Editing Solaris City

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	:'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Triads, Tongs		:'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Triads, Tongs
−	A clear example of how the reality of Solaris often differs from that of the greater Inner Sphere, the House Liao sector has a reputation for the highest standards of living in Solaris City. Cathay also has the greatest divide between the haves and have-nots, plagued by widespread criminal activity and serving as home for many of the [[Triads and Tongs]]. Following the Fourth Succession War the loyalties of Cathay fractured as its inhabitants and neighborhoods looked towards three different leaders for guidance and identity - [[Tormano Liao]], [[Candace Liao]] and [[Romano Liao]] - with the ''[[Xin Sheng]]'' revival and the [[Capellan Civil War]] only increasing tensions between the Capellan suburbs and Stables.<ref name="SBS-PGp32">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 32: "Cathay"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-72b>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', pp. 72–73: "A Brief History of Solaris VII - A Tour of Solaris City - Cathay -The Drive-By"</ref>	+	A clear example of how the reality of Solaris often differs from that of the greater Inner Sphere, the House Liao sector has a reputation for the highest standards of living in Solaris City. Cathay also has the greatest divide between the haves and have-nots, plagued by widespread criminal activity and serving as home for many of the [[Triads and Tongs]]. Following the Fourth Succession War the loyalties of Cathay fractured as its inhabitants and neighborhoods looked towards three different leaders for guidance and identity - [[Tormano Liao]], [[Candace Liao]] and [[Romano Liao]] - with the [[Xin Sheng]] revival and the [[Capellan Civil War]] only increasing tensions between the Capellan suburbs and Stables.<ref name="SBS-PGp32">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 32: "Cathay"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-72b>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', pp. 72–73: "A Brief History of Solaris VII - A Tour of Solaris City - Cathay -The Drive-By"</ref>
	Cathay is divided into five suburbs. The Chancellor's Quarter is located to the southwest and is the home of Cathay's elite, boasting many of the most beautiful and expensive residences in Solaris City, a standing it maintained thanks to lavish support for [[Free Capella]], though the loss of Federated Suns funding following the Clan Invasion resulted in a decline. Middle Town to the east holds most of Cathay's highlands and is the home of the sector's upper and middle class, this sector received the mocking nickname of the Middle Kingdom for its loyalty toward the [[St. Ives Compact]]. The remaining residential sectors to the northeast and wet all remained loyal to [[Sian]]. River Town is the first neighborhood considered part of the slums of the sector. Densely populated, most of the triads and gangs recruit here. Tenement Area is a place where crushing poverty is the rule, home of cheap imported foreign labor and full of drug dealers, slum gangs, extortionist, enforcers and protection racketeers.{{Anchor|The Maze}}''The Maze'' is the center of Cathay's crime and poverty. [[Mafia]], [[yakuza]], triads and tongs and numerous other smaller groups base their operations in the labyrinth of streets, their control of the Maze so total that the authorities are practically forbidden to enter. A notable number of supporters of [[Kali Liao]] also call the Maze home.<ref name="SBS-PGp33a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 33: "Neighborhoods"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-72b/><ref name=MWGS128-133/>		Cathay is divided into five suburbs. The Chancellor's Quarter is located to the southwest and is the home of Cathay's elite, boasting many of the most beautiful and expensive residences in Solaris City, a standing it maintained thanks to lavish support for [[Free Capella]], though the loss of Federated Suns funding following the Clan Invasion resulted in a decline. Middle Town to the east holds most of Cathay's highlands and is the home of the sector's upper and middle class, this sector received the mocking nickname of the Middle Kingdom for its loyalty toward the [[St. Ives Compact]]. The remaining residential sectors to the northeast and wet all remained loyal to [[Sian]]. River Town is the first neighborhood considered part of the slums of the sector. Densely populated, most of the triads and gangs recruit here. Tenement Area is a place where crushing poverty is the rule, home of cheap imported foreign labor and full of drug dealers, slum gangs, extortionist, enforcers and protection racketeers.{{Anchor|The Maze}}''The Maze'' is the center of Cathay's crime and poverty. [[Mafia]], [[yakuza]], triads and tongs and numerous other smaller groups base their operations in the labyrinth of streets, their control of the Maze so total that the authorities are practically forbidden to enter. A notable number of supporters of [[Kali Liao]] also call the Maze home.<ref name="SBS-PGp33a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 33: "Neighborhoods"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-72b/><ref name=MWGS128-133/>

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{{Cleanup|reason=review needed|date=September 2023}} <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image: Solaris City Card.jpg|left|260px]] [[Image: Solaris_City.jpg|left|260px]] The city is located near the heart of Grayland and enjoys annual rainfall that averages around 160 centimeters and feeds marshlands to the south, north and east, with the air almost constantly damp and the streets forever slick.<ref name=FMR>''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised'', p. 14: "The Game World"</ref> '''Solaris City''' is the capital and beating heart of the Game World, and it is the home of the movers and shakers of [[Solaris VII]]. The city was surveyed and plotted in [[2370]]<ref name="SBS-PGp22">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 22: "Solaris Sites"</ref>).The original layout changed to its Division into six principal districts and the suburbs around 2700. Starting in the 2700s,<ref name="SBS-PGp22"/> several ethnic neighborhoods were created. The International Zone holds no specific allegation, but each of the other neighborhoods is considered aligned with one of the five [[Great Houses]]. These are the '''Black Hills''' ([[House Davion|''Davion'']]), '''Cathay''' ([[House Liao|''Liao'']]), '''Silesia''' ([[House Steiner|''Steiner'']]), '''Montenegro''' ([[House Marik|''Marik'']]), and '''Kobe''' ([[House Kurita|''Kurita'']]). Each of the districts hosts a Class Six arena, where the top [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarriors]] battle each year to determine the [[Solaris Games#Grand Tournament|champion]]. Residents of the sectors are actually still considered citizens of their respective nations, so '''Solaris City''' finds itself the home of many individuals who are ''persona non grata'' in their home nations, but still wish to remain citizens. Because of this phenomenon, the residents of '''Solaris City''' are often unrepresentative of the people from their parent nation. The city was home to some five million people around 3055. The city itself is almost divided in equal half part by the Solaris River. Several bridges connect both sides of the city. The Solaris City underworld was composed of a vast network of tunnels, underground repair bays and storage facilities that ran under the city, allowing 'Mechs to move around without disrupting traffic in the streets. Each arena was tied into this network, as were the spaceport and the main 'Mech yards for each sector.<ref name=AoR-C20>''Assumption of Risk'', ch. 20</ref> The tunnels connecting these hubs were fifteen meters high to accommodate even the tallest BattleMech and sixty meters wide at the narrowest point. Only four tunnels crossed under the Solaris River. The one that went deep stretch under the Cathay lowlands was the most difficult as water seepage was a problem throughout Solaris VII's wet months (which were most of the year). There were also issues with the tunnels on hilly terrain of the Davion sector of the Black Hills, which compounded one problem area with another. Aligning the tunnels of the Black Hills with those of the Cathay lowlands had been extremely difficult, so that only three main passages existed to pass from one sector to the other. Two of them had required the construction of ramps that allowed aboveground travel for a few blocks. These rose up in the middle of the Black Hills' extensive slums where no one minded inconveniencing the residents. One of the known passes goes to Frances Avenue ramp.<ref name=IoV-C10>''Illusions of Victory'', ch. 10</ref> '''Solaris City''' is ringed by a suburb known as '''Xolara''', which itself is surrounded by '''Burgton'''. To the northeast is '''Roland Fields''', while '''Bracken Swamp''' is to the southwest. Many native Solarans live in these suburbs, as also do most of the [[Periphery]] natives, while [[FRR|Rasalhagians]] tend to live in Xolara. '''Xolara''', '''Burgton''', '''Rolland Fields''' and '''Bracken Swamp''' are sometimes collective known as '''The Reaches'''. <div style="clear:both"></div> == International Zone == <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image: International_Zone.JPG|right|260px]] [[Image:Internationa_Zone_Sector.PNG|right|260px]] :'''Location:''' Solaris City, southwest side :'''Dominant Affiliation:''' None (Lyran authority) :'''Population:''' 430,000 as per [[3068]]<ref name=SWIZp13>''The Solaris Watchman'', p. 13: "International Zone"</ref> :'''Dominant Language:''' English :'''Per Capita Income:''' 18,700 C-bills as per 3068<ref name=SWIZp13/> :'''Below Poverty Level:''' 12.4% as per 3068<ref name=SWIZp13/> :'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Mafia, Yakuza, Triads The International Zone is governed by Solaris' central authority and primarily serves as a transportation and general utilities hub, in addition to various tourist attractions. The main spaceport is located in the International Zone, offering access to the mass transit system which crisscrosses the entire city. The Solaris Police Department is known for its professionalism and incorruptibility, though they are often unwelcome in other zones, while the Solaris Times provides a full listing of upcoming fights and their associated spreads. After the Jihad, to try to hide its ravages on the city, colorful advertisement-plastered barriers screen the wreckage of the city along the route between the starport and the arenas, a sort of Potemkin Village. The new hotels also use tri-vid windows to hide the wreckage, often by showing "old" Solaris City.<ref name=AToWp821/> <div style="clear:both"></div> ===Known Locations=== * {{Anchor|AutoRow}}'''Auto Row''' - Located next to Hotel Row this is the place to hire top-of-the-line cars, from Avanti sedans to Zoast sportsters.<ref name=MWGS70>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', pp. 70–72: "A Brief History of Solaris VII - A Tour of Solaris City - The International Zone - The Drive-By"</ref> * '''Astrid Palmer Memorial Hospital''' - Located between Brass Street and Ash Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the best equipped hospital in the city, and wounded MechWarriors and wealthy foreigners use it.<ref name="SBS-PGp27b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 27: "International Zone - Miscellaneous"</ref> * '''BattleMech Center''' - Located between Porter Street and New Avalon Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> the center features individual pods in which participants control a simulated 'Mech guiding it through computer generated trivid terrain.<ref name="SBS-PGp25">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 25: "International Zone - Entertainment"</ref> * '''BattleTech Museum''' - Located between Apollo Street and Raglan Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is one of the most popular tourist spots. It displays BattleMech technology, interactive demonstrations of combat, piloting, strategy and tactics, and valuable artifacts from the Succession Wars. The site is well protected. The crown's treasures include the cockpit from [[Aleksandr Kerensky]]'s ''[[Orion]]'', a head and partial torso from a ''[[Mackie]]'', a group of ancient [[Kurita]] flags and [[Kenyon Marik]]'s personal banner.<ref name="SBS-PGp26">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 26: "International Zone - Points of Interest"</ref> * '''Budget Transport''' - Located between Porter Street and New Avalon Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this company's headquarters is located in the '''International Zone''', and it rents out personal hovercraft for daily jaunts through the city. The company has smaller offices located through the rest of the city.<ref name="SBS-PGp26_27">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', pp. 26–27: "International Zone - Transportation"</ref> * '''Central Utilities Building''' - Located between Jade Street and James Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', pp. 128–133: "Location Index"</ref> this is the place where heat, water and power are motorized and distributed to all city<ref name="SBS-PGp23">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 23: "City Administration"</ref> * '''City 'Mech Bays''' - Located between Victoria Way and the Solaris Spaceport,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is the place where arriving 'Mechs are checked in, inspected and registered by [[Solaris Games]] Officials. This is a mandatory step.<ref name="SBS-PGp23"/> This was the center of a lot of fighting during the '''Solaris Riots''' as it was seen as a place to get replacement 'Mechs and spare parts. * '''City Police Department''' - Located between Hemlock Street and New Avalon Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is the Central Police facility in the city.<ref name="SBS-PGp23"/> The Solaris Police Department (SPD) though highly regarded by the police departments of other sectors, usually only patrols the '''International Zone''' as the other PD make it feel uncomfortable outside it. They handle crimes against the foreigners or against [[Solaris VII]] as a whole. But crime made by foreigners will be handled by the district police departments.<ref name=MWGS70/> * '''[[The Cracked Canopy]]''' - A MechWarrior bar located on the corner of Memorial Avenue and Defiance Street, the venue takes up the entire bottom floor of a three-story building, a cracked ''[[Catapult]]'' canopy rumored to be from a [[Word of Blake]] 'Mech mounted over the main doors. The ''Cracked Canopy'' features a "Memory Wall" that displays mementos of victories and defeats during the Jihad both on Solaris and elsewhere to serve as a remembrance of those lost. Each enshrined object has a story to tell and anybody is allowed to place an item on the wall as long as it's inorganic and non-Blakist.<ref name=STOBTM1>''Tales from the Cracked Canopy: Blind Arrogance''</ref> *{{Anchor|Cy's 'Mech City}}'''Cy's 'Mech City''' - Located between Powers Avenue and James Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this company deals with scrapped and rebuilt BattleMechs. It is the only one of this type in the International Zone and it is considered neutral territory. The quality of the 'Mech can range to serviceable machines valid for novice MechWarriors to barely recognizable scrap useful only for spare parts. The shop is owned by [[Cy Armstrong]], a typical used-vehicle salesman.<ref name="SBS-PGp27">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 27: "'Mech Tech"</ref> Armstrong is known to have [[Black Market Connections (CCG - CommandersEdition)|Black Market Connections]]. * '''Solaris Civic Hall''' - Located between Porter Street and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is the place where the [[Solaris Civic Council]] meets daily.<ref name="SBS-PGp23"/> * ComStar [[HPG]] - While located at Regency Street and Halloran Street within Black Hills, the planet's class A HPG station falls within the purview of the International Zone and is busy day and night.<ref name="UNBOUNDp38">''Unbound'', p. 38: "Rampage"</ref><ref name=MWGS70/><ref name=MWGtS7-128>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', pp. 128–133: "Location Index"</ref> * '''ComStar Community Center''' - Located between Greenway Avenue and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the structure where the [[ComStar]] acolytes and adepts operating the HPG live and work. Unknown to most, this is also the place, hidden in an underground bunker beneath the building, where a [[Level III]] of the [[247th Division (ComStar)|247th Division]] Thought of War IV-pi is based. The facility could support half a [[Level IV]] with all the supporting elements as AFVs and aerofighters.<ref name="SBS-PGp27b"/> * '''Solaris General Court''' - Located between Madelynn Avenue and Ashley Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the Court destined to crimes against foreigners, damage to public property or smuggling are tried here (each sector deals with most crimes in their zones). Those convicted will be sent to the Solaris Prison near Xolara.<ref name="SBS-PGp23"/> Chief Prosecutor [[Josef Dukes]] became famous as the prosecutor of the [[3074]] trials against [[WoB]] supporters.<ref name="Trials">''Dukes-Haider Trials Over''</ref> *{{Anchor|Golden Atlas}}'''Golden Atlas''' - Located between Watney Street and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a cheap hotel with cramped rooms and an indifferent or rude staff. But the Casino it hosts (both for [[Solaris Games]] matches or traditional games), is a major tourist attraction. It is owned by [[Geraldo Pérez]] who will defend his staff and check against cheaters. A small army of bouncers will take care of infractions.