The Drift as it is known, is owned through a joint venture between Blue Sun Corp. and Browning Mining Firm. It was established as a port for transport ships who came to move the expensive ore from the nearby dead moon and asteroid belt. Though there is still mining done, during the war and shortly after, it became a way point and transport hub for the mass migration to the Rim from the Core. Due to it's way out location and the fact a profit was still being made, the Corporations started to rent out space to private parties. Soon the Drift became a thriving port much like the forts of old, from the Earth-That-Was.   Just after the War, it seemed as if the Corporations all but forgot about the Drift. Though mining was still being done, it was just not enough to keep interest. Before long, people started to build on. It became a mish-mash of parts and grew in size. It became a port of some reputation. Black market goods, second-class companions, and booze fueled thugs.	Brought to you by the Blue Sun Corporation. Keeping your interests at heart.
	Though the Alliance keeps a small contingent posted there (about twenty regulars), they're not real interested in doing the job. This is where they were sent when they made bad decisions - sort of the trash recycler of the Alliance military.   Soon, the locals established a civilian law. A corrupt sheriff, a corrupt council, and an even more corrupt legal court system. A fine was affectionately called a bribe. Inspectors on the Dock's took bribes. The bartenders took bribes. Even mothers sold their children's candy for the right place. Sometimes the children were thrown in free.   However, the Drift is also a haven for regular commerce. It boasts a market place where the mundane and exotic can be found. It still has a top notch postal service, a few (Okay, one.) fine dining establishment. Plus the bars and night clubs are even heard about as far as the Core. It's medical facilities are second to none in the area. (Not saying much, but it's something.) a fairly legitimate banking system, and coffee shops that don't strain the beans through ship coolant. Even fresh fruits, vegetables and meat can be found on the Drift.
Patella has become a city of despair and a haven for lost souls in the void. Need a job? Come to the Drift. Need a ride? Come to the Drift. Need to hide? Come to the Drift. We have it all, and then some!   This is the main base of operations for the Lotus. When not on patrol, she docks here for resupply and down time. Lotus is charged with keeping the peace around Patella, but not on... yet. Lotus is even blessed with her own docking berth. Anytime they're on the Drift, they're home...