Eridani

You may be looking for the Star Trek TOS zine Eridani Triad.

Zine
Title:	Eridani
Publisher:	Orion Press
Editor(s):	Randall Landers (#1-#21), then Priscilla J. Ball (#22-)
Date(s):	Oct 1988 - Oct 1999
Series?:
Medium:	print
Size:
Genre:
Fandom:	Star Trek: TNG
Language:	English
External Links:	Orion Press
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Eridani is a gen Star Trek: TNG fanzine from Orion Press.

Most issues were anthologies, but occasionally novellas were published as part of the series.

It ran for 30 issues from 1988 to 1999. Issues #1-#22 were edited by Randall Landers, and the remaining issues were edited by Priscilla J. Ball.

There are also reprints of this zine issued as Eridani Omnibus.

The editor's description:

ERIDANI is a Star Trek: The Next Generation fanzine which tries to capture the very essence of the new television series. There may be occasional violence, adult situations, nudity and rough language, but those instances are noted in the descriptions, and no age statement is required for this publication.

This Zine Series and "Established Canon"

In June 1991, the editor Landers, stated that this zine series had not yet established an understood canon as it had for another one of his other zine series:

Editor's Note: I have yet to establish a canon for ERIDANI as we did for ORION. The reason for this is... The episodes are still coming up with all sorts of new backgrounds on the characters. It will be some tine before we do set up an ERIDANI canon, and we encourage all writers to continue to develop their works within their own universes. RAL

It is unknown if, as the series went on, Landers did so.

General Reactions and Reviews

I must pass on my compliments on your truly excellent series of ERIDANI zines! I’ve been a fan of the original Star Trek as long as I can remember and am also a fan of Star Trek: The Next Generation. I do not really collect zines or go out of my way to read them, but I must say that your ERIDANI series has changed that. Of the few Next Generation zines around, I have really found yours to be the best in terms of quality, consistency and varied story ideas.

I recently acquired copies of ERIDANI 2, 3 and 4. I was some what reluctant to read them, since ERIDANI 1 was mediocre at best. However, since I'm a Next Gen fan who's desperate for reading material, I took a chance. I was pleasantly surprised. While ERIDANI still is not terrific, it is improving... The art in all three zines is unimpressive.... There is also an unfortunate tendency to print the same piece twice in the zine. With art that's basically uninspiring, I'm not sure why. Art should complement the stories, pique the reader's interest. It shouldn't be... boring.

The editor and/or publisher should watch more carefully for typographical errors; some of the ones in ERIDANI were very distracting, and unintentionally funny. A villain tells Data he's "trying her patients" in ERIDANI 2 (perhaps for having the flu without a license). And in ERIDANI 3, Data is described as having an "innocuous smile" (I think—I hope — they meant innocent). Also in ERIDANI 3, the heroine is told by The Bad Guy that she will "bare his children," which sounds a tad...kinky...to me.

Overall, ERIDANI needs more judicious editing. It comes out quite often, which may be part of the problem; perhaps the editor hasn't built in sufficient lead time in which to give the stories the reworking they need, or to give the artists time to do justice to the stories. The artists should be encouraged to illustrate. If they haven't the time or desire to do so, find some who do; there is enough talent in mediafandom that that shouldn't be too onerous a task.

This is going to be a difficult overview to write. Y'see, ERIDANI is like the little girl of legend: when it's good, it's very very good, and when it's bad...well, you get the idea. And yet, with so few NEXT GENERATION zines out there, where do new writers go for encouragement, training and improvement? Everybody has to start somewhere, and for Next Gen fans ERIDANI is the place to go.

There have been some wonderful pieces in the first thirteen issues: "The Captain's Woman" by Linda Baker & Randall Landers (issue 5), "On the Carpet" by Chris Dickenson and "Physician's Touch" by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet (issue 7), "A Question of Competence" by Chris Dickenson (which amazes me because apparently no one has figured out just what she used as a plot basis!) and "Mourning Star" by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet (issue 8), "A Matter of Minutes" by BEKi and "Lessons Learned—Maybe" by Barbara Caldwell (issue 11), and just about EVERYTHING in #12. But to be honest, there are some stories that I had to force myself to finish...and a few that I just couldn't bring myself to finish. Story quality is uneven in any given issue.

One thing you can't complain about is the artwork. Barbara Caldwell and Julie Nasal's stuff takes your breath away, and the humorous pieces of Janet D'Airo and Susan Leinbach are real howlers. Landers makes the best of the artwork he gets, though at times he got a bit over-enthused with reductions. But oh, it's a pleasure to flip through these zines and see the talent that's out there.

So while admitting that I'd like to see more consistent quality in the writing (and I concede that things are improving every issue), ERIDANI is certainly worth taking the time to buy and read—and for new writers wanting to try their hand at NEXT GEN fanfic, I definitely endorse it.

. I’m pleased to tell you that your zine is one of the few Next Gen zines I buy anymore because of its consistent quality. The art and stories are always enjoyable, and I hope that it and the Next Gen TANTALUS zines continue for along time.

Thanks for the flyer — I’m getting my order in ASAP, especially since I'm desperate for a good ST:TNG story. Pocket Books seems to have lowered their standards, and I've been so disappointed in their last several books. I can always trust ERIDANI to give me a good read! Your zines are like an oasis in a hot desert (okay, that's pretty sappy)!

I’ve really enjoyed your zines so far — I intend to keep ordering as long as you put them out. Your clean format and high production values make them a joy to read. Keep up the good works.

Would it be possible to have more Riker and a little less Picard stories in the future? In my humble opinion, the show is wasting a fine talent in the likes of Jonathan Frakes - they just don’t use him enough.

[Editor's Note: To put it simply, we can only publish what we receive. If we receive a number of Picard stories while preparing for an issue, than that issue will contain a number of Picard stories. To be honest, about half of the stories in ERIDANI featured Riker prominently. Also I was a caught a little off-guard by your request. I do ask that all readers bear in mind that ERIDANI does not focus on a single character, preferring to feature ail characters in what I hope is a balanced and fair manner. - Randy]

...The only fault I can find with the whole publication is not enough Picard ...

A Heated Exchange Regarding "Endings"

There was a heated and emotional exchange among several fans regarding a story by Mary Lee Soon.

See Endings.

The First's Issues Optional Supplement: "Get Wesley"

"Eridani's" first issue contains an optional supplement called "Get Wesley."

It included vignettes and stories that tortured and killed the character Wesley Crusher.

Most fans considered it rude, cruel, and inappropriate.

The publisher, Randall Landers, wrote in subsequent issues that he agreed with some of these assessments and fan comments, but he also stated that he found them funny, which was why he printed them.

See more at Get Wesley.

Issue 1

front cover of issue #1, Melody Rondeau

back cover of issue #1, Marie Williams (many issues were missing this back cover)

Eridani 1 was published in October 1988 and contains 91 pages.

The artwork is by Linda Baker, Robert Jan, Melody Rondeau, Carol C. Smith, Gennie Summers, and Marie Williams.

This issue contained an optional supplement called "Get Wesley." It included vignettes and stories that tortured and killed the character Wesley Crusher.

From the editorial:

Welcome to the first of what we hope will be many issues of a new fanzine devoted entirely to [[Star Trek: The Next Generation]]. As I write this introduction, we are still in the process of receiving subs. We really LIKE a lot of what we’ve seen so far, but several works are very similar to others we’ve received. Rather than subject an average reader to several Riker-Troi stories, we’ve selected only what we feel are the best examples of each type of story for inclusion here. But rest assured, the other submissions will, be printed in future volumes of ERIDANI. So far, we’ve seen lots of Riker-Troi, Worf, and Picard-Crusher stories. We’re going to have to stagger these over the next few issues, okay? How about some action-adventure, Yar, and Data stories?

Our first story for this issue, "The Silken Tie,” was written by Carol Smith, and it is one of the better Riker-Troi stories we’ve received so far. It is set shortly after ’’Encounter at Farpoint” when Bill and Deanna are trying to adapt to being thrust into each other's company.

The second story, entitled "Interview with a Klingon,” was written and illoed by Robert Jan of Australia. Robert has transported himself aboard Enterprise to interview bridge officer Lieutenant Worf, and lives (barely) to regret it. "Sting in the Tail” is another story by Robert Jan, concentrated on Worf, his motivations and character. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.

"All Strung Out,” written by Roger Sorensen, is a ”Kill-Wesley” story. We half-heartedly requested such stories as the kid seems to be the least liked of all the Next Trek cast. Melody Rondeau did the illustration for it, as well as a cartoon and the cover.

Ann Zewen, who’s had her work published in ORION and IDYLLS, has written "Command Image.” Not to give the story away, we will not be printing a lot of stories which have the Next Trek characters meet the Star Trek characters. Almost all of the ones we received were so contrived (time warps, alien intervention, the Guardian were among the mediocre ways the crews of the different U.S.S. Enterprise's met), but Ann’s story rises far above this. I’m positive you will like it. Linda Baker provided the illustration for it.

Bill Hupe, the publisher of all ORION PRESS publications, wrote the nightmarish ”Do Androids Dream Electric Nightmares?” and had Marie Williams come up with an illo for it. Chris Dickenson created a script entitled "Legacy.” An alien civilization has left behind a unique legacy which ensnares the crew of the Enterprise. And, finally, in the Picard-Crusher vein, we have the R-rated "The Morning After (a.k.a. After the Naked Time)” by Jackie Edwards which is a Crusher-Picard piece to stimulate your...thinking.

We didn't have a lot of art for this first issue because very few artists we wrote were able to meet the deadline for ERIDANI 1.

• From the Editor, by Randy Landers (2)
• The Silken Tie by Carol C. Smith (3)
• Interview with a Klingon by Robert Jan (22)
• All Strung Out by Roger Sorensen ("A "Get Wesley" story wherein the ingratiating teenager gets his just reward. -- Note: Violence.") (33)
• Sting in the Tail by Robert Jan (35)
• Command Image by Ann Zewen (38)
• Do Androids Dream Electric Nightmares? by Bill Hupe (49)
• Legacy by Chris Dickerson (53)
• The Morning After (a.k.a. After the Naked Now) by Jackie Edwards (78)
• Get Wesley! by Bill and Ann Hupe, and Cyrena White ("A collection of "Get Wesley" stories wherein Next Gen's resident know-it-all dies in a variety of gruesome ways. Fans really hated this character, especially in the beginning of the series. Not that it ever got much better...") (85)

• 

  flyer from Comlink #38, click to read

• 

  from issue #1, Carol C. Smith

• 

  from issue #1, Robert Jan

• 

  from issue #1, Robert Jan

• 

  from issue #1, Gennie Summers

• 

  from issue #1, Marie Williams

• 

  from issue #1, Melody Rondeau

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 1

See reactions and reviews for Do Androids Dream Electric Nightmares?.

I am not a dirty old lady. I am NOT. But, I adored "The Morning After" (aka "After the Naked Now") by Jackie Edwards. It's the morning after for Jean-Luc and Beverly as they come to terms with what almost happened. And what DOES happen. This will shoot down forever the idea that there was no chemistry between those two. Also, you can just hear Stewart and McFadden as you read this.

"The Silken Tie" concerns the Riker/Troi relationship early in the new voyages of the Enterprise. If you like Klingons, you'll like Robert Jan's "Interview with a Klingon," namely Worf. Who says Klingons have no sense of humor? (And who would say it to their faces?!)

On the darker side, Data discovers "Do Androids Dream Electric Nightmares?" by Bill Hupe.

With the exception of some enchanting cartoons by Melody Rondeau, the art is unremarkable.

91 pgs. Sexual situations, no nudity.

Eridani contains lots of excellent Next Generation fiction.

'Command Image,' on the holodeck, Riker boards the NCC 1701 to meet his idol;

'Do Androids Dream Electric Dreams,' Data finds himself a human being, is it a blessing or a curse?.

'The Silken Tie,' is Riker really over Troi?.

The final section is a series of 'Kill Wesley' vignettes which will only be sent if specifically requested (there is some debate on the appropriate use of violence here and is definitely not for the squeamish, such as stripping the flesh inch by inch... in detail.)

The contents are uneven, but there are a few clever bits. "The Silken Tie" by Carol Smith is a Riker-Troi story. The ENTERPRISE visits a planet whore Troi has an empathic contact with a female alien in labor. Unfortunately, there's not much to this story, either in the Riker-Troi relationship or the alien subplot.

"Interview with a Klingon" by Robert Jan is also superficial. It is an interview with Worf, and seems to have been meant to be funny, but I did not find it so.

I also found "Sting in the Tail," where Worf does a battle simulation, similarly flat.

On the other hand, 'All Strung Out' by Roger Sorenson, is a funny story, and is even funnier on re-reading. It's a 'get rid of Wesley Crusher' story.

'Command Image" by Ann Zewen is a bit weak in the beginning, but gets better as the story goes along. It's a clever idea — Riker visits the original ENTERPRISE (NCC-1701) via the holodeck.

'Do Androids Dream Electric Nightmares' by Bill Hupe is a clever title, and interesting premise, but it lacks development. If I had edited this, I would have asked the author to expand on the idea.

"Legacy" by Chris Dickenson is written in a pseudo-script format. I would prefer to see a narrative style, but the story is rather cute. The males of the ENTERPRISE begin to make amorous advances on the females. My favorite line in this story is from Data: "However, as they say, you're not my type.'

"The Morning After (a.k.a. After the Naked Now)" by Jackie Edwards seems contrived to me. As the story goes along, Picard and Dr. Crusher (who end up making love), seem less and less in character. I found the phrase "he turned back to his prey." (referring to Picard looking at Dr. Crusher) to be particularly distressing. Women are not prey, nor are they prizes.

The last section, which is available only on request, is a "Get Wesley" section. This consists of five very short stories in which Wesley meets his demise. The fifth story is a bit cold, but the first four struck me as being well-written, at least.

In short, I think the middle stories are worth a look. This might be a place to start for those looking for ST:TNG stories.

Further down the scale in technique [this reviewer compares it to two stories in Rerun #6], but worthwhile for some interesting ideas and decent characterizations is "The Silken Tie" by Carol Smith… It involved two interwoven plotlines, and is an original story which does not use one of the episodes as its base. Briefly, the ENTERPRISE is visiting what is assumed to be an uninhabited planet, when Deanna Troi senses something in pain (this poor lady must stock Excedrin by the case-full) The subsequent answer to that problem, while certainly not new, was unique enough to catch my interest. The subplot deals with Deanna's relationship with Will Riker, and although some of the prose was a bit neon-purple ("this little enchantress"—ugh!), the writer has presented us with a fairly believable version of both characters (Certainly anyone who expands upon Deanna Troi's character in a believable fashion gets my vote — Roddenberry and company have used Troi mostly as decoration this season.) I was somewhat disappointed by the lack of resolution to this subplot, but within the confines of the aired series, the author's hands were pretty much tied. Still, it seemed pointless to introduce the idea without a way of bringing it to at least a new stage of development. The writer shows promise, however, I wish that I could say the same for the zine in which it appears.

ERIDANI, for the most part, ranged from excruciatingly awful (the kill-Wesley short-shorts—which were mercifully brief), to fair (the story reviewed above). The exceptions to that rule were Melody Rondeau's wonderful cartoons, which she has submitted to numerous zines, and which brightened up what soon became a rather onerous task, rather than what at worst should have been a guilty pleasure.

The first of a series centered on the Enterprise: NCC-1701:D. Certainly different with a racy ending to 'The Naked Now,' two Klingon pieces, an interview with Lt. Worf and Battle Tactics. Two other stories concern Riker as an officer and as person.

'The Silken Tie' focuses on Riker's relationship with Deanna. When Deanna is called upon via telepathy to help another Will Riker realises he still cares very much however a formal attachment would not be right just now. So they decide to remain friends - good friends.

The second 'Command Image' is more interesting: a cross-over between Picard's style and Kirk using the holo deck. Riker has never quite understood why James Kirk is so revered. In using the holo deck, Riker hopes to find out. However, he finds clues but not concrete answers. A talk with McCoy provides some enlightenment but not enough and we are left with the impression that he feels he is better off under Picard. And I think more visits to Kirk's era will be made as Picard seems also to wonder why or maybe he visited the NCC-1701 himself. Leaders always leave their stamp. James Kirk qualifies. Subtly he and his crew will follow Picard and Riker throughout their term on NCC-1701:!).

A good first effort. However, the editor is wanting more action/Data/Yar stories. If editors only receive main character stories, the zine rapidly sinks into the boring category. Come on, with nine personalities, surely someone finds Yar, Worf, Data and Wesley worth a mention.

I decided to check out your zine when a fanzine editor that I trust said that ERIDANI contained a Data story that she totally disagreed with. Well, having read your zine and checked out the story, I can see why she would have problems with ”Do Androids Dream Electric Nightmares". For starters, there’s the problem with [Marie William's] illo. Somehow, the sight of Data the android on his knees, on the floor, tears streaming down his face. is a little hard to swallow. The image isn’t helped by the fact that it’s Riker of all people, who is leaning down, offering to help. You know, the fellow who insulted Data for trying to learn how to paint, and who thought that suggesting selling Data to the Ferengi would make a cute joke? But, what the hay. let's give Number One a break. This is also the same fellow who in "Skin of Evil” ordered Data not to help even though quite possible the lack of such assistance could have lead to Riker's premature demise. Actually, I to be fair, the story wasn't half bad. Yes, I can even see Riker, under the circumstances, ask Mister Data what’s wrong. The problem that I personally have with this story is the author’s idea that old age would be a concept that Data, an android I could emotionally accept, and that being old would be his greatest fear.

Let’s change topics for a minute. Remember the movie Logan's Run? Remember how the girl and the guy had to run for their life ’cause once you're 30, you’ve had it? — you get vaporized. Thems the breaks. Remember how near the end of the movie the girl and the boy ran into an actual old man? And remember what the girl asked the old man? She wondered what those things were (wrinkles) and did they hurt?

How could Data, an android, comprehend the concept of old age, and why would he fear it? As far as Data is concerned, if he was Human, and he could grasp the concept, he’d figure that he’d wind up looking like Leonard "Bones” McCoy, whom he has met once personally anyway. But, like I said, it was a competent story, except for the bit about getting old. [Editor’s Note: I disagree. The entire crew is experiencing hallucinations, and Data is also affected. Who’s to say what he would hallucinate or how he would react to it? - RL]

All in all, ERIDANI is a good zine which I would recommend to my ST: TNG friends—if I knew of any ST: TNG friends that are also Riker fans. [I’m not a particularly big fan of Riker either, but I don’t think the zine is only for Riker fans. - RL]

One of the little things I liked was the way the holodeck programming interfaced with Riker when he decided to "work” on the actual bridge of the "old” Enterprise (in Ann Zewen’s "Command Image”]. One thing that I liked was that his point of view would be from the navigator’s station, even if we the readers do miss out on the guest appearance of Chekov. This was an unusual point of view to use not only in this ST:TNG zine but in ST fiction, both fan and pro. Too often, when writers are describing some acting that is taking part on the Enterprise's bridge, it's like a camera dolly is permanently welded to the floor of the bridge, midway between the science officer’s station and the captain’s chair. Interesting also are the insights and observation that Riker made while in the simulation.

My favorite story of the zine is the [Chris Dickenson] script, ’’Legacy.” My favorite line was Yar’s inquiry of "Geordi, is this one of Data’s dumb jokes?” Indeed, I had this vision of Data performing all manner of, um, unusual actions in his ongoing quest to comprehend Human behavior. Hmmm. Maybe I don’t wanna be on the bridge certain times of the days. Worf’s observations on the book loaning practices in the Klingon Empire was also deftly handled with just the right blend of Worf’s seriousness and the feeling he's "pulling your leg.” I hope Worf was teasing us. One thing about this piece I found mildly confusing was the logic Jean-Luc used in this story to get the job done. While dealing with an apparent disease which threw all males on the ship into a state of Human pon farr. Wouldn't it have made more sense for the captain to quarantine all the males, seeing as this "thing” only affected the men, and place all females on immediate duty? Picard’s solution made as much sense as a country imposing a curfew on all women, in the name of their safety, when it was the men in that country who were doing all the damage. If the situation were reversed, I would stress opposite logic. For instance, I suspect that the spread of the Psi 2000 bug would have gone a lot slower in ’’The Naked Now” if all of the starved nymphomaniacs, were immediately put under house arrest or otherwise quarantine them. [Author's Note: I enjoyed reading Nola Frame-Gray's comments even though I was confused about her remark about quarantining the men. The affliction wasn't contagious, and by the time they realized what was going on, Picard’s command judgment had been severely compromised. Actually, I think the way I wrote it is about the way it might happen. The men were for the most past quarantined as they developed symptoms, but imagine over half of your crew and passengers running amok. Just dealing with the crisis would have been a hand full for a fully functional crew and five of his senior officers were tied up on the away team. Hindsight is great, but reality seldom makes for perfect answers. Nola’s suggestion made sense, but would Picard have had the presence of mind or time and personnel to implement it? He was dealing with some pretty heavy instinctive responses. Remember, at that point his prime directive was getting into C.M. 0. Crusher’s jumpsuit. — Chris Dickenson]

My biggest gripe about this story was that it was the hardest to read — the print was too faint. Maybe somebody should tell the author that the next time she decides to use her dotmatrix printer, she should change the setting from "draft" to "letter quality."

"Get Wesley" stories; the solutions that the writers suggested were unusual enough to hold one’s interest, but I was also startled by the intense hatred which seemed to be the motivation behind the writing of these stories. Yeah, I’d be the first to admit that The Kid is a pest, and I wish that he’d quit saving the ship, and I don’t even appreciate how he manages to treat Lieutenant Commander Data like the android is Wes’ younger brother, and... Hmmm. I think I can see now why fans are so vehement in their hatred against Wesley. So keep those short stories about offing The Brat coming! They are the best parts of your zine! [Actually, I'd hate to think that the "Get Wesley" stories were the best part of ERIDANI 1. I had a great deal of fear and worry to publish them. I thought they were simply tasteless. Don't get me wrong; I can't stand the fact that Wesley saves the day all too often for me to believe. But I think the stories were a bit on the far side of good taste. In the future, we may print more such stories, but we’ll never make the zine such that "Get Wesley" becomes a central theme to ERIDANI. More input on whether or not to keep this questionable section would be appreciated. - RAL]

Just got my copy of ERIDANI and I loved it.

Even though I share [yours and Linda McInnis’] sentiments about Riker being a space yuppy, I had to admit that The The Silken Tie was very well done. [Not only was it] well written, but [also] beautifully illustrated.

The first "Get Wesley” story ["All Strung Out,” by Roger Sorensen] was amusing, but the concentration on "Get Wesley" stories bother me. [Editor: They bother me, too. I am not certain whether or not they will be regular feature. - RAL] I don't care for the character myself, but enough is enough! Please keep the "kill Wesley” stories to a bare minimum. It goes against the Star Trek theme of brotherhood and humanity to express such deep hatred of a character. I’ll admit that one was slightly amusing, but four or five (I lost count) were offensive. In Wil Wheaton’s defense, he himself went to the writers and said, "Hey, you can't have me saving the ship every week. This is ridiculous!” Maybe he hates Wesley, too! Seriously, though, let’s show some restraint in ’offing the brat.’ There are so many possible story ideas with these wonderful new characters, so much to explore. I’m certain we can do something more positive than snuff a fifteen year old.

