(OEZ) A colloquial term for the star systems on the [[Galactic Directions|outward]] edge of human space. There are many colonies in the OEZ that are not under the full control of the central governments. The [[Border Worlds Alliance]] uses this to their advantage, recruiting various local governments to pledge to their cause. Often, old colonies from [[Pre-Collapse]] eras are found as humanity slowly presses outward. This can create a momentary surge in colonists looking for quick riches, by recovering and selling [[Aloract|Aloracts]] or other technology.