RPG Campaign Tour Challenge 2026 - DAY 17

Day 17-Can you tell us about any famous battles or wars?

"Once again we're looking back into the history of this area of space. 'Knowledge of the past informs the present' one might say. Thankfully I've had a great deal more time to research this subject, as well as briefings as part of recent missions impacted by these historical events.

I am happy to pass on what I've learned..."

The Earth-Romulan War

A four year long conflict between the space navies of the United Earth and the Romulan Star Empire that occurred (roughly) one hundred year ago (prior to the first time its mentioned in our campaign*).

Approximately a year before the start of the war, the United Earth and its allies formed a loose alliance known as the Coalition of Planets. When Romulus declared war on Earth, the other members of the Coalition agreed to lend aid but they would not engage the Romulans in direct combat.

In the later half of the war, Earth received increased assistance from these allied worlds, with additional ships supplied by the Andorian Imperial Guard. Earth eventually handed the Romulans a humiliating defeat, the war culminating at the Battle of Cheron. (Yes, that Cheron). With the Earth-Romulan War concluded, the Coalition of Planets moves to become the United Federation of Planets. Among the UFP's first acts is to establish the Neutral Zone between themselves and the Romulan Empire. 

The entire war was fought by opposing starships in space and communications were by subspace radio, audio only. It wasn't until an incident involing Captain James T. Kirk and the USS Enterprise (Constitution Class, NCC-1701) in 2266 that Starfleet and the Federation had visual confirmation of the Romulans' appearance and connection to the Vulcans.

Emblems of the United Earth (Top),

The United Earth Space Probe Agency - 22nd Century (Bottow Left)

The United Earth Space Probe Agency Starfleet - Late 22nd to Mid 23rd Century (Bottom Right)

The Battle of Dinom II 

Near the end of the war, the Romulans received intelligence on a previously unknown strategic target and launched a small fleet to take out said target. Learning that the intel on their hidden base had been leaked, the United Earth Space Probe Agency Fleet sent out a group of ships to prevent the Romulans from reaching their destination.

The two fleets met at Dinom II, a tidally locked planet constantly baked by its blue-white giant star, making the world terribly hot and barely Class M. The battle was short but brutal, with every ship involved being destroyed. No survivors to anyone's knowledge. Vessel wreckages and other debris is scattered across the surface of the planet's North Eastern hemisphere (Please reference the DAY 7 log entry for additional information of Dinom II). 

While on a diplomatic mission, the Prosperity's captain, members of the command crew, and a few others crashed landed on the planet. Using their survival skills, mechanical and technical knowledge, and sheer determined resourcefulness, the team was able to salvage enough components and make their way to a spacewreck with a repairable communication array/distress beacon. Additionally, there was some evidence that a couple of Romulans may have survived some time on the surface before falling victim to native fauna. 

The Ectair Campaign

A series of battles during the final month of the Earth-Romulan War in which the Earth forces fought to take the Ectair Sector, a major source of economic strength and stability for the Romulan Empire. With the help of the Andorian Imperial Fleet, Earth was able to gain control of the many worlds within the sector, including Ectair itself, capital of region. 

Ectair was the largest producer of Romulan Ale outside of Romulus itself and losing it was not only an economic loss but it also lowered the morale of both the Empire's common citizens and many of its fighter forces. Before the Siege of Ectair, the Romulan people were behind the war with all their hearts and minds but after...well...not so much. Things continued to fall downhill for the Romulans from that point forward, leading - as noted above - to a final defeat at the Battle of Cheron. 

When the war was over and the UFP was being established, Earth's leaders and diplomats offered many of the worlds in this area, what is the Tango-8 and especially Tango-9 sectors today, to the Andorians for colonization and development. As noted previously, the Ectair System became Mozinphar's Star and the same soil so perfect for raising the blue grains used in Romulan Ale were repurposed for the blue barley in Andorian Ale. 

The Vault War - The Khelayan-UFP War

The Siege of Khelaya 

After numerous small but intense engagements across the Coreward-Trailing areas of the Sierra Super Sector (mostly in Sectors Sierra-10, 11, and 12), Starfleet approved Captain Anne Fletcher's plan to take the fight directly to Khelaya in an attempt to access their command center known as 'The Vault'.

Khelaya (Rura Kel IV) and 'The Vault', Vault Mountain, Mid-Northern Hemisphere.

Even with their Janissary/Precursor boosted weapons and defenses, and a greater number of ships, the Khelayans were no match for the superior experience, tactics, and overall quality of Starfleet's squadron, with Captain Fletcher serving a Fleet Captain for the operation. 

Starfleet Vessels of Operation: Safecracker

While the Janissary technology was quite powerful, the Khelayan ships themselves were largely refurbished Klingon, Orion, and Federation civilian vessels, many in poor repair or outdated. Additionally, when Commander Solok used the psychic 'virus' passed on to him by the Vulcan Su, all that amazing Janissary equipment destroyed itself, rendering the Khelayan's advantage null and void.