"Command Image” was beautiful, so well-conceived and skillfully told. [It’s] so nice to have Hikaru’s point of view; he’s always been a favorite of mine. I’ve heard so many fans compare Kirk and Picard; in fact, it’s almost a given when one starts discussing the new series. I love them both as individuals, and I applaud Gene Roddenberry for not making Picard a carbon copy or rehash of Kirk. Jean-Luc is much more refined, experienced, and he has a style all his own. Riker can learn from both of them; God knows he needs all the help he can get.

I liked the Data story [Bill Hupe’s "Do Androids Dream Electric Nightmares?”]. I think that the hallucination of rapid aging would have been shocking to Data who is proud of his physical ability. And Data is capable of shedding tears; I have it from a reliable source: that medical text he mentioned in "The Naked Now.”

Poor Robert Jan! [author of "Interview with a Klingon”] Next time you write to him, tell him I know a good orthopedic surgeon!

The Picard-Crusher story was great. "The Morning After” was just what the doctor ordered. I'm just furious that I didn’t do something in that vein myself. Glad to see Jackie Edwards handled it so well.

”Mon Capitan" really trips my trigger and I hope we can see more of him (literally, Randy!) in ERIDANI 2.

I also loved the illustrations; Linda Baker and Carol Smith are very talented artists.

I thoroughly enjoyed ERIDANI 1, and I'm looking forward to ERIDANI 2! I guess that’s always a nice way to begin a LoC, especially if you mean it (which I do). It was a wonderful way to add some excitement to an endless Rerun Summer (which may, if the Writers’ Guild and the suits don’t get their act together, turn into a Rerun Fall and progress into a Rerun Winter).

Muchly enjoyed "The Silken Tie” and "Command Image” on the more serious side. "The Silken Tie” softened me up a bit toward Riker — it showed ”his side” of the relationship between he and Troi. I liked the presentation of the link between them. "Command Image” was a very good portrait of the differences between Kirk’s and Riker’s ideas of what a captain should be.

On the lighter side, I LOVED ’’Legacy.” Excellent job, Chris Dickenson!

As for "All Strung Out” and the "Get Wesley" section (which I ordered for the sake of getting the "complete zine”) — Poor Wes. If only the series’ writers would quit bashing us over the head with "Children’s Lib” and giving Wesley such an attitude problem, we might actually end up with a sweet kid. I HATE the way his character is written now, but I'm starting to feel sorry for him, too. However, I have to admit that I did get a pretty good snort out of "One Day on the Set of the Next Generation. I wonder if poor Wil Wheaton really does get a lot of hate mail... "Transporter Accident" was also good for a laugh, as was the punch line of [their] "Wesley Meets Momma Alien." The other vignettes and "All Strung Out" were all right, but a bit too cruel or graphic for my taste.

I also liked [Robert Jan’s] "Interview with a Klingon" and "Sting in the Tail" though Vorf didn’t turn out to be quite that Klingon-ish in the series.

[Jackie Edwards’ "The Morning After" —ahem. My. Really quite well, quite. Really.

I noticed the request for more Data and Yar stories — I hope there are more in ERIDANI 2! Tasha Yar’s character and past really offer a lot for a fan writer — Data’s, too! [Editor’s Note: With the boorish demise of

Tasha Yar, it seems unlikely I’ll receive a lot of Yar stories. Hopefully, Data will be spared such an exit, and provide enough stories to make up for the dearth.-RL]

I went to a Star Trek convention in

June, and there I picked up a copy of ERIDANI 1. I wanted to write and tell you how much I enjoyed reading it. My favorite stories were "The Silken Tie,” "Legacy” and "Command Image.” I found "The Morning After (a.k.a. After the Naked Now)” to be nicely spiced in all the right places. And "Sting in the Tail” and "Interview with a Klingon” were amusing.

"Do Androids Dream Electric Nightmares" was different in the sense that Data was picturing all the drawbacks of being Human (I sometimes wonder if he takes that into consideration in his striving to become Human).

And then, of course, there were the Hate-Wesley stories "All Strung Out” and ”Get Wesley” vignettes). Actually, my husband found them even more amusing since he is definitely not a fan of Wesley Crusher.

All in all I thought it was a splendid collection of stories, and I hope that there is another publication looming just around the corner. I am looking forward to the next endeavor with high hopes and great enthusiasm.

I was recently at the Superman con in Cleveland and bought a copy of ERIBANI 1. I loved it! (I liked the humor as well as the serious stories; artwork was great, you mixed the stories well, the writers have real style! I hope there is more to come!

Over July 4th, I picked up the first edition of ERIDANI at in ConJunction

in Indianapolis. I love it!

"Legacy” was very good, and I enjoyed Robert Jan’s Klingon stories and art work. He has a distinctive style. My favorites, however, were Jackie Edward’s "The Morning After (a.k.a. After the Naked Row)” and Melody Rondeau’s "Lore Toasts Wesley” cartoon. Every time I think of Lore and his marshmallows, I laugh. Jackie Edwards’ writing is exceptional; not a word or phrase detracts from the tone of the story. I hope she turns up often in ERIDANI.

Finally, the "Get Wesley” section. I like Wesley. I really do. They haven't developed the character the same way I would if I ran The Next Generation, but that’s life. So I really am not adverse to a little Wesley-bashing, especially if it’s in a humorous vein, like the Bill and Ann Hupe stories. But Cyrena White’s "Untitled" was a little...much. (I can’t say, however, I wasn’t warned. When I bought ERIDANI, and I believe it was from Bill Hupe. I was told there was a real graphic "Get Wesley" story. I thought, okay, they put the kid on a spit and roasted him and had a few laughs. Boy, was I surprised! I guess eyeball-eating is just a little too fast-lane for me.) But that was just a minor quibble.

All in all, I like this fanzine and cannot find fault with any of the writing or artwork that you chose....

Thanks for putting out a great fanzine.

I recently read your first issue of ERIDANI, and enjoyed it thoroughly. The stories were quite original and entertaining. I particularly enjoyed the stories involving my favorite character, Captain Picard. The story, "The Morning After," was very well written and the most adult story I have ever read on Star Trek: The Next Generation.

The "Get Wesley" stories were too numerous and bordered on being cruel.

I loved ERIDANI 1, and can’t wait for number 2! "Get Wesley" was the highlight of my year.

I’ve finally finished reading ERIDANI 1and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it. I was really amazed at the amount of good material you were able to put together even before the first season of Star Trek: The Next Generation was over. A commendable Job. For the most part, I found the stories in ERIDANI 1both interesting in content and well crafted. I especially enjoyed ’’The Silken Tie," "Legacy" and "The Morning After."

"The Silken Tie” gave a new dimension to the Riker/Troi relationship. It was a well-crafted story, interesting both for the characterizations and the basic telepathic/empathic plot. I look forward to more stories by this writer.

"Legacy” also was quite interesting, although frankly I found the script format distracting. To me, scripts are written to be performed, stories to be read. In a zine, I’d much rather read stories. There was some nice use of humor here and good character interaction, although I did have a little trouble reconciling the banning of the women from the bridge when it was the men who had the problem. Otherwise, very excellent story.

The Morning After” did a good job of telling what happened after that wonderful scene in "The Naked Now." However, I found the dialogue somewhat mixed, sometimes right on target and at others a bit out of character.

[...]

I found the characterization of Beverly Crusher uneven, however, as though the writer were unsure whether this woman is shy and reserved or bold and aggressive. Apparently Roddenberry and crew had the same problem since they have decided to drop her from the show. And somehow I cannot think of our dear captain as just "Jean.” He’s either Captain or Jean-Luc, but Jean just doesn't do it for me.

"Do Androids Dream Electric Nightmares?” was a very interesting concept. Yes, I can see Data having such a dream, and I do agree that he would find being Human more of a burden than a blessing if he were given the opportunity to experience it for himself. But the action was a bit choppy here, and this is one where I did have a little trouble with the characterization. Everything seemed to happen too abruptly, and I somehow just didn't get the feel of the characters. Data could have been any android, and Riker any generic Starfleet officer. This is one story I think could have benefited from being expanded. With a little more background, perhaps everything could have been told more smoothly.

I have mixed feelings about Robert Jan’s two Worf stories. As I have an especial fondness for this character — especially after seeing the delectible Michael Dorn in person in Los Angeles— I was really looking forward to reading something about him. Unfortunately, these weren’t truly Worf stories but more accurately generic Klingon stories. I understand Mister Jan's situation of never having seen the series at the time the stories were written , but it seems to me it would have been better if he had written something similar about some other Klingon. As simply Klingon stories, these tales were wonderfully funny and very well written. But this character just isn't Worf.

My only other complaint is with the "Get Wesley!" section of the zine, and include "All Strung Out" in this category although technically it wasn’t placed there. Actually, I had looked forward to this section, expecting to find something really funny and off-the-wall. I have been as irritated as anyone else by the tendency at the beginning of the season to have Wesley keep saving the ship while all of the professional engineers and bridge crew Just stood around looking stupid. But that wasn’t Wesley’s (or Wil Wheaton’s) fault. That was the fault of the writers, and perhaps Gene Roddenberry as well, who freely admits that he patterned Wesley after his own teenaged dreams of what he would like to be. (In case anyone doesn’t already know, Gene's middle name is Wesley.) Anyway, when I finally received my zine and read the stories, I was very disappointed. Rather than funny and off-the-wall, I found them tasteless and at least bordering on being down¬ right sick. If you decide to continue this section of the zine, please tone the stories down a bit and go for the humorous rather than the graphically violent. It somehow just doesn’t seem to me to be appropriate for Star Trek. This is not the philosophy of Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations, of non-discrimination, and of a better universe ahead that first drew me to Star Trek so many years ago and kept me a fan for so long, even through the many years in which I was unaware of the phenomenon of fan fiction and the wonderful people out there who shared this love with me. Please, let’s get back to that philosophy and drop all of this sick hatred of what is really a rather nice teenaged boy. At least, let's give him a chance, now that Wil Wheaton says he’s not going to save the ship anymore.

While the quality of the writing in this zine was, for the most part, outstanding, I’m sorry to say I can’t say the same about the production quality. My copy arrived with no back cover. No, I don’t mean just no artwork on the back. There was no back cover at all. Just the last page of the zine, which already has been damaged 'as a result of not having a heavier cover behind it to protect it. In addition, Linda Baker’s artwork illustrating my story was printed too far down on the page, completely cutting off her dating of the illustration and leaving the drawing somewhat off-center. I can live with that, but I am especially disappointed over the absent cover, and I don’t know how anyone could package up zines and not notice the absence of a heavier cover.

In addition, while my copy of the zine was missing the back cover, [it] was missing your opening editorial, with all of the pages after that appearing opposite of what they should be, resulting in [Baker's], I thought, outstanding drawing appearing on the wrong side of the page and, therefore, ’bleeding’ into the binding. I don’t know if there’s anything you can do, but I hope you can find away to prevent such screw-ups in the future. I’ve received zines before

with interior pages missing, a pain, but every editor I’ve dealt with has replaced the missing pages. But this is the first time I’ve been missing a cover. How was that missed?

Dear folks at ERIDANI (whatever that means), I just want to say THANK YOU for giving us ST:TNG fans a means to express our ideas and opinions. With the delayed start of the new season, the two-month wait between PocketBook novels (I know I could do a better job), and most especially the departure of Tasha Yar and Doctor Crusher from the series, a medium to try out new stories and survey the opinions of other fans is deeply appreciated. I hope to find more issues of ERIDANI at future conventions.

Now, what did we learn from ERIDANI #1? Well, we learned that many want a Riker-Troi romance, like the idea of Worf expressing "appreciation” for Tasha, want Wesley dead no matter how fantastic of monstrous the means of his demise, and most importantly of all, that this fanzine is incredibly...open-minded in subject matter while keeping a high standard in stories and art. ("The Morning After” blew me away; now, how about a Data-Yar tale called "Awkward Conversation” from someone, human?) However, the "Wesley Crusher Must Die”-type of stories almost make me feel sorry for the brat; be careful, okay? But, all in all, I love this mag and hope to start contributing soon with some Yar stories, death be damned.

Please, I do want the infamous "Get Wesley" section. Next time around, I hope you'll turn it into a "Get Riker" section, as this guy bugs me to no end.

I have just finished reading your ERIDANI 1 zine and found it to be quite good, most notably "Command Image" (by Ann Zewen and Bill Hupe’s] and "Do Androids Dream Electric Nightmares?"

I do, however, have to object to the untitled piece in the "Get Wesley" section graphically describing the torture of Wesley. While I found the other stories in this section to be amusing, I felt that the aforementioned piece was disgusting

and in poor taste. There are laws that prevent me from expressing my thoughts about this particular piece and its author, but I think you get the idea. [Editor: Actually, there are no laws which restrict you from stating your opinions. Please feel free to do so! - RAL] My advice would be to drop the "Get Wesley" section and use the extra space to include more stories like the other two I mentioned. Thank you for allowing me to express my opinion.

I was generally please with the quality of ERIDANI #1, that is, until I got to the final section of vignettes, entitled "Get Wesley." Granted, Wesley Crusher is the least developed and more poorly utilized character of the ST:TNG cast, but what Bill and Ann Hupe, and especially Cyrena White, have done to his character is worse than anything the series has shown him doing.

Zine writers write their stories because they want to handle the characters the way the "official" stories can and/or will not: explore histories and relationships beyond the sparsely established limits of TV or the movies. If they dislike a character or his/her presentation, zine writing is their chance to either comment upon or "explain" the character’s irregularities. Cyrena White’s "Untitled" serves no purpose other than to literally torture and kill a character, in protracted detail. This puts the story on par with the most gratuitous EC horror/ schlock comics of the 1950’s. The appeal of such prurient material is certainly beyond me; while I am not personally offended by graphic violence in most media, I only accept it when there is a legitimate dramatic context.

Perhaps more offensive while being less explicit, is Bill and Ann Hupe’s "One Day on the Set of the Next Generation," in which their target is not Wesley, but Wil Wheaton. Even if Wil had the clout to demand that his character be written the way it was, which is certainly not evinced by numerous articles and interviews from Starlog to TV Guide, there is no reason to assassinate the actor because of his portrayal. This becomes even more odious in light of the redirection of Wesley's character as the first season of ST: TNG progressed and the writing improved.

Even worse than the entire section of stories in ERIDANI #1, however, is the solicitation for more stories in the same vein. I feel that it is counter-productive to good zine writing to encourage fans to concoct sadistic vendettas against an unpopular character. There is nothing funny or clever about such writing.

Editor’s Note: While I might agree with some of what Lawrence has said, I would like to point out that the purchase of the "Get Wesley" section was optional.

More interesting, perhaps is that since the first issue, there seems to be no frenzy of "Get Wesley" writers sending their material in to this office. As this section is being typed, there have been only two such "Get Wesley" stories received, one of which was rejected, and the other one

will be published next issue.

I do feel Lawrence is exaggerating a situation somewhat. The stories were intended to be amusing, not serious. Perhaps the gore was a bit much, but no more so than that one of my favorite scenes from Monty Python and the Holy Grail. In this scene, Arthur does battle with the Black Knight. It is a quick battle, and the Black Knight quickly loses an arm. Blood is spurting everywhere, but the knight says "It’s only a flesh wound."

Now, many I know do not like that scene, because it is gory. Blood is spurting everywhere, much more than even your average Rick Endres novel has. But I can look past the gore.

In the future, we will be holding the "Get Wesley" section to a minimum. If I think it's necessary, it well be offered as either an option (as was the case with the first issue) or as a separate publication. Personally, given the few subs I've received on it I doubt we’11 see anything more than the occasional cartoon.

Issue 2

front cover issue #2 by Christine Myers

back cover of issue #2

flyer for issue #2

Eridani 2 was published in December 1988 and contains 114 pages. It has a cover by Christine Myers.

From the first editorial:

The response to our first issue was overwhelming. Over 400 copies have been printed and distributed to date.

This issue brings forth several new contributors with a wealth of material. I am pleased to introduce a novella entitled, ’’Have You Ever Tasted a Tree?,” by Cyndi Overstreet Bayless. This is the story of the background of Data and his discoverer who is now under arrest. The illustrations were provided by Fan-Q nominee Marie Williams. Last issue, I received a lot of "Get Wesley!” material, to which the response has been rather mixed. For this issue, I received a lot of "Goodbye, Tasha" stories, reflecting on the death of Lieutenant Natasha Yar. I’ve chosen only the best of the ones I received, and offer them to you for your enjoyment. I'm not ashamed to admit that some of these really moved me. The ones I’ve chosen to print were written by Chris Dickenson, Natasha Mohr and Ann Zewen, and were illustrated by Linda Baker, Julie Cesari, Christine Myers and Brenda Perry. I may choose to print additional stories of this type next issue. The input from you readers will determine this.

I'm also pleased to present a rarity. To date, I have received only one Wesley story that didn’t involve killing the kid, and it’s excellent. I liked it so much that I'm opting to share it with you. "A Question of Honor” was written by Joann Serger, who is one of the few Wesley fans I know of. Gennie Summers provided the artwork for the piece.

Lastly, we have a few poems by Chris Dickenson and Natasha Mohr, a front cover by Christine Myer, a back cover by Gennie Summers, letters from the readers (I hope we will continue to receive as many letters for this and future issues as we received for our first issue), and a report on Star Trek: The Next Generation by Ann Zewen. The latter was written in July 1988, so some of the information may be dated, however I thought it worth sharing with you. I would encourage those of you who wish to make comments on the episodes of the series to share them with us in the "Databanks” column. I am interested in printing commentary of the episodes (your opinions and the like) in that part of the zine. You are also invited to respond to other letters (one printed in this issue is liable to raise a few heads) printed in the column, just please avoid using negative remarks against the individual(s) with which you may or may not disagree. Thanks!

I am also still seeking artists and authors for ERIDANI, and will continue to make appeals to those talented individuals to submit their material for our next issue (which will be out sometime in June 1989 at the latest). We’re also looking for articles on the new series, commentary on the new series, reviews of fanzines featuring Next Generation material, and even poetry. I do make one request, however, and that is please, please, enclose a SASE with any and all submissions. My wife and I have just purchased a house, and I must keep all my fannish expenses to a minimum. Thank you!

Well, I guess that's all. I've got a rather controversial editorial at the end of the zine. (Old habits are hard to break!) Enjoy the zine, and please let us know what you think of it, okay?

From the ending editorial:

Here we are, at this writing, on October 15th 1988. The new season has not yet made its debut, and we’ve just learned Whoopi Goldberg will be added to the cast (along with a spacebar called Ten Forward, located in the front of the ship). I’d heard rumors all summers, but I had dismissed them as absurd. It’s time for me to eat crow....but I won’t be dining alone.

In a recent two-hour special, ’’The Star Trek Saga,” Maurice Hurley, one of the executives on Next Trek's staff, stated that he admired Gene Roddenberry for sticking to his guns, and not allowing the Paramount bigwigs to bring in Don Johnson to boost the show’s ratings. It was later in the show that it was officially announced that Vhoopi Goldberg would be joining the cast. So join me, Mister Hurley, in eating some crow, if you will.

They also announced Diana Muldaur will be added as Dr. Caroline Pulaski, the new ship’s chief medical officer. Ho word on how Beverly Crusher will be written out. Also announced: Geordi will be moved to engineering, and Riker will have a greater role in the show as he asserts his position more. Other notions floating around: The bug-things will be back, gross special effects and all—there were a number of letters written to Paramount about the graphic gore in that episode being a bit much for children. Roddenberry, ever so defensive, quickly countered with, "Star Trek is not for children.” And so it goes...

Beverly Crusher’s departure was because the character was developing in the manner the executives would have liked. Unfortunately, no one realized that’s not the fault of the actress; that’s the fault of the writers, and maybe some of them need to join Gates McFadden on the unemployment line. My personal view is that they are replacing an adequate actress with a talented actress, one who might be more emotional rather than whiny (and, boy, won’t that tick off some people!), and at least Wesley can’t go running to Mom everytime the captain wants to wring his neck.

• Captain's Log, Stardate 81788.4, editorial (2)
• Data Banks, letters of comment (3)
• Have You Ever Tasted a Tree? by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("This is the story of Data's encounter with the man who discovered him, an intelligent man, a kind man, but now a man on his way to face trial for treason against the Federation.") (10)
• No Goodbyes by Natasha Mohor ("What compelled Yar to leave her message tape? The author takes a look at her motivations.") (70)
• Fully Functional, poem by Chris Dickerson (73)
• Someone Special by Chris Dickenson ("Reflections of Data's memories of Yar, and what she really meant to him. -- Adult situations.") (74)
• Don't, poem by Natasha Mohr (78)
• Just Good Memories by Ann Zewen ("These are recollections of the command crew as they watch Tasha Yar's message tapes.") (79)
• A Question of Honor by Joann Serger ("Wesley felt like he was trapped in a role imposed upon him by others. But he soon met the daughter of an ambassador whose greatest dream is the freedom he has, and she's willing to risk everything—including her life—to be free.") (88)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed, editorial by Landers (114)
• Artwork by Linda Baker, Julie Cesari, Robert Jan, Christine Myers, Brenda Perry, Gennie Summers, and Marie Williams.

• 

  from issue #2, Marie Williams

• 

  from issue #2, Marie Williams

• 

  from issue #2, Christine Myers

• 

  from issue #2, Christine Myers

• 

  from issue #2, Gennie Summers

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 2

A mixed sampling with an emphasis on Data, Yar and Wesley. In "Have you Ever Tasted a Tree?" Cindi Bayless Overstreet offers a touching look into Data's early contacts with humans. "No Goodbyes,' "Fully Functional" "Someone Special,' "Don't,' and "Just Good Memories" ire all varying accounts of the crew's reactions to the death of Tasha Yar. If you were left wondering what happened after the holodeck memorial service was over, these will give some insight. Poor abused Wesley finally gets a chance not to be such a little Einstein in "A Question of Honor". I found this story hardest to follow, but the ending is sweet. There's also a nicely detailed report of the big Creation Con in L.A. last June with synopses of the cast and creator's remarks. I hate to criticize art because I can't draw worth spit, but....most of the art is mediocre, EXCEPT for a cover portrait of Picard in which those chocolate brown eyes just leap off the page... Ahem. Sorry.

In ERIDANI 2, Cyndi Bayless Overstreet's "Have You Ever Tasted a Tree?" has one or two good moments, although the dialogue and narrative were stilted and the plot and characters weren't as smoothly developed as they could have been. (Some dialogue was downright hokey, actually—the evil Romulan scientist and cohorts come very close to being silly instead of menacing. And Data's constantly calling Christopher Scolby "Scolby" instead of calling him by his first name or Mr. Scolby, is jarring.) The female protagonist is almost a Lt. Mary Sue. But the story is readable.... ERIDANI 2 has a goodcover, a Picard by C. Myers. The rest is so-so, with many portraits in lieu of story illustrations. (In fact, one of the few illustrative pieces, one that accompanies "Starry, Starry Night," turns out to have nothing to do with what's going on in the story! Sigh )

Issue 3

front cover of issue 3, Jeanne Matthews

back cover of issue #3, Jeanne Matthews

flyer for issue #3

Eridani 3 was published in December 1988 (yes, at the same time as issue #2) and contains 108-pages.

