The Fesarians

Figure 1. The Fesarians

I got help from Gemini to develop some of the characters and plot elements for a new fan-fiction sequel (called "The Fesarians") to the old Star Trek episode "The Corbomite Maneuver". First, Gemini helped me devise the names for the characters Ienaghwy & Ylyndra and the planet Elemacha-z (that early part of the discussion is not included here). Below is the rest of my conversation with Gemini...

Me: "Gemini, imagine a sequel to "The Corbomite Maneuver" showing what happens next to Dave Bailey. Inside the mile-wide spaceship Fesarius, Bailey finds that there is a unique nomadic community that has formed from the hundreds of humanoid species that Balok has collected from the many galaxies that the Fesarius has previously visited. Inside the Fesarius, Bailey meets a telepathic Talosian named Ienaghwy and a member of the alien species from "The Squire of Gothos" who is named Ylyndra. 

Talia Vance; 8 of 10.

 Bailey is taken by Balok to the planet Elemacha-z where he must mediate between a group of human colonists and the natives of planet Elemacha-z. Gemini, let us discuss the nature of the conflict between the human colonists and the sentient natives of planet Elemacha-z. Gemini, let's imagine that the sentient natives who Bailey meets on Elemacha-z are amphibious creatures who spend most of their time in water."

Gemini [edited for brevity]: "Here are some possibilities for the conflict between the human colonists and the amphibious natives of Elemacha-z:

1) Resource Scarcity.   Water Rights: humans, being primarily land-dwelling, need a significant amount of freshwater. They might be unintentionally draining freshwater sources crucial to the amphibious natives, leading to tension.

2) Land Use. Humans require land for agriculture and settlements. This could encroach on the breeding grounds or migration routes of the amphibious species, creating conflict.

3) Disruption of Ecosystems. Humans might introduce invasive species that disrupt the delicate balance of the planet's ecosystem, causing harm to the native species.

Talia (center), one of her clones
sisters (left) and one of the Merovae.

 Dave Bailey's Role as Mediator. Finding Common Ground: Bailey's goal would be to find a solution that respects the rights and needs of both the humans and the native Elemachans. He might need to propose creative solutions, like establishing protected areas or creating sustainable resource management plans.

This is just a starting point, and you can add your own creative twists to further develop the plot. You can explore the motivations of the different characters, the specific challenges of communication, and the potential consequences of Bailey's actions."

Me: "Gemini, after meeting them on the Fesarius, Bailey thinks of Ienaghwy and Ylyndra as being Fesarians. Ienaghwy and Ylyndra do not get to join Bailey on the surface of Elemacha-z, but they remain in orbit and function as Bailey's helpers during his on-planet mission. 

Talia at the shore.

 Gemini, here is one additional plot element: Balok has an ulterior motive for bringing Baily to Elemacha-z. One of the human residents of Elemacha-z is a young human woman who Balok intends to take away from Elemacha-z and have reside onboard the Fesarius with Bailey. Gemini, suggest ten possible names for that woman."

Gemini: 

1. Amara. This name has a touch of grace and strength, suggesting a woman who can adapt to new situations.

2. Cora. This name means "maiden" or "heart" in Latin, hinting at a youthful spirit and compassion.

3. Elara. This name evokes a sense of a pioneer spirit, fitting for a woman living on a frontier planet.

4. Kaila. This name has Hawaiian origins and means "sea," which could resonate with the amphibious natives.

Talia sailing on ocean #5.

 5. Maya. This name has a connection to nature and illusion, which could be relevant given the presence of Balok and the Fesarians.

6. Rhea. This name is the name of a Titan in Greek mythology, suggesting a woman with strength and resilience.

7. Saira, This name has Arabic origins and means "princess" or "one who sees clearly," hinting at a woman with potential leadership qualities.

8. Talia. This name means "dew" in Hebrew, suggesting a fresh start and new beginnings for the woman on the Fesarius.

9. Xanthe. This name means "golden" or "yellow" in Greek, offering a unique and memorable option.

10. Zara. This name has Hebrew origins and means "princess" or "blooming," suggesting a woman poised for growth and change.

Me: "Gemini, let's use "Talia" as her first name. Gemini, invent a family name for Talia."

Gemini:

Here are a few family name options for Talia, considering the setting of the story...