<ref name="SBS-PGp24_25">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', pp. 24–25: "International Zone - Hotels"</ref> * {{Anchor|Grafina Gerbert Concert Hall}}'''Grafina Gerbert Concert Hall''' - Located between Victoria Way and James Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is an imposing neoclassical structure where orchestras perform the music of three millennia.<ref name="SBS-PGp25"/> * '''Guild Hall''' - Located between Powers Avenue and Minnesota Way,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a long warehouse-like structure decorated in Greco-Roman motif. It is the place where brokers, talent scouts and representatives of the Successor Houses, Periphery states and mercenary units go looking for young talent. This means that it is invariably packed with MechWarriors looking for those opportunities.<ref name="SBS-PGp27"/> * The '''First Solaris Bank'''<ref name="SBS-PGp24b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 24: "International Zone - Tourist Services"</ref> is located between Jade Street and Halloran Street<ref name=MWGS128-133/> * '''Founders Bridge''' - Located between Cable Street and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it's an ugly span of black metal over the Solaris River. This is the oldest bridge of the city, its pilings dating back to the city's earliest days.<ref name="SBS-PGp26_27"/> * '''The Imperial''' - Located between Hemlock Street and James Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a midrange hotel with an average restaurant (the '''Imperial Restaurant'''), that nevertheless is one of the most popular hotels on Solaris. Only major property damage or flagrant lawbreaking will make the police be called.<ref name="SBS-PGp24_25"/> * '''Solaris Mall''' - Located between Roberts Street and Minnesota Way,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> is a tourist trap for them to buy souvenirs, clothing, books, pictures and other items. It includes a Theater specialized in 'Mech-related movies.<ref name="SBS-PGp25"/> ** '''Battle Theater''' - This is a first-class tri-vid theater.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> ** '''Grigg's Souvenirs''' - This is a cheap souvenirs can be found here.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> ** '''Mechboox''' - This is a bookstore which has an extensive selection of 'Mech-related books.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> ** '''Mechflix''' - This is a store with a complete line of 'Mech-related tri-vid.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> ** '''Nakatomi Clothiers''' - This is a shop where a complete line of 'Mech duel apparel can be bought.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> ** '''Solaris Memories''' - This is shop where expensive and tasteful souvenirs can be bought.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> *{{Anchor|The MechWarrior}}'''The MechWarrior''' - Located between Burl Avenue and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the premier sports bar in Solaris City, high-class and high prices. It is owned and managed by [[Akim Rashid]], and rumors say he can provide any form or entertainment (illegal ones too) for the right price.<ref name="SBS-PGp25"/> * '''Monorail''' - This is a sleek bullet train that runs on a magnetic rail carrying visitors from the spaceport to Hotel Row.<ref name="SBS-PGp26_27"/> It goes from Bass Street to Halloran Street.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> * '''Pop TV''' - This is a building belonging to one of the many trivid corporations on Solaris, it was destroyed by [[Mandole Mgwane]]'s ''[[Jinggau]]'' during the first [[Word of Blake]] attack on 16 June [[3068]].<ref name=DoJp51>''Dawn of the Jihad'', p. 51: "Solaris Attacked"</ref> * '''Solaris Public transport''' - The Company's headquarter is located here. This company runs buses through Solaris City.<ref name="SBS-PGp26_27"/> * '''Rail Station''' - This station connects the city to several locations out the main company.<ref name="SBS-PGp26_27"/> * The Solaris '''River Water Park''' - Located between Siriwan Street and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a narrow strip of green hugs that provides whomever walks here with a pleasant place for relaxation. At night, its thick hedges and shaggy fir trees make excellent locations for secret meetings, contraband and other illegal transactions.<ref name="SBS-PGp26"/> * '''Rover Park Zoological Gardens''' - This is a collection of Terran and extraterrestrial animal life.<ref name="SBS-PGp26"/> * '''Hotel Row''' - This is the section of the city where most of the hotels can be found, and it is located between Hemlock Street and James Street.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> They are known for their outrageous prices and spectacular service, accommodations and views.<ref name="SBS-PGp24_25"/> * '''The Royale''' - Located between Hemlock Street and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the second most luxury hotel in the city, targeting wealthy clientele. The hotel has two highly recommended restaurants, '''The Crystal Rose''' on the main floor and the '''Stargazer Lounge''' on the top floor - also offering one of the best views of Solaris City.<ref name="SBS-PGp24_25"/> * '''Hotel Solaris''' - Located between Porter Street and James Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the ultimate budget accommodation (looking like an ugly cinderblock box). The hotel is usually packed with tourist on cut-rate tours, and by the underworld who use it as a meeting place and transfer point. They know that only in event of gun play or major bloodshed the authorities will be called.<ref name="SBS-PGp24_25"/> * '''Steel Bridge''' - This bridge, part of the Solaris Highway 1,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> is a two-deck bridge that allows conventional ground traffic (upper deck) and train (lower deck).<ref name="SBS-PGp26_27"/> The bridge was blown during the Solaris Riots on 3062, broken so much that water was able to enter in one of the under-river tunnels.<ref name="IoV-C12">''Illusions of Victory'', ch. 12</ref> * The [[Solaris Broadcasting Corporation]] - Located between Porter Street and New Avalon Street.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> This is the primary distribution point for the bulk of the [[holovid]] footage of the [[Solaris Games]] sent to the [[Inner Sphere]] and beyond.<ref name=HHS-120>''Handbook: House Steiner'', p. 120: "Media and the Arts - Solaris Broadcasting Corporation"</ref><ref name=S7PB-24>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Book", p. 24: "International Zone - Information"</ref><ref name=MWGS70/><ref name=MWGtS7-128/> * The '''Solaris Exchange''' - Located between Haven Street and Minnesota Way. As this city is where all Inner Sphere currencies can be found, this place is where brisk business, most cases in the realm of foreign-currency speculation, is done.<ref name="SBS-PGp27b"/><ref name=MWGS128-133/> * {{anchor|Solaris Times}}The '''Solaris Times''' - Located between Victory Way and James Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is the city's largest newspaper, located in a Baroque structure with a clock tower. Bordering sensationalism (but never at tabloid level) the newspaper is published morning and evening, in both flat and [[Tri-vid]] formats. Death or injury are not uncommon fates for reporters who push too far.<ref name="SBS-PGp24a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 24: "Information"</ref> * '''Solaris Hilton''' - Located between Victoria Way and the Solaris Spaceport,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the city's prime hotel and the most expensive. Its restaurant, '''The Amber Garden''', located in the main floor, has been described as a four-star restaurant with five-star prices. This is the hotel where visiting nobles, famous MechWarriors, wealthy merchants and other Inner Sphere elites will come. Security, enforced by [[Aldo Riesfield]] is very strict.<ref name="SBS-PGp24_25"/> <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:Solaris_Spaceport.PNG|right|260px]] * The Solaris VII '''Spaceport'''.<ref name="UNBOUNDp38"/><ref name=MWGtS7-128/> In [[3059]] the first thing visitors see is a replica of the [[Gunslinger]] 'Mech, standing three meters tall (only a fourth the size of the actual, but still towering) over the crowd.<ref name="IoVp6">''Illusions of Victory'', Prelude, p. 6</ref> After the Jihad, the spaceport is gone from the city's southwest corner, along with its polished road, rail and air links to the rest of the planet. Since then, visitors arrive on its hastily patched [[ferrocrete]] landing field with basic hangars and a control tower, to be met by buses beside the grounded DropShip. The new terminal was a bare skeleton that would not be completed before [[3079]].<ref name=AToWp821>''A Time of War'', pp. 382–385: "Solaris VII"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> * The [[Star League Dome]] - Located where Robinson Avenue meets the Solaris River was supposed to be the new Class Six Arena. The building was under construction from [[3065]] to [[3068]], when it was destroyed by the [[Word of Blake]].<ref name=CBMPp18/> * The '''Star League Park''' - Located and the end of the '''Hotel Row''',<ref name="SBS-PGp26"/> between Porter Street and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a park where there is a statue of the [[SLDF]] [[General]] [[Amanda Klark]]. The park itself is one of the landmarks of the city.<ref name=Unboundp7>''Unbound'', p. 7: "Getting Started"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-128/> * '''Thelos Auburn Grove''' - Located between Shift Shore Drive and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a semicircle of trees that features a statue of [[Thelos Auburn]], late court historian to [[House Steiner]].<ref name="SBS-PGp26"/> The Grove was destroyed in 3065 to make space for the '''Star League Dome'''.<ref name=CBMPp18>''MapPack: Solaris VII'', p. 18: "New Class Six Stadium"</ref> * The '''Solaris Tourist Bureau'''<ref name="SBS-PGp24b"/> is located between Fir Street and New Avalon Street.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> * '''The Solaris Tower''' - Located between Apollo Street and Minnesota Way,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a monument topped with the symbols of the five [[Successor States|Successor Houses]], it was built as a tribute to "the fighting spirit of Solaris VII". The view is incredible.<ref name="SBS-PGp26"/> * '''White Bridge''' - This is a reverse suspension bridge<ref name="SBS-PGp26_27"/> that connects [[Silesia]] and [[Montenegro]].<ref name=MWGS128-133/> <br> <br> ==Black Hills== <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image: SolarisCity_Comstar_Compound.JPG|right|260px]] [[Image: Black_Hills.JPG|right|260px]] [[Image:Black_Hills_Sector.PNG|right|260px]] :'''Location:''' Solaris City, central southwest side :'''Dominant Affiliation:''' [[Federated Suns]] :'''Population:''' 460,000 as per 3068<ref name=SWBHp13>''The Solaris Watchman'', p. 13: "Black Hills"</ref> :'''Dominant Language:''' English :'''Per Capita Income:''' 19,000 C-bills as per 3068<ref name=SWBHp13/> :'''Below Poverty Level:''' 10.3% as per 3068<ref name=SWBHp13/> :'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Mafia, Triads The House Davion sector is a study in contrasts, with the uphill mansions butting against the slums of the Lowlands (situated in the northeastern section of '''Black Hills'''<ref name=MWGS128-133/>) to the east, where crime runs rampant with the authorities unable to do anything. The local police department is well staffed, including a [[lance]] of light 'Mechs for civil disturbances. Popular points of interest include the Sun and Sword Hotel, the Silver Swan restaurant and Running Fox Country Club, though the biggest draw for tourists is the '''Boreal Reach''' arena, the most popular of the five Open Class arenas. Some streets on that district are Bunyan Street, Twain Street and Bunyan Road.<ref name="EnGarde">''En Garde'', ch. 24, p. 92</ref> Sunnyside Drive, Frances Avenue and Victory Way are the major thoroughfares crossing from the International Zone into the Black Hills sector.<ref name=MWGS72-A>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', p. 72: "A Brief History of Solaris VII - A Tour of Solaris City - The Black Hills - The Drive-By"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> The rich live in the tony neighborhood of '''Hazelwood Heights''' up on the hill, while more modest accommodations can be found in '''Hazelwood Flats'''.<ref name="LR">''Lion's Roar''</ref> ===Known Locations=== * '''All Saints Cathedral''' - Sometimes styled All'''-'''Saints Cathedral, it is located between Sunnyside Drive and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is an Anglican shrine and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture (discordant with the rest of the Black Hills designs). The most known internal feature is a portrayal of David and Goliath where Goliath seems modeled on the AS7-D ''[[Atlas (BattleMech)|Atlas]]''. The church is manned by Father [[John Cooper]] who specializes in counseling MechWarriors and those involved in the games.<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', pp. 29–30: "Black Hills - Points of Interest"</ref> * '''Barchetta House''' - The best known and most active auction house in the Inner Sphere dealing with the sale of equipment from bankrupt and disbanded mercenary units, Barchetta House earns well over 550,000,000 C-bills within its standard four-month operating period.<ref name=MH3055-97>''Mercenary's Handbook 3055'', p. 97: "Running a Mercenary Unit - Buying Equipment - Mercenary Auction"</ref> * The [[Black Hills Urban Combat Zone]], created after the [[Jihad]] from a piece of the sector that was not repaired<ref name=XTRORFp26>''Experimental Technical Readout: Royal Fantasy'', p. 26: "Boreal Reach (Davion Arena) - Post-Jihad Modifications"</ref> and centered around the ruble that surrounded the '''New Avalon Technologies'''.<ref name=WH>''Wolf Hunters''</ref> *{{Anchor|Mainline MechWarriors}}'''Blue Hills Mainline MechWarriors''' - Located between Pine Street and Ash Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a brokerage house specialized in F-C warriors owned by [[Una Bradley]].<ref name="SBS-PGp31c"/><ref name=FMR/> * The Open Class arena [[Boreal Reach]],<ref name="SBS-PGp29-30"/> located between Marx Way and Foster Road.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> * '''Callista's Bluff''' - Located between Stallman Street and Hanse Davion Drive,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the home of [[Fiona Louden]], [[White Hand Stables]] stablemaster. The house includes a 'Mech bay in the rear that can accommodate two BattleMechs and a practice field for training (where 'Mechs cannot run or fire their weapons).<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31"/> * '''City Tours''' - Located between Princeton Street and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is home of the company that organizes Wheeled buses to carry tourist throughout Solaris City.<ref name="SBS-PGp29b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 29: "Tourist Services"</ref> * '''Davion Arms''' - Located between Frances Avenue and Hanse Davion Drive,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> is formed by a group of high-class condos that house numerous wealthy Davionists.<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31"/> * '''Davion General Hospital''' - Located between Porter Street and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the hospital on the Davion district, and does not discriminate about its clientele.<ref name="SBS-PGp31c">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 31: "Miscellaneous"</ref> * '''Deadly Sins Stables''' - The [[Seven Deadly Sins Stables]] central place, it is a large brick warehouse that most probably dates from the [[First Succession War]].<ref name="UNBOUNDp60">''Unbound'', p. 60: "Deadly Sins Stable"</ref> * '''First F-C Bank''' - Located between Preslynn Street and Hanse Davion Drive,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the first bank from F-C citizens.<ref name="SBS-PGp29b"/> *{{Anchor|F-C Broadcasting}}'''F-C Broadcasting''' - Located between Princeton Street and New Avalon Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the single largest broadcasting company in the [[Inner Sphere]].<ref name="SBS-PGp29a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 29: "Black Hills - Information"</ref> *{{Anchor|F-C News Service}}'''F-C News Service''' - Located between Greenway Avenue and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a print media company that produces most of the popular sports reports in the [[Inner Sphere]].<ref name="SBS-PGp29a"/> * '''Federated Commonwealth Information Center''' - Located between Fontaine Street and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the place to get information on the [[Federated Commonwealth]].<ref name="SBS-PGp29a"/> The most friendly service among all similar ones in Solaris, they are even known to help those trying to get citizenship.<ref name=MWGS72-A/> * '''Federated Commonwealth Police Department''' - Located between Sunnyside Drive and Hanse Davion Drive,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this structure houses a thousand of police officers and support vehicles, including a lance of recon 'Mechs modified for crowd control.<ref name="SBS-PGp28">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 28: "Black Hills - City Administration"</ref> During the time of the [[Federated Commonwealth]] dispute between [[Victor Steiner-Davion]] and [[Katherine Steiner-Davion]] there were several riots and the police was much more active than in any other time.