The main content is a Data novel called, Starry Starry Night by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet.

The sparse art (made sparser as the art from the front and back covers is repeated as interior art) is by Robert Jan, Jeanne Matthews and Marie Williams.

• Captain's Log: Stardate 101066.4, introduction by Randall Landers (2)
• From the Publisher's Desk, editorial by Bill Hupe (2)
• Data Banks, letters and commentary by readers (3)
• Starry Starry Night by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet (7)

• 

  from issue #3, Jeanne Matthews

• 

  from issue #3, Marie Williams

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 3

A complete Next Generation novel is presented. "Starry Starry Night" written by Cindi Bayless Overstreet and illustrated by Jeanne Matthews, tackles the complexities of love. How will Data deal with such an emotion, and how fir with Aubryance Symarron go to be allowed the freedom of it? I've always found the label "Mary Sue Story" rather degrading, but I suppose this could be considered a wish-fulfillment story. However, it's presented with restraint and a light touch. Data does not act in a manner contrary to that we've seen in the series and Aubryance is given enough layering that one can understand and identify with her situation. Although the illustrations are sparse, they're well done; if you're into Data/Brent Spiner, the cover is worth the price. 108 pgs. Sexual situations, brief nudity.

This novella is adult rated, containing some explicit sex and violence. It is a Next Generation story dealing with the relationship between Data and Ensign Aubyance Symarron, the only female Alvelnean in Starfleet. From a planet where women are the property of their men, she was permitted by her husband to enter the Academy, and on his death she, as a widow, should be free to continue her career in Starfleet. However, her father insists that she is still subject to him, and must return to marry her brother-in-law. Her prospective husband uses the delicate negotiations between Alveinea and the Federation, and his knowledge of her relationship with Data, to compel her obedience.

The great strength of this story is its depiction of Data, who comes across as a gentle, attractive creature constantly striving to learn what he is, and how he relates to those around him. Aubry, the author's own character, is well drawn, and certainly has a considerable degree of strength, as is shown by her success in making the life she has chosen. She fights for what she wants, and only admits defeat when it becomes necessary to save the one she loves.

The problem I have with the story la that yet again it depicts the Federation -and hence Starfleet - as being run by a self-serving group who will sacrifice anyone and anything to achieve a desired end. I don't feel that this type of society will create the Star-fleet we learned to love through the series, and it does weaken a story for me when it depends on such a pessimistic vision of the future.

The other TNG characters appear only briefly, and are not used to their best. I feel that Troi, in particular, would be aware that something is wrong, and would alert Picard, who I certainly do not see as the type of Captain who would allow his crew to be manipulated. Since he cannot, however, realistically be expected to be aware of the problems of every Ensign, it is Troi who has failed. La Forge, who become* involved', is the only other TNG character with any part to play.

Despite its weaknesses, I enjoyed this story; I would recommend It for its portrait of Data, and it fills a gap In the market for anyone looking for a straight adult zine.

Overstreet's long story in ERIDANI 3, "Starry, Starry Night," is a Lt. Mary Sue story (although, since the protagonist is supposed to have a blue cast to her skin, it's easy to start referring to her as "Lt. Mary Blue"...). Neither protagonist nor background nor plot is believable, seeming to strive more for shock value than for logical development. The protagonist, Aubry, is independent, witty, and—of course—beautiful (and blue), and we're told that she escaped from a highly repressive, feudal society to join Starfleet. The only problem with that is, realistically, no world as brutal, insular and restrictive as this one's painted would have produced this individual. A female born and raised in this world simply wouldn't have thought to leave it, would never have thought in terms of escape. Conditioning and control that thorough would've been virtually impossible to overcome. If she were a Starfleet officer, she would be aware that neither Starfleet nor the Federation would encourage or desire that individuals sacrifice themselves in marriage for the sake of bringing a new world into the Federation fold. The plot point doesn't ring true. Neither does the fact that this Starfleet officer is threatened and abused in her quarters on the ENTERPRISE without either effectively defending herself (they don't teach any self-defense or hand-to-hand combat at Starfleet Academy?) or calling for Security. As I said earlier, we seem to be going more for shock value than for believability here.

Just a short letter to let you know how much I appreciated reading my copy of ERIDANI #3. The layout was easy on the eye, and the story made good reading until the ending which I felt was too abrupt. I could see how it could end there with implications as to the aftermath of the death of Rafel (and our heroine’s as well???), but it did feel unfinished. Certainly, it is a story to which a sequel would be quite welcomed. Cyndi Bayless Overstreet should be congratulated with her handling of all the characters except, perhaps, Captain Picard who seemed rather wishy-washy and whom I personally picture as someone quite hard to bend from

his beliefs at all.

I enjoyed reading the letter-column forum also. As a fellow fanzine editor I know that this area is the one that the writers and artists immediately leap to see if anyone actually read or appreciated anything that they have done. And, admittedly, the editors would like to know as well. I must confess to be one of the anti-”Get Wesley" people in that I found his character interesting as the show has gone along. It is developing away from the kid-saved-us-all-again situation that it appeared to be right at the beginning of the series. In fact, I enjoy stories where the Wesley character develops...going from almost precocious (surely people cannot compare him with that terribly precocious Will Robinson from Lost in Space) teenager, to a sensitive, curious, learning young man. I recently got a "Get-Wesley" story submitted to BEYOND ANTARES, but I honestly found that it did not fit within what we publish. It was an amusing SF story mind you.

Anyway, so much for the short letter. Thank you for putting out ERIDANI. There is certainly a need for a straight ST:TNG zine and from what I have seen of it, the stories are mostly well written and entertaining which is as much as any fan can ask.

Cyndi Bayless Overstreet's novella in ERIDANI 3 was an interesting to read. It was really dark in tone — very different from a lot of what you publish. ‘'Enjoy" isn’t quite how I’d describe how I felt about that story...maybe stricken is closer? Anyway, it's closer to real life for a lot of us than we would like to admit. Sigh.

Issue 4

front cover of issue #4

back cover of issue #4, Gennie Summers, also used as interior art

flyer for issue #4

Eridani 4 was published in March 1989 and contains 121 pages.

The art is by Baker, Dixon, Jan, Perry, and Summers.

• Alveda 3 by Ash Hays ("A Picard/Crusher novella. It's the tale of the tragic Alveda 3 colony.")
• Light in the Shadows by Chris Dickenson ("Yar/LaForge story, set shortly after "Hide and Q." An examination of the relationship between the characters.")
• Nothing to Fear by Chris Dickenson ("A story about Wesley's trying to conjure up his worst fears prior to taking the psych-test in "Coming of Age."")
• Untitled by Jackie Edwards ("A steamy Picard/Crusher story. -- Note: Adult situations.")
• Mask of Pretense by Chris Dickenson ("A look at Troi during "Conspiracy" as she pays a visit to one of Starfleet's renowned heroes.")
• Cracker Jack Box by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("Data takes the dreaded psych-test.")

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 4

Most of the stories are very short - ten or fewer pages. There's a story dealing with Geordi's reactions after getting his sight in HIDE AND Q; a two-pager about Wesley wondering what his greatest fear might be; an untitled Picard-Crusher love story; a Troi- Admiral Spock story coming after CONSPIRACY; and a Data gets a psychological test at the Academy. There Is also a reprint of a TNG poll that first appeared in ComLink, and dealt with the first series. THE BIG GOODBYE come out as favorite episode (and JUSTICE least liked), Picard as favourite character (and Riker least favourite). There is one long story in the zine. Fifty years previously, Alveda 3, a colony planet, had suffered from a severe plague. A medical investigation was set up, with continuous funding, and had never been recalled although there had been no cases of plague for many years. Now the Enterprise is called to Alveda 3 to retrieve the surviving two scientists. The Alvedans are not happy about this; the funding has, for many years, cushioned their economy. Alveda 3 is Crusher's home planet and she invites Picard down to visit her home. Certain of the crew also go down on shore leave. And while they are there, the plague recurs. There are a number of stories in Original Trek which depict Spock as a Prince of Vulcan, destined to rule the entire planet (though I have always failed to understand why, in that case, he was over allowed to leave for such a hazardous life as Starshlp officer). This story does much the same for Crusher. It's a good story, and well developed, though I did spot the twist quite early on. I loved the local, intelligent, Verrillhorse - Wikki Is a marvellous character. I could have done without the Crusher-Picard romance, though.

Overstreet does much better with her short story in ERIDANI 4, "Cracker Jack Box." It's about Data's psych-test at the Academy. It's a good idea, and it's handled fairly well, although some tightening up and subtlety would have improved it. Ash Hays' 'Alveda Three," in ERIDANI 4, while not very believable (the plot is contrived, as are some of the relationships), is entertaining. It has a smooth narrative style, a real sense of wit and character in the dialogue, and I quite liked the Verrillhorse, which unfortunately seemed more sensible and intelligent than many of the characters that appear on the show itself.

[Saying she stands by her "honest assessment" about issues #4 and #5]: I regret not having done two things in the aforementioned review. First, I failed to stress how much I liked Overstreet's "Cracker Jack Box." It was a good idea with real thought and observation behind it, exploring a facet of Data's character believably in light of what wo already know of that character. More subtlety in the "antagonists'" portrayal would've made what they were up to less obvious, giving the ending more impact. Second, I should've explained my reaction to the artwork. Most of the artists seem to know how to use a pen, but the art was primarily portraits, nothing more, and most of them from the publicity stills we've seen over and over again. There was nothing of the artists' or writers' vision to be seen in them, no life. Linda Baker's interesting "scribbly" style imparts a certain energy to a drawing, but that energy is dissipated by the static poses. And while I'm free with my criticism of the stories, there are scenes in most of them that would've made for truly dynamic illos. Those opportunities were wasted.

I must pass compliments on to Ash Hays for her story, "Alveda 3" (ERIDANI 4). As a writer of Crusher/Picard stories myself, I was interested to see how someone else approached their relationship. I was pleased to find a really well-written, mature relationship between the two of them. Unlike other stories I have read, Ash Hays’ story worked from the premise she started with: that Beverly and Jean-Luc had found each other and were comfortable in their loving relationship both personally and professionally. Actually, I purchased ERIDANI 4 specifically for that story, and I was not disappointed.

ERIDANI 4 turned out very nice. The quality you’ve been able to maintain and surpass with each issue continues to please and surprise me. Linda Baker’s illos were top notch, especially the cover drawing of Troi. I think it would have looked better with a gray or white backing rather than the manila, but the quality of the illo itself was what I’ve come to expect from the multi-talented Ms. Linda Baker—Terrific!

[Editor’s Note: The official color cover stock for all ORION PRESS publications is tan. On occasion, another color (such as gray) is substituted, but this is the exception rather than the rule.]

"Alveda 3" presented a relationship between Picard and Crusher that I don’t buy except for maybe in Crusher’s fantasies (why should she be any different than the rest of us women?), however, once I accepted the premise for the purpose of the story, I found myself enjoying it. Picard seemed like a fish out of water, floundering uncharacteristically but the rest of the crew seemed to be well portrayed. I also give Ash credit for some interesting characters to support the regulars. The sibling-like relationship between Beverly and Berran struck me as very believable considering the circumstances, and Wikki was a delight! I’d rate Verrillhorses right up there with Horta as damned fascinating sentient beings. Wikki’s sense of humor and maternal pride in "Beverly Ann" was Inspired. Being a reluctant fan of one William T. Riker, I was in stitches over her comment: "I’m sure that rude young man I had to lick was poisonous." Poor Wikki, taste testing first officers just isn’t her cup of tea! Ash created such a vivid picture of Alveda that by the time I was finished with the story I wished I could book passage there for a short shore leave myself.

Jackie Edwards’ Untitled": *sigh* Now that’s my kind of fantasy! I’ve read quite a few Picard/Crusher scenarios lately, and this one rates up there with the best. Picard’s consternation at 20th century feminine clothing was in character: "Dear Lord, woman, what else have you got on under this?" So amusing and perfectly Picard!

Cyndi Bayless Overstreet has done it again in "Cracker Jack Box"! Cyndi can evoke images of Data in away no other writer can. Every word, every gesture is so true. I'd often wondered what Data’s psych exam might have been; now I know. Thanks, Cyndi, for another terrific look at my favorite android.

Just finished ERIDANI 4. It was great! One of the better zines I’ve seen. The novella, "Alveda 3," [by Ash Hays] was very entertaining, I enjoyed all of the stories

I really enjoyed ERIDANI 4... I got [it] just before going to the Smokies, so they went with me! It seemed appropriate to be reading Ash Hays' "Alveda 3" while in the mountains. I enjoyed the story, but a couple of things bothered me. In my opinion. Doctor Crusher cane across as too "giddy" at times. I see Beverly being calmer and more controlled, at least in public (in private, especially with Jean-Luc. she sheds that "Doctor Demeanor"). Picard also seemed a little too relaxed; I couldn't imagine him sitting in that cabin twiddling his thumbs just because Beverly told him to.

Untitled,' by Jackie Edwards - Well, after that great two's company; three's a crowd' shot in The Big Goodbye,' we all wanted to know what happened - here we find out, and everyone stays in character (well, as far as we can in a zine).

'Mask of Pretense," by Chris Dickenson - Great to meet Spock again! (Eventually.) Good set-up and building of tension-interesting having opposites in the same story (Betazeds consider it rude to shield their thoughts; Vulcans insist on it).

'Cracker Jack Box,' by Cyndi Oversteet - Couldn't resist that title. Loved the dialogue - was worried Jim was going to need emergency aid from you know who...

Issue 5

front cover of issue #5, Julie Nosal

back cover of issue #5, Marty Seigrist - " Marty Siegrist’s back cover illo of Data in ERIDANI 5 absolutely blew me away! It is one of the best pictures of Data I have yet to see."

flyer for issue #5

Eridani 5 was published in September 1989 and contains 92 pages.

The art is by Jim Boursaw, Barbara Caldwell, Julie Nosal, Melody Rondeau, and Marty Seigrist.

• From the Editor (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• The Shadow of a Doubt by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet (Winner of a 1990 Fan Q.) ("Data and Yar are brought together into a situation which is deeply trying for each of them. They are forced (with Riker as a cat's paw) into venturing into a degenerate colony city to retrieve a dangerous prize. During their ordeal, they discuss the "Naked Time" and what it truly meant for each other, with some surprising revelations from each of them.") (10)
• The Heart Has Its Reasons by Chris Dickenson ("A look at Doctor Beverly Crusher's departure from the Enterprise and Picard's reaction as well.") (62)
• Shadows in the Soul by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("Data examines his feelings for Yar as Geordi and he discuss her final message. Ironically, Geordi soon learns it is possible that Data actually has more feelings than some of the other Enterprise crew.") (68)
• Brand of Logic by Chris Dickenson (tied for 1990 Fan Q Award for Best Star Trek Story with "On Alien Ground" by Eunice Raymond in Hellguard Social Register) ("An encounter between Data and Spock set as a follow-up to the story, "Mask of Pretense," which appeared in ERIDANI 4. Admiral Spock is aboard the Enterprise, recovering from the insectoid possession of his body, and thereby giving Data an opportunity to discuss the Human equation with one of the few people who had solved it.") (75)
• Of Vain Regret and Friendship Found by Janna Stockinger ("A stream-of-consciousness vignette, giving us insight into Captain Picard's reaction toward his new chief medical officer, Doctor Kathryn Pulaski.") (80)
• The Captain's Woman by Linda Baker and Randall Landers ("A very, very racy mirror universe story revealing how Beverly Crusher managed to return to the U.S.S. Enterprise. It's meant to be both amusing and erotic. -- Note: Adult situations.") (84)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed, editorial by Randall Landers (90)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 5

[Shadow of a Doubt]: Tasha Yar and Data are forced to carry out a dangerous mission on a planet resembling Tasha's war-torn homeworid. Tasha, as usual, whines endlessly about her childhood suffering, and Data grapples with his inferiority complex, taking every real or imagined insult to heart (the natives call him "the walking dead," etc.). The two of them discuss the event that "never happened," and keep each other warm when forced to sleep outdoors. Not the greatest, but has its engaging moments. PG-13 to R, depending upon your standards.

[Shadows in the Soul]: Data has a short discussion on the "semi-human condition" with Mr. Spock, who gives him some words of reassurance and encouragement. Brief, but moving.

[Brand of Logic]: In a conversation with Geordi following Tasha Yar's funeral, Data once again wrestles with an inferiority complex, mopes about being "artificial" (he compares himself with a holodeck image), and wonders if Tasha was ashamed of having been intimate with a machine. To make matters worse, well-meaning Geordi openly scoffs at the idea that such a liaison could have taken place. Well-written and quite touching; contains lines like "the glimmer of stars caught the liquid gold of his eyes." PG.

[zine]: The zine includes several pages of letters of comment, both on earlier Eridani and on TNG itself. There is also an editorial letter which says (among other things) that 'They should stop firing actresses just because the writers are not capable of developing a romance between the current chief medical officer and Captain Picard.' The day they do develop a romance between the CMO and the Captain, I stop watching TNG! The editor - surprisingly, a man - seems to be actively soliciting love stories for future issues. Please, Randy - this is TNG, not The Love Boat!

Roughly two thirds of the zine is taken up by one story - The Shadow of a Doubt by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet, who is a very capable writer. The other stories are short and without much point; scenes rather than stories. There's a Crusher leaves the Enterprise story (with Picard's thoughts on the subject too); Geordi and Data talking after Yar's death (also by Overstreet, this one doesn't really go anywhere); Spock meets Data; Picard's thoughts on Pulaski; and a Mirror universe story where Crusher comes back and kills Pulaski, which at least has the merit of giving Crusher a bit of the oomph she so sadly lacks in the series.

The main story is predominately Yar/Data. The two of them, plus Riker, have beamed down to a colony planet where things are disintegrating; it is fast becoming a planet like the one where Yar grew up. They are captured by a group of local men, and Riker is held as hostage while the other two are sent to the nearby city to contact certain of the inhabitants, from whom they are to collect something to be delivered back to their captors.

I find it slightly incredible that the Federation, with the example of Yar's planet before them, would allow it to happen again to another colony. However, accepting that it has happened, the story develops well. In some ways it is only a vehicle for a growing understanding between Yar and Data and some insight into Yar's background, but the zine is worth getting for this story alone.

[zine]: I received my copy of ERIDANI 5... and I’m just getting a chance to glance through it. I love the new print; it makes a big difference in the overall quality of ERIDANI, don’t you think? And Julia Nosal's portraits are beautiful. I especially liked the front cover. Of course, the back cover is excellent, as well, but Marty’s work is always exceptional. I did get a chance to read "The Captain’s Woman" and got quite a kick out of it. Mirror universe stories give us a chance to experiment like no other universes can, to perhaps explore the darker elements that lurk within our favorite characters.

[zine]: What a lovely portrait from Julie Nosal. I just realized these zines are three years old. Are comments no longer needed? Well, a kind thank you to writers and artists...

'Heart Has Its Reasons.' by Chris Dickenson - I missed the episode about the doctor’s leave-taking. Good reasoning. Sometimes we have to say it's our turn!

'Brand of Logic,' by Chris Dickenson - Spock and Data are fun together. Enjoyed Spock's discovery of Data.

"Shadows of the Soul.' by Cyndi Overstreet - It's lovely listening to these conversations. Gossip (a problem for all times) was well-handled, and characters stayed in place.

The Captain's Woman." by Baker and Landers -- Well. I'm a Picardian, so, of course, I was on the floor howling as I visualized Troi making progress under the tables. Except for Worf, all managed to stay in character (how did they do that?). Even out of character, Worf is the greatest isn’t he?! This type of read is a necessity for me to stay in reality (clue to my world). More, more. more.

Fine portrait of the doctor.

Issue 6

front cover of issue #6, Wendy Prucell

back cover of issue #6, Wendy Prucell

flyer for issue #6

Eridani 6 was published in December 1989 and contains 92 pages.

The art is by Jim Boursaw, David Lawrence, Susan Leinbach, Julie Nosal, Wendy Purcell, Jeanne L. Matthews, and Bonnie Reitz.

From the opening editorial by Landers:

We’ve reprinted [from Comlink #42] "The 1989 COMLINK Star Trek: The Next Generation Survey," compiled by Allyson M.W. Dyar. I find these surveys fascinating, and you can get in on the next one by writing to Allyson. Of course, we always have Data Banks, our letter-col featuring commentary on the previous issues as well as the episodes, and ye editor’s review of the third season to date. We’re already beginning to line up submissions for the next issue, so now is the time to send in that Data-Yar, Geordi-Tsu, or even Worf-Kalar story. Chris Dickenson is still working on the Wesley-Gets-Chewed-Out story, as well as one ... whose idea I really like: Data with his first command. Well, see you later!

The closing editorial includes Lander's reviews of seven third season episodes. It begins with:

For the past five issues, I’ve offered commentary on the newest Star Trek: The Next Generation episodes. The first season was mediocre, the second season was blech. So to my delight and great surprise, this third season has been an answer to the fans’ pleas for quality.

Regarding the letter column:

"Data Banks" is a collection of all the letters of comment we received on our previous issues as well as commentary and criticism on various aspects of the series, Star Trek: The Next Generation. All letters received will be printed unless the author requests otherwise. We invite all readers to let us know what they think of the zine; it is virtually the only reward the contributors will receive for having their work printed. We also invite the readers to join in our open forum of discussion of this series, both the past season and the current season. We’re also looking to print ideas for stories, reviews of other ST:TNG zines, commentaries on episodes and characters, ST:TNG news and information. Letters and articles submitted should include the author’s name and complete address, however, names and addresses withheld upon request.

