NanoTrasen Corporation
| NanoTrasen Incorporated | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Slogan | The leader in all things phoron! |
| Headquarters | Mendell City, Biesel, Republic of Biesel |
| Chief Executive Officer | Miranda Trasen |
| Official Languages | Tau Ceti Basic, Sol Common, Tradeband |
| Official Colours | Navy blue (#3d4f66), black (#282828), white (#dfe4ed) |
| Founded | 2366 |
| Founder | Xavier Trasen |
| Operating Region | |
The largest megacorporation within the Orion Spur, many will find themselves doing the biddings of NanoTrasen -- be it direct or indirect. Initially a biotechnical research company, it was responsible for the discovery of phoron in 2352 that has a variety of lucrative properties, key of which being that its a room temperature superconductor making it fundamental to achieve the present day level of technology for the Spur - with VERY limited exceptions - a valuable thing to have a monopoly over indeed. NanoTrasen’s monopoly on not only extracting phoron, but also refining it and many of it’s different applications catapulted its stock into the stratosphere, and it quickly became the most powerful megacorporation ever, perhaps the most powerful entity in the Spur, where it has remained for the last century with no-one who could compete in the same way, except in markets NanoTrasen is less involved in. Its acceleration into the spotlight has prompted many prying eyes to uncover evidence of rather questionable actions, with rumours perpetuating that they’ve instigated wars on both Adhomai and Moghes in an attempt to exploit the species for a profit; rumours that conviently leave out the actions of the Solarian Alliance.
As NanoTrasen’s mining operations turned out to be unsustainable and the problem that had been growing quietly in the background came to light as the “phoron scarcity”, the corporation’s power has since begun to waver as their ability to supply phoron at reasonable prices for it’s wide demand dwindled - showing cracks in their once invincible armor. They have done everything to retain their power, officially wrangling all the other megacorporations excepting Einstein Engines under a single banner of the Stellar Corporate Conglomerate with Miranda Trasen serving as the Acting Director of Operations through threats, political, espionage, promises of mutual profit, and the occasional convenient death, which for the time being, has kept the company secure in their position. However, the SCC is far older than its public appearance, and for all that time, resentment has been building up among the constituent corporations who are tired of dancing to Miranda’s tune instead of setting their own - and only time will tell if she’ll be able to keep the economy of the galaxy under her thumb.
| Contents |
|---|
Corporate Affairs
History
Initially founded in 2306, the yet-to-be distinguished NanoTrasen was a small company revolving around genetic research and development on Mars. Xavier Trasen, Founder and Chief Executor of Operations for NanoTrasen managed to guide the corporation into prosperity, eventually securing enough capital loans to move the corporation to the up and coming colony of Biesel in 2350. It was this decision that would change his own fortunes and the fortunes of his company forever.
When NanoTrasen discovered Phoron in 2352 and its applications the corporation became a household name. The unearthing of the rosy crystals in the Romanovich Cloud, and the subsequent identification of its properties, swiftly put NanoTrasen in the position to become the most powerful corporation ever, but it was not without its risks. NanoTrasen was a biomedical corporation that found itself sitting on a fortune of resources it would need a completely separate skillset to exploit - from just extracting the phoron to begin with, to researching it further, and meeting the insane demand it would generate. There was no certainty they would succeed; however, there was no certainty they would fail either.
Other megacorporations therefore lent help to NT exploit these resources, ensuring they too profited from the discovery, and it turned out to be the correct move. More than a dozen entities met the title of “transtellar megacorporation” in 2352, by 2452, there were seven. With the exception of Einstein Engines, all signed agreements with NanoTrasen in some form in those early years.
NanoTrasen’s early years in the limelight were obsessed with maintaining their monopoly on phoron and, to do that, they had to keep up with the increasing demand as it kick-started a scientific revolution that saw massive economic growth and the mass-adoption of phoronic technologies. Failing to do so would likely result in mining rights for the Romanavich Cloud being granted to other corporations, or worse, see NT’s exclusive patents removed by the Alliance government. Therefore, while NanoTrasen was the most powerful corporation in the known galaxy, it really didn’t feel that way to Xavier Trasen.
