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Bretonian Broadcasting Corporation
818 A.S -Earlier today, plans were unveiled for the Royal Liner Henry VIII to be opened as a museum ship that would orbit Planet New London. The statement was issued by Acting Division Director of Borderworld Exports, Sir Andrew Maloney to represent the corporation's interests in the ship.
Leaks from inside the company had already hinted as much, but this is the first official confirmation. Exhibits will be drawn from New London, Cambridge, Leeds and various other Bretonian territorial holdings to illustrate an in-depth and comprehensive spread of Bretonian history and culture. The final structural alterations to transform it into a functioning space borne museum were completed last week.
The VIII currently serves as both a historical monument and a corporate flagship. At the age of 251 years, it is also the oldest ship in Borderworld Export's fleet. Originally commissioned and owned by Queen Elizabeth IV, Borderworld Exports purchased it at it's scrap value after her passing in 628 A.S.
The VIII itself recently underwent refits in Liberty for it's 250th birthday, although it is currently moored in the Newcastle system, pending further work. The ship will be officially retired as Borderworld Export's corporate flagship during the celebration, where it's replacement, the Royal Liner Victoria will come into active service.
The ceremony itself is scheduled to take place on the 21st of February, 818 A.S., with tickets already on sale. Prices are believed to have reached as high as $25,000 as New London's rich, famous and influential try to outbid each other for seats.
Posts: 6,050
Threads: 302
Joined: Aug 2007
Staff roles: Story Dev Economy Dev
Bretonian Broadcasting Corporation
818 A.S. - Shocking news is emerging tonight from the Newcastle system. Reports began filtering to Bretonian held planets throughout the Empire early this morning that the Scarborough Shipping and Fabrication Plant in the Newcastle system was brutally raided, resulting in the loss of the Royal Liner Henry VIII in what has already been labelled the largest spatial robbery in recent history. The perpetrators of the attack are currently unnamed.
Concerns were first raised when all communications from the system abruptly ceased. This radio 'jamming' is believed to have been caused when the jump gate to Leeds, and several communication-bearing trade lanes were digitally attacked. This radio silence lasted for several minutes, resulting in an Armed Forces wing being dispatched to investigate.
Upon arrival on the scene, several lifeboats were discovered from destroyed ships by the officers. It is also believed there was a prolonged engagement between the military and local Bowex security forces against the pirates themselves. Borderworld Export representatives have remained unwilling openly comment openly on the raid and it's purpose, given the humiliation it entails.
A press conference was hosted on Planet New London earlier today, to confirm the loss of life involved. The death toll currently stands at 17 killed, and the entire screw contingent of 83 on the Henry missing. Their families have been informed.
In light of the incident, the corporation's stock prices have plummeted to a new low, placing considerable strain on the newly appointed DO Andrew Maloney. How the incident will affect the company in the long term, although internal sources have already stated they are taking proactive steps towards recovering the Liner and crew members therein.
The Police Authority is currently offering a reward for information that results in the arrest of offending parties or the recovery of the ship itself. Anyone with information regarding the incident are implored to come forward.