• Captain's Log, Stardate 121589.6, editorial by Randall Landers (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• Data LoC, cartoon by Susan Leinbach (6)
• Just a Shell by Chris Dickenson ("It tells of Riker's and Worf's tribulations following a shuttle crash on a jungle-covered planet. As they struggle to survive, each must face master their greatest fears.") (8)
• Sweet Are Stolen Waters by Barbara Robertson ("A short vignette has the command crew of the Enterprise encounter a Human cultural scientist eager to return "home" to the Klingons.") (29)
• Belle Dame by Kaye Dunham ("An erotic action-adventure story involving a special Deltan, Chief Medical Officer Beverly Crusher, treacherous Ferengi, kidnaping, Captain Jean-Luc Picard and a culture not accustomed to dealing with any of these things.") (34)
• A Little Culture by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("The warbled strains of "Mary Had a Little Lamb" lead Data through the dense foliage on the Holodeck to a certain blind chief engineering officer and a computer-replicated Stradivarius.") (60)
• Everybody Comes to Guinan's by Barbara Robertson ("A vignette wherein it's the girls versus the boys during your typical evening on the Enterprise.") (66)
• Wishing Tree by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("A short vignette details an amusing encounter between a youthful girl and an android with a slight problem with amnesia.") (72)
• Healing Hands by Ann Zewen ("A vignette which explains Kate Pulaski's drive to be a doctor like her grandfather.") (82)
• The 1989 COMLINK Star Trek: The Next Generation Survey, compiled by Allyson M.W. Dyar (88)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed, closing editorial by Randall Landers (92)

• 

  from issue #6, Susan Leinbach

• 

  from issue #6, Jim Boursaw

• 

  from issue #6, Jim Boursaw

• 

  from issue #6, David Lawrence

• 

  from issue #6, Jeanne L. Matthews

• 

  from issue #6, Jeanne L. Matthews

• 

  from issue #6, Julie Nosal

• 

  from issue #6, Susan Leinbach

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 6

I just got through re-reading ERIDANI 8 and it turned out better than I could ever have hoped for. It's one thing to see the galley proofs spread helter skelter over my kitchen table, and quite another to visualize the finished product. Your editorial choices were sound ones, Randy, and although I will comment on each contributor separately, I must take not from the outset that your experience and judgement is invaluable to bringing all the diverse elements together so perfectly. If I didn't know firsthand all the work that goes into putting together an issue, I would guess it to be mostly effortless. If a job looks that easy, a sure sign that it has been done by a confident and

talented individual.

Congratulations to our cover artist, Julie Nosal for breathing life into two of my favorite characters with her portraits. Both Worf and Q were done with the attention to detail which I have come to expect from Julie. It’s hard to look at one of Julie’s illos and not want to write a story to go with it. They eyes sees to invite that kind of contemplation. The new logo type is so welcome and beautifully done. Steve Dixon is a sweetheart for coming through with consistent lettering for our covers. That kind of continuity is just what our readers have been requesting. Our other artists are no less talented. David Lawrence’s portraiture never fails to impress me. His Troi and Guinan were stand-out perfect in this issue, and his first season Riker also caught my eye as excellent. Barbara Caldwell's amazing ability to do illustrations on such short notice still astounds me. Her illos to "A Question of Competence" and "Say Goodbye" fit the mood of the stories like the final pieces in a jigsaw puzzle, lovely work, as always, Barbara!

Susi Leinbach's toons were hysterical. I especially appreciated "Stop the Music" and ‘Data as a Vulcan.’ Susi's 'toon characters are so expressive, each time I pick them up I have to grin anew. Wendy Purcell’s illo to "A First Time" couldn't have been more perfect. It's a gorgeous portrait, one I can’t stop looking at.

Laura Bickle’s "Say Goodbye" is an incredible first submission. The Riker-Troi relationship is a favorite one for fans to write about, but most pieces I’ve read have struck me as out of character or overly romanticized. Laura balances the relationship like a circus tightrope walker, never faltering from perch to perch to give her audience a smooth performance. The plot is not an afterthought, and I both like and believe in the supporting characters. Once again, when a piece of work appears this effortless, it's a sign of a job painstakingly and skillfully done. I sincerely hope Laura submits to us again!

Cyndi Bayless Overstreet is at her best when she melds the lighter side of life with a twist of the side many authors are too inexperienced to tap into with any great skill. Far too many fan stories are of the 'vanilla ice cream' variety, nothing innovative, nothing to challenge the imagination or spark an emotion. Cyndi's "Touch Me" pokes gentle fun at these fan standards, lulling the reader into expecting something very ordinary. 'Touch Me' resembles an ordinary Data story about as such as a Baskin Robbins banana split resembles a Dairy Queen sundae.

Kim Junius is another name which sets up certain expectations in my mind. I don't always agree completely with Kim’s characterizations outside the boundaries of her POEMS, PRAYERS AND PROMISES universe, but there’s no one who can write about Beverly Crusher with the kind of love and attention to detail that Kim considers a matter of course. As I read 'It was a Very Good Year,' I caught myself wondering if other Trek writers would admit to my envy of Kim's ability to paint such vividly beautiful pictures with her words. Kim’s Russ reminds me of Cyndi's Data in that both authors have a body and soul awareness of their character which transcends casual observation. Any writer can describe what a character does, it takes a real author to tell us what the character is. Admittedly, Kim doesn’t write Beverly Crusher the way I would, but her Beverly is always a viable one, and Kim is consistently true to the characters as she sees then. 'It was a Very Good Year' also introduces to ERIDANI readers a character so real, I can hear her voice in my mind. Caroline Wesley is a multifaceted individual conceived from a throw away line from 'Arsenal of Freedom,' proof positive for anyone who needs it that Kim Junius is one of fandom’s finest talents.

Ann Zewen’s 'Rescue' had me laughing out loud. The issue sorely needed some conic relief, and the images Ann evoked were so close to slapstick comedy that one could interchange Riker, Data, and Worf as the Marks Brothers or the Three Stooges. Ann managed this delightful feat without once breaking character, not an easy task.

'Mourning Star' by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet brought a lump to my throat and tears to my eyes. I had the same reaction to 'The Offspring,' so I was gratified to see a postscript that mirrored the mood so beautifully. I think Cyndi's theory about Data's programing is a sound one, and I'd like to see it incorporated into an episode someday. At the very least, perhaps it will be destined to become ERIDANI canon. Cyndi's Guinan is right on target. Wise, kind and enigmatic. 'Mourning Star' was a perfect ending to a perfect zine. Not a bad apple in the bunch.

Issue 7

front cover of issue #7, Marty Siegrist

back cover of issue #7, Tanje

flyer for issue #7

Eridani 7 was published in March 1990 and contains 118 pages.

The art is by by Michelle Benoit, Barbara Caldwell, Janet D'Airo, Susan Leinbach, Marty Siegrist, and Tanje/Janet Wells.

• Hailing Frequencies Open (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• Birds of a Feather by Marianne Morici ("This is a humorous look at a situation suggested by a line from the episode "Angel One." It's set back when Riker and Geordi were serving aboard the U.S.S. Victory, and details the trouble one Federation agent can cause (and you thought Kllngon agents were a problem!).") (10)
• The Voice by Lori Scott ("This story delves into the psyche of Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the man, the friend, who meant so much to him.") (16)
• Time for Beverly by Marnita Howald ("A story set shortly after Doctor Beverly Crusher's return to the Enterprise, and it details the developing relationship between Captain Jean-Luc Picard and herself.") (36)
• Nuisance by Janna Stockinger ("A Picard-Data story which is set very shortly after "The Measure of a Man." The presence of a guest in the captain's quarters provokes a metaphysical discussion.") (42)
• Cartesian Dilemma by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("An examination of the relationship between Doctor Kate Pulaski and Data, and it reveals to us the reason why Pulaski chose to leave the Enterprise.") (58)
• On the Carpet by Chris Dickenson ("...who took a running joke as a commandment. I've been promising a Wesley-gets-chewed-about-the-Nanites story since my review of "Evolution." Well, I'd intended that to be a joke, one akin to one running in ORION (we've been promising a Scotty-as-an-alcoholic story for that zine since 1981). Guess what? The joke's on me, since Chris wrote the Wesley-gets-chewed-out story for us, except that the joke's on me again. Read it, and see if you think Chris has had the last laugh...as a teacher, I certainly think she has.") (104)
• Physician's Touch by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("This short story relates a special encounter between Data and Beverly Crusher as he shuttles her back to the Enterprise.") (108)

• 

  from issue #7

• 

  from issue #7

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 7

....You have a fine zine. Incidentally, please tell Marty Siegrist that his cover sketch for ERIDANI 7 is simply excellent.

Issue 8

front cover of issue #8

back cover of issue #8

flyer for issue #8

Eridani 8 was published in June 1990 and contains 111 pages.

The art is by Barbara Caldwell, David Lawrence, Susan Leinbach, Julie Nosal, and Wendy Purcell.

• Hailing Frequencies Open, editorial (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• A Question of Competence by Chris Dickenson ("A Data-in-command story.") (13)
• Say Goodbye by Laura Bickle ("A Riker/Troi story.")
• Touch Me by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("A story about a young woman and an android on a planet.") (38)
• It Was a Very Good Year by Kimberley Junius ("A story about a very difficult time in the life of one teenager named Beverly Crusher.") (75)
• A First Time by Chris Dickenson ("A short story set in the "Yesterday's Enterprise" alternate timeline.") (81)
• Rescue by Ann Zewen ("Commander William T. Riker's having one of those days.")(84)
• Mourning Star by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("A Data story set just after "Offspring."") (102)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed (110)

• 

  from issue #8

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 8

One of the most enjoyable aspects of reading several issues of a fanzine is seeing how the zine and its contributors' work evolve over time. Eridani 8 is the eighth (surprise) in a series of ST:TNG zines from Orion Press, with respect to the fiction, Eridani 8 is an improvement over most of its predecessors... The "Letters of Comment" section is a standard feature in Eridani, and one of which I heartily approve. Editorials are also a standard feature; this one consists primarily of short "blurbs" for the zine contents, more appropriate to a pro novel than to a fan publication. It leaves the uneasy impression that this is less a labor of love than a hard-sell marketing endeavor aimed at a market that isn't too ight-bray. Visually, Eridani 8 is unimpressive. There are four excellent cartoons by Susi Leinbach, whose style is polished, elegant and expressive, but the bulk of the serious artwork is portraiture, the exception being some of the illos by Barbara Caldwell. While Barbara's likenesses are primitive, her action illos have life and energy, showing a good eye for composition and a sense of drama. The front and back cover are pencil portraits by Julie Nosal. I can't tell if it's poor screens, faulty reproduction, or a problem with the original sketches, but they look a little ragged and washed out, especially the front cover. The portraits by David Lawrence, whose likenesses are excellent, and whose pen and ink style is clean and direct, don't relate at all to the action of the stories they accompany. They give the impression they were done en masse and simply dropped in near a page where that character's name appears. In the piece by Wendy Purcell, the delicate pen and ink stippling of her subject is overpowered by the stronger, more forceful background, but at least she attempted to do something with her portrait to relate it to the story it accompanies... The graphics are boring. The typeface is clear and readable, and the editor gets a passing grade for neatness, but no effort is made to make this zine visually appealing, a drawback it shares with its predecessors (and with other Orion Press publications--there's a certain lack of individuality from one zine to the next). All titles in Eridani are done in the same unattractive, obviously computer-generated style, and captions and other headings are in the same typeface as the text. The cartoon captions are, well, stuffy (and redundant, since art credits can be found on the title page). Cartoons are frequently reduced to the point where repro suffers (as with Susi's 'toon on page 37), or left so large that the lines run off the edge, leaving no margins to frame them on the page. These problems are correctable. To fix them in future issues would not take vast outlays of cash. It wouldn't even require vast expenditures of time. It would, however, require thought, and care, and a sense of what is owed the writers and artists who've entrusted their work to the editor. Not to mention the readers, who deserve the very best 'product* possible for their hard-earned cash. While I wouldn't recommend Eridani to anyone whose taste runs to strongly developed themes and characters, I would recommend it to a ST: TNG fan, since, as of this writing, it's possibly the best ST:TNG fiction zine available (not high praise, given what's out there). And once in a while, in a story passage that captures the imagination, or in a piece of artwork that tickles the funnybone or captivates the eye, I can see what this fanzine could become.

Issue 9

back cover of issue #9, Julie Nosal

front cover of issue #9, Julie Nosal

flyer for issue #9

Eridani 9 was published in September 1990 and contains 111 pages.

The art is by by Michelle Benoit, Barbara Caldwell, Steven K. Dixon, David Lawrence, Susan Leinbach, Julie Nosal (front and back covers), and Gennie Summers.

• Hailing Frequencies Open (2)
• DataBanks (3)
• To Care for Someone by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("A tale of Data and Troi which picks up where "Tin Man" left off and carries the two characters into previously unexplored waters.") (6)
• [http://eridani.dyndns.org/eridani.php?menu=PZ&actie=verhaal&id=39 Dessert by Chris Dickenson ("A Riker/Troi story which is set right after Jean-Luc Picard beams down for "Captain's Holiday." Riker and Troi are relieved to have convinced the captain to beam down, that is until the truth in Troi's threats is known.") (20)
• Exactly What Happened by Denise Hays ("A follow-up story to "The Most Toys" and delves into how Data comes to terms with nearly killing Fajo. Geordi and Picard are there to help him on this path of discovery.") (24)
• A Little More Time by Janna Stockinger ("A sequel to "Where No One Has Gone Before." Data was contemplating his lack of experiencing the apparitions at the end of the universe until he encountered her.") (31)
• The Book by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("A wonderful romp with a heavy emphasis on Picard and Crusher It details a not so nice day in the life of a certain starship captain.") (41)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed (84)

• 

  from issue #9, Barbara Caldwell

• 

  from issue #9, David Lawrence

• 

  from issue #9, Gennie Summers

• 

  from issue #9, artist unclear

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 9

Eridani must be produced on a rigid budget that prohibits its editor, Randall Landers, from using any form of reproduction or resources that would allow for attractive covers. Perhaps this budget is also the editor's excuse for not bothering to pursue some really fine-quality cover art, since he knows he couldn't do it justice in repro, anyway. Money would be the only pardonable reason for mediocre art to be reproduced in such a shoddy manner—front and back cover, three consecutive issues, so this must be standard. Next, I scoped for inside graphics content, and found that none really existed. Although the text is cleanly and neatly printed, the overall layouts are as boring as the phone book—no design to speak of. Even if there is a budget, there'd be no insurmountable cost involved in simply varying the page layout now and then. Editor Landers does not appear to know how to showcase a story in order to make it visually stimulating. Graphically, Eridani shows all the imagination of a junior high school publication. There's not even a burst of innovation where titles are concerned. In fact, they don't even look like scalable fonts—the pixels look enlarged, rather than increased. Also, while it may be true that most fans wear glasses, that compressed font for LoC replies and other editorial comments is a real killer. If Mr. Landers presumes that his comments are worth any attention, let him present them legibly. And although I am already feeling like one of the few who observe the Emperor's nakedness, I must insist that endless portraiture does not illustration make... In all fairness, I want to add that the Caldwell art was quite good and shows a lot of promise. The story content does not well reflect the editorial staff's ability to select worthy contributions. Eridani 9 suffers from a preponderance of stories that read like tacky romance novels. Indeed, many are not even stories—excuse me, but stories have beginnings, middles, and endings—but merely vignettes and end-wraps of episodes. I did get a chuckle out of "The Book," by Jo-Ann Lassiter, because I just plain liked the mawkish little tale about The Gang's attempt to pleasantly surprise Picard. It suffered from a bit too much hither and yonning, something a deftly-wielded editorial red pencil could've fixed. And we should mourn for the illos it could have generated that we'll never see.

From the steamy foreplay of Data and Troi in the opening story to the blunders and highjinks in the concluding story, Endani 9 is a very pleasurable read. I wasn't expecting much in a romantic encounter between Data and Troi, but Cyndi Bayless Overstreet's To Care For Someone (12 pgs) was a delight. This is a short post-Tin Man story that picks up on the final scene in which we see Data and Troi staring out the observation deck windows at the organic ship known as Tin Man. For those who don't recall, Data discovers that finding a place where one belongs and cares for others is an important fact of being Human, The remarkable accomplishment of this story is that after 3 years together without any hint at intimacy between Data and Troi, Ms. Overstreet has established credible motivations for their romantic encounter.

Since I haven't seen Captain's Holiday, the episode upon which it is based, I don't feel I can comment adequately on Dessert (3 pgs). But from what I've read of Chris Dickenson's work I expect to enjoy it once I can read it in the light of the events which precede it.

Denise Hay's, Exactly What Happened (5pgs) was the least pleasing of this issue's offerings, largely because I don't subscribe to the view that Data's attempted killing of Fajo was a preventative execution. The story takes place after the events in The Most Toys. During a debriefing of the command crew about the events which took place on Fajo's ship, Data admits to pulling the trigger and tries to justify his actions. A particularly annoying aspect of the story is Geordi's melodramatic attempt to get Data to speak about the event.

A Little More Time (8 pgs), by Janna Stockinger, is a nice look at Data and his remorse at not having childhood memories. Following the events depicted in Where No One Has Gone Before, Data spends some time in the hoiodeck wondering why he was not affected by the space/time at the end of the universe that caused so many of his crewmates to experience things from their past. Bringing back Picard's mother to console him is a nice touch on the author's part, chough the means are a bit contrived: there just happens to be a bubble or pocket of the space/time encountered at the end of the universe left floating around the holodeck? Sure.

I wasn't expecting much from The Book (35 pgs) since I found Jo-Ann Lassiter's More Than Friends in Eridani 10 such a disappointment. The latter had such a ponderous tone, was weak in plot, and was not, that well written, All [unclear word] which I had no complaints with in The Book. The story's title refers to a gift the Enterprise crew wants to give Picard for the third anniversary of the launching of the Enterprise's five year mission. The problem is the Captain already owns the book; it's an original edition that Geordi wants to repair. Before he can do that however the crew has to arrange to "steal" it from the Captain's quarters. The story is a delightful romp that had me laughing out loud at times, the writing style is economical and the plot and characters are well developed. She also makes the direct reportage of her characters' thoughts work in this story, since she uses them sparingly and when the information is relevant, which is exactly what I thought she failed to do with the convention in More Than Friends.

Barbara Caldwell's illustrations in ERIDANI 9 were very nice — particularly the Data that accompanied the post-"Most Toys" (that sounds like a breakfast cereal, doesn’t it?) vignette. If she keeps this up, she's going to be a truly first-rate illustrator in the not-too-distant future.

From the steamy foreplay of Data and Troi in the opening story to the blunders and high jinks in the concluding story, ERIDANI 9 was a very pleasurable read.

I wasn't expecting much in a romantic encounter between Data and Troi, but Cyndi Bayless Overstreet's "To Care for Someone" was a delight. After three years without any hint at intimacy between the two, Ms. Overstreet was able to establish credible motivation for their encounter in the observation deck. (Are these the kind of stories being published in IDYLLS? If so, I'd like to read an issue.)

Since I haven't seen the episode upon which it is based, I don’t feel I can comment adequately on "Dessert. But from what I've read of Chris Dickenson’s work, I expect to enjoy it once I can road it in light of the events which precede it.

Denise Hays’ "Exactly What Happened" was the least pleasing of this issue's offerings, largely because I don’t subscribe to the view that Data's attempted killing of Fajo was a preventative execution. Moreover, Geordi’s attempt to get Data to speak about the event was too melodramatic.

"A Little More Time," by Janna Stockinger, was a nice look at Data and his remorse at not having childhood memories. Bring back Picard’s mother to console him was a nice touch, though the means were a bit contrived, There just happens to be a bubble or pocket of the space/time encountered at the end of the universe floating around in the holodeck? Sure. I wasn’t expecting much from "The Book" since I found Jo-Ann Lassiter’s "More Than Friends in ERIDANI 10 such a disappointment. The latter had such a ponderous tone, was weak in plot, and was not that we11 written, all faults which I had no complaints with in "The Book." The story was a delightful romp that had me laughing out loud at times, the writing style was economical, and the plot and characters were well developed. She also makes the direct reportage of her characters’ thoughts work in this story since she uses them sparingly and when the information was relevant, which was exactly what I thought she failed with the convention in "More Than Friends. Congratulations and thanks to Jo-Ann for such a delightful story.

Issue 10

back cover of issue #10, Julie Nosal

back cover of issue #10, Julie Nosal

flyer for issue #10

Eridani 10 was published in October 1990 (yes, the same month as issue #9) and contains 105 pages.

Most of its content is a novel by Jo-Ann Lassiter called, "More Than Friends."

The art is by Michelle Benoit, Barbara Caldwell, Gennie Summers, and Julie Nosal.

The editor was Randall Landers, the senior consultants were Chris Dickenson and Linda Marcusky, and the publisher was Ann Zewen.

• Hailing Frequencies Open (2)
• DataBanks, letters of comment (3)
• More Than Friends, fiction by Jo-Ann Lassiter (4)
• Star Trek: The Next Generation, con report by Chris Dickenson (Creation Con annual Creation Con Salutes Star Trek, June 23-24, 1990, Los Angeles Airport Hilton, see excerpts from that report here) (104)

• 

  from issue #10, Gennie Summers

• 

  from issue #10, Gennie Summers

• 

  from issue #10, Barbara Caldwell

• 

  from issue #10, Michelle Benoit

• 

  from issue #10, Michelle Benoit

• 

  from issue #10, Gennie Summers

• 

  from issue #10, Barbara Caldwell

• 

  from issue #10

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 10

Jo-Ann Lassiter's "More Than Friends," a Picard/Crusher novella, and the sum of Eridani 10, strikes a particularly inept note. It's so typical of the fan writer who needs to turn a potentially strong regular female character into the penultimate Mary Sue, who can alternately simper when threatened and bark orders at the Captain, and even bash in the skull of a marauding beast to defend her beloved, all on telegraphed cue. Benoit's art did nothing to bolster this flagging attempt at literature. Recognizable likenesses are not necessarily good ones. The story wanders redundantly through an alien doublecross from which Picard and Crusher need to escape, a pale redux of the eternal, and usually pointless, "hurt/comfort" theme... One cannot help but reason that the seemingly endless time Picard and Crusher spend on the run from their erstwhile captors was meant for them to share poignant confidences, but that never quite happens, even after she saves the deathly ill Captain from attack. Alas, even the introduction of almost angelic intervention does not help to perk up this essentially lifeless tale that does finally end with total predictability. No surprises, no rushes, nothing. Not even vanilla ice cream—more like ice milk. We can only hope that it was criminal trees that were executed to provide the stock for this volume.

ERIDANI 10: More Than Friends could have been improved by better editing. The large chunk of the middle text was redundant; it didn’t help to move the story forward. I guess Ms. Lassiter was attempting to develop the Picard/Crusher relationship (thus the title), but what I read instead was about 60 pages of Picard in various stages of pain and unconsciousness wandering around a cave with Beverly trailing after him like a mother hen. Nothing of importance happened until they discovered the alien intelligence, but that didn’t occur until 90 pages into the text, or 60 pages after they first entered the caves. Another annoying thing about this story was Ms. Lassiter's use of direct reportage of the characters' thoughts. It was often unnecessary, and almost

Chris Dickenson's comments in ERIDANI 10 demonstrate her loyalty to her fellow ERIDANI staffers and contributors, if nothing else. How¬ ever, since she is a staffer, was it appropriate to call this a LoC? It might have been more accurate to call it an editorial. Also, since it was from a staffer, perhaps a bit more work on the spelling and grammar would have been in order. Good luck with your publishing endeavors.

Issue 11

front cover of issue #11, Julie Nosal

back cover of issue #11

flyer for issue #11

Eridani 11 was published in October 1990 and contains 110 pages.

The art is by Michelle Benoit, Barbara Caldwell, Janet D'Airo, David Lawrence, Martin, M.J. Millard, Christine Myers, and Julie Nosal.

