Loyalist attacks continue

Perhaps spurred to action by the recent arrival of refugees from Blackburne, the rag tag band of Loyalists, still hiding in the desert like cowardly animals, have once again attacked Hale's main township in an effort to abscond with supplies.

While the encounter started peaceably enough, with a small band of Loyalistits setting down their no-longer-space-worthy lander on Pad 3, and entering Fook's to buy beer, it quickly degenerated into gunplay as tempers quickly flared and townsfolk took to defending their town.

Casualties were reported to be light amongst the townsfolk, with at least one Loyalist reported killed by rifle fire from the tower. While members of the town militia were able to plant charges on the Loyalist lander, they were unable to completely destroy the vehicle. Witnesses reported the lander leaking fuel and smoking badly when the remaining Loyalists evacuated the town in defeat.

In the fight's aftermath, the Mayor was quoted as saying "We offered them Amnesty on more than one occasion. We gave 'em a message when they kidnapped Lili last time - lay down arms or the desert can have you. Well, we've got our answer."

Time will tell whether a rumored plan to finally eradicate the Loyalists will happen or not, but it's become clear that they are unwilling to live peaceably with the townsfolk, and the townsfolk have reached the end of their patience.

Blackburne Refugees arrive at Hale's Moon

In the aftermath of the unprecedented Reaver assault on Blackburne, and the wanton destruction of the Downport, a large number of refugees have arrived on Hale's from the stricken colony. As has been the long standing policy, the Town Council has decided to share what what resources are available with our friends in need.

Colonists are asked to assist where possible, as residents of Blackburne, Washtown, Suzhou, and other Rim colonies assisted us during our own evacuation late last year.

A cortex relay will be available in the Herald offices to assist with communications for any Blackburne refugee who needs to contact loved ones who may have evacuated to other colonies. Shelter, bedding, foodstuff, and other necessities are being arranged for the refugees, and basic meals will be provided in Fook's during the usual hours until the immediate crises has passed.

Town Elders meet with Alliance Command

Recently, the Hale's Moon Town Council held meetings with the Commanding Officer of the local Alliance command, Colonel Silvermane, of the 1st Marine Raiders Regiment. Apparently, these discussions were to reaffirm the colony's neutral position in any potential Independence movement, and to secure assurances from the Alliance command that they would continue to treat fairly with the colony.

While many colonists remember the hostilities of a year ago, and harsh feelings for the Alliance run deep with many of Hale's citizens, Alliance forces have taken a more humanitarian stance with the Colony in recent months, including medical supplies and sending a squad in response to a recent Reaver attack.

The Mayor was quoted as saying "Like them or not, the colony's better off not antagonizing them. Besides, their troopers bring good coin to Fook's and are better behaved than some of the transient bulk hauler crews who come for the ore."

In a prepared statement outside Town Hall after the meetings, Colonel Silvermane stated "I have instructed our forces to show respect and restraint when they are visiting your colony. While they're bound by law to address any illegal activity they encounter, they are also bound by duty to render assistance to you citizens. We are not your enemy, and hope these steps can go towards normalizing relations between the citizens of Hale's Moon and Alliance Regional Command."

While no direct mention was made of recent developments on Shadow and the growing knowledge of the Loyalist Hardliner faction within the Alliance, it's generally believed that Hale's Moon will maintain a neutral stance while still providing humanitarian aid where ever possible.