On a clear day, from the base of the Beanstalk, it's just about possible to see the small object at the top of the tether, known generally as UP. Of course, small is relative. What was once a small, pristine microgravity habitat has extended outwards, with extra habitation and industrial modules added until now the small … Continue reading U is for: UP and DOWN

Being surrounded by constantly updating technology has long been a difficulty for those still running wetware to keep up with. As hardware and software begin to take over from the human animal on an increasing internal level, much of baseline humanity has begun to know a creeping sensation of obsolescence.     Those who have … Continue reading T is for: Technophoria

From the public vidstreams to the avatar blackrooms on the darkmesh, fame and infamy abound.   Becoming the latest vidstream spokesmodel gives a fleeting pass at fame, having any kind of reputation or ability to maintain a public persona is what keeps it. Corporations have been happy to turn to those with reputation from criminal activities, and … Continue reading S is for: Stardom

Elections to the Committee of Representatives are held every two years. They form the largest part of the legislative branch of the Bureaucracy. Representatives are elected based on population sizes - one might work on behalf of a small island out on the fringes of the IICP, whilst another might represent a small neighbourhood in … Continue reading R is for: Representatives, the Secretariat, and the Board of Executive Trustees

Most quangos were originally set up to move relationships with various Megacorps a step away from the government itself after protests about corruption. They also helped by taking money of the budget. However, many quangos now have a bigger role in the lives of some citizens than the government itself.   The Office of Public Works … Continue reading Q is for: Quangos

Whilst many materials once considered illegal drugs are available for sale and regulated y the government, there's still a thriving black market for narcotics and other unsavoury substances.   Stims are a perfectly legal substance, however their use is strictly regulated to prevent substance addiction. Because of this, pushers carry some at all times, knowing … Continue reading P is for: Pills, stims and other illicit materials

One of the largest Quangos in the Pacific, the Office of Public Works raises funding and provides grants for artistic works and installations throughout the Islands. The OPW also works with corporations to source new artistic and architectural talent for new construction, and has been responsible for the start of many careers of young artists, … Continue reading O is for: the Office of Public Works

The Nomads travel the open waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, and many make their home in the waters of the IICP.   Sailors, fishers, traders, the Nomads are all of these. They follow the currents to catch fish, they seed and farm banks of seaweed, they carry information and new hardware from port … Continue reading N is for: Nomads

In recent times, it seems like Kathmandu Holdings has a stake in everything, everywhere you look, even though it doesn't have the funding of a Megacorps.   Kathmandu Holdings owns a minor share in the Beanstalk, and funded jobs for foreign workers during its construction. They now fund some production of ship parts for future … Continue reading K is for: Kathmandu Holdings

Whilst the Department of Justice incorporates the judiciary, punitive system and investigatory bodies, it is the latter group that makes up the bulk of the Department.   The main bulk of the Department is located in New Pacific City. From the central office, the administration of the various departments and collation of intelligence is run, … Continue reading J is for: Justice Department, what is your emergency?