Human Time Line 3151

Updated Sunday 15 May, 2011 12:18 PM

Human Time Line 3151-3200

Fourth Age

End of Certainty

Fourth Age Glossary (2950-3200)

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3151 As the tremulous events of previous years subsided, life in the United Federation of Planets (UFP) began to return to some resemblance of normality. The Essence Ancients had not been heard of since the Battle of Existence. That, however, did not meant that the United Defence Forces (UDF) had not stopped their vigilance. UDF patrols were as busy as every before. Tima & Nazzdorra, though, show no indication of Essence activity.

United Planetary Explorations (UPX), now that funding had somewhat returned due to a turndown in the war effort, recommenced their terra-forming of Ganymede. Jupiter’s old moon was earmarked years ago for this process, but due to the war, most of UPX’s activity had been applied to the Ancients War. With that now over, UPX could get back to work.

3152 Next Generations Weapons/Warships (NGW) finally produced, for UPX, the long awaited time stream version of BigEar. In many respects it had been around for a few years as Tima, albeit applied for military & not exploration purposes. Thus in using Tima technology, NGW developed the signal detection devise. Unlike Tima, T-Ear as it was known, could not decode the signals that it received. Rather it was extremely sensitive to listening over extremely long distances for evidence of communication. In this respect it was exactly like BigEar.

The Presidential elections were a rather heated affair. Unlike the previous elections which were somewhat sober & quiet, six candidates fought it out. Numerous issues were involved, particularly over the Ancients War. Although nothing had been seen of them, many of the candidates wanted to keep a war footing. Others demanded a return to peace time conditions convinced that the war was over. Several corporations & government agencies sided with the peace group including UPX. The Venus candidate Benny Branagh, a leading peace advocate, had numerous reform policies that included extra funding for UPX, not to mention other civilian activities.

The results of the elections was shear chaos. No one candidate received more than 50% of the vote, so preferences had to be counted. This process took four weeks as the three war candidates swapped preferences among themselves as did the three peace candidates. The final result, which also included two weeks of recounts, witnessed Branagh become President by the narrowest of margins.

3153 President Branagh began his reform programs for the UFP. The budget of the UDF was cut back, although not as dramatically as first feared. No new classes would be designed/constructed for some time, nonetheless, upgrades were budgeted for. More importantly, 1 000 ships were authorised to replace the drastic loss in ships at the Battle of Existence.

UPX, unlike the UDF, had a tremendous increase in budget. A whole new range of ships where authorised for construction. In a decade it was hoped that then entire UPX fleet would be replaced. President Branagh had considered that exploration had been sadly lacking in the last century or so & that he was to be the president to change this. This was besides the fact that a resource rich planet hed to be found to replace Hollows. UPX, needless to say, was exuberant.

Other reforms of President Branagh witnessed new hospitals, schools & universities being established in record numbers. Although the major planets enjoyed many of these basic institutions, many colonies, even those centuries old, had a major deficiency in these services. Twelve planets in particular, would thus benefit greatly from these programs.

3154 UPX began operation with their T-Ear stations. Numerous signals had been identified in the time stream. UDF took a particular interest in what UPX was doing with T-Ear & it became normal practice that UDF personnel worked alongside UPX people while listening for evidence of civilisations. Although UPX’s intensions were for exploration, UDF’s were for defence. High on UDF’s list was evidence of Essence Ancients activity.

NGW finally found themselves another planet. Although NGW D1 continued to remain solely their’s, Millennium had become impossible as a base. Since being evicted by the Unis, the arid although habitable planet (similar to Sierra), had become their home planet. The result was that Millennium was a member of the UFP.

NGW’s new planet, another arid planet named Enigma, was 200 light years rimward of Honshu. Again, like originally with Millennium, it was out side of UFP territory. It did not take long before major facilities became operational & NGW was back in business. Its location ensured that the prying eyes of the UFP, Zargah, Cordah & anyone else for that matter, were kept away. Only the UDF Indorra/Nazzdorra station at Honshu could track NGW activity at Enigma.

3155 In a shock to everyone, UPX announces that they have discovered life on Europa. Since the creation of Lucifer & the beginning of terra-forming on Ganymede, UPX had discovered conflicting data that seemed to suggested that primitive life forms existed on Europa. Research had started, but the Ancients War had restricted UPX’s budget & they had to press their resources into the defence of the UFP.

With the huge increase in its budget, however, that had all changed. To UPX’s embarrassment, though, the primitive life turned out to be "alien" bacteria & viruses. Although the discovery excited UPX at first, DNA analysis soon pointed to Earth. At first no one could understand how life forms from Earth ended up on Europa. NGW soon got into the act & Henry Hotspur came up with a theory so obvious it was lost on all - tourists. He claimed that visitors from Earth to the Monolith Museum had contaminated this part of Europa. When the museum sank into the water, the bacteria & viruses were set free.

No one, of cause believed Hotspur until he challenged them to find the old Monolith & test it accordingly. Although the others at NGW scoffed at the idea, UPX thought differently. Besides, the Monolith would be a great trophy. Thankfully, it did not take long for the Monolith to be discovered in the bed of Europa’s oceans & brought to the surface for examination. Tests soon confirmed Hotspur’s theory: the Monolith was covered with bacteria & viruses that had clearly come from Earth.

3156 After the announcement of life on Europa, the environmental groups began advocating for Europa to become a Planetary Park. UPX, in fact the entire UFP scientific community, agreed with the environmental groups, although for different reasons. While the environmentalists wanted to ensure that the Europans should be protected from interference, the scientific community wanted to study the beginnings of life. Truly Europa was now a living laboratory that the scientists could study to see life evolve.

President Branagh consented to both groups. Tight environmental controls were put in place on Europa. UPX & other research groups, however, could study the beginnings of life as it evolved on the water "planet". Environmentalists were not overly keen on the idea, but UPX insisted on it. Besides, discoveries could be made that could lead to untold benefits for damaged & strained environments on other planets.

3157 In a rather quiet presidential campaign, Branagh was returned to office. His reforms of the previous five years had had a major impact in the lesser developed parts of the UFP. Furthermore, the post-war rebuilding program had seen all but the worst effects of the war disappear. Although some in the core systems complained about "their money being spent for political vote buying…", this was only a minor criticism & was not taken too seriously by most.

Branagh also gained the environmental & scientific vote. His decision the previous year to list Europa as a Planetary Park ensured the sizeable green vote as his. All the same, a backlash did take place among the military & the right. His sever cutbacks on military spending was not at all popular with UDF personnel & caused concern among the conservative voters. Nonetheless, nothing had been seen or heard of from the Essence Ancients for some time now.

3158 The Ford Transport Company posted record losses. This has been the first time in centuries that Ford had not made a profit. The last number of years had been particularly healthy for Ford, even though the Ancients War had gone on for so long. Economic analysts were quick to point out that things started going backwards for Ford when the company changed the replica Mustang model.

When Ford introduced the replica Mustang it was design upon the 1965/66 version. But recently they had dropped the "60s" style & introduced the "90s" style. Sales had immediately dropped off with the result that billions of dollars were lost in revenue. Almost no one bought the "90s" Mustang. Customers were more intent to purchase second hand "60s" Mustangs instead. Few people, however, were keen to sell. This ensured that a "60s" Mustang was worth twice as much than a brand new "90s" model.

