G U RP S· Traveller'Planetary Survey 4

By James MaliszewskiBased on the award-winning

Traveller science fiction universeby Marc Miller

Edited by Andrew Hackard and Steve Jackson

Additional material by Loren Wiseman

Cover by Jesse DeGraff

Illustrated by Glenn Grant and Jesse DeGraff

Additional illustrations by Christopher Shy

Maps by Alex Fernandez

•

Banf Starport Map IFCIntroduction 2

IISS Data - Glisten /Spinward Marches 3

Chapter 1: History 4Chapter 2: Glisten Today 9Chapter 3: ExtrasteUar Relations .. 23Chapter 4: Characters 25Chapter 5: Adventures on Glisten .. 27Index 31

Worlds Within Jump-6 32Jump-6 Map mc

GURPS System Design <I> STEVE JACKSON

Managing Editor <I> ALAIN H. DAWSON

GURPS Line Editor <I> SEAN PUNCH

GURPS Traveller Line Editor <I>LOREN K. WISEMAN

Production Manager <I> GENE SEABOLT

Page Design <I> JACK ELMY

Production Artist <I> HEATHER OLNER

Print Buying <I> PAUL RlCKERT

Art Direction <I> PHILIP REED

GURPS Errata Coordinator <I> ANDY VETROMILE

Sales Manager <I> ROSS JEPSON

GURPS, Warehouse 23, and the all-seeing pyramid are registered trademarks of Steve Jackson Games Incorporated.Glisten, Pyramid, and the names of all products published by Steve Jackson Games incorporated are registered trademarksor trademarks of Steve Jackson Games incorporated, or used under license. GURPS Traveller Planetary Survey 4: Glisten

is copyright © 2001 by Steve Jackson Games incorporated. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. Traveller is a registered trademark ofFar Future Enterprises, and is used under license. Some art copyright www.arttoday.com

ISBN 1-55634-531-3 I 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

STEVE .JACKSON GAMES

About GURPS

INTRODUCTION

Loren Wiseman was one of the founding partners of GDW,Inc., original publishers of Traveller, and spent more than 20years there as designer, developer, and editor. After GDW closed,Loren freelanced, then came to SJ Games, where he is GURPSTraveller line editor and expert in residence.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ABOUT THE LINE EDITOR

How TO USE THIS BOOK

The Glisten system's main "world" is a planetoid belt in whicheach "worldlet" has developed its own slight variation on the basicculture. The system is a major industrial center, and is home to majorshipyards and heavy manufacturers of every sort. Site of bothImperial Interstellar Scout Service and Imperial Navy bases, and seatof the Duchess of Gli ten, the Glisten system is truly "The Jewel ofthe Marches." Millions of visitors pass through the system everyyear, some to visit, others on their way to someplace else. Therecould hardly be a better backdrop for science fiction roleplaying.

Introduction

The Planetary Survey books are not rules; they're background,nearly system-free. They are designed as a series of adventure set­tings ... not just worlds the PCs can visit, but also "offstage"places with their own history that can be used to drive adventureselsewhere (Glisten's industries and personalities are widespread).You can use this book:_As is. Glisten is an official part of the GURPS Traveller con­

tinuity, tied in with previous work in the Traveller background. Itbuilds upon material outlined in GDW's supplement TheSpin ward Marches (and other products) and in GURPSTraveller: Behind the Claw. Even if your campaign is not set inthe Spinward Marches, you can rename the system and transfer itto a locale of your choosing._ In pieces. Feel free to rename the world and the aliens, and

transfer it to a location better suited to your individual campaign.See Variations on the Theme on p. 30 for suggestions on tailoringthe world to your own game system or campaign.

James Maliszewski can quite rightly be called a traveler him­self. He was born in the Netherlands, grew up outside ofBaltimore, and attended university in Annapolis, Washington,D.C., and Toronto. He originally believed his calling was to teachthe world about the wonders of medieval and early modem philos­ophy, but soon realized he could be just as readily ignored bybecoming a freelance writer - and have more fun in the process.Since 1999, he has contributed to many gaming products, mostnotably for GURPS Traveller, Blue Planet, Deadlands: Hell onEarth, Fading Suns, Gear Krieg the Roleplaying Game, andVampire: The Dark Ages. He lives in Scarborough, Ontario, withhis wife, daughter, and a Captain Kirk action figure.

Page References

Rules and statistics in this book arespecifically for the GURPS Basic Set,Third Edition. Any page reference thatbegins with a B refers to the GURPSRosie Set- e.g.• p. 8102 means p. 102 ofthe GURPS Basic Set, Third Edition.Page references that begin with CIindicate GURPS CompeJUlUun 1; thosethat begin with GT are for GURPTraveUer. For a fulltist of abbre .

181 or the updated Webgurpslabbre

Steve Jackson Games is committedto full upport of the GURPS system. Ouraddress is SJ Games, Box 18957, Austin,TX 78760. Please include a self­addressed, stamped envelope (SASE) anytime you write us! Resources include:

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New supplements and adventures.GURPS continues to grow, and we'll behappy to let you know what's new. A cur­rent catalog is available for an SASE. Orcheck out our Web site (below).

Errata. Everyone makes mistakes,including us - but we do our best to fixour errors. Up-to-date errata sheets for allGURPS releases, including this book, areavailable from SJ Games; be sure toinclude an SASE. Or download themfrom the Web - see below.

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Internet. Visit us on the World WideWeb at www.sjgames.com for an onlinecatalog, errata, updates, Q&A, and muchmore. GURPS has its own Usenet group,too: rec.gamesirp.gurps.

GURPSnet. This e-mail list hostsmuch of the online discussion of GURPS.To join, e-mail majordomo@io.comwith "subscribe GURPSnet-L" in thebody, or point your Web browser togurpsnet.sjgames.com.

The GURPS Traveller PlanetarySurvey 4: Glisten Web page is atwww.sjgames.comlgurpsltraveUer/ps4/.

-IISS DATA - GLISTEN/SPINWARD MARCHES

••-e••

••

Notes

Gas Giant

5 billion3 billion

Population

DATA

GLISS [Kg VJGravity Hydrographic %

Diameter Atmosphere ClimateNA NA NA NA NANA NA NA NA NA

85,119 2.3 NA NA Uninhabitable

Glisten is the collective name for a large num- away the Asian invaders since then.ber of settlements in the inner planetoid belt Pluvis Belt: The outermost planetoid belt,orbiting a solitary star (Gliss), loca'ted at 2036. Pluvis contains numerous mining stations, smallGlisten is one of the major high-tech industrial ports, other industrial facilities (chief among thesecenters of the Marches and consists of a number are the Bilstein Yards), and the Glisten Imperialof separate planetoid cities, most of which Naval Base. The Pluvis Belt has nearly 40% of thespecialize in a particular industry or social role. system's population.

Glisten Belt occupies the life zone. The sys- Starport: Given the dispersed nature of thetern contains no appreciable bodies outside of the system's population, Glisten possesses a multi­two planetoid belts and Glisten III (a gas giant tude of deep-space ports, but only Banfi Starportwhich the locals call Nasmi). Glisten is the sub- is a true starport. Banfi Starport is rated Class V,sector capital for Glisten Subsector, and the and is held and administered by the Imperium,Duchess of Glisten maintains her principal resi- through the local Starport Authority port director.dence here. Certain approach vectors require Size: Not applicable.clearance from Glisten Imperial Naval Base or Atmosphere: None.Glisten IISS Station (consult the latest ephemeris Hydrographic Percentage: None.for details). Population: 8.38 billion permanent residents,

Glisten comprises a vast federation f indi- augm nted by transient miners, corporatevidual asteroid colonies, eac ie- l1-a-s-e-m-ploy es, . itary personnel, and tourists.accepted the Glisten Coo ,,1' tin Authority as Depending one . e of year and the circum-its central government e 1'10 co' n es, t ~ a'o of the system can swellgovern themselves inte a y ut allo e billion. This pulation figure represents theto administer the system' st traffi co bi ts of bo tHe Glisten and Pluvis Belts,network, as well as leg' late force than ~u t t f ,e Glisten Belt proper.dards for trade and commerce. As a conse- Control ating: 4 (Controlled). Glistenquence, there's a remarkable (leg 0 ·ohesion has nume u a s restricting the ownership ofin the system. The various colonies c t:)rd' ate we PQl'IS of all sorts. This is done both as a formtheir actions, ensuring that important services of social control and as a defense against damagesuch as defense and public works are divided to the system's many self-contained arcologies.among them. The precariousness of life on an asteroid world

In spite of the uniformity of administration, (even a high-tech one) is never far from thethe colonies exhibit remarkable diversity in their minds of Glistenites, making advanced weaponrylocal cultures. Each asteroid is host to a unique anathema.society, with its own customs, traditions, and way In addition, local traffic control is extensive,of life. This makes Glisten an incredibly diverse limiting both the movement of vessels and thelocale, and a popular spot for tourists in the use of certain communications channels.Domain of Deneb. Violation of either of these regulations is a grave

Glisten is also a fmancial and industrial power- offense and the violator may be subject to harshhouse of the Spinward Marches. It is home to penalties, possibly with the concurrence of theseveral important shipyards. Merchants and Imperial Starport Authority.traders from subsectors away are drawn to Tech Level: TLI2. Local industry is excep­Glisten's markets. The system is sometimes called tionally diverse, making the Glisten systemthe "Gateway to District 268" because of its sig- extremely self-sufficient. Glisten is on the cuttingnificant ties to that frontier region. edge in the areas of shipbuilding, zero-G manu-

Glisten was the target of an ihatei incursion in factoring, and environmental controls, with some1113, but the Imperium has almost entirely driven technologies on the verge ofTLl3 breakthroughs.

System DataPRIMARV:

Name (orbit)

Glisten Belt (0.710 AU)Pluvis Belt (1.503 AU)e Nasmi (2.812 AU)

_I

•--•••

e••

•ee••e••••e

As an inhabited system of the SpinwardMarches - and an inhospitable one at that ­Glisten does not have a long history. Prior to thearrival of the fIrst settlers in 298, there is little evi­dence of anyone taking much notice of the Glisssystem. In their interstellar exploration phase, theDarrians expanded outward in a sphere 20 parsecsin diameter by 1270. This sphere included Glisten,yet the Darrians didn't see any use in setting up apermanent colony here. The Maghiz brought anend to the Darrian presence in the area. Thus, itwas not until the coming of the Third Imperiumthat this system came to any prominence.

THE EARLY YEARSAs the young Third Imperium expanded out­

ward into the Spinward Marches, many marginalsystems were bypassed in favor of those withpleasant environments, obvious resources, orboth. Consequently, the Gliss system, which lacksany habitable planets larger than asteroids, wasn'tgiven much consideration. Other worlds com­manded more attention, leaving Glisten devoid ofsophont life until approximately 298.

At that time, the Amrneed Mining Corporationof Tirem (Spinward Marches 2233) launched asmall expedition toward the Gliss system.Ammeed was a middling corporation on Tirem,which had been shut out of major strikes on itshomeworld by rivals. Consequently, it was look­ing for new sources of minerals and ores withwhich to expand its operations. Using contacts inthe IISS, Ammeed's chief executive officer,Marquesa Banfi, learned that there was evidenceof lanthanum in the Gliss system. She gambles,and sent a prospecting team. If she succeeded,Ammeed would be rich beyond the dreams ofavarice. If not, it would be quickly bankrupt.

Fortunately for Banfi, her gamble paid off. TheGliss system - especially the Glisten Belt itself ­had large lanthanum deposits. It also possessedsizable quantities of other rare earth metals, mak­ing it a find unlike any other in the Marches atthat time. Banfi quickly ordered the construction

of several mining operations on various asteroidsthroughout the system. She also did her best toconceal Amrneed's newfound source of wealth.

Of course, Banfi couldn't keep her secret forlong. Within three years, the Scout Service hadofficially documented Glisten's mineral wealth.Even before that, disgruntled Ammeed employeeshad revealed the location of Banfi's new miningfacilities to competitors. These competitors quick­ly pooled their own resources to mount expedi­tions of their own. The government of Tirem fol­lowed suit as well. By 306, the Gliss system hadbeen surveyed extensively, forming the basis forall later surveys. By the end of that decade, therewere numerous mining colonies in the system.

THE CORPORATE WARSMarquesa Banfi 's gamble may have paid off in

the short term, but it had disastrous results in thelong term. By 310, many corporations - fromTirem and elsewhere - made it their avowed goalof gaining total control over the Gliss system.Although the Amrneed Mining Corporation had ahead start (controlling 10 large asteroids in theGlisten Belt), its rivals had size and determinationon their side. In addition, some employed merce­naries to threaten and harass their rivals. In theseearly days of the Marches, mercenaries could beused with much greater impunity. The ImperialRules of War were still in effect, as were trade­war traditions, but there was very little way toenforce them. Thus, open warfare broke outamong the asteroids of Glisten.