Until the turn of the 25th Century, all of Xavier's, and therefore the corporations', attention was on expanding mining operations- there was little time, money, or energy left over for anything else. For other things, they turned to their partners in the older megacorporations. They signed agreements first with Zavodskoi to jointly research the military applications of the element, then with Hephaestus Industries that saw the industrial giant supply the fledgling corporation with industrial equipment, and further research agreements to look at potential applications for phoron; those supplies paid for by generous loans from Idris Incorporated. They signed agreements with Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals to investigate and patent biomedical applications of organic phoron. While their partners also profited, the real power and money stayed with NT.
It wasn’t until after the death of Xavier Trasen and the start of the 25th century that the corporation expanded into other industries. NanoTrasen’s newfound wealth was speedily employed to bankrupt, absorb or bribe their way to the top. By this time, Phoron had been discovered outside of Tau Ceti’s gravity well, and NanoTrasen quickly moved to maintain its monopoly there. NanoTrasen’s power and scope grew exponentially, with all types of assets (stations, facilities, ships) cropping up across the Orion Spur. By 2425, NanoTrasen had managed to secure itself as the most powerful Megacorporation bar none, with its influence felt almost anywhere. With the discovery of Bluespace shortly after, things were looking up for the company - but there were problems.
First were the other megacorporations. Though nominally NTs partners, NanoTrasen didn’t want to settle for still having to compete with them and their established influence within the halls of power of the Solarian Alliance. They wanted a nation-state of their own, and wanted to do what no one had been able to do before: bring the other megacorporations to heel and establish a cartel on economic activity across the Spur. To that end they twisted the Alliance’s arm into agreeing to the declaration of independence by Biesel in 2452; an act that would see their relationship with the Alliance Government sour irreparably, the Alliance would seize all the phoron mines held by the corporation outside of Tau Ceti itself, though given the limited backlash, it is likely this was part of their deal. However, with the primary source of phoron no longer under the purview or management of the Solarian Alliance, NanoTrasen was able to successfully insert itself into the administration and governance of the emerging republic it had created completely. Whilst in recent times NanoTrasen has seen its influence wane slightly, it continues to reign supreme.
Second is the problem of ‘supply’ in ‘supply & demand’. The fanatical obsession about ensuring NT retains its monopoly over phoron in the public market never left the corporation so when in the early 25th century research papers were published showing the unsustainability of NanoTrasen’s mining operations and how the supplies of phoron would likely run out within the next century, the corporation ruthlessly suppressed them. However, by 2462, NanoTrasen was forced to admit they were running out of phoron. Power has since begun to waver as their ability to supply Phoron dwindled, and the Spur officially entered the “phoron scarcity.”
Influence
NanoTrasen has managed to intrude on all aspects of life, with its apparatus and employees being found in almost every nation-state across the Orion Spur -- primarily thanks to their monopoly on phoron. Since the turn of the century, NanoTrasen has also done small expansions into other industries besides phoron, such as manufacturing, research, and orbital construction. As a corporation though, their focus has largely remained the same; on phoron. The influence their monopoly on the extraction, refining, and sale of the material gives them cannot be overstated. This is the material that the past century of technological innovation and economic growth was built on, and the only supplier on the open market is NanoTrasen. Everyone - outside of Elyra - relies on NanoTrasen phoron, and purchases it from them; from state-run organizations to their rivals, everyone means everyone.
It is almost impossible not to know what, or who, NanoTrasen is in this day and age. This monopoly on the supply of phoron within the greater Orion Spur has resulted in controversial behaviour, however, with NanoTrasen managing to successfully scheme and insert themselves within positions of power, through either bribery or direct buying-out of politicians that hold authority. The Republic of Biesel is a good example of these measures, where it is all but said that NanoTrasen controls the administration of the Republic. The only exception to this influence is the Solarian Alliance, who banned the megacorporation from operating within its territory in 2462. However, where once the corporation would have responded incredibly aggressively to such a development, NanoTrasen has taken it in stride, not even interfering with the Alliance’s continued purchasing of phoron through the Freeport of Eridani.
Many have taken this as the clearest sign yet that NanoTrasen’s power is not as total as it once was - while the corporation is still potentially the most powerful entity within the Orion Spur - this lack of action against the Alliance has shown that the corporation itself believes it needs to be careful about exercising that power if it wants to retain it. How weak that means the corporation has become is unclear, and will likely remain that way until the house of cards Miranda Trasen sits atop comes tumbling down.
