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Federation News Service

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  1. PELIOS — Latin beats captured the hearts of music lovers across the Federation as Alonso Callabra brought home a record-breaking third Fedevision victory for Earth. The 14th edition of the annual music festival took place this week in the peaceful Pelian capital city. Out of 40 contestants representing Federation member planets, from Tiburon to Bolarus IX, Earth emerged victorious in a nail-biting finish with the song “Para todos brilla el sol” (“The Sun Shines for Everyone”). Callabra, 29, hails from Copernicus City, Luna, and has been performing since he was a child. “It was such an honor to represent Earth,” said Callabra in a press conference after his victory. “I can’t wait to welcome everyone across the Federation back home next year.” Earth is the first planet to have won the contest three times. They previously won the inaugural Fedevision in 2386 and again in 2391. Only two other planets—Betazed and Risa—have multiple victories to their names. For the second year in a row, Bajor was runner up, this time by a razor-thin margin of just three points. The Tumulna-based folk band The Land + The People were the bookmaker’s favorites with their dramatic ballad, “In the Arms of The Prophets.” Rounding out the top five were Vulcan, Gideon, and Cestus III, the latter on its Fedevision debut. According to the contest’s rules, the winning planet gets the right to host the next year’s contest. Within hours of Callabra’s victory, several cities on Earth declared their interest in staging the event, among them Harare, Prishtina, and Hue. “We are tremendously proud of Alonso, who represented us so well in this year’s song contest,” said United Earth Minister of Culture Scarlett Bottomley. “Fedevision is an unparalleled opportunity to showcase to the entire galaxy what makes a planet and its people unique. We gladly take over the privilege and the responsibility of hosting from our friends and worthy predecessors on Pelios. Hosting in 2400 will have extra significance for us, as the people of Earth prepare to ring in the new century of our common calendar in the year 2401.” Praise for the Pelians’ organization and hosting of Fedevision 2399 was nearly universal. Officials, performers, and attendees alike enjoyed Pelios’ trademark peaceful hospitality while the contest itself was a technical and artistic success. “I will say that when we won last year, there were concerns about whether we could pull off an event of this magnitude,” said Pelian Tourism Minister Jiff. “But with determination and expert advice from previous host planets, we made our mark on the Federation.” Jiff was quick to emphasize that opportunities for tourists on Pelios were not going away just because the contest was over. “This event has opened us up to the rest of the galaxy, and we welcome anyone and everyone who wishes to see what makes Pelios great.” The post Earth wins Fedevision Song Contest 2399 appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  2. KLAESTRON IV — Governments across the Alpha and Beta Quadrants have expressed disappointment that the Klaestron government is withholding an incredible new treatment for plasma-burn scarring from distribution. The Ministry of Medicine recently announced that the latest iteration of their “Uhaa” technology was successful in facilitating the natural healing of plasma burns across a startling array of species. However, the newly elected government has directed the Ministry to stop sharing anything about the treatment with anyone off-world. Previous iterations of Uhaa, which burn care experts had long considered a miraculous treatment, were limited in their use to species that share similar DNA profiles to the Klaestron people. This is an unexpected change in course, as the Klaestron government stated their intentions six months ago to release the new treatment to the Federation, which promised fast and broad distribution to worlds within and beyond Federation space. The isolationist Handro Party, elected by a razor-thin majority after a no-confidence vote of the previous prime minister initiated a snap election, is driving the decision. Handro Party members often espouse hardline isolationism and advocate terminating diplomatic ties with the Federation. A’l’e’o’w’o’n’i’c, spokesperson for Starfleet Medical, decried the decision. “This is a clear example of cynical political tampering with medical advancement, and as a result, they will deny the lives of millions of gentle beings in desperate need of the best course of treatment. Medicine should transcend political beliefs.” Even the Klingon Medical Enclave released a statement, calling the decision a “merciless act of dishonor.” Klingons serving in the Imperial Navy suffer the highest rate of plasma burns among Alpha and Beta Quadrant space-faring species. This is due to the design of Bird-of-Prey warships, which use the light byproduct of plasma conduits to illuminate bridge consoles, an efficient but dangerous design that often results in drastic facial and torso burns when ships are damaged in battle. Non-Handro politicians from Klaestron IV, who spoke to local journalists, worried that this was the first step of many the new isolationist government intends to take. The opposition fears cutting off relations with outsiders will have a drastic effect on the planet’s recovery from a devastating civil war just 60 years ago. Formalized diplomatic relations with the Federation and Klingon Empire in the last decade have brought vast improvements in quality of life, trade, and technology on the planet. “[The Handro Party] wants to turn back the clock and change the outcome of the war,” said one official. Representatives from the Handro Party government have declined an invitation from the FNS to comment on this issue. The post Klaestron IV to restrict access to latest burn treatment appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  3. PELIOS — Officials in the Pelian capital are preparing for up to 500,000 tourists to descend on the city during the week-long Fedevision Song Contest. Music fever sweeps the Alpha Quadrant once again as musicians and artists gear up to represent their homeworlds in the annual music competition. The peaceful world of Pelios takes the reins from Delta IV as host of the festival, which millions across the galaxy watch over subspace. Last year on Delta IV, the Pelians stole the hearts of fans with their unique form of throat singing. Pelian biology includes a large internal throat sac which can expand with air and produces a deep bass sound when vibrated. Centuries ago, Pelians used this biological feature to communicate and even attract potential mates. The plucky little group ended the show with 362 points and the great honour of hosting this year’s contest. Speaking from Pelios, Tourism Minister Jiff said, “We’ve renovated a huge area of the main city to accommodate the influx of visitors, and we promise the entire event to be a Pelian spectacular. We’ve got light shows, plasma fireworks, after parties, festivals, the works. We want to show the entire quadrant what our little planet has to offer.” Through various regional heats held over the past several months, 40 countries have qualified for the main contest, which consists of two semi-finals and a grand final. Among the acts performing live on Pelios include Earth’s Alonso Callabra, who hopes to wow audiences with his retro Latin vibes, and Quell’Fire, Andoria’s finest hair metal band. Trill’s Spotsy Music return to the contest again, hoping to make the third time a charm for a victory. The Federation Broadcasting Union (FBU) created the song contest in the aftermath of the Dominion War as a vehicle for unity and rebuilding connections after some of the darkest years in Federation history. Since its inception in 2386, the contest has been a roaring success, with hundreds of thousands of fans attending the event in person each year. The “Big Five” planets—Bajor, Betazed, Earth, Risa, and Vulcan—spearhead the contest’s organization and provide host planets with logistical and technological support, for which they are granted an automatic place in the grand final each year, along with the host. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the “Big Five” also hold the most wins—Betazed, Earth, and Risa have each won twice, while Bajor and Vulcan have each won once. No matter who is crowned the winner and host of the 2400 contest, there is little doubt that through unity and celebration, everyone can champion the ideals of the Federation and enjoy some great music, too. The post Pelios welcomes galaxy for Fedevision Song Contest 2399 appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  4. There is a legend on Emperion IV, of the “Maiden of the Stars”, an unnamed solider who vanquished their assailants from beyond the stars, and brought to them the power of spaceflight. We know this civilisation today as the Electorate of Emperion, a multi-stellar polity that borders the Federation to the galactic northwest. With tourism accounting for much of the Emperion economy, a new business has unveiled a unique starcruise. In introducing civilian slipstream travel, it has announced a new package centred on her footsteps, the elevation of the nameless soldier to a deified patron. Of course, I went on the cruise. Fourth Stop: Dantilas VI The Dantilas system is now a bustling colony world of the Dalarians, but four hundred years earlier it was an outpost, and one of the first acts of this ship was to raid it for ships and supplies. Also, to shortstop any more supplies sent to aid the invaders on their homeworld. A beautiful sapphire blue-amethyst world (in fact, the Dantilas system is often called ‘The Nine Brilliant Gems of Space’), the colony today has a memorial museum to the victims of the various invasions by the government of that era. Modern political analysts consider it, however, to be a pure piece of apologetica for the acts. However, as a member world of the Federation, relations have been normalized such that an Emperian company can travel. The results were said to be the best possible outcome – two attack ships were added to the fleet, and the attack base was destroyed. With the small fleet, they sought to continue their campaign to add allies and degrade their enemy’s ability to fight back. However, they learnt of a reinforcing fleet leading to our ultimate stop: Emperion IV, Memorial Station. The post Travelogue: The Maiden of the Stars – Dantilas VI appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  5. KETAR — A string of violent behaviour in the Shoals has increased among teenagers. The long-standing debate of the late 20th and early 21st century is back in the public eye as a resurgence of violent video games has caused the question, do such games cause violence? Terran games are back as popular as ever among young generations of multiple cultures. Parents are unable to prevent children from exchanging these games and underground distribution networks are in full force. Mekyo Glaghes, a Bajoran psychologist, who recently treated a few youths, has said, “Impressionable kids who play these types of games are still questioning what is right or wrong.” When asked if their behaviour changed, she said, “Time is relatively small but statistically reliable. The effect does exist. These types of games award the player on how many people they killed.” There are even reports of Klingons implementing these types of games in their fighting techniques. With the help of holographic technology, they can “live out” missions within the games and they will sacrifice an unwilling participant as an achievement. A string of serial murders on Karakka has not gone unnoticed, as the planet is closest to the Klingon Territory. Gran’an Woch, a Klingon diplomat, has come out and expressed his anger toward the accusations. “To say Klingons are just as weak-minded as your children brings no honour. The House of Ortolt will seek justice.” When asked to further explain himself, he huffed with enlarged eyes and stormed out of the interview. However, analysts performed thorough studies of such games and their effects to great length, especially prior to the nuclear winter of Earth and World War III prior to 2079. Psychologists have examined ancient and new evidence, reaching the conclusion that video games and holographic games do not incite violence. “We didn’t find any proof for it, across multiple games and multiple platforms,” explained Doctor Tikin Kea, from the University of Betazed. “Subjects appear to define realism from fantasy in such a way that the effects are negated.” Parents and authorities are seeking to ban the exchange of such video games in the near future. The Federation has yet to comment. The post Recent surge of centuries-old video games cause violence in the Shoals appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  6. PHLOXOPOLIS, ARCHER IV — Nearly 300,000 people on Archer IV’s sparsely populated southern continent lost power last week when a teenager modified a class 4 industrial replicator to replicate a slightly smaller replicator. The resulting systems overload snaked its way through the municipal infrastructure and caused nearly every computer terminal within an eighteen-kilometer radius to go dark almost instantaneously. The blackout disrupted transportation and essential services throughout the Greater Ho[...]own micropolitan area for a night and day before repair crews could restore power to the city and its outlying suburbs. “Boy howdy, it was scary,” said artisan potter Cal Franda, whose shop was one of many businesses impacted by the blackout. “I had a whole bunch of pieces in the kiln when the entire city went dark. Everything came out horribly underfired. It was such a mess.” Local police initially had difficulty identifying the culprit due to lack of access to the planetary law enforcement computer network. It wasn’t until the following day that they could begin a proper investigation. “The security recorders captured a suspicious person loitering around the industrial replicator facility on Enexowun Street,” said police constable Amelia McThrift. “This was our person of interest, but we couldn’t track their movements because of the blackout. We didn’t get a solid lead until an anonymous tipster called us two days later and led us to our man.” Police apprehended Jasper Myles, 19, outside Lirpa’s At Dawn, a Vulcan breakfast and brunch franchise where he works as a seating host. According to court documents filed at Ho[...]own Magistrate’s Court that day, Myles is charged with first-degree criminal mischief and interference with the delivery of public services. If convicted, he faces up to eleven years in prison. According to his associates, Myles, a 2398 graduate of Ho[...]own High School, had been planning to conduct an experiment into what he termed “perpetual replication.” “We all told him, ‘Jas, buddy, everybody knows you can’t replicate a replicator,’” said friend and co-worker Rubi Lacxe. “But he didn’t listen. He wanted to solve the problem of matter-energy entropy and prevent the heat death of the universe, or something.” After a ten-minute arraignment on Thursday, Myles was released on bail. Until the trial has concluded, he is prohibited from going within one hundred meters of a replicator, a restriction which the attorney unsuccessfully challenged. “How am I going to eat?” Myles said upon exiting the courtroom. The post Archer IV power grid fails after teenager attempts to replicate replicator appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  7. 5 more things to do in Bajor’s Kendra Province Last week, we gave you a list of five unique experiences in Kendra Province, Bajor’s best kept tourist secret. This week, we’re back with even more activities in this gem of Bajor’s southern hemisphere. Watch the moons rise over Baggas Lake Not all five Bajoran moons rise at the same time, but you have a good chance of seeing six moons if you spend the night by Baggas Lake, a few miles from Adarak. The three moons visible from Kendra Province and their reflection in the calm waters of the lake are stunning. Some say that there is no sight more beautiful to be found on all of Bajor – it certainly is a popular spot for couples to spend a tranquil evening stargazing. View the cosmos at Hes’manak Observatory Speaking of stargazing: if you’re interested in taking a closer look at the Bajoran system and its history, the Hes’manak Observatory and its adjoining museum are the place to go. The museum is home to Bajor’s oldest extant telescope: it is still in use, and upon request a museum guide will show you how to use it to look at the stars. Don’t forget to take a look at Deep Space Nine if you can! See a play at the Milintis Theatre Festival If you’re lucky enough to be in Kendra Province during the month of Ilrani, check out the Milintis Theatre Festival’s program: chances are you might be able to catch a play, an opera or a klaviata (a short story