By 400, the warfare had settled down into afour-way confrontation between Amrneed (whichwas slowly losing its hold over the system),Mignukaa Mining, Liisharara Dii, and SulienaIndustries. The use of mercs had become com­monplace, drawing the attention of the Imperium.The Duke of Mora, Amini Murikshaa, was unhap­py with the state of affairs in Gliss. However, hisstaff advised him that it would be unwise tobecome too personally involved in affairs. Theyrecommended that he seek an indirect way todefuse the open warfare.

4 HISTORY

Duke Murikhsa settled on an elegant resolutionto the Corporate Wars. He dispatched severalagents to the system, including Alexei Gro'un.These agents gathered intelligence behind thescenes and quickly discovered that the employeesof the four corporations had grown weary ofalmost a century of conflict. Only the high payprovided by their employers kept them in theGliss system at all. Even then, many preferred toreturn to Tirem or elsewhere, leaving Glistenbehind.

Duke Murikhsa dispatched more agents to theGliss system and encouraged union leaders andrabble-rousers to fight against their corporatemasters. By 403, there were numerous revolts inthe system, as workers demanded an end to theincessant conflict. They argued that there wasspace enough in the system to allow for many cor­porations; military action was simply unnecessary.The Duke continued his canny approach to the sit­uation by inviting both Ling Standard Productsand Sternmetal to take a look at Glisten. The othercorporations took note and decided to modifytheir approach. Mter all, there was no chance theycould defeat these megacorporations in a straightfight. By 415, the Corporate Wars subsided to amore sedate level. By 420, Liisharara Dii was theonly small corporation left; the rest had beeneither driven from Glisten or bought out by theirmegacorporate rivals.

ANEWBEGINNING

By 450, the situation in the Gliss system hadsettled down considerably. The three remainingcorporations dealt with one another peacefully, ifnot always equitably. Labor unions and tradeguilds had gained great power on many asteroids,forcing even megacorps like Sternmetal to negoti­ate with them in good faith. Many more asteroidswere colonized - this time by groups not undercorporate control. Indeed, the groups who hadrebelled against corporate rule founded severalsuch colonies.

As time went on, noncorporate coloniesbecame increasingly common. These newcolonies were devoted to pursuits other thanresource extraction and processing. The growingpopulation of the Gliss system had become moresophisticated and needed services beyond whatthe corporations could provide. More importantly,the disdain in which many Glistenites held thecorporations all but required an alternate source ofservices. The nature of life in the system became

more diversified, which, in turn, attracted othersto the region. From his palace on Mora, DukeMurikhsa must have been very pleased.

GLISTEN ONLINEAlthough the Corporate Wars of the fourth

century had subsided, they hadn't completelyended. Both Sternmetal and LSP fought oneanother for greater control in the system, all thewhile contending with the power of the unionsand guilds. In the crossfire, Liisharara Dii beganto suffer badly. Their market share had shrunk toextremely low levels and productivity was down.The board of directors, back in Deneb sector, wasresigned to withdrawing from the Gliss system,believing there was no way for the corporation tocompete against the might of not one but twomegacorporations.

The regional manager for Liisharara Dii hadother ideas. A talented man by the name of ZevDavydov, he wasn't ready to concede defeat to hislarger and more powerful rivals. Instead, he pro­posed that Liisharara Dii follow the lead of thenoncorporate colonies of the system by providinga service needed as the population grew. Davydovconceived of the idea of converting LiishararaDii's resources away from mining and towardtraffic control and coordination. He reasoned ­quite rightly - that the Gliss system would desper­ately need a traffic control network in order toavoid mishaps. Moreover, this network could alsobe used to track asteroids and cometary bodieswithin the system, making it a valuable scientifictool as well.

Davydov received permission to followthrough with his plan. By 499, the system's firstcomprehensive traffic control network wentonline. Liisharara Dii charged both Sternmetaland LSP for the privilege of using it, therebystaving off his company's extermination in theregion. The Scout Service also took an interest inthe network, as did researchers from as far awayas VIand.

Ironically, Davydov's foresight savedLiisharara Dii's presence in the Gliss system, but itdidn't save the company. In 503, Makhidkarunbought out its main office. Fortunately forDavydov, the Gliss branch hadn't been included inthe deal. He then used his personal wealth andconnections to create a consortium that would pur­chase and administer the traffic control network.This consortium became known as the "Gliss TenCoordinating Corporation," after the asteroid onwhich it was headquartered. By 600 or so, it wascommon practice to refer to the asteroid as Glisten,a name that has stuck to the present day.

HISTORY 5

ARBELLATRA DAY

In addition to the other forms of publictribute to the memory of the first Alkhalikoi tooccupy the Iridium Throne, Glistenites havededicated a holiday to the empres . Calledsimply "Arbellatra Day," the holiday is cele­brated on Day 240 of every year (the date ofher confirmation by the Moot as empress).Arbellatra Day is a patriotic holiday that honorsthe accomplishments of Arbellatra and thedynasty she founded. Thus, the holiday alsofocuses attention on the current monarch andhis accomplishments as well.

Each asteroid celebrates Arbellatra Day ina different fashion, according to their own localtraditions and customs. Glisten City sponsorshuge street parties in its crowded avenues,while Ensu holds a variety of public artisticexhibitions, such as poetry readings andhistorical plays. Arbellatra Day is a populartime of year for tourists to visit the system,as it's one of the most elaborate festivals of itskind in the Spinward Marches. Many neighbor­ing systems have adopted the holiday as theirown, preading it throughout the subsector.

THE FRONTIER WARS

AND THE CIVIL WARJust as the Gliss Ten Coordinating Corporation

became more prominent, the Outworld Coalitionbegan its struggle against the Imperium. The FirstFrontier War did not touch the system directly.Aside from a few Sword World commerce raids,there was little real fighting in Glisten. However,the mineral resources of the system provedinvaluable to the Imperial war effort. Both LSPand Stemmetal reaped huge profits as they sup­plied the Imperial Navy with lanthanum and otherneeded resources. This in tum spurred immigra­tion to the system, as more workers were neededto keep the mines operational.

Support for the Imperium ran high among thesystem's population. Most viewed Admiral Olavhault-Plankwell as a hero. That he was a native ofthe Spinward Marches only made their pride moreacute. However, his assassination of EmpressJaqueline I in 606 was greeted with displeasurewhen news reached the Marches almost two yearslater. Their displeasure only increased as theylearned that Plankwell's action had initiated a civilwar in the Core of the Imperium.

When the Outworld Coalition reformed andsought to reverse its losses in 615, Glisten onceagain came to the aid of the Marches. They pro­vided as much assistance as they could, workinghard to keep the Navy and other armed forcessupplied with ores, minerals, and manufacturedgoods .. The new Grand Admiral of the Marches,Arbellatra Alkhalikoi, recognized the efforts ofthe Gliss system by sending an Imperial Navalfleet to protect it against raiders. Despitethe Imperium's losses elsewhere, privateersnever harassed Glisten during the SecondFrontier War.

Arbellatra's actions earned her an

•

important place in the hearts of

•

Glistenites. When she ended t~eCivil War by defeating Gustus ill

629, the people of the Imperiumwere impressed by her unwillingness

to seize the throne - none more so thanthose in the Gliss system. They greeted her even­tual accession to the Iridium Throne with satisfac­tion. To this day, Arbellatra is a common nameamong Glistenites and the empress is commemo­rated by several public monuments throughout thesystem.

6 HISTORY

THE FOUNDING OF

MODERN GLISTENAs the Gliss Ten Coordinating Corporation

became more important to everyday life in thesystem, it took on greater roles. By 600, it hadbecome the central processor for a variety of ser­vices, from traffic control (which remained its pri­mary focus), to food distribution, to adjudicatinglegal disputes. The corporation had become moreof a de facto government than a money-makingbusiness (although it still turned a profit everyyear from userfees).

Thus, in 602, a group of unionists and civil­ians on Gliss Ten proposed the formal creationof a government for the system. These constitu­tional talks were a model of openness and care­ful deliberation. In the end, they decided to vestgovernmental authority in the Gliss TenCoordinating Corporation, which becameknown as the Glisten Coordinating Authority.The Authority could continue to charge fees forits traffic control and other services (whichproved more popular than traditional taxes), inexchange for a promise to include even distant ­and unprofitable - colonies in its jurisdiction.The board of the corporation readily agreed tothis, as its acquisition of legitimate authoritywould confer upon it recognition by theImperium and all that goes with it.

Initially, only a small number of asteroids(mostly in the Glisten Belt) accepted theAuthority as its central government. Sternmetaland LSP both rejected the GCA's claims, appeal­ing to Mora for assistance. However, the Dukewas unwilling to back the corporations over thewill of the people of Glisten, and thus recom­mended Glisten be admitted into the Imperium asa full member. This happened in 609, and recog­nition attracted tens of thousands more coloniststo the system, many of whom established theirown colonies, which in tum recognized the GCAas the legitimate government. In 630, a group ofscientists from Mora founded the famed GlistenInstitute of Planetological Studies (GLIPS). Thiswas done both for scientific reasons and as a polit­ical statement. The Institute's founders wished tolend legitimacy to the GCA, a move some saywas covertly supported by the Duke of Mora.

THE SECOND

CONSTITUTIONAL

CONVENTIONBetween 602 and 750, many more asteroid

colonies joined the growing Glisten CoordinationAuthority. This growth proceeded in spite of cor­porate attempts to stymie its development. In fact,in 742, LSP ended its feud with the new govern­ment and took a shipbuilding contract with theGCA. This contract was signed out of necessity;Sternmetal had taken control of most of Glisten'slucrative mining sites, leaving LSP in danger ofcollapsing in the system. By accepting a shipbuild­ing contract, the regional manager had injectednew life into the megacorp's moribund holdings.

Despite these successes, there were signs oftension in the Glisten system. The worldlets of thePluvis Belt had rejected membership in the newgovernment because they believed the GCA heldtoo much power. In particular, they feared that itsprofit-driven control of the traffic control networkworked to the disadvantage of poorer colonies.However, they also saw the benefit of joining theGCA - and thus the Imperium as well. In order toreach a compromise, representatives from thePluvis Belt colonies petitioned the GCA to holdanother constitutional convention, one in whichtheir concerns might be answered.

It took years for the convention to becomefully organized, but it finally occurred in 785.Meeting in the Pluvis Group (a concession tothe petitioners), the convention allowed the del­egates to examine every aspect of their prede­cessors' decisions. In the end, only a few pointsof contention threatened its success. The mostsignificant concerned the GCA's user feescheme, which the Pluvians still opposed. TheGCA agreed to adopt a more traditional taxationscheme (which angered the corporations) inexchange for permission to raise a systemdefense fleet and army. It took 13 years beforethe new constitution was adopted by all thecolonies of the Glisten system (which becamethe formal name of the system), but in 798, allthe asteroids accepted the authority of the GCA.This authority extended even to new colonies;as a result, the GCA has complete control overexpansion in the system.

GROWTH AND

RECOGNITIONBetween 800 and 1000, Glisten enjoyed a

veritable Golden Age of expansion. The new con­stitution encouraged additional settlements in thesystem, each one drawn by the promise of equaltreatment. In addition, the presence of GLIPS, theshipyards, and rich mineral deposits proved astrong incentive. During this 200-year period,Glisten attracted literally millions of new set­tlers, some from as far away as VIand.During this period of phenomenalgrowth, the Imperial Navy requestedand was granted permission toestablish a base in the Glisten sys­tem. The Scouts soon followedsuit at the invitation ofGLIPS, which hoped toenter into a information­sharing agreementwith the IISS.

As these newbases wereestablished,Glisten becameincreasinglyimportant to thedevelopment of theMarches. As a resource­rich, high-populationsystem, it was a frequentstopover point for traders andexplorers heading into District 268and the Five Sisters subsector. By thebeginning of the Third Frontier War in979, Glisten was at the hub of a pow~rful

trade route - which attracted even moreimmigrants to this system.

The events of the Third Frontier War did nothit Glisten very hard. Most of the major fightingwas coreward of the subsector. Nevertheless, thesystem continued its important role as "supplierto His Majesty's Navy." As it had in the past,Glisten acquitted itself admirably, providingmuch-needed resources during an unfortunatetime in the Imperium's military history. Inrecognition for these efforts, the Duchess of Morarecommended that Glisten be designated the sub­sector capital, an honor previously held by Tirem.Not only did Glisten have a greater populationthan its predecessor, but it possessed betterstarport facilities and a greater role in the localeconomy. Emperor Gavin confirmed this transferin 991, as the Solomani Rim War raged.

A BRIGHT FUTUREGlisten has continued to play an important role

in spinward affairs since the millennial celebra­tions in I000. The mines of the Gliss system seemalmost inexhaustible, even after hundreds of yearsof exploitation. Of course, Glisten now derivesmore than half of its gross domestic product from

industrial manufacturing and shipbuilding.That number is expected to increase even

more within the next decade.Scientific research continues to

grow as well. GLIPS draws theattention of the academic commu­

nity every 10 years with itsfamed research forum.

Glisten's telescopicadvances have made an

impact on Imperialscience, aiding

astronomers andastrophysicists.