3159 While Ford was scratching its corporate head with what to do with the Mustang problem, more "enterprising" individuals found other solutions. The most infamous of these was dubbed the "Great Buckhoo Car Gang". This gang became famous for its exploits in stealing "60s" Mustangs. The United Federal Police Service (UFPS) poured millions of dollars & thousands of personnel into defeating the gang. What had started with the usual kind of police inquiry five years ago into car theft, had turned into a galactic hunt.

Thousands of Mustangs had been stolen since then in an elaborate scheme whereby the Mustangs would be stolen from one planet, transported across the UFP, & sold to new owners elsewhere. Few of the stolen cars were ever recovered during this period costing the Federation millions. Eventually, UFPS persistence, numbers & help from the UDF, began to crack the Car Gang, albeit with limited success. The few Buckhoo gang members arrested had access to large sums of money which ensured the best lawyers.

Nonetheless, the Car Gang’s activities were eventually broken. That did not stop other "enterprises" being carried out. As the five years reign of the Car Gang ended, the "Buckhoo Fake Gang" one commenced. Having set up a cheap factory on the independent world of Waristmo, the Fake Gang began production of bogus Mustangs.

These, thought, were nothing like the original model. They were, however, were sold off regardless as second hand cars. Although the build quality level was shocking, thousands were sold. Alas for the Fake Gang, when the bogus Mustangs became common knowledge, even the most avid Mustang fanatic, let alone car ignorant person, refused to purchase the fake cars. It is thought that the gang lost even more money than Ford had in its worst year.

3160 It was a car accident on Earth that created the next fuss. Over the years, the Unis had gained the unwanted reputation of being the worst drivers of the UFP. In actually they were not. Their reaction speeds & abilities of the Unis were usually much better than any other species. However, a Unis driver on any other planet, except Millennium, usually meant havoc followed.

The multi-pile up in Los Angeles was caused by one particular Unis, Elizabeth MacDuff, who caused a truck filled with nuclear waste to overturn. A further 25 vehicles were also involved with the accident. Thankfully no one was seriously injured, but a large area of the city had to be evacuated while clean-up teams ensured that no contamination had occurred.

The result was that Unis were banned from driving anywhere but on Millennium. It did not take long, however, for a High Court challenge to overturn the ban as unconstitutional. That did not deter the Federation Congress who then passed legislation that restricted every citizen, in regards to driving regulations, where they could drive. Now everyone had to pass a comprehensive drivers examination on every planet that they intended to dive on.

The outcry from the public was deafening. Furthermore, confusion & chaos was rampant as millions of citizens had to take the new examinations. The various planetary administrations, however, had no where near the resources to cover this huge increase. Citizens had to wait months before they could sit for the exam. Many also failed which furthered the already enormous difficulties. Needless to say, the Unis were not overly popular with the rest of the UFP for causing this mess.

3161 Various automobile groups began High Court action over the new car licensing laws. The court cases went on for months as the Justices ruled in ever case that "… The Government of the Federation has the power to legislate & enforce laws that protect the citizens & their property - especially from their own irresponsible actions. The licensing laws are constitutional".

Any chance of repealing the licensing laws became even harder when President Branagh refused to veto or introduce new legislation amending them. At first he had remained indifferent to the issue & had left it to Congress & the High Court to battle it out. But when an idiot from Omega decided to drive through the Presidential Offices on Epsilon in a form of protest, Branagh was not amused. In a footnote, the Vargary thought it was a great joke & one group of practical jokers were arrested before attempting to repeat the "Presidential drive-through".

President Branagh, though, was not up for re-election next year However his Vice-President, Lisa Lucknow of Nirvana, was. Considering the issue was extremely divisive, she remained out of the debates. Branagh became the leading figure in the issue, along with various other planetary administrations who had become tired of the cost of the rising level of motor vehicle accidents.

All this seemed incredible, considering the impact that this had on the entire UFP, that it was caused by such a small number of citizens. While the political arguments & public outrage continued, few noticed, except the Unis, that their population had reached 2.5 million.

3162 The presidential elections were only about one thing - the driving laws. As the campaigns got under way, it appeared that few people cared about health, social or military matters: citizens were wrapped up in the licensing laws. Lisa Lucknow, until now quiet over the issue, decided to go with what appeared to be popular & stated that the laws had to be repealed.

Her policy position was warmly welcomed by the motoring groups, civil rights groups & above all by the Unis. Many of the general population for the first time, however, now entered the debate. Many were dismayed that Lucknow was prepared to dump legislation supported by the person that she was Vice-President to. In the middle of all this Branagh kept quiet. As far as he was concerned, he was more interested in finding a good quiet spot on Earth to go fishing.

Other presidential candidates came to the fore & supported the current legislation. One particular candidate from Los Angeles, Mary Cabeza, the mother of the truck driver involved in the accident that started all this, was incensed at Lucknow for disloyalty to Branagh & her "free driver" policies. The media loved all this & were in a frenzy as the two women abused each other. It was more reminiscent of the sport of wrestling than it was of a presidential election campaign.

Finally the election came. Almost the entire voting population, a record 91%, turned out to vote. Although the final result was close, Cabeza became the next President. Many political commentators were stunned: here the UFP had elected someone who had no political background whatsoever. Her one policy was to ensure that the new driver laws were not repealed. When the citizens of the UFP sobered up, many wondered who they had actually voted for. Virtually everyone wondered if Cabeza could run a city let alone a huge federation.

3163 President Cabeza took no nonsense from anyone. The Speaker of the House was once noted as saying: "Arguing with President Cabeza was like arguing with your mother while she’s holding a rolling pin." The new president easily held her own. Although her first budget received much criticism from everyone, she quickly learnt the ropes of political life.

Luckily for the president, she kept on many of Branagh’s personnel. She had admired the previous president for his warm & sincere ways. Thus many of Branagh’s policies remained in place. A feeling of continuity soon settled most of the citizens of the federation & previous fears left. Only a few continued about the driving legislation, but it had become an old issue that was answered in the presidential election.

3164 As part of continuing Branagh’s policies, President Cabeza began to enjoy some of the fruits of the previous administration. UPX commissioned the first of its next generation of explorer ships. These were the most modern of any ship in the UFP. The UPX Columbus gracefully left her construction dock at Earth to begin her maiden voyage. It was a basic shake-down cruise to Epsilon & back. Soon hundreds of ships of the Columbus class would return UPX to the forefront of the UFP.

Members of the UDF looked on with envy. Although the UDF had received 1 000 replacements since the Battle of Existence, these were classes that were already in service. No new classes had been authorised in years & there was little likelihood that any were forthcoming soon. Even the once invincible Sparta class had faded into the back ground. Many were lost at the Battle of Existence, but no replacements had been authorised.

It would be far to say, however, that no threats were emanate that the UDF could identify. The Essence Ancients were no where to be seen & peace was enjoyed everywhere else. UDF patrols continued everywhere & Nazzdorra, Tima & Indorra scanned for trouble. Thankfully there was none. Other than concerns over the Essence, only the Cordah raised the occasional eyebrow. But that was more of a Zargah problem than a UFP one.

3165 Everyone had forgotten, let alone could now conceive, that the Zargah could ever be an enemy again. Thus it came as a rude shock when trouble began brewing in the Zargah Empire. President Cabeza over reacted when UDF reports started coming in about some social & political problems that had become ugly. For all their lives, although females were thoroughly respected, not one female had ever been allowed to vote. They could do almost anything else, but being involved in the political process of the Zargah Empire was extremely limited to them. Even the Empress could do very little.

