"We have limited resources, and we have to police an entire star system with those resources. Rest assured that Admiral Po is doing all he can to ensure the best outcome for the people of Antares." This was the statement given by Marya Wutheren, the Intrepid's spokesperson, earlier today after no less than six requests for assistance with Hammer of Light and pirate attacks over the past two days were ignored by our stalwart defenders.

Less than twenty people were killed in these most recent attacks. Were this all, there would be reason enough to be outraged. Unfortunately, the economic damage goes far deeper. Exxon-Beckham suffered an estimated 340,000 credits in damages to their gas mining infrastructure and production capability. Rosh Korant, Exxon-Beckham's Director of Operations, commented on the attacks: "This isn't the first time we've suffered as a result of Antares' criminal underworld, but Exxon-Beckham is committed to rebuilding and recovering. I regret that no assistance was dispatched in time, and my deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends of those we lost today."

Antarian security pilots were among those who died as a result of the latest wave of aggression. Elissa Metaxas, owner of security contractor Megalith, noted that the attacks seem to be getting more organised: "There's been a definite increase in lethality and purpose. It's no longer just ragtag bandits wanting to make a quick buck or steal something shiny; these people are out to inflict damage and suffering, and even that's nothing compared to what the Hammer of Light is doing. We're just security groups; we're simply not equipped for this kind of stuff on a system-wide scale." Megalith's pilot's union echoed the sentiment, but also emphasized the good they've been doing. Many smaller security groups have heeded Megalith's call for help.

The <span class='italic'>pro bono</span> efforts of these contractors are nothing short of heroic, but on their own, they aren't enough. The continued oppression that we all face borders on terrorism, and with nothing but isolated security groups to defend us, how are any of us to survive? More than ever, Antares needs to be united to prevail. Luckily, I am not the only one who sees things this way. The Antares Federation, a political movement led by Ruoyu Zhou, has been slowly gaining support amongst the public. Zhou espouses the very tenets that are needed in this time of crisis: "Antares stands better on its own than it does with its hand being held. The GTA's made some very questionable decisions in recent times, and things simply need to change. I intend to catalyse that change by introducing true democracy, and thus accountability, in Antares' government. I can't do it alone, though. We all need to work together if we're going to restore our home to something we're proud of."

We've heard empty promises from the mouths of politicians before; only time will tell whether Zhou will back up her words with actions. Nevertheless, my readers can rest assured that I will report relevant developments as they emerge. Stay strong and keep fighting.

By: Kalev Ehin
Date: 10/28/2336
kalev.ehin@gulnaranet.gta