Khelayan Fleet defends Khelaya from the Federation's 107th Fleet. 

The Continuous War of Garadius IV

Not a single war but the collective name given to the regularly reoccurring military conflicts between the two governments that share the fourth planet in the Garadius System. Of course 'share' isn't exactly the right word.

(L) Garadius Authority of Might  and  (R) Genius Council Garadius

For over two hundred years the two nations of Garadius, The Garadius Authority of Might and The Genius Council of Garadius, have challenged each other at every turn and can not agree on...well...anything. Occasionally...Often....this drives them to come to blows. The GAM wins nearly every ground combat purely by their physical prowess. The GCG wins anytime the conflict becomes a question of tactics or superior gear. 

The United Federation of Planets has an interest in Garadius for a number of reasons. For one thing, the system is strategically located within a parsec of the Romulan Neutral Zone. For another, Garadius is an excellent source of the ingredients of Vitaimpenicil, a very powerful broad-spectrum antibiotic. As Garadius is a warp capable society, it is likely that either the UFP will make peace overtures to the planet or one or both of the governing bodies will call the Federation in as arbiters between them. 

"Next, one of my favorite subjects...travel and how you do it?"

*This entry details some of the biggest differences between established canon from the Star Trek episodes and films and 'My Star Trek Universe'. 

Specifically, the canon history and details of the Earth-Romulan War, the early formation of the Coalition of Planets, the UFP, etc., are definitely not the same as they are in my campaigns. I tried to stay as close to official canon as possible but where I needed to make adjustments I did.     

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Barking Alien

RPG Campaign Tour Challenge 2026 - DAY 16

Day 16-Are there any direct threats?

"For this next entry I decided to consult with two of Starfleet Security's best and bravest [in my humble opinion]; officers I consider not only colleagues but friends. A professional and heartfelt thank you to Lt. Sierra Lynn Tall Trees and Lt. M'Hara for consulting with me on this subject."

(L) Lt. Tall Trees, Chief of Security, USS Prosperity

(R) Lt. M'Hara, Former Assistant Chief of Security, USS Prosperity

Current Chief of Security, USS Persistence

Confirmed Threats

The Kzinti Patriarchy

Lt. Tall Trees: "The Kzinti, also known as the Kzin, are a species of humanoid, feline-like, intelligent carnivores with parasol/scalloped ears, a stooped posture, digitigrade legs, and long thin tails. Their culture is highly aggressive with a complex system of personal honor not unlike that of the Klingons. They are a male dominated society whose female are said to be 'barely sentient' and as such they greatly underestimate the female members of the species they meet. 

Emblem of the Kzinti Patriarchy in 2276

Beginning roughly seventy-five years ago, the Kzinti Patriarchy and the Earth fought in four wars commonly referred to as the Kzinti Wars. The Kzin lost every one of them. As the political, social, and economic connection between Earth and the other members of the Coalition of Planets solidified, the entire council arbitrated the Kzinti's surrender following the final conflict about 50 years ago. As per the Treaty of Sirius, the Kzinti were completely disarmed but allowed to maintain their own internal police force and ships for the purpose of trade and emergencies. 

Unfortunately, groups of Kzin privateers have attempted to circumvent the Treaty and obtain weapons and defenses capable of returning their species to 'its former glory'. As recently as five years ago, a large group of Kzinti in league with the Patriarchy government stole and reverse-engineered weapons technology that belong to the First Federation. They used this to attack the nearby colony established by the female-led Kasheeta Matriarchy. While the Kasheeta held their own for a while, they eventually requested the assistance of the UFP and Starfleet, who sent in the USS Prosperity. After then Chief of Security Lt. Commander Carr implants false information into a Starfleet Monitor Outpost the Kzin have 'bugged', the Prosperity and Kasheeta are able to lure the Kzinti into a trap and their forces are defeated. 

The Treaty of Sirius, Updated Monitor Stations, regular Starfleet Patrols...all great ways to insure the Kzinti don't rebuild their military and try to get too big for their britches once again. But they will. They're going to try. They have a history of being sore losers and I don't see that changing anytime in the near future. 

Depowered or not, I still recommend viewing them as an active threat." 

The Orion Pirates of Tango Sector

Ensign Shae:

"These are the Blue Orions, or OR-ee-ans as they chose to pronounce it, that the Prosperity began encountering once attached to Deep Space 4 and started exploring the Tango-8 and Tango-9 Sectors. 

Emblem of The Orions of Tango Sector in 2276

Consumate scoundrels, pirates, scavengers, and raiders who often appear to be proud of such titles. These Orions are an alliance of separate colonies and numerous starships all operated under the same banner.

Whether or not they desire to be recognized as a single political power is actually unclear but we've already seen evidence that many of their forces are affiliated and allied. A group of three Orion vessels encountering an opposing starship will move away, only to return with additional ships for reinforcement. 

