Eridani

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

Zine
Title:	Eridani
Publisher:	Orion Press
Editor(s):	Randall Landers, then Priscilla J. Ball
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. It was mostly an anthology zine, but occasionally novellas were published as part of the series.

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."

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.

Summaries below from the publisher's flyers.

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'mnot 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.

Issue 1

front cover of issue #1, Melody Rondeau

back cover of issue #1, Marie Williams

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.

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

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 empathie 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 Wesleyi* 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 [she 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 easeful) 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.

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 Editor (2)
• Data Banks (3)
• Have You Ever Tasted a Tree? -- a novella 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)
• Artwork by Linda Baker, Julie Cesari, Robert Jan, Christine Myers, Brenda Perry, Gennie Summers, and Marie Williams.

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, 108-pages, and contains the long Data novel called, Starry, Starry Night by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet.

• artwork by Robert Jan, Jeanne Matthews and 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.

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. Stories and artwork by Ash Hays (a novella), Chris Dickenson, Jackie Edwards, Cyndi Bayless Overstreet, Robert Jan, Gennie Summers and more.

• Alveda 3 -- by Ash Hays. A Picard/Crusher novella. It's the tale of the tragic Alveda 3 colony, and I'm sure you'll enjoy It.
• 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...
• Artwork by Baker, Dixon, Jan, Perry, and Summers.

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 "Alveda 3" presented arelationship 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 Iaccepted the premise for the purpose of the story, Ifound myself enjoying it. Picard seemed like afish out of water, floundering uncharacteristically but the rest of the crew seemed to be well portrayed. Ialso 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

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

Issue 5

front cover of issue #5, Julie Nosal

back cover of issue #5, Marty Seigrist

flyer for issue #5

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

• 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)
• Artwork by Jim Boursaw, Barbara Caldwell, Julie Nosal, Melody Rondeau, and Marty Seigrist.

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.

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

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. Riker & Data cover by Siegrist.

• 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 "AngelOne." 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)
• Artwork by Michelle Benoit, Barbara Caldwell, Janet D'Airo, Susan Leinbach, Marty Siegrist, and Tanje/Janet Wells.

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  from issue #7

• 

  from issue #7

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.

• 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 wonderful story about a young woman and an android on a planet. (38)
• It Was a Very Good Year—by Kimberley Junius. An amusing little story about a very difficult time in the life of one teenager named Beverly Crusher... (75)
• A First Time—by Chris Dickenson. A short, provocative 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 wonderful Data story set just after "Offspring." (102)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed (110)
• Artwork by Barbara Caldwell, David Lawrence, Susan Leinbach, Julie Nosal, and Wendy Purcell.

• 

  inside 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. LaForge cover by Nosal.

• Hailing Frequencies Open (2)
• DataBanks (3)
• To Care for Someone—by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet. A delightful tale of Data and Troi which picks up where "Tin Man" left off and carries the two characters into previously unexplored waters. (6)
• 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)
• Artwork by Michelle Benoit, Barbara Caldwell, Steven K. Dixon, David Lawrence, Susan Leinbach, Julie Nosal (front and back covers), and Gennie Summers.

• 

  from issue #9, Barbara Caldwell

• 

  from issue #9, David Lawrence

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  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.

Issue 10

back cover of issue #10, Julie Nosal

back cover of issue #10

flyer for issue #10

Eridani 10 was published in October 1990 and contains 105 pages. It is a single novel by Jo-Ann Lassiter called, "More Than Friends." Artwork by Chris Dickenson, Michelle Benoit and more.

• 

  from issue #10

• 

  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.

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. It has a cover by Julie Nosal. Stories and artwork by Jeanne-Marie Martin, Jo-Ann Lassiter, BEKi, E. Brooks, Barbara J. Caldwell, Susan Deborah Smith, Michelle Benoit and more.

• 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.
• Artwork by Benoit, Caldwell, D'Airo, Lawrence, Martin, Millard, Myers, and Nosal.

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  from issue #11

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  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 l 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 Caplain 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.

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. 1992 FanQ winner. The covers are by Julie Nosal. Stories and artwork by Chris Dickenson, Barbara J. Caldwell, Jeanne-Marie Martin, Michelle Benoit, Susan Deborah Smith, Julie Nosal and more.

• 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 firstcontact 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)
• Artwork by Benoit, Caldwell, D'Airo, Martin, and Nosal.

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Issue 13

front cover of issue #13

back cover of issue #13

flyer for issue #13

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

• 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. (57 pages)
• 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. (4 pages)
• The Results of Inquiry—by Denise Hays. Set after "Identity Crisis." Data decides to draw Geordi LaForge into a conversation they both may regret. (7 pages)
• With Pain is Fraught Our Sweetest Songs—by Janna Stockinger. A wonderful Picard-Wesley story as the two confer before Wes' departure. (12 pages)
• Permission—by Barbara Robertson. An off-the-wall kind of story as Beverly Crusher learns to deal with a pesky ghost and her own feelings. (10 pages)
• 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. (8 pages)
• What the Blind Man Sees—by Michelle Benoit. A LaForge story wherein circumstances help Geordi make a decision. (3 pages)
• 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. (5 pages)
• 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. (4 pages)
• Artwork by BEKi, Benoit, Caldwell, Lawrence, Nosal, and Wong.

