Tal-Pandora

Summary

The only safe gateway inside of the Ucual system from the surrounding systems, the Tal-Pandora, run by the UTA (Ucual Transit Authority), composed mainly of Phirrukup and ISA members, allows for safe trade and passage into Phirrus space. Sitting on the edge of the system, it is both far enough away from the rest of the heavenly bodies that it isn't bothered by the Phirruden, while still acting as a way station for outside visitors. After the Den-si rising on the Scorpio Stations, the ISA along with many Phirrukup, were pushed back to the way-point, and not long after, they garrisoned it. It has become the only transit station in the universe held by an entity other than by an independent authority. However, due to the growing disapproval of the ISA commanders in charge for their distinct "vice grip" mentality towards trade in the system, the UTA replaced them with more prudent diplomatic figures that would allow for a less sanctioned and freer trading system.

History

Closed for Business

Upon solar entry the Ucual Corporation wasted no time in constructing the gateway station at Tal-Pandora with the support of Syntek workers. This failsafe was constructed in case efforts failed and the scientific teams decided to abandon the covert mission early.

It was never used for its original purpose until decades had passed. Until that time it existed as an early outpost to launch-pad the system's growth when space was still an issue and the confines of the ships grew too much to bear.

Breach and Seizure

When the Inner Sol Alliance and Astrum forces moved on the suspicion that the system existed in hiding the Gateway station fell first. This was a strategic move that would allow them easier access to the system, and thankfully the Ucual Corporation was wise enough to offer up little to no resistance at the seizure.

Caught red handed in the act there was little the Ucual staffers could do as the Kolkka battle group breached into the system on its own power and descended upon the unguarded gateway.

UTA Inception

The military action that removed the Ucual Corporation from power was swift and decisive in the system, as such few people saw the need for a prolonged military holdout on Tal-Pandora. However, the ISA forces were not willing to give up control of the station as tensions brewed to a dangerous level with the continued militant action of the Den-Si. To have given up the station would have left the majority of the non-phirrus peoples without means of retreat should total conflict escalate.

Still, with time and a growing stalemate of idle sitting the pressure mounted and the Kolkka commanders were forced to establish a different figure-head to oversee the gateway. These pressures rose on the long-standing principle that all gateway stations are independent locations outside of traditional ownership, that for the betterment of mankind the gateways cannot and should not be seized and held in military action.

The UTA began here; lead by Phirrukup and outside human races alike. Thankfully this lightening of power helped to lessen some of the fear of a similar situation occurring like that of when the Ucual Corporation had controlled the station and limited transit through lies and deceit. While there are still restrictions on certain groups being allowed to pass through the system (i.e. mercenaries, etc.) the transit station has adopted a standardized "open-trade" policy.

After the flow of trade was allowed to expand, fewer incidents have been reported.

Government & Culture

ISA Holding

Despite the UTA direction for the gateway, the ISA still holds a small garrison on the outpost alongside a heavy Astrum police force. This gives the gateway a stale air, one of tension and a desire for change that seems to follow travelers throughout the system.

Despite this the station is a lively place, full of trade and growth. Thankfully the desire to trade, learn, and grow has almost always found a way to be stronger than the mistrust in men's hearts.

Points of Interest

Den-Si Transit

A sticking point with some is that the Den-Si Military Party and its supporters meet with strict transit rules when passing through the gateway. There is no question that this practice is profiling of the highest degree, but few can argue that there is no danger in unchecked transit of such hostile people. There are murmurs that the Den-Si seek enough money to build their own gateway station in the system, which would create the first system with two gateways.