Internal Reputation
NanoTrasen has managed to secure a variety of different work benefits for its employees, a common reason among many of the reasons for their employment with the megacorporation. These benefits go above and beyond the regular salary or wages and include insurance, flexible work schedules and other things. NanoTrasen further solidifies its increased work benefits through further education and training courses offered by the NanoTrasen Academy, with the only clause being to continue being employed at the megacorporation. Additionally, NanoTrasen also offers subsidised dental care.
Executives and Branches
Executives
NanoTrasen is managed by the Chiefs of Staff, who are advised and appointed by the Board of Directors. The Chief Executive Officer, currently Miranda Trasen, has the ultimate authority over the corporation. Trasen herself is also a majority shareholder, making her the wealthiest individual in the galaxy. After the Chiefs of Staff and Board of Directors, power is delegated to Sector Command, composed of the Duty Officers and Central Command Internal Affairs (CCIA) personnel. Sector Command in turn delegates power to individual Station Command personnel.
Chief Research Director: Rook Keller, b. 2395
Rook Keller is an author of dozens of scientific journals, and a member of the NanoTrasen Upper Command, serving as its Chief Research Director. He was voted into his position after his predecessor was given the vote of no confidence among the Board in 2424. Keller is credited for countless discoveries regarding Bluespace. His most notable achievement is his equations that saw NanoTrasen enter the orbital construction industry, and eventually led to the establishment of Bluespace Gates across the Orion Spur. Before his introduction to the NanoTrasen Upper Command, Keller was already famous among the science community for his theories relating to decreased energy consumption in Warpdrives and eventually became the youngest person to receive the Scientific Inquiry Award in twenty-four-twelve at the age of 20. Initially, against Miranda Trasen’s rise to power as Chief Executive Officer of NanoTrasen, Keller has since become ambivalent regarding their position.
Chief Legal Director: Mori Takachika, b. 2410
Mori Takachika is a member of the NanoTrasen Upper Command and serves as its Chief Legal Director. She ascended into the position shortly after the resignation of her predecessor in 2449 and secured a majority victory in her vote of confidence among the Board. Before her appointment as Chief Legal Director, Takachika enjoyed a brief stint within the Central Command Internal Affairs Agency before eventually being transferred to the NanoTrasen Legal Team. She is regarded as one of the most experienced attorneys throughout the Orion Spur, mostly credited to her shrewd nature and knowledge of interstellar law. Takachika is a fierce supporter of Miranda Trasen and is often seen in the tabloids alongside her.
Chief Medical Director: Yehtlas Mualt-Quaat, b. 2243
Yehtlas Mualt-Quuat is a member of the NanoTrasen Upper Command and serves as its Chief Medical Director. They were only recently appointed, and became the first Skrell to be appointed within the upper chambers of a human megacorporation across the Orion Spur. Before their appointment as Chief Medical Director, they worked alongside many other Skrell (including Ormish Jrolk) in Tuz'qlip Researchers in perfect cloning. They were also awarded Idol status after accruing fame through poetry revolving around the heinous actions committed by the tyrannical intelligence, Glorsh-Omega. Mualt-Quuat is a major advocate for Miranda Trasen, describing their relationship as that of “Qu’draa” due to the close friendship they share. They also work closely with Zeng-Hu Phramacutical’s Chief Researcher [Name].
Branches
Originally establishing themselves on Mars as a small biomedical company, NanoTrasen has since managed to spread themselves across much of the Orion Spur through a combination of hard work, grit, and, primarily, Phoron -- digging a hold into a variety of locations. Whilst there several hundred branch offices, the largest and most well-known are:
Mendell City, Biesel, Tau Ceti: Zhengfu District hosts NanoTrasen’s Biesel Branch, which manages and supervises the corporation’s activity within the system. It is a truly massive building, and continues deep underground as well, being the administrative heart of the largest resource extraction operation in the known spur. Despite its somewhat utilitarian purpose, its Art Deco architectural design makes it one of the more captivating buildings within the city. The cap of the skyscraper is used as advertising for the various subsidiaries owned by the corporation, lighting up the Biesellite Nightsky with its neon hues.
NTCC Odin, Biesel Orbit, Tau Ceti: Formerly, the NTCC Odin served as the primary administrative center of NanoTrasen, and its operations across the spur. It has since been taken over by the SCC. It has several residential, commercial, and industrial blocks and has managed to become one of the most populated orbital facilities within the Republic of Biesel. Additionally, it houses the Spur's most powerful AI Huginn. The NTCC Odin was previously the headquarters for the company’s Emergency Response Team, but has not been since the team was folded into the larger Auxiliary Corporate Forces of the TCAF.