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Issue 14

front cover of issue #14

flyer for issue #14

Eridani 14 was published in September 1991 and contains 214 pages. Stories and artwork by Michelle Benoit, BEKi, Christine Myers, Jordan Trevor, Jo-Ann Lassiter, Jenniver Adams, Jeff Martin and more.

• The Days After—by Jordan Trevor. An extremely well-done 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 touching 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. A superlative piece of writing!
• Artwork by BEKi, Benoit, Caldwell, D'Airo, Lawrence, Myers, Millard, and Nosal.

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.

• 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. A well-written story. (59 pages)
• Curly Tom—by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet. Set after "In Theory," Data decides to experiment with his social interaction programs. (17 pages)
• Man and Imagination—by Jennifer Adams. Computer programmers come aboard the Enterprise, researching their latest project: an Enterprise-based gaming program. (33 pages)
• Hidden Treasure—by Andra Marie Mueller. The aftermath of "The Host," and how Riker, Troi and Crusher come to terms with what happened. (3 pages)
• The Hollow Spot—by BEKi. Riker and Guinan discussing Baraash, Jean-Luc and the emotions of a troubled executive officer. (4 pages)
• 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. (7 pages)
• 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." (6 pages)
• 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. (13 pages)
• Echo—by BEKi. Yet another look at the events set up by "The Host." (6 pages)
• 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. (4 pages)
• The Wraith—by BEKi. Riker "possessed" by an alien entity. Although similar to "The Lonely Among Us," this piece transcends that episode. (24 pages)
• Unanswered Questions—by Andra Marie Mueller. A final look at Odan's influence on Riker and Troi. (2 pages)
• 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. (44 pages)
• Shadows—by Andra Marie Mueller. A post-"Best of Both Worlds II" short story. (4 pages)
• Artwork by Caldwell, D'Airo, Lawrence, Miles, Millard, Nosal, Connie Slatton, and Cynthia Slatton.

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

• 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. An excellent story! (6)
• MisQued—by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet. A sexy little Data romp involving Q, a young woman and a surprise or two. Quite an interesting story...quite. (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. Touching, to say the least. (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. It's probably BEKi's best work published yet. (99)
• Star Trek: The Next Generation Episode Survey Results (135)
• Hailing Frequencies Closed (136)

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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.

[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."

Issue 17

cover of issue #17

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

• Aftereffects—by Mary Soon Lee. A truly intense 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.
• 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.
• 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?
• 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.
• Clouds—by Cyndi Bayless Overstreet. A delightful character story featuring Geordi LaForge and Data as they spend some idle time together.
• The Journal of the Sherlock Holmes Society of London—by Susan Deborah Smith. Another Geordi-Data story, this time spending idle moments together.
• Artwork by Caldwell, Lawrence, Miles, Millard, Nosal, and O'Quinn.

Issue 18

front cover of issue #18

back cover of issue #18

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

• 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." It's an outstanding story, one you will cherish.
• 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.
• Consequences—by Rosalie Blazej. A follow-up to "'The Outcasts." Feeling guilty about what happened, Riker turns to Troi for help.
• 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.
• The Gift—by Elizabeth Knauel. The first of two companion pieces which deal with the episode, "I, Borg."
• The Heart of the Nautilus—by Madalena A. Mumford. Riker's explores of a unique world and meets its unique inhabitant.
• 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.
• 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. An excellent story!
• Artwork by Audette, Lawrence, Millard, Nosal, O'Quinn, and Slatton.

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Issue 19

front cover of issue #19

back cover of issue #19

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

• 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 good 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. Aet 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.
• Artwork by Tom Audette, Barbara Caldwell, David Lawrence, M.J. Millard, Julie Nosal, Margaret O'Quinn, and Connie Slatton.

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.

• 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. An excellent 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)
• Artwork by Audette, Caldwell, Davenport, Lawrence, Millard, Nosal, O'Quinn, and Sayles.

Issue 21

cover of issue #21

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

• 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)
• Artwork by Audette, Lash, Nosal, and Sayles.

Issue 22

front cover of issue #22

back cover of issue #22

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

• 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. A cute story! (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 indepth 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. An interesting exercise in fiction, one that I'm sure you'll appreciate. (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)
• Artwork by Arla Fontaine-Kerins, Glenn Lash, M.J. Millard, Julie Nosal, Joey Rodrigues, and Gabi Stiene.

Issue 23

front cover of issue #23

back cover of issue #23

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

• 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 entertaining adventure as the Enterprise crew find themselves involved a colonial rescue operation. (34 pages)
• Artwork by Lash, Millard, Nosal, Rodrigues, and Sayles.

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)

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

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  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. Artwork for this issue was provided 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.

• 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.
• Artwork by Davenport, Lash, Nosal, Rodrigues, and Tarhuntassa.

Issue 27

cover of issue #27

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

• Confusion—by Kira Bacal. An archeological survey of a previously unknown civilization leads to problems for Commander Riker and the crew of the Enterprisse.
• 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.
• Artwork by Davenport, Tarhuntassa, and Trevor.

Issue 28

cover of issue #28

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

• 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.
• Artwork by Davenport and Tarhuntassa

• 

  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.

• 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)
• Artwork by D'Airo, Davenport, and Steele.

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 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.
• Artwork by D'Airo, and Lash.