As Rheinland tears itself apart in a bloody civil war, the sector looks on in horror. Despite this, the conflict is seen by some in an altogether different light - there is an advantage to be pressed, should one have the courage to do so. The preoccupation of Federalist and Imperial forces with one another provides a momentary strategic window that the Red Hessians have been waiting for, and long awaited plans are put into motion. Red Hessian scouts begin jumping into the Cologne System to test the mettle of its defenders.

Tholey Station is largely administrated by the Bounty Hunters Guild, who have already noticed the increased Hessian incursions in the area. A warning has been issued to the RFP that the system's budget is nearly empty, and unless action is taken to address that issue, the Guild will be forced to pack up and leave. In the immediate short term, the Guild is prepared to assist the small Imperialist garrison with defending the area until the pot finally runs dry. Once it does, they will down arms and leave the system.

Should the funding run dry, Tholey's Guild liaisons will provide the Imperials with 24 hours warning before pulling out. Philanthropistic individuals may prevent this by purchasing Imperial War Bonds ($10,000 per unit) on Olpe Border Station and donating them for free to Tholey Station. This will prevent the Guild from retreating, at least until they've spent their funding again.

As the system garrison send repeated distress calls to New Berlin, it does not seem that anyone is listening or otherwise able to help...

Sunday 12th April - ongoing