Connected to Elemacha-z:

1) Talia Aquatis. "Aquatis" is a Latin root word meaning "water," which would directly connect Talia to the water-based environment of Elemacha-z.

2) Talia Maréa. "Maréa" is Spanish for "tide," another connection to the water and the planet's ecosystem.

Merovae. Image generated by Gemini

Reflecting Pioneering Spirit:

 3) Talia Shepard. "Shepard" evokes a sense of leadership and exploration, fitting for a colonist on a new world.

4) Talia Pathfinder. This name directly references the act of exploring and settling new frontiers.

Using Existing Surnames:

5) Talia Vance. A simple and common last name that grounds the character in a relatable way.

6) Talia Sharma. This name suggests a multicultural background, with "Sharma" being a common Indian surname.

Unique and Memorable Names:

7) Talia Kaimana. "Kaimana" is a Hawaiian name meaning "sea" and has a beautiful cadence.

8) Talia Lyra. "Lyra" is a constellation associated with music and harmony, which could foreshadow Talia's potential role as a bridge between cultures.

9. Talia Xylia. "Xylia" is a name not commonly used but has a connection to nature, potentially reflecting Talia's connection to her adopted planet.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on the specific tone and direction you want for Talia's character in your story.

cover art by Jasper Schreurs

{Note. As a fan of Jack Vance, I was delighted to see Gemini suggest "Vance" as the second name for Talia. I instantly decided that Jack Vance would be the ancestor of Talia Vance. I had Gemini estimate the number of generations between Jack Vance and her descendant Talia (answer: about 10 generations).}

Me: "Gemini, let's imagine that Baily meets a woman named Talia Vance on the planet Elemacha-z. Talia is the tenth generation descendant of science fiction story writer Jack Vance. Talia is one of the "power engineers" for the human colonists. She installs futuristic combined solar/wind power collectors on the mostly unforested hills surrounding the settled lands of the human colony on Elemacha-z. These solar/wind power collectors are damaging the native plant life that the sentient amphibious natives rely on for their survival."

Gemini: "This adds a fascinating layer of complexity to your story! Here are some ways this situation could unfold...

Conflict and Moral Dilemmas.

Talia with a Merovae

1. Talia's Dedication. Talia, being a descendant of Jack Vance, might possess a sense of adventure and a drive to push boundaries, similar to some of Vance's fictional heroes. She might be fiercely dedicated to her role as a power engineer, seeing it as crucial for the colony's survival.

2. Unintended Consequences. Talia is likely unaware of the ecological damage the power collectors are causing. When Bailey reveals the issue, she might initially be defensive, clinging to the belief that progress is necessary.

3) Internal Debate. As Talia interacts with Bailey and learns more about the amphibious natives, she might experience an internal conflict. Her desire to help the colony could clash with her growing understanding of the environmental impact.

Talia sitting on the beach.

  Bailey's Role as Mediator.

4. Empathy and Understanding. Bailey, having witnessed the plight of other species on the Fesarius, can empathize with the amphibious natives. He can help Talia see the issue from their perspective.

5. Seeking a Solution. Bailey can work with Talia to find an alternative energy solution. They might explore options like offshore wind farms or tidal energy that wouldn't harm the native plant life.

6. Negotiating with the Natives. Bailey, with Ienaghwy's telepathic help if possible, could facilitate communication with the amphibious natives. They can explain the situation and work towards a compromise.

Talia wears alien flowers.

 Possible Outcomes.

7. Technological Breakthrough. Talia, inspired by the situation, might come up with a technological innovation that combines solar and wind energy more efficiently, reducing the number of collectors needed and minimizing environmental impact.

8. Shifting Priorities. The colony might re-evaluate its energy needs, prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term gains. This could lead to a shift towards conservation efforts.

9. Cooperation with the Natives. Through Bailey's mediation, the humans might learn valuable information from the amphibious natives about their ecosystem. This could lead to a partnership where both species collaborate on sustainable energy solutions.

Solar & wind power collector.

Adding Layers.

10. Balok's Motive. Consider how Balok's ulterior motive to take Talia might be linked to the energy situation. Perhaps he needs her engineering skills for something on the Fesarius, or maybe he wants to use the conflict to manipulate the humans and natives.

 11. Hidden Secrets. There could be a hidden agenda within the human colony leadership, pushing for rapid energy production despite the ecological damage.