<ref name=MWGS72-A/> * '''Freedom Gate''' - Located between Winchester Street and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> is an elaborate archway crowned with the Davion sunburst was built in [[2892]] to commemorate the Federated Suns' victory over House Kurita on [[Robinson]]. The monument is periodically defaced by Kuritan or Liao graffiti.<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31"/> * '''Green Mansion''' - Located between St. Helens Avenue and April Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is home of [[Drew Hasek-Davion]], [[Blackstar Stables]] owner. The house is a garish dwelling set on carefully manicured grounds.<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31"/> * '''Guzman Park''' - Located between Halstead Street and Autoni Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a heavily forested park with winding trails, fountains, tennis courts and several soccer fields. After dark the place becomes quite dangerous as there have been several turf battles between various slum gangs.<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31"/> * '''Hanse Davion Medical Center''' - Another hospital in Black Hills.<ref name="LR"/> * '''Luxury Transport''' - Located between Fountain Street and Hanse Davion Drive,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the company that sells speeders, ground cars and hover-cars to whomever can buy it. The company has several contacts with stablemasters, nobles and even the occasional crime boss. The company is owned by [[Daniel Drake]].<ref name="SBS-PGp31">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 31: "Black Hills - Transportation"</ref> * '''Marina''' - Located between North America Street and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> is the place where wealthy Davionists docks their yachts and houseboats under the security of mercenary guards and their speedboats.<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31"/> * '''Mass Transit''' - Located between Stallman Street and Hanse Davion Drive, this is a mass transit depot.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> * '''Mirabilis House''' - Located between Sunny Drive Street and Hanse Davion Drive,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the house of [[Count]] [[Victor Danning]] from [[Doneval II]] and his wife [[Amanda Danning|Amanda]].<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31"/> *{{Anchor|'Mech Sales}}''''Mech Sales''' - Located between Winchester Street and Garibalo Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is owned by [[Roger Epstein]], known for his negotiation skills. The company sells high-quality rebuilt 'Mechs.<ref name="SBS-PGp31b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 31: "Black Hills - 'Mech Tech"</ref> * '''New Avalon Technologies''' - Located between Regency Street and New Avalon Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a company that sells from first-class sidearms to almost any BattleMech weapon system. Known to sell with discount to warriors who bear F-C colors, they sell to everyone. The [[Solaris]] office is led by Vice President [[David Tebbits]], a ruthless man known to resort to freelance investigators to look into the affairs of his business rivals.<ref name="SBS-PGp31b"/> * '''New John Carter Tower''' - An office building where [[Freak Show Entertainment]] had their central headquarters.<ref name="LR"/> * '''Night Watch''' - A bar.<ref name=FC>''First Chair''</ref> *{{Anchor|Seventh Heaven}}'''Seventh Heaven''' - Located between Minos Drive and Hanse Davion Drive,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> the Seventh Heaven is primarily known for the number of techs that hang out there. Strangers are accepted, but it might get quite complex if not nightly impossible to get information from them.<ref name="MainEventp29">''Main Event'', ch. 6, p. 29</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-128/> Legendary technician [[Gerry Rambaldi]] has said he considers this bar his second home.<ref name="SBS-PGp29b"/> * '''Starlight House''' - Located between Minos Drive and April Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> is the home of [[Tran Ky Bo]], [[Starlight Stables]] stablemaster. The house is in fine condition and its groves of cherry trees herald the brief Solaran spring with their blossoms.<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31"/> * '''The New Avalon''' - Located between Arbogast Street and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a very luxurious, snobbish and pricey restaurant owned by [[Rex Simmons]]. Only MechWarriors can expect a fast service.<ref name="SBS-PGp29-30">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', pp. 29–30: "Black Hills - Entertainment"</ref> * The [[Seven Deadly Sins Stables]] stablehouse - This is the place where the stable can hold their 'Mechs, private rooms and the spares warehouse.<ref name=Unboundp60>''Unbound'', p. 60: "Seven Deadly Sins Stables"</ref> * '''Sortek Building''' - Located between Beane Drive and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it houses the administrative offices for the Black Hills.<ref name="SBS-PGp28"/> * '''[[The Pelican]]''' - Located between Frances Avenue and Era Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is one of the more notable MechWarrior bars in Black Hills.<ref name="MainEventp30">''Main Event'', ch. 6, p. 30</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-128/> * '''The Running Fox Country Club''' - Located between St. Helens Avenue and Raglan Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a very exclusive country club named in honor of [[Hanse Davion]] features a luxuriously appointed clubhouse, and an 18-hole golf course, and a fully equipped bar and trivid theater for viewing the games.<ref name="SBS-PGp29b"/> * '''The Silver Swan''' - Located between Bane Drive and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is probably the most exclusive dining establishment in Solaris City. Interiors has been defined as nothing short of decadent, but food is excellent though expensive. This restaurant is a very popular spot for nobles. Maître d' [[Alphonse Wrigley]] is known for his unerring sense for detecting interlopers and is quick to have any imposters ejected.<ref name="SBS-PGp29b"/> * '''The Sun and Sword Hotel''' - Located between Wheaton Street and Halloran Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the Davionist hotel. 30 stories of luxury rooms with suites named for famous members of House Davion. [[Niles Chelsey]] is the Hotel manager, known for his pro-Davion views (Davion, not Federated Commonwealth).<ref name="SBS-PGp29c">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 29: "Black Hills - Hotels"</ref> The 20th of April 3056 a fiery explosion took the top floor killing several people, among them [[Galen Cox]].<ref name=AoR>''Assumption of Risk''</ref> * '''Viewpoint''' - Located between Laurel Avenue and Robinson Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a vantage point that looks over the whole Solaris City and the rolling woodlands beyond.<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31"/> * '''Winged Victory''' - Located between Halstead Street and Amel Way,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a [[Fourth Succession War]] memorial that portraits an angel armed with a sword. It lists Federated Suns victories etched around the statue's cylindrical base.<ref name="SBS-PGp30-31"/> <br> <br> ==Montenegro== <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image: Montenegro.JPG|right|260px]] [[Image:Montenegro_Sector.PNG|right|260px]] :'''Location:''' Solaris City, northeast side :'''Dominant Affiliation:''' [[Free Worlds League]] :'''Population:''' 610,000 as per 3068<ref name=SWMp14>''The Solaris Watchman'', p. 14: "Montenegro"</ref> :'''Dominant Language:''' English :'''Per Capita Income:''' 19,500 C-bills as per 3068<ref name=SWMp14/> :'''Below Poverty Level:''' 15.1% as per 3068<ref name=SWMp14/> :'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Mafia, Yakuza, Triads, Tongs The House Marik sector was originally an abandoned industrial zone when it was given over to them during the Reconstruction period, and while it has rebounded since then, echoes of that past remain with large areas of ruined factories and slums. This past was incorporated into the sector's Open Class arena, '''The Factory''', built out of a decrepit manufacturing complex and numbering among the most popular of the open arenas. The zone's nightlife is another attraction, with establishments like Hangar 66 and The Riever drawing tourists and locals alike. The imposing Marik Tower implies a strong, central authority in the zone but, mirroring the League's politics, reticent provinces maintain their own offices separate and in defiance of this ordinance. Crime is rampant thanks to the most inefficient of Solaris City's independent police forces.<ref>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', pp. 73–74</ref> It is considered the ugliest district in the city.<ref name=S7-PB-40a>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', p. 40: "Montenegro"</ref> There are four well-known neighborhoods within Montenegro. The Allman District, located in southeast section of Montenegro,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> is the common people's residential area with few parks or amenities. Residents tend to unite themselves by nationality (Andurien, Orientan, Regulan, Silver Hawk and so on). Grey Industries, located in east section of Montenegro,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> was originally the offices of a now defunct Solaris corporation. Only squatters and poor tenants live here... well, and also the [[Solarian Games Denizens#Gangsters|Red Cobras]] triad whose headquarters is located here. The Riverfront, located in south river section of Montenegro,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> is full of burned-out warehouses and the twisted remains of dock and loaders where crime also runs rampant. Finally the Wasteland, located in northeast section of Montenegro,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> located beyond '''The Factory''' arena is a deadly jungle of abandoned manufacturing plants, warehouses, foundries and offices where only the dirty poor or homeless live. This is a good place to hide, though residents guard their space jealously and killing others for their valuables is not unheard of.<ref name=S7-PB-40_41>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', pp. 40–41: "Montenegro - Neighborhoods"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> ===Known Locations=== * '''Andurien Block''' - Located between Kemper Street and Marik Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this squat and ugly building is the site of Andurien autonomy and defiance of central authority.<ref name=S7-PB-40b>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', p. 40: "Montenegro - Entertainment - Hangar 66 (M-16)"</ref> * '''The Black Lions''' - Located between Adman Street and Ralston Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the home of the [[Black Lions Cooperative]]. This is a rundown tenement with a clubhouse with somewhat spartan accommodations. The tenement includes a large 'Mech bay that can service two 'Mechs in the main floor.<ref name=S7-PB-41b>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', p. 41: "Montenegro - Miscellaneous"</ref> * '''Brit<nowiki>'</nowiki>s''' - Located between Hills Boulevard and Conde Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a working class bar, were patrons are expected to leave their weapons at the door. The local is owned by [[David Weinstein]], a former MechWarrior with several contacts throughout Solaris, both legitimate and underworld.<ref name=S7-PB40C>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', p. 40: "Montenegro - Entertainment"</ref> * '''Bromley Estate''' - Located between Caracas Avenue and Williams Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> is a green island amid the industrial zone, this is the house of [[Thaddeus Bromley]], master of [[Bromley Stables]]. The condo is walled and heavily patrolled.<ref name=S7-PB40_41>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', pp. 40–41: "Montenegro - Points of Interest"</ref> *{{Anchor|The Cockpit}}'''The Cockpit''' - A quiet place where customers could get a drink and relax after a long day. It was dark, but dark-warm, not dark-seedy. A fire danced merrily in one corner of the bar, lending the place the smell of cedar smoke. People sat at intimate tables and booths.<ref name="LR"/> *{{Anchor|Danner's Spare Parts}}'''Danner's Spare Parts''' - Located between Stelm Street and Via Dolorosa,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is one of the best houses to find salvaged of refurbished 'Mech parts, and known to deal with small stables and independents such as the [[Black Lions Cooperative]] to which is next to. The shop is owned by [[Theodore Danner]] an excellent scavenger.<ref name=S7-PB-41a>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', p. 41: "Montenegro - 'Mech Tech"</ref> * '''DeVall's Scrapyard''' - Located between Hostam Street and Skully Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the final destination of many destroyed BattleMechs. Broken MechWarriors pay to search something useful there. Owned by '''DeVall''', the place is also an excellent place for clandestine meetings (after paying to DeVall).<ref name=S7-PB-41a/> * '''Earthwerks-FWL''' - Located between Sadd Al Barani Street and Caracas Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a research center belonging to [[Earthwerks Incorporated]]. Operatives from the company review the tactics, tapes and IR analysis of each Solaris fight and use it to improve maintenance techniques.<ref name=S7-PB-41a/> * The Open Class arena [[The Factory]], located between Drum Street and Montenegro Street.<ref name=MWGS128-133/><ref name=S7-PB-40_41/> * '''The Five Princess''' - Located between Lafayette Street and Bohemia Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> though it is the best hotel in Montenegro the exterior building is ugly as it started his life as an industrial office building. On the inside it is an attractive combination of brick, metal and wood, full of lush greenery, pools and waterfalls.<ref name=S7-PB40B>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', p. 40: "Montenegro - Tourist Services"</ref> *{{Anchor|Free Worlds News Service}}'''Free Worlds News Service''' - Located between Sadd Al Barani Street and Roma Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the center place for various print publications and broadcasts news with Marik slant. There are two quite renowned reporters, [[Cal Helmway]] and [[Sharona Avner]], both very critical of F-C corruption while not by any change with the one done by House Marik and House Liao.<ref name=S7-PB40A>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', p. 40: "Montenegro - Information"</ref> * '''Free Worlds Theater''' - Located between Arthur Street and Mehmet Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> here every night different entertainments are offered, most often live theater, trivid movies, 'Mech fights and concerts.<ref name=S7-PB-40_41/> * '''Greenway Park''' - Located between Sadd Al Barani Street and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a long and continuous park that goes from the '''Marik Tower''' to the reaches of the river. The park gets degraded the nearer of the river you get.<ref name=S7-PB-40_41/> * '''Hangar 66''' - Located between Reisman Street and Pender Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> though a bit rougher around edges, Hangar 66 is second only to Thor's Shieldhall as a well-known haunt of accomplished MechWarriors. Hangar 66 attracts a similar crowd to its Silesian counterpart and as well as MechWarriors who feel like cutting loose and frightened their actions would be frowned upon in the sacred halls of Valhalla.<ref name="SolarisGamemastersBookp12">''Solaris VII: The Game World – Gamemaster's Book'', p. 12: "Arena Classes"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-73-M>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', pp. 73–74: "A Brief History of Solaris VII - A Tour of Solaris City - Montenegro -The Drive-By"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-128/> The local is owned by [[Val Halloran]], who is known to allow MechWarriors considerable latitude as they are an attraction to most of the visitors.<ref name=S7-PB-40>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', p. 40: "Montenegro - Entertainment - Hangar 66 (M-16)"</ref> * '''Home Guards Club''' - Located between Marik Street and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is an elite social club formed by formed or retired member of House Marik's [[Home Guard (Free Worlds League)|Home Guards]] so members can relax there. Full membership is not easy to get.<ref name=S7-PB-40C>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', p. 40: "Montenegro - Entertainment"</ref> * '''Horziba Manor''' - Located between Peace Street and Yamamoto Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a high-rise housing on Montenegro. Apartments are small.<ref name=S7-PB-41b/> * '''Kinebatu Travel''' - Located between Drum Street and Ralston Street, this is a front to hire mercenary [[JumpShip]]s and [[DropShip]]s.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> * '''Marik Tower''' - Located between Kemper Sadd Al Barani Street and Lafayette Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a brand-new building of glass and steel with the Marik eagle proudly displayed over its main entrance. The Montenegro civic authorities have their offices here. House Marik authorities want all the Marik member states to maintain their diplomatic and government offices here. On [[3051]] Andurien is still resisting.<ref name=S7-PB-40b/> * '''Melway Fountain''' - Located between Sadd Al Barani Street and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a central water column surrounded by several small water jets, which creates a random dance of waters that change every moment of the day. By night this effect is enhanced by colored lights.