text: 18 JUL 3301
  The Emperor Speaks out for Unity
  Although the Emperor showed some signs of frailty when he appeared before the Senate earlier today, his voice was firm as he called upon the assembled senators to work together and not against each other for the good of the Empire.
  “We live in times that hold great promise for our beloved Empire. The uncertainty of the past months has weakened our resolve and this cannot be allowed to continue. For too long some leaders of our society have vied against each other and squandered resources over a matter which will be guided by tradition.
  “As Emperor it is my duty to ensure the success of the Empire and its continuation long into the future. To that end the previously announced marriage with my good friend Florence Lavigny will proceed at the earliest opportunity. As the wedding has already been announced we will not have to wait the customary thirty days to conduct the ceremony, but we will still give time for wellwishers to attend. Preparations are in the process of being finalised and will be announced by the middle of next week.”
  His speech continued for thirty minutes and covered a range of topics including praising his long term friend Chancellor Anders Blaine for his stalwart support. The Emperor left the senate to a standing ovation and cheers from the normally businesslike senators.
  18 JUL 3301
  GalNet Weekly Expansion List
  Each week GalNat presents a short list of 10 of the 1745 minor factions currently expanding into new systems (*).
  i Bootis Democrats
  Workers of Gateway for Equality
  Gladutjin for Equality
  HIP 22006 Guardians of Tradition
  Chapter of Isinor
  Taso Wuhte Partners
  Andhrimi Crimson Travel PLC
  Confederacy of Akandi
  Cartel of Wolf 286
  Expansion occurs when a minor faction reaches a sufficient influence rating and there is a populated system within striking distance. The act of expansion is a costly one and the wealth and development rating suffers during the period of expansion.
  * Data is correct at time of publishing.