GLIPS andthe IISS

havejointly

petitionedthe

Imperiumfor increased

funding in thisfield, believing it

will aid colonizationand cataloging efforts

everywhere.The only significant chal­

lenge of late was the AsIanihatei incursion of 1113. These

landless "second sons" attempted toestablish a foothold in Glisten by force

during that year. The combined efforts ofthe Glisten Defense Forces and the Imperial

Navy repelled the invaders, sending themback into the Trojan Reach. Nevertheless, theAsian remain interested in the "unclaimedrockballs" of Glisten and have entered intonegotiations to take possession of them. Thesenegotiations have resulted in no permanentsolution, but the diplomatic work continues.

Even so, there is every reason to suspect thatGlisten's future is a bright one. The system hasrisen from humble beginnings to become one ofthe powerhouses of the Domain of Deneb. Thedrive and ingenuity of its people all but ensurethat it will continue to have a prominent place inthe Domain for many years to come.

B HISTORY

Glisten is a jewel of the Spinward Marches.While its physical appearance is not one thatinspires awe (although many Glistenites woulddisagree), its high population and high technologyensure its place in the travelogues of the Domainof Deneb. Its industrial might is rivaled by fewother worlds - in the Marches or beyond.

BANFI STARPORTGlisten's Banfi Starport is an entirely free­

floating structure. Located at a stable point withinthe Glisten Belt itself, equidistant from severalmajor settlements, Banfi is completely run by theSPA. The "extrality line" is a misnomer here, asthe starport is a self-contained structure that is notlocated on any asteroid or planetoid in the system.Consequently, Glisten has fewer of the conflictsbetween the Starport Authority (SPA) and localgovernment that are common on many otherworlds of the Imperium.

A class V starport, Banfi is huge, dwarfed onlyby a few other starports in the Domain of Deneb.The port possesses numerous berths and dockingbays, warehouses, businesses, and an extensivehabitat section. If Banfi were located on an aster­oid, it would be one of the system's most heavilypopulated. At any given time, the starport seesbetween 400,000 and 500,000 individuals passthrough its corridors per week. In addition, count­less merchants and traders ply their wares in itsopen bazaars and promenades, making Banfi aconstant hub of activity.

Authority over Banfi Starport rests with PortDirector Helena Mintsopolis. A stern, olderGlistenite with a lifetime of experience in admin­istration, she ensures that Banfi runs smoothly. Tothat end, she maintains excellent relations with theGlisten Coordination Authority, the Duchess ofGlisten, the Navy, and the Scouts. Likewise,Mintsopolis employs only the best SPA officialsshe can arrange to transfer to Banfi.

Despite Director Mintsopolis' best efforts,Banfi Starport isn't as perfect a locale as she'dlike. In the past few years, the port has seen more

GLISTEN

than its fair share of would-be terrorists and pro­testers, many of them angered by insensitive state­ments of Duchess Muktheswara. Although noneof these incidents has resulted in any deaths orpermanent damage, Mintsopolis isn't certain howlong that will continue. She's stepped up securityat the starport and pulled strings with the NavalCommander to get more Imperial Marinesstationed to the port.

THE BELTSGliss has two distinct asteroid belts. The first

belt, known as the Glisten Belt, is the larger andricher of the two. It contains the bulk of the sys­tem's inhabitants, as well as more industries andresource extraction stations. It is this belt thatmost non-Glistenites think of when they hear thename "Glisten."

The second belt, located farther away from thestar Gliss, is the Pluvis Belt. This lesser belt pos­sesses neither the population nor the mineral rich­ness of the Glisten Belt, which is why outsidersrarely consider it. However, the Pluvis Belt playsan important role in the system, as it's home to theImperial Navy Base, as well as Bilstein Yards.Likewise, GLIPS (see p. 14) shows great interestin the Pluvis Belt, if only because its compositionis so different than that of the Glisten Belt. Thishas led to many theories, including several refine­ments of existing models of planetary formation.Thus, the Pluvis Belt is far from the uninterestinglocale some might consider it to be.

Too AY

GLISTENThis is home to the main governmental and

business district of the system. Glisten is actuallyfive asteroids, which were moved into a stabletetrahedron shape, with four at the vertices and thelargest at the center, shortly after the first wave ofimmigrants entered the system in the fourth centu­ry. Each of these asteroids has its own settlements,but they are all part of the larger municipalityknown as Glisten City (see p. 11). Glisten has thelargest population of any asteroid in the system,with almost 2 million permanent residents. Thisnumber is augmented by many visitors and tran­sients of other sorts (such as military personneland corporate employees).

The GCA has its headquarters in Glisten City,and the duchess maintains a sizable residence hereas well. The megacorporations active in the sys­tem, such as Ling Standard Products andStern metal Horizons, also maintain offices onGlisten. The asteroid likewise serves as the centralhub of the traffic control network for whichGlisten is so famous.

Glisten depends heavily on supplies and tech­nical care from other asteroids. Moreover, it doesnot possess its own municipal government, beingruled by a ministry of the GCA. This makesGlisten somewhat akin to a special district or ter­ritory. Its inhabitants are not entirely pleased withthis situation and have begun to agitate for a moredirect form of local government. This agitationhas been going on for several years now, withoutmuch success. The GCA has grown too accus­tomed to its governance of the asteroid to give itup, and there is no clear alternative plan.Nevertheless, it's unlikely that these politicalreformers will give up their plans, even if it takesyears to realize them.

THE TRAFFIC

CONTROL SYSTEMMuch is made of Glisten's traffic control sys­

tem - and with good reason. The network hasbeen in place for several hundred years and iscontinually being upgraded. It consists of numer­ous sensor drones placed both on asteroids and in

open space. These sensors track themovements of asteroids, debris,cometary bodies, and vessels withintheir range. The information theycollect is then relayed back to a cen­tral process on Glisten, which col­lates it and produces an accuratemap of every moving object withinthe system. The sensors of vesselstraveling through Glisten augmentthose placed by the GCA, asrequired by local law. Telescopesand communications devices addfurther data to the already impressivenetwork.

Outsiders might believe the GCAis paranoid about traffic within thesystem. After all, keeping track ofevery moving object with triplyredundant devices is certainly unusu­al in the Imperium. Nevertheless, theGCA does so. Why? The answer issimple: the GCA does not wish torepeat the errors of the past, whenvessels frequently crashed into smallundetected bodies or when rogueplanetoids came dangerously closeto heavily populated arcologies. Thenetwork is designed to ensure thatthe GCA knows well in advance ofany potential trouble - before it's toolate to deal with it.

THE BARACCAI

TECHNUMAlthough not a megacorporation,

the Baraccai Technum (BT) is nev­ertheless an important part of theeconomy of Glisten. This Marchescorporation is based at Trin in thenearby Trin's Veil su bsector.Specializing in manufacturing,transport, and brokerage interests,BT is at the forefront of developingnew markets, such as those inDistrict 268 and beyond. Glisten isthe headquarters of its Extra­Imperial Activity (EIA) division.The EIA devotes most of itsresources to cultivating the worldsof the so-called Outrim Void, a por­tion of Trojan Reach uncontrolledby the Imperium.

The Baraccai Technum's EIA is amajor employer in Glisten. It has aconstant need for starship crews, aswell as ex-military personnel inter­ested in exploratory trade beyondthe borders of the subsector. In thisway, the EIA is responsible for thepresence of many non-Glistenites inthe system. It's also among the mostvigorous seekers of business oppor­tunities in the regions adjacent toGlisten subsector.

GLISTEN CITYWithout a doubt, Glisten City is

the most significant settlement in thesystem. The city is home to almost abillion people, living in several connected arcolo­gies that sprawl over all five asteroids of Glistenitself. These arcologies are not physically con­nected, of course, but there are regular free shut­tles that transport workers, business people, andbureaucrats among them. Visitors to Glisten Cityare thus simultaneously impressed by its crowdednature and its orderliness. The city's local govern­ment (a ministry of the GCA) has made the main­tenance of order a high priority - and it shows.The city is run with remarkable efficiency.

Nevertheless, there's no overlooking the factthat Glisten City is crowded. Its streets are chokedwith pedestrians at most hours of the "day" (thecity has an artificial day/night cycle built into itsenvironmental controls). Likewise, its under­ground tubecar system is well used. Visitors to the

city are advised not to wander too far afield with­out proper guidance, either in the form of a tourguide, an interactive holomap, or simple prepara­tion. The arcology has multiple levels, both aboveand below the surfaces of all five asteroids.Moving between levels and navigating the variousroutes needed to get from one to the other (nevermind between asteroids) is often tricky even forlong-time residents of the city.

THE ZONESGlisten City is divided into five distinct zones,

each one largely restricted to a single asteroid(although there is some overlap). In addition, eachzone is further subdivided into "Above" and"Below" levels, which sometimes have a verydifferent character from one another.

. GLISTEN TODAY 11

TRANSPORTATIONAs noted elsewhere (see p. 10), Glisten City

covers the surfaces and interiors of five differentasteroids, all locked in a stable tetrahedron shape.Because the city isn't limited to a single asteroid,the local government has established a remarkablepublic transit system that connects all the aster­oids on which the city rests. This system is anabsolute necessity, since there is almost no privateownership of vehicles in Glisten City. This isn'tbecause it's illegal, simply impractical.Attempting to use a ground car or air/raft in thecity's crowded streets would be nearly impossiblewithout accident - and Glistenites are alwayswary of accidents.

The transit system has two parts. The first isthe tubecar system that exists beneath the surfaceof the asteroids. These cars are similar to lower­TL subway systems, except that they propel theircars by means of magnetic levitation at extremelyhigh speeds. The use of artificial gravity and iner­tial compensators prevents the riders from beingharmed by these high velocities. There are tubecarstations throughout the city; it typically takes lessthan a minute to transport someone to any localeon the same asteroid.

The tubecar system isn't practical for transportbetween the asteroids. A shuttle system fills thatgap. These shuttles are very similar to the 100­ton interplanetary shuttles described onp. GTl41, except that they are TL12 in construc­tion and larger in size. Flights between asteroidsare scheduled every five minutes. Glisten Citypossesse~ hundreds of these shuttles. From a dis­tance, their travels back and forth envelop theasteroids of the city like a swarm of gnats. Acommon sight in Glisten City is a harried busi­nessman consulting the shuttle schedule, waitingimpatiently for the next flight.

Manufacturing DistrictA... This district is the smallest of the-.... five in Glisten City and is the center

for the city's light industries. Despiteits small size, the plants and factories in this areaemploy a significant portion of Glistenites who donot work for either the bureaucracy or the frnan­cial sector. These plants produce a variety ofgoods, ranging from sturdy machine parts tounique textiles. These industries are fascinating tomany tourists, because some of the plants operateunder zero- or low-G conditions. They counteractthe city's artificial gravity system in order to gainthe benefits inherent in producing items underlesser gravities.

Residential District

Financial District

This district covers one asteroidcompletely and partially "spills over"onto another one. This part of Glisten

City houses the multitudes that call the asteroidshome. It's probably the most crowded and con­gested place in the city. However, the GCA hasgone to great pains to ensure that public transportruns smoothly and efficiently here. They've alsoimproved the waste removal and security systemsto the point where they operate almost flawlessly ­much to the pleasure of the district's inhabitants.The Residential District can be a lively place dur­ing holidays and other festivities, when huge streetparties blanket the area in confetti, holographicclisplays, and throngs of people.

Commercial DistrictComDist houses Glisten's many

thriving small businesses, as well asseveral larger ones (most large corpora­

tions have their offices in the Financial District).ComDist is also the location of Glisten's ownspaceport, which guarantees that it sees a lot oftravelers and merchants. It's a popular locale fortourists, who come to purchase the many locallymanufactured goods as souvenirs of their visit toGlisten. There are a variety of historical monu­ments in this clistrict, most of them dedicated to thememory of the founders of the original colonies.

Government DistrictThis district, called Gliss One by

some, is home to the GlistenCoordinating Authority's offices and

board. It's a vast, sprawling complex that includesthe headquarters for almost every significant min­istry in the GCA. It's also home to the SpecialServices Branch and the hub of the system's traf­fic control network. The district is relatively unin­teresting to visitors, as it has little in the way oftourist attractions. Most monuments and otherhistorical sites are found in the residential orcommercial clistricts.

Sometimes called FinDist or GlissFive, this portion of the city is devotedto Glisten's massive financial industry.

It's home to the First Bank of Glisten and theGlisten Stock Exchange (GSX), both of which arevitally important not only to the system but to theentire subsector. GSX is one of the premier stockexchanges in the Domain of Deneb and is consid­ered a key inclicator of the region's economic health.

12 GLISTEN TODAY

OTHER NOTABLE

ASTEROIDSAlthough the inhabitants of the Glisten system

are concentrated on the eponymous asteroiditself, there are many other inhabited asteroidswithin the system. Indeed, the system is unique inthe Domain of Deneb - perhaps the Imperium ­for its large number of distinct asteroid settle­ments. This is partially a function of Glisten'shistory, but also of the extreme stability and regu­lar orbits of the system's asteroids. Many provedextremely rich in metals, ores and minerals, mak­ing them attractive spots for new settlements overthe centuries.

The following sections describe only the mostsignificant and populous asteroids; many aster­oids in the system have very small mining or sci­entific stations - or are "unofficially" inhabited.It's possible to hide within the Glisten systemwithout drawing too much attention to oneselfthough the Imperial naval base would take a kee~interest in reports of a wanted fugitive or pirateband in the system.