<ref name=S7-PB-40_41/> * '''Montenegro Water Works''' - Located between McKean Street and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the station from which Montenegro and much of Southern Solaris City gets its water.<ref name=S7-PB-40b/> * '''Ratchell Refinery''' - A vent gas Refinery near International Street.<ref>''Blood Price''</ref> * '''The Riever''' - Located between Sejour Street and Alpin Francais Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a bar where pilots come to relax. The bar is decorated by a full-size mock-up of a hundred-ton Marik [[Riever]] fighter hanging from the ceiling. Non-pilots can expect ribbing. The local is owned by [[Rico San Lucas]], known for turning a blind eye when his pilot patrons do something illegal.<ref name=S7-PB-40C/> * '''Sandway Building''' - Located between Bolivar Street and Ha Yehudim Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a block that houses several corporations on Solaris. During the [[Star League]] era it was home of [[Sandway Corporation]], but today it is a low-income housing site. Word on the street say that down-on-their-luck MechWarriors have formed a mutual-protection ring to protect them from marauders.<ref name=S7-PB-41b/> * '''Shadows Downs''' - Located between Roma Street and Alpin Francais Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is home of [[Andrew Fitzhugh]], owner of [[Fitzhugh Stables]] and Andurien supporter. Since his purchase he has converted it from a rundown estate to one of the most beautiful in Montenegro.<ref name=S7-PB-40_41/> * '''Solaris Highway''' - This is a Highway cutting through Montenegro on the north side of the Solaris River and passing through the middle of Cathay on the south.<ref name=MWGS70/> * '''Stewart Inn''' - Located between Arthur Street and Marik Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is an inn full of authentic décor and pleasant staff owned by [[Margaret Stewart (31st c.)|Margaret Stewart]]. There is a Solaran joke saying that only Scottish cuisine is served, the menu is excellent.<ref name=S7-PB-40C/> * '''Sutter Warehouse''' - Located between Renne Street and Skagway Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this seems an abandoned warehouse from the outside, but in reality this is one of the [[Mafia]]'s '''Bertoli Family''' hideout. This is one of the major transshipment points of the family, always defended by thugs ready to eliminate unwanted visitors.<ref name=S7-PB-41b/> * The [[Toro Stables]] facility is located northwest of Montenegro, where the Stable uses a warehouse to keep the 'Mechs operational an empty field for training and were housing is provided by half a dozen trailers on site.<ref name="TOROSTABLESp3a">''Toro Stables'', p. 3: "Facilities"</ref> * '''Von Tripp, INC.''' - Located between Unim Street and Solaris Highway 1,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the best broker agency for Marik MechWarriors owned by [[Anton Von Tripp]].<ref name=S7-PB-41b/> <br> <br> ==Kobe== <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image: Kobe.JPG|right|260px]] [[Image:Kobe_Sector.PNG|right|260px]] :'''Location:''' Solaris City, northwest side :'''Dominant Affiliation:''' [[Draconis Combine]] :'''Population:''' 550,000 as per 3068<ref name=SWKp14>''The Solaris Watchman'', p. 14: "Kobe"</ref> :'''Dominant Language:''' Japanese :'''Per Capita Income:''' 19,000 C-bills<ref name=SWKp14/> :'''Below Poverty Level:''' 11.3%<ref name=SWKp14/> :'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Yakuza, Triads The House Kurita sector existed in something of a limbo for most of its history, after [[Urizen Kurita (27th c.)|Urizen Kurita]] turned his back on Solaris City in response to [[Gunslinger Program|SLDF Gunslingers]] turning the tide against Kuritan ''ronin'' in the [[First Hidden War]]. On [[3051]] this district is considered the most beautiful and safest of the Solaris City ones.<ref name="SBS-PGp36">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 36: "Kobe"</ref> There are two well-known neighborhoods in the district. One is the ''Kobe Slums'', located north of Kobe,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> in which hosts those citizens who live in poverty and where slum gangs, [[yakuza]] and [[Triads and Tongs|triads and tongs]] run rampant, though when any problem arises security forces are almost always there in force. The other is the White Lotus District, located north of Kobe,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> where homes are little short of palaces and it is the safest in the city and where streets are kept spotless and with security patrols on near-constant detail.<ref name="SBS-PGp36b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 36: "Neighborhoods"</ref> Kobe was finally recognized by [[Theodore Kurita (31st c.)|Theodore Kurita]] in [[3056]], revitalizing the sector's economy as it could once again (legally) broadcast matches in the Combine. The sector's slums are tastefully hidden behind tall trees and hills, allowing tourists to visit the open-air Kobe Theater, stay at the Hotel Dragon or relax in the War Memorial Park without being offended by such sights. In competition with Montenegro's for second most popular open arena is '''Ishiyama''', a manmade mountain which looms over Solaris River.<ref>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', p. 73</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> ===Known Locations=== * '''The Bamboo Palace''' - Located between Pullman Street and Minoru Kurita Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a luxury hotel popular with Kurita tourists. It is also the place where stablemasters bring in promising MechWarriors from off-world.<ref name="SBS-PGp37a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 36: "Kobe - Hotels"</ref> * '''Cramer Associates''' - Located between Heller Street and Styx Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a 'Mech broker house owned by [[Theo Cramer]]. On the surface this seems to be an honest 'Mech broker firm that charges reasonable fees. What people does not known is that Cramer is also a member of the '''Bertoli''' family.<ref name="SBS-PGp38b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 38: "Kobe - Miscellaneous"</ref> * '''DeLon Estate''' - Located between Millers Street and Galedon Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the home of [[Thomas DeLon]], head of [[DeLon Stables]] that resembles more a military base than an estate.<ref name="SBS-PGp37_38">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', pp. 37–38: "Kobe - Points of Interest"</ref> * '''Draconis Combine Dormitory''' - Located between Kessel Street and Yamato Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> these spartan accommodations that include though a full-service gym and a cafeteria where those who fight for the Combine on Solaris may life for a minimal cost, regardless of stable affiliation.<ref name="SBS-PGp37a"/> * '''Draconis Combine Equipment Liaison''' - Located between Kessel Street and Takashi Kurita Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the place where House Kurita showcases Combine military prowess. Here used, obsolete or surplus BattleMechs are sold to pro-Kurita stables.<ref name="SBS-PGp38a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 38: "Kobe - 'Mech Tech"</ref> * '''The Dragon Arch''' - Located between Theodore Street and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> these are twin pillars entwined with elegant dragons and decorated in brilliant red and yellow, it is considered the gateway to Kobe. Security is always patrolling it to ensure no vandals or loiterers attack it.<ref name="SBS-PGp37_38"/> The Dragon Arch was destroyed by [[Garrett (Blackstar Stables)|Garrett]] and his [[Clan Smoke Jaguar]] colleagues during the [[Solaris Riots]] on [[3062]].<ref name="IoV-C17">''Illusions of Victory'', ch. 17</ref> * '''Hotel Dragon''' - Located between Kessel Street and Theodore Kurita Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is the finest hotel in Kobe. It only works for Kuritan and Marik citizens (payment in [[Ryu (currency)|K-Bills]] only). Food rivals that of the finest restaurants in Solaris.<ref name="SBS-PGp37a"/> * '''Government House''' - Located between Dahar Street and Theodore Kurita Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the official residence of the Kobe governor as well as the center of the civil administration for the sector. The governor in 3051 is ''Daimyo'' [[Yao Kinebate]].<ref name="SBS-PGp36a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 36: "Kobe - City Administration"</ref> The building is destroyed during the Jihad,<ref>''Blood Price''</ref> though most probably reconstructed after its end.{{cn}} * '''Indrahar Memorial Hospital''' - Located between Unity Street and Luthien Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a first-class hospital that cares primarily for rich patients as well as Kurita MechWarriors whose expenses are paid by the Combine government.<ref name="SBS-PGp38b"/> * The Open Class arena [[Ishiyama]],<ref name="SBS-PGp37b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 36: "Kobe - Entertainment"</ref> located between Galedon Avenue and Minoru Kurita Street.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> * '''Kobayashi Towers''' - This is the tallest high-rise in Kobe. [[Yakuza]] [[Boss Ito]] of the ''Hamagachi'' clan has his official residence here.<ref name=AGWIABS7>''A Guy Walks Into a Bar on Solaris VII...''</ref> * '''Kobe Security''' - Located between Legion of Vega Street and Hehiro Kurita Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is home of the district security, and able to house 500 security troops with armored personnel carriers and BattleMechs. The district security officer is Commander [[Miramatu Tokodana]].<ref name="SBS-PGp36a"/> * '''Kobe Temple''' - Located between Robert Kurita Street and Minoru Kurita Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is one of the most impressive buildings of [[Solaris]]. This is a temple known by its twelve-meter-tall gilded Buddha.<ref name="SBS-PGp37_38"/> * '''Kobe Theater''' - Located between Takiro Kurita Street and Minoru Kurita Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is an open-air auditorium, site of ''kabuki'', ''noh'' and other types of drama during spring and summer.<ref name="SBS-PGp37b"/> * '''The Marauder''' - Located between Unity Street and Yamato Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a watering hole for the lower rungs of Kobe's society, where it is very easy to find thugs, gangster, yakuza and triad members. Gossip says this is also the place where anybody can hire individuals of questionable character to carry out criminal activities. Several bouncers heavily armed ensure nobody can enter the establishment armed, and also cater for security inside.<ref name="SBS-PGp37b"/> * {{Anchor|TheParadise}}'''The Paradise''' - Located between Dragon's Dove Avenue and Theodore Kurita Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is an elegant restaurant near '''Hotel Dragon''' that holds private rooms for special meetings. Owned by [[Quan Chih]] takes great pains to maintain the best staff available.<ref name="SBS-PGp37b"/> The place is full of rich hardwoods and authentic Japanese antiques imported from Terra itself.<ref name="IoVp26">''Illusions of Victory'', ch. 5, p. 26</ref> * '''Phoenix House''' - Located between Jerome Blake Street and Ragoshima Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this attractive mansion is the headquarters for major yakuza activity in Kobe.<ref name="SBS-PGp37_38"/> * '''Shinto Temple''' - Located between Dahart Street and Mallory Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a temple that boast shrines, gardens and places for meditations is one of the oldest buildings on Solaris City, being there since the founding of the city.<ref name="SBS-PGp37_38"/> * '''Silver Dragon Grove''' - Located between Unim Street and Galedon Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the house of [[Anna Nevil]], matriarch of the [[Silver Dragon Stables]]. She did bought it in [[3030]], from a bankrupt nobleman and enhanced it, adding manicured grounds and making the mansion spawn, and a closed circuit trivid.<ref name="SBS-PGp37_38"/> * '''The Snowbird''' - Located between Dragon's Dove Avenue and Mallory Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a popular hangout for MechWarriors and for stablemasters looking for new talent. Drinking is the top seller, but food is also served. 'Mech matches can be seen here, but as a house rule, loud or boisterous behavior is frowned upon. [[Tanya Childress]] manages the place, which is owned by several Kuritan businessmen.<ref name="SBS-PGp37b"/> * '''The Swallow''' - Located between Jerome Blake Street and Theodore Kurita Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a restaurant famous for its seafood and Southeast Asian beef noodle soup. The place is actually a front for the '''Heavenly Warrior''' triad.<ref name="SBS-PGp37b"/> * '''Takeo Shinden Estate''' - Located between Cunningham Street and Shibokawa Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> here the retired [[DCMS]] MechWarrior of some renown [[Takeo Shinden]] lives. This is a walled and heavily patrolled estate said to contain several valuable art works as well as classified information on the DCMS.<ref name="SBS-PGp37_38"/> <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:Tekshop.PNG|right|260px]] *{{Anchor|Tekshop}}'''Tekshop''' - Located between Cadiz Street and Ozawa Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a small shop operated by technician [[Amo Lee]] crammed with bits of electronic gear, scraps of metal, discarded computer parts and more. This is nevertheless one of the best places to pick a tech in Kobe, and [[Silver Dragon Stables]] has it as its particular favorite place.<ref name="SBS-PGp38a"/> <div style="clear:both"></div> * '''Theodore Kurita Building''' - Located between Pillar of Gold Street and Luthien Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this high impressive building is home of most of the offices of 'Mech brokerage houses and major Kurita corporations on Solaris.<ref name="SBS-PGp38b"/> * '''War Memorial Park''' - This park is a tribute to fallen Combine soldiers. It consists of a simple slab of white marble listing dozens of major battles and casualty figures from each. The monument is surrounded by a park containing tea gardens and Buddhist shrines.<ref name="SBS-PGp37_38"/> * '''Waterfront''' - Located between Minbusho Street and Hehiro Kurita Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> the place is full of shrines, parts and statuary line, it is patrolled by Kurita security forces. That peace meetings between crime leaders happen here is not unheard of.<ref name="SBS-PGp37_38"/> <br> <br> ==Cathay== <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image: Cathay.JPG|right|260px]] [[Image:Cathay_Sector.PNG|right|260px]] :'''Location:''' Solaris City, central southwest side :'''Dominant Affiliation:''' [[Capellan Confederation]] :'''Population:''' 530,000 as per 3068<ref name=SWCp13>''The Solaris Watchman'', p. 13: "Cathay"</ref> :'''Dominant Language:''' Mandarin Chinese :'''Per Capita Income:''' 18,800 C-bills as per 3068<ref name=SWCp13/> :'''Below Poverty Level:''' 8.4% as per 3068<ref name=SWCp13/> :'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Triads, Tongs A clear example of how the reality of Solaris often differs from that of the greater Inner Sphere, the House Liao sector has a reputation for the highest standards of living in Solaris City. Cathay also has the greatest divide between the haves and have-nots, plagued by widespread criminal activity and serving as home for many of the [[Triads and Tongs]]. Following the Fourth Succession War the loyalties of Cathay fractured as its inhabitants and neighborhoods looked towards three different leaders for guidance and identity - [[Tormano Liao]], [[Candace Liao]] and [[Romano Liao]] - with the [[Xin Sheng]] revival and the [[Capellan Civil War]] only increasing tensions between the Capellan suburbs and Stables.<ref name="SBS-PGp32">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 32: "Cathay"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-72b>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', pp. 72–73: "A Brief History of Solaris VII - A Tour of Solaris City - Cathay -The Drive-By"</ref> Cathay is divided into five suburbs. The Chancellor's Quarter is located to the southwest and is the home of Cathay's elite, boasting many of the most beautiful and expensive residences in Solaris City, a standing it maintained thanks to lavish support for [[Free Capella]], though the loss of Federated Suns funding following the Clan Invasion resulted in a decline. Middle Town to the east holds most of Cathay's highlands and is the home of the sector's upper and middle class, this sector received the mocking nickname of the Middle Kingdom for its loyalty toward the [[St. Ives Compact]]. The remaining residential sectors to the northeast and wet all remained loyal to [[Sian]]. River Town is the first neighborhood considered part of the slums of the sector. Densely populated, most of the triads and gangs recruit here. Tenement Area is a place where crushing poverty is the rule, home of cheap imported foreign labor and full of drug dealers, slum gangs, extortionist, enforcers and protection racketeers.{{Anchor|The Maze}}''The Maze'' is the center of Cathay's crime and poverty. [[Mafia]], [[yakuza]], triads and tongs and numerous other smaller groups base their operations in the labyrinth of streets, their control of the Maze so total that the authorities are practically forbidden to enter. A notable number of supporters of [[Kali Liao]] also call the Maze home.