to you."

The scene is back to the humdrum reporting room. Ryn Heljyc sitting at his desk, scanning his datascreen. "A quick recap, V.C. Shane Darman has been captured by the Eidola Pirates. Chairman Trammer and representatives of the Tion Hegemony are working to coordinate his release. At this time, that is all we know. This is Ryn Heljyc, returning you now to your regularly scheduled programming." Your vid-screen turns to static once again, and flashes back into your 'To Catch a Wamp-rat'.

As you tune in for your evening entertainment, you catch a show already in progress. The background view looks a little familiar and you realize that this is one of the special reports from Sam Smythe. The view is of Migio and the expansion going on there. "... and the Sullustan that was obviously in charge was also responsible for guiding the crews in ARD as they went to work there also." The view cuts to another familiar city here on Malduiphin, representing a quickly growing ARD. New high rises are going up, a couple more power generators are already operational, and what appears to be the beginning of a landing pad are all in panned through smoothly as the broadcast continues. What appears to be the same Sullustan is seen directing several more crews here in ARD. Standing at the ramp of a Gallofree Yards transport, he is surveying the work, checking his datapad and directing more people of all races.

"I have been sneaking around the surface for several weeks now. Everywhere I go that I hear about new construction, I find the same Sullustan involved in some way. I may be mistaken, but I believe that he is some prominent figure within Frost, but they have never been very public with their top personnel, with the exception of Chairman Trammer, Vice-Chairman Darman and Senior Advisor Starfall. My source within Frost claims that not only have two cities been expanded, but another new one is under construction, promising new and steady jobs to the people of Malduiphin. New factories shining and waiting to be finished and hiring so that they can start producing."

The image cuts to yet another new view. Here, however, it is not the Sullustan who apparently is in charge. One Bulk freighter sits idle, waiting in the ice of this glacier. Workers are receiving instructions from a human when the Gallo the Sullustan was using arrives on the scene. Immediately a small workforce steps out, as well as a sullustan. The cargo ramp lowers and workers begin unloading materials and surveying for construction. The Sullustan salutes the Human. "As you see here it's obvious that the human has more rank than the sullustan, but it is still unclear as to who they are and what positions with Frost they hold. What is clear is that Frost is in full swing to earn back the popular majority for the Jhensrus system." As the camera continues to watch, the human and sullustan are into conversation, with the sullustan nodding now and then, obviously receiving orders of his own.

"The city planners thus far have appeared to do well, making sure there is a proper balance for employment. We only hope at this point that with their obvious sudden desire for growth, they do not forget to keep that balance." In the background the sullustan climbs on a swoop and leaves the crews and the freighters behind, racing off into the distance. "Once more, for Malduiphin Galactic News, this is Samuel Smythe, signing off."

As the afternoon wears on, you are anxiously awaiting a report by the planet's most favored news-caster, Samuel Smythe. The special expose he was supposed to do has been canceled, but this report was looking into the why. The expose had been scheduled to be an interview with a prominent member within Frost Shipyards, and promised to elaborate on the relations between Frost and the Tion Hegemony.

It has been near a month since a link between the Tion Hegemony and Frost Shipyards had been mentioned. The vid crackles into focus, with the logo from MGN displaying crisply across it before fading out of view. The background shows a near barren mining city. Recognizable as the quiet Migio, it is bustling with teams of people, building and hauling. The view could very well be from one of the higher floors of the existing high-rise. Samuel and his camera-man are obviously trying to hide their "investigative" report for some reason.

"Ladies and gentlebeings, this is Samuel Smythe broadcasting from the surface of Malduiphin. I am currently in the mining outpost Migio. Let me tell you this quiet little mining town isn't what it used to be. As I have watched the increase in activity here, which has also been noticed across Malduiphin, I have seen one of Frost Shipyards' bulk freighters set down here, and a whole team of people came off. They were led by a Sullustan who looked like he thought he might be important."

"I don't know who he was, but he was in a Frost uniform and he was definitely in charge. He directed several crews, one offloaded a bunch of materials into the hangar here, the rest all started surveying sites. Judging by the segmenting, there are multiple structures starting to be constructed. I think it's safe to say that this once small town will no longer be that. Wait, what've got here? It looks like it may be another freighter coming in."

As Samuel speaks, the Frost Shipyards Bulk Freighter Frost Bulk descends into view. Touching down lightly on the desert ground, a shuttlebus emerges from the hangar bay. The cargo holds unleash a fury of droids and beings hauling materials into the hangar. The shuttlebus settles down a fair distance from the freighter. Out comes a couple of construction crews, pausing just outside the shuttlebus. Next steps out a scrawny, yet self-confident Sullustan in a sharp Frost Shipyards uniform. Unidentifiable from the camera's current position, his rank and name are still unknown.

"I believe that this sudden boom in construction and activity within Frost may be the reason for my interviewee to have canceled on me. A source from within Frost has claimed that activity there has increased dramatically as well. Flight crews have been coming and going like crazy. Materials being shipped around, and shipyards cranking up so that it would appear all will be producing something within the next month."

"Does this sudden increase in activity have something to do with the influence of Tion Hegemony? Or does it have something to do with the sudden political takeover from the Heirs of Ziost? I promise you, my viewers and fans, that I am looking into events going on here on our wonderful planet and around it. I will find out the truth for you. This is Samuel Smythe, with Malduiphin Galactic News, signing off."