told by two singers accompanied by a klavion). This festival is renowned for its daring program and its willingness to give new, rising artists the chance to perform for large audiences, and most of Bajor’s popular musicians and actors have performed there at least once in their career. Shop the markets at Adarak Adarak is a smaller town in the Kendra Valley and it is home to a bi-weekly market famous in the entire province. Vendors from everywhere sell their wares there–from food to clothing to arts and crafts–and visiting the market will easily fill an entire day. Looking up from the marketplace you’ll see the Adarak monastery, one of Bajor’s oldest religious buildings still in use: parts of the monastery are open to visitors, including the ceremonial service hall and the gardens. Relive the past at Lortos City Provincial Library and Museum The provincial library and its adjoining historical museum are places for all to learn, not just about Bajoran and Kendran history, but also about Bajoran faith, languages and customs. They also offer free access to communications consoles and databases, assistance with administrative requests and paperwork, and cooking classes. The building itself is remarkable too: it combines local Kendran architectural techniques with decorative elements favoured in Hedrikspool Province, as it was commissioned by a Head of Council whose family was originally from Hedrikspool. Kendra Province is full of treasures, and you might find yourself wanting to see more after spending a day there. Every big city has its share of lodgings and accommodations that can be rented for longer stays – don’t forget to apply for temporary stay if you decide to stay for longer than a month. The post 5 More Things to Do in Kendra Province, Bajor appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  8. RASKOR IV — Police suspect foul play in the disappearance of Matteo Barana, former star center for the Raskor Giants. Raskor City Security descended upon Barana’s walled beachside villa in the early morning hours of Stardate 239907.06. The view from outside was the very image of peaceful serenity, which contrasted with the sheer chaos they found inside the home: ransacked memorabilia, smashed furniture, slashed door panels, and scattered clothing about the main bedroom. First responders found deep scoring consistent with a sharp blade along several surfaces in the villa’s grand kitchen area, up the staircase, and toward the main bedroom. The damage ominously hinted at a terrible and violent attack inside. Upon entering the bedroom, security officers found blood spatter upon the bed. Lieutenant Velshk, an officer with Raskor City Security, confirmed that the blood was Barana’s, but was quick to stress that they found no body on the property. “Our officers have scoured both the villa and its grounds,” said Velshk, “and I can officially confirm that there are no fatalities within this residence. Next question, please.” FNS reporters on Raskor IV have obtained security footage that reveals Kahl Shreth, an Andorian former teammate of Barana’s, entering the property before the security officers’ arrival, but the footage doesn’t show either Shreth or Barana leaving the property. Investigators have found no signs of phaser fire, suggesting all the damage was done by blade and by hand. Investigators did, however, uncover that a large sum of latinum was deposited into one of Shreth’s accounts a few hours before he was recorded entering the Barana villa. When asked, Velshk declined to state who initiated the payment. With the investigation ongoing, Raskor City Security has broadcast appeals to residents for any information they may have about the events at the Barana residence. They also reported that they are uncertain whether Barana’s wife and two children were present, as they had shuttle tickets to Starbase 118 the day before the incident. Last year, the Trinity City Eagles terminated contract negotiations with Barana after a recording surfaced of him allegedly making xenophobic comments about Shreth. The post Disgraced ice hockey star Matteo Barana missing, feared dead appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  9. Kendra Province, located in the planet’s southern hemisphere, is Bajor’s second most populated province, yet it is mostly disregarded by the millions that visit Bajor each year. Few Bajoran travel books aimed at off-worlders even mention destinations other than the capital city of Ashalla and Musilla Province, which draw the majority of travellers to this day. If you want to avoid the crowds, here are five things to see or do in Kendra Province, Bajor. Hike the B’Rula Mountains The B’Rula Mountains, and particularly Mount Jern, Bajor’s third-highest peak, are popular among Bajorans but not so much with visitors from other worlds. Several hiking trails have been planned out (these maps can be purchased in any city near the mountains), including some that will take you all the way to the top of Mount Jern. To make your journey simpler, you may rent a lopp in various regions. Give thanks at the Peldor Festival While this may be done everywhere on Bajor, each region has its unique customs surrounding this holiday. The Gratitude Festival is celebrated in Kendra Province by dancing all night, and street artists offer music for everyone to dance to in all major cities. The Festival’s local presider is expected to dance until the early morning hours, and stimulants in the form of beverages are frequently offered to the dancers. Explore exotic flora at Lortos City Botanical Gardens The Kendra Botanical Gardens are located on the premises of the Science and Agricultural Academy in Lortos City and are free to the public. The Botanical Gardens do not try to exhibit a curated selection of local flora and trees; rather, the Gardens serve as a vegetable and flower garden for everyone to enjoy, and it is maintained by Lortos City residents. Sign up for a horticulture lesson if you’re a Bajoran: the Academy’s students provide them for free as part of their curriculum. Sample the local hasperat Bajor’s most popular meal is interpreted differently in each location. Kendra’s hasperat is a spicier version of the Bajoran original, and the brine is created from kava roots, which are found across the Kendra Province. A glass of nekata juice on the side goes wonderfully with the Kendran hasperat. Float the Yolja River The Yolja River runs through the whole Kendra Valley, from its headwaters in the highlands all the way to the Mireil Sea. It is broad and deep enough to allow small ships to transit it downstream from Lar, and Lar Harbour serves as the starting point for regular boat cruises. There is no better way to see Kendra Province’s gorgeous and varied scenery than to float along the Yolja River with a chilled glass of kava juice and a comfy seat. Stay tuned next week for more exciting activities in Bajor’s best kept secret. This is a reader-submitted article. The post 5 Things to Do in Kendra Province, Bajor appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  10. There is a legend on Emperion IV, of the “Maiden of the Stars”, an unnamed solider who vanquished their assailants from beyond the stars, and brought to them the power of spaceflight. We know this civilisation today as the Electorate of Emperion, a multi-stellar polity that borders the Federation to the galactic northwest. With tourism accounting for much of the Emperion economy, a new business has unveiled a unique starcruise. In introducing civilian slipstream travel, it has announced a new package centred on her footsteps, the elevation of the nameless soldier to deified patron. Of course, I went on the cruise. Third Stop: Kavis III This was the Dalarian armoury in the region, which was half a day away at slipstream. Now it’s little more than wreckage and fragments of disruptor fire from ships that fired on it, preserved by the barren world’s Luna-class atmosphere. There was nothing except rubble and disruptor-lanced wreckage. While the Emperians were initially at a disadvantage, they were supported by another race, the Tarainians, who saw them as a vehicle to fight the Al’ar indirectly. Although modern historians regard this as revisionist romanticism, it is said that her speech was so powerful that it moved them to help her only based on feeling. “While they might have sympathised and admired someone so driven to save her world,” Kaliona Tarsonis, a history professor at the Dauntless Academy on Saniat IV, said when contacted, “the Tarainians would have seen