<ref name="SBS-PGp33a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 33: "Neighborhoods"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-72b/><ref name=MWGS128-133/> <div style="clear:both"></div> There is a street named '''Maximillian Liao Avenue''', named after [[Maximilian Liao]].<ref name="LR"/> ===Known Locations=== * '''Amida Buddha Hospital''' - Located between Liao Street and Hsien Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a hospital staffed by Buddhist volunteers. This hospital caters for those unable to pay for their medical treatment.<ref name="SBS-PGp35c">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 35: "Cathay - Miscellaneous"</ref> *{{Anchor|The Bitter Pool}}'''The Bitter Pool''' - Located between West Way and Kung Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a dingy bar that offers numerous cheap intoxicants and brief companionship. [[Shad Greenville]], ruthless triad leader and his bodyguards make huge profit with this local.<ref name="SBS-PGp33_35">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', pp. 33–35: "Cathay - Entertainment"</ref> * '''The Brass Lily''' - Located between Tsinghai Avenue and Kung Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is located in the Maze. Advertised as a place where residents can seek refuge from violence and ugliness, it actually hides the center of the [[Solarian Games Denizens#Gangsters|Hundred Swordsmen]]. The place is a virtual fortress, full of cameras and alarms. There is also an underground bunker to host the Triads operations.<ref name="SBS-PGp33_35"/> * '''Capellan High Court''' - Located between Torquil Street and Lio Bang Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the place where Capellans prefer to try their own criminals, and here is where the low level criminals end, as gang leaders and high-level criminals prefer to simply grease palms to avoid trial. Sentences are harsh, and security is hard, with an underground cell complex considered escape-proof.<ref name="SBS-PGp32b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 32: "Cathay - City Administration"</ref> * '''Capellan War Memorial''' - Located between Chu Street and Sian Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it was constructed after the Fourth Succession War this monument depicts a bloody but unbowed Liao MechWarrior pointing an accusing finger west towards the Black Hills. The names of dozens of Capellan warriors who died heroically are inscribed on the statue's base. Even on 3051 loyal Capellans still leave flowers in honor of the fallen heroes.<ref name="SBS-PGp35a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 35: "Cathay - Points of Interest"</ref> * '''Cathay Arms''' - Located between Capella Street and Al Nair Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is located in Middle Town at Capella and Al Nair Streets, the Cathay Arms is the most famous hotel in Cathay. Its rooms are decorated with an Imperial Chinese motif and many visiting Capellans consider it treason to stay anywhere else.<ref name="SBS-PGp33b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 33: "Cathay - Hotels"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-72b/><ref name=MWGtS7-128/> * '''Cathay BattleMech Bay''' - Located between Nova Street and Weymouth Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a well-guarded and vast structure that can house up to 30 BattleMechs at one time is maintained by the Liao government that allows major Liao stables to use it for free.<ref name="SBS-PGp35b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 35: "Cathay - 'Mech Tech"</ref> * '''Cathay Security Headquarters''' - Located between Chuhai Avenue and Canis Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a grim and brooding building. The control center of Cathay Security can hold up to a thousand operatives with their equipment (from small arms to BattleMechs).<ref name="SBS-PGp32b"/> * '''[[The Cobalt Coil]]''' - Located between Angel Avenue and Sorrenson Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a tavern located on the border between the poor and middle-class section of Cathay, it is a place where 'Mech jocks, pilots and techs gather to exchange information and tall tales. It was made famous by a set of semifactual stories published under the title ''Tales of the Cobalt''.<ref name="SBS-PGp33_35"/> * '''The Crane''' - Located between Confederation Avenue and Al Nair Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a very expensive restaurant that only accepts [[L-Bill]]s. One of the favorite haunts of triad leaders, Capellan nobles and hot young MechWarriors where non-Capellans can expect to be kept waiting for quite a while.<ref name="SBS-PGp33_35"/> * '''The Docks''' - Located between Rivoli Drive and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> where some of the food, luxury items and other goods are offloaded.<ref name="SBS-PGp35c"/> * '''Dragon House''' - Located between Drake Street and Phung Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a place that people might think is like any typical gambling house in Cathay, but it is not exactly the case. Like in other ones, cheap liquor and opium are available for the patrons while they play traditional games of chance or bet in BattleMech contests via an expensive tri-vid system illegally tapped into SBC transmissions. What makes it special it is that it is not aligned with any [[Triads and Tongs|triads]] or [[yakuza]], which are kept at by thanks to the hired muscle that the brothers [[Vijay Ramajiva|Vijay]] and [[Kalish Ramajiva]] pay with the big profits the house gives.<ref name="SBS-PGp33_35"/> * '''The Glass Tower''' - Located between Confederation Avenue and Chandler Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a very elegant condominium residence located in the '''Chancellor's Quarter''' known to house several triads leaders. Security is so tight that those leaders know that they are safe from each other.<ref name="SBS-PGp35a"/> * '''Jade Falcon Embassy''' - Located between Capella Street and Al Nair Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the first official Clan embassy was established in [[3058]] in a deal brokered by [[Kai Allard-Liao]].<ref name=MWGtS7-72b/><ref name=MWGtS7-128/> * The Open Class arena [[The Jungle]],<ref name="SBS-PGp33_35"/> located between Canton Street and Beijing Way.<ref name=MWGS128-133/> *{{Anchor|The Kirin}}'''The Kirin''' - Located between Honer Street and Ralston Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is an opium den for the most addicted. The local is owned by the Red Cobra triad and under [[Li Ban]]'s management. It was recently attacked by the Hundred Swordsmen and several Red Cobra died that day.<ref name="SBS-PGp33_35"/> *{{Anchor|Macami's Place}}'''Macami's Place''' - Located between Tsinghai Avenue and Alexander Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> the place looks like a ragtag secondhand shop, but the reality is very different. The place is run by [[Guire MacAmis]], and it is one of the best pirate weapon and contraband shops in Solaris City.<ref name="SBS-PGp35b"/> * '''The Perfumed Garden''' - Located between Portobello Street and Al Nair Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is an expensive brothel used by several prominent Liao officials. Only Capellan citizens and their guests are admitted. Only unusual requests will need additional money that the ones paid as gate fee. There is a place where patrons can eat, drink and converse. The rooms are decorated with exquisite taste. Madame [[Mai Shi]], a known court beauty on [[Sian]] and rumored to be one of [[Maximilian Liao]]'s favorite concubines runs the establishment with an iron hand. She is 60 years old on 3051 and still shows considerable beauty and charm.<ref name="SBS-PGp33_35"/> * '''Raven's Roost''' - Located between Wazan Street and Canis Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this rundown bar and rooming house is the headquarters for the [[Solarian Games Denizens#Gangsters|Bertoli family]] on Cathay. The second floor has been fortified because of this, and to increase security, [[Ivan Toviesh]], the manager of the office enforces a no-weapons policy in the establishment.<ref name="SBS-PGp33b"/> * '''Security Station''' - Located between Maxmillian [''sic''] Avenue and Beijing Way,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a heavily fortified post in the slums of Cathay, with bunkers beneath the security stables which can hold BattleMechs, even repair them.<ref name="SBS-PGp32b"/> * '''The Sesame Inn''' - Located in Middle Town at Torquil Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this St. Ives Compact financed restaurant is considered by many the best in Cathay.<ref name=MWGtS7-72b/><ref name=MWGtS7-128/> The place was owned and run by [[George Yang]], an expatriate from [[Sian]].<ref name=AoR/> * '''Solaris Highway''' - This is a Highway cutting through Montenegro on the north side of the Solaris River and passing through the middle of Cathay on the south.<ref name=MWGS70/> * '''The Strand''' - Located between Capella Street and Chandler Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is considered the most beautiful and exclusive residence in Cathay, located in the '''Chancellor's Quarter''' where the wealthiest in Cathay live. Over 70 stories, it is a graceful white buttresses surrounded by a lush garden. Protected by a complex network of spy cameras, hidden guard posts and alarms, Cathay's criminal element considers a badge of honor the theft of an item from the building.<ref name="SBS-PGp35a"/> The last floor is reserved for the [[Free Capella]] leadership, though for example [[Treyhang Liao]] has yet to visit Solaris VII as of [[3065]].<ref name=MWGS72b>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', p. 72: "Cathay"</ref> * '''Tandrek Palace''' - Located between Confederation Avenue and Hunan Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the residence of [[Roger Tandrek]], stablemaster of [[Tandrek Stables]]. A condo considered of tasteless opulence because of his humble origins. Known for his big and extravagant tastes.<ref name="SBS-PGp35a"/> * '''Zelazni Estate''' - Located between Adlis Street and Sian Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the residence of [[Victor Zelazni]] from [[Zelazni Stables]].<ref name="SBS-PGp35a"/> * '''Warrior's Hall''' - Located between Maximillian Avenue and Phung Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this place is a combination of bar, restaurant, rooming house and brothel. Admittance is restricted to individuals known to management and their guests. Prices are reasonable, thanks to donations from former clients who hit it big. Great Liao MechWarriors decorate the walls, though there is a blank space were the portrait of [[Justin Xiang]] was.<ref name="SBS-PGp33_35"/> * '''Warrior's Way Brokerage''' - Located between Starlight Avenue and Hsien Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a small brokerage house that matches out-of-work dispossessed warriors with disreputable or broke stablemasters run by [[Andrea Rigsby]].<ref name="SBS-PGp35c"/> <br> <br> ==Silesia== <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image: Silesia.JPG|right|260px]] [[Image:Silesia_Sector.PNG|right|260px]] :'''Location:''' Solaris City, southeast/far east side :'''Dominant Affiliation:''' [[Lyran Commonwealth]] :'''Population:''' 630,000 as per 3068<ref name=SWSp14>''The Solaris Watchman'', p. 14: "Silesia"</ref> :'''Dominant Language:''' German :'''Per Capita Income:''' 21,800 C-bills as per 3068<ref name=SWSp14/> :'''Below Poverty Level:''' 9.7% as per 3068<ref name=SWSp14/> :'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Mafia, Tongs The House Steiner sector is known for its fashionable Upper East Side and the luxurious condos of the Riverfront District. That the Riverfront has minimal police protection and abuts the poor districts of Cathy, yet boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Solaris City, has resulted in some theories that the local criminal organizations recognize it as "neutral territory". '''Steiner Stadium''' is one of the few arenas which allows its audience to view 'Mech matches live rather than on closed-circuit tri-vids, a result of the arena's unique [[lostech]] weapons barrier. The district houses two neighborhoods with special reputations. The Blackthorne District, located southwest section of Silesia,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> is full of cheap bars, gang hangouts, gambling houses and opium dens. The situation worsens near the river, even with all the effort the Lyran authorities do to keep the residential area clean and trouble-free. The other known district is The Riverside, located northwest river section of Silesia,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> situated within sight of the '''Cathay''' River Town and it is the location of numerous high-class hotels and condominiums.<ref name="SBS-PGp42b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 42: "Silesia - Neighborhoods"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> Silesia was the most affected of the Solaris Districts during the 3062 Solaris Riots, with burning of building and looting the norm during that short period. ===Known Locations=== *{{Anchor|The Armored Fist Hotel}}'''The Armored Fist Hotel''' - Located between Demien Street and Dusseldorf Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a popular hotel for Lyran tourist. It host a restaurant in the lobby, '''Melissa<nowiki>'</nowiki>s'''.<ref name="SBS-PGp43a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 43: "Silesia - Hotels"</ref> Room 807 was the place from where the [[Dancing Joker]] killed [[Ryan Steiner]] with a half-kilometer shot.<ref name=AoR-C30>''Assumption of Risk'', ch. 30</ref> * '''Chahar Lake''' - Located between Lake Drive and Cholm Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a manmade lake with a park excellent for day activities, though at night muggers and drug dealers run rampant even with the patrols by F-C security.<ref name="SBS-PGp43_44">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 42: "Silesia - Points of Interest"</ref> * '''Commonwealth Museum''' - Located between Ashing Street and Markham Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a white Greco-Roman building that host several major art treasures on Lyran history and culture. The place is heavily armed.<ref name="SBS-PGp43_44"/> *{{Anchor|The Copper Coin}}'''The Copper Coin''' - Located between Kübler Street and Alsa Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a combination of bar, restaurant and casino, known for cheap food and watered drinks, owned by [["Shades" McCabe]].<ref name="SBS-PGp43b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 42: "Silesia - Entertainment"</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-4/> * The [[Crimson Voodoo Stables]] manor. It was a [[Succession Wars]] era munitions factory that was converted and remodeled completely. The lower levels are used as 'Mech bays, machine shops and vehicle garages. In the second floor it is located the stable's business offices and conference rooms. The third floor contains a cafeteria, a recreation room and a gym. The last three stories were remodeled as apartments for the Stable's MechWarriors and other personnel.<ref name=MWGtSp124>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', p. 124: "Crimson Voodoo Stables"</ref> *{{Anchor|Falcher's Repair}}'''Falcher's Repair''' - Located in Upper East Side of Silesia, between Steed Avenue and Herd Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this shop is managed by one of Solaris' leading techs. Known to be able to work miracles repairing, modifying and jury-rigging 'Mechs and with a wait list on [[3053]] at six months into the future.<ref name="SBS-PGp44a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 42: "Silesia - 'Mech Tech"</ref> [[Ewen Falcher]] was the man for the work... though at an expensive price.<ref name=MWGS74b>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', p. 74: "A brief story of Solaris VII: Silesia"</ref> *{{Anchor|Fujima's 'Mech Bay}}'''Fujima's 'Mech Bay''' - Located between Roger Street and Ridgeway Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a facility able to hold 24 BattleMechs, where repairs and resupply are available to all, but Lyran MechWarriors receive a discount. The place is owned by [[Carlos Fujima]].<ref name="SBS-PGp44a"/> * '''The Grateful Burger''' - Located between Barer Street and Liszt Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the place for the bohemians, counterculture poets, authors, philosophers, game designers and similar, that serves products from small and obscure breweries along with traditional Terran-American cuisine. Among the clientele there is the very secretive [[Tai Dai Cult|Deadhead cult]]. The restaurant is run by people fitting the type of clientele they have, and whose ''"lider"'' is [["Sunshine" Talbot]].<ref name="SBS-PGp43b"/> * '''Hollis Security''' - Located between Goethe Avenue and Pauling Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is the top security firm in Silesia that hires from lightly armed guards to armored laser-armed security troops. The company was created by [[Vincent Hollis]], and now his nephew [[Vincent Hollis III]] is running the business with great efficiency. Future looks grim though. Future leader will be his son [[Vincent Hollis IV]], known for his issues gambling, who might easily fund his addiction with company money and ruin it.<ref name="SBS-PGp44b">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 42: "Silesia - Miscellaneous"</ref> * The [[Ice Giants Stables]] facilities - This building was an old factory complex on the edge of the sector, near the river that was used as their base. One warehouse works as the 'Mech hangar and repair bay, while what was the main factory now acts as a training area. The living quarters are basic as they use the old workers' quarters. The place is heavily guarded with plenty of armed [[KungsArmé]] veterans patrolling the place. [[Garth Anderson]] (the stablemaster) lives at the complex, leaving only to arrange matches, give interviews, or attend parties.