The Rose galaxy is vast, with most of its star systems unclaimed and uncharted. Those which have been settled by sentient races first settled planets, then systems, then clusters. The larger the cluster, the lesser the uniformity of governance throughout its borders. Feudal sets of governance often rise due to the distance needed to mandate law for the outermost worlds in any given system. With exception are those systems which have been blessed, or cursed depending on one's outlook, with the Nautilan gates.

The only way to instantaneously travel thousands of lightyears without the negative effects of time dilation. An unseen web which connects nearly over a thousand star systems, each port guarded by at least a single Nautilan Cruiser. While it is true that the Nautilans have grown rich from the tolls required to pass through their gates, there is another fee which must be given before one may pass. A serum for the journey must be taken, which is said to quell the sensations of passing through spacetime in this way. Soon after a vial of one's being must be given unto the Nautilans. Their claim is that this allows them to test the other races to ensure compatibility as they make improvements and changes to their gates. While it is almost certainly tracked in various databases, many have visions of Nautilans within their minds while passing through, and still others for many years after. Some claim it is a method of dissuasion, to instill fear of attempting any sort of coup. Others believe it allows them to actively view the intention of every passer through. In any case, some have still tried to claim gates for themselves, and all who have met a swift end.

Outside each star cluster lies what is commonly referred to as the "Great Between". Mostly empty, apart from incredibly sparse planetoids, asteroids, and other objects, some of which host harbors for pilgrims. Those who live here never leave and those who pass through, never return. These places offer rest and resupply to those who dedicate their lives to a journey who's end is rarely seen by them but rather their offspring or their kin still beyond. Further still lie other dangers, beyond ensuring one has enough food and supplies for these crossings. There are said to be creatures, humanoids and otherwise, who patrol these near empty stretches of space. 

For humanity, one cluster lies more dear than the rest. The Sentarin cluster is the fountain from which humanity first sprang. The first pilgrims left here taking 10 generations to reach and found Jeune. While this was the first it was not the last. Others carved out systems and clusters while others journey still in search of new pastures for humanity.