WAS-HINThe asteroid of Was-hin is home to the sys­

tem's Scout Service base. Located in the GlistenBelt, Was-hin is also home to the Glisten Instituteof Planetological Studies (GUPS). The presenceof both these bodies has given Was-bin the reputa­tion of being at the forefront of scientific affairswithin the Glisten system. This reputation is well

deserved, as many of Was-hin's inhabitants areemployed by either the IISS or GUPS. Those thatare not are probably involved in one of severalbusinesses or industries that support them.

The /ISS BaseThe Scout base on Was-hin is small by com­

parison to others throughout the SpinwardMarches and is primarily concerned with pureresearch. It makes a perfect compliment toGUPS, where several retired and detached-dutyScouts serve as faculty members. The base, whichis home to approximately 200 Scouts at any giventime, possesses several laboratories and similarfacilities. In addition, the Scouts maintain severalmeson telescopes, with which they scan the sys­tem for interesting phenomena.

In fact, the IISS base spends a good portion ofits time scanning the Glisten system, cataloguingcomets, asteroids, and other astronomical bodies.The Scouts have launched an unmanned observa­tory in an orbit steeply inclined to the plane of theecliptic, to get a better view of the system in itsentirety. This orbit is designed to pass nearWas-hin twice a local year, so that the Scouts canrefuel, repair, and upgrade the observatory, whichhas small maneuvering thrusters to make any nec­essary course corrections. The Scouts' interest islargely theoretical: developing a clearer picture ofhow asteroid systems develop. Naturally, theScouts share any new information they fmd withboth GUPS and the GCA, each of which hasdifferent reasons for finding it valuable.

13

GLISTEN TODAY

THE DECENNIALIMPERIAL

PLANETOLOGICAL FORUMEvery 10 years, GLIPS sponsors a gathering of

the Imperium's [illest minds in the field of planetol­ogy. These individuals - researchers, theorists,Scouts, and dilettantes - flock to Glisten for theaffair. For several weeks, a series of lectures andsymposia are offered; they highlight the current stateof planetology throughout the Imperium, as well asbring prominent new theories to the forefront. Thelast Forum (held in 1110) was noteworthy for theuproar caused by Professor Gwilliarn Werbylo of theImperial University of Alpha Scorpii. Werbylo pre­sented evidence of planets without molten cores inthe Vargr Extents.

This academic bombshell caused a great stir atthe time and has been challenged by numerousresearchers, including Glisten's own Lucinda Hosko,an instructor at GLIPS. The upcoming forum in 1120is likely to be a rematch of sorts between scientificsparring partners, as Werbylo's theories are bothattacked and defended. While many of the forum'sdeliberations hold no interest to the general public,the presence of so many travelers is a great boon toGlisten's economy. In addition, it reinforces the sys­tem's reputation as a center of learning in theDomain of Deneb - something much appreciated byits inhabitants.

14

The base commander, Marius Iustinussen, isan unusual individual, more scientist thanexplorer. He lacks the military bearing of many,more traditional Scouts, opting for a more laid­back demeanor. This makes him very approach­able, as well as a regular guest at dinner partiesand social gatherings throughout the system.Iustinussen is proud of the work the IISS base isdoing in Glisten, even if many of his superiorsbelieve it to be a waste of resources better spentelsewhere. Interestingly, megacorporationslike Stemmetal Horizons have been staunch sup­porters of the base's continued presence in thesystem. These corporations have used theirinfluence to prevent its closure. Critics suspectStemmetal and others have an ulterior motivefor this unusual benevolence.

Glisten Institute ofPlanetological Studies

GLIPS is one of the leading educationalinstitutions in the Domain of Deneb. Foundedin 630, it trains its students in the broad disci­pline of planetology, which includes the studyof biology, chemistry, farming, geology, andmeteorology. In addition, GLIPS conductsstudies on terraforrning and the introduction ofnew or geneered lifeforms into new environ­ments. The Institute also maintains close tieswith the Imperial Interstellar Scout Servicebase in' the system. The faculty is full ofinstructors with ties to the IISS and the Serviceregularly sends its junior officers to train atGLIPS. The Institute's student body is close to1 million, with almost 50,000 faculty andresearchers. This makes it one of the largestconcentrations of people in the entire systemoutside of Glisten City itself.

The GLIPS facility includes more than 100sample ecologies for study, each housed on itsown artificial satellite orbiting Was-hin.GLIPS goes to great lengths to ensure theintegrity of each ecology, using the latest tech­nology to safeguard them. In some cases, theyemploy guards (both living and robotic) toprevent outside interference in their research.This has led to some speculation in the localmedia about the true nature of the experimentsbeing conducted here. Dean Chouan Nathregularly dismisses such speculation as "reck­less rumormongering." Nevertheless, thesestories continue, as tall-tale tellers make thecase for everything from micro-black holeresearch to genetically engineered soldiers. Ofcourse, no evidence for anything untowardhas ever been found.

PLUVIS GROUPNaturally, the Pluvis Group is located in the

Pluvis Belt. With its numerous shipyards, itforms the main shipbuilding center for the sys­tem. The Group consists of a half-dozen asteroidsof varying sizes, all orbiting around one another.Unlike Glisten, whose tetrahedral shape is theresult of a massive engineering project, the PluvisGroup is wholly natural in origin. Its inhabitantsnumber approximately 500,000, almost all ofthem employed by one or another of the region'sshipyards.

Shipbuilding is an ancient and honorable wayof life among these Glistenites. In the Marches,the Pluvian engineer is almost a stereotypical fig­ure: tall and spindly, with a wan complexion andperpetually stained jumpsuit. The character ofTadeusz Eszterhaus from the popular Tales of theBeowulf is a perfect example. For their part, thePluvians take pride in their renown throughoutthe Domain of Deneb and beyond. Only the mostdour of Pluvians, a rare fellow indeed, would takeoffense at this popular stereotype from holovideo.

Bi/stein YardsWith only one facility in the entire Domain of

Deneb, Bilstein Yards is a rarity: a small family­run business. Headed by the redoubtable MartinBilstein, "the Yards" (as they are colloquiallyknown) are renowned throughout the Marches asmakers of high-quality custom designs.Although they specialize in starships, they alsoproduce other large technological items, such asspace stations and antigrav buildings. BilsteinYards constructed the palace of the Thearch ofPavabid, perhaps one of its more famous (orinfamous) contracts.

The Yards cannot compete with the likes ofLing Standard Products or any other megacorpo­ration when it comes to speed, quantity, or price.However, the Bilstein family learned long ago thatquality remains something for which some peopleare willing to pay great amounts of money.Bilstein Yards produces starships of the greatestquality. Moreover, each one is unique, built exact­ly to the specifications of the individual whoordered it. If the term "handcrafted" could be usedto describe an object massing thousands of tonsand possessing millions of individual parts, thestarships of Bilstein Yards would be such objects.Connoisseurs and noblemen from throughout theDomain of Deneb turn to the Yards when theyneed a custom-built yacht or safari ship. ArchdukeNorris and Duke Alesksandr Lagaashiga ofDeneb are among the Yards' more notable clients.

GLISTEN

Ling Standard ProductsAt the other end of the spectrum from Bilstein

Yards is the Ling Standard Products shipyard. Inalmost every way, the LSP Yards are the oppositeof Bilstein. Where Bilstein concentrates on spe­cial orders, LSP deals primarily in standarddesigns. Rarely do LSP's engineers diverge fromthe standard data packages for starships. WhereasBilstein produces but a small number of vesselsper year, LSP produces thousands. Mass produc­tion is the watchword of the LSP Yards. The twoshipyards are not really rivals, as they serve verydifferent parts of the market.

THERAK AND EROMThe bulk of the system's mining and mineral

processing are carried out on these two asteroids.Therak is so rich in resources that work goes onaround the clock. Erom is also devoted to heavyindustry. Together, these two asteroids possess apopulation of perhaps 400 million. Most of theirinhabitants work in the vast processing plants thatdot the asteroids' surfaces. Others work in relatedindustries, such as smelting and transportation. Inaddition, these asteroids have a transient popula­tion of belters. These belters are independent con­tractors who sell their services to whichever firmcan afford to hire them. Right now, most areemployed by Sternmental Horizons.

Therak and Erom are among the more lawlessasteroids in the system. The presence of so manybelters attracts criminal elements that prey on theminers' vices. Thus, organized crime syndicatesof various stripes have gotten a foothold onTherak and Erom. Beyond that, the rivalrybetween Sternmetal and Ling Standard Productsoccasionally boils over, sending competing groupsofbelters at each others' throats. Sternmetal main­tains the upper hand in the field of mining and oreprocessing; LSP sticks largely to shipbuilding andrelated industries. Nevertheless, the richness ofthe Glisten system is such that LSP cannot entire­ly keep away from mining - leading to clashesbetween the two mighty megacorporations.

TODAY

The Mining School of GlistenThe Mining School of Glisten (MSoG) is

located on a small asteroid orbiting Therak.MSoG trains students in all aspects of mining, onplanets and in space - from prospecting to legalissues to management of large operations. Thefaculty receives generous donations from variousmining concerns and is a major recruiting centerfor the same corporations. Indeed, bothSternmetal and Ling Standard Products haveendowed the MSoG over the years and continue todo so.

Unlike the more famous GLIPS, the MiningSchool doesn't attract nearly as many students andfaculty from outside the subsector. Nevertheless,MSoG is recognized as one of the region's pre­mier academies for mining and engineering.Corporations both large and small regularly hireits graduates and demand continues to increase.The opening of District 268 and the resourceexploitation that inevitably followed has sparked agreat demand for skilled miners. The MiningSchool provides them in ever-growing quantities,guaranteeing that its reputation will spread fartherthan it has in centuries.

MISTAR AND NAMDETThese two asteroids are devoted solely to

heavy industry. Together, they possess a popula­tion of close to 500 million people. The asteroids'industries are mostly related to the production ofitems in zero-G or micro-gravity. This includesindustrial crystals of various sorts, as wellas unique alloys. These products have manyapplications in the shipbuilding business, creatinga natural relationship between Mistar, Namdet,and the Pluvis Group. Likewise, both BilsteinYards and LSP have an obvious stake in whatgoes on here. Over the years, LSP has developeda strong connection to several industrial plantson these asteroids, ensuring that it receives aregular supply of materials for its massiveconstruction projects.

ALEA, WAREM,

AND THACENThese three asteroids are devoted to light

industry. Alea and Thacen also contribute to theagricultural development of the system. Alea,Waren, and Thacen have a combined populationof approximately 50 million. Their inhabitants areresponsible for many small, but nevertheless vital,industries, such as the manufacture of computersand life support technology. In addition, these

asteroids set trends when it comes to fashion, asthey produce the clothes and outerwear worn bymost Glistenites. Recently, for example, vacc suitsbecame much more colorful than they had been inthe past, thanks to the efforts ofWaremian design­ers. That fad has faded of late, although it's stillpossible to see "out of style" vacc suits with anunusual dash ofcolor.

More interesting to an outsider is the fact thatAlea and Thacen possess vast, domed farms allover their surfaces. These farms, developed withthe help of GLIPS, are self-contained ecologiesthat require a minimum of intelligent oversight.Robotic and automated tenders maintain precisetemperatures and other conditions. They also har­vest the crops for shipment and distribution to theother settlements of Glisten. A few eccentric (andwealthy) individuals maintain their own privatefarms, growing unusual and valuable produce ofvarious sorts.

Outsiders might expect that a megacorpora­tion like Naasirka would have its fingers in theagricultural business here, but that's plainly notthe case. The Glistenites are a self-reliant peo­ple, who take pride in providing for their ownneeds. While they have nothing against largecorporations in themselves, the idea of depend­ing on non-Glistenites for their sustenance fillsthem with dread. Thus, agriculture remainsfirmly in Glistenite hands, despite the bestefforts of many interstellar corporations to gaina toehold here.

ENSU AND VEDFOREnsu and Vedfor are both agricultural aster­

oids, but Ensu is far more famous throughout theMarches for its "artists' colony." These asteroidsare much like Alea, Warem, and Thacen,described above. Their total population is small,no more than 2 million most of the time.However, Ensu draws many visitors every year,because of the artists, sculptors, and writerswho've taken up residence amid its manyagricultural domes. .

This famous artists' colony, better known asRashid's Folly even by its supporters, is the lega­cy of Armand Rashid, an Imperial philanthropistwho died over 400 years ago. Rashid, a native ofMora, made a fortune as a speculative trader. Heused his newfound wealth to fund museumshospitals, and schools throughout the SpinwardMarches. At Ensu, he funded the creation of aplace where artists of all sorts could work freely,unhampere~ by the need to "earn a living" or"conform to societal expectations."

16 GLISTEN TODAY

Rashid set up a trust fund that would provide"salaries" for artists who settled in Glisten. Healso set up a board to determine whether or notan individual qualified as a genuine artist inter­ested only in producing artwork, unfettered bymundane concerns like gainful employment.Over time, this board became self-perpetuatingand drew salaries of their own, using the sametrust fund intended for the artists. The board alsolimited the number of artists allowed in thecolony at any given time, setting a cap at 75.Appointment to the board is by invitation fromthe current board and happens only in the eventof vacancy - usually the result of a death.