<ref name="ICEGIANTSSTABLESp3a">''Stable Report: Ice Giants'', p. 3: "Facilities"</ref> * '''Isher Weapon Shop''' - Located between Baldur Street and Dusseldorf Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a personal weapon company that limits its sales to those who can prove citizenship in Lyran space.<ref name="SBS-PGp44b"/> * '''Kubler Street Gun Club''' - Located in Kübler Street, this is a gun range protected by organized crime. Legal weapons only are allowed in the main floor's shooting booths and marksman range, but the considerably more expensive and private rooms and ranges of the lower floor reportedly do not have such restrictions.<ref name=MWGtS7-4>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', pp. 4–5: "Job Security"</ref><ref name=TFG>''The Final Game''</ref> Twenty C-bills an hour for the main floor cubicles with paper targets. Fifty C-bills for a private shooting corridor, and two hundred for the marksmanship range (with a long waiting list). Prices and what can happen in the more private rooms and the ranges in the below level is only known to those that pay for them.<ref name=MWGtS7-4/> In the downstairs level, for 500 an hour a client would get a more expensive room and maybe a nice duel. And for 1000 an hour you could get a live target. One of the ''arenas'' is the Hide-and-Seek<ref name=TFG/> * '''Larsson Clothiers''' - Located between Munchenstrasse and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is the place where the elite Silesia society come as the owner, [[Gunnar Larsson]], is considered the finest tailor in Solaris.<ref name="SBS-PGp44b"/> * '''The Lyran Building''' - Located between Dusseldorf Street and Munchenstrasse,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> it is a grim and gray structure showing the armored fist of House Steiner is the place where Lyran bureaucrats administer the sector.<ref name="SBS-PGp42a">''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player's Handbook'', p. 42: "Silesia - City Administration"</ref> * '''Lyran Theater''' - Located between Waller Street and Siebert Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> the theater host the best in contemporary drama and classic opera, though in summer it hosts a Shakespeare festival. No 'Mech games are even displayed on stage.<ref name="SBS-PGp43b"/> * '''Murdock Brokers''' - Located between Goethe Avenue and Dalban Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the leading Steiner 'Mech broker firm owned by [[Gabrielle Murdock]], which has recently been able to match hot MechWarriors to the [[Overlord Stables]].<ref name="SBS-PGp44b"/> * [[Nashan Diversified]] - Located between Roger Street and Dusseldorf Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> these are the local offices of the mammoth Lyran corporation, located at Roger and Dusseldorf Street, and that is used to field-test the firm's new targeting systems and computers. The building is heavily guarded.<ref name=MWGtS7-128/><ref name="SBS-PGp44b"/> * '''The Officer's Club''' - Located between Barer Street and Petersburg Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a place where officers of the Lyran military may stay for a small fee. The accommodations are spare but comfortable, though the dining room and the library are above the line.<ref name="SBS-PGp43a"/> *{{Anchor|Parmus Estate}}'''Parmus Estate''' - Located between Hesperus Avenue and Ridgeway Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the house of [[Jarvo Parmus]], a nobleman and former [[Mercenary]]) known to dabble in 'Mech fighting, with the appearance of a medieval castle. Some out-of-work MechWarriors have been financed by him, though he has never founded his own Stable.<ref name="SBS-PGp43_44"/> * The '''Riverside Hospital''' is the Silesian most known hospital.<ref name=IoV-C7>''Illusions of Victory'', ch. 7</ref> * '''The Scorpion''' - This is an "underground" club mostly hosting MechWarriors and ranking stable members opened around [[3064]].<ref name=MWGtSp114>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', p. 114: "Checking Out the MechWarrior Hangouts"</ref> * '''The Sea King''' - Located between Dusseldorf Street and Thurman Place,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a restaurant serving all kinds of seafood from across the [[Inner Sphere]], though its specialty is the Solaris snapper served Cajun-style. The restaurant is owned by [[Wallace Simms]], known for his little tolerance for failure.<ref name="SBS-PGp43b"/> * '''Shrimpton Gallery''' - Located between Landswehr Street and Pauling Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a private gallery that specializes in 'Mech-oriented art on Davion/Steiner inspiration. The place is well protected with alarms and security guards.<ref name="SBS-PGp43_44"/> * '''Skye Tigers Estate''' - Located between Miller Street and Dusseldorf Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> the former Oonthrax Estate was the home of [[Vito Oonthrax]], owner of [[Oonthrax Stables]], eventually becoming property of [[James Stroud (Skye Tigers Stables)|James Stroud]] of the [[Skye Tigers Stables]]. The estate, though somewhat neglected under Oonthrax, hosts a small 'Mech bay and workshop where techs work for their BattleMechs.<ref name="SBS-PGp43_44"/><ref name=IoV-C12/><ref name=IoV-C22>''Illusions of Victory'', ch. 22</ref> * The '''Skye Mall''' - This is a twelve-story complex, completed in [[3061]]. The building was the brainchild of late [[Ryan Steiner]], who gave final approval shortly before he was assassinated in [[3056]]. His estate choose to continue on with the project as a tribute to him. Its first level an extensive food-court and holovid multiplex, the next six stories an endless array of retail stores with the remaining stories a mix of high-end restaurants, business offices and a broadcast news station.<ref name=MWGtS7-104>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', p. 104: "First Impressions - A Day Like Any Other - Behind the Scenes"</ref> ** '''Darmon<nowiki>'</nowiki>s''' - This is a restaurant located inside the Skye Mall that occupies part of two stories. Decorated with Bavarian motif and with larger murals of mountainous landscapes in all walls while also displaying animal heads and antique firearms. The staff is also dresses in traditional barbarian costumes. In [[3064]] it was said to give the best food in city.<ref name=MWGtSp103-105>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', pp. 103–105</ref> * '''Skye Tiger Mall''' - Located on the eastern edge of the sector, the renamed '''Oonthrax Mall''' is the main facility of Oonthrax successor Skye Tiger Stables. Once a major shopping mall, the parking lot was converted to a training field, while the shops and offices were converted to house MechWarriors and administrative personnel. The old Parking garages now serve as bays for the 'Mech storage and repair.<ref name="SOLARISGMBp19">''Solaris VII: The Game World – Gamemaster's Book'', p. 19: "Oonthrax Stables"</ref><ref name=IoV-C10>''Illusions of Victory'', ch. 10</ref> * '''Steiner Park''' - Located between Siebert Street and the Solaris River,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is pleasant green pack displaying several status of celebrated individuals from Lyran history and located near the Lyran Building.<ref name="SBS-PGp43_44"/> * The Open Class arena [[Steiner Stadium]], located between Luisen Street and Petersburg Street.<ref name=MWGS128-133/><ref name="SBS-PGp43b"/> * '''The Swooping Crane''' - Located between Kirchner Street and Lake Drive,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a Schwarz restaurant of some note that is actually a front for the '''Hundred Swordsman''' triad. Around 3051 a raid by a '''Blood''' gang ended with several deaths, but no official investigation was done as when the authorities arrived all evidence has been hidden.<ref name="SBS-PGp43b"/> * '''The Tamar Domains''' - Located between Douglas Street and Alsa Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is a hotel similar to the Fist and they are both rivals. It is managed by [[Eusabio Birkin]], who has been accused of damaging the image of ''The Fist'' to attract customers.<ref name="SBS-PGp43a"/> * [[Thor's Shieldhall]] - Located between Arnulf Street and Cosgrove Street,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> near Cathay.<ref name="SBS-PGp43b"/> This is arguable the best known Solaris sports bar in the Inner Sphere, where the reigning [[Class Six Champions|Solaris Champion]] is given the seat of honor on the champion's dais in the exclusive [[Valhalla (place)|Valhalla Club]]. Competitions for a seat are high, and some rivalries between arena fighters have started because of this.<ref name=WEG-C5>''Warrior: En Garde'', ch. 5</ref><ref name=S7-PB-43>''Solaris VII: The Game World - Player Book'', p. 43: "Silesia - Entertainment - Thor's Shieldhall (S-28)"</ref><ref name=AoR-C16>''Assumption of Risk'', ch. 16</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-74>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', p. 74: "A Brief History of Solaris VII - A Tour of Solaris City - Silesia -The Drive-By"</ref><ref name=IoV-7>''Illusions of Victory'', ch. 7</ref><ref name=MWGtS7-128/> * '''Vernon Singh Mansion''' - Located between Brienner Avenue and Cholm Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this is the walled estate of [[Vernon Singh]], head of [[Lion City Stables]]. The house is decorated in Middle Eastern style.<ref name="SBS-PGp43_44"/> * '''White Pine''' - Located between Lake Drive and Channing Avenue,<ref name=MWGS128-133/> this estate is owned by [[Rhianna Murray]], owner of the [[Overlord Stables]]. The house has a Neo-Victorian design with elements of nineteenth-century English art and architecture.<ref name="SBS-PGp43_44"/> <br> <br> == Unknown Neighborhood Locations == This is the place to set all locations which belong to Solaris City but have no specific neighborhood. ===Known Locations=== * '''Farsi Club''': A bar active during the Word of Blake occupation of Solaris.<ref name=Meiyop15>''Meiyo'', p. 15</ref> * The facilities for [[Gilgamesh Stables]].<ref name="GILGAMESHSTABLESp3c">''Gilgamesh Stables'', p. 3: "Facilities"</ref> * The facilities for [[Innovative Design Concepts]].<ref name=HBHS147>''Handbook: House Steiner'', p. 147: "Innovative Design Concepts Profile"</ref> * '''Lion City''' - This is the nickname of the training grounds belonging to [[Lion City Stables]]. The buildings and surrounding areas are suffering for the cash-flow issues the stable has been experiencing. It is located west of Solaris City.<ref name="SGM-GMp20">''Solaris VII: The Game World – Gamemaster's Book'', p. 20: "Lion City Stables"</ref> * '''Mordel's Bar and Grill''', a bar somewhere in the city.<ref name=RGiCv8p10>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 8'', p. 10</ref> * The facilities for [[Omnitech Industries]].<ref name=HBHS148>''Handbook: House Steiner'', p. 148: "Omnitech Industries (Not Trading) Profile"</ref> * '''Pete<nowiki>'</nowiki>s''' - This is a popular restaurant with a loyal customer base. The menu is considered "classic Italian" with outstanding quality.<ref name=MWGSp113>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'', p. 113: "Pete's"</ref> * '''Shostakovich Port''': A place in the city.<ref name=Meiyop22>''Meiyo'', p. 22</ref> * [[Silverlake Customs]] - This is a 'Mech firm specialized in 'Mech customization.<ref name=WH/> * '''Sportsmen's Club''' - This is the Club where the gamers of Solaris VII (the owners and agents who made the world work) go.<ref name=WH/> * The facilities for [[Starlight Stables]] consist of a building where in the base there is a small arena, barracks and an underground repair bay for modifications on the 'Mechs.<ref name=S7BSGBp17>''Solaris VII: The Game World – Gamemaster's Book'', p. 17: "Starlight Stables"</ref> * '''Vladivostok''' - This is a big office building with looks over [[Montenegro]] across the Solaris River. This puts the place between [[Silesia]] and [[Cathay]].<ref name=WH/> * '''Wolf Creek''' - This is the facility belonging to [[White Hand Stables]].<ref>''Solaris VII: The Game World – Gamemaster's Book'', p. 16: Facilities - Description of Wolf Creek and where</ref> * '''Zelazni Training Center''' - this is the training facility from [[Zelazni Stables]], located river west of Solaris City. The facility includes advanced training simulators, a well-supplied repair bay and also space for personal on vacations.<ref name="SGM-GMp21">''Solaris VII: The Game World – Gamemaster's Book'', p. 21: "Zelazni Stables"</ref> <br> <br> ==The Reaches== ===Xolara=== <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:Solaris_City_Xolara.JPG|right|260px]] The following zones of Solaris City are considered '''The Reaches'''. :'''Location:''' Suburbs surrounding Solaris City :'''Dominant Affiliation:''' Rasalhagian, Periphery :'''Population:''' 850,000 (estimated) as per 3068<ref name=SWXp14>''The Solaris Watchman'', p. 14: "Xolara"</ref> :'''Dominant Language:''' English :'''Per Capita Income:''' 16,800 C-bills as per 3068<ref name=SWXp14/> :'''Below Poverty Level:''' 21.7% as per 3068<ref name=SWXp14/> :'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Mafia, Yakuza, Triads, Tongs, various street gangs During the [[Star League]] Xolara was part of the heart of the City's industrial zone, but the collapse of the Star League triggered a spiral of decay that culminated in the [[Marik]] nuclear bombardments in [[2903]] as it levered entire neighborhoods and destroyed what had been called "a model of urban planning".<ref name="STRp15">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 15: "Xolara"</ref> Toxic wastes combines with radioactive residues converted most of Xolara into death zones.<ref name="STRp5b">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 5: "History - Tragedy Strikes"</ref> But life is hard to kill and during the past 300 years life has returned to Xolara... but not equally, some 'Mech design and production firms have returned returning live to some neighborhoods, while in other places of Xolara, gangs and thugs reign among the ruins, unchecked by any kind of authority.<ref name="STRp15"/> There are four neighborhoods more famous than the rest on Xolara. '''Amberton Quarter''' is Xolara's red-light district. It lies far from the area's tourist zone and few of them venture here. Neither [[Mafia]] nor [[Yakuza]] have tried to set a light to operate here though. '''Keego Harborton''' has a standard of living only slightly lower than '''Solaris City'''. The nearer the river, the more expensive they are. '''Northern Heights''' is nestled in the foothills of Solaris City and it was largely spared in the Marik nuclear attack. It has improved a lot during the reconstruction with new shopping districts and several small arenas built there. This is the most visited neighborhoods of Xolara which makes it one of the most patrolled by the Solaris police. '''The Zones''' on the other hand was the zone of Xolara most hit by the Marik nuclear strike. Though habitable again, mostly small 'Mech shops and built facilities have returned there.<ref name=STRp16>''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 16: "Xolara - Neighborhoods"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> ====Known Locations==== <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:Baloos_Museum.JPG|right|260px]] *{{Anchor|Baloo's Museum}}'''Baloo's Museum''' - This is a tourist trap. The Baloo's Museum of the Unique and Indescribable is little more than a freak show. Shows are expensive, and the fully stocked bar is known for his watered drinks. Though full of pickpockets and muggers, Baloo still draws tourists and thrill-seekers.<ref name=STRp17>''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 17: "Xolara - Entertainment"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> * '''Beaumunt General Hospital''' - A fifteen-story building,<ref name="STRp69"/> this is a 300 beds hospital that was built after the [[Succession Wars]]. The hospital consists of several small buildings interconnected and located on an eight-acre campus of forested rolling hills, and it is specialized in implant surgery and cancer treatment. The hospital takes its name from Dr. [[Hugo Beaumunt]], one of the pioneers in bionic implant rejection. There are rumors that the hospital is running illegal cybernetic combat implementation and captured Clan genetics technology.<ref name=STRp15_16>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 15–16: "Xolara - City Administration"</ref> * '''The Bismark''' - A five-story building,<ref name="STRp69"/> this is a hotel that has gone from the top to the bottom. Once a luxury hotel, not it is just a place with incredibly low rates. Gossip says that every House intelligence organization has used the hotel as staging area from time to time.<ref name=STRp16_17>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 16–17: "Xolara - Neighborhoods"</ref> *{{Anchor|Branson Brewery}}'''Branson Brewery''' - This is one of Solaris' best breweries. Their installations were damaged during the Jihad and it took the brand some time to reestablish its brand. The Brewery is the sole sponsor of the [[Branson Brewery League]].<ref name="SRD">''The Season at Rankar's Deep''</ref> * '''Campray Arms''' - An eight-story building,<ref name="STRp69"/> even though this is a two-star hotel, it is nevertheless the best hotel in '''Northern Heights'''. The hotel boasts a viewing lounge that allows to see all matches of the Solaris City arenas and also from the '''King of the Mountain'''. The Campray is owned by the Draconis Combine and managed by [[Kim Yantril]] (though rumors say he is an [[ISF]] agent). The hotel works with the best customer available, but also has room for some yakuza, for example the yakuza warlord [[Otolo no Ko Peterson]].