this as a way to inexpensively stymie the Dalarians’ expansion at the time and potentially gain an ally.” Indeed, holodramas feature both the lecture and the scientific advisers training the warriors at the visitor’s centre on how to repair and operate their spaceship. Here, one of the legend’s peculiarities comes to mind. The identity and face of the solider are unknown, and she is simply seen as a brilliant silhouette. Only her gender is acknowledged by historians and those of us who attempt to emulate her. The post Travelogue: The Maiden of the Stars – Kavis III appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  11. From deep in the Beta Quadrant to the remote edges of the Shoals, here are the latest updates from the ships of the StarBase 118 fleet. Commodore Rajel returns after Orion Syndicate kidnapping STARBASE 104 – After their clandestine rescue mission, Commodore Jalana Rajel and her team returned to Starbase 104. They’re a little worse for wear, but they’re still alive. Several officers must adapt to new realities, trauma, and questions, as well as fresh new prosthesis. Crew of Excalibur-A relaxes post successful mission in Prime Directive aftermath DEEP SPACE 224 — Admiral Regillensis has been apprehended, and the Excalibur has returned to Deep Space 224 for rest, leisure, and repairs. What began as an undercover assignment on Demes II uncovered a slew of crimes committed by the Admiral, as well as his dubious intentions for sending the crew of the Excalibur in particular. Chin’toka crew parties at Shemsh Colony during well-earned shore leave SHEMSH COLONY — The USS Chin’toka’s crew had established an arrangement with the Shakani, a race of animals that worked as self-appointed protectors for the inhabitants of PTE-2891. Following that, the crew returned to the freshly built Shemsh Colony in the Par’tha Expanse’s Oscion Sector. Starbase 118 Ops crew rescues squirrel-like species from certain extinction STARBASE 118 OPS — Following the appearance of a reoccurring anomaly, the crew discovers a squirrel-like species trapped in the Jenatris cloud 106 years in the future. Away teams from the USS Juneau escape pirates under the cover of chaos XUNOV SYSTEM — The USS Juneau’s away teams worked on their escape after completing their specific objectives of retrieving the stolen artefact and freeing the prisoners. As a fire broke out in the adjoining warehouse, both squads got past market security. Second rally accident, science expo mishap, and a diplomatic crisis plague Amity Outpost BAROSSA SECTOR — The Imhotep racing team won the inaugural Antarian Class rally at Amity Outpost, while Klingon scientists almost brought the station to a standstill. A Federation outreach to Delta Quadrant species resulted in various dramas, yet it is still regarded as effective. USS Arrow heads to Sol Sector for Mission Debrief and R&R EARTH, SOL SECTOR — The crew of the USS Arrow (NCC-69829) was recalled to Earth by Starfleet Command after their harrowing ordeal at Mercia IV, in which half of the crew was quarantined after coming into contact with metagenic compounds engineered by the Sheliak, and the other half almost caught in a trap set by Breen bounty hunters. USS Arrow heads to Sol Sector for Mission Debrief and R&R EARTH, SOL SECTOR — The crew of the USS Arrow (NCC-69829) was recalled to Earth by Starfleet Command after their harrowing ordeal at Mercia IV, in which half of the crew was quarantined after coming into contact with metagenic compounds engineered by the Sheliak, and the other half almost caught in a trap set by Breen bounty hunters. Crew of the Gorkon escapes “nightmare” subspace rift TYRELLIAN SPACE — Trying to free the USS Triumphant (NCC-75692), and Vulcan merchant naval vessel, the Sasu Gol, the USS Gorkon (NCC-82293) itself also got trapped in a subspace rift. USS Thor recovered amidst discovery of New Dominion OKAEA RESEARCH OUTPOST — The USS Oumuamua has rescued nearly 500 survivors from the USS Thor from the surface of Okaea, as well as what remained of the Vesta class’s saucer and engineering sections. The post Starfleet Mission Updates: Stardate 239905 appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  12. SKRAL RIVER, QO’NOS – An independent farmer from Qo’NoS is filling the bellies of Federation citizens with a new brand of gagh. “A widely sought after version is our Green Gagh, which, as the name suggests, is fully organic,” Ratrass Gurn said while grabbing handfuls of the highly prized proteinous worms. “Our other strain is Black Gagh, a heritage breed, which has a more slippery texture and provides a good fight on the way down.” Gurn owns the growing farms and fisheries of Skral River Gagh, situated near the shores of the titular Skral River. They claim to supply everything needed to create a hearty meal from traditional gagh recipes. You would be forgiven for thinking that all gagh is the same, at least by a non-Klingon; the wriggling delicacy is not a popular menu item within the Federation. According to Gurn, his brand of torgud gagh is bred in the river itself, famous as the site of the last conflict between Kahless the Unforgettable and the hated tyrant Molar. Here it is infused with the warrior spirit that lives in the water, and bathed in the natural light of Qo’noS’ sun. A Ferengi enthusiast of torgud gagh, Sragg, runs a specialised transportation service alongside Skral River Gagh, ensuring the timely delivery of shipments around the Alpha Quadrant and guarantees unparalleled freshness. His organisation, Sragg Speciality Healthy Delivery, has also branched into the preservation market, providing customers with select equipment to store gagh in optimal conditions whether you are out and about, at home, or stationed in space. “Everyone should have the benefit of a healthy protein for breakfast, lunch and dinner,” Sragg enthused vigorously. “The need to keep gagh so fresh used to create significant challenges for anyone wishing to enjoy it on the road. It feeds my soul to see customers purchasing our specialised regulatory equipment to keep their gagh in perfect condition.” On investigation, it would appear that it is not only Sragg’s soul that is being fed by the market demand for a sustainable storage method. The units themselves reach prices that would make the richest of eyes widen. One preservation system is described as “the Enterprise of coolant tanks”; devoid of any synthetic material, it features integrated power regeneration and automated diagnostic cycles that maintain a continuous data uplink to your PADD, allowing you to keep a constant eye on the condition of your gagh. The gargantuan price tag for both the gagh and the techno-scientific devices has not diminished their popularity, and both companies are already experiencing record sellouts, due in particular to the passionate response from Klingon culinary masters looking to expand their range of high-quality goods while far from home. “You can obtain weak and limp gagh from industrial farms,” Klingon food expert Wopom K’tox advised. “I will swear on my ancestors that you cannot resist the wriggling delights of this niche market product.” The post Luxury gagh… in your pantry? appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  13. DEEP SPACE 224 — The Commercial Sector Merchants’ Association has appointed a special committee to gather input and develop recommendations for a lasting memorial to those who perished in the destruction of the USS Resolution (NCC-78145). “With a permanent memorial, we hope to remember those who lost their lives, honour those heroes who inspired us with their bravery, and provide a place of quiet reflection for those whose lives changed forever,” said Brooks Landry, proprietor of Babbling Brooks Spa and the chairperson of the committee. Destroyed in October 2398, the Resolution was a frequent visitor to Deep Space 224. Its crew, working to prevent Suliban extremists from hijacking a Genesis device, crashed the ship into a planetoid with the device aboard. Thirteen Resolution crew members lost their lives in the disaster, as well as one Starfleet Intelligence operative who had infiltrated the Suliban group. Within hours of the news reaching the station, residents, business owners, and crew erected a makeshift memorial in a vacant storefront on the promenade. Comprising thousands of flowers, cards, and other mementoes, the temporary memorial has since become the most visited site in the station’s commercial sector. “The outpouring of grief has been palpable,” said Subway Sam, Commercial Sector proprietor