Despite its questionable origins and adminis­tration, the colony has produced some genuinelytalented artists. Both the sculptor Rakhel ar­Mendeali and the musician Mustafa Mihovecicwere one-time inhabitants of Rashid's Folly andare now recognized as treasures of the Domain ofDeneb. Visitors to the colony can engage indiscussions with the artists there, as well as seeperformances of the latest plays, music, and otherdiversions. Likewise, exhibits of art are anotherattraction that draws the curious fromparsecs away.

GROJUNGro'un is the location of the system's diplomatic

complex. This sprawling arcology can hold over20,000 sophonts - and frequently does. Given theimportance of Glisten to trade and commerce in therimward portion of the Spinward Marches, itattracts a sizable number of trade delegates fromother worlds and states. Thus, Gro'un is the tempo­rary home for representatives from places as faraway as the Darrian Confederation, the SwordWorlds, and independent settlements in District 268.

Gro'un is one of the smaller asteroids in theGlisten Belt, but it is also extremely important.Within the asteroid's arcology, negotiations anddeliberations of all sorts go on constantly: tradingcontracts, peace treaties, and many more.Representatives of the Imperium and other groupswork here throughout the year. During times ofunrest or war, negotiations can become intense.During the Fifth Frontier War, for example, dele­gates from the Imperium and the Zhodani attemptedto hammer out numerous ceasefrres and armisticesbefore the end of the conflict. Gro'un takes greatpride in its role in these negotiations. Indeed,Archduke Norris sponsored the creation of a diplo­matic school here in recognition of their efforts.

THE DIPLOMATIC DELEGATIONSGro'un has several significant foreign delegations among

its residents. The most interesting to an interstellar traveler are:The Dan'ians: This group is led by Dame Ros Mabiladh

and is well-disposed toward its hosts. The Darrians' primaryinterest is in Imperial expansion into District 268, which itworries could cause unrest if not managed properly.

Trexalon: This non-aligned world has sent a small delega­tion headed by Matthias Vendermeer. The Trexalonians resentthe Imperium's growing influence in District 268 and seekassurances that it has no designs on Trexalon's sphere of influ­ence. For the most part, Vendermeer is a tool of the TrexalonTechnical Consortium, a local corporation given to exploiting itsneighbors.

The S';l'Ord Worlds: Headed by AmulfHviti, this delegationis one of the largest on Gro'un. Hviti's interest is in the status ofthe Border Worlds Confederation carved out of the SwordWorlds after the conclusion of the Fifth Frontier War.

The Zhodani: This delegation is surprisingly small, but itsvoice is a loud one. Like the Darrians, the Zhodani are con­cerned over the expansion of the Imperium into new territories.Their ambassador, Qiarandlastas, is a soft-spoken man whounderstands the Imperium well. He speaks impeccable Anglicand does his best to appear reasonable, even when issuing veiledthreats from the Consulate.

GLISTEN TODAY 17

GLISTEN TODAY

The presence of so many diplomats and nego­tiators makes Gro 'un a haven for spies and otherunsavory elements. The Imperial Navy comman­der has worked hard to ensure that the arcologyhas tight security, but this hasn't prevented variousgroups from trying to pry into others' secrets.Thus far, there have been relatively few signifi­cant incidences of espionage. This result isachieved only with constant vigilance; there is noguarantee this situation will prevail forever.

CHUNAlthough small in size, Chun is one of the

more well-known locales in the Glisten system, asit is the headquarters of the Glisten TourismBoard (GTB). GTB is the primary employer onChun, meaning that close to three-quarters of thisasteroid's 100,000 inhabitants work to promotetourism in the system. The GTB has established avast visitors' center on Chun, with regular shuttleflights from Banfi Starport and other points ofentry into the system. Their goal is to ensure thatas many visitors to Glisten as possible passthrough their center before moving on to their ulti­mate destination.

The GTB receives support both from theGlisten Coordination Authority and from the vari­ous asteroid colonies of the system. The visitor'scenter contains literature (in a wide variety of for­mats and languages) and exhibits designed tohighlight what each asteroid has to offer. In addi­tion, the GTB arranges tours and "expeditions" tothe more interesting sites of the system. Whilesomewhat antiseptic to the seasoned traveler, thesetours do provide a valuable service: directing new­comers to all that Glisten has to offer.

GUORDThe large asteroid Quord is home to the sys­

tem's Imperial Navy Base. The facility is knownlocally as "Kumarigiis Base" after its originalcommander, Admiral Makurik Kumarigiis, whoserved here prior to the Third Frontier War. Thebase sprawls across the entirety of Quord - anddeep inside of it as well. Since the establishmentof the 100th Imperial Fleet, the base has grownrapidly to accommodate the upswing in both traf­fic and personnel. It is now one of the mostimportant naval bases in the subsector.

The current commander of the base is AdmiralSir Lucien Shiishuginsa, a distant relation to thefounders of the megacorporation Zirunkariish.Unilke most of his family, Admiral Shiishuginsahas little interest in business affairs, preferring themore straightforward world of the Imperial mili­tary. This choice has earned him the disdain of his

18

relatives and the reputation for being a simple­minded believer in black-and-white morality. Inpoint of fact, Sir Lucien possesses an acute mindand holds an advanced degree from the ImperialUniversity of Alpha Cygni on Deneb. The chargesof simple-mindedness stem from a misunder­standing of his devotion to Guraari Immi, anancient Vilani philosophy resembling TerranQuietism or Zhodani Chiepla in its emphasis onthe annihilation of the will.

Whatever his philosophical proclivities,Admiral Shiishuginsa is an effective commanderwho enjoys the loyalty of his underlings. It was hisfine grasp of strategy and tactics that drove off theihatei incursions in 1113. As a result, he is wellregarded by most Glistenites. Sir Lucien holds asomewhat less than favorable opinion of theAsian. His dislike for them is not founded inracism (his personal philosophy and honorablenature wouldn't allow it), but he has recommend­ed the Archduke take a firmer stance against theselandless warriors.

"SECRET" ASTEROIDSAND OTHER ODDITIES

Is it possible that there are forgotten or hid­den colonies among Glisten's asteroids? That aUdepends on the interests of the GM and the kindof Traveller game he wants to run. In the stan­dard version of Glisten, there are no secretcolonies of psionic adepts or crazed cultists, butthat's not to say there couldn't be in the GM'sversion of the system. However, the GM needs toexplain how such groups could evade detection.After all, the GCA exists primarily to maintain ahuge and sophisticated traffic control system ­one that keeps track ofasteroids as well as ships.

Any campaign that allows secret asteroidsmust either introduce a technological explana­tion for their secrecy, or collusion on the part ofthe GCA and other authorities. Again, thiswould be a very different version of Glisten thanthe One presented here, but there's nothingwrong with that. Traveller allows for manystyles of play and, as long as everyone is havingfun, there's no reason not to introduce a littleparanoid conspiracy ...

OTHER ASTEROIDSBoth the Glisten and Pluvis Belts contain far

more asteroids than could ever be described with­out a lengthy survey. It's nearly impossible to givea full accounting of the diversity that exists withinthis system. However, a few guidelines andfurther examples should bridge the gap somewhat.

Nearly every asteroid colony is fully integratedinto the overall society of Glisten. Each exists toserve a particular purpose in the great scheme ofthings. Thus, most colonies either produce some­thing of value or provide a service. The lattercategory is especially broad, since it can includeanything from artists to tour guides. The importantpoint is that few colonies are isolated or detachedfrom the overarching society of the system.

There are exceptions, such as contemplativereligious communities like the Mahab Fellowshipon Pholion. In general, though, even religiousgroups have found a way to integrate themselvesinto Glisten's society. For example, a branch of theDenebian To Will One Thing faith has set up onSayegha and provides both counseling and techni­cal services to their fellow Glistenites. This is theideal that most inhabitants strive for - diversitywithin a cooperative unity. Consequently, few ofthe system's minor asteroids are home to reclusiveor independent groups; most are just another facetof Glisten's unique culture.

OTHER

ARCOLOGIESGlisten City is in many ways typical of the

cities found throughout the Glisten system. Mostasteroids possess one or more enclosed arcologiesthat form the primary habitations of their citizens.These arcologies exist on and beneath the surfaceof the asteroids. Surface settlements tend to covera great deal of the surface area, except in the caseof mining colonies, where habitation is mostlybeneath the surface. Some of the newest arcolo­gies possess impressive domes made oftransparisteel and similar materials. These allowthe inhabitants to view the sky and the ships thatpass by their colony.

All arcologies possess environmental condi­tions like that of optimal human-habitable worlds.Temperature, humidity, and other factors aredesigned to mimic life on a typical world of theImperium. Artificial night/day cycles have alsobeen instituted in keeping with the natural circadi­an rhythms of human beings. Of course, this isn'ta universal feature. Some arcologies, like those onTherak, support around-the-clock industries.

These usually have purely arbitrary divisionsbetween "day" and "night," based on the time ofday, and one worker's "day" might be another's"night." Most arcologies, however, use moresophisticated methods, such as dimming the inte­rior lighting, to delineate work and sleep periods.

All arcologies likewise use recirculated air.While perfectly suitable for breathing by humansand other sophonts, it has the unintended sideeffect of making Glistenites susceptible to a vari­ety of diseases when offworld. In particular, theymore easily fall prey to viruses that cause coldsand flu, unless precautions are taken beforehand.Native Glistenites are simply unused to the "lessthan perfect" air that most humans breathe on aregular basis. Consequently, many take inocula­tions before traveling to other worlds, especiallythose with tainted atmospheres.

Finally, all arcologies employ artificial gravity.In some cases, the gravity is variable, changingaccording to the wishes of those in charge of it.For example, factories sometimes change thegravity in order to aid in their manufacturingprocesses. Likewise, many Glistenites enjoy low­G sports and dancing, which is made much easierthrough the use of variable gravity halls and are­nas. The high-speed Denebian sport of Boloball isespecially popular among Glistenites; most aster­oid colonies have their own teams that compete inthe Glisten Boloball League every year.

GOVERNMENTGovernance of the Glisten system is vested in

the Glisten Coordinating Authority (GCA), abureaucracy whose primary responsibility is themaintenance of the system's vast traffic controlsystem. With so many ships operating in-system,the Authority's seemingly limited power is fargreater than it might appear. Indeed, the GCA hascomplete control over legislation and law enforce­ment in the system.

The GCA is headquartered in Glisten City, buthas several regional offices on other asteroids inboth belts. The GCA headquarters, also known asthe Davydov Complex, houses the bulk of theAuthority's members and bureaucracy. Legislativepowers are vested in the Coordinating Board, a 21­member council of civil servants. These membersare not elected by Glistenites directly; the Boarditself chooses them from among the civil service.Whenever a vacancy opens on the Board, theremaining members select a replacement by a sim­ple vote. Board members serve for 10-year terms,although the Board may elect to extend a member'sterm with a two-thirds vote of the other members.

GLISTEN TODAY 19

GLISTENITE MEDIAGlisten regularly defies outside expectations

by not living up to the reputations of many aster­oid systems. Instead of being a lawless frontier,the system is urbane, sophisticated, and open­minded. Nevertheless, the Glistenite media sceneoften shocks the unwary, as it vacillates betweenthe sublime and the lurid. The GCA does not regu­late the media in any way except to establishacceptable channels and frequencies that do notinterfere with the traffic control network and othere sential communications. Consequently, theGlistenite media is regulated only in the realm ofits physical transmission, not its actual content.

<Jlistenite journalists commonly use a varietyOf WlQrthodox tactics to get their stories. Because

L....~l\"'l,lite law offers only limited protectionsslander and libel, these journalists often

little compunction against printing nearly anyace~~'ons they can even vaguely support. Thus,

Beneath the Coordinating Board is a vastbureaucracy that oversees a wide range ofactivities. Everything from the all-important trafficcontrol network to building regulations to environ­mental oversight comes under the jurisdiction ofthe GCA. There are ministries that direct each ofthese areas, providing both legal parameters andpersonnel for their administration. However, theGCA does not interfere in all aspects of Glisteniteexistence. It allows total freedom of the media, ofreligion, and other areas of personal behavior.Consequently, Glisten is something ofa free-for-allwhen it comes to some elements of its culture,while it is seemingly quite curtailed in others.

ECONOMICSGlisten's economy is extremely complex,

based on a combination of natural-resourceextraction, indigenous industries (most of whichtake advantage of zero-G and micro-gravity tech­niques), shipbuilding, and tourism. The stockmarket also plays an important role. Indeed,Glisten is an important center of trade and com­merce in the Spinward Marches. Merchant vessels- mostly corporate in nature - regularly leaveBanfi Starport for the worlds of District 268 andTrojan Reach sectors. Their activities not onlyenrich Glisten, but also spread the system's politi­cal influence beyond its borders. In many ways,Glisten's economic might is what sets it apartfrom the other systems of its home sector.

there is a thriving "yellow jOlU~~~~

Glisten, fed by a populace that is ~ifif.•in the latest gossip. Of course, these ~cs

have also protected crusading reporter.s from themachinations of corporations who'd rather theirdirty laundry not be aired in public. Glisten is thuseither a journalist's dream or a reader's nightmare,depending on one's point of view.