At present, their long term goals and objectives remain unclear beyond continued piracy, 'claim-jumping' salvages, and other interstellar crimes. They appear to be operating more like the Orion Syndicate than a true 'fleet', little more than starfaring organized crime.

That said, their 'Raider Class' starships have engaged Starfleet vessels in direct combat, establishing themselves as a hostile force representing a hostile entity, regardless of the actual structure of their government, military, or lack thereof. " 

The Romulan Star Empire

Lt. M'Hara: "The Romulan Star Empire may very well be our (the UFP's) most competent and competitive rival. Like us, they explore, research, trade, and enforce their borders will military might when necessary. To that end, I can respect them.

However...that's where it ends.

Emblem of the Romulan Star Empire in 2276

What makes them different from the Federation is we're generally exploring to gain knowledge that will help improve the lives of our citizens. Every citizen. We use force to protect lives and prevent incursions by hostile beings. We don't try to conquer, we don't use knowledge only to benefit the wealthly and powerful, and we make friends, not subjects or serfs. 

*A grim smirk crosses her lips* That's a pretty key [Cygnetian Expletive - Can Not Translate] difference in my book. 

What prevents us, the Federation and the Romulans, from constantly butting heads at every turn? Very little I'm sorry to say. Yes, there is the Neutral Zone. We have amazing Sensors watching them. They have Cloaking Devices to sneak past us. We have Photon Torpedoes. They have Plasma Torpedoes. It's a race, a challenge, a struggle to see who can tear down the wall and get away with it first. 

Once we tear down the wall, we'll extend a hand in friendship. Once they tear down the wall, the knives will come out and the disruptors will fire. Again, pretty [Cygnetian Expletive - Can Not Translate] different."

Potential Threats

The Khelayan Assembly (Formerly The Khelayan Syndicate Combine)

Lt. Tall Trees: "After decades and decades of suffering under Klingon rule, the Khelayan people were able to throw their conquerors off of Khelaya with a combination of weapons secretly purchased from Orion Traders and gear stolen from the Klingons themselves. 

(L) Vault War - Khelayan Syndicate Combine and (R) Current - Khelayan Assembly 

Not long after, an unprecidented seismic disturbance revealed a massive structure formerly buried beneath the planet's surface - The Vault. The hollowed out mountain was found to be a long lost command center and armory constructed by the Janissaries, a militant offshoot of the ancient and highly advanced Precursors.

Adapting to and reverse-engineering some of the Janissary technology, the long picked on Khelayans became the bullies, attacking ships belonging to the Klingons, the Orion Syndicate, and eventually the Federation. Things continued to escalate and eventually a state of war was declared between the Khelayan Syndicate Combine and the UFP. Starfleet won the decisive battle and in the process, the Janissary's creations essentially self-destructed. 

With the aid of Starfleet and Federation Diplomats, a contingency of Khelayan dissidents who opposed the aggressive plans of their 'Vault Commitee were placed in power, reforming the Khelayan Combine into the more peaceful and democratic Khelayan Assembly. The Assembly has proven a very effective political entity but so much of their efforts and resources have been focused on restorations and reparations for the activities of their predecessors. The Federation is supplying aid in exchange for access to the destroyed Janissary structures and machinery for scientific study. 

I feel for the Khelayan people; for those dragged onto a path and into a war they didn't want to be a part of. But...a great many Khelayans made the conscious decision to act like their oppressors after being freed from oppression. That has a cost and they need to pay it. 

I believe the Khelayans have learned a lesson from this ordeal and they will prosper as a result. I know they will. However, there are still Khelayan ships out they that may have learned nothing. We need to keep our eyes and ears open for those misguided spirits."

The Mazzulan Enclave:

Ensign Shae:

"The UFP's first encounters with the Mazzulans occurred when the latter attacked shipping lanes near the Federation worlds of Therbia (Aaamazzara), Delta, and Rhaandar, causing Starfleet to label them a hostile species and their vessels as pirate ships.

After a Federation Security Council meeting revealed Ambassador Nagsot 108 [of Arcturus] had amassed tactical intelligence on the Mazzulans dating back over a decade, at attempt was made on his life. His diplomatic shuttle was sabotaged, forcing it to crash on Dinom II  and marooning the Ambassador, Capt. Anne Fletcher, Commander Bhoth, Commander Carr, Lt. Wilder, two other Starfleet Officers, and the assassin! After the Prosperity crew managed to keep everyone alive and got them rescued, the saboteur felt she owed them for and not only admitted to her crime but explained what prompted the Mazzulans' actions. 

They [the Mazzulan Enclave] were not actually angry with the Federation but rather scared our intel would end up leaked to their real enemy, the Romulans. The Mazzulans are proud but also desperate and it drove them to bad decisions. Now, after Capt. Fletcher and the Prosperity helped moderate the Mazzulan/Romulan dispute and 'resolved' the Beacon of K'atrahal situation, our relationship with the Enclave is significant'y different.