This all changed with the new Emperor Chezron II. Immediately after the coronation ceremony, he issued the Female Enfranchisement Proclamation that gave all Zargah females over the age of 18 the right to vote. Many males were stunned as was Parliament. Never before, it seemed, had Chezron indicated such radical policies - if he had he would never have been chosen as Emperor. Many blamed the Empress Dizana who had spent some time on Earth while on a college student exchange.

President Cabeza welcomed the announcement & stated that Chezron would have the Federation’s full support. She made it clear that this meant military support if required. The Joint Chiefs of the UDF, the UFP Congress, the Zargah Parliament & military, even Emperor Chezron, were all stunned by Cabeza’s announcement. This announcement only confused the issue even more & ensured that no one really knew what to do next.

Although it risked war with the UFP, the Zargah Parliament began debates over dismissing their new Emperor as was their right under the Zargah constitution. Chezron countered by appealing to the citizens of the Empire, which ensure protests began for & against the new Emperor. In some places riots began, while in other areas strikes & other forms of protests took place. In one novel event, the wives (& lovers) of the members of Parliament went on a sex strike. There would be no more sex until they could vote.

This, however, did not deter many of the members of Parliament. They continued to debate what to do with Emperor Chezron. As things looked bleak politically for the Emperor, he decided to get in first. As was his right, albeit questionable, he dismissed Parliament & ordered elections for early next year. He then set about an extremely risky political venture.

The first step of Chezron’s plan had just taken place. By dismissing Parliament he had given himself time to do the next step. Due to the fact that the Female Enfranchisement Proclamation had not been voted on yet by the Parliament, thanks to Zargah law, in the event of Parliament not sitting, an Emperor’s proclamation becomes defacto law until accepted or rejected by Parliament. Thus females would have the vote in the next election.

The only hurdle to this could come from the House of Lords. Although part of Parliament, the Lords can have an emergency sitting & act as Parliament if they deem such a sitting is necessary. Thus they could reject the Female Enfranchisement Proclamation before the election, thus ensuring that females could not vote. To counter this Chezron, in one day, created 450 more Lords that were supporters of his Female Enfranchisement Proclamation. These new Zargah Lords came from all walks of life: two were even junior clerks from his personal staff!

3166 As the Zargah election approached, President Cabeza again issued warnings that the elections must be free & far for all Zargah citizens: this included the females as well. The UDF Joint Chiefs could only cringe hoping war did not break out between the Zargah & themselves. Some tension was released when Emperor Chezron politely thanked Cabeza, but even he wished that she shut up.

As suspected, the House of Lords was recalled for an emergency sitting. Among the Lords, 450 new faces sat with the pro- Female Enfranchisement Proclamation group. Previously this group only numbered about 100, but now 552 Lords out numbered 421. Debate over the Female Enfranchisement Proclamation was soon forgotten as arguments erupted over the legitimacy of the new Lords. But argue as much as the old Lords wanted, numbers won the day. Their legitimacy was secure as the Zargah Constitution clearly states that the Emperor can make Lords whenever it pleases him. The Female Enfranchisement Proclamation was then passed & thus became law.

The election was a white wash for the pro-Chezron groups. Liberal minded males as well as the entire female population voted for change. Few of the old guard remained. Even the Chancellor, who was relucent to get involved in the political mess over something he personally thought was way overdue, lost his seat. Importantly, almost a third of the new Parliament was made up of females.

3167 President Cabeza was mightily impressed by the "new" Zargah Empire. She considered that her stance on the issue had ensured that change had taken place. In response she invited herself to visit the Emperor & the new Parliament.

The Emperor did not really know what to do, but in order to ensure good relations with the UFP, he agreed to the visit. After all, it had been a long time since such an event & she had supported him in his reform efforts. Thankfully the visit went smoothly. The Empress Dizana & President Cabeza got along well - which was good because Emperor Chezron made every excuse he could to be elsewhere.

Beaming with the success of her Zargah policies, President Cabeza went confidently into the presidential elections. And so she should have. The UFP, under her care, had continued to enjoy prosperity. Although a few raised concerns over the condition of the military & her sometimes rash decisions like with the Zargah, few major points were won. Only in the area of "does the President have any policies other than her predecessors…" was a few political points made against her. Having said that, however, few were surprised when Cabeza was returned to office for her second term.

3168 In the latest census figures, it is revealed that the population of Mars has reached 1.5 million inhabitants. This was somewhat remarkable considering the planet’s history of the Looney Duel Toons. Yet government subsidies & a growing economy have ensured that UFP citizens were willing to live on the planet. UHS activities & research into the dreaded Looney Duel Toons had, over the centuries, ensured that the condition was almost non-existent. Only on rare occasions, where the treatment was refused by ignorant people, did the condition occur.

On Earth’s other neighbour Venus, the migration programs had been even more successful than Mars. The census showed that an amazing 4.8 billion inhabitants now resided on the planet. Furthermore, the census data indicated that the local born population on Venus, for the first time, out numbered immigrates, albeit slightly. One of the reasons why Venus had shot ahead so quickly was its large military bases. Although Earth & Mars were also ports for the 1st Home Fleet, Venus had become the defacto headquarters. This, combined with large space docks for construction, ensured that millions were guaranteed employment: both military & civilians.

3169 As UPX got up to full speed with their exploration programs, the latest version of BigEar came online. Said to be the most sensitive scanner array yet produced, it did not let its makers down. Incorporating technology from the military, BigEar could now scan well beyond the previous 1 000 light year limit with accurate results.

Already plans were put in motion to investigate two promising locations where communication signals were identified. These plans would witness the return of the long range scout ships. Like centuries before, they would be fitted out to travel distances over 1 000 light years. They would also need to be self contained, due to the distances required for travel, for up to five years. Fortunately, thanks to the latest MMD technology, travel times would be cut in half compared to the old UPX Discovery2 days.

3170 As the economy of the UFP continued to grow, so too did numerous companies. In one of the most remarkable achievements of any corporation, the expediential growth of the MICC on Millennium was without parallel. What had started as a "backyard" computer company, had become the largest corporation in the Federation. Not only were its products cheap, but they were also good.

Now MICC had factories spread across the UFP. And unlike other computer hardware companies, MICC had also gotten into software. Importantly, it was the company’s software division that ensured that its growth would continue. Although its competitors complained about "packaging", MICC was adamant that they were not monopolising the market.

Congress, on the other hand, decided to investigate the allegations of MICC’s competitors. They concluded that, although some of MICC’s practices were sometimes questionable, the allegations were rejected. Several Senators actually congratulated MICC for the thousands of jobs that they had created. Others stated that MICC actually encouraged competition between the various computer companies. Needless to say, those Senators that were favourable to MICC often had factories based on their respective planets.

3171 As the terra-forming on Ganymede was nearing completion, UPX decided to commence with the terra-forming on Castillo. Like Ganymede, it was hoped that the process would open up another habitable "planet" in Earth’s solar system. UPX at one point even suggested that Earth’s Moon could be terra-formed into a mini Earth, but this was rejected out right.

UPX was also happy to announce that its first long range scouting vessel was launched at Mars space dock. The UPX Apollo would have nine sisters. Not only would they be able travel vast distances in space, but they would be able to travel back in time as well. Their massive hulls ensured that supplies permitted a five year mission range. But there was more.