• Indestructible in the Race by Jeanne-Marie Martin ("A look at how Beverly Crusher and Jean-Luc Picard cope with the loss of their mutual friend, Walker Keel.")
• Nothing Like the Real Thing by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("Captain Picard is plagued by a time-spanning entity. It's an intriguing concept.")
• A Matter of Minutes by BEKi ("One of the best Riker stories we've had the pleasure of printing. It's a compelling story as Will Riker struggles to survive a cave-in.")
• Reciprocity by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("Worf comes to grip with the injuries inflicted on one of his comrades.")
• Shards by Janna L. Stockinger ("A wonderful story of how Picard and Data are struggling to survive in a holodeck taken over by a geological phenomenon.")
• Heart Sounds by E. Brooks ("A look at Picard's near-fatal encounter with the Nausicaans, and how it affected more than just his life.")
• Lesson Learned — Maybe by Barbara J. Caldwell ("A Beverly Crusher story wherein she deals with Chief O'Brien's male ego.")
• Why Riker Never Wants the Captain to Lead the Away Team by Susan Deborah Smith ("Captain Picard is paired up with Deanna Troi in this adventure.")

• 

  from issue #11

• 

  from issue #11

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 11

This issue of Eridani, a TNG zine published by Orion Press, is composed of three short stories and several vignettes. Quality of the stories and writing range from excellent to average. Subject matter is varied, including a P/C, P/T, Riker, Worf, and Data stories.

'Indestructible in the Race' by Jeanne-Marie Martin is a vignette that takes place after the events depicted in "Conspiracy." Dr. Crusher and the Captain try to come to grips with the passing of their old friend Walter Keel, captain of the Horatio. It's very difficult to say anything about vignettes without giving everything away, but suffice it to say that Ms. Martin seems to have captured the essence of the characters in their thoughts and words.

Once again. Captain Picard is disabled in Jo-Ann Lassiter's 'Nothing Like the Real Thing' and spends most of the story in a horizontal position This is the third story of Ms Lassiter's I've read in as many volumes of Eridani and I'm growing weary of seeing the captain laid waste. In 'The Book' (Eridani 9), Picard is unconscious throughout most of the story due to a faulty injection given him by Dr. Crusher, and in 'More Than Friend' (Eridanai 10), the captain is incapacitated by a rare virus. In this outing, a time traveling entity is responsible for scrambling Picard's mind and replacing him with an alternate-dimension version of himself. The Picard that appears in our "normal" dimension is not unlike the captain we know, except that he is able to express his love for Beverly. Ms. Lassiter is obviously fascinated with the Picard-Crasher relationship, particularly where the captain is defenseless and must be protected by the doctor. The theme is poignant and interesting, but it's beginning to become trite with this reader....

The meaning of friendship, sacrifice and death are the subjects of BEKI's 'A Matter of Minutes' and Janna L Stockinger's 'Shards,' the two best stories in this collection in the latter Riker is caught in a cave in during and Away Team assignment, and the Captain and crew, unable to use the transporter due to magnetic fluctuations caused by ore deposits in the cave, must struggle to free him before he suffocates.

In 'Shards', Data creates a holodeck simulation of a crystal cave based on a small sample of a rare crystal found by a recent Away Team Though he has taken precautions to prevent rapid growth in the crystal by modifying the holodeck environment, unfortunately for the Captain, experiment gels out ol control and the crystal begins growing over the holodeck walls, sealing the two in a crystalline coffin As the crystals continue, to expand their sharp edges encroach on the small space left to Data and Picard, threatening their lives. Riker begins hallucinating and relives a childhood accident in which he nearly froze to death in the frigid waters of Alaska, while Picard confronts his death in a manner fitting a stoic intellectual reciting poetry. But it is Data's selflessness and sacrifice in 'Shards' that was the most touching reaction of all. (If you want to know what it is, you'll have to read the story or write me a letter ).

These two stories are worth the price of admission for the well considered and thoughtfully rendered characterizations of Riker, Data, and (to a lesser degree) Picard.

'Heart Sounds' by E. Brooks is an average adventure story which tells the tale Picard never revealed to Wesley on their long shuttle ride to Starbase 515 in 'Samaritan Snare'. If you remember, it was in a fight with a gang of Norsiccans that Picard's heart was pierced by a knife and later replaced with an artificial one. I can't say I blame Ms Brooks for disliking her story, for she was only working with what was presented in the series. But I have a hard time believing that Picard could have once been an arrogant and loudmouthed trouble-maker. People change, but I just don't see our mild, thoughtful captain being the one to pick a fight just for the sake of it.

If you're like me, you'd love to see Riker get his face rubbed in his own cockiness and self-assurance. Unfortunately, you won't read about it in Barbara Caldwells 'Lesson Learned - Maybe.' Caldwell instead picks on our poor Transporter Chief Miles O'Brien. I never saw the character as sexist or lacking in humility but apparently Ms Caldwell has and in this vignette, Dr Crusher takes the poor loser to task by beating him in both poker and billiards. I think the story would have worked better with Riker, who seems to be driven by competition and who would in all probability not lose gracefully to a woman.

'Why Riker Never Wants to Be Captain to Lead the Away Team' by Susan Deborah Smith is a cute little ditty about an Away Team mission gone awry. The Captain and Troi are stranded in what appears to be a very primitive village, cut off from communicating with the Enterprise by foul weather and magnetic conditions and a faulty communicator. The title refers to more than the bungled mission, but you'll have to read it to know why.

Overall, I would have to say this edition of Eridani is of average quality and interest, largely because I'm tired of reading Ms Lassiter's P/C stories, and because of the four vignettes which never seem to satisfy my reading appetite. However BEKI's 'A Matter or Minutes', and Ms Stockinger's 'Shards' made up for the other short comings of this collection and are well worth checking out.

I just finished ERIDANI 11 and my compliments to all the excellent writers and artists. Talent above talent. Barbara Caldwell is not only an exceptional artist] but her story, ’’Lessons Learned..."so such fun. Well written.

One of these days I fully intend to write a real, honest-to-goodness LoC, but for right now, I just want to let you know how much I’ve enjoyed reading ERIDANI. I’ve been hooked ever since the first issue, and in my humble opinion, it just keeps getting better all the time. You've done a beautiful job of producing a first-rate zine. The artwork is always excellent, and the fiction never fails to impress me. You have a wonderfully talented bunch of regular contributors. Do whatever you have to (short of cracking a bullwhip) to encourage these folks to keep on turning out more of this fantastic material. I'm afraid that I’m one of those Next Generation fans who just can't get enough!

ERIDANI 11 was excellent. I especially enjoyed "Shards" by Janna Stockinger, and "A Matter of Minutes" by BEKi. I’m looking forward to reading more of their work.

I don't usually write LoCs, but I did want to write in with some comments on ERIDANI 11: First of all, I loved the covers. The Data was excellent, but it was the Geordi on the back cover which really caught my eye. I haven’t seen many illos of Geordi which did him justice, but

Myers' illos for "Shards.” Michelle Benoit’s 'toons were a riot — especially the Energizer bunny. (That little sucker shows up everywhere, doesn't he?) Barbara Caldwell's illos for "A Matter of Minutes" were a little dark for my taste, but they fit the mood of the piece and were well done nonetheless.

Now for the exceptions I mentioned earlier...I don't mean to be unkind. I realize it takes a lot of time and effort and love to draw illos, but I really don't think Jeanne-Marie Martin's illos were up to ERIDANI's standard. Granted, it's hard to stand next to Barbara Caldwell or Christine Myers and still look good, but there still has to be a point where the editor says, “This just doesn't make it." Martin's Illos, in my opinion, just didn't make it. Maybe with time and practice, they will improve.

As for the stories, I like "Lesson Learned — Maybe." It's a nice little Beverly story where she isn't a spineless, mewling wimp. (Thank goodness!) I liked the interplay with O'Brien; I’m really surprised fans have not done more with his character.

I also enjoyed Susan Deborah Smith's "Why Riker Never Wants the Captain to Lead the Away Team." What I thought was interesting was the alienness of Deanna's thinking. So often, people just think aliens (even Betazoids) are odd-looking Humans. But it's nice when an author acknowledges the difference in values, sexual mores and attitudes towards relationships. I think Smith has an interesting line into the Betazoid mentality; I hope she continues developing it.

Issue 12

front cover of issue #12, Julie Nosal

back cover of issue #12, portrait of Wesley Crusher, by Julie Nosal

flyer for issue #12

Eridani 12 was published in March 1991 and contains 142 pages.

It was a 1992 FanQ winner, despite the fact Randall Landers declined the nomination.

The art is by Julie Nosal, Barbara J. Caldwell, Janet D'Airo, Michelle Benoit, and Julie Nosal.

• Enemies, a novella by Barbara J. Caldwell ("An ambitious mix of Romulans, Klingon renegade invasions, political intrigue and heavy explosives keep Worf and Beverly Crusher on their toes when they find themselves stranded on the planet Spica III.") (67 pages)
• Now If I Carry Out This Oath by Jeanne-Marie Martin ("A post "High Ground" story. In this tale, Beverly Crusher, safe again after her ordeal on Rutia, must deal with the repercussions of her refusal to follow Picard's orders.") (13 pages)
• Future Ghosts by Michelle Benoit ("A post-"Reunion" tale, and the topic seems to be both a timely and popular one.") (6 pages)
• Endings by Mary Soon Lee ("A tantalizing glimpse into the last vestiges of the Jelenan civilization on Outrier III and its effect on Kate Pulaski, former C.M.O. of the Enterprise.") (16 pages)
• A Father Takes Leave of His Son by Susan Deborah Smith ("Another beautifully written post-"Reunion" story. (I told you it was a popular topic.)") (7 pages)
• Mttah by Mary Soon Lee ("A powerfully written first contact Riker-LaForge story with a refreshingly alien perspective.") (10 pages)
• Where the Heart Is by Chris Dickenson. A story that fills in a few of the unanswered questions many had after meeting Worf's parents in "Family."") (15 pages)

• 

  from issue #12

• 

  from issue #12

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 12

See reactions and reviews of Endings.

"Enemies"— My copy had a major mistake in it. Part of pages 39-41 ended up on pages 19-21 as well as where they were supposed to be! I finally realized it was a paste up or a typing boo-boo! At first it was so confusing I almost stopped reading the story! That would have been a mistake—the story was great).

I loved the Romulan doctor (couldn’t Bev have kissed him just once—what a hunk!). The interaction between Beverly and Worf was wonderful, something we don’t see much of on the show. It was nice to see that Bev can fight when necessary, and that she can readily command when necessary. Again, something I'd like to see on the tube!

"Now If I Carry Out This Oath" — I’m glad someone addressed this issue! I wondered how she kept getting away with "murder" and no one saying much about it.

“Future Ghosts" —T his was very poignant, and I feel very true. I believe Worf had a hard time dealing with K’Ehleyr’s "Human" side and with his very "Human"-like son. I do hope he will take the boy back when he’s older!)

"Endings" — I don’t buy the premise, but an interesting story nonetheless. I enjoyed Data’s "possessed" dialogue. I wish it had been a little less mysterious at to what was causing the mayhem!

"A Father Takes Leave of His Son" — Another good look at Worf and his Human family and his son. Worf’s parents are the greatest!!

"Mttah" — Hmmmm. I'm not sure about this one. I loved the very original aliens. But the primitive mate and kill routine? Ugggh! And the "If you’re not telepathic, you are a lesser being" was used in "Metamorphosis," by Jean Lorrah. I would have loved to see the avian aliens illustrated!

"Where the Heart Is" — The best Worf story in the issue! My favorite of the zine. I can really see all this happening. Just this way. I adore Sergey and Helena! Worf was really fortunate that they took him in — it’s good to see a story where he realizes this.

Well, it was basically a Worf and Beverly issue. Still, I enjoyed it very much (except for the mess-up in "Enemies”).

ERIDANI 12 was one whopper of an issue. The back cover of Wesley was absolutely stunning! I would have liked to have seen it as the cover, though. I think Wesley's come along way, and most people wouldn't object to seeing his illo featured prominently. I had Trek and non-Trek friends who were just drooling over it.

So much for teenage lust — onto the stories.

Enemies, by Barbara Caldwell, was a great action/adventure story. I like Crusher a lot, but get fed up with all the P/C, so this story really gratified me. Crusher's got a lot of potential as a strong character, and I's glad to see there are authors that realize there's more to her than just Jean-Luc! I also liked Worf’s having to deal with his hatred of Romulans. I hope we get an episode like this soon. The artwork was especially attractive for this piece -- did I mention I liked Romulans? The story had just a few minor problems with mechanics, most obviously the placement of commas (I assume you've realized something want wrong with the computer and misplaced a whole section).

"Now If I Carry Out This Oath,” by Jeanne-Marie Martin, left me a little frustrated, even though it was well-written and interesting. I know Picard would have chewed Crusher out for breaking the Prime Directive, but he would have taken the responsibility himself, rather than blaming her, even initially. Crusher's stubborn determination to take care of people in need is what makes her such a good C.M.O. She may forget the rules sometimes, but her reflexes are right.

Mary Soon Lee’s "Endings" was intriguing. I, like our good captain, am fascinated by archaeology. Those strange animal sculptures were wonderfully eerie. However, I think the story could have gone a little further, especially in dealing with why Pulaski left the ship.

Lee’s second story, "Mttah," played the old switcheroo, written from the point of view of the aliens, a technique I really like. The flying creatures ware suitably bizarre and strange enough to be interesting. The only flaw I saw was that the author explained some things that she should have shown, perhaps with the thought processes of the aliens.

I really enjoyed "A Father Takes Leave of His Son," by Susan Deborah Smith. Ic an see Alexander going either extremely Human or extremely Klingon. She took one point of view in her story; I took the other. IDIC, y’know?

"Where the Heart Is,” by Chris Dickenson, was priceless! It’s got to be my favorite. Sergey and Helena ware more real in this story than they were in the episode, "Family." And the flashback were Helena puts Worf over her knee! I had wondered how two such unassuming parents could have handled a Klingon child like Worf. Now I know!

Incidentally, what’s with the reference to Alveda 3? I like continuity, but has this been accepted as ERIDANI canon? It seems like a dangerous assumption to make while the episodes are still coming up with all sorts of new backgrounds on the characters.

Okay, so I suppose this sets me up for criticism on my own story, doesn't it? I'll be holding my breath until the next ERIDANI LoC column. (Gee, isn't Michelle a lovely shade of purple?)

I just finished reading ERIDANI 12, and I wanted to write with a few comments. The cover's art is wonderful. It was only when I saw all of the ERIDANIs lined up at Revelcon that I noticed how beautiful the covers are. Julie Nosal is fabulous. For some reason, however, I notice that the back cover is often better than the front. The Wesley on the back of ERIDANI 12 is beautiful. (My 80-year—old grandmother thought it was Elvis. I tried to explain, but she just didn’t get it....)

I thought the idea of a Worf issue was interesting. I equate writing Klingons with rodeo riding — you have to be daring even to try it. Most people who do wind up fiat on their... As for the authors in ERIDANI, they managed to get into character and stay in for the most part.

Two stand-out stories were "Future Ghosts," by Michelle Benoit, and "A Father Takes Leave of His Son," by Susan Deborah Smith. I liked the way the stories examined different aspects of the same subject. Smith's focus was on the child — I liked the interaction with his Human grandparents and Worf's interaction with various crew members. I thought the ending was great with Alexander quickly amending his "Okay” and inserting the proper Klingon phrase. Benoit's story struck me as much more "Klingon." She has a definite talent for capturing the speech patterns of characters — her Worf and Deanna were directly on the mark aurally. I also loved the image of the tiny Betazoid ready and willing to fight Worf in order to knock some sense into him. (One way or another.)

I had a bit of a problem with "Now if I Carry Out This Oath." In reading the story, I felt as if I’d opened the door and walked in on an argument without knowing any of the details. It was uncomfortable.

"Endings” got me angry. Maybe it’s the fact that I'm a big Pulaski fan (hey, I’m used to being a minority — I’ve been a Chapel fan for twelve years!), and I had high hopes for this story. When the flashback had Pulaski claiming that Picard would prefer Crusher to her, I got a bit antsy. Then, when Picard automatically assumes Pulaski's guilt, I got really upset. It was totally out of character for both of them. I couldn't even finish the story.

The interior artwork was good for the most part. I liked Caldwell's Data and Benoit’s cartoons were great. (I loved the ten ton weight falling on the female crewmember. How apropos.) The Deanna on page 82, however, looked older than Lwaxana.

I didn’t forgot Dickenson's "Where the Heart Is.” I loved the story. Her portrayal of Sergey and Helena was right on line. I could actually see their faces, their expressions and mannerisms, hear their voices. (Not many stories do that for me.) I thought the flashbacks were marvelous — again, from what we know of the characters, right on line. The image of Helena throwing an obstinate little Klingon six-year old over her knee will stay with me for along time.

Well, I don’t want to take up too much space. I wish you luck with future issues of ERIDANI. Keep up the good work.

I'd like to say I’ve always enjoyed your publications. I think the reviews in Marty Siegrist's review zine have been off base (and I hear there's to be another one of several ERIDANIs in the next issue).

I very much enjoyed ERIDANl 12 (I feel this is getting repetitive, I seem to always like the ERIDANI fanzines). The stories in it were excellent (and made me feel my own were less deserving of a place in the fanzine). If Beverly Crusher were closer to her portrayal in Barbara Caldwell's "Enemies" and less like Gates McFadden, I’d much prefer the character. I very much appreciate original stories like Barbara’s that do not derive directly from an episode, and I think she did this one very well...

I was impressed by all the short stories, but most especially by "Where the Heart Is," by Chris Dickenson, which I thought was beautifully done. Since Chris also made a significant edit to one of my stories (which greatly improved it), I feel doubly grateful to her. Thanks to Barbara Caldwell for illustrating my stories, which I thought she did well.

Finally, always, I loved all the cartoons. Thank you everyone!

I just got a chance to read ERIDANI 12 and loved it.

"Enemies" is one of the best Trek stories I've read, zine or otherwise, and it makes me wish we saw more of Worf and Crusher together in zines and in the episodes.

I liked the post-"High Ground" story ("The High Ground" being one of my favorite episodes), and this was a believable and well-written epilogue to it.

The three Worf stories were also very good, the alien perspective in "Mttah" was very interesting, and "Endings" had me completely absorbed. What a story! What a zine! I’m delighted to find a zine of such great quality....P.S.: I forgot to mention the art. Wonderful portrait of Beverly on the cover; good interior illos, especially pages 15, 26 and 46.

Issue 13

front cover of issue #13, Julie Nosal

back cover of issue #13, Julie Nosal

flyer for issue #13

Eridani 13 was published in June 1991 and contains 122 pages.

The art is by BEKi, Michelle Benoit, Barbara Caldwell, David Lawrence, Julie Nosal, and Fran Wong.

• Hailing Frequencies Open, editorial (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• Imposture by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("A Picard-Crusher story set during the time between the conclusion of "The Best of Both Worlds, Part Two" and the start of "Family." In this intricate tale, Picard and Crusher must investigate a starship captain with a rather high casualty rate. As Picard must judge the competence of another captain, he must also judge his own ability to command again.") (8)
• Blind Sight by Deborah Baudoin and Renee Bouzigard ("A LaForge-Troi story wherein the engineer must come to face his embarrassment over a misplaced item.") (67)
• The Results of Inquiry by Denise Hays ("Set after "Identity Crisis." Data decides to draw Geordi LaForge into a conversation they both may regret.") (71)
• With Pain is Fraught Our Sweetest Songs by Janna Stockinger ("A Picard-Wesley story as the two confer before Wes' departure.") (78)
• Permission by Barbara Robertson ("n off-the-wall kind of story as Beverly Crusher learns to deal with a pesky ghost and her own feelings.") (90)
• Reaching out ... Reaching In by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("A kernel which may blossom into a full-fledged relationship between Jean-Luc Picard and Deanna Troi.") (100)
• What the Blind Man Sees by Michelle Benoit ("A LaForge story wherein circumstances help Geordi make a decision.") (108)
• Out at the Park by Susan Deborah Smith ("A zany tribute to the boys of summer and the heroes of the Enterprise as LaForge, Gomez and Data go to a Giants game with comic results.") (112)
• Some Place Like Home by BEKi ("An interesting look at William Riker and a youth who has touched his life more than anyone might have guessed.") (117)
• Mainviewer (BEKI’s review of Peter David's tie-in novel, "Vendetta.") (121)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed, closing editorial by Randall Landers (comments on several episodes) (122)

• 

  from issue #13, Barbara Caldwell

• 

  from issue #13, Barbara Caldwell

• 

  from issue #13, Barbara Caldwell

• 

  from issue #13, Fran Wong

• 

  from issue #13, Fran Wong

• 

  from issue #13, David Lawrence

• 

  from issue #13, David Lawrence

• 

  from issue #13, Barbara Caldwell

• 

  from issue #13, BEKi

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 13

I wanted to write and tell you how much I enjoyed ERIDANI 13. I liked the humorous touch this issue had, especially "Permission" and "Out at the Park, The illos were good, and the 'toons were a lot of fun.

I did want to clear up an error in my story that I did not catch in the galley proof. The credits for the story should read, "Renee Bouzigard and Deborah Baudoin," not the other way around. I know it sounds like a nit-picky thing, but I come from a theatrical background where billing is everything. And for "Blind Sight," Renee deserves top billing. The idea, emotions, resolution and eighty percent of the dialogue is her. I just put it down on paper. (I listened to her gripe about the lack of story time Geordi’s disability got on ST:TNG, so I finally told her, "Look, if you can do it better, go ahead." That's where "Blind Sight" came from.) Well, I just wanted to give credit (or blame) where it was due.

(Editor’s Note: Our policy is that we list the names of contributors for any story in alphabetical order in the table of contents and in the byline. -RAL)

I would like to take this opportunity to say once again how much I have enjoyed reading your zines. I just finished ERIDANI 13, and it continues to reflect an excellent selection of short stories and novellas. I must comment on the story, "Permission," by Barbara Robertson. I look forward to more of her work. The characterizations were spot-on, and the touch of humor and romance made for one of the most enjoyable pieces I have read in several zines. I hope Ms. Robertson continues her writing. All your authors deserve praise and my admiration for having the courage and talent to bring their stories forward for others to enjoy. Keep writing!! I just have one question, though; what is a BEKi?

Issue 14

front cover of issue #14

flyer for issue #14

Eridani 14 was published in September 1991 and contains 214 pages.

The art is by BEKi, Michelle Benoit, Barbara J. Caldwell, Janet D'Airo, David Lawrence, Christine Myers, M.J. Millard, and Julie Nosal.

• The Days After by Jordan Trevor ("A Picard-Crusher hurt-comfort story set after Locutus has been vanquished, but before Jean-Luc Picard is himself again.")
• Worth the Price by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("A Picard-Data story set after Lal's death, wherein both characters attempt determine Data's true nature.")
• Masquerade by Jennifer Adams ("The crew is preparing for a holiday festival, and everyone gets into the proper spirit, including Data.")
• On the Other Side by Mary Soon Lee ("Will Riker begins to exhibit some very disturbing behavior, and Geordi, Data and Worf take it upon themselves to see if they can help. Unfortunately, they only make matters worse.")
• For Better or for Worse by Michelle Benoit ("A comedy-drama with Data ordering a mail-order bride to serve as his companion. Although similar in ways, to "In Theory," the story was submitted and accepted long before that episode was even announced.")
• Reflection by Jeff Martin ("A Worf story set during the time when Jono is aboard the Enterprise. It's not everyone who gets to say "I told you so."")
• The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea by BEKi ("An action-adventure novella. As aliens battle aboard the Enterprise, the starship becomes ensnared in a space phenomenon that threatens to destroy them all.")