<ref name=STRp16_17/> * '''Den of the Dispossessed''' - Colloquially known as The Den, this is an underground bar with a discothèque that attracts washed-up MechWarriors and others living on the edge of society. Lying in the ruins of an old factory, it deploys converted 'Mech cockpits as booths and its decoration is full of charred pieces of BattleMech armor line and the flags of forgotten stables. Any services can be purchased in The Den. The bar is owned by [[Ramos Lei]] (allegedly a MechWarrior of the [[Capellan Confederation]] that fought during the [[Andurien Secession]]) and his wife [[Francesca Lei]] tends the bar.<ref name=STRp17/> * The '''FRR Hall of Honor''' - This is a museum to the [[FRR]] to serve as memento of the nation. It was built by several expatriates and it contains several [[Clan]] [[Elemental (Battle Armor)|Elemental Battle Armor]] and [[BattleMech]] equipment bought back by survivors of the [[Clan Invasion]].<ref name=STRp17_18>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 17–18: "Xolara - Points of Interest"</ref> * '''The Grim Stretch''' - This is a mass graveyard that contains an unknown number of victims from the Marik nuclear bombardment that decimated Xolara. First, they were buried in mass graves in the field itself, and after that, their relatives erected several thousand tombstones and shrines at the site to commemorate their loved ones. This place is sacred to the locals and tourists visit the site to lay flowers. Prior to 3051 several companies were accused of illegally dumping toxic waste in the area. Soon afterwards, the executives of those companies died mysteriously.<ref name=STRp24_25>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 24–25: "Xolara - Miscellaneous"</ref> * The [[Hartford Gardens]] arena.<ref name=STRp18_20>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 18–20: "Xolara - Hartford Gardens"</ref> * The '''Headless 'Mech''' pub, were customers can have dinner and play darts.<ref name="SRDwNI">''The Season at Rankar's Deep'': "News Items"</ref> * The [[King of the Mountain]] arena.<ref name=STRp21_23>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 21–23: "Xolara - King of the Mountain"</ref> * [[Matani's 'Mechs]] - This is an upcoming small firm dedicated to [[BattleMech]] customization.<ref name=STR-24/> * '''Memorial Garden''' - This is a massive park build under authorization of the [[Solaris Civic Council]] during the rebuilding effort done on Solaris that followed the Marik attack. The park is filled with statues of several famous Lyran war heroes. At the beginning it was a place full of tourists, but an increase in gang activity has converted this park in a very dangerous place once the sun goes down, with several gangs considering the park part of their turf. Those gangs have defended it when felt threatened.<ref name=STRp17_18/> * '''Morte's Tavern''' - This is a place where a man down on his luck can get a cheap meal and a room in Xolara. It is owned by [[Slainte]].<ref name="OMN...">''Old MechWarriors Never...''</ref> * The [[Mosh Pit]] arena.<ref>''Spotlight: 3 April 3003 - Rhamses vs. Parkinson''</ref> * [[OGS Productions]] - This is a holovid production company noted for the hit series ''[[The Sterling Hawks]]'' and ''[[The Scarlet Bands]]''.<ref name=STRp17_18/><ref name=HHS-120>''Handbook: House Steiner'', p. 120: "Media and the Arts - Solaris Broadcasting Corporation"</ref> * [[O'Neil BattleMechs]] - O'Neil is one of the more notable small 'Mech design firms that produce so-called Solaris 'Mechs for the games.<ref name=STR-24>''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 24: "Xolara - 'Mech Tech"</ref><ref name=HBBS-147>''Handbook: House Steiner'', pp. 147–148: "BattleMech Design Firms of Solaris VII"</ref> * '''Randal's Arms''' - Owned by [[Raymond Randal IV]], this shop is specialized in the creation of unique weapons custom-tailored to the buyer's desire. Locals come to this place to buy legitimate weapons; some of them have even been able to purchase Clan-manufactured weapons.<ref name=STRp17_18/> * The '''[[Regulus Wrath Stables]]''' facilities.<ref name="SRDwNI"/> *{{Anchor|Shatner's Scrap and Collectives}}'''Shatner's Scrap and Collectives''' - This is a company that has been on Shatner's family for over more than 150 years and that has continued to thrive over the years. Recently, the actual owner, [[Anton Shatner]] signed an exclusive contract with '''King of the Mountain''' to collect all the salvage from the arena not reserved for victorious MechWarriors. The company's scrapyard is a virtual BattleMech graveyard with parts allegedly dating back to the [[Star League]] era. Those parts which can fetch a lot of money are stored, along antique vehicles and tanks from the days the [[SLDF]] tested their equipment on the Game World in well secured places. Ten trained dog guards and two armed guards equipped with industrial [[Exoskeleton]]s patrol the scrapyard at any given time.<ref name=STR-24/> * The [[Silhouette Stables]] has a walled estate in the Northern Heights area of Xolara with a very high security. Defended by a five meter high ferrocrete wall the facility is composed of a main house (that accommodates both MechWarriors and support personnel) situated at the front of the estate, while the 'Mech hangars and training areas are set towards the rear of the estate.<ref name="SILHOUETTESTABLESp3a">''Silhouette Stables'', p. 3: "Facilities"</ref> * '''Silver Dragon Bay''' - The [[Silver Dragon Stables]] 'Mech bay for repairs and modifications. It is heavily secured.<ref name="SolarisGamemastersBookp18">''Solaris VII: The Game World – Gamemaster's Book'', p. 18: "Silver Dragons Stables"</ref> * '''Silver Dragon Hill''' - Located near Xolara, this is the '''Silver Dragon Stables''' training ground which contains advanced simulators. It is heavily secured.<ref name="SolarisGamemastersBookp18"/> Live-fire exercises are rare as the Stable values its equipment.<ref name="SGM-GMp18">''Solaris VII: The Game World – Gamemaster's Book'', p. 18: "Silver Dragons Stables"</ref> * '''Solaris Police Substation''' - This police station is the brainchild of [[Solaris City]] Police Chief [[Theo Clarke]] after pushing from the [[Solaris Civic Council]] and Solaris City businessman to control the crime and try to contain it outside the city itself. The idea has not worked well, and riots and gang violence are boiling. The feeling that the crisis of [[3053]], which ended with 10 police officers dead as a similar number wounded with violence and looting everywhere is coming for a second round are common with Xolara's inhabitants.<ref name=STRp15_16/> In [[3086]], Xolara PD chief is [[Steven Bov-Tyler]].<ref name="SRDwNI"/> * The '''Solaris Prison''' - An eleven-story building<ref name="STRp69"/> known as "Rats' Den" by Xolara's inhabitants, this is a place where gangs can easily smuggle weapons and drugs inside. Prison breaks occur regularly. This is where the [[Solaris Civic Council]] can hide the City's crime problem. [[Lucas Lorenzo]], a former [[Federated Commonwealth]] officer is the man in charge of the prison.<ref name=STRp15_16/> * '''Southern Bank and Trust''' - This is a bank formed after the Fourth Succession War to finance the reconstruction of Xolara. The bank is an armed fortress to cow would-be robbers. Several heavily armed guards patrol the bank at all times, and Xolara's police substation is always ready to assist the bank's security team in case of any robbery attempt. On 3051 the bank's president is [[Beaver Krane]].<ref name=STRp24_25/> *{{Anchor|Spectator Building'''Spectator Building''' - A six-story building<ref name="STRp69"/> building belonging to the newspaper [[Solaran Spectator]] which covers the arenas of '''Xolara''', '''Burgton''' and the surrounding areas. *{{Anchor|Star Heights}}'''Star Heights''' - A twenty-nine-story building,<ref name="STRp69"/> this is a club that caters to the handful of wealthy Xolarans and of those others seeking an alternative to the ones on Solaris City proper. The club is located in a sleek leaning tower in Northern Heights neighborhood. The club hosts a restaurant on top with an excellent view of the [[King of the Mountain]] arena. The membership is expensive (more than 20,000 C-bills a year) and its clientele is a close guarded secret though rumors put several of the [[Solaris Civic Council]] members as members. The restaurant is owned by [[Barbara Byrd]], allegedly the sister of [[Loucynda Byrd]].<ref name=STRp24_25/> * The [[Vampires Stables]] small 'Mech-repair shop.<ref name=SRp13>''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 13: "Vampires Stable"</ref> * [[Vining Engineering and Salvage Team]] main facilities - One of the more successful garage 'Mech design firms, VEST has developed a number of designs for both the arenas and the general military market.<ref name=STR-24/><ref name=HBBS-147/> The facilities were destroyed by the WoB in 3068, but not before VEST was able to evacuate several prototypes of the ''[[Valiant (BattleMech)|Valiant]]'' and most of their development team.<ref name=MSUp149>''Mercenaries Supplemental Update'', p. 149: "V4-LNT-K7 Valiant"</ref> * '''The Wyningham''' - A ten-story building,<ref name="STRp69"/> this was once an excellent hotel during the [[Star League]], but the hotel has gone from bad to worse since the Marik nuclear attack. The family owners (the '''Wyninghams''') rebuild the hotel, but that movement was not done by other landowners, which left the hotel without the clientele they needed. The hotel can barely keep up with their debts, and the actual owner, [[Turlin Wyningham]] has been forced to sell some of the exquisite pieces it had to keep up.<ref name=STRp16_17/> * The '''[[Wyren Claws Stables]]''' facilities.<ref name="SRDwNI"/> * [[Xolara Arena]] - This is a small arena from Solaris. It has also next to it the repair bays and all needed to support the games.<ref name="OMN..."/> * Xolara Arena Headquarters - These are the facilities belonging to the [[Xolara Arena Stables]].<ref name="OMN..."/> <br> <br> ===Burgton=== :'''Location:''' Xolara suburbs (surrounding Xolara) :'''Dominant Affiliation:''' Lyran, Rasalhagian, Periphery (possibly Clan) :'''Population:''' 12,000 (estimated) as per 3068<ref name=SWBp15>''The Solaris Watchman'', p. 15: "Burgton"</ref> :'''Dominant Language:''' English :'''Per Capita Income:''' 15,200 C-bills as per 3068<ref name=SWBp15/> :'''Below Poverty Level:''' 28.7% as per 3068<ref name=SWBp15/> :'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Mafia, Yakuza, Triads, Tongs, various street gangs '''Burgton''' comprises several communities and small villages spread-out beyond the sprawl of '''Solaris City''' and '''Xolara'''. Minor arenas dot them, as do some small 'Mech design firms. Here gangs are free to operate as there are no police patrols.<ref name="STRp26">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 26: "Burgton"</ref> After the [[Jihad]], half of the Burgton precincts were controlled by [[Connor DeLon]].<ref name=AllinaDayWork>''All in a Day’s Work''</ref> ====Towns of Burgton==== <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:Dowagiac_City.JPG|right|260px]] * '''Dowagiac''' - This is the oldest town from Burgton with 950 inhabitants is also one of the larger. It started as a 'Mech production center's low-cost housing for their employers. When the League died so suffered Dowagiac. Now only a handful of family owned firms do business there.<ref name="STRp26b">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 26: "Dowagiac"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:North_Pier_City.JPG|right|260px]] * '''North Pier''' - This was known as Solaris City's waste dump. The conversion of this dump into a 'Mech arena brought money to the area and triggered its economic rebirth. Visitors now come to see the matches and even some of the monuments. Several former [[Free Rasalhague Republic]] refugees fleeing the [[Clan Invasion]] as well as some Lyrans doing the same have flooded the town. Travelers are now warned to avoid the Pier at night.<ref name="STRp27">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 27: "North Pier"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:Joppa_City.JPG|right|260px]] * '''Joppa''': On [[3050]] this "town" was little more than a wayside bar and a munitions works. And then all that changed. In [[3053]] the town had grown to a small and secretive community. Rumors run wild on who this group of secretive residents come ([[Clan]] defectors, outcasts...). All agencies in the [[Inner Sphere]] have sent investigation teams, but nothing has been discovered on them.<ref name="STRp34">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 34: "Joppa"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:Kalamazoo_City.JPG|right|260px]] * '''Kalamazoo''' - This is the village originated to cater tourists visiting the crash site of the Star League-era DropShip ''[[Trident (Individual Overlord-class DropShip)|Trident]]''. But the past two centuries haven't been kind to the place. This town has degenerated into a den of cutthroats and killers, an unofficial "assassins court" for [[Solaris VII]]. Several gangs operate here. The locals also operate several small 'Mech arenas, which are really nothing more than open fields outfitted with grandstands for spectators.<ref name="STRp35">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 35: "Kalamazoo"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> ====Known Locations==== =====Dowagiac===== {{Anchor|Dowagiac}} * '''Drums General Store''' - This is a general stock store where customers can find everything from foodstuff to survival suppliers. The shop is owned by [[Wayne Dyr]], and people says it is also a good place to find also information.<ref name=STRp26_27>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 26–27: "Burgton - Dowagiac"</ref> * '''Iron Fist Club''' - This is a private tavern that is home of a quasi-military political group called '''Iron Fists'''. The Group is formed by [[Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces]] that despise the merger with the Federated Suns and would support a civil war to brake it. Led by [[Talon Gar]], a former [[Tenth Lyran Guard]] veteran, it seems they are preparing a private army to side with the Lyran would-be independents. They've become quite rich by betting and some fear is on the streets... [[MIIO]] and [[LIC]] have started to trail and have them under surveillance.<ref name=STRp26_27/> * '''Krista's Parlor''' - This is the one of the best and safest tattoo shop on [[Solaris]]. Owned by [[Angela Kristoderson]], this shop has worked for MechWarrior and wealthy tourist. A high fee and the need for a recommendation makes this an elite establishment.<ref name=STRp26_27/> * '''O'Toole<nowiki>'</nowiki>s''' - This is a bar and restaurant located in a basement. The place holds six massive tri-vid screens to show matches from the various arenas in [[The Reaches]]. Few tourist come because no big 5 arena matches are displayed, but locals do love the place. The local is owned by [[Donald O'Toole]], a failed MechWarrior who is known to provide free drinks to any MechWarrior who stops there.<ref name=STRp26_27/> * [[Ryder's Modifications]] - This is a small company that modifies BattleMechs owned by [[Merril Ryder]].<ref name=STR>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 26–27: "Ryder's Modifications"</ref><ref name="STRp26b"/> =====North Pier===== {{Anchor|North Pier}} * '''Anchor Bay Brewery''' - This is the most well-known brewery on The Reaches. Owned since the 2800s by the '''Cantor''' family, it has been able as of late to sell a lot of their brands in Solaris City with Anchor Original also very well-known off-world, and with Solaran Dark and Anchor Lite starting to grow big off-world too. Mafia and Yakuza might have tried to extort money from them, but the loyalty of both the locals and staff is so high that they have failed all times.<ref name=STRp27_30>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 26–27: "Burgton - North Pier"</ref> The Anchor Bay Brewery was destroyed within the first 24 hours of Blakist occupation of Solaris VII.<ref name=JSTBD-25>''Jihad Secrets: The Blake Documents'', p. 25: "Jihad: The Early Years - Operation: SHOWTIME"</ref> <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:Averys_on_the_Water.JPG|right|260px]] *{{Anchor|Avery's on the Water}}'''Avery's on the Water''' - A two-story hotel,<ref name="STRp69">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 69: "Hotel/Apartment Building Examples"</ref> this is a 200-year-old hotel that overlooks the Solaris River would be classified as a medium-quality hotel in the City proper. On [[The Reaches]] it is a luxury one. Rooms are named after famous gladiators of the Solaris circuit while the most expensive suites (named after [[Cabol Hirsch]] and [[Gray Noton]]) have excellent views on the Solaris River and direct tri-vid connections to [[The Scrapyard]] and [[Boreal Reach]]. The hotel opened a casino on [[3051]] and now it is also a tourist destination. Rumors day Mafia or Yakuza are backing the hotel.<ref name=STRp27_30/> <div style="clear:both"></div> * '''The Cabin''' - This is a tavern located in the shadows of Avery's on the Water that only accepts MechWarriors as clients (and enforces this policy). The tavern has several reserves for private meetings. As of late [[3051]] the place has become a sort of recruiting place for smaller mercenary units trying to find talents from Burgton arenas. The place is owned by [[Ulton Farkhan]], allegedly of Liao affiliation (and who has survived several assassination attempts because of his past).<ref name=STRp27_30/> * [[Kramer's Parts and Machinery]] - This is a small company that modifies BattleMechs.<ref name="STRp27"/> * The [[Hombres Stables]] stablehouse and a small practice field are located ten kilometers north of the town.