In early 1063, a small film studio based in New Kilkenny released the movie Journey Through the Glasslands, a science fiction story about a ragtag band of teenagers that set out in search of adventure. Along the way, they encounter aliens, doppelgangers, and many other strange things. The group returns home rich and famous, forever changed by their willingness to explore. When the movie hit theaters, it was a resounding success. Its compelling story combined with innovative special effects never seen before in film had many waiting to see it. However, some youths took inspiration from the story and tried to embark on a journey into the Glasslands of their own. Slipping by the border outposts, roughly thirty persons crossed into the hazard zone. As should have been expected, none returned. When the police caught wind of this, security on the southern border was immediately tightened. President Oscar McConnelough made a nationwide announcement over the radio, reminding citizens that the Glasslands is off limits to anyone without a permit.