and secretary of the memorial committee. “We want to preserve as many of the donated items as possible and incorporate them into the permanent memorial.” The committee will hold monthly open forums to solicit opinions about the memorial’s location, appearance, and content. Those wishing to offer public comments may also submit them in writing before each forum. “We invite any person who was impacted by the destruction of the Resolution to take part in developing the memorial, whether or not you live on Deep Space 224,” said Landry. Station residents are largely in favour of a permanent memorial, which comes as little surprise given the frequency of the Resolution’s visits to Deep Space 224 and the close working relationships between the two crews. “I thought I lost someone very dear to me on that ship,” said security officer Lt. Tina Kuppasoop. “Sure, he survived, but many of his crewmates didn’t. Every time I walk by the temporary memorial, I am reminded of their sacrifice.” Initial proposals ranged from a plaque or obelisk installed on the promenade to setting aside a section of the garden in the station’s arboretum. The committee hoped to recruit some of the station’s Starfleet crew and Resolution survivors, to gain a wider diversity of input and to advise on the most appropriate tone for the project. The next open forum will take place next Friday at 1330 hours in the Conference Room on Deck 120. The post Planning for permanent USS Resolution memorial underway appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  14. From deep in the Beta Quadrant to the remote edges of the Shoals, here are the latest updates from the ships of the StarBase 118 fleet. USS Excalibur investigates possible Prime Directive violations on a pre-warp world DEMES II – The crew of the USS Excalibur (NCC-41903-A) has returned from undercover after detecting considerable technical and cultural contamination with Federation roots. Activity at Deep Space Nine wormhole increases following the disappearance of USS Thor OKAEA RESEARCH OUTPOST — Following two failed check-ins with Starfleet officials, the USS Thor (NCC-82607) was ordered to investigate the Okaea Research Outpost in the Gamma Quadrant. What appeared to be a milk run for the Vesta Class spaceship and its crew rapidly turned into a far more dangerous predicament. A scientific curiosity in the Jentaris Cloud results in the disappearance of the USS Rahuba JENATRIS CLOUD — The region was known for its chaotic activity and peculiar composition, and it held far too many bizarre events. The crew of Starbase 118 Ops was despatched on the USS Rahuba (NCC-70655) and the ship launched to investigate and get an insight into the peculiar anomaly when it disappeared into thin air. Commodore Jalana Rajel returns safely to the USS Constitution STARBASE 104 — The covert crew of the USS Constitution-B (NCC-9012-B) was worse for wear after infiltrating the Syndicate’s Boss’s stronghold. After establishing the whereabouts of Commodore Jalana Rajel, the senior officers divided into squads, each following Rajel in a smash-and-grab operation. While performing Search and Rescue operations, the USS Chin’toka makes contact with an unknown alien species PTE-2891 — One of the away teams from the USS Chin’toka (NCC-97187) vanished while researching a big deposit of reskarii, a natural deposit on the planetoid. The crew instantly went into search and rescue mode, sending another team to the surface, headed by Cmdr. Jaelyne Isa, to find the missing personnel. Deadly Breen/Sheliak alliance threatens the Alpha Isles MERCIA IV, ALPHA ISLES — Starfleet eliminated the Sheliak’s metagenic weaponry, but they uncovered a deadly new balance of power in the area. Crew of the Gorkon faces terror and horror in wake of Subspace Rift TYRELLIAN SPACE — The USS Gorkon (NCC-82293) suffered significant damage as a result of an explosion in the particle physics scientific lab, as well as hallucinations experienced by those on board. Juneau crew sneaks into a pirate-run black market in search of a stolen alien artefact USS JUNEAU — After verifying the stability of the USS Grace Hopper, the USS Juneau followed the pirates’ track to a moon-based outpost. This looked to hold a clandestine market, a warehouse, a tiny research centre, and a jail. Antarian Rally disrupted when the Kathesis Pact declares a blockade, racing vessel receives torpedo damage BAROSSA SECTOR — An interplanetary union and a torpedo have disrupted Amity Outpost’s first Antarian class rally. The rally was immediately halted, and racers were instructed to “stop in place.” Racing vessels were required to remain in their current location and await additional orders from race control. The race is yet to resume. The post Starfleet Mission Updates: Stardate 239904 appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  15. LAKARIAN CITY, CARDASSIA PRIME — Cardassian military and civilians alike are mourning the loss of Derryk Dresa, who daringly destroyed a weapons facility prior to the Jem’Hadar invasion in 2375. Dresa’s death comes just weeks before the twenty-third anniversary of the destruction of Lakarian City. The operation, shrouded in heavy secrecy for nearly ten years, was finally revealed in late 2384 and given the remembrance it deserved on its tenth anniversary. “While it was not a turning point for the established military supplies of the Dominion,” said Nirat Kalett, Press Secretary for the Detapa Council, “it aided in Cardassian liberation, was a rallying cry for freedom from Dominion rule, and should not be forgotten.” As part of Legate Damar’s Cardassian Liberation Front, Dresa and her team destroyed a munitions factory in the city of Lakat in a daring underground mission. Dresa survived to tell their story, albeit under the weight of eight hundred million dead friends, family, and colleagues. When interviewed in 2385 for the tenth-anniversary commemorations, Dresa said, “It was an incredible feat of courage on the part of our team. Without coming under fire, we slipped past the Dominion defences and caused the maximum amount of collateral damage in a short time. Sadly, the drawback was that we were too far from Lakarian City to aid our people [in the invasion].” Unable to reach the factory by conventional means, the team performed an orbital skydive from an atmospheric shuttlecraft, penetrating the defences of the heavily defended factory from above. Their orders were to destroy the composition materials and computer data core, taking out as many containers of fabricated devices as possible. “It was a last-minute decision, to take out the factory in one,” Dresa explained in the 2385 interview. “Originally, the plans were to ensure the data core was the first to go, but our explosives expert decided to expand the plan and use the plant against them.” How they escaped the explosion is an enigma that lingers twenty-three years after the daring act, as all surviving members of the team have remained silent out of respect to those who made it possible. In honour of the twenty-third anniversary of the destruction of Lakarian City, the Detapa Council has commissioned the Cardassian Institute of Art to develop the story into a holo-novel, with publication intended to coincide with the twenty-fifth anniversary in 2400. Speaking of the forthcoming holo-novel, Kalett said, “It is the hope of the Detapa Council that this small gesture, and more observances to come, will keep the memory of Lakarian City alive for generations.” The post Darryk Dresa, hero of Cardassian liberation, dead at 67 appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  16. SAN FRANCISCO, EARTH — Recent updates to PADD design have been minimal. At a single glance, it would be difficult to differentiate one model from the next. Compared to previous iterations boasting large changes to the design and experimental ideas, this shift in production has been a big change. Developers have largely focused newer releases on using stronger, longer-lasting components and improving functionality rather than innovative concept testing. For some, this has been an advantage. Sassiv, the writer of a Vulcan technology news site, is quoted as saying, “Outward appearances make little difference in PADD performance. The ergonomic design is suited to both long hours of work and travel convenience. The continued focus on improving upon materials and user interface has been a noted improvement in PADD performance.” However, this is not the case for all consumers. While some, like Sassiv, have enjoyed the focus on more intimate