The Mazzulans are now open to diplomatic talks with the Federation and we are cautiously optimistic about future relations between the two. However, take that with..the Human expression is 'a grain of salt'. The UFP and Starfleet remain wary. Any power that can become that aggressive that quickly when they believe themselves backed into a corner is a too volatile to trust so easily so soon.  

(L) The Mazzulan Enclave and (R) The Mazzulan Navy

I will conclude my entry on the Mazzulans by saying I would personally categorize them as potential allies and not potential threats. It will take time but I believe many of the Federation member species have more in common with the Mazzulans that initially perceived."

*Although I have created a great many NPCs for this campaign (that's the understatement of the century), I also encouraged the 'Department Heads' to come up with various members of their staff. Alex created about a dozen Engineers operating under Commander Bhoth, Leo created a much smaller number of Scientists, and Arthur came up with a half a dozen key Security personnel. Landing Parties might beam down with two expendable Security Officers but if we knew there was going to be trouble you might have these two accompanied by a named officer like Lt. Tall Trees. After surviving time after time, Tall Trees became a well liked background character and I thought about making her the Assistant Chief of Security, until...

**Lt. M'Hara started as a Player Character, run by my [at the time] girlfriend Esmeralda. After a few sessions she couldn't make the games anymore but I liked M'Hara so she stayed on as an NPC. Eventually, after one of our 'Season Finales', I decided to open the next season with Tall Trees as Asst. Security Chief. Wait...what happened to M'Hara? Transferred to the USS Persistence and promoted to their Chief of Security. 

***The idea up above is that each character is giving information about the main antagonist of the season when they were top Security NPC. If the antagonist is current to the campaign, I had Ensign Shae chime in as well. 

"Next, a brief history of war as it applies to our current region of the frontier..."

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Barking Alien

Happy Luna New Year! 2026 is the Year of the Horse! Gong Hei Fat Choi!

RPG Campaign Tour Challenge 2026 - DAY 15

Day 15-What are some things in the setting that are best avoided?

"Flying headlong into danger seems an integral part of being a Starfleet Officer.

I can not in good conscience say this isn't true but there is a lot more to what we do then heading blindly forward into the unknown. There are sensor scans, researching Starfleet and UFP records, and using ones wits and skills to assess the situation that lies ahead and what the best way to handle it may be. 

All this to say, while I am about to describe some elements of the Sierra-12, Tango-8, and Tango-9 Sectors that pose potential dangers to the otherwise unwary traveler, this isn't an invitation for you to check them out personally. Starfleet is highly trained and specially equipped to deal with threats both nature and abnormal and without that preparation, well, multiply the peril a hundred fold. 

To be clear, I am not saying you can't explore outer space if you're not a Starfleet Officer. I lived out among the stars all by myself for years before I encountered the Prosperity and its crew but...it was hard. It was extremely hard. Supplies were limited, food often scarce, and hostile aliens a constant concern. I want you to enjoy your time out here and not have to spent every moment fighting for survival. I did that and while I am thankful for the talents and skills I developed, I don't wish that kind of experience on anyone else. 

*Sigh. Deep breath.* "Be careful out there. Be smart. Do your research. Bring the right gear and supplies and make sure they're in good working order. Make sure you know how to fix your gear in a pinch. Bring a communicator and a long range subspace beacon. Don't be scared but do be cautious.

OK, let's begin..."

The Neutronium Debris Field

On Stardate 7681.3, the USS Prosperity responded to a distress call from the Andorian Commerical Vessel 'Shinig Dust', a freighter transporting various minerals and other materials to Mozinphar's Planet from the Andorian Mining Consortium's colony on Partha V (Partha System, HD 1108). Chief of Communications Hitomi Kikaeda reported the message abruptly cutting off mid-sentence. When Commander Carr, our Chief Science Officer, scanned for the cargo ship he detected a massive field of neutronium, which seemed an impossibility. 

Neutronium is virtually indestructible, an extremely dense and heavy metal that is completely unbothered by direct phaser fire at full power. Somehow, hundreds of thousands of tons of the material was detected, scattered in a massive field, its components moving away from each other in the manner of an exploded ship or planetoid. 

When Prosperity arrived she came face-to-face with a most extraordinary site...I can't say I'd seen anything quite like it before. A destroyed Planet Killer. A broken and blasted Doomsday Machine.

This area is now marked by a Hazardous Travel Buoy, a warning beacon alerting starships of the danger in moving through the area. Between massive chunks of neutronium, the remains of the 'Shining Dust', and other components, a vessel moving through this part of space should honestly just avoid it all together. If you do find yourself near enough to this site that the debris might pose a danger to your ship, first divert as much power as you can spare to your shields and navigational deflectors. Use navigational sensors to plot the shortest and safest course out of the subsector. If your ship is equipped with a tractor beam, keep it on standby. It might be possible to use it to push away larger chunks of debris but only do this if absolutely necessary. 