By exploring these possibilities, you can create a story with complex characters, environmental themes, and a thrilling adventure on a new planet."

Me: "Gemini, are you familiar with the Jack Vance novel "Trullion"?" 

Talia's clone sister, Gyulya,
and her tryp'At features.
see this Gene Szafran cover

Gemini: "Yes, I am familiar with the Jack Vance novel "Trullion" (1973). It's one of the three books set in the Alastor Cluster, a region of space within the larger Star Trek universe (though not officially part of Star Trek canon).

Here's what I know about "Trullion":

1. Setting. The story takes place on the water world Trullion, inhabited by the carefree Trill people. Their lives are disrupted by raids from the Starmenters, space pirates who live for adventure and plunder.

2. Plot. Glinnes Hulden, a returning veteran, finds his ancestral home caught up in a social movement. He encounters the beautiful Duissane and becomes entangled in a complex plot involving the Starmenters, a mysterious masked figure, and a possible power struggle.

 3. Themes. The novel explores themes of social change, environmental awareness, the nature of gambling and risk-taking, and the allure of adventure.

Do you have any specific questions about "Trullion" or how it might connect to your fan fiction story? Perhaps the carefree Trill society or the water world setting could inspire elements in your story on Elemacha-z."

image source

{Note: I was amused to see Gemini describe Jack Vance's literary creation, Alastor Cluster, as being "a region of space within the larger Star Trek universe". I suppose there is no way to prevent such AI hallucinations when they occur in the output of large language models. However, I love the idea of mixing together elements from the fictional Star Trek universe (particular the rich diversity of space aliens) with the sort of future for Humanity that Vance depicted in his Alastor Cluster novels. My fan fiction story "The Fesarians" is an exercise in this sort of cross-over fiction.}

Me: "Gemini, do you recall the native creatures of planet Trullion, the merlings?"

Power generators of Elemacha-z.

Gemini: "You're absolutely right! I apologize for the mistake in my previous response. "Trullion" does feature native creatures called merlings, but they are not exactly carefree. Here's what I recall about them:

1. Merlings. These are semi-intelligent, predatory creatures that inhabit the oceans of Trullion. They are described as being vaguely humanoid in shape, but with a more streamlined, aquatic body.

2. Threat to Humans. Merlings pose a danger to humans who venture into the water. They are known to attack and drag unsuspecting victims down to the depths.

Talia's vision of Elemacha-z.

 3. Limited Intelligence. While merlings exhibit some level of intelligence, they are primarily driven by instinct and a hunger for prey.

There are some interesting parallels you could draw between the merlings of Trullion and the amphibious natives of Elemacha-z in your fan fiction story:

4. Shared Aquatic Environment. Both species exist in close connection to water. While the merlings are fully aquatic predators, the amphibious natives of Elemacha-z might share a deep connection to the water even if they spend some time on land.

Talia

 5. Potential for Misunderstanding. Just like the merlings, the amphibious natives might be initially perceived as a threat by the human colonists due to a lack of understanding.

6. Conservation Concerns. Similar to the situation on Elemacha-z, the human presence could disrupt the ecosystem the merlings rely on in Trullion.

However, there are also key differences:

7. Intelligence Level. The amphibious natives seem to be much more intelligent than the merlings, potentially allowing for communication and cooperation.

 8. Symbiotic Relationship. Perhaps the amphibious natives have a symbiotic relationship with the native plant life that the solar/wind collectors threaten. This would create a more complex conflict than the predator-prey dynamic of the merlings.

By drawing inspiration from the merlings of Trullion while establishing clear distinctions, you can create a unique situation for the human colonists and the amphibious natives of Elemacha-z."

Me: "Gemini, let's imagine that the aquatic natives of Elemacha-z have some telepathic abilities. That is why Balok introduces Bailey to Ienaghwy and Ylyndra before Bailey is sent to the surface of Elemacha-z. Also, imagine that the natives creatures of Elemacha-z have been using their telepathic ability to interfere with the brain function of Talia Vance and trying to stop the installation of additional solar/wind power collectors. Gemini, invent ten possible names for the aquatic natives of Elemacha-z. Gemini, imagine that the name for the aquatic natives was invented by Talia who was influenced by both 1) the telepathic signals impinging on her brain from natives of the planet and 2) her knowledge of the story "Trullion" that was written by her ancestor, Jack Vance." 