changes, some are left longing for the days of the ever-changing PADD. One year, a complete touch screen with minimal buttons. The next is experimental holographic display prototypes. “I have a PADD from each of my symbiont’s lives,” says Biarzi Mezig, a Trill Symbiont host. “For me, collecting them has become a novelty. Earlier models are so easily distinguished from one another and speak to all of our histories. It’s disappointing to see less risk-taking.” More of a point of contention than expected, many sites have taken to more closely monitoring their comments and forums amid these discussions. And while debate flares up in tech circles across the quadrant, pre-orders for the new model have spiked as it brought attention to the subject. It seems regardless of controversy, everyone loves a fresh PADD. If you’re looking to purchase one of these new models yourself, you can expect improved memory up to 200 kiloquads, a sturdier outer casing, an improved Subspace Transceiver Assembly, and an update to the LCARS operating system that will improve efficiency. All previous model owners can expect a scheduled update to their compatible devices in the coming weeks before launch. The post New PADD Release Images Spark Debate Among Tech Enthusiasts appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  17. From deep in the Beta Quadrant to the remote edges of the Shoals, here are the latest updates from the ships of the StarBase 118 fleet. Vidiian ship attacked as Delta Quadrant inhabitants object to their presence at Science Expo BAROSSA SECTOR – At Amity Outpost in the Delta Quadrant, Ambassador Rivi Vataix is dealing with her first diplomatic crisis. The “Kathesis Pact,” a stellar alliance of Mislenites, Nygeans, and Pensarkans, has filed an official protest with the Federation Diplomatic Corp against Vidiians’ attendance at Amity’s impending science exhibition. Gamma Quadrant Okaea Research Outpost silenced; Thor investigates OKAEA RESEARCH OUTPOST — The Okaea Research Outpost recently missed two obligatory check-in reports and has not replied to communication attempts. A Federation presence was dispatched to investigate, as is the customary policy in similar situations. Shake Up in the Sheliak Corporate could mean war for the Federation ALPHA ISLES – MERCIA IV — The Sheliak have initiated plans to use metagenic weapons on the trading planet of Mercia IV. Starfleet responds. Officers on Starbase 118 enjoy much needed shore leave, ending with a scientific curiosity STARBASE 118 OPS – After Terra Prime left both physical and mental wounds on those who tried to stop them, crew members were given additional time to recuperate and ponder. Triumphant and Sasu Gol found adrift in space, Gorkon investigates TYRELLIAN SPACE — Tracking the escape pod containing sole survivor Mort Halat through the reported Subspace Rift has left the USS Gorkon facing two ships adrift and seemingly derelict. Chin’toka searches for missing officers on planet PTE-2891 during reskari investigation PTE-2891 — The USS Chin’toka (NCC-97187) sent two away teams to the planet’s surface to investigate the reskari sediment, which is a natural deposit on the planetoid. One of the away teams, headed by LtCmdr. Kasil Kesex, vanished from the surface. Starfleet dispatch Excalibur to research Demes II expedited scientific growth DEMES II – The expedition, which will last around three months, will look into a sudden and exponential increase in Demes’ technical prowess and assess whether it is the product of an outside influence. New findings reveal Constitution crew have rapidly diminishing time to save their Commodore ORINOCO BETA — Syndicate crime bosses have imminent plans to forcibly separate host and symbiont under the guise of removing Commodore Jalana Rajel’s ‘parasite’, unconcerned with the wellbeing of either. Following pirate raid, Juneau rushes to the Grace Hopper’s aid RING 42 — Shortly after the Juneau left Ring 42 for their next operation, they received a distress signal from the USS Grace Hopper, claiming that they had been assaulted by pirates who had managed to breach their shields. The post Starfleet Mission Updates: Stardate 239903 appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  18. EARTH, SOL SYSTEM — Citizens from all over the Federation arrived on Earth this weekend to celebrate the commencement of the new F1 Shuttle Racing season (2398/99), which began with the season’s first race at New Berlin, Luna. The return of the high-octane sport was celebrated during the inaugural ceremony, which included the reveal of the new FX-4000 racing engine, a magnificent fly-by of the racing pods, a meet and greet with famous pilots, and a talk by Tario D’Ronda, President and CEO of F1 Shuttle Racing. The 2399 season will include 19 races around the Federation, including two completely fresh courses at Vistari Prime and the charity race Mars Memorial Race. The MMR was approved this year in order to raise awareness and cash for the Utopia Planitia tragedy, which continues to affect the whole Federation. “We’re pleased to include the Mars Memorial Race on the calendar this season to bring people together even years after the disaster,” said President D’Ronda. “And to increase awareness in order to continue the cleansing of our lovely world. F1 is committed to conservation and hopes to generate enough capital to aid in the restoration efforts of Mars.” Mek’tor, a famous Klingon pilot known for his aggressive flying and controversy in last year’s Andoria Grand Prix when he pushed rival racer Therin Gonala into the ice sheets, losing him the race, was also present. Fans are looking forward to seeing this heated personal rivalry conclude on the Qo’noS circuit at the invitation of the Klingon Embassy. The ceremony concluded with a tour of the shuttle hangars, where aspiring racers and spectators alike could try out simulated races on the holodecks, even receiving personalised advice from their favourite racers at the end. The Risa Grand Prix kicks off the 2399 season on Stardate 239903.27 and runs until 239908.17. The post F1 Circuit prepares for new Shuttle Racing Season appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  19. There is a legend on Emperion IV, of the “Maiden of the Stars”, an unnamed solider who vanquished their assailants from beyond the stars, and brought to them the power of spaceflight. We know this civilisation today as the Electorate of Emperion, a multi-stellar polity that borders the Federation to the galactic northwest. With tourism accounting for much of the Emperion economy, a new business has unveiled a unique starcruise. In introducing civilian slipstream travel, it has announced a new package centred on her footsteps, the elevation of the nameless soldier to deified patron. Of course, I went on the cruise. Second Stop: Emperion XVI, low orbit The Emperion system, a binary star system, is one of the few having more than 15 planets. This planet, a frigid frozen dwarf on the fringes of the dimmer star, was where they first sought refuge while they attempted to comprehend the spacecraft and hide from the two ships in orbit. Some rusting relics of their attempts to comprehend the spacecraft may be seen here, as well as a rifle and sword memorial on the northern continent, where the survivors pledged they would find a means to preserve their homeworld. The voyage here was made possible by sublight engines, and one among the sights you get to view is Emperion IX, a gas giant with an impressive ring system. It also has its own livable moon, which was one of the Emperion Electorate’s initial colonies. The ship scheduled it just so that you could see the twin dawn through the rings, lighting it up in shimmering red and violet fire before the moon’s atmosphere appeared in a spectacular halo of light – a sight I will never forget. Look out for our next instalment as we journey through Emperion IV. The post Travelogue: The Maiden of the Stars – Emperion XVI appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  20. STARBASE 118 — The Federation Archaeology Council has convened an emergency session to determine the fate of the Obruli III terraforming project, after a survey team discovered ruins suggesting the uninhabited planet was once home to a civilization. Obruli III is located in the Borderlands, a region of unclaimed territory where Federation, Klingon, and Romulan space collide. The Borderlands, which are sparsely inhabited and poorly documented, are a shelter for opportunistic traders and privateers who utilise the region’s three