It should also be noted that before its destruction, the Planet Killer eliminated the Partha System and the planet of the same name. Being the Prosperity's Chief Navigator it was my task to confirm the destruction of Partha V and the loss of all five thousand inhabitants, mostly Andorian and Human miners. Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those lost in this terrible event. 

Unfortunately, I can not divulge any additional information regarding this mission. As of now, Starfleet has classified many of the details for the purposes of not impeding a continued investigation into the incident. Also, salvage and scavenger crews may attempt to ignore the warning buoy and that would be a very bad idea on their part. You should certainly be aware that these ships, as well as pirates, may also be circling the area like vultures (a carrion eating bird from Earth not unlike the Cheronian Strixin, a most unpleasant creature).

The Romulan Neutral Zone and Romulan Space

A demilitarized zone of space in the Beta Quadrant located between the United Federation of Planets and the Romulan Star Empire. It was established about 100 years ago* in the aftermath of the Earth-Romulan War and the establishment of the Coalition of Planets (precursor to the UFP). Entering into the zone is an act of war and any vessel of the opposing side found on the controlling side of the zone will be immediately fired upon. At least, that is how the official papers read. 

In actuality, starships cross the zone far more often then people think. It is certainly not a common occurance by any means but there have been numerous cases where vessels have entered and transversed the Romulan Neutral Zone for the purposes of emergency rescues, diplomatic and intelligence based meetings, and other less noble purposes. Several dozen Federation Outposts are positioned on the UFP side of the zone, charged with monitoring the area to prevent any sort of large scale incursion. The Romulans have similar 'listening posts' on their side. 

In practice, Starfleet and the Federation do an excellent job of watching out for Romulan ships trying to sneak across the border but with vessels equipped with Cloaking Devices and commanders with a knack for stealthy operations, it is impossible to spot and stop them all. I am not here just to tell you not to attempt entering the Neutral Zone; beware of Romulan ships that may have gotten through undetected. 

If you do come across a Romulan vessel, do not engage. Instead, make best possible speed away from the region and send an open channel distress call. It will very likely be picked up by one of the UFP listening outposts, patrolling Starfleet vessels, or Starbase 19. They will respond and give you instructions on what to do next.  

The Typhon Expanse

An immense gaseous nebula in the Beta Quadrant that has yet to be fully explored. Due to the difficulties in traveling through this celestial body, what little we know of the nebula's interior comes from long range sensor scans, which have been inconsistant and inconclusive, and probes, many of which have been lost.  

Nebulas of this type have a great deal of radiation that interferes with starship sensors and subspace communications. In addition to the obvious ways in which this limits exploration of the area, it makes it difficult to radio for help should your vessel encounter a serious issue. 

At one point Starfleet completely restricted passage into the expanse while it investigated a possible temporal anomaly located in the coreward section of the nebula. A Starfleet Science Outpost was established in the Echo 4 System (HD 125484) to study the phenomenon. Eventually the anomaly collapsed and Echo 4 is scheduled to be repurposed.**

"While we are on the subject of dangerous aspects of the Tango-8 and Tango-9 Sectors, I think its best to share what we know about the direct threats and hostile forces operating in the vicinity. That will be our next entry..."

*The Earth-Romulan War did not occur in a 'fixed year' in our campaign. It is an event that occurred a plot amount of years ago, roughly mapping to 100 years prior to the campaign but its a soft century to be sure. It seems a long time ago when I need it to and not so long ago that a Earth-Romulan War era derelict may still have some functional parts. 

**Ensign Shae was not privy to all the details of the Typhon Oracle Anomaly mission. Echo 4 was monitoring a rift in space/time located deep within the coreward part of the expanse through which Romulan subspace communications from 8 years in the future were coming through. This provided a rather unique espionage opportunity and Echo 4 was a Starfleet Intelligence operation. When Starfleet lost contact with the outpost, the USS Prosperity and USS Persistance were sent to investigate. 

As it turned out, when the anomaly opened 8 years ago, a Romulan Scout Ship and its pilot were accidentally caught in the phenomenon on the other side of the rift, located deep within Romulan Space. He managed to survived for a time on his ship and when the Echo 4 base was established, he murdered the base's Vulcan First Officer and replaced him.

In his disguise as Commander Suran, he developed a unhealthy obsession with Lt. Mirai Kodama, the Subspace Anomaly Specialist. Over the next 8 years 'Suran' became more and more unstable, slowly going mad. He eventually planned to kidnap Lt. Kodama and take her back with him back through the anomaly to his origin time. One day, seeing Kodama having a private conversation with Lt. Sovot, the Communications Specialist, 'Suran' murdered the younger Vulcan in a passionate rage. Lt. Kodama ran and 'Suran' gave chase. The Oracle Anomaly started to breakdown and become unstable. Reacting with the time-phased molecular structure of the Romulan madman, a bunch of murderous time shadows formed and proceeded to start killing, well everybody. The Prosperity arrived at Echo 4 and using their  particular talents and detective skills they managed to piece all this together. 

