Inside Scoop page 1

THE FED DATASPACE TRAVEL GUIDE: SCHOOL, BRAIN SYSTEM

by Trilleth

Continuing my regular feature in the Fed2 Star: a travel guide telling potential visitors what you can expect from the varied worlds in the Galaxy. I'll be alternating my visits between old, long-established worlds, and new ones which have only been linked to the trading routes recently.

I found myself briefly in a desolate mood, so I jaunted off to find a planet that matched my mood. After jumping around for a bit, I discovered School, a very barren planet in the Brain system. I was very glad I am neither tall nor claustrophobic, as most of the planet is situated inside a cave system, occasionally with VERY low ceilings. Did I mention I'm limber as well? Tall beings may want to reconsider their travel plans.

I was starting to feel a bit like an out-of-practice schoolgirl as I wandered the planet, surrounded by students everywhere. I was a little bit disappointed to discover that the planet doesn't support any water features; how's a girl supposed to feel at home if there's no water? (I suppose if you're not from a water planet, it might help). I persisted, however, determined to find a nice bed to spend the night in.

I continued to wander, only to find that most of the school was closed for refurbishment. I was quite happy to not have to relive nightmares of math and science class, but had no problems finding the headmaster's office. Apparently you cannot escape your high school days with ease on this planet. At least I was let go without detention.

I was unable to find dorms to stay the night, so I wandered back to the rather quiet student bar for a drink, then headed on out to the landing pad. Oddly enough, my mood improved as I left the planet, so it served its purpose in spite of the barren landscape.

RATINGS:

Water feature: 0 Water doesn't exist on this planet except in very small quantities. Don't bring your swimsuit!
Bed: 0 No place to stay the night... but then again, why would you want to stay the night? The facilities are fine for a daytrip, but don't bother packing the overnight bag.
Style sense: 5 If you're looking for a Barbarella-like experience, this planet should do. Barren rock everywhere and claustrophobic caves; I found myself changing into the fur bikini I bought on Dryad just to fit in with the decor.
Social scene: 4 Students are usually pretty fun to hang out with, but these students are so dedicated to their studies that even the bar was pretty empty. I'd say bring the crew along to keep you company.
Shopping: 3 There is a shipyard right on the landing pad, so if you're ship shopping, you're in luck. However, if you're up for the more esoteric forms of shopping, you might want to look elsewhere. You can't have my fur bikini.

Well-written descriptions and a consistent theme make this an easy planet to explore. Just be sure to play some upbeat music to keep your spirits up - or go for the full wallowing-in-misery theme and crank up the emo tunes. Enjoy!

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