The Apollo Class incorporated the latest in technology that the UFP had to offer. It was fitted out with the latest Nazzdorra, Tima, BigEar, BigMouth & MMD. Its weapons were also impressive, giving it the firepower of the average UDF battlecruiser. Although the fitting of a BlackStar Beam Array was extremely controversial, memories of the UPX Discovery2 were hard to forget even after 1 000 years.

3172 While on a time exploration mission to Earth’s past, the UPX Wentworth was to attempt to answer the ages old question "How did life start on the planet?" It was an extremely difficult question to answer. With no fixed date, it was almost impossible to send a ship back to monitor the historic event. Several such missions had been conducted with no results.

What had made things even more difficult was the Battle of Existence. Clearly this period in time for UPX was out of the question. Luckily, data collected from the surviving UDF ships from the battle, had indicated that Earth at this time was a lifeless rock. It appeared that sometime afterwards, a period of five million years, life began. However, it could possibly take five million missions before UPX could record the event.

The UPX Wentworth, considering the odds, got lucky. While conducting one of its numerous scans of the planet, the crew noticed that a large chunk of space debris was about to enter the Earth’s atmosphere. Scans of the debris indicated it as an Essence Ancients reactor core. Although the UDF tried to clear up as much debris as possible after the Battle of Existence, much was missed.

Considering the possible contamination that the core could spread on the planet, the captain of the UPX Wentworth tried to intercept it. Its efforts, however, were too late. Before they could get to the Essence core, it had already dropped too low into the atmosphere for the Wentworth to follow. The entire crew watched with much concern as the reactor core plunged towards the surface. Concern turned into alarm as the ship’s scanners located the landing area.

The reactor core crash landed into the primordial soup made up of the building blocks of life. The core exploded upon impact. For a few kilometres in diameter, much of the soup was vaporised. Further out from the centre of the explosion, the radiation killed off any chance for the primordial soup to produce life. Crew members hurried about in near hysteria thinking that the Essence Ancients had finally succeeded in the destruction of mankind. No one knew how much longer they had to live.

Then as suddenly as the scanners showed the destruction of the reactor core & the surrounding area, the scanners began to show new alerts: important alerts: amazing alerts. It took a while for it to sink into the minds of the crew, but they had just witnessed their birth. Although the radiation from the core destroyed the primordial soup around it, further out the radiation had zapped the molecules that was essential for life. In a small zone, which resemble a ring circling the destruction zone, the molecules joined for the very first time. In doing so, the most basic life form, the ancestor to all life on Earth, was born. It was totally ironic - the race that the Essence Ancients had tried to exterminate was actually born thanks to them.

The presidential elections were a rather quiet affair. Government activity, during President Cabeza second term, had quietly soldiered on. Unlike President Cabeza first term, few controversies had occurred. Her successor, Carlo Sihayo from Earth, had every intention of keeping the UFP that way. Like Cabeza, Sihayo was keen on social policies. Also, being an ex-UPX employee, the exploration agency would be assured five more years of financial support.

3173 UPX, after getting the final all clear from UHS, opened Ganymede for colonisation. A few fears were raised about the Looney Duel Toons, but intensive research concluded that only the light from Lucifer would dominate the "planet". The Sun was too far away to have any impact.

Upon opening the "planet", UPX established a major presence. Its original intension was to have a large research facility to support missions on Europa, the terra-forming operations on Castillo, & monitoring Lucifer. As the UPX base grew, however, it soon became the largest in the UFP. It was not long before UPX then approached President Sihayo about having UPX taking Ganymede over as its home.

Unlike several UFP agencies, UPX never had a permanent home. In fact the agency was like a nomad. Although it was originally headquartered on Earth, it has had twenty one moves since then. Needless to say, much of its budget was often lost on these moves. Having a permanent base was rather logical.

President Sihayo agreed. Ganymede would enter the UFP as a sovereign entity, albeit with a small population at first. This grew, of cause, as UPX personnel & their families settled on Ganymede. By the end of the year, 2 million UFP citizens from every member specie lived on the new "planet". It was the Federation’s first true multi-racial "planet".

3174 As had been their fundamental policy, the Unis population continued to rapidly increase in numbers. Census data indicated that their population had reached the 10 million mark. Many fellow UFP citizens believed that Unis numbers were in fact higher, as it appeared that members of the Uni race were everywhere. Indeed they were. Like the Humans, they had a need to know what was out there. Furthermore, the growth of the MICC ensured that company officers were established on most planets & at least one Unis was located at these offices.

The Unis were also in the various government institutions. Naturally this included the UDF. Well over 250 000 Unis had volunteered & served in the defence forces. Considering their low numbers, it was a remarkable number. Many wondered if Millennium was still inhabited. Surprising, six of the ten million remained on their home planet. Most of these six million, however, had spent some time elsewhere in the UFP. They had the record for being the most travelled specie. And thanks to MICC, they were also the most wealthy specie.

3175 Although the latest BigEar had been operational for some years now, UPX was disappointed that only a few potential locations were identified as having possible space faring civilisations. One was about 1 100 light years slightly inward of Avakous. It was the most promising of three. The next was along the rim some 1 000 light years from Honshu. Like the first location, it too appeared to have a space faring civilisation. Two Apollo scout ships would be sent to investigate.

The third, however, was politically difficult to send a mission. Located some 1 500 light years inward of the nearest UFP territory, it meant that any mission to investigate would need to go through Cordah territory. Although the UFP & the Cordah were at peace, the Cordah were nonetheless suspicious of any UFP action. Even trade between the UFP & the Cordah was restricted. Their relations with the Zargah were no better. They were, though, content to remain behind their own borders.

3176 After much discussion, President Sihayo gave the authorisation to occupy the Essence region of space. The decision came as a shock to everyone. Needless to say it was extremely controversial. UPX had been, for the last few years, wanting to get back to Essence & continue their exploration work. At first President Sihayo & the UDF were against it, but eventually UPX convinced the President otherwise. The UDF were still against it, but were overruled. Furthermore, the President ordered UDF to escort the UPX expedition & "… station necessary forces on & around Essence to ensure protection to UFP citizens, property & interests."

The Joint Chiefs were quick to point out that the UDF was not the force that it was twenty-five years ago. More modern ships would be required if these orders were to be carried out. After some negotiations, the UDF got what it wanted. The budget to the UPX & other areas would have to be cut back, but the UDF had a point. Although its ships were powerful, they were also getting old.

At the head of the "Essence Fleet" an aging Sparta class ship, the UDF Hermes, led the UPX & UDF ships back to Essence after a 30 year absence. When the public & Congress heard the news, not everyone was happy. Although nothing had been seen or heard of the Essence Ancients for years now, that did not mean that re-occupation of their home planet would not see them return.

3177 The UPX Athena, an Apollo class ship, left Avakous for its first long distance journey. It would take about a year to reach the location 1 100 light years away that was identified by BigEar. Although the ship could travel the distance in half this time, it would conduct several secondary missions along the way at various points of interest. It would also be cautious upon its arrival. Before any attempt at First Contact would be made, careful analysis of the new civilisation would take place. This, in itself, may take six months. After all, they may not be the friendly type & welcome the UPX ship in the appropriate manner.

In the Presidential elections, the UPX Athena mission had no impact. In fact the Athena mission virtually got no media attention at all. That was mostly reserved for the Essence re-occupation. Although many UFP citizens had dismissed any possible danger, many others had not. Some members of Congress were livid. President Sihayo came in for much abuse. Yet although the protests were loud, his main opposition presidential candidate, this time from Honshu, never had the numbers in the end. President Sihayo was re-elected, albeit with a small majority.