Personnel of Starfleet Intelligence Outpost Echo 4

Survivors highlighted. 

In the end, Captain Fletcher and her crew - with particularly excellent work by Commander Carr and then newcomer Lt. Wilder - managed to save Lt. Kodama and another officer, Lt. Katerina Volkov and eliminate the time shadows using a static neutrino field and a powerful tachyon burst. The collapsing Oracle Anomaly ended up trapping the Romulan, who was arrested by the Prosperity. 

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Barking Alien

RPG Campaign Tour Challenge 2026 - DAY 14

Day 14-What to order to 'Eat like a local'.

"Living on my own, moving from planet to planet to avoid the unpleasantness of my own people, I ate whatever I could get ahold of that wasn't dangerous to my health. As I noted previously, sometimes I made some fantastic discoveries and sometimes what I came across was pretty foul.

Now that I'm in Starfleet and travel to new planets and civilizations on a regular basis, I find that my earlier experiences have turned me into a rather adventurous eater. Not deterred by the occasional bitter fruit or utterly bland plant, I am always curious to try something I haven't taste before. The foods of the galaxy exhibit infinite diversity in an infinite combinations of flavors (my apologies to the my Vulcan friends for the one. *Chuckle*). 

While there appears to be an endless number of great restaurants in the Federation, I really relish trying local foods in the regions I visit. Here are a few that really stand out to me...

Andorian Cuisine

Thuush shu Hetht

'Thuush in a Nest'

Technically, Andorian foods are not local to the sectors we're currently exploring. Andor is a long way from the Tango Super Sector but there are a considerable number of Andorian colonists and merchant vessels traveling throughout the area, so their cuisine is pretty prevalent in this vicinity As I have close relationships with two Andorian friends, I've had the opportunity to sample a large number of different dishes. Here are my thoughts, combined with some additional research.

Most non-Andorians find Andorian foods either very bland or sickly sweet. One of the staples of their fare is, as an example, Thelodoln or Andorian Tuber Roots, a root vegetable not unlike the Earth potato, turnip, and taro. Nine out of ten non-Andorians who try them find them almost tasteless, while those who do like them tend to absolutely love them. I find them bland myself but not tasteless by any means. They are just so subtle that I'd rather eat something else. 

Andorian Redbat is a flying mammal native to their homeworld that Andorians ate on a regular basis in regions of the planet where the animal flourished. As travel between different regions of Andor became more common,  the popularity of the creature as a food spread. Raising Redbats became a rising industry, though to this day most Andorians agree that wild Redbat tastes much better than domesticated. Eventually the meat became popular beyond Andor, real and synthesized, and is one of the few Andorian dishes liked by species all across the UFP. It has been described by more than one Human as 'steak cooked in chicken broth'. It is very rare to find Redbat out here on the frontier and apparently the Andorians are willing to pay considerably to get ahold of some. 

Thuush is a comfort food that is eaten by everyone from the average working citizen to the highest Clan nobles. Throughout Andorian history, different classes of people have prepared it differently, given what other ingredients they are able to obtain by their station in life. Basically, Thuush is a thick, whipped egg custard that is mixed with blue barley flour and buttermilk. It looks like semi-solid custard or Earth's flan. It is normally served as a side dish. Often it is mixed with other things like honey, salt, butter, or even Andorian garlic. The resulting flavors are usually very sweet and/or salty but a savory version is not unknown. 

There is a related dish once considered fancy by common folk that eventually impressed the nobility as well known as Thush shu Hetht or 'Egg in a Nest'. These are absolutely delicious! Commander Bhoth told me his mother made them on Andorian holidays when he was a child. The first time I had them they were made by renowned Vulcan chef Solna, younger sister of former First Officer Commander Solok and married to Commander Bhoth's blood brother, Lt. Hallee Thran of the USS Algol. These are threads of deep fried Tuber Root, formed to look like a small bird's nest, that is then filled with Thuush heavily sweetened with honey and butter. Some people add tiny Miteberries and crushed nuts but that isn't the traditional way. 

As for Andorian Ale, that ever-present effervescent blue beverage that has a massive impact on Andorian culture and power in the Tango Super Sector; I've spoken a little about it already but I can not emphasize enough the importance of this drink and the industry around it to the economic, social, and even political well-being of this region of space.

[Blue] Orion Cuisine

Barbequed Garadius Wing-Slug, Orion Style.

The blue-skinned Orions (who pronounce their species 'OR-ee-ans') likely came to this region of space in one of several lost sleeper ships launched from Orion Prime nearly a hundred years ago to colonize some far off world that they may or may not have successfully reached. For the most part, these Orions live in small enclaves on a variety of planets, as well as in nomadic caravans of starships that travel around in constantly moving pirate fleets. 

Their food is a weird combination of traditional Orion recipes and local ingredients available in the Tango Super Sector, much of which they obtain through piracy. This means the supplies you have to work with this week may not be seen again for weeks or even months. It is therefore even more impressive that they even have a defined cultural cuisine at all.

