The Tharsis Explosion and Its Aftermath

The explosion at the Tharsis extraction site in February 2249 significantly heightened tensions between Earth and Mars, although the exact cause of the blast remains unknown. This incident led to a 5% shortfall in the Martian quota agreed upon in the 2248 deal, fueling frustration and debates on how to respond. Despite the desire for the agreement to work, factions on both sides emerged, as figures like Omnicore’s CEO Jin Wong and Mars Division Director Mabledore sought to maintain stability. Their attempts were hampered by radical elements from both Earth and Mars, who saw the missed quota as an opportunity to disrupt the fragile peace established by the agreement.