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 14

After reading Mary Soon Lee's LoC in the last issue of ERIDANI, I felt compelled to offer her some perspective on criticism and its place in a writer's world. I hope it helps." See Endings.

Got my tribber’s copy of ERI 14 the other day.

Most splendiferous, dude. The writing styles throughout, although different, wore consistently good. Lots of hurt/comfort...everybody pick on Riker now! (Not that he doesn’t deserve it now and again...) And of course to have three stories to feature Data...made this DSBSD real happy. Kudos go big time to Christine Myer’s wonderful illos for my story. The Data portrait is getting copied and going up on my wall with the other "great illos from stories I wrote."

I’m pleased (almost ecstatic!) to have read that Cyndi Bayless Overstreet’s resurfacing. I, for one, have always enjoyed her writing (and I’m real happy to be appearing in ERI 15 with her). Those who nearly drove her out of fan writing need to get a life. It’s only "amateur" writing for one thing, and it’s only about a TV show.

Geez.

Since I'm a confirmed Data-ho1ic, I was delighted to hear that Cyndi Bayless Overstreet has begun writing Next Gen stories again. She has become one of my favorite Trek authors. Few writers handle Data so well, and her writing improves by leaps and bounds with each new story. I'm really looking forward to reading her latest offering....

I thoroughly enjoyed ERIDANI 14. I am consistently impressed by the high quality of ORION PRESS publications, and I think this was the best one I’ve seen. I thoroughly approve of the overall appearance of the fanzine, including the spiral binding, the beautiful covers, and, most significantly, the increased length. As an avid ERIDANI reader, I'm hoping future issues will be equally long!

I like the addition of the cartoon cavalcade, although I'm not sure I’d like it to grow to more than a few pages per issue. I am not an artist, but I enjoyed the illustrations, particularly the aforementioned cavers by Julie Nosal and Barbara Caldwell’s illustrations for "The Days After” (I liked her work on "For Better or for Worse," but not to the same extent.) However, my single favorite picture was David Lawrence’s excellent drawing of Worf.

I liked all the stories in the fanzine. Jordan Trevor’s handling of Picard after "Best of Both Worlds" was well written. I thought his characterization of Crusher and a badly disturbed Picard was very good, although I had a minor niggle about Riker's behavior in Ten Forward (under the circumstances, I didn’t think he'd ignore Picard in favor of his dinner). The closing sentence of the story had a power that reverberated well after I'd finished reading it; it was a perfect ending.

The shorter stories ("Worth the Price” by Jo-Ann Lassiter and "Reflection" by Jeff Martin) were both interesting. I’m not entirely comfort¬able with the premise of "Worth the Price" (Data confused by Picard’s insubordination regarding Lai, combined with Data not realizing he himself could ever disobey a direct order), but the treatment was good. "Reflection" successfully reinforced the theme of "Suddenly Human," and it was refreshing to read something written from Worf's perspective.

"For Better or for Worse," by Michelle Benoit, was extremely entertaining, although I found the shift from humorous to more serious scenes occasionally disconcerting. I loved the beginning, complete with Troi’s reaction to being the last candidate on Data's list, and I loved Data's straight-forward acceptance of Katrina's statement that he could go and play poker, but the image that stayed with me longest was Worf picking up the little green houses from the abandoned Monopoly game — classic.

I thought "Masquerade," by Jennifer Adams, was one of the best light pieces of Next Generation fiction that Ihave read. It captivated and amused me, whilst providing an interesting plot and excellent characterization. The symmetry of starting and ending with LaForge framed the tale beautifully. I wasn't completely convinced that the Ferengi would behave as portrayed, but that did very little to detract from my enjoyment.

As I wrote, I liked all the above stories, but for me the best piece in the issue, and probably my favorite Next Generation story to date, was "The Devil and the Deep Slue Sea" by BEKi. The plot was solid and interesting, but the standard of writing and the characterization lifted this novella into something exceptional.

Thank you to everyone who worked on ERIDANI 14 — I very very much enjoyed it.

Comments on “Cartoon Calvacade" — I'm not crazy about grouping cartoons. To me, it dilutes the humor. Also, I was NOT a happy camper, merry man, etc. when I saw how Worf came out. I almost got an attitude like his, and my reaction was somewhat the same: OHH! Please let your readers know I am not a racist pig dog and intended no insult to the character of Horf (except as implied in the humor of the original cartoon) or to Mister Dorn. I have learned since that the dots I used to color Worf's skin are too close together, to use a different type when doing work for reduction and photocopying. I also need to work in a lengthwise style rather than up and down, which is, I guess, why so many of Michelle Benoit's cartoons appear in near-normal size, as opposed to mine, which usually get reduced way down. I had hoped you would consider my 'toons as worthy of perhaps half or two-thirds of a page and sized them on that basis. In future, I'll limit the height to 3" to 4". If the readers like Cartoon Calvacade [sic], please do the cartoonists a favor and alternate us all Michelle Benoit on one page and all M.J. Millard on the other "diluted" our humor even more.

"Redemption IL": Porkey Klingon testosterone, continued. Randy was right; cha'DIch was meant for Riker and should’ve been assigned to him. It gets a D.

"Darmok"; Although Jean-Luc Picard was a bit on the pompous side at first, he loosened up a bit. A great “cross-cultural" show, but how do young Tanarians learn to speak? Do they spend the first three or four years of life listening? Great concept all the same. It gets an A.

"Silicon Avatar": The sexual innuendo between Carmen and Riker was a bit heavy-handed. Although I get tired of accomplished women who go nuts, the interaction between Data and the scientist was very well played. It gets an A.

"Ensign Ro": A strong woman who evolves. Good interplay between Riker and Ro, Riker and Picard. In spite of Roddenberry's dictum that there should be no conflict between characters, CONFLICT IS GOOD and evolves characters. I hope to see more. It gets an A.

"Disaster": The women were strong; everyone acquitted themselves admirably, even Picard, in pain and faced with three kids. A real good example of leadership principles inaction (both Picard and Troi!). Science was a bit foggy, but I seldom care if there's a good character stuff —and there was. It gets an A+.

I would like to pass along a few words of comment on the two most recent publications I've purchased. ERIDANI 14 and TANTALUS 3. I was particularly struck by the similarities in the way Jo-Ann Lassiter ("Too Much Time...Not Enough Time") and Jordan Trevor ("The Days After") saw Picard dealing with the aftermath of hie Borg encounter. I think it's a tribute to Patrick Stewart’s portrayal of the character that there is such a consistency in the way we, the viewers. see him. Despite the similarities, each writer brought something different to the interpretation. and I enjoyed both.

To me, Picard is the most fascinating and complex character on ST:TNG, and I enjoy most of the fan fiction dealing with him, as long as it keeps him in character. That is also what I enjoy most your publications: that character is not sacrificed on the altar of plot. I only discovered zines less than a year ago, but have sampled sore than a dozen from different publishers. I continue to find your publications to have the most consistently well-written material and exceptionally fine artwork.

...I saw your latest ERIDANI (ERI 14). Looks like you're having trouble with your illos, huh?

ERIDANI 14: I really enjoyed "The Days After." It was a very good P/C story. The characters were well written. I also liked "The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea" — it would make an interesting TV episode. I think Barbara Caldwell's drawings, especially of Beverly, are terrific. I envy anyone who can draw so well! I think the cartoons are pretty funny.

I recently acquired ERIDANI 14 at a convention. I must say that I really enjoyed it The stories were very different and exerting. I was also glad to read that Cyndi Bayless Overstreet would be returning to writing. She has been greatly missed...

Issue 15

front cover of issue #15

back cover of issue #15, Julie Nosal

flyer for issue #15

Eridani 15 was published in December 1991 and contains 254 pages.

The art is by Barbara Caldwell, Janet D'Airo, David Lawrence, Laura Miles, M.J. Millard, Julie Nosal, Connie Slatton, and Cynthia Slatton.

• Hailing Frequencies Open, editorial (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• Reflections by Cynthia D. Slatton ("A Picard-T'Pau story set shortly after the events of "The Best of Both Worlds Part II." The Enterprise is ferrying T'Pau on a diplomatic mission when trouble strikes.") (6)
• Curly Tom by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("Set after "In Theory," Data decides to experiment with his social interaction programs.") (63)
• Man and Imagination by Jennifer Adams ("Computer programmers come aboard the Enterprise, researching their latest project: an Enterprise-based gaming program.") (80)
• Hidden Treasure by Andra Marie Mueller ("The aftermath of "The Host," and how Riker, Troi and Crusher come to terms with what happened.") (113)
• The Hollow Spot by BEKi ("Riker and Guinan discussing Baraash, Jean-Luc and the emotions of a troubled executive officer.") (116)
• Insufficient Data by Jill Harvey ("A cute little story about a young ambassador's daughter who is rescued by Data and who falls in love with the android.") (121)
• Through the Eyes of a Stranger by Madalena A. Mumford ("A different point-of-view of the Riker-Troi-Beverly Crusher triangle generated by "The Host."") (127)
• Duty Calls by Jeff Morris ("Commander Shelby faces an almost impossible task: recruiting Enterprise crewmembers to fill positions on other starships. But she knows she has one recruit: William T. Riker, whether he likes it or not.") (133)
• Echo by BEKi ("Yet another look at the events set up by "The Host."") (147)
• Time See What's Become of Me by Jeff Morris ("A Riker-Troi story where the first officer examines his career decisions and his relationship with a certain Betazoid.") (153)
• The Wraith by BEKi ("Riker "possessed" by an alien entity. Although similar to "The Lonely Among Us," this piece transcends that episode.") (157)
• Unanswered Questions by Andra Marie Mueller ("A final look at Odan's influence on Riker and Troi.") (181)
• Homecoming by Billy McClure ("A Data story wherein someone or something is out to take over the Enterprise and its science officer. A fascinating story, one which ties in with the events established in ST:TMP.") (183)
• Shadows by Andra Marie Mueller ("A post-"Best of Both Worlds II" short story.") (227)
• Mainviewer, con report by BEKi for OktoberTrek (242)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed, a Tribute to Gene Roddenberry by Randall Landers (253)

• 

  from issue #15, Cynthia Slatton

• 

  from issue #15, Janet D'Airo

• 

  from issue #15, Barbara Caldwell

• 

  from issue #15, Laura Miles

• 

  from issue #15, M.J. Millard

• 

  from issue #15, M.J. Millard

• 

  from issue #15, M.J. Millard

• 

  from issue #15, Laura Miles

• 

  from issue #15, Connie Slatton

• 

  from issue #15, Connie Slatton

• 

  from issue #15, Connie Slatton

• 

  from issue #15, David Lawrence

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 15

See more heated comments about Endings.

I received my copy of ERIDANI 15 last week and wanted to tell you how pleased I was to be included in this issue. I am continually impressed by the consistent high quality of this publication, but more impressed by the consistent improvement shown in each issue. The zine just keeps getting better. It is a pleasure to know Ican count on ERIDANI for a dependable source of well-written, beautifully illustrated Next Gen fiction. I’m sorry this isn’t a proper LoC, but I'm still savoring the zine, one page at a time.

ERIDANI 15 is another great zine! I haven't read the whole zine yet, but here are a few thoughts on what I have read.

'Hidden Treasure' and 'Unanswered Questions' were both believable in the way they dealt with the aftermath of The Host,' and I enjoyed them. Now I’d like to read one that explores Picard's feelings concerning the relationship between his C.M.O. and first officer!

'Homecoming' is a terrific story. I was reading along, thoroughly enjoying the story when I came across that delightful P/C tidbit! I like stories that deal with the P/C relationship as an accepted part of life aboard the Enterprise.

'Curly Tom’ was excellent, and I'm not even a Data fan. Cyndi Bayless Overstreet certainly knows how to tell a good story.

I thought ERIDANI 15 was very good. It offered a wide variety of stories. 'Curly Tom' was great Cyndi Bayless Overstreet writing was excellent as always. The 'Eridex' is a great idea and very handy. The post-Host stories were very good, especially 'Echo' by BEKi. I thought it resolved the Riker-Crusher situation very well.

I got my contributor's copy of ERIDANI 16. Thank you very much; you did a great job. I had a wonderful time reading it. Maybe I am the only one that feels this way. but I really am happy you went back to the old format. ERIDANI 14 and 15 were just too much of a mammoth read for me... What can I say? I have a short attention span. That's why I am a cartoonist.

ERIDANI 15 is my first introduction to a fanzine. I loved it! I enjoyed every single story, and I can't wait to read more....Thank you very much!

I'm beginning to hate BEKi. I had what I thought were two. good, solid stories in ERIDANI 15. and then her three (The Hollow Spot,' "Echo,* and The Wraith"), and my stuff looked like garbage in comparison. So I really bust my tail and give my best efforts for my story in ERIDANI 16, and here she comes again, blowing me away with 'The Survivor.' I can’t win.

In all seriousness, though. BEKi makes me work harder to keep up with her, and her work is always a pleasure to read.

[...]

'Curly Tom* was a treasure to read; it’s good to Cyndi Bayless Overstreet back in ERIDANI. Mary and I would both like to see more of Maxwell in future stories, as she adds a special dimension to the Enterprise crew. I wasn't quite as thrilled with 'MisQued,' but I have to admit she got Q pegged perfectly, which is not easily done.

I liked the idea of Bok's obsession with Picard in 'Morpheus Descending,' and using Wesley as the bait in the trap was a deliciously ironic touch. The notion of Wesley going back to retrieve Picard's body was hauntingly reminiscent of Picard's going back to recover Jack Crusher's body: a nice touch and deftly done.

'Man and Imagination* was a holodeck hoot, across between "Father Knows Best* and 'Married: With Children' (now that's a frightening though...Al Bundy as Captain Picard!), Riker's encounter with the children had me rolling on the floor with laughter, and Langford and Turner had strong overtones of Wozniak and Jobs, at least to me. Nice story, as Worf would say.

The 'Odan' stories all brought interesting perspectives to that tangled relationship (and. as usual. BEKi's was tops - why doesn't that surprise me?). Kudos to all involved.

I wanted to thank M.J. Millard for a solid job done on 'Duty Calls' (love that illo of Shelby) and 'Time See...', and to Barbara Caldwell and Cynthia Slatton on 'Aftermath.' And I look forward to seeing Janet D’Airo's and Laura Miles' pieces of comic relief.

Issue 16

front cover of issue #16, Julie Nosal

back cover of issue #16, Julie Nosal

flyer for issue #16

Eridani 16 was published in March 1992 and contains 138 pages.

The art is by Barbara J. Caldwell, David Lawrence, Laura Miles, M.J. Millard, Julie Nosal (both ocovers), Margaret O'Quinn, Cynthia D. Slatton, and Fran Wong.

From the zine, regarding the poll:

One unique feature in this issue is the Star Trek: The Next Generation Episode Poll Results. I am publishing them in here, without commentary. The grading scale is listed atop the results, but I want to hear your opinion why Episode A did better than Episode B. The response to the survey was a meager 17.4% but from what I can tell, no single group of fans voted in a block. I will continue to accept the episode polls from ERIDANI 14 (without the discount, of course) so that I can update the polls every year. Perhaps next year, the response rate will be better, but I believe that 17.4% does constitute an acceptable sample size. I welcome any and all comments about the poll In the LoC column, of course, and would love to see reactions to the poll.

• Hailing Frequencies Open (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• Morpheus Descending by D.J. Nicholson ("Captain Picard and Doctor Crusher leave the relative safety of the Enterprise in order to rescue Wesley, who's been captured by an old nemesis.") (6)
• MisQued by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("A sexy little Data romp involving Q, a young woman and a surprise or two.") (43)
• Aftermath by Jeff Morris ("Riker faces the death of a crewman under his leadership. It's not as easy when you're the one in command.") (73)
• The Rescue by BEKi ("I've been wondering a lot lately, "Where's Guinan?" when this episode airs or that one airs. This story answers that question for the episode, "Disaster," in what is clearly an amusing manner.") (84)
• Full Circle by BEKi ("The last of a trilogy of stories involving Riker and the young alien Baraash.") (91)
• The Survivor by BEKi ("A look at a survivor of the Borg assault on Wolf 359, his torment, and the one person he can reach out to.") (99)
• Star Trek: The Next Generation Episode Survey Results (135)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed, episode reviews by Randall Landers (136)

• 

  from issue issue #16, Cynthia D. Slatton

• 

  from issue issue #16, Laura Miles

• 

  from issue issue #16, M.J. Millard

• 

  from issue issue #16, fan survey of favorite episodes

• 

  from issue issue #16, Laura Miles

• 

  from issue issue #16, Margaret O'Quinn

• 

  from issue issue #16, Margaret O'Quinn

• 

  from issue issue #16, Laura Miles

• 

  from issue issue #16, Laura Miles

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 16

[MisQued]: "MisQued," by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet (contained in the no-holds-barred TNG fanzine Eridani#16). Q and Lore conspire to play a cruel trick on Data, using Lore's masochistic girl-friend as the bait. Data remains befuddled throughout, and so did I. Not for all tastes; some rough stuff is played for laughs. 'Intriguing,' but don't say I didn't warn you. Adult.

[The Rescue]: ... though, BEKi makes me work harder to keep up with her, and her work is always a pleasure to read. She'll r>o doubt be pleased to know (as will you) that I mentioned 'The Rescue' on the GEnie computer network (as there had been a great deal of discussion about Guinan's whereabouts during 'Disaster'), but I didn't tell anyone the plot or the ending, despite pleadings and threats. Let 'em buy the zine to find out!

[zine]: S.O.S. Same Old Stuff Don't bother. Well, that's what I was going to say, particularly after previous reviews of previous Eridanis, and considering that all of my synapses stopped firing about halfway through the zine. In fact, more is reason to go into some detail. Some aspects of the zine have improved, prompting me to have a faint glimmer of hope for Eridani's future... So, there we have it: publicity portraits, one decent illustrator, some not-so-hot art, a lot of stories that didn't make it, some almost-but-not-quites, a bad lay-Data story, insipid LoCs (let me point out here that LoCs can be a form of entertainment. These weren't), and the usual editorials wherein the Overstreet story [is called] a "sexy little Data romp involving Q, a young woman and a surprise or two. Quite an interesting story ...quite." Last I looked, a "romp" was something fun and innocent. This story involved an abused, victimized woman apparently twisted by her tormentor into "liking it." Some romp). All in all, quite an accomplishment for the sixteenth issue of a zine published by people with years of prior zine experience. I will give this one two trees for its unfailing determination to reach the lowest common denominator. The extra tree is for the stuff that tried to break out of the mold, or should I say pond scum, but got dragged back down in the final average.

[zine]: ...it was not pleasant to be reminded of how many men find abuse of women a turn-on. I've read the Overstreet story as well as Randall Landers' description of it, and something in me died a little when he dismissed the story as a "sexy little Data romp."

[zine]:

I just received my copy of ERIDANI 16. The quality was excellent, as usual. I was very pleased with David Lawrence's illos for my story. The only fault I can find with the whole publication is not enough Picard, but I know you can't publish what you don’t have. I guess this means I better keep writing and submitting.

Cyndi Bayless Overstreet managed to capture Q's sardonic wit perfectly in 'MisQued.' This is actually the first time I’ve seen any story manage that.

BEKi's The Rescue' was absolutely hilarious. So that's where Guinan keeps disappearing to. Does she have a medical problem or has she been over-indulging in Worfs prune juice? The illos were also priceless.

BEKi's The Survivor' explored the aftermath of The Best of Both Worlds' from a new and different perspective. Being a Picard fan. though, I guess I wanted to see and know how he and McKenrixon reacted to each other. I guess that's a story I'll have to write myself, although I believe an upcoming episode of the show will be dealing with something along these lines...

Issue 17

front cover of issue #17, Julie Nosal

back cover of issue #17, Julie Nosal

Eridani 17 was published in July 1992 and contains 110 pages.

The art is by Barbara J. Caldwell, David Lawrence, Laura Miles, M.J. Millard, Julie Nosal, and Margaret O'Quinn.

From the editorial:

By now, you’ve probably noticed a new look to the zine. Yes, I’ve purchased a HP IIP plus laser printer for producing ERIDANi, ORION and our novels, and Ann has purchased a HP IIP for producing IDYLLS, INVOLUTION]] and TANTALUS. The acquisition of these two printers (at personal expense, I might add) should make for a better looking set of fanzines. We hope you will let us know what you think of the new layout and print-styles.

This summer has quite a list of new ORION PRESS zines to be made available. THE PICARD MANEUVER is a Picard-oriented fanzine, but much more lighter in tone than INVOLUTION. Speaking of Janna Stockinger's zine, the second issue of INVOLUTION is now available. Its concentration this issue is on Picard’s relationships with the women in his life. Also, Rosalie Blaze] has penned SOUNDS OF A DISTANT WORLD, a Troi-oriented novella set on an icy world. Be sure and consult the summer quarterly report for ordering information.

Finally, I am somewhat stunned to report that ERIDANI 12 won the Fan-Q Award for Best Star Trek Fanzine. I am stunned because I declined the nomination. Apparently, many of you voted for ERIDANI anyway. I’d like to express my gratitude to all of you who voted for the zine. I’d also like to thank all the valued contributors whose material made that Worf-oriented issue so memorable in the minds of the readers.

Well, I guess that's all that needs to be said. Hope you enjoy the zine!

• Hailing Frequencies Open, editorial by Randall Landers (2)
• Data Banks, letters of comment (3)
• Aftereffects by Mary Soon Lee ("A Riker hurt/comfort piece, with a heavy emphasis on his relationship with Captain Picard, and an equally heavy emphasis on his relationship with a former associate.") (6)
• Understandings by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("A conversation between Doctor Beverly Crusher and Counselor Deanna Troi and details the time that Jean-Luc Picard actually volunteered to babysit for Jack and Beverly.") (38)
• Out of Time by Billy McClure ("A sequel of sorts to "Remember Me" and "We'll Always Have Paris"... Beverly Crusher always seems to be involved with "mad" scientists, doesn't she?") (46)
• Trial by Choice by D.J. Nicholson ("A Picard story featuring the return of Jono, who, after a personal tragedy, has decided to return to Earth and to the family he has never known. But Worf and Riker have their doubts.") (83)
• Clouds by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("A character story featuring Geordi LaForge and Data as they spend some idle time together.") (98)
• The Journal of the Sherlock Holmes Society of London by Susan Deborah Smith ("Another Geordi-Data story, this time spending idle moments together.") (106)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed, episode reviews by Randall Landers (111)

• 

  from issue #17, Barbara J. Caldwell

• 

  from issue #17, Barbara J. Caldwell

• 

  from issue #17, M.J. Millard

• 

  from issue #17, M.J. Millard

• 

  from issue #17, Margaret O'Quinn

Issue 18

front cover of issue #18, Julie Nosal

back cover of issue #18, Julie Nosal

Eridani 18 was published in October 1992 and contains 146 pages.