3178 The UPX Athena’s mission was a brilliant success. The crew had charted 1 100 light years of unknown space. Although it could not linger long at any one spot during its journey, a number of solar systems appeared promising & would be earmarked for further investigation. Numerous other phenomenon would also be worthy of investigation in the future, but this was not the ship’s primary mission.

The civilisation that the Athena discovered was the Terran Federation. First Contact was made soon after the ship’s arrival as it was obvious that the Terrans were a peaceful & civilised society. In many respects the Terrans mirrored the UFP. A multi-racial democratic federation had been established some 200 years earlier between six different species. Fourteen planets made up the Terran’s territory. Although at first cautious (the Terrans had recently fought off a dreadful enemy), they nonetheless welcomed the UPX ship.

Diplomatic negotiations took place whereupon trade & friendship treaties were signed. It was agreed that Embassies be established between the two federations. The UFP set theirs up immediately, while a Terran ship would accompany the Athena back to the UFP & establish their embassy on Epsilon. Without doubt it was one of the great diplomatic moments in UFP history.

As news of the Athena mission was arriving at Epsilon, the UPX Apollo was departing for its long term mission. Like the Athena, it would travel the 1 000 light years in about a year. Its mission profile was the same. Upon leaving Honshu, it would stop along the way at points of interest. Then when it arrived at the targeted location, it would analyse the society before making First Contact.

3179 Although the general public opinion was positive over contact with the Terran Federation, not everyone was happy. Basically it was over the name. The people of Innocence had always called themselves Terra or Terrans. It was the Humans that had given them the name Innocence & it remained that way ever since. The Humans said it was to avoid confusion; the name Terra or Terrans had often been applied to them. This situation, though, seldom appeased the Innocence people.

Now it would become even more confusing, especially as Terran Federation government officials, traders & tourists, started coming to the UFP. A similar scenario was reciprocated in the Terran Federation as Earth Terrans & Innocence Terrans met the Terran Terrans. Of cause, the Terran Terrans were not really Terrans as such. Like on Earth, Terra in Latin means "soil". In the Terran Federation, it means the same thing - "soil". Thus, the word Terran was seleected as a sign of union - they are all joined in communion by their most common item: soil.

The Innocence people, though, saw the latest Terrans as a threat to their heritage. As previously, they applied once more to the UFP Congress to have their name changed to Terran. The Human members of Congress voted against the change as they saw it as an attack upon them. In a compromise, the Human members did agree that they would not reserve the word for themselves. This the Innocence members rejected as condescending. In the end no agreement was reached. The Innocence members even stated at one stage, that they would only answer to the word Terran & not Innocence. Needless to say, the Humans refused to call the members from Innocence Terrans & eagerly used other "colourful" names in addition to Innocence.

The Terran Federation Ambassador was amused by these workings of Congress. Clearly, it was not the UFP’s finest hour, as ludicrous arguments carried on over the word Terran between the Humans & the Innocence. When asked by CNN what he thought about the UFP Congress & government in general, he replied with a wirily grin; "I see your democracy is not too dissimilar from ours…"

Meanwhile, as the ridiculous Terran debates were going on in Congress, the UPX Apollo some 1 500 light years away, made successful First Contact with a civilisation known as the Quence Republic. This society of some 8 billion people were spread over three planets. Like the Terran Federation & the UFP, they had a democratic civilisation. Unlike either federation, they had never made First Contact with anyone & had been spared the ravages of interstellar war. Friendship & trade treaties were signed & ambassadors swapped. Thankfully no one in the UFP argued over the name Quence.

3180 High on the success of the UPX expeditions to the Terran Federation & the Quence Republic, President Sihayo decided to take the opportunity to expand the UFP. The UFP borders had been static for some centuries, despite the fact that UPX explorations had journeyed far beyond the borders. The problem was in which direction.

The region known as the Great Void was out as this area was sparse & the few habitable planets where already settled. None of them wished to join the UFP. Expansion around the Honshu & Avakous Sectors would send the wrong signals to the Nazzernich & the Zargah, not to mention the UFP’s new friends. There was only one area left: the region inward of Bizan.

This region, of cause, was the Essence region. UFP had, except during the Ancients War, maintained a large presence in the region. Although no civilian colonies had been established, several research ones had been. It was also well known that no other civilisation contested the area except the Essence Ancients, & they seemed to have given up the contest. Thus with one stroke of the pen, President Sihayo annexed a region of space of about 300 light years by 300 light years. It was the largest addition to the UFP since its first days.

3181 The Essence Annexation was not overly popular with many citizens. It was seen as only inviting the Essence Ancients to return. But the UPX Essence expedition had reported no sign of the Essence. Likewise the UDF Essence task force saw nothing. This, however, did not calm the critics.

To ensure that the Essence Annexation could not be rescinded easily, President Sihayo rushed several bills through Congress ensuring the new territory would remain in the UFP. Two colonies were immediately opened for settlement. The first was the planet Essence itself, while the other was located 50 light years inward of Bizan. Although Essence was not very popular, for obvious reasons, the other colony was.

Named Amerigo, the planet’s two continents resembled North & South America of Earth. Although it was about 80 percent water, unlike Pacifica (90 percent water) the weather was rather mild. Vegetation ensured fertile soil & agriculture soon became the planet’s leading industry.

It was not long before colonists thus arrived. Many came from Sierra. The difference between the two planets was remarkable - Sierra the rugged, somewhat arid planeet; Amerigo a beautiful blue fertile planet. Generous immigration schemes ensured people would come. It surprised few when 4 million UFP citizens settled on the planet by year’s end.

3182 UPX reported that the Argie successfully tested their first Magnetic Space Warp Drive (MSWD). Since the UFP intervention centuries ago, the Argie had rapidly matured as a people. A few years after the UFP left under controversial circumstances, the various nations on the planet united under a planetary federation. The planetary government strived to bring social, political & economic reform to Argie. Within 50 years, these programs were reasonably successful.

Space, like for all the junior races, was again the final frontier. Not long after the UFP left Argie, space programs had quickly been developed. Soon satellites surrounded the planet. Probes were launched that visited their solar system. But nothing was found of the UFP. This only spurred the Argie on, but unlike the Humans, the Argie had to develop MSWD technology on their own.

The presidential elections were a rather heated affair. The achievements of the Argie were ignored as debate raged over the Essence Annexation. Numerous candidates opposed it & stated that if elected they would overturn the Annexation. UPX supported another of their old employees Antonia Garrett who wanted to keep the new territory. Surprisingly, Vice-President Sharman supported a withdrawal.

The UDF were in a quandary over the issue. They thought the Annexation was provocative, but hated the idea of surrendering UFP territory at any time - let alone to an enemy. Few candidates agreed with Garrett, but as debate continued, President Sihayo assured everyone who he supported. He also threw two spanners in the works.

First, he opened another planet in the Essence Sector called Corona. It, like Saturn & Saturn Prime, had magnificent planetary rings. Unlike Saturn Prime, it was rich & fertile. The northern ice pole appeared from space like a crown sitting on top on the planet: hence the name. Its oceans covered 65 percent of the planet, while its five continents had fertile soil. Vegetation was abundant & the only life forms present. It was considered ideal, thus, for colonisation & was opened immediately for settlement.

