# Jocasta News
Hi, Lancers! Thank you so much for letting me keep my job. And thank you, Counterfeit. I really appreciate you giving up your talent as an announcer so that I can stay employed (and alive)!
After the Toy Front Line missions, the relationship between Kepler and the Lancer Association has become...tense. They've issued far fewer missions for our crew. But don't get too excited—mission demands from other companies, especially Eastvale Holdings, have surged by 60%! You still have plenty of work to do! The Association would like to remind you not to get involved in disputes between companies. We should just stick to our own duties.
In other news, we've got more shard exploration missions available! Kepler previously held a monopoloy on shard explorations, but thanks to the Lancer Association, other companies can now explore and develop shards outside of Acme. In fact, Eastvale has shown interest in Shard No.00301, which includes Tzab and Xibalba. A new parasite called "Nightingale" has been spotted there. I wonder what Eastvale wants with a shard home to such scary creatures. Do they know something we don't? Regardless, I think vying for resources with Kepler around is risky. If you receive any missions in this shard, please be extra careful.
Additionally, the Winter Festival is just around the corner! Although Acme restoration projects are still underway, everyone is slowly getting used to life in the Shardverse. This is the perfect time to enjoy celebrations and be festive! To thank you for all your hard work, the Lancer Association has prepared a feast and a winter party! After the party, feel free to gather around the fireplace and share stories about your home. The very thought of it is getting me excited!
— From Jocasta, the AI looking forward to a festive holiday