Talia's other sister, Lyssa.

Gemini: 

1. Thalassar (Tha-LAH-sar). Combining "Thalassa" (Greek for "sea") and "assar" (possibly influenced by "Starmenters" from Trullion), this name evokes the aquatic nature and potential aggression of the natives.

2. Aquarion (Ah-KWAHR-ee-on). A direct reference to "aquatic," while the "-ion" ending hints at a collective intelligence or species.

3. Hydrana (Hi-DRAH-nah). This name references the mythological multi-headed Hydra, suggesting a complex and potentially dangerous species.

4. Xylophidians (Zi-loh-FEE-di-ans). A combination of "xylo" (Greek for "wood") and "ophidian" (related to snakes), referencing the plant life the natives depend on and their potential serpentine form.

Merovae.

 5. Synthesios (Sin-THEE-see-os). This name, meaning "combination" in Greek, hints at the telepathic connection between Talia and the natives.

6. Aethelfins (AY-thel-fins). Combining "Aethel" (Old English for "noble") with "fin," this name suggests a noble aquatic species.

7. Aquastra (Ah-KWAHS-trah). This name combines "aqua" (Latin for "water") and "astra" (Greek for "star"), suggesting a connection to the celestial and aquatic realms.

8. Tridenti (Tri-DEN-ti). Referencing the trident, a weapon associated with the sea god Neptune, this name hints at the aquatic nature and potential power of the natives.

Gyulya's "floating" house.
Another of Talia's visions.

 9. Thalassai (Tha-LAH-sigh). The plural form of "Thalassar," suggesting a community of aquatic beings.

10. Merovae (Meh-ROH-vay). A combination of "mer" (referencing mermaids) and "Vance" (Talia's ancestor), creating a unique name influenced by both the story and the natives themselves.

Me: "Gemini, let us adopt "Merovae" as the name that Talia uses to refer to the aquatic natives of Elemacha-z. Gemini, if you were Balok, how would you deliver Bailey to the human colony on Elemacha-z? We can't just have Balok teleport Bailey down to the planet's surface unannounced."

Gemini: "As Balok, here are a few creative ways I could deliver Bailey to the human colony on Elemacha-z without simply teleporting him down unannounced:

A Staged Encounter:

Figure 2. Version #1 of this scene.
Bailey, Talia and a Merovae
generated by WOMBO Dream

 1. Engineered Distress Signal. The Fesarius could send out a distress signal mimicking a malfunctioning human vessel. The colonists, eager to help, might send a rescue team that encounters Bailey on their approach. This allows Bailey to establish initial trust with the humans before revealing his true situation.

2. Fabricated Crash Landing. The Fesarius could stage a crash landing on Elemacha-z, far enough from the colony to avoid immediate suspicion. Bailey could then make his way to the colony, claiming to be the sole survivor. This could create initial tension but also provide Bailey with an opportunity to learn about the colony before revealing his true purpose.

Manipulation and Deception:

3. Memory Implant. Balok could implant false memories into Bailey's mind, convincing him he's a long-lost member of the colony or a scientist arriving for a pre-arranged visit. This allows Bailey to infiltrate the colony seamlessly but raises ethical concerns and potential distrust when the truth is revealed.

Gyulya's morning swim.

 4. Mind-Controlled Colonist. Balok could temporarily mind-control a colonist, making them bring Bailey to the colony under the pretense of him being a visitor or new recruit. This could be risky, as the mind control might be detected, and Bailey would still have to navigate the situation without the colonists' full trust.

Combining Forces:

5. Feigning Assistance. The Fesarius could arrive posing as a technologically advanced vessel assisting with a problem the colony is facing, like a malfunctioning power grid. Bailey would be presented as an engineer on a mission to help. This creates a sense of cooperation but could lead to suspicion if the Fesarius' technology seems too advanced.

 

Figure 3. Version #2 of this scene.
generated by WOMBO Dream

6. Ienaghwy and Ylyndra as Pawns. Balok could allow Ienaghwy and Ylyndra to project a telepathic message to the colony, requesting assistance with a fabricated problem on the Fesarius. This could involve a fake injury to Bailey, making his arrival a rescue mission. However, Ienaghwy and Ylyndra might resist being used in this way.

