Couriers

Since distances between star systems is so large, and the only means of travel between them is via Alter-Space drives, communications between colonies is handled via courier vessels.

Small, fast, and capable of carrying vast amounts of information and a limited amount of critical cargo, the courier vessel is the cornerstone of stellar governance.

The Confederate's courier vessel features two large automated plasma motors and alter-space drives in nacelles on either sides of the vessel. They are the fastest known ships in current service, and are almost impossible to intercept. The Lian Confederation couriers are all in the service of a quasi military organization called The Courier Service (TCS). Some black fleet couriers exist, but they don't wear the fleet's uniform, nor have specially painted ships, and thus blend in with the rest of the service.

The Hegemony's courier service is operated by many small and two large courier companies. Ships of all sizes and shapes and capabilities are used, and when in direct service of the Hegemony, transmit a special code to give them priority over other vessels. Within the Hegemony, laws prohibit the Military from operating their own courier service.

In the unaligned colonies, couriers and smugglers are often one in the same, and getting by as they can.