Olympia, Mars, Sol: The eldest, most grand branch office hosted by NanoTrasen previously existed within the flourishing archology of Olympia before its destruction during the Violet Dawn Operation. It was considered by many to be a representation of the engineering capacity of Martians, even earning the moniker “Martian Marvel”. Its crumbling corpse can still be seen from afar.
Eridani I, Epsilon Eridani, Eridani Corporate Federation: Whilst not as attractive as the other branches across the Orion Spur, the Eridani Branch is considered one of the most essential to the operations of NanoTrasen, especially considering it oversees all operations within the Eridani Corporate Federation, also known as the Freeport of Eridani. One of the only ways NanoTrasen can still access the Alliance Market, its extreme importance combined with its location has lead to a vault-like appearance in an attempt to deter and even prevent corporate espionage. It's often compared to that of prison by both upper and lower echelons of Eridani.
Foy-Niljen, Xanu Prime, Coalition of Colonies: NanoTrasen’s influence within the Coalition of Colonies is largely centered around the Foy-Niljen Branch, a gigantic building that hosts a variety of administrative and residential blocks, with employees working to manage operations on, over three hundred planets within the Coalition of Colonies, in addition to the trade of phoron within the system of Xanu itself.
Qerr'Malic, Nralakk Federation: NanoTrasen has managed to gain a more solid foothold within the Nralakk Federation following the deregulation of its economy. Currently, outside of the sale of phoron, NanoTrasen amounts to very little influence within the Nralakk Federation's economy, after having received a defeating blow following the leases for the Special Economic Zones being awarded to other megacorporations. However when taking the sale of phoron into account, NanoTrasen’s influence within the Federation is extremely high, as the Federation requires phoron just as much as the rest of the spur does. Currently, its Qerr'malic branch is the regional headquarters within the Nralakk Federation.
Subsidiaries
The subsidiaries of all megacorporations are as endless as their own direct employees, with massive swaths of businesses being occupied or dropped on a daily basis on a galactic scale.
Getmore Corporation
"Get more of Getmore!”
Chief Executive Officer: Mataji Khatri, b. 2414
Getmore Corporation is a major subsidiary of NanoTrasen, often supplying NanoTrasen’s vending machines with their products or helping ship bulk goods for the company. The subsidiary uses the galaxy’s largest local shipping networks to keep its own Hephaestus-built rented superfreighters running, recovering from titanic debt that is rumored to take hundreds of years to recuperate from having rented the freighters in the first place.
The founder of Getmore Corporation, Chip Getmore, is shrouded in rumor and mystery and has long been the focus of media attention.
History
Getmore Corporation was founded by Chip Getmore shortly after the Mars Catastrophe of 2298, focused on producing cheap and accessible food for the masses of the red planet. The company was later acquired by NanoTrasen during the early days of the phoron rush, to supply its massive number of new facilities within the Romanavich Cloud. Getmore's products are among the most famous junk food brands in all of human space, feeding countless hungry children, college students, and employees. In 2456, following first contact with the Zo'ra Hive, the Getmore Corporation was contracted by the Dorn Administration to work with the Vaurca to begin the wide-scale production of K'ois, opening the first factories to produce K'ois bars on Luthien later that year. Since then Zo'ra Queen Xakt has been expanding the Hives relations with the Getmore Corporation into other food production areas, and the opening of the first "all-factories" on Luthien, massive facilities capable of using phoron to produce goods much faster then traditionally sized facilities, has cemented the Vaurca's position as part of Biesel's food chain.
Influence
Getmore is a major food supplier throughout the Solarian Alliance and the Republic of Biesel. Many can find Getmore products in grocery stores, vending machines, and fast food restaurants all under the Getmore brand. The company also doubles as a major delivery service, boasting near-galaxy wide coverage and the fastest shipping speeds.
Major Brands
The major brands of Getmore Corporation are hugely encompassing and in a perpetual state of disarray. Old brands are dropped as fast as new ones are received very rapidly, supposedly conforming to the predictions outlined by scholars within the company. These scholars claim to cater to the “taste of the galaxy,” quite often in media reports.
The major brands that its founder Chip Getmore had outlined as “practically everlasting” lay below.
- Getmore Nougat Candy Bar: A brand of simple nougat bar made with real sugar and no artificial preservatives.
