The Tarthian Tour Company asks, "Where do you want to wake up tomorrow?"
Location: Selestia Prime, Outer rim of the Tarthian Empire
Moons: Three small, rocky satellites
Suitability for Humans: Initially habitable, now abandoned
Primary Occupants: None, previously temporary settlers
Historical Significance: Early terraforming attempt failed
Notable Features: Wild energy fields
Drated
A Perfect But Abandoned World: Nestled on the edge of the galaxy, Drated once stood as a testament to the triumph of advanced terraforming techniques. Nearly a decade ago, the Terraformer's Circle of Fellowship (TCF) embarked on an ambitious project to cultivate a lush, vibrant ecosystem on this pristine planet. The resulting landscapes showcased verdant valleys, crystalline lakes, and sprawling forests, all imbued with a serene perfection that made Drated an alluring destination for colonists eager to stake their claim on a new home.
However, the remarkable beauty of Drated belies a dark and ominous past. Just two years after its grand unveiling, the planet was abruptly evacuated, leaving behind the echoes of unsettled lives and the haunting remnants of human ambition. The Imperial Armada, despite its authoritative presence in the Empire, retreated without explanation, dismantling its outposts and leaving Drated in eerie silence. This abrupt abandonment gave rise to disquieting rumors of mysterious deaths among the settlersβclaims that were swiftly dismissed by the Armada as fabrications.
Myths vs Narratives
Official narratives issued by the Ministry of Emigration barely scratched the surface of discontent and fear that gripped the remaining populace. Their statement, laden with bureaucratic jargon, insisted that while terraforming was technically complete, essential nutrients were tragically absent from the soil. The promise of a future where these deficiencies would be rectified did little to allay concerns.
The planet's destiny now hangs in limbo, swathed in uncertainty and speculation.
Intrigue surrounds Drated, as whispers of wild energy fields and supernatural occurrences mingle with scientific mumblings about environmental stability. Despite their insistence otherwise, the TCF has chosen silence over transparency, fueling conspiracy theories and igniting a fervent curiosity among thrill-seekers and historians alike. The absence of definitive answers has birthed a garden of conjecture, painting Drated not only as a reminder of humanity's hubris but also as a nexus of mysteryβa place where the perfect world meets the eerily abandoned ruins of its aspirations.
Gaining images of Drated is difficult. Nim, the Wandering Artist of the Tarthian Empire sent one photograph and relayed this message and image:
"Here is one of the pictures from Drated. Sorry it's late. Our ship was delayed by a blockade and every part of the ship searched. I was able to hide this pic but they got two others. My next mission should be less hazarβ"
end NETway transmission
Due to tradestandard regulations this is the only file you will receive. Please contact your party and have them resend the transmission.
NETway Systems - We bring you the stars
All Tradestandard waivers must be signed before the boarding area, for venturing onto this forsaken world invites more questions than conclusions. Visitors would do well to heed the warnings deemed necessary for entry: hazmat gear is required and visits are limited to no more than four consecutive hours in any 24-hour period.
In this desolate paradise, amidst the lingering scent of soil yet to fulfill its promise, one might discover the truth of Dratedβor find themselves ensnared in the ghosts of its past.
Any of my characters mentioned on this page may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Download a printable book list and check them off as you read.
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Tarthian Tour Company art by Jamin Allen and/or Kayelle Allen
Some artwork includes compilation imagery courtesy of Depositphotos, and/or Pixabay