Some time ago, the expansion of the universe ceased and the great contraction began. Many species expected the universe to meet a cold and lifeless end, but the relentless compression suggests the cosmos will expire in a final blazing roar before collapsing into extinction. Although the contraction is slow and the inevitable fate of the universe is still trillions of years away, this looming annihilation is a concern for many. Even with the staggering immensity of space, the contraction coupled with the ever increasing number of space-faring races has made the surrounding territories a crowded place.