- Getmore Cup Ramen: A brand of cheap mass-produced ramen that self-heats with 10 mL of water.
- Commander Riker’s What-The-Chips: A brand of bland, lightly-salted potato chips.
- Scaredy’s Private Reserve Beef Jerky: A brand of beef jerky made from Getmore’s very own space-raised cows.
- K'ois bars: A brand of bland Getmore produced K'ois bars, rich in syrup and injected with extra phoron.
Hazel! Ltd./Hazel Electromotive
"Your friend, Hazel!”
Chief Executive Officer: Erich Ludtz, b. 2432
Hazel! Limited in Tau Ceti and Hazel Electromotive in the Solarian Alliance, is the newest subsidiary of Getmore and by extent, NanoTrasen. The company is known for the production and distribution of Hazels, a series of high-end shell IPCs in limited numbers, designed for domestic and service work, as well as managing a wide array of merchandise regarding them, from hardware and software to clothes.
History
Founded by Klara Seidel in 2410 in Earth, Sol, the company produced basic robotic apparatus and assistants for household chores. Upon relative success and the establishment of a branch in Harmony City, Luna, the company expanded into IPC production, creating the first Hazel in 2448 and the first synthskin covered Hazel in 2450, becoming a pioneer in shell frame IPC development and marketing. The opening of the Tau Ceti branch in 2460 marked the peak of their success, soon to be curtailed by the Phoron crisis, ending in their acquisition by Getmore to avoid financial ruin. While a subsidiary, the company is allowed a large degree of freedom and communication between the Sol and Tau Ceti branches. As a result, their internal structures and business practices are largely left intact.
Major Brands
- Hazel
Hazel is the main product and focal point of the corporation. Released in series, these shellframe IPCs are designed for work in the service and domestic sector. Found in high end hotels, company headquarters, bars and private households, they are released in series and are marketed in Tau Ceti and the Sol core worlds. Their relatively few numbers, the fact that they all share the same face, female appearance and hazel coloured eyes make them distinguishable as a sought out and sometimes collectable item. Custom builds are also offered in order to suit a client’s specifications, though such units are few and far between, owing to their extremely high cost.
Series
Hazels are released in series, with newer series supposedly sporting more advanced features in both hardware and software. The initial Hazel release in Series 1-2 consisted of unmodified Baseline and Bishop frames, prior to the 2450 introduction of Synthskin units. Series 3 served as the first Synthskin line that cemented the brand in the galactic market, with Series 4 and onward iterating on its design with every future production. While these improvements are true for the oldest lines, the company has been accused by critics for making no tangible changes apart from cosmetic alterations. The company has since been releasing a new series every year, Series 4 launching in 2451 with advancements in Synthskin technology and adaptive task completion. The vast majority are built in Hephaestus factories in Sol space prior to being shipped for software and synthskin installation in Tau Ceti, a cost saving process that permits the products to be labeled as “Made in Tau Ceti”. Hazels follow a certain naming convention, provided their names have not been changed by their owners or themselves "Hazel #S-H(series number).(unit number)". An example of this formatting is Hazel #S-H1.01
While Hazels of the same series possess largely similar specifications, it is not unheard of for units to differ in regards to their given service skillset, language chips and character. More advanced software in the newest series has enhanced the units’ adaptability, allowing for the organic development of unique personalities if left unchecked.
Playing a Hazel
Creating a Hazel brand IPC found here.
Ingi Usang Entertainment Company
"Our stars are bigger than real stars!”
Chief Executive Officer: Minjung Romero, b. 2413
Ingi Usang Entertainment Co., abbreviated InUs, is a major subsidiary of NanoTrasen, handling the production, editing, and distribution of holovid shows, music, and other art mediums. The company is known for its increasingly comical upper-level decisions, currently driving itself into the ground - and its prices sky-high. As time went on, InUs products became more and more valued and since its stabilization in 2452, became the standard for gaudy fashion.
History
Founded by Songmin Sang in 2214, Ingi Usang Entertainment Company remained a fairly minor corporation until being bought out by NanoTrasen in 2340 for “strategic marketing”. Though InUs fared better, it was not until 2397 when Binyaria, a Venusian aerostat, opened the Chiye-Gyo District to corporate investment. Between the untapped Venusian entertainment industry and cutthroat corporate war with BP Entertainment Inc., InUs flourished by debuting musical groups that quickly became insanely popular. In 2438, the company moved its headquarters to the Chiye-Gyo District.