Secondly, he released all the legislation dealing with the Essence Annexation. It soon became evident that, apart from removing the colonists from the three planets, not to mention their Senators & Representatives from Congress, it would take years to "officially" withdraw from the new territory.

This, of cause, brought the wroth from the "withdrawal camp" upon President Sihayo, but it insured that Garrett could campaign as both a realist & a defender of citizen’s rights. It was great politics, albeit ethically questionable. Garrett became President with a small majority. The Essence Sector would remain in the UFP.

3183 The Argie conducted their first scouting mission. In a rather primitive (by UFP standards) ship called Alpha Explorer, they set off in the direction of the closet known UFP communication signals. A few weeks later, they arrived at Utopia. UDF had spotted the ship immediately it had jumped from Argie. However, UPX had forewarned everyone, so there were no rude surprises for either side.

Upon reaching Utopia, the Alpha Explorer was warmly welcomed. It was much different from the first encounter by both groups. Although they were about 1 200 years behind UFP standard, the Argie were not overawed. In fact it was the UFP diplomats who were taken aback. At the very first meeting, the Argie announced their intention to join the UFP. They wanted to bypass the usual swapping of ambassadors & several decades (if not centuries) of contact & sign up straight away. They figured that it had already been two centuries of contact - they had no intention of waiting another two.

Of cause it was not that easy. But the Argie would be permitted to join. It would be a phased membership that would take several years. This would allow the Argie to get up to speed with the UFP & ensure that no culture shock would occur. After all, the Argie had just left their solar system for the very first time. The Milky Way Galaxy was a lot to take in all at once - not even the UFP had managed that yet!

3184 Now that the Essence Sector was firmly part of the UFP, President Garrett ordered it to be defended as any part of the Federation. Although the UDF had a large task force, which included a Sparta Class vessel in the sector, this was a rather ad hoc force with no official standing. Upon request, President Garrett authorised the establishment of the 16th Fleet to be based at Essence. Naturally its first ships would be those of the task force. But, with an increase in the UDF budget, more ships would be joining them soon.

Along with the establishment of the 16th Fleet, NGW settled another new base. Although NGW D1 had continued to function as normal, even with Enigma. NGW had wanted for some time, a base that mirrored D1. Now, in a quiet corner of the Essence Sector, a new semi-arid planet called Oracle by NGW, would achieve this. Furthermore, by being so far away, it could also be home, like Enigma, to some of the most secret of UFP projects.

3185 As the second phase of UFP membership passed for Argie, a number of Terran Federation officials raised the idea of closer ties with the UFP. Although trade & friendship treaties were in full operation, nothing had been done with defence. The Terrans also were impressed by the freedoms enjoyed throughout the UFP, even though some eccentric political debates (like over the name Terran) did take place.

At first President Garrett was somewhat cool on the idea. A defence treaty would mean that new enemies would come onto the scene. Since the Ancients War, the UFP had no enemies. Although the occasional border violation occurred by a smuggler, peace had settled across all of Federation space. But it was well known that the Terrans had only recently won a long war with the Passalous. And the Passalous were still around being aggressive as ever.

President Garrett turned the defence treaty background research over to the UDF. They too, were not overly keen on spreading their forces over an area that would include Terran space. Thus, in total secret, the UDF Samos (Sparta Class) was dispatched on a covert mission to spy upon the UFP’s new friend & its enemies. The mission was intended to take two years.

3186 As the negotiations continued between the UFP & the Terrans, the Nazzernich added to the original Terran approach by suggesting the establishment of a loose confederation. Needless to say it would include any civilisation that wanted to join. It would be particularly beneficial to the Nazzernich as they "bordered" the UFP & the newly discovered Terran Federation.

Having found such support from the Nazzernich, the Terrans likewise sided with the them. They began negotiations immediately & it was not long before they put forward a joint submission before President Garrett. Once again the President did not know what to do. Although the UFP had had a long relationship with the Nazzernich, the Terrans were new on the scene. These problems would pale into insignificance as events were about to takes place.

The Passalous had gotten wind through their spy network that the Terrans had new & powerful friends. More importantly, there was a military treaty under discussion. They also learnt that this powerful new friend was not all that keen on the idea. Thus they decided not to wait. With little warning, the Passalous attacked.

The UDF Samos was quietly conducting its "research" mission when its Nazzdorra equipment detected the movements of the Passalous fleets. Even though 15 years ago the Passalous had been defeated, it was really more of a cease fire than a surrender. Not only had they kept their military intact, but had developed it further. Their technology, however, like the Terrans was centuries behind the UFP.

The Samos sent warning back to UDF command. President Garrett was informed, then immediately forwarded the information to the Terran Ambassador. The Ambassador was stunned, more so at the UFP than the pending Passalous attack. Furthermore, the Terrans did not have the communications technology in order to send a message, at the speeds required, to get the information from Epsilon to the Terran capital Homus. President Garrett said that she would look after it. The UFP & Terran Federation had just signed a defacto defence treaty.

President Garrett ordered the UDF to have the Samos intervene. The Samos was also to relay the necessary military information to the Terran military forces. The President also ordered that a task force be sent to support the Terrans. All this was done at once. The Terran Ambassador was amazed at the speed. Without, however, an order being issued, the Samos captain first ensured he was out of Terran Territory before revealing his ship’s presence to anyone.

Like the Terran Ambassador on Epsilon, the Terrans were stunned by the appearance of the Samos & its ability, not only to be in almost instant contact with their Ambassador 1 500 light years away, but of the massive vessel itself. The oncoming Passalous attack seemed a secondary concern. Although a few in the Terran government asked what the UDF vessel was doing near their territory, few pushed the point - especially when the captain stated thaat his mission was to keep an eye on the Passalous, just in case a situation like now occurred. It was true of cause, while at the same time being a total lie.

The Samos left the secondary Passalous forces for the Terrans & intercepted the main enemy fleet. Before the Passalous knew what was happening, a huge moon appeared before them. At the same time they were ordered to stand down. Naturally they refused & attacked. As in previous futile attacks, the weapons of the Passalous were useless against the massive Spartan.

Unlike previous replies, however, the captain of the Spartan was not going to be too "understanding" Having studied the Passalous for the last six months, the captain of the Samos had grown a distinct dislike towards them. Then were savage with few redeeming features. The captain decided there was only one way to teach these animals - he gave the order to open fire.>

The BlackStar Beam Arrays let loose a dreadful salvo. The Passalous had no chance against the terrible destruction. The information sent back to Terran Military Command of the battle shocked the entire staff into silence. They had been all briefed that the UFP was powerful, but nothing could have readied them for this. Within a few minutes the battle was over. The once main Passalous fleet was no more.

When news reached the other Passalous forces supporting the main fleet, they immediately withdrew. The Terrans, however, decided to pursue. Victory was theirs within a few weeks as all Passalous defences crumbled. For the first time, the Passalous truly surrendered. The Terrans finally had peace, albeit after two centuries of war.

3187 Having established a defacto defence treaty, the UFP & Terran Federation made it official. It was defensive in nature, but it ensured that the Terrans would not have to fight again by themselves. It was an important step in the continuing negotiations over the confederation. Importantly it put the Terrans on an equal footing with the Nazzernich.

The Presidential elections were once again a heated affair. Although the Essence Annexation was still an issue, the Passalous War & relations with the Terran Federation were the hot topics. Many citizens expressed concern that the UFP were going to get dragged into someone else’s war. This was besides the fact that the Passalous had been defeated with no UDF casualties. President Garrett was quick to point out that only Terran Federation personnel had suffered casualties while defending their democratic society. Again the President took the higher moral ground as in the previous election. Again this ensured that she was elected President for another term.

