“Although a correctional facility, criminality within the facility seemed rife. For example, inmates allocated to the Workgroup Zero Cell Search tasks are well documented to have both stolen items, planted false evidence and used the task as an excuse to snoop. Individuals with questionable criminal histories were included. One such was Eris Crux – convicted of mass murder and incitement to violence, she is elsewhere referred to as a member of the Sovereign Family.
“Interestingly, an inmate who was killed on one of the work assignments of this Eris Crux was described as missing an ear in the (albeit sparse and hasty) post-mortem report.”
-An excerpt from 'b-Exagora: A History'
Somewhere in the depths of the Empire:
“Sister? May I have a private word?”
“Of course.”
“We've received news from Relatives that have reached LanDriChin. Communication has been sparse, but..”
“Yes, I understand. Let's have the news we've been waiting on. My Daughter?”
“Does not appear to have made it.”
”…I see.“
“These are the second reports, Sister. I waited after hearing the first reports of her death, as the veracity of first reports can never be held too tightly in serious matters.”
“I understand. Well, that's a loss. She was highly accomplished.”
“We are sorry to pass this news onto you, Sister.”
“Not at all. Thank you for the message. Go and light a candle. Or some other such sentimental bullshit.”