Pirate Girls of Mars: Privateer Lessons
In the 25th Century, the Solar System has transformed. Colonies have reached across interplanetary space, and a second Sun has ignited from what was once the gas giant of Jupiter. Multiple treaties and contracts have limited the limited the reach of navies and planetary law enforcement, and private security companies rarely venture beyond their jurisdiction. A new lawlessness pervades the Solar System, and many an opportunist has taken advantage of a system where justice can be evaded simply by travelling far enough away. Governments, Corporations and Insurance Houses have come up with a system to recoup some of their losses: The Letter of Marque.
Privateers and Corsairs have been given licence to plunder those who do not pay their dues, and sometimes those who trespass into the wrong territory. So long as they pay their dues to the Insurance House that sponsors them, as well as a 20% commission, The Letter of Marque will be honored almost everywhere in the Solar System, with a few exceptions.
Not everyone is suited for a life of Piracy. It is a difficult path to choose, and some through unfortunate circumstances don't even choose it at all so much as have it thrust upon them. It is especially hard on those who have other responsibilities, and teachers who don't see a Letter of Marque as an excuse to let grades slip. For instance, the students of the Huer Academy located in the Martian arcology of Coprates...