3188 Now that NGW had settled in on Oracle, NGW could begin its first big project in years. After decades of research on the Nazzernich organic ships, not too mention the advanced genetic work that created the Unis, NGW wanted to build the first UFP organic ships. Surprisingly, it was a lot harder than manufacturing a humanoid. Creating the Unis was easy in comparison to producing a living ship that had weapons & drive systems equal to the current UDF ships.

Unlike previously, however, NGW was not going to begin the Organic Ship Program (OSP) without authorisation from the President & Congress. Not only was NGW fully aware of the trouble of the past, especially over the UniBots project, but Congress has past legislation that restricted such research. When UDF was informed of the proposal, they were sceptical, but President Garrett believed it was worth while & agreed to authorise it. The Congress Defence Committee only narrowly authorised it with a majority of two votes.

3189 As a spin off of the OSP, NGW approached MICC to become a major sub-contractor for the program. It was somewhat ironic that the race that NGW had genetically created, would agree to the work after evicting NGW from Millennium. But that was history & this was business. Primarily, NGW needed a supercomputer in order to run the ships & MICC were the best in the business.

In the old NGW facilities, now a MICC factory, research began on the organic supercomputer. Like the organic ships, this too would be a first for UFP technology. Many Unis had reservations over such research as many argued that there was little difference between what they were doing now & what NGW did with them only a few decades ago.

These debates were kept civil as the Millennium planetary government made up of Unis conducted planetary celebrations in recognition of the birth of the forty millionth member of their race. Although 40 million seemed a small number compared to every other race of the UFP, it spoke little for the remarkable achievements that the Unis had accomplished during their short existence.

3190 President Garrett opened another colony in the Essence Sector. Pompadour, located 50 light years from Amerigo, gained its name from its red appearance. Many commented that it reminded them of the appearance of Mars prior to terra-forming. Unlike Mars, however, it had a breathable atmosphere. Just as important, it had scarce minerals in abundance.

By the end of the year, Pompadour was being mined extensively. Environmental groups had established bases on the planet & ensured that the environmental laws of the UFP were strictly adhered too. Soon, even with the scrutiny, mining production was larger than Hollows was at its height. Some problems, however, did occur as the planet’s underwater seas often flooded the deep mines. Engineers had to develop unique methods for mining in several locations using submarines.

As the Confederation negotiations continued between the Terran, Nazzernich & UFP, the Zargah expressed an interest to sit in on the meetings. They would not publicly commit to any confederation, although informally they thought it was a logical step. At the meetings, though, they did not even add a comment at the talks. They were, however, keen to know if the confederation had anything to offer them. Considering that the UFP & Zargah had become close allies, it was impossible to say no, especially when the Nazzernich supported Zargah inclusion.

3191 UPX, after UHS gave the final clearance, opened up Castillo for colonisation. Like Ganymede, its sister moon, it had been modelled on Earth. Another blue body now existed in Mother’s solar system. Unlike Ganymede, it would be open to general colonisation. Immigrants, though, regardless of the generous grants, were loathed to move to Castillo. The Essence Sector Immigration Scheme offered better rewards, although the planet Essence itself was still avoided.

Castillo’s population was only 50, 000 after one year. Ganymede’s population, on the other hand, had continued to rapidly grow thanks to the several UPX installations on the moon. A space dock had even been constructed where UPX could now construct its own ships without having to order them from someone else. Thus UPX employees, their families, & support civilians flocked to the moon. All this activity had raised Ganymede’s population to 24 million.

3192 The Confederation Negotiations reached their conclusions. Before they did, however, the Zargah surprisingly added a demand of their own. It was over the societal structure of the Nazzernich. Although democratic, the Nazzernich had a two tiered society. This had occurred for reasons discussed earlier, but the Zargah found it hard to commit to a democratic confederation that was nevertheless somewhat officially discriminate.

The Nazzernich was annoyed at this & quickly pointed out that the Zargah denied the vote to females until recently. The Zargah Chancellor Seczor accepted the criticism, but added that this fault had been rectified. The solution came from President Garrett in the form of a phased confederation. Each sovereign member would join as they currently were according to the negotiated conditions, while reforms would take place over a period of time. Importantly each sovereign member would retain overall independence no matter when. Having said all that, referendums would be needed to place in all four sovereigns in 3196 before any confederation would take place.

The new Confederation soon became a major issue in the UFP presidential elections. Many citizens did not like the idea, & the more extreme parties certainly made their presence felt. Even though the extreme groups whipped up the issue into something akin to an invasion, the more level headed candidates clearly showed up the rabble rousers.

The leading candidate Paul Murat, a Confederation negotiator from Earth, was quick to point out the real situation. The UFP had given nothing away. The same relations would continue with the Zargah. Likewise the relations with the Nazzernich would remain basically the same. Only the Terran Federation would gain easier access to UFP markets & technology. Basically the Confederation would merely recognise the current situation. Thankfully, most of the UFP population agreed. Murat was easily elected President of the UFP.

3193 As a result of the Confederation announcement, the Cordah stated their objections. Their fear was that a powerful union that included that Zargah, as one of the two main corner stones, would only threaten their security. Needless to say, the Cordah are paranoid at the best of times & the Confederation only feed this paranoia.

After the Cordah announced their objections, the Zargah Indorra stations along the border reported an increase in Cordah military activity. Consequently, the Zargah protested this increase in Cordah military activity, but their protests were ignored. When President Murat offered to negotiate in order to try to convince the Cordah that there was nothing to worry about, once again the Cordah refused.

The Zargah military, although strong, were concerned. Little contact had been made with the Cordah over the years. In fact since the political, social & economic reforms had revolutionised the Zargah, relations with the Cordah had slowly become worse. A similar pattern occurred between the UFP & the Cordah. The result was that little was known about current Cordah abilities. Furthermore, there was no neutral zone between the Zargah & the Cordah. Both shared a border extending for 200 light years.

3194 The Cordah crossed the border at several points. Thanks to Indorra, the Zargah are able to intercept the Cordah fleets early. Various battles took place, although it would be fair to say that none of them were on the scale of the Ancients War. Having said that, the Zargah lost a number of these encounters. The Zargah military fears were correct. In the last century, the Cordah had dramatically improved their weapons & ships.

President Murat, after hearing of the Zargah defeats, immediately ordered the UDF to support their ally. Although the Zargah had not asked for help yet, they immediately accepted the reinforcements. As the main Cordah fleet approached Capital, it was set upon by the Combined Fleet that included two Sparta Class ships. Out numbered four to one, the Cordah had no chance. The survivors escaped back to Cordah space.

After hearing of the defeat at the Battle of Capital, the other Cordah fleets withdrew to their space. The Zargah, though, were in a fighting mood & pursued where possible. Soon it was the Cordah who were invaded & fought for their lives. Although in many areas, the Cordah were able to hold up the Allied forces, the large Combined Fleet moved in on the Cordah home planet.

Soon battle commenced which resulted in the Cordah defeat. Instead of attacking the planet, however, peace negotiations were requested bye the UFP. The Allies had no intention of destroying the Cordah, even though the Cordah believed the reverse. Nonetheless, the Cordah opened dialogue & a cease fire was arranged. For all intents & purposes, the Cordah War was over.