enormous nebulae as cover for illegal operations. Because of the Borderlands’ political instability and closeness to worlds like Regulus and Risa, the Federation has recently increased its presence there, most notably with the assignment of the USS Resolution (NCC-78145) to the region in mid-2397. “Terraforming Obruli III is a win-win for the Federation,” said Federation Security Council Secretary Haros Chenta. “Using the planet to test new terraforming technology serves our scientific objectives. Furthermore, a Federation colony would offer much-needed stability and controlled trade to a very volatile region, as well as increased protection for our member worlds along our space’s boundary.” In the late 2380s, the Federation Science Council identified Obruli III as a potential terraforming site, but the government of former president Nan Bacco put those plans on hold, first temporarily following the Gateway Crisis of 2390, then indefinitely following the Federation Transport Union strike two years later. In 2393, Narala, Bacco’s successor, resurrected the Obruli project as part of her campaign promises called the “era of action.” The Federation Science Council performed preliminary research in 2395, and the following year, with the support of the Starfleet Corps of Engineers, built a temporary facility on Obruli III’s moon. The Council had planned for a team of specialists to begin atmospheric seeding later this month, but the discovery of ruins has forced the initiative to be halted once more. Dr. Marcus Brody, professor of archaeology at Marshall College on Earth, described the find as “far from a scrap of clay pottery or a single tool handle. The survey team discovered a treasure trove of artefacts from a civilization we had no idea existed.” Brody visited to Obruli III as part of an independent research group last month to follow up on the survey team’s results. When he returned to Starbase 118, he stated that continuing with the terraforming project would be “an irreparable cultural loss for the Federation, indeed, the galaxy.” Terraforming is a contentious topic in the Federation. Proponents believe that it generates new viable worlds and expands Federation control, while opponents argue that it causes irreversible geological and ecological changes. Terraform Command, the Federation’s governing authority for terraforming initiatives, demands that candidate worlds be lifeless and that no life would spontaneously emerge on the planet without outside involvement. The discovery of ruins on Obruli III, which Terraform Command had previously reviewed and authorised for development in 2394, raised doubt on the planet-vetting procedure. “If only every error could happen once,” Brody added. “Who knows how many civilizations’ history have already been lost as a result of terraforming?” This week, the Archeology Council will convene on Starbase 118 to hear testimony from both sides of the argument. The Obruli III terraforming project is presently on hold pending a decision from the Archaeology Council. The post Unearthed ruins jeopardise terraforming project appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  21. ASHALLA DISTRICT — Taase Ripre, a tetraball legend who died over a year ago, has earned another another distinction. Earlier last week, a trading card featuring Taase’s face sold for a record 1.5 million bars of gold-pressed latinum at an auction in the Bajoran capital, shattering the record for the highest price ever paid for a tetraball collector’s card.The artwork on the gold-edged card with silver writing depicts Taase amid her Varan Vipers teammates holding up the Trinity Sector Challenge Cup, her 14th cup final triumph. With just 92 ever printed, the card is hailed a collector’s holy grail, so it’s not unexpected that someone wants to spend such a large sum of latinum to obtain it. The 92 Taase victory cards were printed exclusively for Varan Vipers players and staff, the ball club’s archive, and select tetraball officials, and were never distributed as part of the regular season’s trading card collection. An original is also on display in the Tetraball Hall of Fame, along with Taase’s cup-winning jersey. The buyer’s name is unknown, but the seller, Aaholb Tedu, was delighted to chat with us after the auction ended. “I can’t believe it sold for so much!” Aaholb said. “I assumed it was worth something, but 1.5 million?” Following the auction, Aaholb stated his intention to donate half of the proceeds to much-needed renovations to the Vipers’ training grounds. Taase will be remembered by Tetraball fans around the Federation for the more than 20 league titles she won during her illustrious career, including 11 Trinity Sector Champions League medals. Taase served as a tetraball ambassador both at home and abroad, and was essential in the formation of the Interstellar Tetraball Federation (ITF). Despite her failing health, she championed the sport, and tetraball players and fans from both quadrants grieved her passing last year at the age of 109. The post Taase Ripre still breaking records posthumously appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  22. From deep in the Beta Quadrant to the remote edges of the Shoals, here are the latest updates from the ships of the StarBase 118 fleet. Federation establishes a sanctuary for space-borne organisms in Delta Quadrant BAROSSA SECTOR – The United Federation of Planets continued its tradition of diplomacy and peace with non-Federation species, this time with the Hawlat in the Delta Quadrant. Constitution Crew undercover to save Commodore Rajel onboard Romulan Ra’khoi STARBASE 104 — The crew of the USS Constitution-B (NCC-9012-B) is now onboard their pre-Hobus Romulan Bird of Prey Ra’khoi, which is making its way to where the team believes Commodore Jalana Rajel is imprisoned. USS Juneau investigates Borg wreckage on the pre-warp planet of Anadasa ANADASA — The crew of the USS Juneau (NX-99801) divide and conquer after discovering Borg debris on the planet’s surface, a bizarre cult in the local population centre, and an abandoned Cardassian moonbase. Evacuation of USS Arrow leads to a startling discovery of strange new life THE “MIDNIGHT” PLANET – CHI CETI SYSTEM – The crew of the Arrow (NCC 69829) sought sanctuary on the jungle world known only to them as The “Midnight” Planet after being forced to leave the ship. Because of its peculiar spinning axis, it spends over three weeks at a period in complete darkness. Gorkon resides in Utopia Planitia spacedock for upgrades and ceremonies SOL SYSTEM — The USS Gorkon (NCC-82293) is in spacedock at Utopia Planitia, and the ship’s crew is wrapping up their shore vacation with a celebration following their recent award ceremony. USS Thor mediating in a thousand-year-old war SORACH SYSTEM, DELTA QUADRANT — The USS Thor (NCC-82607) mediated discussions between ancient warring cultures transported forward in time after uncovering a giant cosmozoan capable of manipulating time. Final repairs made to the Chin’toka as creation of Shemsh Colony underway SHEMSH IV — The Chin’toka (NCC-97187) crew worked diligently to help the colonists in constructing the colony’s foundation and essential structures, which were nearing completion. Crew of USS Excalibur swaps ships, then bodies THE BORDERLANDS — An encounter with unknown intelligence on Cytaris V has transplanted the Excalibur crew’s consciousnesses into the bodies of their coworkers. Ops Crew unable to wrestle Miranda VII from Terra Prime STARBASE 118 OPS — Several teams from Ops Staff have been despatched to deal with the terrorist organisation that has claimed Miranda VII as its new head of operations. The post Starfleet Mission Updates: Stardate 239901 appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  23. GROOF – The Ferengi Commerce Authority has dissolved the local administration on Groof after the colony’s experiment with currency substitutes nearly destroyed its economy. FCA Liquidator Brector presented the Governor of Groof with a writ of accountability yesterday, effectively suspending the planet’s political and economic autonomy. The FCA is now investigating the colony’s alleged adoption of silver-pressed caesium latnide as a substitute for gold-pressed latinum, the standard legal tender throughout the Ferengi Alliance. Currency substitutes are illegal under Ferengi law. “Groof is located far from Ferenginar, not along any major trade routes,” said Brector. “Late last year, they experienced a shortage of gold-pressed latinum, placing a strain on the local economy.” The