Glistenite popular culture is suffused with anequally broad range of media outlets. Withoutgovernment censorship, holovideo programs andother art forms can - and do - include all mannerof lurid, lewd, and outlandish entertainments.Criticism of the government and corporations iscommonplace. Indeed, Glistenite satire is a highart, freed from the concern that some humorlesscensor will take umbrage to what is being said.Visitors to Glisten are warned to be prepared forpopular culture that is extremely open-minded.

CRIME AND

PUNISHMENTGlisten's control rating is 4, meaning that the

system is highly regulated. The GCA spends mostof its time and effort drafting legislation thatestablishes uniform standards and rules for all theasteroid colonies. However, as noted above), theGCA limits its spheres of influence to a few areas:communications, traffic control, environment,building specification, weapons possession, andso forth. Outside these areas - and even withinsome of them - the GCA allows a great deal offreedom.

Simply looking at the control rating mightgive a traveler a false sense of the GCA's controlover the system. The area in which the GCAcomes closest to being repressive is its focus onuniformity. The GCA demands that all asteroidcolonies abide by the same building codes andenvironmental regulations, to ensure that all citi­zens are equally protected. Although the GCAallows almost total freedom in the runningof colonies, it does not bend on the question ofhow these colonies maintain their arcologies andenvironmental controls. The same holds true forcommunications standards, which are intended toensure no interference with the system-widetraffic control network.

Some travelers find the restrictions on weaponsownership onerous. The GCA claims to do this

20 GLISTEN TODAY

for no ideological reason other than a concern forthe integrity of the asteroid colonies. Weapons fireof various sorts has the potential to destroyenvironmental controls and breach protectivewalls. Any such damage could have catastrophicrepercussions, something the GCA wishes toavoid at all costs.

Law EnforcementThe GCA is primarily a regulatory agency, but

the sheer number of regulations it promulgatesguarantees that it has an enforcement arm. Thatarm is the Special Services Branch (SSB). TheSSB is small, with fewer than 10,000 employees,and its mandate is limited. However, within itspurview - enforcing and investigating regulatorybreaches - it has broad powers. The SSB general­ly acts only after complaints have been filed,relying on Glistenites to point out alleged wrong­doing. The SSB takes a proactive stance only inthe suppression ofpirates and other undesirables.

Because of the SSB's small numbers and limit­ed scope, private security forces are common inGlisten. Both corporations and asteroid coloniesemploy their own agents to deal with specificproblems that do not call for the intervention ofthe SSE. Likewise, Glistenites regularly rely onzetetes, a local slang term for private investigators,to look into matters that don't call for the involve­ment of SSB. These zetetes are a respected part ofmany communities, becoming local heroes andinspiring popular entertainment about them andtheir exploits.

THE DUCHESS OF

GLISTENIn addition to the GCA, Glisten is also home of

the Duchess of Glisten, Avaraja Muktheswara.Although the duchess has little to do with the gov­ernance of the system, Glistenites frequently seekher opinion. By tradition, she possesses an ex offi­cio seat on the GCA Board. Nevertheless, sherarely attends its meetings, preferring to devoteherself more fully to the administration of the sub­sector as a whole. Duchess Muktheswara is farmore interested in external affairs than she is inthe day-to-day events of the Glisten system.

In particular, the duchess is concerned withevents in nearby District 268. She believes - quiterightly, many would argue - that the District needsbetter oversight, if it is ever to be fully integratedinto the Imperium. As things stand now, theDistrict is a jumble of competing interests, eachone acting without any central organization or

structure. Clashes between colonists, corporations,and even criminal groups are commonplace.

Duchess Muktheswara believes this situationneed not be the inevitable outcome of the openingof the region to Imperial exploitation. Shebelieves District 268 represents a remarkableopportunity for the Imperium. Thus, she frequent­ly petitions Archduke Norris to send moreImperial representatives - ambassadors, delegates,and military personnel - into the subsector as away of fending off the chaos. To date, theArchduke has proven reluctant to do so, citinggreater concerns elsewhere, as well as the tradi­tional laissez-faire attitude the Imperium hasalways held.

Undeterred, Duchess Muktheswara has usedher influence to draw attention to District 268'scurrent situation. She has highlighted "opportuni­ties" for inhabitants of Glisten subsector in theDistrict. Of course, her intention is to encouragethe emigration of "respectable people" to theDistrict, in hopes that they'll bring order to itsworlds. Nowhere has this encouragement been asstrong as in the Glisten system itself, which con­ducts a great deal of trade with District 268.Glistenites seem to be listening to the duchess,because the rate ofemigration is increasing.

Duchess Muktheswara's stance has made hersomewhat unpopular with the inhabitants ofDistrict 268, both Imperial and independent. Theyresent her interference in their affairs almost asmuch as the "slurs" she's made against their repu­tations. This resentment hasn't boiled over intoviolence or other hostilities, but that could wellchange in the future. The duchess is a formidablewoman and is unlikely to temper her views ­possibly with disastrous results.

. GLISTEN TODAY 21

THE SUBSECTOR

GOVERNMENTGlisten is the capital of the subsector that bears

its name. Consequently, the system contains muchof the bureaucracy that administers the subsectorin the name of the emperor. This bureaucracy isscattered throughout the Glisten system. The bulkof it is divided between Banfi Starport (because ofits extraterritorial status) and on Glisten itself inthe arcology of Ishee, which shares an asteroidwith Government District. However, other aster­oids also possess elements of the bureaucracy, asprevious dukes have seen value in "spreading thewealth," as it were. The presence of a subsectoradministrative office on an asteroid is a sign ofImperial favor greatly desired by most colonie~.

The bureaucracy is immense and employs liter­ally millions of Glistenites. These bureaucratsoversee innumerable aspects of subsector gover­nance. Of late, the most important has been theMinistry of Colonization, which has been at theforefront of developing District 268. The Ministryof State has likewise experienced growth, as con­tact with the District and the worlds of the OutrimVoid increases. Glisten continues to grow inimportance with each passing year - a situationthat is unlikely to change in the near future.

POPULATIONThe Glisten system has a huge population, num­

bering over 8 billion; the system is one of the mostpopulous in the Domain of Deneb. When one addsto this the visitors, travelers, military personnel, and

other transients, the number increases even further.It's not hard to see why Glisten is an economic andpolitical powerhouse. What's truly surprising is thatit doesn't have even more clout! However,Glistenites are largely content with their place inthe Imperium, happy to continue doing whatthey've been doing for centuries.

FAMILY LIFEThere's no such thing as a "typical" Glistenite

family. The inhabitants of this system are veryopen-minded, allowing all manner of socialgroupings. Among the various asteroid colonies,visitors are likely to encounter a wide variety offamily units, some of them quite different fromthe Imperial norm. Some of these units areholdovers from the days when the population wassmall, contained, and of limited genetic variability.Others are the results of freewheeling socialexperiments. Yet others are the result of centuriesof mixing and matching differing cultures.

By far, the most prevalent - and unusual - ele­ment of Glistenite family life is the "term mar­riage." These marital unions are entered into, likea legal contract, for a set number of years, duringwhich time they enjoy full status under GCA law.However, they end after a set term (typically fiveto 10 years), after which they may be renewed orterminated without penalty. This odd practicearose in the early days of corporate control andhas retained a place in the system since then.Traditional marriage (as well as odder couplings)can still be found in Glisten, but the term mar­riage is one of the few familial practices consid­ered "typically Glistenite."

Glisten enjoys remarkable power both withinits subsector and in the Spinward Marches as awhole. Knowledge of the system's relations withoutsiders is vital to understanding its place in theImperium. At the same time, it's important to bearin mind that most Glistenites do not consider theirsystem to be significant ... or at least that's whatthey say to outsiders. Many might even believethis line, a throwback to the days when Glistenwas a corporate fief whose primary value was inits natural resources. Thus, visitors will be struckby a paradox: Glistenites seem both worldly andisolationist, cosmopolitan and insular at the sametime. Coming to grips with that paradox is one ofthe keys to understanding this system's relationswith the rest of the Imperium.

TRADEGlisten is the hub of a network of trade routes

to other worlds of its subsector and beyond. Manytrade links exist between Glisten and Trin's Veilsubsectors, and the volume of trade with nearbyDistrict 268 is growing with each year. The open­ing of District 268 for exploitation in 964 was asmuch a boon to Glisten's economy as the discov­ery of lanthanum deposits centuries before.

Indeed, District 268 is very likely to become animportant trading partner with Glisten in the cen­turies to come. Already, many worlds in that sub­sector have established commercial ties with theGlisten system. These ties transcend political con­siderations; Imperial and independent worlds areequally interested in Glisten's goods and services.A noteworthy example of this is the religious dic­tatorship of Pavabid (Spinward Marches 1238),whose Thearch hired Bilstein Yards to build anantigrav palace in 874.

GLISTENJS POLITICSGlisten is a staunchly Imperial system, proud

of its membership in what most of its inhabitantsbelieve to be the greatest empire in the history ofCharted Space. Consequently, Glisten's politics

seem simplistic to outsiders, who expect a more"sophisticated" approach to worldly matters. Yet,most Glistenites are deeply aware of the debtthey owe the Imperium, specifically the nobilityand the Imperial Navy. Without the efforts ofthese groups, Glisten would not be the system itis today. The entire system is an enduring testa­ment to the pioneering spirit the Imperium hasfostered in the Spinward Marches, as evidencedby the continued popularity of holidays likeArbellatra Day.

EXT8ASTELLAR RELATIONS 23

In a similar vein, Glisten is a strong supporterof Archduke Norris. This support goes back to thedays of the Fifth Frontier War, when Glisten's roleas a producer of military vessels became evermore important. Although Glistenites gladly dideverything they could to keep pace with theImperial Navy's demand for starships to fight theZhodani, mismanagement in the early part of thewar made the situation quite desperate at times.Once then-Duke Norris took over the reins ofcommand, the pressure on Glisten lessened,allowing its yards the time to produce the high­quality vessels for which they are renowned.Norris' intervention saved not only the Marches,but also Glisten's reputation. Glistenites havenever forgotten that, which is why they are espe­cially pleased that Norris has been elevated to theposition of Archduke of the Domain of Deneb.

In return, the Imperium has shown continuedrecognition of Glisten's strategic importance. TheImperial 100th Fleet, which defends the entire

subsector, is based at Glisten. The fleet was estab­lished in 1108, during the Fifth Frontier War, andcontains a mix of new and reactivated vessels. Todate, the fleet has not been tested in battle. andthere is some concern that the presence of somany refurbished vessels may hamper its effec­tiveness should it ever see combat.

Locally, there is little interest in the traditionalpolitics that dominate many star systems. MostGlistenites care more for affairs on the asteroids onwhich they live than for any system-wide matters.This isn't to say they're apathetic about the ulti­mate disposition of Glisten. Rather, they're contentto leave such matters to the GCA. Because theCoordinating Board is an efficient bureaucracythat gives so much latitude to individual asteroidcolonies, there's little reason to take up an interestin broader political machinations. Even so, there isa small movement dissatisfied with the GCA'sundemocratic structure, but it remains a fringeelement that draws little support overall.

24 EXTRASTELLAR RELATIONS

Glisten is an unusual star system in that it can­not support life without extensive technologicalassistance. Moreover, life remains extremely pre­carious. Even with the technological wondersImperial colonists have introduced, a mistakecould result in thousands of deaths. Consequently,Glistenite characters grow up with different skillsand attitudes than their counterparts on otherworlds of the Imperium.

TEMPLATESNo new templates are required for Glistenite

characters. Characters from Glisten generally arenormal Humans, generated using the templatesfound in GURPS Traveller, pp. GT82-98. TheBelter, Bureaucrat, Engineer, and Journalist/Reporter careers are especia]]y common, whileBounty Hunters and Corsairs are nonexistent. TheLaw Enforcer template can be used for membersof the Special Services Branch of the GCA.Zetetes possess no typical profile, having a widevariety of skills and backgrounds. Many of theseprivate investigators are similar to Rogues andUndercover Agents.

11M FROM GLISTENA PC or NPC may have Glisten as his place of

birth. Whether he is embracing his background orrebelling against it, the planetary culture will haveleft its marks on his skills and personality. He willbe stronger in some areas, weaker in others, butthese traits will be present in most people raisedon Glisten:

• He']] be extremely precise in his use of anytype of technology - a reminder that Glisten'snative environment does not reward mistakes.

• He will be extremely comfortable with com­puters and will consider any person who does nothave a similar affinity to be backward.

• Likewise, he will know his way around avacc suit. Most Glistenites learn how to wear andoperate one of these suits from a very young age.

• He wi]] be very resource-conscious, notwasting water or food. Interestingly, this personali­ty quirk is just that; most asteroid cities are longbeyond the need for such paranoia about resources.Nevertheless, old habits die hard, and these werehanded down from the earliest generations ofGlistenites.