<ref name=SRp12>''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 12: "Hombres Stable"</ref> * '''North Bridge''' - This is a crossing over the Solaris River. This is the only connection between Solaris City proper and the isolated Burgton communities. The bridge was built during the [[Star League]], though the centuries have taken their toll. A toll was established to cross it and the [[Solaris Civic Council]] is the one enforcing this payment. On [[3051]] this post is covered by inspector [[Thad Opel]] known to accept any bribe and also known for trying to extort money for the small vendors that make the bridge his place of work.<ref name=STRp27_30/> * [[Rakker's Machine Shop]] - This is a small company that modifies ground cars.<ref name="STRp27"/> * [[The Scrapyard]] arena.<ref name="STRp27"/> * '''Wastelands''' - Also known as Reftown, this was a site of a massive trash incinerator that with an influx of refugees has converted itself in a small community with the shelters made by themselves inside '''North Pier'''. The population is a mixture of refugees of the [[Clan Invasion]] and washed-up MechWarriors. The community has created a community center and a soup kitchen inside the old incinerator. The refugees live in extreme poverty and will do almost anything for money, like panhandle among tourist who visit the North Bridge. Their reputation among Solarans is the lowest one. The actual leader of the group is [[Ralf Holm]] who is known for trying to add a pipe with drinking water and electricity to the community, a refugee from the [[Tamar Pact]] that claims to have fought besides [[Duke]] [[Selvin Kelswa (31st c.)|Selvin Kelswa]] on [[Tamar]] during the [[Wolf Clan]] attack that claimed Tamar City, though this is a claim, and several of his fellow refugees (from [[Rasalhague]]) think he is in reality a Rasalhagian like them.<ref name=STRp27_30/> =====Joppa===== {{Anchor|Joppa (town)}} * [[Barrymore Munitions Works]] - This is a small company that manufactures ammunition.<ref name="STRp34"/> * '''Crossroads Inn''' - This is a small rooming house that has been in '''Joppa''' for decades. Since [[3050]] several of the inn's guest bear small tattoos of green falcons and vipers, which was the trigger of the coming of Intelligence agencies.<ref name=STRp34_35>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 26–27: "Burgton - Joppa"</ref> * The [[Huntsmen Stables]] stablehouse. The deserted manor was picked as headquarters and converted into a BattleMech repair facility, with a dormitory for all the Stable personnel. The Stable uses a large field next to the manor as training grounds. Security in the compound is tight.<ref name="STRp34"/> * '''Moon Beams Bar and Grill''' - This is a fixture in the neighborhood since [[2950]]s, this restaurant/bar is one of the few places in '''Joppa''' where both locals and visitors can be found together, though they do not mix. The place changed hands and its actual owner [[Drake (Solaris City)|Drake]] has imposed a no violence policy, which his bartender/bouncer [[Drew (Solaris City)|Drew]] enforces. On [[3051]] both are new to '''Joppa''', and they've attracted their share of speculation about their origins.<ref name=STRp34_35/> * '''Shrint's Loans''' - This is a private loan institution owned by [[Devron Shrint]]. The house only provides short-term loans up to 30,000 C-bills and with astronomical interest rates, which have labeled him as loan shark. Though several of those who have failed to pay have "disappeared"", police investigation has been unable to trace those to him.<ref name=STRp34_35/> =====Kalamazoo===== {{Anchor|Kalamazoo}} * '''Anspach Bar and Grill''' - This is a typical local tavern that hides its secrets in the backrooms. There it is possible to contract an assassin: from minor leaguers, former mercenaries, retired intelligence operatives or even cold-blooded killers.<ref name=STRp35_37>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 26–27: "Burgton - Kalamazoo"</ref> * '''Banshees Stables 'Mech Bays''' - This is a small building located outside the village proper.<ref name=StRp13>''Solaris VII: The Reaches'', p. 13: "Gangs and Stables" - Banshee Stable</ref> * [[Banshees Stables]] residence - This is the unofficial stablehouse of the Stable.<ref name=StRp13/> * '''Barnard's Emporium and Antiques''' - Also known as The Barnyard, this is an antique shops decorated haphazardly. Owned by [[Stanley Gram]], rumor says he has sometimes served [[Snord's Irregulars]] since [[3048]]. The most prized item is a marble staircase originally imported from [[Terra]] to be used in the manor of a defunct stable manor for [[Red Wings Stables]]. Nobody knows where all the money the shop goes, and rumor on the street says if could be used to finance a new stable.<ref name=STRp35_37/> * '''Grawn Cemetery''' - This place is known among [[The Reaches]] as the "MechWarriors' Graveyard". Located in a small plateau beyond the '''Toyama Monastery''', this is a cemetery that hosts those MechWarriors that die in the [[Solaris Games]] and are not claimed. The remains of four [[Stinger]] mark the corners of the cemetery. Markers and headstones are fashioned from parts of the fallen warrior's mount. All this gives the cemetery an eerie feel of a battlefield. Since the 2700s the '''Grawn''' family has maintained the cemetery, founded basically by the donations left by the handful of tourists who visit the site.<ref name=STRp35_37/> * '''Pierce's Clothiers''' - This is a quality tailor shop outside Solaris City that even attracts wealthier residents on Solaris City. A two-man shop owned by [[Ankara Pierce]], they can modify the suit for an additional cost to add a concealed holster, a knife sheaths or even to fit bulletproof material.<ref name=STRp35_37/> * '''Toyama Monastery''' - A three-story building,<ref name="STRp69"/> this is an old Buddhist monastery that was abandoned during the [[First Succession War]] that has been during the years converted to apartments, stores... but all have failed. The building was in a severe state of disrepair when on [[3051]] the [[Word of Blake]] members arrived and began to restore it. Since then, two dozen Word of Blake members live there. The monastery name was changed and renamed after [[Primus of ComStar|Primus]] [[Conrad Toyama]]. The face of the monastery is [[Precentor]] [[Judith Vincents]] who oversees it and interviews outsiders who express their desire to join the Word of Blake. Policy makes it clear that no outsides are allowed inside. Gossip says that Word of Blake are planning to field their own Stable in the Reaches arenas.<ref name=STRp35_37/> * The [[Warner MechWarrior Academy]] - A two-story building,<ref name="STRp69"/> this is a small and not very professional [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarrior]] Academy.<ref name="STRp35"/> <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:SLS_trident_club.PNG|right|260px]] *{{Anchor|Wreck of the SLS Trident}}'''Wreck of the SLS Trident''' - This is the crash site of the [[Trident (Individual Overlord-class DropShip)|SLS ''Trident'']]. It was a famous tourist attraction and quickly after the crash tourist started coming here, and indeed Kalamazoo was born when the first residents settled in to cater those tourist. Years were not kind to the place and vines and brush grew over the ship's burned hull. And just when it seemed the place would be forgotten, [[Darryl Sabe]] took ownership of the place. She opened a small and private club inside the remodeled hull. Membership is by invitation only, and most of the elite on the Reaches are members.<ref name=STRp35_37/> <div style="clear:both"></div> ====Other Locations of Burgton==== * The Main Complex from the [[Dispossessed Cooperative]] is located in '''Burgton'''.{{cn}} * '''Pluto's Hangar''' - This is a MechWarrior Bar which has been described as a rat infested hole-in-the-wall. It has a large tri-vid screen to review Solaris bouts.<ref name=AGWIABS7/> <br> <br> ===Bracken Swamp=== :'''Location:''' Southwest of Solaris City :'''Dominant Affiliation:''' Lyran, Periphery :'''Population:''' 2,200 (estimated) as per 3068<ref name=SWBSp15>''The Solaris Watchman'', p. 15: "Broken Swamp"</ref> :'''Dominant Language:''' German :'''Per Capita Income:''' 15,600 C-bills as per 3068<ref name=SWBSp15/> :'''Below Poverty Level:''' 30.8% as per 3068<ref name=SWBSp15/> :'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Mafia, Tongs, various street gangs The swamplands outside '''Burgton''' have been always a sparsely populated region of Solaris. During the Star League era it housed a massive sewage treatment plant, lost during a fight between two reinforced 'Mech Battalions of [[SLDF]] deserters against the Commonwealth 'Mech defenders along several small communities.<ref name="STRp5">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 5: "History - Early Years"</ref> Today only one arena and a few small communities of fugitives make a meager living here. Very few outsiders venture into the Bracken Swamp except those visiting the 'Mech arena.<ref name="STRp38">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 38: "Bracken Swamp"</ref> ====Towns of Bracken Swamp==== * '''Beal City''' was founded more than 40 years ago by the "entrepreneur" [[Kassandra Van Beal]] (a pirate), and lies deep in the Bracken Swamp, hidden by dense flora and near constant mists. The village's buildings rest on stilts sunk into the shallow swampland which makes the residents enter or leave via rope bridges and small boats. The majority of the inhabitants are fugitives from Solaran or [[Federated Commonwealth]] authorities. [[The Highwaymen]]'s leader, [[Reggie Philburn|Reggie "The Red" Philburn]] is known to operate in this area. Because of this Solaran authorities have tried repeatedly to capture him, hence increasing his appearance in the town.<ref name="STRp38b">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 38: "Beal City"</ref> * '''Rowe''', takes its name from the Arena's owner [[Rowe Jullian]]. The village itself remains far from prosperous as the Arena is the only supporting business it has. Jullian's descendants in a way still run the village. Most of the families either work for the Arena or a few of the related business around it. This is a rural community lacking basic municipal services, where villagers live in houses set on high stilts anchored in the marshy ground and with small boats as the only means of transportation.<ref name="STRp39">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 39: "Rowe"</ref> ====Known Locations==== =====Beal City===== {{Anchor|Beal City}} <div style="clear:both"></div> [[Image:Beal_City.PNG|right|260px]] * '''The Gallows''' - This is a bar popular as a watering hole for '''Beal City''' residents. Visitors are not allowed by the policy of [[Amos Zegler]] the owner. Two things make this place visible: three nooses painted as a reminder of three criminals hanged at the site on [[3038]] and a collection of hats and helmets covering the wall behind the bar. Legend says they belong to bounty hunters who tried to apprehend their targets in the tavern.<ref name=STRp38_39>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 26–27: "Bracken Swamp - Beal City"</ref> * '''Mackey's Swampcraft and Store''' - This is a combination of boat dock and general store that also operates as a shuttle boat service into and out of '''Bracken Swamp''' for a quite reasonable price. Owned by [[Edwards Jullian-Mackey]] it is known for his schemes against his passengers, which include fake "breakdowns" during travel time which needed long waiting times, combined with outrageous prices on the food their passengers need to eat while the repairs are ongoing. Some MechWarriors found this behavior distasteful and his life might be in danger.<ref name=STRp38_39/> * '''Ruggers' Outriggers''' - This is a shop where new and used survival equipment can be bought. The shop also buys equipment from time to time. Prices are good. The shops is owned by [[Kraig Ruggers]], a man with a mysterious past.<ref name=STRp38_39/> * '''Tanya's Place''' - This is a brothel well known in both [[The Reaches]] and in [[Solaris City]] because of its reputation for dealing straight, for its discretion and for the beauty of the "employees". It is owned by [[Tatiana Ford]], who has a lot of contacts among the Solaran government and the locals, thanks in part of her generous investment of much of the earnings into the community.<ref name=STRp38_39/> * '''Vargus' Fortunes''' - This is the operation of [[Louanda Vargus]] a fortune-teller since [[3047]] with a long list of clients. Known for her uncanny knack for accurate predictions of the future, MechWarriors go there to seek any advantage they can get, and even some Stables consider themselves to be Vargus' patrons. '''Louanda''' is missing an eye, rumors say because of an unhappy customer.<ref name=STRp38_39/> <div style="clear:both"></div> =====Rowe===== {{Anchor|Rowe (town)}} *{{Anchor|Larzellier Communications}}'''Larzellier Communications''' - This is a satellite communications operation that broadcasts the matched from '''The Pool'''. Owned by [[Leticia Larzellier]], she also owns the only private electric generator in Rowe. This put her in trouble with [[Vandrake Jullian]], owner of the Pool on [[3053]], because he wanted to run her out of business and buy the generator.<ref name=STRp39b/> * '''The Saratoga''' - This is a combination of bar, restaurant and casino where the prices are high (because of greed of the owner, [[Silvia Jullian]]) and the games are rigged. The place is really only full on match nights, being nearly empty the rest of the time.<ref name=STRp39b/> * [[Snorkel's]] - This is a small company specialized in aquatic 'Mech modifications.<ref name=STRp39b>''Solaris: The Reaches'', pp. 26–27: "Bracken Swamp - Rowe"</ref> * [[The Pool]] arena.<ref name="STRp39"/> * The [[Wraiths Stables]] facilities. ====Other Places of Bracken Swamp==== * [[Banshees Stables]] training ground - These are several heavy secluded hills that surround Broken Swamp.<ref name=StRp13/> * The [[Pocopo Stables]] base.<ref name=MWGtS>''MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII'': "First Impressions"</ref> <br> <br> ===Roland Fields=== :'''Location:''' Northeast of Solaris City :'''Dominant Affiliation:''' Lyran, Periphery :'''Population:''' 1,800 (estimated) as per 3068<ref name=SWRFp15>''The Solaris Watchman'', p. 15: "Roland Fields"</ref> :'''Dominant Language:''' German :'''Per Capita Income:''' 12,600 C-bills as per 3068<ref name=SWRFp15/> :'''Below Poverty Level:''' 33.8% as per 3068<ref name=SWRFp15/> :'''Known Underworld Activity:''' Mafia, Tongs, various street gangs Roland Fields is sparsely populated. It was part of the planet wildlife reserve during the [[Star League]], though after its fall it went neglected. Nowadays it hosts several testing locations where Stables and 'Mech design firms can put their machines to the test.<ref name="STRp44">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 44: "Roland Fields"</ref> ====Known Locations==== * [[Barrymore Range]] - This is the testing range of '''Barrymore Works'''.<ref name="STRp44b">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 44: "Barrymore Range"</ref> * [[Blue Shot Weapons]]' main facility near Roland Fields.<ref name="JSBDp26">''Jihad Secrets: The Blake Documents'', p. 26: "Operation: ''Showtime''"</ref> * [[The Mud Pit]] arena.<ref name="STRp44"/> * [[Solaris Arms]] Test Field - This is a private testing field used by the 'Mech design firm.<ref name="STRp44"/> * The [[Tennessee Valley Arena]]<ref name=WH/> <br> <br> ==Unknown The Reaches Locations== * The '''National House Inn'''.<ref name="STRp70">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 70: "Inn/House Examples"</ref> * [[The Pentastars]] base of operations, located in an abandoned factory in the northern Reaches.<ref name="STRp10a">''Solaris: The Reaches'', p. 10: "Gangs and Stables - The Dead"</ref> ==References== <references/> ==Bibliography== <div class="desktop-3-col"> * ''[[Assumption of Risk]]'' * ''[[List of Solaris Broadcasting Co. articles#Spotlight: Rhamses vs. Parkinson 3 April 3003|BattleCorps Solaris Broadcasting Co., 03/04/3003: "Spotlight: Rhamses vs. Parkinson 3 April 3003"]]'' * ''[[List of Solaris Broadcasting Co. articles#All in a Day's Work (3072-05-19)|BattleCorps Solaris Broadcasting Co., 19/05/3072: "All in a Day’s Work"]]'' * ''[[List of Solaris Broadcasting Co. articles#Dukes-Haider Trials Over|BattleCorps Solaris Broadcasting Co., 14/11/3074: "Dukes-Haider Trials Over"]]'' * ''[[List of Solaris Broadcasting Co. articles#The Season at Rankar.E2.80.99s Deep.E2.80.94News Items|BattleCorps Solaris Broadcasting Co., 3086: "The Season at Rankar's Deep—News Items"]]'' * ''[[Blood Price]]'' * ''[[Dawn of the Jihad]]'' * ''[[Experimental Technical Readout: Royal Fantasy]]'' * ''[[Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised]]'' * ''[[The Final Game]]'' * ''[[First Chair]]'' (in: ''[[BattleTech: 25 Years of Art & Fiction]]'') * ''[[A Guy Walks Into a Bar on Solaris VII...]]'' * ''[[Handbook: House Steiner]]'' * ''[[Illusions of Victory]]'' * ''[[Jihad Secrets: The Blake Documents]]'' * ''[[Job Security]]'' * ''[[Lion's Roar]]'' * ''[[Main Event]]'' * ''[[MapPack: Solaris VII]]'' * ''[[MechWarrior's Guide to Solaris VII]]'' * ''[[Meiyo]]'' (short story) * ''[[Mercenary's Handbook 3055]]'' * ''[[Old MechWarriors Never...]]'' * ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 8]]'' * ''[[The Season at Rankar's Deep]]'' * [[Shrapnel (magazine)|''Shrapnel'' Volume 1]] * ''[[Solaris: The Reaches]]'' * ''[[Solaris VII: The Game World]]'' * ''[[BattleCorps Stable Reports#Stable Report: Gilgamesh Stables|Stable Report: Gilgamesh Stables]]'' * ''[[BattleCorps Stable Reports#Stable Report: Ice Giants|Stable Report: Ice Giants]]'' * ''[[BattleCorps Stable Reports#Stable Report: Toro Stables|Stable Report: Toro Stables]]'' * ''[[Unbound]]'' * ''[[Warrior: En Garde]]'' * ''[[Wolf Hunters]]'' </div> [[Category:Places]]

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