Major Brands
InUs possesses four major entertainment brands run by mostly independent subsidiaries, as well as dozens of clothing labels strewn across the company’s jurisdiction.
- Cham Usang Records: Record label with numerous bands and solo artists called Chamus.
- True Lifestyle: A holovid network focusing on life throughout the Sol Alliance with shows like Real Time Security, One Love For Many, The Solarian Culture, and Living Big: The Lives of the Famous.
- ETX Network: A holovid network focusing on series shows occasionally broken up by Cham Usang Records material with shows like Love Me Right, Dark Days Ahead, No Names, and Chamu Hour with Sunmi.
- Cuentas?: A holovid network focusing on news and celebrity gossip with shows like The Day with Njeru and Susanto, That Good Stuff, The Spotlight, and The Orion Network.
"Serve, protect, excel."
Chief Executive Officer: Nathan Trasen, b. 2416
Nexus Corporate Security is a relatively new subsidiary of the Phoron Giant, created around the turn of the century and composed of what was formerly NanoTrasen’s security and asset protection forces.. While still owned by NanoTrasen, recently a share of the company is held by the Private Military Contracting Group, and contractors are listed as both NanoTrasen and PMCG employees. They are known for their distinct black, white, and blue uniforms.
History
By the time the 2400s rolled around, NanoTrasen’s security and asset protection department had grown to be massive, as the importance and value of phoron meant that every facility, from mines to shipping freighters, needed higher levels of security than would otherwise be expected. It was so large, it had begun being an administrative burden to the corporation.
The decision was made to take that department and turn it into a subsidiary corporation of NanoTrasen. The result was, in 2402, the foundation of Nexus Corporate Security. Composed mostly of previous NanoTrasen security staff, the subsidiary allowed NanoTrasen to protect its assets as they always had without the administrative burden of doing so. As such, NanoTrasen themselves has a very small security and asset protection department, with only certain installations, such as the Aurora II, playing host to NanoTrasen proper security officers. By the creation of the PMCG, all of NanoTrasen’s security apparatus had been folded into Nexus or the SCC.
Major Brands
- Rapid Trauma Response Teams: In partnership with Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, Nexus now offers private emergency medicine for the wealthy of Tau Ceti, and there are plans to expand the trauma teams to Port Antillia. The initiative aims to revolutionize the field of emergency medicine through round-the-clock observation and providing medical services to those that manage to afford its extreme cost when necessary.
Corporate Relations
NanoTrasen and Einstein have been rivals for decades, since the discovery of bluespace in the 2400s, and the subsequent invention of the bluespace drive, NanoTrasen’s first foray since the discovery of phoron into a market that was not phoron extraction and refining. As bluespace largely superseded warp as a means of faster-than-light travel, NanoTrasen quickly took a large share of the market from Einstein rapidly, along with their own internal supply of phoron allowing them to be far more energy efficient. Since then, the two companies have been fierce competitors, contending in court constantly over various trademarks, patents, and other legal issues. The phoron scarcity beginning in 2462 has led to a short term reversal of fortunes, with Einstein rising in prominence as NanoTrasen's power fades. The two corporations continue to clash to this day, with Einstein having found a foothold in the city of Phoenixport, Biesel - setting up shop in the heart of NanoTrasen's power. Though, for all that, NanoTrasen still holds the clear advantage, being the primary source of phoron for the entire spur. Whether Einstein likes it or not, FTL drives aren’t the main moneymaker for NanoTrasen, and any FTL drive of contemporary technological level needs phoron to function. Despite all the research they’ve put in over the last century, Einstein has only managed to decrease the amount of phoron required for an effective drive to be built - though it must be said not needing fluidic phoron as fuel is very useful - not remove it entirely.
Hephaestus and NanoTrasen have had a long and very profitable relationship ever since NanoTrasen discovered phoron, and Hephaestus provided their services to the up and coming corporation at a discount. The money lost by that discount has been made back a hundredfold in the last century, as NanoTrasen has offered Hephaestus continuous discounts on elemental phoron for use in manufacturing, and entered into multiple research agreements with the corporation to find new applications.
