I have a strange occurrence to report. This evening a Kusari Science Vessel, KSV Hakobune, entered New Berlin Space. When I challenged him, he indicated he was exploring, and had specifically been retained by the Kanzler to map the Jumpholes in Rheinland space.
All seemed well enough, then I received a garbled distress call from the Hakobune, indicating he had discovered something unbelieveable, then indicating ship problems. Something seemed to have taken over his ship, and was syphoning his data.
Once his data was taken, his ship, on its own, took on a course towards the sun. Myself and Emperor_Norton[M] looked on helplessly as the science vessel was vaporized. The stubborn old scientist refused to eject, believing that his failure was complete. He asked that I communicate to the Kanzler his regrets for failing in his mission.
I am unable to understand what happened. I only hope Rheinland scientists can determine what happened to this unfortunate explorer.
After the encounter with the Hakobune, Spirit Evil entered New Berlin, and Emperor Norton, Mandalorean Mercenary, engaged him. Unfortunately, Spirit's Rogue Gunboat outmaneuvered the Mandalorean cruiser, and destroyed that vessel. I was able to track the mercenaries to safety, then I engaged Spirit with my bomber. Outgunned, I almost managed to drop his shields once, with a dual Nova shot, but my bomber was no match for the gunboat. Just before exploding, I ejected, and was returned safely to receive medical attention on New Berlin. Just bruised tibia, and ego. Good thing, I've gotten used to the new leg. Don't want another replacement.