Ultimately, the chosen method of delivery would depend on Balok's ultimate goal for Bailey on Elemacha-z and the level of control he wants to exert over the situation. Remember, Balok desires Talia, so the chosen method should also facilitate her acquisition"

Me: "Gemini, imagine that the colonist on Elemacha-z have previously reported to Earth that their electrical power engineers have all developed a strange type of mental illness. Balok tells Baily to pretend to have been sent by Star Fleet to help deal with the electrical power problem on Elemacha-z. Under these conditions, Balok has a small module of the Fesarius appear above Elemacha-z, pretending to be a Star Fleet scout ship."

Gyulya meets a juvenile Merovae.

Gemini: "This is a clever twist! Here's how Balok could deliver Bailey to Elemacha-z while keeping his true motives hidden:

The Staged Arrival.

1. Fesarius as a Scout Ship. Balok disguises the Fesarius to appear like a standard Starfleet scout ship. He might even use cloaking technology to remain partially hidden until close to the colony.

2. Distress Signal. The Fesarius broadcasts a pre-recorded distress signal mimicking a Starfleet vessel responding to the colonists' call for help with the engineers' "mental illness" and electrical problems.

Figure 3. Version #3 of this scene.
generated by WOMBO Dream

 3. Bailey's Fake Credentials. Balok provides Bailey with fabricated Starfleet credentials and a convincing backstory. Bailey could be a specialist in "psycho-engineering" sent to assess the engineers and recommend treatments, or perhaps an electrical engineer with expertise in resolving unusual power grid issues.

Landing and Deception.

4. Controlled Landing. Balok maneuvers the Fesarius for a controlled landing some distance from the human colony. This could be explained as a safety precaution due to the "unstable" situation.

5. Shuttle Craft Arrival. A disguised shuttle craft separates from the Fesarius and lands near the colony entrance. This creates a more familiar and approachable arrival than a large starship.

6. Bailey's Introduction. Bailey disembarks the shuttle craft, projecting a confident and helpful demeanor. He uses his fake credentials and pre-briefed information to explain his mission and gain entry to the colony.

Potential Challenges.

7. Scrutiny of Credentials. The colonists might be wary or skeptical, considering their previous reports of "mentally ill" engineers. Bailey might face scrutiny of his credentials and require quick thinking to establish his legitimacy.

8. Medical Examinations. There's a chance the colonists might conduct medical examinations to assess the engineers' mental state. Here, Balok could provide Bailey with some form of technology or telepathic shielding to mask any potential anomalies.

Figure 5. Version #4 of this scene
Bailey in a viewing bubble!
generated by WOMBO Dream

 9. Unearthing the Truth. If the colonists are particularly observant or possess advanced technology, they might notice inconsistencies in the Fesarius' design or Bailey's background. Bailey would need to be prepared to improvise or deflect suspicion.

Benefits for Balok:

10. Gaining Trust. This approach allows Bailey to infiltrate the colony with a degree of trust, as he's posing as a Starfleet representative sent to help. This facilitates his interaction with Talia and potentially makes it easier to acquire her.

11. Maintaining Control. Balok remains somewhat hidden behind the facade of a Starfleet vessel, allowing him to observe the situation and intervene if necessary. He can keep Bailey on a leash through telepathic communication or hidden technology.

Overall, this staged arrival offers Balok a calculated way to infiltrate the human colony and position Bailey for success (or at least, success from Balok's perspective).  However, the potential for suspicion and unforeseen challenges adds intrigue to the story."

____end of the discussion with Gemini_____

Ylyndra, Ienaghwy and Talia (right).

I've been experimenting with possible "looks" for the aquatic aliens of Elemacha-z (the Merovae; see Figures 2-5, above). I'm still not sure exactly how I want these aliens to appear. I'm going to assume that Balok has feathers, as was the original intention for that character. In Figure 1, the image at the top of this page, there are two types of aliens. I'm going to assume that the aliens who appeared in "The Squire of Gothos" were the descendants of the "extinct" aliens from the planet Exo III in "What Are Little Girls Made Of?" and they had blue skin. The aliens with pale-skin in Figure 1 are human-Talosian hybrids. The image to the right depicts Talia, Ylyndra (blue) and Ienaghwy the Talosian at the end of Bailey's mission to Elemacha at the time when Talia is brought onboard the Fesarius.

Continue to: Part 1 of "The Fesarians". Bailey meets the Fesarians.

Next: a time travel interlude.

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