That said, while on the surface their relationship remains strong, behind the scenes they grow more tense. As the phoron scarcity continues and NanoTrasen's power wanes, Hephaestus has taken full advantage of their decline with little hesitation. The formation of the Stellar Corporate Conglomerate saw Hephaestus greatly expand its presence in the Republic of Biesel, taking near-complete control of shipping on the moon of Valkyrie and moving its central headquarters to Mendell City, weakening NanoTrasen’s previous near-total monopoly over the nation. More alarming for NanoTrasen executives was Hephaestus's expansion in the Izweski Hegemony - seizing a near-total monopoly of the kind NanoTrasen once held in Biesel - which NanoTrasen haven’t taken kindly.
NanoTrasen and Idris have never been fierce rivals, though Idris's continued prominence in Sol and its expansion into Biesel has led to tension between the two megacorporations. As Idris expanded its banking operations into NanoTrasen's center of power, NanoTrasen attempted to hold onto their banking business in Tau Ceti, incentivizing its employees to only make use of NanoTrasen banking instead - despite the many advantages that Idris held as a competitor. So far, Idris has been gradually expanding its presence in the Republic's financial sector, with many NanoTrasen employees switching to the use of Idris banks despite their employer's wishes. Idris has begun offering hiring bonuses to NanoTrasen employees in an effort to further weaken their power over Biesel's financial sector, as well as establishing branches in many of the former Solarian worlds of the Corporate Reconstruction Zone, where NanoTrasen holds much less direct influence. Though NanoTrasen has issued little official response to this, Idris transport vessels seem to commonly come under attack by pirates in the Reconstruction Zone, with many speculating the phoron giant is attempting to undermine confidence in Idris's renowned security.
NanoTrasen contributed the most resources to Orion Express's formation, and many of its executives are former NanoTrasen staff. As such, the relationship between the two companies has remained warm, with Orion taking over many NanoTrasen-held supply contracts across the Spur. Orion's continued operation in the Sol Alliance, and the fact that they continue to deal with Einstein Engines, has been a source of tension between the two megacorporations in recent years - but in spite of this, NanoTrasen and Orion continue to work together extensively across the Orion Spur. Though Orion's service industry has become a competitor to NanoTrasen's, this remains a small enough portion of both companies' business that it has not been a source of stress on the close relationship the two megacorporations share.
Zavodskoi and NanoTrasen maintain a decent relationship, with little open conflict between the two corporations. Since the beginning of the phoron scarcity, however, Zavodskoi has taken full advantage of NanoTrasen's waning power in the Republic of Biesel, expanding its arms industry into the Republic. Since the formation of the Tau Ceti Armed Forces and the negotiation of several new supply contracts with Biesel's government, Zavodskoi has managed to take a great deal of business from NanoTrasen - seizing NT's position as the Republic's main weapons supplier. Though NanoTrasen still holds onto their original contract for the Tau Ceti Foreign Legion, the Minutemen and Republican Fleet are both almost entirely outfitted with Zavodskoi-made weapons, armor, and voidsuits. NanoTrasen has attempted to counteract this influence through the recent appointment of Nathan Trasen as Secretary of Defense - but even with a Trasen in such a prestigious position, Zavodskoi has still managed to secure a solid grasp on the Republic's military industry. NanoTrasen has increased funding to Nexus Corporate Security several times in an effort to use their newly-formed PMC to undermine Zavodskoi's security business in the Corporate Reconstruction Zone, with some measure of success.
The relationship between NanoTrasen and Zeng-Hu is a cornerstone of the keiretsu's continued success, thanks to the former only licensing the patents to produce organic phoron and its associated medications to the latter. While there have been rocky patches in their relationship they remain close partners, with Zeng-Hu being one of NanoTrasen's closest allies within the Stellar Corporate Conglomerate.
It is rumored by some that the keiretsu wish for control over the patents they have gotten so rich off of, instead of needing to rely on NanoTrasen.
National Relations
NanoTrasen has played an important role in Adhomai since its discovery; through the support of the rebels, supplying the People’s Republic with technology, and offering job opportunities to the population. The PRA is NanoTrasen’s biggest ally on the planet, with much of its economy bound to the megacorp. Corporate interests are mainly focused on obtaining cheap labor and mining Adhomai’s rich mineral deposits. Despite the prosperity brought by this relationship, many Tajara are against the megacorporation’s interference in the affairs of the Tajara people. Alongside the political crises, NanoTrasen’s presence was one of the main reasons for the Second Revolution. Even after the Armistice, the People’s Republic continues its policy of maintaining a strong relationship with the corporation. Tajara working for NanoTrasen usually have more opportunities than with other employers.