One of the most popular mainstay Orion dishes is the cooking of Orion Wing-Slugs, an insect-winged invertabrate animal native to their home planet of Orion (Pi3 Orionis III). Different Orion Houses, regions, and even colonies have different ways of preparing the creature. Additionally there are a number of subspecies, some of which are rare and considered a delicacy.

A similar alien species exists on the planet Garadius IV (Garadius System - Delta Muscae) and the Blue Orions poach them as often as they can. I say poach because the people living on Garadius IV are not catching these creatures and selling them to the Orions but rather the Orions are sneaking onto the planet and illegally capturing and removing them. They are most commonly drowned in a beer-like marinade and then allowed to dry out a bit before barbequing them, either slow roasting or over a grill. 

Most of their other foods are, as noted, whatever they can find and steal from the ships they pilfer. As a result, some of the other foods in this entry may end up on Orion tables. According to some reports, they have a version of the traditional Orion Wanderer's Biscuit, which they call a Raider's Biscuit, which is akin to the Hardtack of ancient Earth sailors.

Orion Beer, interchangably called Orion Ale, and Orion Dulaq are popular alcoholic beverages with both Green and Blue Orions. The local versions of these use alternate ingredients but come very close to their traditional forms. Their beer has a greener tint to it than the traditional recipe and their dulaq is a very deep green and can cause hallucinations if overindulged (or even if you aren't used to it). 

Mazzulan Cuisine

Mazzulan Zoh'meza with Spicy Cream Sauce.

As seen on New Cheron. 

Not a lot is known about Mazzulan cultural details such as art, music, and food Relations between the Mazzulans and the Federation had a very rough start and although things are progressing slowl,, they do seem generally promising.

That said, some observations can be made based on early trade discussions, what visiting diplomats eat, and their physiology, which as I've previously mentioned combines Vulcan/Romulan biology with that of Green Orions. 

They tend to prefer Vulcan dishes but will add far more spices to them, notably black pepper, chili pepper, and cinnamon. In addition, whereas most Vulcans are vegetarian, the Mazzulans are not and will add meat to Vulcan dishes that traditionally do not include it. One example is chili pepper and shreaded fowl meat, such as chicken, being added to Plomeek Soup, a Vulcan favorite. It seems to be a Mazzulan staple and I recently found out they call it Ploh mez'mehk. 

A food unique to the Mazzulan people was found on New Cheron (Xices II, Star System Xices/GL 570.1)  during our recent visit there. Pre-prepared and available to take away, the Zoh'meza or 'Leaf Meal', was made by the fellow in charge of the colony's provisions and general store. He and his daughter had made them for those working to keep the colony operating. This food consists of a millet-like grain mixed with meat and vegetable which is then wrapped in the wide edible leaf of a tropical plant native to Mazzula. It is often served with a mildly spicy, creamy sauce. Humans have described it as a cross between a Tamale and Sticky Rice in a Lotus Leaf. The ones I saw were formed into a pyramid shape making them easy to carry and eat 'on the go'. I imagine they might make variations on this shape as well. 

I don't know about you but I'm full. 

Let us continue on our journey,

AD

Barking Alien

RPG Campaign Tour Challenge 2026 - DAY 13

Day 13-Where can we get a drink and a bite to eat?

"Food is another thing I have come to appreciate in a very different way today compared to how I felt about it before joining Starfleet. 

I don't recall much about food on Cheron. My family, specifically my mother, made due with what meager provisions and ingredients we could afford and get ahold of. She regularly made a kind of watering stew made out of...whatever was available. It never tasted exactly the same, never looked identical to the last time she made it, and yet it was always 'Sustaining Soup'. I didn't hate it and I didn't like it. I simply ate it, because that's what my mother had made and that's what would keep us alive.

When I was out on my own, foraging and hunting in a manner I would never have imagined I'd be doing in a million millennia, I discovered...well...flavors. Some fruits and vegetables were dangerous, some full of nutrients, but even more incredibly, some tasted really bad and other really good. The same with meats! Herbs allowed me to change the taste of the food. It sounds silly to me know but it was a startling revelation at the time.

In Starfleet...pardon me, I need a moment. *Plays off rubbing her eye as she wipes away a tear while smiling all the while* My apologies, something in my eye. During my time here in Starfleet I've experienced such a wide variety of flavors and textures in food that I often can't wrap my mind around how such a thing is possible. I once eat to live and its not that I live to eat per se but I actually enjoy meals now and its a pretty wonderful experience. What makes it even better is having others to share food with. Be it in the Mess Hall or in a restaurant, sitting down with friends to have a meal together is one of the highlights of my off hours these days. 

I'd like think to my parents would be happy for me but it makes me sad that they never had the chance to enjoy this life with me. My apologizes again. Lt. Commander Gravph always says 'food brings up memories' and it seems he's right. Even 'Sustaining Soup'. 

