Trade Routes

The arteries of galactic civilization. Where ships travel, commerce flows—and so do secrets.

Major Route Types

Core-to-Core Routes

Connections between wealthy systems:

• Highest traffic volume
• Most sophisticated infrastructure
• Frequent patrol presence
• Luxury goods and high-value cargo

Core-to-Fringe Routes

Connections between center and periphery:

• Longer distances with fewer stops
• Patrol presence concentrated at endpoints
• Resources flow inward, consumer goods outward
• Variable travel times and security

Fringe-to-Fringe Routes

Connections between peripheral systems:

• Often unofficial or informal
• Minimal infrastructure
• Almost nonexistent oversight
• Freedom of movement—and vulnerability

Infrastructure

Relay Stations

Communication and navigation support:

• Boost communication signals
• Provide navigation data
• Emergency services coordination
• Dense in core regions, sparse toward fringe

Fuel Depots

Refueling infrastructure:

• Major stations with full service
• Minor depots with fuel only
• Automated facilities
• Black market options in remote areas

Traffic Control

• Mandatory in core systems
• Assigned approach vectors
• Transponder verification
• Minimal on fringe routes

Commerce

Legitimate Trade

The lifeblood of the Confederation:

• Raw materials from colonies
• Manufactured goods to colonies
• Interstellar consumer products
• Operated by major corporations and independent freighters

The Shadows

Where official oversight ends:

• Smuggling avoids tariffs
• Black market goods bypass restrictions
• False manifests and transponders
• Those who know the gaps can move unseen

Trade routes form the backdrop of the Fannec Records series, determining where the crew can travel safely—and where they must take risks.