The art is by by Tom Audette, David Lawrence, M.J. Millard, Julie Nosal, Margaret O'Quinn, and Connie Jean Slatton.

From the editorial:

We're having a bit of a problem these days coming up with usable publicity stills for our artists. If you have stills or photos you’re willing to share with us, please send them to me, and we’ll issue you $1.00 credit for each photo we use. We will also return any that we receive within two weeks’ time along with a credit slip. We’re just trying to build up our virtually depleted visual reference files.

• Hailing Frequencies Open (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• And When We're Gone by Jordan Trevor ("A Picard-Crusher hurt-comfort story as adjusts to reality following the events of "The Inner Light."") (4)
• Out, Damned Spot! by Jeff Morris ("A humorous story set on the Enterprise. You might call it 'A Life in the Day of Data's Cat' as Spot seems to enjoy quite a field trip on this day.") (47)
• Consequences by Rosalie Blazej ("A follow-up to "'The Outcasts." Feeling guilty about what happened, Riker turns to Troi for help.") (53)
• Mission of Mercy by D.J. Nicholson ("A Picard story set prior to Star Trek: The Next Generation. It details Picard's first encounter with a future member of his crew while stranded on an icy planet under attack from hostile aliens.") (57)
• The Gift by Elizabeth Knauel ("The first of two companion pieces which deal with the episode, "I, Borg."") (69)
• The Heart of the Nautilus by Madalena A. Mumford ("Riker's explores of a unique world and meets its unique inhabitant.") (72)
• Singularity by Elizabeth Knauel ("The second of two companion pieces which deal with the episode, "I, Borg."")
• After Jono by Jordan Trevor ("A look at Picard's relationship with the young Human who has become more alien than Human.") (81)
• The Legacy by BEKi ("Set in Star Trek: The Next Generation's future. Captain William T. Riker of the U.S.S. Enterprise must deal with a crisis on a world he once visited and a child he never knew.") (91)
• Star Trek: Mutant Media Heroes, episode one: Paradox Park, comic by Tom Audette (140)
• Star Trek: The Next Generation Episode Survey (145)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed, all about Deep Space Nine, by Randall Landers (146)

• 

  flyer for issue #18

• 

  from issue #18, M.J. Millard

• 

  from issue #18, Connie Jean Slatton

• 

  from issue #18, M.J. Millard

• 

  from issue #18, David Lawrence

• 

  from issue #18, Tom Audette

• 

  from issue #18, Tom Audette

• 

  from issue #18, (includes a Shatner Promise Margarine nod)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 18

‘And When We're Gone' - Really kick-ass continuation of the ‘Inner Light' story. This one should have been longer. There were parts that had a lot of dialogue and very little description. These scenes could have been expended. The idea of recreating Ressick in the holodeck is wonderful and had not occurred to me, though now I keep saying. ‘But that's so obvious. It should have occurred to you.’ I can't say enough good things about this one.

‘Out, Damned Spot’ - From the demented mind of Jeff Morris. What a hysterically funny story. I was laughing out loud from beginning to end. I even read it twice and laughed just as hard. I hope that Jeff can come up with more ‘Spot stories' in the future.

'Consequences’ - I never liked [the episode] The Outcast. This story deals with some of the Issues that were raised in the episode but not dealt with properly. Nothing gets resolved, however. I finished this and was left with a sense of incompleteness, like after watching the episode.

‘Mission of Mercy' - A good story that shows what happened to Picard between the loss of the Stargazer and the voyages on the Enterprise. It was nice to see the first meeting between Yar and Picard. D.J. Nicholson made Tasha Yar more likeable than she was on the series. Very well written, and I was very surprised to find that it was Tasha who had saved Picard.

'The Gift' - Not much here. Part 1 of 2.

'The Heart of the Nautilus' - Bizarre. I was more interested by the small bit with Deanna at the end than the whole thing with Will. The whole hunger thing and eating of those jello globes was strange.

“Singularity' - Part 2 of 2. This whole story just was. There was no tension. To be frank, I just didn't care enough about this story.

‘After Jono’ - The problem that I had with this story was the problem that I had with the episode that it follows. I don't think that Picard would become so emotionally attached to Jono to motivate the angst and despair that he is feeling throughout this. Barring that, it's okay. I really liked the interaction between Picard and Crusher. There's so little of that on the show.

'The Legacy' - This was by far the best story in the whole issue! What a great read. Again, this one should have been longer, much longer. I was actually misting up at parts. The fact that this was a future story made the possibility of some of the regulars dying as a strong possibility. I turn page after page quickly to see if Riker would live or die. Riker is not one of my faves but this tale was so good that It didn't matter. Please tell BEKi that I worship the ground that she walks on. An A-1 story.

'Mutant Media Heroes; Episode 1' - All I can say is ROTFLMOL [Rolling on the floor, laughing madly out loud.] More! More! I'm gonna have to buy ERIDANI 19 to see how it ends. Is this an ongoing thing in all ERIDANIs after 18? If not, it should be.

The art in ERIDANI was good, and surpassed that in ORION by light years. I also liked the cartoons in ERIDANI. Really nice job, Randy. I will be purchasing more in the future.

In ERIDANI 18, Jordan Trevor's 'And When We're Gone' was beautifully written. A very touching description of Picard's struggle to find a balance between his Starfleet and Kalaan realities. Jordan made every Enterprise scene and Kataan dream blend perfectly, one prompting the other with ease. Again, a beautiful story. Jordan.

I have only one tiny complaint and it really has nothing to do with the stories at all. But I also noticed it in the July newsletter.

Why must BEKi always make denigrating references to Patrick Stewart's baldness? I found the mention of it in her story, 'The Legacy,' totally uncalled for, nor did I appreciate the comment about the 'obligatory bald joke' in the flyer for the Riker zine. I just find this typo of comment highly distasteful. Perhaps I’m too thin-skinned, but I don't ever see any references concerning Riker/Jonathan Frakes' weight problem in any Picard stories or in any Picard zines. Oh well.

I liked the Riker/Troi-oriented stories. My favorites were 'The Legacy' (I, too, would appreciate a sequel to that story) and 'Just Between Friends.' Some days after reading the story, I had the luck to watch the belonging episode on the English Channel, Sky One.

But I also liked ail the other stories, especially 'Out, Damned Spot' and 'And When We're Gone' which I think was a logical and necessary sequel. I often have the feeling that an episode needs a sequel to sort out personal feelings of the crew.

Issue 19

front cover of issue #19

back cover of issue #19

Eridani 19 was published in January 1993 and contains 157 pages.

The art is by Tom Audette, Barbara Caldwell, David Lawrence, M.J. Millard, Julie Nosal, Margaret O'Quinn, and Connie Slatton.

• Where Angels Fear to Tread by BEKi ("Aliens come aboard the Enterprise with designs on its destruction, taking over crewmembers as they need. It's an action-adventure story, and one you're sure to enjoy!")
• Outcast No Longer by Madalena A. Mumford ("An excellent sequel to the episode, "The Outcasts." This is the second time we've looked at the aftermath of the episode, and for good reason.")
• Departures by Jeff Morris ("A look at the characters and their interactions as they bid farewell to three crewmembers, and as they themselves make some changes of their own. A look at Sonya-Geordi and at a possible Riker-Troi-Ro triangle!")
• Just Between Friends by Andra Marie Mueller ("A sequel/alternate ending to the episode, "Man of the People." Riker and Troi have quite a conversation after the events of that episode.")
• Honor's Wounds by D.J. Nicholson ("At Startleet Academy, young Jean-Luc Picard must deal with a cheating scandal that will shake his convictions to the core. Fortunately, Boothby is there to help him through this difficult time.")
• The Day It Fell Apart by Margaret O'Quinn ("Sela returns as the Enterprise conducts rescue operations at a failed colony. Doctor Crusher finds herself comforting a young girl who has lost her parents, and Picard finds himself in a confrontation with the Romulans.")

Issue 20

front cover of issue #20

back cover of issue #20 by Julie Nosal, was also used as a front cover of issue #24

Eridani 20 was published in April 1993 and contains 158 pages.

The art is by Audette, Caldwell, Davenport, Lawrence, Millard, Nosal, O'Quinn, and Sayles.

• Token by Mariann T. McDermott ("The crew of the Enterprise must contend with a mysterious woman who claims to be from the future while investigating a baffling phenomenon wreaking destruction on a colony's crops.") (24 pages)
• The Chains That Bind by Mindi French ("A Worf-Beverly story, set during "Chains of Command." As implied in the episode by their expressions, Worf and Beverly had a rather intense disagreement while in the shuttle en route back to the Enterprise following the failure of their mission. This short story tries to give a resolution to that argument, and builds up to the next story.") (7 pages)
• Invictus by D.J. Nicholson ("Set prior to the resolution of "Chains of Command." Picard has been ordered freed, but he must live with the doubt as to whether or not this is all an elaborate charade designed by the Cardassian interrogator to further demoralize and break him. An excellent story, told from Picard's point of view.") (17 pages)
• Loyalties by Jeff Morris ("The story of Ro Laren's decision of choosing whether or not to join the Starfleet crew aboard the Bajoran space station, Deep Space 9. Ro finds herself bucking orders once again, and, this time, she has an unusual ally.") (7 pages)
• Mutual Understandings by Mindi French ("This short story ties up a few loose ends from the previous three stories with yet another look at the intriguing Crusher~Worf relationship.") (8 pages)
• Unforgiven by Irene Deitel ("Set during the Deep Space Nine episode "Emissary." Picard must deal with Commander Benjamin Sisko's hatred and Counselor Deanna Troi is there to help. A look at Troi being a ship's counselor.") (3 pages)
• Without a Safety Net by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("Quite a different story from what we've grown to expect from Cyndi. Picard (who is injured), Riker, Data, LaForge and Troi are marooned on an icy world with a seemingly psychotic scientist. After six months there, things begin to get a little tense, and Troi is forced to consider some drastic therapy to prevent a complete breakdown in the friendships of the others.") Destined to be controversial story, Cyndi dares to suggest the unthinkable.") (67 pages)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 20

....[Having just finished reading ERIDANI 20], I would like to say that it was GREAT! EXCELLENT!! PRIMOM FANTASTIC!I MARVELOUS!! ORIGINAL!! STUPENDOUS!!! I really like the stories a lot (although I must admit that "Without a Safety Net’ by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet did get my hackles up a bit), but my all-time favorite story was "Invictus," by D.J. Nicholson. I am a big Picard fan. and the story sent a wonderful, tingly feeling all up and down my spine. "Invictus" (the Latin word for "unconquered") is one of the best TNG stories I have ever read. It is certainly much better than most of the Next Generation novels by PocketBooks. "Invictus" has a feeling a flavor of the Next Generation that PocketBooks has never been able to instill in any of their TNG books. "The Changing Picard" commentary, by M.J. Millard, caught my eye and I found myself agreeing with her on some points. BUT, taken as a whole, I find that I like Picard just the way he is. I would expostulate on this particular subject but I think that it would probably take more pages than I’m willing to write, and I probably wouldn’t be able to express myself clearly enough. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed ERIDANI 20.

ERIDANI 20 has to be one of the best you and the authors have ever put together! The four post-'Chain of Command' stories (The Chains That Bind,' ‘Invictus,' 'Loyalties' and 'Mutual Understandings') fit so perfectly together it was almost as if the three authors had consulted each other while writing their stories.

[Editor's Note: Actually, some of that was luck, and some of that was the skill of ERIDANI's assistant editor who wrote her stories so that they helped frame them together. -Randy]

D.J. Nicholson's 'Invictus' was a very bitingly real scenario, from the gritty description of Picard’s imminent release to Beverly's matter-of-fact report on the details of his torture and finally Ro's visit to Sickbay. Well done. D.J.!

I enjoyed Mindi French’s 'Mutual Understandings' very much. This is the type of P/C relationship I would like to see portrayed on the broadcast Next Gen — caring, respectful, and loving intimacy with the professional attitude always present and never secondary to the emotinal. Wonderful story, Mindi!

I also appreciated the biographical entry and Eridex. and I found Tom Audette's 'Paradox Park' delightfully bizarre!

I liked Token' by Meiriann T. McDermott for the way it showed how the Prime Directive could eventually evolve. Interesting idea: can you imagine Captain Kirk with one of those implants?

The Chains That Bind' (Mindi French). 'Invictus' (D.J. Nicholson), 'Loyalties' (Jeff Morris). 'Mutual Understandings' (French), and 'Unforgiven' (Irene Deitel): Iliked the way the stories would over-lap each other at times. (Since this is my first issue of ERIDANI; I'm curious if this is the norm, or did #20 just develop that way?) It gave it a 'novel-reading' type of feel that I liked. I enjoy reading sequels, series and 'based in the universe of type stories, anyway, so this was a pleasant surprise.

'Without A Safety Net' by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet was definitely my favorite. I think that Troi handled a difficult situation with the only option possible. I liked her Petroskin character, also: I hope that everything works out for him. I enjoyed Cyndi's style a lot

The Eridex, Bio Info and Timeline were nice to have, especially the biographical information. I love having all the pertinent facts on a character, like when their birthdate is. Ah, the little joys in life...

'Star Trek: Mutant Media Heroes' (Episode 3) was really funny! I'd have boon sorely tempted to space Mike and Archie before they reached Houser 704. (Although I WOULD like to see Quark's response to his now competition.)

Millard's commentary on Picard made some interesting points about his character's development or lack thereof. I wish that the people involved would at LEAST have his relationship with Crusher gel into something more definite: I think a lot of us do. It's a mystery to me why they’re so skittish about letting the crew have realistic relationships anyway. Just because Picard isn't Kirk doesn't mean that he can't be sexual. Don’t get me wrong: I will always be a fan of Jimbo. But Picard has a charisma you can feel thru that T.V. set I’ve tried to take the ‘wait and see' stance, but if this new season is the last one, then the clock is winding down fast folks.

I had never looked upon Picard's experiences in relation to the Hero's Journey: but M.J. mode on interesting point. It seems that he gets to grow one step forward, two steps back continually. Maybe his journey will complete this season, or as close to it as he'll be permitted.

The artwork was wonderful, particulariy the drawing of Ro by Julie Nosal on the cover. It's one of the reasons why I bought #20 from you at Shore Leave. The Baioran people are one of my favorites; I can’t help but like a race with strong females!

I also liked Barbara Caldwell and David Lawrence's work very much, and M.J. Millard's cartoons are a riot! I love seeing different art styles; the diversity out there is so amazing. I always look at a zine's artwork first. Not having any doesn’t mean I won’t buy it; a good story is still good. But for me having illos in a zine is like the cherry on sundae. I guess that I just never outgrew illustrated books.

I just finished reading my ERIDANI 20 — and I must admit that I'm thrilled. I can't remember the last time I finished a zine in such a short time. ERI #20 was nearly perfect. At least for me, as a Crusher/Ro/Troi fan.

It started with the wonderful (as ever!) cover by Julie Nosal.

The first thing I read was 'The Changing Picard.’ by M.J. Millard and the comment that came to my mind simply was 'Yes.' In essence, that’s my opinion as well. It was for Picard that I started watching TNG on a regular basis — but he became more isolated with each season and, in consequence, less interesting for me. Because of that, I absolutely enjoyed 'Lessons.' Don't care if it’s a 'Mary Sue' — it had a wonderful Picard in it.

As for the stories: Token," by M.T. McDermott, was a well-written, interesting story, even if I was just a little bit disappointed that the alien vessels just vanished, and we didn't learn anything about them.

The next five stories are building a wonderful complex. I don't know if this was intentional or just by chance. Even though they are from different authors, they lead over and merge one another in such a perfect way that it's a real pleasure to read them. My congratulations to all the authors! There are lots of good scenes for Beverly and Ro — exactly what I love to read.

And then there was “Without a Safety Net’...At this point, I really regret that English isn’t my [native] tongue, and I'm not able to express my feelings while reading this story. I think WOW! has to do for a starter. It is definitely one of the ten best stories I’ve ever read (or make that five). I couldn't lay down the zine and nearly missed my station on my way home from work. First of all, the story has this exotic touch which I love. And Cindy has managed to describe the pressure of sticking together for months and the basic need for sex so real, so understandable. Those characters are believable and down to Earth Human. There's no pathos nor heroism in them—and they absolutely caught me. The idea of the story was fascinating, to say at least os was Troi's therapy. I'm really sorry I can't describe it better. Perhaps it's enough to say that you gave me a wonderful day with your story, Cindy. Thank you!

I just wanted to comment how much I admired Overstreet's 'Without a Safety Net.' She built up the tension very well and was, as usual, skillful with all the characters. All I wished was that she had developed the situation even more. It was potentially even richer in character interaction. I thought it was a novel-length idea. I also liked all the related stories centering around 'Chains of Command.'

'Without a Safety Net’ - None of the characterizations seemed right, especially Data who wanted to do it with Counselor Troi simply because he figured she was doing with it with all the other guys and Data didn’t want to be left out. How extremely... weird. I never thought of Data as a lemming before, yet. there it was. When I read that part I didn't know whether to laugh or groan in horror. I usually enjoy the stories by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet even though the majority seems to revolve around Data get laid by some woman he comes across and immediately bonds with, but "Without a Safety Net* was just a little—okay, a lot hard to swallow. Cyndi Bayless Overstreet seems to be a fine zine writer, but I wish she would stop dwelling on Data as being fully functional." There's a lot more to Data than that—his innocence, his search for knowledge, his desire to be Human, etcetera—and those are the aspects of Data I wish Cyndi Bayless Overstreet would concentrate on.

Issue 21

cover of issue #21

Eridani 21 was published in October 1993 and contains 150 pages.

The art is by Audette, Lash, Nosal, and Sayles.

• The Inward Hell by D.J. Nicholson ("Jean-Luc Picard has inner conflicts about meeting the new commander of Deep Space Nine.") (7 pages)
• Creature of Conscience by Mariann T. McDermott ("A look at a devil in the dark that is terrorizing an isolated planet. But not all endings are happy ones.") (56 pages)
• Memories by Mary Soon Lee ("A follow-up to the episode "Schisms." William Riker is having nightmares after his encounters with the aliens from another dimension, and help comes from a friend.") (5 pages)
• The Age of Commencement by Martina Jarrett ("Worf teams up with Doctor Selar as they try to deal with Alexander's attempts to undergo a Klingon ritual.")(9 pages)
• Succession of Honor by Skye Dumoulin ("Worf and Alexander encounter a 'true' Klingon. Alexander is impressed by Commander Kalek, and Worf is concerned that this hero worship may drive the wedge between he and his son even deeper.") (11 pages)
• When Targs Fly by Deborah Price ("Deanna Troi is hard at work, trying to help Worf and Alexander iron out the rough spots.") (3 pages)
• Between the Cracks by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("This story, set during "Chains of Command," deals with Picard's personal crisis and ordeal.") (9 pages)
• Shadows by Gail H. Christison ("A Wesley story. Our favorite cadet is struggling to overcome the effects of "The Game."") (32 pages)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 21

ERIDANI 21 was just GREAT!

[...]

Now, on with the praises. "The Inward Hell,' by DJ. Nicholson, was another enjoyable Picard story. Nicholson's deft handling of Picard Is always a delight to read.

"Creature of Conscience," by Mariann T. McDermott was fantastic and sad. I wish the creature on the mining colony could have lived yet that was not to be. I found Doctor Elise Corder to be an interesting character. At last a story with Riker, Data, Worf and Geordil! It was so good to finally have Geordi on an away team adventure with the guys instead of stuck in Engineering by himself. Thank you, Mariann T. McDermott, for having Geordi down there in the thick of things. I so seldom read good Geordi action-adventure stories, and this one really pleased me a lot "Creature of Conscience’ was a joy to read.

The trio of Wort and Alexander stories were run to read. My favorite was "Age of Commencement’ by Martina Jarrett The interaction between Selar and Worf was electric and exciting. Boy, was it good.

"Memories," by Mary Soon Lee, was a pleasant surprise. I was expecting Deanna Troi to be the one who comforted Riker, but it turned out to be Picard. I liked the Picard-Riker interaction (they actually talked meaningfully to each other!). I appreciated the fact that Picard was actually able to help Riker through his problem and realty be there for him. The bit of humor there at the end was a nice touch. ‘Memories' was a good Picard-Riker story.

‘Between the Cracks,' by Jo-Ann Lassiter, was a rather dark and grim tale of Captain Picard during “Chains of Command." It certainly wasn’t exactly what I was expecting. Hurt/Comfort, yet, but it also was full of cruelty, pain and suffering. I felt somewhat disquieted by the end of the story. Ah, yes. I was really impressed by it Jo-Ann Lassiter really goes into Picard's character in a way few zine authors ever have, and I greatly appreciate her for that I hope she'll have a story or two for ERIDANI 22.

“Shadows," by Gail J. Christison, was a tightly woven, intense and very well written Wesley Crusher story. I liked what I read. Wesley, so very traumatized by the events of The Game" and turning his back on those he felt had betrayed him, ultimately betrays himself. It's always good to read a story about Wesley as a Human being who is fallible, rather than the infallible boy genius. Gail J. Christison really explored Wesley's character in a way I've never read before. A fine job, Gail (much better than your other piece)....

The front and back covers by Julie Nosal were exceptional! She just keeps getting better and better. The 'toons by Glenn Lash were...ummm...pretty sarcastic. They were interesting... yes. very interesting...maybe even somewhat apropos. I think I like them. The interior artwork by Mickey Sayles were really good. My favorite was the Geordi drawing on p. 111.

ERIDANI 21 was another wonderful issue. I'm really looking forward to the next issue of ERIDANI, INVOLUTION and TANTALUS (odd-numbered, of course). Thank you all for your fine, hard work. You guys are just great, and y’all never cease to impress me with your high quality zines. Keep up the good work!!

...Finally got the chance to read ERIDANI 21 and was pleased to find that this issue offered three stories focusing on Worf (my favorite character) and Alexander. Two other stories stood out. for me. I was very intrigued by the episode "Schisms" and enjoyed Mary Soon Lee's continuation in "Memories."

The other was "Shadows," by Gail Christison. I've missed seeing Wesley on the series, so it was a treat to see a story featuring him. Can't wait to se what ERIDANI 22 will be offering.

..I made a day trip to Jacksonville for Creation Con. I met Ann, and bought ERIDANI 21 there. I read it from cover to cover before I returned to Atlanta. When I finished Gail Christison's "Shadows," I said to myself. 'Damn, I wish I had written that story!" She did a wonderful job in filling in the gap between The Game" and 'The First Duty," and in showing why Wesley would have been willing to follow Nick Locarno) off a cliff. Please pass my compliments on to her when you have the chance.

Becky Woods' commentary also sparked some thoughts. I think it might be time for a' Reality Check’ — it’s all too easy to forget that the characters and adventures of the entire Star Trek universe are elements of a very specialized form of fiction....