writ alleges that Groof’s business leaders attempted to increase the money supply by converting the planet’s dwindling stockpiles of latinum into caesium latinide, then pressing the metal into silver instead of gold. The quantity of latinum in one gold-pressed bar can create twelve bars of the silver-pressed substitute. Despite initial success, the vast increase in the money supply quickly resulted in hyperinflation. “The experiment was an unmitigated failure,” said Brector, “and it has brought the once thriving economy of Groof to its knees.” Over the past six months, Groof has experienced increasing shortages of both durable and perishable goods, and as the value of the substitute currency plummeted, colonists’ life savings became worthless. “This is quite common in currency-based economies,” said Dr. Xemba of the Faculty of Historical Economics at the University of Budapest. “Creating more money doesn’t change the amount of goods. With more money in people’s pockets available to buy the same amount of goods, prices will inevitably go up.” According to Brector, Groof responded by creating even more of the substitute currency, allowing the inflation problem to spiral out of control. In the month prior to the FCA’s intervention, unemployment on Groof had risen to over 60%. “Groof isn’t the first economy to have suffered from hyperinflation,” said Xemba. “But Ferengi society lacks the safeguards and controls that have historically allowed other economies to fix the problem.” There may be political as well as economic fallout to come. The FCA has the power to revoke the business license and freeze the assets of any Ferengi business owner found to have violated the Rules of Acquisition or broken a contract. “Groof is small,” said Xemba. “If the FCA intends to prosecute everyone involved in the currency scheme, there may not be enough people left for the colony to remain viable.” The post Currency experiment wreaks economic havoc on Ferengi colony appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  24. BOLARUS IX – The host of the popular holoseries Bolian Cooking with Pelall has released a new cookbook hoping to recreate traditional Bolian dishes while using meat that is more palatable to non-Bolians. Pelall has enchanted and enticed the tastes of old and emerging admirers with a magnificent reentry into a pantheon of unique meals from her new holoseries, departing from the usual aged and fermented meat cuisine the Bolian homeworld is renowned for. Pelall’s fastidious attention to detail has resulted in some of the most unusual dishes to suit a wide range of preferences, and this looks to be only the tip of the iceberg. The Bared Bolian, an expressive collection of novel techniques and approaches that allow non-Bolians to cook traditionally without upsetting the delicate balance of the bowel’s microbiota, is the culmination of this enormous endeavour. Fans of the series have reacted well to the new book, with an unexpected uptake among Ferengi villages, where partially rotting meat is likely to be substituted for the grubs and slugs of a traditional Ferengi cuisine. “We’ve witnessed an increase in the number of subscribers to our series from viewers we didn’t expect,” a humbled Pelall observes, with a soft chuckle and a thick accent. “The popularity of Bolian food has skyrocketed, which was a major motivator for presenting our culinary pleasures to the non-Bolian palate. Our tomato and shimmershell soup has everyone going crazy!” Pelall reveals that Bolian cuisine is different and diversified in its approach to cooking, as seen by her offbeat interpretations of old but underutilised dishes. She attributed her passion for crafting food to her late co-father, and she presented some of her homeworld’s diverse range of creative cuisine from throughout their globe, with a joyful grin. “Arinol, our undersea colony in the southern hemisphere, provides heaps of fiery fish and shellfish, all with a syrupy cream foundation,” she stated as she served a delectable risotto combined with Andorian shaysha insects. “On Rasara, people of Bokitu are known for their meat meals, rich stews, and heavy butterfats oozing with juice. I hope I’ve whetted your appetite for the potential of being able to recreate some of these delectable delicacies for your own preferences.” The new cookbook will be published in the coming months, and subscribers to the holoseries will receive an extract from the upcoming The Bared Bolian: Desserts issue. “What is the purest of joys if not sharing a meal with your friends and family? Go with love.” Roasted Sweet Tomato and Jhafre Soaked Andorian Shaysha Beetle Risotto “Bolian tomatoes are some of the sweetest you’ll find,” Pelall stated as he diced some and passed a bit to this reporter. “Normally, I’d make this using fermented Bolian shimmershell, but it’s just as delicious with that gorgeous crunch from the shaysha beetle.” Ingredients: 4 large Bolian Tomatoes. 1 large handful of Shaysha Beetles, with the shell. Preferably deceased by natural causes. Do not use live beetles. 1 large bottle of Tenaran Jhafre ale. Uncorked. 5 tbsp of Rovim Mountain Salt. 2 Litres of organic stock; Bolian herring is recommended. Open windows. Onions. Plural. 3 handfuls of Riskian cheese. 9 handfuls of risotto rice. Replicated to taste. First, taste the jhafre ale to ensure that it is of high quality. Take a big mixing basin and add the beetles to it. Make certain they are dead. Soak for at least a week. To be sure, double-check the jhafre ale’s quality. Bolian tomatoes should be finely diced. Dice again if you’re not sure whether it’s comprehensive enough. Cook the risotto according to my previous recipe, which can be found in Episode 23 of our holoseries. Grind the beetles until they have a breadcrumb texture. Try not to come into prolonged contact with the skin. Mix in the beetle until the risotto is a rich black colour. Continue to combine. If beetles become trapped in the mixer, do not try to remove them with your fingers. Serve with sugar and Bolian nectar (available from my personal replicator menu.) The post Bolian chef Pelall releases a Federationized cookbook of Bolian cuisine appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
  25. There is a legend on Emperion IV, of the “Maiden of the Stars”, an unnamed solider who vanquished their assailants from beyond the stars, and brought to them the power of spaceflight. We know this civilisation today as the Electorate of Emperion, a multi-stellar polity that borders the Federation to the galactic northwest. With tourism accounting for much of the Emperion economy, a new business has unveiled a unique starcruise. In introducing civilian slipstream travel, it has announced a new package centred on her footsteps, the elevation of the nameless soldier to deified patron. Of course, I went on the cruise. First Stop: Emperion IV, Al’kharian Highlands, Sitovaze This metropolis, destroyed in the Terran year 1997, was one of the Emperion Army’s last outposts against the stellar invaders. The only warning had been the loss of the early Information Age satellite network, as well as orbital bombardment of the army of the still-fragmented government. For years, the army’s outnumbered and under-equipped forces had turned to asymmetric combat, which they were still losing. Sitovaze, previously a spiritual and scholarly retreat known as the City of Mountaintop Wisdom, was one city that was initially spared. However, the bombardment craters from orbital kinetic interdiction, as well as the dozens of disruptor and railgun fire, are clearly visible. The journey begins in a damaged college, where you can see a rail embedded in a giant electronic board embedding a smashed lectern; the remains of hastily abandoned study materials; and destroyed power armour and cars around. While the original remains of the deceased have been removed, several replicas have been erected, and as I followed the guide, I couldn’t help but believe that this memorial was a macabre elegy of all that was lost. The focal point of this stop is a wrecked spacecraft from which we learned the name of the attackers. The Dalarians are a name recognisable to those of us who have researched our ancestors. It’s also the ship that the rest of the soldiers hijacked… and on to the next place. Look out for our next instalment as we journey through Emperion IV. The post Travelogue: The Maiden of the Stars – Al’kharian Highlands appeared first on Federation News Service. View the full article
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