The Future...

It is the year 2336 CE, Lazarus has been settled now for over two hundred years and despite the various trials and tribulations; humanity has thrived. The question that now has to be asked is now that the continent has been extensively (though not completely) settled what next?

The return of the Calypso later on during the year will have a significant bearing upon future plans. UNPALAZ as well as UNEXCOM have plans in mind for the colony vessel and it's genius. Meanwhile Ascensions genius wishes for there to be serious effort in investigating three objects orbiting Lazarus.

The first is the planets satellite Opal which appears to have an atmopshere and may be capable of supporting life. Then there are the two rings, one orbiting at the equator and the other orbiting at the prime meridian. Novo Mir and Takarabune's geniuses are interesed in further charting the rest of the system itself, to see if there are other surprises out there or possible resources to exploit.

Meanwhile within the halls of power there is growing demand for expansion not only into the non settled areas of the continent but to the landmasses beyond. An Expansionist Movement has grown quite vocal about wanting further settlement as the population grows. This will grow more with a new batch of colonists expected to disembark when the Calypso returns.

What is not being talked about, other than in certain circles, is the rise of the scourge of Dust or Mummy Dust as some call it. Since it first hit the streets it has become a major societal problem, yet those in charge seem blind to its dangers and its capacity to create addicts. Dust Houses and Dusters have cropped up all over the setteled areas. even in remote communities.

Yet there has been no directive from UNPALAZ other than to leave the matter in the hands of county and municipal authorities. Several prominent figures from journalists to politicans to business leaders have remarked that this is not the stance to take. In fact one commentator has remarked things may look good, but the settlement is still poised on a precipice...