Thanks for the contributor's copy of ERIDANI 21. I liked every one of the stories, but I think Mariann T. McDermott's "Creature of Concience' had the slight edge on the others — it succeeded in being genuinely creepy. For my personal taste. I'd prefer the comic strip to take up fewer than ten pages of the fanzine, but I did enjoy the cartoons at the end of the stories.

Thanks for all your work on ERIDANI.

I enjoyed ERIDANI 21 so much. When I opened the envelope, the covers by Julie Nosal just stunned me. they were so well detailed and striking. And the rest of the zine didn't disappoint. I have to single out especially "Shadows" by Gail H. Christison. Since I got into trouble at work because I couldn't stop reading

I've always felt a little sorry for the Wesley character, especially when I read somewhere that Gene Roddenberry had conceived of Wesley as the kind of boy he'd wished he'd been and then the writers on the show didn't know how to write for that character, a boy who just happened to be a genius. Gail not only linked the events of "The Game" and The First Duty," but she did so in away that gave Wesley so much depth and humanity. She has such a deft hand with emotional honesty I never once felt like things were being explained to death — they didn't need to be explained, Wesley's pain and uncertainty and defiance all made perfect sense. Gail wrote a seamless, believable end very touching story, and I thank you for publishing it.

After reading ERIDANI 21, I've decided fan fiction has to become one of my budget priorities. I’ve felt for awhile that ST:TNG has been simply "holding steady" and not giving the characters the chance for real growth and relationships. I think that because the writers know that this is the last year of the series they've been trying harder to come up with character- strong stories, but it's really a case of too little, too late." Fan fiction gives me satisfaction where the show only hints at possibilities. For instance, it still boggles my mind that the writers purposely set up Crusher and Picard at the very beginning of the series and it took them seven years to look at the implications of that — and when they finally wrote it, they still held off on actually letting Crusher and Picard proceed to the logical next step, exploring a relationship! I don't have to wait seven years with fan fiction. And reading fan fiction is like having seven or eight pen pals who’ve written a letter with their take on the show in the form of a story. It's nice to feel connected to so many people that way.

And I wanted to say I’m happy you have a zine devoted to Picard. I've always felt a little sorry for him. too, because he's such a lone wolf. He doesn't sit in on the poker games, he's not invited to Riker’s quarters to eat omelettes, he’s not the first (or second, or third) person told that Data’s having a baby. He's not seen socializing casually with anyone except Crusher during their breakfasts (which were only shown starting in the third or fourth season), for most of the series he's not comfortable around children, and no one calls him Jean-Luc except Crusher and Guinan. Command sits really heavily on him, and it's telling that the shows that take a good look at his character are the ones that separate him from the rest of the crew (like when he's tortured by the Cardassians. when the Ferengi take him back to the Stargazer, when Q makes him relive his academy days, when he's romping with Vash). When he's defined by his interactions with the crew, there’s so much he holds back. I'm glad you're giving him the attention he deserves.

So, enclosed is my order form, paid for with what's left of my bonus check after holiday shopping. It’s my gift to me, and I hope I can buy your zines more regularly in the coming year. You’ve got a great crew of regular contributors.

A few comments on ERIDANI 21. As a Picard fan. of course, I was delighted with the number of stories in which the good captain played a significant role. Not all the Picard writers have abandoned ERIDANI for INVOLUTION, it seems. Speaking of INVOLUTION and its editor, JoAnn Lassiter, her work continues to gain depth and breadth. ‘Between the Cracks‘ was one of the best yet. Very dark, yet had me racing through to see how it would end. I can believe that a person in such circumstances might have thoughts very like what Jo ascribed to Picard, with or without coercion from his tormentors.

Lately, there's been a tendency in some fan fiction to create an overly emotional relationship between Picard and Riker that is totally unsupported by their characters in the series. In Mary Soon Lee's 'Memories,’ however, we see a highly emotional scene between the two, but she manages to make it work within the context of the two men’s personalities. By citing Picard's experiences as Kamin (which fan writers, unlike those on the series, have realized would have a profound effect on the man), she makes it believable for him to provide some support for his first officer in a period of emotional crisis. And it is also in character for Riker to be reluctant (and embarrassed) to accept that support. A difficult balancing act, nicely handled.

And high praise for Gail J. Christison, who is rapidly becoming an important voice in fan fiction. I consider The Game' to be absolutely the worst episode of the entire six and a half seasons of the series to date, and yet Ms. Christison wrote a story based on that horrible episode (the 'Spock's Brain' of ST:TNG) that was good enough to not only make me read every word, but even to re-read it. Her Wesley is a young man struggling with the kind of disillusionment that most of us experienced as adolescents, and, for once, we are allowed to see him as much more (and less) than a 'boy genius." She also make it serve as a nice lead-in to The First Duty." Really wonderful.

As for the recent editorials regarding the character of Picard. I agree with much of what has been said, but I also think that anyone who went through what he's been through over the duration of the series would necessarily lose of the childlike wonder which was so appealing in the first season. The events of 'Best of Both Worlds,’ 'Inner Light’ and “Chain of Command’ would have to make you somewhat world-weary (galaxy-weary?). It’s more appropriate for him to be wrestling with demons than chasing unicorns at this point in his life. And yet we still get glimpses of the man who was so eager to see “what's out there,’ as of late. In 'Liaisons,' for instance, even though he's just been the subject of an abduction and attempted seduction, he can still appreciate his alien captors for their direct (and novel) approach to seeking information. He’s still the only character, aside from Data, who wouldn't seem just as natural working in an office building as on a starship.

Issue 22

front cover of issue #22

back cover of issue #22

Eridani 22 was published in March 1994 and contains 170 pages.

The art is by Arla Fontaine-Kerins, Glenn Lash, M.J. Millard, Julie Nosal, Joey Rodrigues, and Gabi Stiene.

Randall Landers states in the editorial that Priscilla Ball and Mindi French edited about 90% of this issue.

• Hailing Frequencies Open (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• Tokens of Remembrance by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet ("A Data-origin story wherein we meet Doctor Leah Aaron, the woman who actually initiated contact with the android the Tripoli discovered with the use of an apple! An outstanding story which is sure to please our Data fan readers.") (9)
• We Never Said Goodbye by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("Set just after the events of "The Battle," both Beverly Crusher and Jean-Luc Picard resolve to confront their mutual ghosts, and one ghost in particular. An excellent insight into the Picard-Crusher relationship, into their relationship with Jack Crusher.") (52)
• Ode to Spot, poetry by Data (61)
• Dix & Dee by Raven Blackfeather and Arla F ("Deanna Troi visits Jean-Luc Picard on the holodeck during one of the Dixon Hill programs.") (65)
• Re-attached by Marge Robles. A look at the Picard-Crusher relationship after the episode "Attached." Hers is a rather unique view of what the aftermath would be.")(68)
• Awakenings by Amanda le Bas de Plumetot ("An in depth Picard story as he struggles to overcome nightmares caused by a malevolent force. Doctor Crusher and Counselor Troi are trying to help him, but their ministrations alone cannot save him. Will he have the strength to save himself from this deadly trap?") (81)
• Appearances by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("This story relates the point-of-view of Josef Reichart, an Enterprise crewman.")
• The Other Side of the Coin by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("This story gives the reader Jean-Luc Picard's perspective on the situation in the previous.") (115)
• Boldly Going Where No Law Professors Have Gone Before, an article by Professor Paul R. Joseph (167)
• Reality Check, editorial by Randal T. White, Jr. (169)

• 

  from issue #22, M.J. Millard

• 

  from issue #22, Arla Fontaine-Kerins

• 

  from issue #22, Glenn Lash

• 

  from issue #22, Glenn Lash

• 

  from issue #22, Glenn Lash

Issue 23

front cover of issue #23

back cover of issue #23

Eridani 23 was published in October 1994 and contains 170 pages.

The art is by Lash, Millard, Nosal, Rodrigues, and Sayles.

• Unto the Breach by R. Scott Spradlin ("An action-adventure techno-drama. An away team's capture leaves Worf in command of the Enterprise during the crisis.") (47 pages)
• The Road Back by D.J. Nicholson ("A look at Picard's long road to recovery following become a Borg. He and Riker are having a difficult time relating to one another. Fortunately, Beverly Crusher and Deanna Troi are there to smooth out the rough edges and the pain.") (11 pages)
• Marooned by Marge Robles ("A Picard/Crusher hurt-comfort story involving a shuttle crash.") (15 pages)
• Borg Debris by Joan Winston ("An alternate universe story wherein Picard/Locutus was killed, and William T. Riker is a galactic hero ... one terribly unhappy and extremely depressed galactic hero.") (29 pages)
• The Sound of Distant Thunder by Jo-Ann Lassiter ("Set after "Parallels," this story makes for an interesting couplet with Joanie's story. (5 pages)
• PsyQLogy by Susan Bredon-Smith ("One of the few Q stories we've ever published, and set shortly after the events of "Best of Both Worlds" (isn't it remarkable how often story ideas have been generated by that episode?). Q has come aboard the Enterprise to torment the recovering Jean-Luc Picard. Fortunately, Picard has a powerful ally.") (7 pages)
• The Gate to Paradise by Rosemary Cullen ("The Enterprise crew deals with a rather large family with a unique cause.") (16 pages)
• Catalyst by Joan M. Gleckler ("An adventure as the Enterprise crew find themselves involved a colonial rescue operation.") (34 pages)

Issue 24

flyer for issue #24

Eridani 24 was published in April 1995 and contains 145 pages. Artwork by Gail Molnar, Julie Nosal, Joey Rodrigues, Mickey Sayles, and Gabi Stiene.

There are multiple versions of the front cover.

• Hailing Frequencies Open (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• Unshackled by D.J. Nicholson ("Jean-Luc Picard, Beverly Crusher and Worf find themselves returning to Cardassian territory, this time with permission and on a mission of mercy to a colony. Unfortunately, they discover an old foe instead.") (5)
• The Errand by R. Scott Spradlin ("A top-notch Ro story as the ensign finds herself going behind Cardassian lines to pick up a special package for Starfleet Intelligence.") (33)
• The Lighthouse by Denise Sodaro ("Picard finds love on an alien world. But how did he get there?") (51)
• They've Done It Again by Stephen Mendenhall ("The Prime Directive is taken to its logical conclusion.") (65)
• An Early Birthday by Marge Robles ("Our first post-Star Trek: Generations adventure is a Picard/Crusher story set on the U.S.S. Farragut on its way back to Earth.") (69)
• Widow's Walk by Susan Bredon-Smith ("This piece answers the question: Why did Dr. Beverly Crusher leave the Enterprise after serving aboard for a year?") (77)
• The World Wizard by Kira Bacal ("We meet Geordi LaForge's sister in this action-adventure story which explores their relationship as she and the Enterprise carry out a hazardous mission for Starfleet.") (95)
• Master Data by Melissa Davis ("How did Data's cat, Spot, become pregnant?") (135)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed (145)

• 

  cover of issue #24

• 

  another version of the cover, issue #24 by Julie Nosal, also used as the back cover of #20

• 

  another version of the cover of #24, this one was also used as the back cover of #23

Issue 25

cover of issue #25

Eridani 25 was published in 1995. It is 166 pages long.

The art is by Julie Nosal, Mickey Sayles, Debbie Perron, Joey Rodrigues and Grant Maicy Smith.

• Hailing Frequencies Open, editorial (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• Intruder Alert by Kira Bacal ("Jean-Luc Picard and the crew of the Enterprise deal with a mischievous intruder aboard the ship.") (4)
• Diary of a Cadet by R. Scott Spradlin ("If you have wondered why Wesley Crusher left Starfleet Academy, this story fills in some of the details.") (21)
• Bindings by Rosemary Cullen ("An alternative vision to Star Trek: Generations. The Enterprise is undergoing a refit, her crew has scattered to other assignments and mysterious things are happening at the Utopia Planetia Shipyards. Will Picard, Data and the rest of the former Enterprise crew find out what is going on before it's too late?") (33)
• The Battle by T.M. O'Ree ("One of two short vignettes: Worf flees to the holodeck to avoid someone he'd rather not see.") (60)
• Article XXI by Grant Maloy Smith ("Set immediately after the events in Star Trek: Generations. Night has fallen on the downed Enterprise saucer section and things have started to disappear. Worf, Troi and a skeleton security team investigate.") (81)
• Day of the Jackal by T.M. O'Ree ("The second vignette with the same premise as Worf escapes to the holodeck.") (105)
• Mischief by J. Bos and J. Callard ("Pranks abound on the Enterprise as Captain Picard and the crew attempt to carry out an important diplomatic mission.") (107)
• Walnut Canyon by Judith Medina ("Family and friends help Beverly Crusher mark an anniversary.") (119)
• Into the Breach by BEKi ("A story, set on Deep Space Nine, about Riker's attempts to heal the breach between Captain Picard and Commander Sisko.") (150)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed (166)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 25

This issue has a definite feeling of Halloween about it, pranks, mischievous intruders and other mysterious happenings abound.

Issue 26

cover of issue #26

Eridani 26 was published in April 1996 and contains 164 pages.

The art is by Davenport, Lash, Nosal, Rodrigues, and Tarhuntassa.

• Terrorist Tactics by Kira Bacal ("An old friend of Captain Picard's is caught up in an interplanetary conflict. Can Picard and the crew of the Enterprise save his life and negotiate a settlement to the war without violating the Prime Directive?")
• And the Chances After That, Version 2 by N.B. Thayer ("What would have happened if Commander Riker had been stranded along with Lieutenant Riker at the end of the Next Generation episode, "Second Chances"?")
• Bugs by Ulrike Schaefer ("The Enterprise's Sickbay suffers from an infestation. A humorous look at how Doctor Crusher copes with a rather unusual problem.")
• Perhaps We Shouldn't Be Afraid... by Marge Robles ("A look at the Picard/Crusher relationship in the aftermath of the events in Star Trek: Generations.")
• Rogue Encounter by Kira Bacal ("A prequel to her story "A Matter of Trust", which appeared in Outpost 3. Here, we, and the Enterprise crew first meet the intergalactic rogue, Jake Bennet.")

Issue 27

cover of issue #27

Eridani 27 was published in October 1996 and contains 146 pages.

The art is by Davenport, Tarhuntassa, and Trevor.

• Confusion by Kira Bacal ("An archeological survey of a previously unknown civilization leads to problems for Commander Riker and the crew of the Enterprise.")
• Return of the Feds by D.G. Littleford ("The lotians are back, this time to wreak havoc in the 24th century. Captain Picard and Ambassador Spock must collaborate to defuse the situation caused by Star Trek's favorite gangsters.")
• House Cleaning by Rosalie Blazej ("After Star Trek: Generations, Commander Riker and Counselor Troi discuss his new assignment while he packs up the accumulated possessions of a lifetime.
• Inculcation by Althea Katz ("A story about Beverly Howard's life on Arvada III.")
• In a Treetop by Jordan Trevor ("An alternative ending to the episode, "Rascals." Suppose the transporter had worked in reverse and Picard had ended up as an infant?")
• Indulgence by D.J. Nicholson ("Another post-Generations story. While waiting for a ship's command to become available, Captain Picard accepts a temporary assignment to go undercover into disputed space to find out what happened to the U.S.S. Voyager.")

Issue 28

cover of issue #28

Eridani 28 was published in April 1997 and contains 134 pages.

The art is by Davenport and Tarhuntassa.

• The Wedding Gift by Denise Tanaka. A Noonian Soong story ("It is his ex-wife Juliana's wedding day, and he arrives with a special wedding gift.")
• Anniversaries by Margaret A. Basta ("Captain Jean-Luc Picard celebrates a special anniversary while reflecting on past celebrations with Counselor Troi.")
• Homeless by Peter J. Hartman ("A distress signal has been sent out from Sector 001 and long-range sensors indicate that the Earth is no longer in orbit where it should be. As Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the crew of the Enterprise race to investigate what has happened, they share their memories and wonder what the future might hold.")
• The Top Ten Jobs Captain Jean-Luc Picard Can Do While Awaiting Reassignment by Franklin Robin Steele IV, illustrated by Anne Davenport ("A humorous look at what Captain Picard might have done after the crash of the Enterprise-D in Star Trek: Generations.")

• 

  from issue #28

• 

  from issue #28

Reactions and Review: Issue 28

Two long stories, one short composition, and one cartoon collection make up this latest edition to Orion Press' longest running TNG zine.

"The Wedding Gift" by Denise Tanaka is a little tale detailing the final meeting between Dr. Noonian Soong and Juliana Soong, soon to be Tainer. On the day of her wedding, Noonian surprises his ex-wife, hoping to settle some of the differences between them. And when they part, he leaves her with his best wishes for a happy future life and an explanation. A remarkable and touching vignette.

Many zine writers, if they keep at it long enough and remain in one genre, eventually create their own universes—their own histories, weaving together events (televised or not) and characters (televised or not) with their own visions for the future. Such is the case in Margaret Basta's "Anniversaries."

Sensing a bit of melancholy in her captain, Counselor Troi visits with him, and over some wine, draws from him his own personal tradition. Since the loss of the Stargazer, Jean-Luc Picard has spent every anniversary of that event toasting his long lost ship and comrades. Each anniversary is accounted for and the reminiscing ends with Picard's discovery of a treasured gift in his ready room upon taking command of the 1701D. Although "Anniversaries" is cleverly written, the Tipster didn't care for some of Basta's characterizations. Picard's life is so entwined with those of Guinan, Admiral Necheyev, and even Doctor Crusher's Vulcan second, Dr. Selar, that these relationships bear little if any resemblance to those depicted on the televised episodes. There is nothing wrong with creative supposition, but it seemed as if there was some heavy duty string pulling to make all this fit. And the Tipster prefers the characters to be more accurate extrapolations of those seen on TV. Still, for those who would like the gap in Picard's pre-Enterprise history filled in, it is a very inventive and ambitious story.

What if you were far from home and received a message that said, home is no more? In Peter J. Hartman's "Homeless," the crew of the Enterprise is faced with exactly that same dilemma. Sector 001 is under attack from an unknown adversary, and long range sensors soon reveal that Earth is no more. As the Enterprise races for 'home,' gathering various allies together, the crew must deal with their losses while clinging to memories and fragments of hope and preparing for inevitable battle. And when the battle is joined, Picard must face some old enemies and some surprises. An enjoyable story.

Finally, Anne Davenport sketches some job descriptions for Jean-Luc Picard, former captain of the Enterprise D. Silly and delightful as always, Anne!

Issue 29

cover of issue #29, Janet D'Airy, the back cover is blank

Eridani 29 was published in January 1998 and contains 168 pages.

The art is by D'Airo, Davenport, and Steele.

• Hailing Frequencies Open (2)
• Spock Grew Up by Richard van Frank ("An account of a bridge conversation the Enterprise crew has regarding Ambassador Spock.") (3)
• Ghosts of the Past by Franklin Robin Steele IV and Linda M. O'Dette & Douglas J. Walczak ("The story of Picard coming to terms with Starfleet's plans for his old ship, the Stargazer.") (9)
• The Things that Juliana Didn't Say by Eve Robinson ("The account of the last days of the Soong family on Omicron Theta before the Crystalline Entity destroyed the colony.") (63)
• Traces by D.J. Nicholson ("Captain Picard's first hours aboard his new command, the Enterprise-E, which is still under construction.") (80)
• The Beauty of Our Weapons by Miranda Greene ("How should the Federation deal with a society whose fondest dream would be to be absorbed by the Borg? Captain Picard undertakes an away mission to deal with an immediate crisis on this planet.") (86)
• Eternal Moonlight by Lindsey Shelton ("Captain Picard is abducted by a mysterious ship, with very interesting consequences.") (118)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed (168)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 29

Editor Priscilla Ball has put together a fine collection of thought provoking and entertaining stories and then proceeded to cover it all with a marvelous Janet D'Airo color cover. Loved those expressions, Janet!

Once again, one of the highlights of an Orion Press zine is a story by D.J. Nicholson. D.J.'s characterizations are absolutely perfect, the described emotions evocatively thought provoking. Her short story, "Traces," describes a very private meeting between a man and the new lady in his life and the memories, regrets, and euphoria this new relationship generates. Aa the Tipster has already said, perfect. We are all aware of how the Federation views the Borg and any encroachment they attempt. But what if a Federation world advocated, in fact, desired, assimilation. What if this society saw the Borg as a beautiful and superior advancement rather than an abomination and loss of personal freedom. Such is the premise of "The Beauty of Our Weapons," by Miranda Greene.

This story is at the same time disturbing and remarkable. Miranda's characters are well drawn while her descriptions of the story's events remarkably vivid and powerful. And on top of this, at the story's end she poses a question which is quite difficult to answer. Definitely a first rate story.

Lindsey Shelton's "Eternal Moonlight" describes Picard's abduction by a mysterious and legendary race, known to Guinan, and difficult for the Enterprise's command staff to understand. Except for Deanna Troi, who offers her captain an unique "out" to his dilemma. An interesting tale and certainly compelling reading, and the character of Eshera was a strong and well developed character, but the Tipster isn't into the genre.

"Ghosts of the Past" by Franklin Robin Steele IV, Linda M. O'Dette, and Douglas J. Walczak is written in the style of a script, of which the Tipster isn't terribly fond. But besides that personal preference, it describes the newest Federation project in the ever evolving defense against the Borg. Picard is given a choice to play a very prominent role in this plan and he must decide if his own personal preferences and history and this project can coexist.

Issue 30

cover of issue #30, Janet D'Airo

Eridani 30 was published in October 1999, is digest-sized and contains 160 pages.

The art is by D'Airo, and Lash.

• The Night the Trek Began by Richard van Frank. The author's version of how the whole Star Trek phenomenon started.")
• The Binzaati Vortex by William F.B. Vodrey ("Geordi LaForge must devise a way to save one of the Federation's most eminent warp-theory scientists, a Medusan.")
• The Dolassen Confrontation by William F.B. Vodrey ("Commander Riker and Lieutenant Commander Worf square off with an alien race to save a primitive world.")
• The Plate's the Thing by H.K. Swift ("Commander Riker returns to the Enterprise to find the entire crew behaving strangely. Can he solve the problem before a situation with the Romulans escalates?")
• The Madness of King Jean by Miranda Greene ("The Enterprise is stranded in orbit above an alien planet, and the crew is slowly losing their minds.")
• A Study in Scarlett by D.J. Nicholson ("Vash plots an adventure for Dixon Hill.")
• Excavations by San McCadden ("Picard and Sarek's wife Perin are reunited during an important conference on Vulcan.")
• Search and Rescue by Louise Ellis ("It's Beverly Crusher to the rescue when Jean-Luc Picard goes missing.")
• Shem by Althea Katz ("A post-"Survivors" story. Picard reflects upon the destruction of an entire race for the love of one woman.")
• The Once and Future Captain by BEKi ("A look at William Riker as he prepares to assume the "big chair" on the Enterprise.")
• Must All Good Things...? by Lynn Lorton ("A post-"All Good Things" story where Picard and Crusher explore their relationship.")
• What If...? by D.J. Nicholson ("Captain Picard and Q quietly reminisce about their past encounters over brandy.")