What are we all here for? What is it about our creative interests, science fiction and the environment so familiar to us, thanks to decades of television shows and motion pictures, animated series and books, that has brought us together to pursue this adventure?

I don't doubt that the answers may be as varied as the players are themselves. But whether young or old,  we have here a template, created for us; a platform, with artificial gravity; and a technology that enables us to excuse the vast distances between stars, and allows us to make contact with any alien civilizations out there, not only within a human lifetime, but even traverse three light years distance in a day!

Who could fail to be impressed by such technology?

But if the template has technology for its platform, it is up to us to bring life to this environment with the people who would populate this world. The characters inhabiting the USS Thunderchild and the characters she encounters during her life, the situations they encounter and the choices they make, the right turns and the wrong turns, are what these dreams are made of.

Our universe by some reputable estimates is between 12 and 15 billion years old. And likely has many billions of years left before its run is complete. In the grand scheme of all things, what we do here may not be all that important, but if it is fun, and an enjoyment in our lives, this diversion may be its own reward.

The 'mission' of the USS Thunderchild is our 'mission'. Our mission is to put as much energy as we can into making this diversion from our real life responsibilities a compelling diversion; and an entertaining, demanding, and enjoyable one.

As the commanding officer of the USS Thunderchild, it is my mission to provide our crew with the environment to succeed in 'our mission' as stated above. For the short time that this corner of the universe is ours, we shall strive to make the most of it. This journey we're on...this is the Fun Zone.

Now, let the games begin.
 

Captain Sherdrick 'Ced' Gatewood
CO, USS THUNDERCHILD
STARFLEET: PRIME DIRECTIVE

Noah Rains, player