As you watch the news service at its regular time, a certain report is promising to gain utmost interest. You watch for the grueling 20 minutes of local news before the story is finally 'cast. A familiar human face enters the view of the screen, as the background is focused on the Frost Shipyards headquarters in New Haven. You see the beautiful clear sky hold the banner of Frost in stark contrast.

"This is Samuel Smythe bringing you this story. In a move that the people of Malduiphin can only watch in awe, the leaders of Frost Shipyards have been in negotiations with the leaders of the Tion Hegemony.

What this will bring in the future is unknown, at best. The history of the Tionese is not one to be ignored. Though they preach a peaceful path now, they were not known to be a peaceful people. Trust is not something that the people of this world hand out freely, having endured their own trials. Frost Shipyards has earned the trust of the people, and that alone may be the only reason that the people have not demanded control of their government back.

The leaders of Frost Shipyards have watched out for the better interest of the people of Malduiphin since they gained control. We shall see if the latest negotiations are for the better interest of the people, or the company. Mr. Trammer, I call out to you for the people. The people would like to know what you have in mind with this move. To what end are these talks moving?

Again, this is Samuel Smythe for Malduiphin Galactic News, signing off."

Your current program of choice fades into the distance just as the punch line is about to be aired. Into view fades a wonderful view of Malduiphin. A voice sets in "Here on Malduiphin, home and Headquarters to Frost Shipyards, a voice of despair calls out." The view of Malduiphin fades into a CGI of the entire system.

"As the Heirs of Ziost have gained control over the system, those that work for Frost Shipyards are unhappy to see their gainful employer lose any of its power to another group. Hopeful, yet, they march on in prayer that Frost Shipyards will once again regain political control over the system of Jhensrus."

The view now fades into a view of Frost Shipyards Headquarters in New Haven on Malduiphin. The honorable banner of Frost Shipyards waves in the background. "Those who live on Malduiphin rely on the employees of Frost to bring the credits home. They also rely on the customers of Frost who usually end up touring Malduiphin while they are here, and spreading credits among the population." A grand ship rises from Frost Shipyards' Headquarters, glinting in the light from the Jhensrus sun. Though this ship does not bare the logo of Frost, it is magnificent non-the-less. "The people of Malduiphin hope and pray for Frost. Wary of what the new regime may bring. For Malduiphin Galactic News, this is Samuel Smythe signing off."

Your programming of choice returns, only to find that you have missed the rest of your show, and you are now into "Zoological facts of Foreign Regions" is on.

Your normal programming fades away into a view aboard a space station. Bustling beings in the background are moving cargo containers to and fro, loading onto some ships, unloading from others. They appear to carry similar identifiers, though they are a variety of ships. All forms of YT's, some Firesprays, Couriers, and the like. A being steps into the view…

"This is Samuel Smythe for Malduiphin Galactic News with a special report. In a strange turnover of power, Gadon Trammer, owner and proprietor of Frost Shipyards, has retaken control of his company, relieving Gunn Starfall of his presidency. Rumor has it that Gunn Starfall himself requested this move. As we reported before, these shifts in power reach all the way to the belly of the beast.

Within the working force itself, there are shifts in positioning throughout Frost. While none of the staff are talking directly to us, we have surmised from several employees that a previous supervisor simply quit communicating, while another is touring the galaxy with an entire security force. Whatever the truth may be, for now, the shipyards are too quiet for the employees. While the directors claim it is a temporary issue, and will change with the reorganization, the workers are not as optimistic.

This, shortly following the loss of control of the Jhensrus system, leads one to wonder what is really going on. That, however, is a story for another time. It is a story I am going to be looking into more."

Camera fades in on a docking bay, several ships are there bearing the emblem of Frost Shipyards, some being loaded, others being offloaded by workers of all races. You make out what must be a couple of pilots going over some paperwork with another individual in the background. The camera shifts sideways enough to bring into view a human male.

"In a major turnover at Frost Shipyards, several key personnel have shifted around. In a move that will have to be watched closely, President Gadon Trammer has stepped aside, appointing Gunn Starfall to President. While Gadon Trammer stays on as CEO, he has declared that he will not be directly involved with the inner workings of Frost at this point. He will, however, be concerning himself with diplomatic relations on behalf of Frost Shipyards. It seems to be a move back towards governmental positioning for Mr. Trammer.

While Frost Shipyards may not be the best pay in the galaxy, they have increased their numbers significantly in the last few months. Contracts are starting to flow in, and employees are handling tasks with increasing efficiency. The new leadership seems to be dedicated to carrying on with the ethics and proficiency set forth by Mr. Gadon Trammer. They are a growing faction and those employed by Frost Shipyards appear to be quite dedicated.

With such a bold move, only time will tell if it pays off, but Mr. Trammer's business sense has done well for Frost Shipyards thus far. Though they have been about everywhere in the galaxy, for the most part only direct customers have noticed their presence. The pilots of Frost are a breed that does what they are paid for with precision and efficiency rivaled by none. They need no herald to announce their presence. They are quick and quiet. Customer satisfaction is of key importance to them.

If you require services from Frost, I am told you will not be disappointed. From Frost Terminal, I am Samuel Smythe for Malduiphin Galactic News."