• He's been raised in an atmosphere ofrespect for both the Imperium and ArchdukeNorris, both of which he considers to be the epito­me of honor and responsibility.

• He'll believe in the absolute necessity forgovernmental intervention in certain matters; hehas no patience for anarchists or libertarians, con­sidering them both naive and dangerous. He alsorecognizes the need for laissez-faire policies insome areas, but is shocked by the suggestion thatcentral coordination is somehow evil or prone tocorruption.

• He will have a remarkably nuanced opinionof megacorporations, seeing them as necessaryevils given the size and scope of the Imperium.However, he wi]] readily point out numerousflaws and misdeeds in the actions of megacorpo­rations, as a result of witnessing their strong-armtactics in his home system.

CHARACTERS 25

<I> He probably fmds breathing air on nona ­teroid worlds to be a bizarre experience, bothinvigorating and disappointing at the same time.He may comment upon how "real" air smells andtastes different (possibly better, possibly worse)than the recirculated air he's used to on one ofGlisten's many asteroid cities.

<I> A Glistenite is more susceptible to airborneviruses and bacteria. Having grown up in a moresterile environment than most other Imperial citi­zens, his immune system is unaccustomed to "lessthan perfect" atmospheric conditions.

<I> He will be uncomfortable around high­powered weaponry, especially slug-throwers ofany sort. He probably doesn't know how to oper­ate such weapons, and almost certainly fears thepossibility that they'll damage any artificialenvironment in which they're used.

<I> He is certainly open-minded when it comesto popular entertainment, believing that it'simportant to be exposed to new ideas and forms.He'll also support a very liberal definition of free­dom of the press, one that may seem libelous tooutsiders unfamiliar with Glisten's ways.

ANC WHY DIC

You LEAVE?Glisten has a huge population. It's certainly not

uncommon for Glistenites to leave their homesystem simply because they'd like to get awayfrom its crowded arcologies. They may find thepossibility of living on less heavily populatedworlds a novelty they can't pass up.

Glistenites also love new situations and experi­ences. Although Glisten encourages this trait inthem, it's still possible to want experiences thateven Glisten can't provide. Given that the systemis at the hub of a huge trade route, manyGlistenites leave to find out what the widerImperium has to offer.

Another possibility is that a Glistenite mightwant to see if the tales told about the Imperiumare true. After all, it's one thing to revere theImperium and hold to its traditions, but it's anoth­er to actually experience it firsthand. Glistenitesare naturally a bit skeptical. Leaving Glisten maybe a way to confmn the respect for the Imperiumthey've grown up with all their lives.

Glisten offers many possibilities as a site forTraveller adventures. Because its nature is unique- even in the Imperium - the system providesplayers and GMs alike with a wide variety ofunusual locales and situations. Anyone of these,on its own or in combination with others, couldeasily form the basis for many exciting scenarios.

TOURISTSTourism is an important part of the economy of

Glisten. The system attracts thousands of visitorsevery year; the player characters could easily beamong them. The following adventure seed isdesigned with this fact in mind.

ARBELLATRA DAYThe characters have come to Glisten to experi­

ence Arbellatra Day at its point of origin. This isan opportunity for the GM to show both the diver­sity of Glisten's many colonies and the depth ofits feeling for the Imperium. It's also a chance tostage trouble, either from anti-Imperial terroristsor rabblerousing Glistenites unhappy with theGCA government.

CORPORATE

EMPLOYEESGlisten is home to several major corporations,

all of which employ a wide variety of individuals.The player characters could be among them,thereby providing another opportunity toexperience Glisten.

SABOTAGE!Someone has launched a series of attacks

against Stern metal Horizons mining facilitiesthroughout the system. Stemmetal believes thesabotage is the work of anti-corporate Glistenites,but there's also evidence suggesting it might be anattack by corporate rivals. The characters arehired to investigate this sabotage and report backto their employers on their findings. In the process

of doing so, they uncover a web of strangerelationships that exposes neither unionists norcorporate enemies but rifts within the Sternmetalmanagement, as one faction attempts to damagethe other's reputation for their own benefit. Thisseed could easily be expanded to become a full­fledged campaign.

SPECIAL DELIVERYThe characters are hired to deliver a special

Bilstein-built yacht to a reclusive Imperial noblein a nearby star system. He hasn't been seen inpublic for years and has a reputation for extremeeccentricity. The trip to his private estate isuneventful in itself, but his interest in keeping thecharacters there is another matter entirely. Is hemerely lonely or does he have more sinistermotives in mind?

BODYGUARDSWealthy visitors to the Glisten system are

likely to want a security team familiar with localconditions, but this does not mean they will notuse outsiders. Local VIPs or magnates might wantoutsiders for various reasons, not the least ofwhich is that outsiders are more likely to remainloyal, having no local interests or prejudices.

rrl LOVE THE

NIGHT LIFE ••• "The group is hired by a noble or wealthy par­

ent to look after his son while the young manentertains himself in the Glisten system. Thepatron's instructions are to allow the boy someroom and see that he has a good time, but makesure that he doesn't get arrested or married, loseany body parts, end up with too many tattoos, orotherwise become permanently damaged. Thepatron's son, of course, is an indolent hedonistwho spends his entire time trying to lose his"babysitters" so he can experience the "real"Glisten. There are two basic approaches a GM cantake here: serious and slapstick.

AD"vENTURES ON GLISTEN 27

Serious: Life in theseamy underbelly of theGlisten system presentsmany dangers for a well­off, naive youth, and thegroup probably has itshands full just keepinghim alive and whole ashe visits nightclubs, lowdives, private estates,floating gambling dens,traveling house parties,dealers of assorted recre­ational substances, andvarious people who wantto separate him from asmuch of his ample travelallowance as possible.

Slapstick: As comic relief in an otherwise seri­ous campaign, the group loses their charge almostimmediately, and the remainder of the adventureconsists of desperately trying to catch up with him.Possible complications include the youth's runningafoul of a criminal cartel, becoming infatuatedwith a local, accidentally offending a small butmilitantly violent religious group, and stumblingonto a massive anti-Imperial terrorist conspiracy.

COURIERIn this case, the group is hired not to guard a

person, but a shipment of luxury foodstuffs head­ed for one of the more remote arcologies. A ton orso of rare wines, liqueurs, exotic fruits and veg­etables, and seasonings and spices could be resoldfor a fortune in several places both in-system andoutside. A party with their own spacecraft has adistinct advantage in this situation, but the GMshould arrange things so that the group has totransfer the cargo at least twice, in order tocomplicate the situation and allow for possiblediversions, hijackings, etc. Added complicationscan include a time element (the food spoils after acertain amount of time) or special handling(everything has to stay frozen/underpressure/alive until ready to cook/serve).

ADVENTURES IN

BABVSITTINGThis is a comic relief scenario, something of a

combination of The Bad Seed and The Ransom ofRed Chief The group is hired to accompany a ter­minally cute child from one of the remote arcolo­gies to Banfi Starport, and wait there for thearrival of the passenger liner that will take thechild to boarding school, the other parent, or Aunt

Martha. The "kid" is mind-numbingly adorable,precocious, and totally without fear. The GM mayopt to add slight sociopathic tendencies, or anattraction to certain chemistry experiments (likestink bombs and low-level explosive mixtures),simmer for several days in a crowded starporthotel complex, and decant the makings of a realnightmare that cannot be properly resolved withcombat skills (although these may come in handyalong the way). The patron will not pay if theparty simply drugs the child into unconsciousnessfor 10 days - tempting though it may be!

ESPIONAGE AND

DIPLOMACYGlisten is a major system of the Spinward

Marches, home not only to Bilstein Yards but alsoto a Scout and Naval base. In the past few years,it's also turned away an ihatei invasion, making itthe focus of ongoing negotiations between theImperium and the Asian. The presence ofembassies from several non-Imperial worlds alsoholds prospects for adventure. Consequently, it's agreat locale for scenarios that use intrigue as theircentral conflict.

LAND, LOTS OF LANDThe Asian don't take no for an answer - even

when they hear it from the Imperial Navy. Some ofthe ihatei driven off in 1113 still have an interest insettling in Glisten. They point out that the systemis full of asteroids; why can't they settle there?

The characters can become involved in thisadventure from one of two angles. They couldwork as agents of the Asian, seeking permissionfrom the Glisten Coordinating Authority for anew settlement. Alternately, they could be agents

28 ADVENTURES ON GLISTEN

of the GCA who must help to smooth over differ­ences between Glistenites opposed to allowingAsIan immigrants into the system and the AsIanthemselves. This adventure seed could easily formthe basis for a lengthy campaign that immersesthe player characters in AsIan society and culture.

PRIVATE EVESThe characters set themselves up as zetetes or

work as agents for one, which can lead to a num­ber of interesting scenarios. Their success aszetetes will depend very strongly on how well­acquainted they are with the system.

PROPERTY RIGHTSThe PCs are hired by one of the parties in a

squabble between two families of local belters,each of whom claims they have mining rights fora particular asteroid. Investigating the matter fur­ther reveals that neither family has title to theasteroid at all- instead, the deed belongs to an oldGlistenite family that disappeared from the systemcenturies ago. Before the rights can be transferred,the investigators have to determine whether thefamily has any living descendants in the Glistensystem. Following up on this line of inquiry, thegroup is sidetracked by agents of a powerful localcorporation. The corporation illegally mined theasteroid years ago, and the directors are anxiousthat this not come to light. If they're exposed, theexecutives and their families could face prosecu­tion, fines, prison and public humiliation. If thegroup perseveres, they are physically threatened,then subjected to a succession of increasinglyviolent attacks.

MISSING RELATIVEThe group is retained by a wealthy patron

searching for a long-lost relative who is known (orstrongly suspected) to be in the Glisten system. Theinvestigators need a few details (physical descrip­tion, DNA sequences, last known location, and soon) and a place to begin their inquiries.

There are many possible plot complicationshere: Was the disappearance voluntary? Was itfor political, economic, or romantic reasons? Isthe relative involved in a criminal operation? Ishe working with a terrorist group (knowingly orunknowingly)? Does the missing person reallywant to be found, and will he return willingly orattempt to elude the group? If the person was lostas a young child, does he remember anything ofhis previous life? Will he insist that the groupalso bring along the spouse, child, or pet hehas acquired?

KIDNAPThe group is hired to rescue a kidnap victim

without involving the local authorities, becausethe family either doesn't trust the police orwants to keep the situation from becomingpublic knowledge. The group needs to deliver aransom payment and make sure the victim isrecovered unharmed - without attracting theattention of the authorities. Are the kidnappersterrorists trying to raise money to fund theiractions? Is the "victim" not really a victim atall, but a confederate in a scheme to defraud hisfamily of a fortune? What happens if theauthorities discover the crime?

UNDERCOVERThe group is hired by a corporation to investi­

gate charges of corruption in the security staff at amining facility. Ordinary corporate security can­not be used, because the company doesn't knowhow high the corruption extends. The group needsto pose as Belters, and must have appropriateskills if they are not to arouse suspicion. Theyhave to perform their jobs, investigate the securityforces, avoid discovery by the malefactors, andreport their findings to their patron. How high updoes the corruption extend, and to what extremeswill the perpetrators go to conceal it? Is theirpatron lying, using them as pawns in some com­plex scheme of his own? Can they trust anyone inthe company at all?

SCIENCE!Both the nss and GLIPS are major sponsors

of scientific investigation in the Glisten system.Although they have their own agents to undertakemany of these endeavors, sometimes they haveneed for outsiders, making them perfect patronsfor adventures.

THE FORUMThe Decennial Imperial Planetological Forum

is a major event for Glisten, bringing scientistsfrom all over the Imperium. The debate overGwilliam Webylo's unusual theories has sparked alot of interest. The characters might becomeinvolved in this debate by researching information,pro or con. For a conspiratorial twist, agents ofWerbylo or his enemies might wish to eliminateevidence that runs counter to their own position ­even if it means using violence to do so. In theheated world of academics, it's always possiblefor rivalries to veer out of control, making for adifferent type of Traveller adventure.

ADVENTURES ON GLISTEN 28

VARIATIONS ON THE THEMEThe Glisten presented in this Planetary

Survey is the "standard version" to which futureGURPS Traveller products will refer. However, itis not the only possible interpretation of this high­population asteroid system. Described below arethree such alternate interpretations, which a GMcan use in whole or in part to suit his own wishesand the needs of the campaign.

CORPORATE GLISTENThis version of Glisten diverged around 400.

In the canon history, Duke Amini Murikshaa ofMora encouraged the unification of the system'sunions and employees in the face of corporatehegemony. In Corporate Glisten's history, DukeMurikshaa's motivations differed greatly. Corningfrom a Denebian noble family of great antiquity,he fondly remembered the days when the sectorwas a great corporate playground. In his opinion,the megacorporations helped Deneb to grow andbecome an integral part of the Third Imperium. Hehoped that the Marches might follow the samepath, but feared that the independent rnindset of itscolonists was an active impediment to such adream. He saw Glisten's Corporate Wars as theperfect opportunity to test his theory.