The Restaurants of Starbase 25

I've spoken of the restaurants on Deep Space Station K-12 previously and while they are quite good, even very good, they don't have notoriety or diversity of those on Starbase 25. When I first defected to the United Federation of Planets and made the decision to join Starfleet, I went to Starbase 25 and my goodness, I had never seen so many different places to eat in my life. I would later learn that some of these are truly top rated restaurants. I'll describe only a few that I or one of my close crewmates have been to.

Tavern Keep! Another!

The Andorian restaurant Clan of Comfort Brew House is more bar than eatery but also a very interesting window into Andorian culture and history. Based on the ancient Brew Houses popular during the time of Krotus the Conqueror, the single, very large room contains two long tables with three [simulated] hearth fires. Lighting overall is low, allowing the hearths to generate a warm light akin to a crackling fireplace no matter where you are in the restaurant. The entire place has a rustic atmosphere. A Human friend said it reminded her of Earth's Medieval Europe.

Mostly the restaurant serves Andorian Ale, a bright blue, carbonated beverate not unlike and yet very different from Earth beer. It has a mildly sweet, berry-like taste. The Clan of Comfort Brew House carries over 50 different brands and types of Andorian Ale, ranging from the dark blue 'Stout of Andoria' to my personal favorite, 'Blue Moon Sour', which is very hard to find anywhere outside of Andor and its close colonies. It tastes a bit like sour blueberries, vanilla, and lightly sweet honey. 

Only very basic food choices are available but most of them are quite good. Tuber Root sticks deep fried in animal fat from a native Andorian creature (ethically sourced) and seasoned 'Nut Shells', which are actually the baked, cast off shells of a Andorian land dwelling crustacean are both very popular (at least with Andorians). 

The restaurant is run by two joined families in the Clan of Comfort, a Keth governing bars, restaurants, and hospitalities such as lodging, tourism, and other related industries. 

Good Morning Starbase 25!

Good Morning/Good Evening is a bakery and cafe with signage saying 'Good Morning' early in station's day, open from 0600 hours until 1200 hours. It than closes until 1800 hours when it reopens with the sign now displaying 'Good Evening'. It remains open until 2400, when it closes until 0600 rolls around again. 

As I understand it, while it is a well liked restaurant, the Good Morning phase has about twice the popularity and patronage as the Good Evening phase. I will say for myself, this place has some of the most delicious baked goods I've ever encountered. True, my exposure to such food is small but many of my fellow crewmates have said the same thing. They make all sorts of muffins, rolls, cakes, and similar bread items but there is this one...a salty, buttery roll or biscuit that is probably one of my favorite things to eat in the universe. I'm full after one but always considering getting a second one immediately after I finish the first.

Good Morning also serves excellent Coffee which, if you are not familiar with this beverage, is essentially the life blood of Human society and certainly Starfleet. The Captain always has a cup of coffee to start her day. Commander Carr likes his black or dark (very little milk) and very sweet. The first time I had it I had to spit it out. It was awful. Doctor Hanover realized the acidity of the drink was too low for my body. After adjusting the pH level of the water in it I tried it again and I was stunned. I loved it and it's near-magical awakening effect was like nothing I'd ever had before or since outside of a Medical Stimulant from a hypospray. Of course coffee a lot more pleasant than the later. 

The owner of the establishment informed me that the restaurant is in the retro-style of Earth's 1950s 'Americana' period, with specialized lighting to give Morning mode and Evening mode very different moods.

Spicy and Comfy!

Oasis in a Desert Haze is a Zaranite restaurant that, for reasons I will go into, usually isn't especially busy and that is a shame. Both the food and the overall atmosphere there is wonderful. One sits on the ground, which is covered in wooly rugs and small square pillows, positioned around a table carved by hand out of some sort of smooth sandstone. The food usually consists of one or two large plates with main dishes, two bowls of soup - one hot, one cold - and a dozen small plates of everything from vegetables and nuts to flat breads and deeply fried meats. Everyone takes a little of everything and puts it on their own plate so you can try it all. Variations on this set-up are available but I am told this is the traditional and preferred way of serving a Zaranite meal.

While most of the food is what would generally qualify as spicy, some is savory, and some is sweet, all in the same sitting. The Zaranites do not appear to have 'courses' or the concept of 'dessert' as a separate meal, except on special occasions. Drink usually consists of one of several types of spiced [though not spicy] tea or a sort of sweet beer.

The Zaranites, a desert dwelling species from the planet Zaran (Mu Capricorni II), have an antagonistic history with the Andorians and friction with the Efrosians, resulting in many people giving them and their establishments a wide berth that I do not personally feel is warranted. Additionally, a Zaranite Phaser Engineer on the Prosperity, who has proven to be an honorable and heroic individual, invited me and a number of others to this restaurant and I can attest it was definitely something you should experience yourself. 

All this talk has made me hungry *laughter*.

Who's up for a bite? Let's try some local cuisine...

AD

Barking Alien