NanoTrasen holds an undisputed monopoly over the Republic of Biesel’s phoron reserves, and all newly staked deposits found under Biesellite banners. Inarguably, the outcome of this has yielded positive results; now, the Republic sits on the largest wealth the galaxy has ever known. Needless to say, previously their power within the Republic was total and without contest. While their power within the Republic is still almost total, and cracks are starting to show in what was previously an unassailable bastion. The significance of the shift from total to almost total power within the Republic can be best seen in the most recent election, where, despite having a web of influence, the megacorporation’s favoured candidate, Joseph Dorn, lost to the Independent Ake Torvald. Despite the fact Torvald still had to bend the knee to Miranda to secure his victory, it shows how much the word “almost” means in terms of the company’s weakening stranglehold.
Ceres Lance, an PMC dedicated to repossess, reclaim or in the worst case exterminate lost synthetics to further the agenda of their highest bidder. While previously based in Sol space (which is where they get their name), they have since recently moved within Tau Ceti, under NanoTrasen’s remit; following the brief war between Sol and TC, and the subsequent reveal of the Stellar Corporate Conglomerate. The Lance has since seen further entrenchment into the NanoTrasen umbrella as they operate exclusively under NT contracts, migrating their headquarters to the Odin. As Ceres Lance is a private military contractor, this relationship is purely professional, and NanoTrasen continues to keep them around for their unique skill set. It’s yet to be seen if the Lance will find themselves signing a more formal and permanent work agreement with the megacorporation.
NanoTrasen’s relationship with the Solarian Alliance is officially non-existent, after having been banned from operating within the confines of the nation’s territory after 2462. The bond between the two had always been strained at best, especially after the megacorporation’s funding of the Republic of Biesel’s declaration of independence in 2452. NanoTrasen’s continued protection of the fledgling republic garnered them little sympathy from Solarians in positions of power, especially during the reign of the fascistic Michael Frost, even further dividing their relationship. Their unofficial relationship, however, is much more complex. Though they are banned from operating in Alliance space, the Alliance still needs phoron only NanoTrasen offers now, with the establishment of the CRZ so they turn to the Freeport of Eridani operating in a special jurisdiction and outside of the rest of the Alliance. NanoTrasen has shown no sign of trying to stop this trade, a stark contrast to the vengeful reaction many expected of it.
Notable Installations
NSS Upsilon
Despite the NSS Upsilon being commissioned in the late 2450s, it has become a prominent member of the NanoTrasen research department. It overshadowed the efforts of NSS Aurora when it was introduced - causing a rivalry to flourish. The proximity of the NSS Upsilon and NSS Aurora to the NTCC Odin has caused tension among those assigned to the corporate assets. NanoTrasen has seized the opportunity to capitalize on this rivalry, going as far as to put them into competition in projects.
NSS Canis Minor
The NSS Canis Minor is notable for its importance to NanoTrasen’s relationship with Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals and is one of the larger corporate facilities within the Republic of Biesel. The NSS Canis Minor - originally established in 2374 - is accredited to being behind the majority of NanoTrasen’s and Zeng-Hu’s research breakthroughs in phoronics based medicines, which has resulted in its prestige among scholars. Since its establishment as a research station, it has been expanded to be a university as well, and it has incredibly high expectations of its pupils, as well as those that apply to attend either its research or medical training courses. Due to these high expectations the NSS Canis Minor has the largest number of drop-outs of any NanoTrasen sponsored university, with many referring to it as being incredibly difficult on their mental health.
NSS Orchard Moon
The NSS Orchard Moon is a phoron extraction plant that also plays host to several refineries for creating phoronic compounds. The station is situated on the border of the Republic of Biesel and the Serene Republic of Elyra within Valley Hale. The deposit was discovered to much fanfare in the midsts of the scarcity, and though it is not big enough to totally reverse the Phoron Scarcity, for the past several years it has been enough to keep the worst consequences of the resource shortage at bay - though it seems that time is quickly coming to an end..
The station was attacked by the Southern Fleet Administration in 246x. The piratical organisation hoped to destroy the asteroid with siphoned weapons grade phoron - a fate that was ultimately averted by the SCCV Horizon and several other corporate vessels called to defend the facility.
As of 2465, its output is no longer enough to make up for the continuously falling output of the Romanavich Cloud.