Duke Murikshaa brokered a peace betweenthe corporations by threatening military interven­tion. Through his agent, Alexei Gro'un, the dukeargued that Glisten was a large and unruly system,whose vast potential could never be tapped withthe corporations constantly at one another'sthroats. By working together and delineatingspheres of influence, they could break the backs ofthe unions and reap the benefits of Glisten's tiches.

Not surprisingly, the corporations greeted thisplan with approval. Instead of accommodating theunions, the four major corporations of the system- as well as others that entered the region later ­sponsored alternate "labor associations" to lookafter the needs of their employees. Over time,these associations gained enough credibility toweaken the old unions and enable the corporationsto call the tune in Glisten. By 600, the corpora­tions were firmly in control; the GCA was a weakcentral agency designed to coordinate activitiesamong the major corporations of the system.

The current day in Corporate Glisten is morerigid; the entire system is structured to the needsof corporations large and small. Even asteroidcolonies like Ensu exist solely to create holovideoprograms and other entertainment for corporatepurposes. New unions, based on the distant mem­ories of their forebears, struggle vainly in thehope of reclaiming the "lost flame" of previousgenerations. Corporate Glisten is a less diverse,more acquisitive system - the perfect base formerchants, and a home for rebels againstcompany rule.

CONSPIRATORIALGLISTEN

On the surface, this version of Glisten is iden­tical to the system in the mainstream Travelleruniverse. What differs are the background details,hidden from everyday view - in particular, thenature of the asteroids in the system.

The GCA's traffic control system keeps care­ful track of all of the asteroids. Even though noteveryone is utilized or inhabited, the GCAknows about them all. It's unlikely there are anyhidden colonies or Ancient sites among the float­ing rocks - unless the GCA doesn't want peopleto discover them.

Conspiratorial Glisten assumes the GCA'straffic control system is a ruse designed to hide thepresence of asteroids whose nature is somehowout of the ordinary. They could hold anything:secret military bases, psionic colonies, or workingAncient artifacts. The exact nature of the conspira­cy is up to the GM, as are the reasons for theGCA's involvement. The presence of a naval anda Scout base, not to mention GLIPS, should pro­vide plenty of fodder for the GM looking to add alittle paranoia to his Traveller game.

30 ADVENTURES ON GLISTEN

Adventures in this alternate Glisten involvethe characters accidentally becoming involved inthe conspiracy, as they stumble upon an incongru­ous detail that leads them in search of the truth, asthe agents of the conspiracy attempt to preventthem from discovering more information - even ifit means killing them. Conspiratorial Glistenrequires a fair bit of thought and explanation bythe GM, but it could be a nice change of pace formany campaigns.

ROUGH-ANO-TUMBLEGLISTEN

This version of Glisten diverges right after theCorporate Wars. In it, Duke Murikshaa's planbackftred, resulting in the total ouster of all corpo­rations from the system. The unions and rabble­rousers turned on one another in a longer, bloodierconflict ... one that continues to the present day.

The GCA does not exist - or, if it does, it'san extremely weak advi ory panel staffed by

representatives from the many factions thatinhabit the Glisten system. Its deliberations arefractious and prone to impotence.

In this setting, individual asteroids take on amore significant role. Each one sets its own poli­cies, laws, and regulations. Traveling from one toanother might be hazardous, especially if theasteroids in question are members of competingfactions.

Rough-and-Tumble Glisten provides lots ofopportunities for mercenaries and spies. The GMcan determine how many factions exist withinthe system, as well as their relationships to oneanother. For the most part, the system is a free­for-all, without either large corporations orstrong unions to lead the vast populace. TheNavy and Scout bases maintain an Imperial pres­ence in the system and protect the residence ofthe Duchess, who is determined (against thewishes of her advisors) to bring order to thischaotic environment.

Alea, 16.Arbellatra Day, 6, 23, 27.Banfi Starport, 3,9,18,20,22,28.Baraccai Technum (BT), 11.Bilstein Yards, 3, 9,15-16,23,28.Chun, 18.Conspiratorial Glisten, 30-31.Control rating, 3, 20.Corporate Glisten, 30.Corporate Wars, 4-5, 30-31.Decennial Imperial Planetological

Forum, 14,29.Diplomacy, 17,28.Diseases, 19,26.District 268, 8,17,20-21,23.Duchess of Glisten, 3,9,21,31.Duke of Mora, 4-5,30-31.Ensu, 16,30.Erom, 15.Espionage, 28.Family life, 22.Gliss,3.Gliss Ten Coordinating

Corporation, 5-7.Glisten City, 10-12, 19.

Glisten Coordinating Authority(GCA) , 3, 7,9-10,12-13,18-20,22,24-25,27-31.

Glisten Institute of PlanetologicalStudies (GLIPS), 7-9,13-14,16,29-30.

Glisten Tourism Board, 18.Gro'un, 17-18.Gro'un, Alexei, 5,30.Ihatei, 3, 8, 18,28.llSS,4,8,13-14,29.Kumarigiis Base, 18.Liisharara Dii, 4-5.Ling Standard Products (LSP), 5-7,

10,15-16.Media,20.Mining School of Glisten, 16.Mistar, 16.Muktheswara, Avaraja, see

Duchess ofGListen.Murikshaa, Amini, see Duke of

Mora.

Namdet, 16.Nasrni,3.Pluvis Group, 15-16.

IN 0 EX

Population, 22.Quord,18.Rashid's FoUy, 16-17.Rough-and-Tumble Glisten, 31."Secret" asteroids, 18.Shuttles, 12.Special Services Branch, 12,21,25.Stemmetal Horizons, 5-7, 10,

14-16,27.Templates, 25.Thacen, 16.Therak, 15-16.Tourism, 27.Traffic control system, 10, 12,

18,30.Tubecars, 12.Vedfor, 16.Warem, 16.Was-bin,13-14.Zetetes, 21, 25, 29.

31

\NORLDS \NITHIN .JuMP-6 OF GLISTEN

CORRIDOR SECTORHEX STARPoRT GRAVITY HYDROGRAPHIC % PoPULATloN* CR WIN

NAME DIAMETER ATMOSPHERE CLIMATE GoV TYPE TL NOTES

GLISTEN SUBSECTOR1733 Lydia I 963 0.6 Trace None Cold 9,300 Dictator 0 6 2.01736 Melior II 1,000 0.75 Thin (T) None Normal 62,000 Subj. 0 7 2.5 Amber Zone1737 Egypt IV 10,149 1.1 Corrosive 64% V.Cold 92,000 Subj. 2 7 3.0 Naval Base1739 Aster III 8,017 0.9 Std. 100% Cold 7,400 Corporate 0 9 3.01836 Callia I 1,175 0.75 Thin None Normal 900 Mill. Techno 1 6 2.51932 Mithras JJI 8,328 1.15 Corrosive 52% Normal 900,000 RepDem 4 6 3.01934 Weiss IV 5,780 0.69 Std 21% Normal 9,000 Corporate 3 9 3.0 Amber Zone1935 Windsor III 7,396 1.2 Dense 31% Hot 60 Corporate 6 9 2.01937 Ovemale IV 4,139 0.8 Thin 39% Trop. 4.05 Mill. Multiple 6 9 4.01938 New Rome IV 7,995 0.6 V.Thin 70% Cold 700 Mill. Subj. 5 9 5.0 Naval Base1939 Craw III 5,140 0.8 Std. (T) 30% Normal 9.1 Mill. RepDem 2 5 3.02035 Aki TV 4.009 0.85 Thin (T) 34% Chilly 2.27 Bill. Bureau 5 9 5.5 Amber Zone2038 Trane III 5,996 0.72 V.Thin 90% Normal 70,000 AthDem I 10 3.02132 Centry I 1,989 0.78 V. Thin (T) 20% Cool 20,000 RepDem 5 6 2.52134 Caledonia III 5,115 0.81 Thin (T) 8% Normal 9 Mill. Oligarch 2 6 3.52137 Sorel I 4,040 1.1 Dense 49% Normal 9 Mill. Bureau 5 5 2.52138 Horosho III 3,008 0.69 V.Thin 72% Normal 900 Mill. Dictator 2 9 4.5 Sc. & Nav. Bases2140 Romar IV 3,992 0.76 Thin None Chilly 12,000 Techno 4 8 3.0 Sc. & Nav. Bases2231 Marastan II 2,846 0.98 Dense 60% Cold 92 Mill. Multiple I 6 3.52232 Crout I 4,071 0.6 V. Thin 46% Warm 3.05 Bill. Oligarchy 5 7 3.52233 Tirem III 7,334 0.85 Corrosive 54% Cold 6.7 Mill. Multiple 2 9 5.02234 Inthe III 802 0.54 None None Frozen 92,000 Bureau 5 9 3.02236 Tsarina I 999 0.36 V. Thin (T) None Cool 3.5 Mill. Oligarchy 4 6 3.02237 Wurzburg III 6,830 0.72 V. Thin (T) 50% Tropical 5,000 Anarchy 0 8 2.5 Am. Zone, Sc.Base2234 Hudn V 4,001 0.84 Trace 43% Normal 950 Mill. Bureau 5 8 5.02336 Bendor V 7,582 0.86 Thin 58% Normal 8 Mill. Techno 3 6 4.0 Sc. & Nav. Bases

TRINJS VEIL SUBSECTOR2534 Burtson III 4,102 0.98 Std 23 Normal 5 Mill. Subj. 0 9 3.52536 Sqllanine V 3,040 0.76 None None Frozen 800,000 Techno 0 9 4.02537 Dobham V 3,872 0.78 Thin None Normal 9,000 Techno 4 9 3.5 Scout Base2538 Pyramlls I 5,457 0.85 Std 59% Normal 8,000 Oligarchy 2 5 1.52539 Tisbe I 3,915 0.72 V. Thin 1% Cold 900,000 Dictator 6 6 2.52540 Aramis IV 5,991 0.83 Thin 92% Hot 10 Mill. Multiple 6 10 4.5

DISTRICT 26B SUBSECTOR1433 Noctocol I 690 0.92 V.Dense 52% Hot 61 mill. AthDem 3 6 3.01434 Tarkine III 3,853 0.57 Std 60% Normal 3 mill. Bureau 2 7 3.5 Am. Zone,Sc.Base1435 Dallia IV 7,462 0.79 Corrosive 49% Normal 620 mill. Bureau 1 9 5.01436 Talos I 2,890 0.63 V. Thin 32% V.Cold 800,000 Oligarchy 2 9 3.01533 Forine II 2,635 0.26 Trace 22% V.Cold 1.6 bill. Dictator 5 9 4.5J537 Mertactor IV 1,927 0.94 Std J9% Warm 60 Mill. Oligarchy J 9 4.51632 Milagro I J ,927 0.24 Trace 6% V.Cold 90 mill. Bureau 6 7 3.01634 Pagaton III 7,396 0.97 Std 93% Normal 938 bill. Multiple I 5 3.01635 Binges V 7,955 0.8J None None V.Cold 700 Oligarchy I 9 3.01637 Mille Fales IV 8,577 0.83 Exotic 21% Normal 30,000 Military 6 10 3.5

TRO.JAN REACH SECTORHEX STARPoRT GRAVITY HYDROGRAPHIC % PDPULATION* CR WIN

NAME DIAMETER ATMOSPHERE CLIMATE GoV TYPE TL NOTES

PAX RULIN SUBSECTOR1801 Candia II 4,188 0.64 None None Frozen 7.47 Mill Dictator 6 5 3.02002 Kryslion n 4,645 1.21 Dense 34% Normal 58.4 Bill. Dictator 6 9 4.52102 Cyan III 4,741 0.98 Std 82% Normal 5.3 Bill. Dictator 6 9 4.5

*Starport personnel not included.

32 WORLDS WITH I N JUMP-6

WorldType

GasGiant

TravelZone (red]

Location

World Types.~;.;:

Asteroid •....Vacuum 0Desert 0Normal •Water •

LEGEND

.Jump-6 Mapfor Glisten

Trojan Reach SectorGazulin Subsector ....lIIIIIIIlIIIIIIIlIlIIIIIIIIIIlIIIIIIII ""!I!!lll'6~l,," I

Spin\Nard Marches SectorTrin's Veil Subsector

Trojan Reach SectorPax Rulin Subsector

Trojan Reach SectorEgyrn Subsector

Spinward Marches SectorDistrict 268 Subsector

Worlds with population over a billion are named in all caps, e.g., GLISTEN. Worlds with population 10,000 or lessare named in all lower-case, e.g., binges. Worlds between these extremes are capitalized normally, e.g., Bendor.

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SJG00895 6804

FmsTEDmoPuBLISHED JULY 2001

ISBN 1-55634-531-350895

Written by

JAMES MALISZEWSKI

Based on the award-winning Travellerscience-fiction universe by

MARC MILLER

Edited by

ANDREW HACKARD

Cover by

JESSE DEGRAFF

illustrated by

GLENN GRANT

AND JESSE DEGRAFF

The GURPS Basic Set, GURPSTraveller, and GURPS Space arerequired for full use of this book in aGURPS campaign. The backgroundpresented here will be of great valueto any Traveller campaign, and willalso serve as a source of inspirationfor other SF games.