3195 The Cordah-Allies negotiations were concluded & peace was officially declared. President Murat made several insurances towards the Cordah, who although not happy over all the conditions, nevertheless were intelligent enough to admit that they stood no chance if the war recommenced. The Cordah Peace Treaty would witness a non-military zone along both sides of the border. Furthermore, inspectors from both sides would be stationed in the other’s territory to ensure that no military build up could occur without the other knowing.

Other aspects of the treaty would witness better diplomatic relations between all the sovereign powers. In other areas, trade would be increased & above all culture exchanges would hopefully ensure that paranoia & mistrust would be a thing of the past. Thoughts of another peace station, where negotiations & discussions could take place on neutral ground, were rejected. Only the UFP pushed the idea.

3196 The Confederation Referendum took place in the four hopeful sovereigns. The result varied between the four. The highest yes vote came surprisingly from the Nazzernich who, it was thought, may reject the referendum due to their "associate membership" status. As expected, the Terran Federation voted yes with a clear majority.

In the two main member regions, it was a different story. Although the Zargah were grateful for UFP assistance during the recent Cordah War, many citizens were deeply concerned about a UFP takeover. Debates over this issue would witness some nasty scenes between opposing camps, but it was the young female vote that saw the referendum being successful. This group was more than happy to reinforce the rights that they gained not too long ago.

In the UFP, the referendum was very close. Mirroring the concerns expressed my many in the Zargah Empire, many UFP citizens yet again were concerned about a Zargah takeover. Unlike the Zargah, there had been no civil rights issue. The UFP citizenship already enjoyed such rights. Considering there were no political/social benefits as such, the moral & practical issues came to the fore. The issue that tipped the scales was economics. By being in the Confederation, various tariffs & customs duties would cease. Thus for business, trade, tourism & so forth would be relieved of these charges. Still, the referendum was only successful by one percent.

With the referendum being successful (albeit narrowly), negotiations on how to implement the conditions of the Confederation took place. To ensure that these initial changes would be implemented with little disruption, the Confederation would come into existence in 3200, giving the powers that be four years grace.

3197 UPX explorations continued to expand & became more ambitious. One such mission was to discover how Earth’s Moon was created. There had been various theories, but the main one had always been that a large meteorite smashed into the Earth while it was still forming. Various attempts to go back to record the actual event had taken place, yet none had been successful.

That was all to change with the UPX Lewis-Clarke. The Lewis-Clarke’s mission, like many similar ones previously, was to go back in time to the approximate moment when the Moon was formed. This approximate moment, of cause, was a period covering some 10 million years. Finding the exact date was impossible. The UPX ship would monitor the events on the infant Earth for six months & return.

As before, nothing new occurred. But in the forth month, it all happened. The Earth was in a molten state & as meteorites crashed into its surface, geysers of molten rock would erupt on the surface. All this was rather routine. It thus came as a rude shock when alarms began to come to life on the bridge. A time-space anomaly was in process which no one could explain. More importantly, the ship was in danger & had to quickly move. And they moved just in time.

Out of the space-time disruption, a battered UDF Thermopylae emerged into space. The Lewis-Clarke immediately attempted to contact the huge ship, but there was no reply. Scans of the old Spartan indicated that no life could be found on board. The captain of the Lewis-Clarke had at least, he thought, discovered what had happened to the ship, that had been declared missing after the Battle of Existence.

Within a few minutes, however, more warnings were raised. It soon became obvious that the Thermopylae was on a collision course with Earth. All that the crew of the Lewis-Clarke could do was to watch the huge ship continue on its way. Five minutes later, the ship smashed into the infant planet. The area, that would one day become the Pacific Ocean, erupted in a huge explosion as the Thermopylae became covered in molten lava.

The momentum of the huge ship & the force of the explosion, however, ricocheted this molten mass that was once a ship off the surface. The view appeared horrific as this violent event took place. The molten mass, now spinning, moved off into space. At first it appeared as it would continue, but as the gravity of the Earth soon took hold, it soon slowed down.

After a number of weeks the molten mass, which had formed into a globe, began to orbit the infant Earth. It was a fitting end to the Thermopylae. A timeless monument to a ship & crew that had served Earth so well. Now it would stand in silent vigilant over the planet for eternity.

Riding high on the success of the Cordah War & the Confederation, President Murat went to the presidential polls with much confidence. The election campaign & the actual elections, however, were not that easy. A lot of unrest continued over the Confederation, regardless that the UFP would lose no sovereign powers. The election, as a result, ended up reflecting the referendum from the previous year. Similarly, President Murat was narrowly returned by only one percent of the vote.

3198 The UPX Lewis-Clarke returned from its mission. At first, UPX personnel thought the Lewis-Clarke crew crazy over their discovery. Even when analysis of the mission data commenced, UXP at first thought the computer recordings had been faked. But when the records were verified beyond repute, everyone was stunned.

It did not take long before UPX was digging up the Moon in order to collect rocks for sampling. Drilling also took place in order to gain samples of the Moon’s core. All this was returned to Ganymede & intensely examined. The results were mixed. The surface rock samples returned no evidence other than that already known. But the core samples were different. Although no solid evidence was discovered of the Thermopylae (ship parts etc), there was indirect evident. The core samples clearly indicated that minerals & elements, that were involved with the construction of the Thermopylae, were present.

Although the core samples were not conclusive, the Lewis-Clarke evidence was. As the news broke about this discovery, most people reacted as UPX did at first. President Murat, however, did not. He was actually amazed. Furthermore, he was comforted to know the eventual fate of his grandfather who was a lieutenant on the great ship. Considering the origins of the Moon then, the President renamed it Thermopylae. The gesture was politely accepted by those living on Earth & Thermopylae, but everyone continued to call it the Moon.

3199 The population of Earth’s solar system reached record levels. While Earth itself had continued to hover at 6.5 billion, growth elsewhere was phenomenal. Venus had now reached 6 billion. Mars population had reached the 2 billion mark. All three planets were now at levels that was believed to be their maximum sustainable levels. The result was that strict immigration laws had to be introduced.

Only out at Lucifer was immigration encouraged. On the UPX home planet, the population had reached 39 million. About half were involved with UPX operations in some form, but a sizeable civilian population had also developed. Castillo, however, continued to have a small population that had only reached 1 million. As a footnote, the Unis population had reached 200 million.

3200 The ushering in of the Confederation witnessed the ushering in of a new age. The Fourth Age was over. The UFP had battled off new deadly enemies, made friends from old enemies & had once again discovered the amazing & unknown. Although only a short period of history, the events of the Fourth Age would effect the future forever.

The Fourth Age, however, really belonged to the Humans. With the political reforms on Earth, this insured that the leadership of the UFP would be exclusively Human. It also ensured that during the most darkest of times, the UFP would survive. Fundamentally, the Fourth Age witnessed very existence of the Human race. And through the sacrificial efforts of the Humans, this existence was guaranteed. Thus the whole UFP would likewise continue to exist.

In the years & ages that followed, no other period would be dominated by the efforts by the Humans (except the Second Age). That is not to say that they faded out & died away. As we all know, it was the reverse. Inevitably the burden was shared by their friends & allies. The Human’s early dreams of creating a world of peace & prosperity was part of this burden. But it was really the Human’s spirit that bought the others along. And it was this infectious Human spirit that spread throughout the UFP, Confederation, & all those civilisations that followed. In the end, everyone regardless of race, would be proud to be called Human.

Forward To Epilogue

Fourth Age Glossary (2950-3200)

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