Building Chakona (page 2)
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Mayor Raindance addresses and fields the concerns of residents of the Azure Beach neighborhood. Along with alderpersons, this method of interacting with local council helps ensure that quality of life concerns get taken care of in an effective manner. The Mayor's office can add executive initiatives to supplement Council activities, legislation and grants.
Chakat Cornfield takes a moment to pose for some bloke with a camera. Luckily shi isn't too busy at the moment and is leisurely keeping the peace. Mostly shi uses hir COMM unit and PADD, though shi does carry a standard issue phaser, and not standard is an old fashioned revolver, neither having been discharged in hir 16 years of service (and thankfully counting!) but shi has found that the cock of a firearm stops teenagers in their tracks better than the nigh-silent hum of a charging phaser. |
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Sunflare, Prime Minister of Chakona, pauses for a picture in a hallway at the Capitol. Shi has recently started hir third term as the top authority on Chakona, re-elected with a large majority. While several of the world's past prime ministers have enjoyed great popularity, Sunflare's commonsense approach to matters coupled with a good relationship with most of the other district representatives has seen hir time in office as being particularly productive.
Thiokonen is a Polari Stellar Foxtaur, and shi is the mayor of Knightsport, the capital of New Belarus province on Chakona. This is the northernmost of the continents, and certainly much more recently developed. Thiokonen is in hir first term as mayor in this up-and-coming city. The ultramodern City Hall is set back on a slight incline, with Civic Square at a higher elevation. This area is subject to snow, so the curved roof edge helps channel water and ice off of it. An extensive green roof helps save energy in the winter months. In the background are some of the taller buildings in Knightsport; they offer a spectacular view of the coastal plains. |
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Chakat Gionni Brightheart is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter. Shi was won acclaim for hir songs of love, with pleasing melodies that get a lot of 'airplay' on satellite radio on Chakona. Here she is at a live performance at Esperanta's Kiva Centre.
At right, M'Lartinnasern, a Caitian constituent of the city of Adele, speaks up at a local council meeting, with the support of her Companion, Chakat Summerhay. In this meeting there are a few local issues. This citizen is requesting more attention to licensing as a couple shady stores have popped up in her neighborhood. The council chambers are designed with polished stone so that they will last for centuries. On the back wall are friezes emblematic of government, largely depicting taurs. |
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At left, Haim Hennesee and Chakat Sunnyshore perform the Chakonan ballet movement "Lightsong and Hava's Lament," at the Dewclaw University Performing Arts Centre. Chakona is certainly full of artists, and there are numerous opportunities for one to allow their talents to shine, or to be exhibited publicly.
At right is Chakat Northernhawk of Tycho, Galilei, a world-renowned sculptor. Here shi is working on a life-sized statue of a foxtaur for the Guiseppe Memory Garden. Many of hir commissions have been for public art such as at stadiums, schools and transport facilities. In this commission, shi is carving a block of flagstone to make the figure. The portable skid is used to transfer the completed piece to a truck so that it can be properly installed. |
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At left is Chakat Gala Firestream, the premier of Galilei Province. Shi is a biologist by trade.
Some Chakonan companies have a vision for Chakona becoming a major power in starship construction. To that end, the Veritas Skylark Group is formed as a consortium of aerospace, mining and materials companies that currently produce numerous elements for starships such as fueling systems, replicators and spaceflight computers. From left to right, Diana Verendrye, Chair of the Board, Chakat Dawn Star Vanguard, Chief Executive Officer, and Chakat Sunbeam Tryon, Chief Operating Officer. |
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Character © Chakat Azimuth. See Fur Affinity. |
Iactlakamehani (Deebs to hys friends) is an astral projector who combines hys psychic skills with engineering, diving and deep-sea training. As part of a skunktaur triad team, hy inspects marine structures artificial or natural, stationary or mobile, without most of the traditional overhead, prep time or hazards. This makes hys team very successful financially. Hys birth name is a combination of syllables from Terran Aztec and Hawai'ian mythology, including a sea goddess.
As a projector, Deebs has a highly trained memory and can recite several thousand numerical characters after a short period. Deebs is likewise trained in concentration under any circumstances, and can meditate or sleep well during a storm at sea. The joke goes that if Deebs wakes up, it's time to get to port. Hy has earned multiple degrees and is usually pursuing further education, as hys profession both exposes hym to new fields and leaves him with free time while at sea. Hys special talent, however, is a faculty for psychic links and for exploiting Talents that aren't hys own. Deebs can utilize the Talents of his team like a natural, and combines them on the job on a regular basis. The downside is that hys team members can feel underutilized and end up seeking more fulfilling employment. Being devoted to meditation and projection has made Deebs a bit "comfier" (fatter) than most skunktaurs, which is a social taboo. A very active species, Skunktaurs tend to have muscle and almost no fat, but no amount of exercise (and hy exercises every day) can make up for Deebs' periods of physical inactivity. As far as hys job goes, though, the weight can help; it gives hym more buoyancy and thus more swimming capacity than the average skunktaur. Deebs is pictured soon after a change back to hys male phase; having burned off a lot of energy during the shift, hy looks slim, especially with hys trim coat. If hy has a true passion, it is for seeing sights and interacting with flora and fauna while projecting. As a result, hy ignores hys physical needs until they become overwhelming, and then has to blow off some serious steam in port, along with a few kilos of weight from shifting and sex. |
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Windridge, seen at left, is one of the more prominent movie stars on Chakona, generally appearing in comedy films. Shi may take a serious role every now and then, however. Shi's highly sought after as voice talent as well.
At right, Federal MP (Member of Parliament) Niobh'Hain Rytan has a hallway discussion with MPP (Member of Provincial Parliament) Hurrat'tra'keih Bar'ha'seri. These two officials frequently collaborate on projects of interest to the Caitian-founded township Haarn'tuk'harr and its environs. The growing population will certainly require additional infrastructure to help development proceed in a sustainable manner. |
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Miao-Jing Lai is a descendent of Chinese immigrants from Earth, and her family has settled in Tallawang for 50 years. Miao-Jing has been mayor for the past five. Her tenure has seen a steady increase in population and prosperity as more people come to Tallawang to experience its beauty. Challenges will certainly be ahead as she and other officials strive to balance Tallawang's small-town feel with the higher profile. Fortunately, they are aided by the sustainable development principles of Chakona. |
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Chakonan culture does not have a standard for weddings, and there is also not a standard ideal of marriage. Relationships run the gamut of monogamy to extended families, and the unification ceremonies vary even more. Here, this couple has decided on a quasi-traditional approach. They have a group of friends and a celebrant to officiate and witness their vows.
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Remembrance Day is a Chakonan holiday meant to honour those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in service to Chakona or the Federation. It is always held on Day 6 of the 21st week and is a public holiday. Community is a very important value on Chakona, and one way Chakonans celebrate it is with group activities such as this Remembrance Day holiday. Block parties like this are held all over Chakona. A few veterans and active duty CDF members are in the group in this neighborhood in Ghenna, Nova Belarus. They've all brought big appetites and those appetites will be sated by plenty of food and drink.
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Longtail Day, the 1st day of the 40th week, is the day Chakonans use to honour their elders. The name of the day comes from the Chakat colloquialism for their senior citizens, "longtails", so named because a Chakat's tail lengthens throughout hir life. These celebrations are also a great opportunity for gatherings where the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren listen to great stories from their elders. While it's possible to record just about anything digitally, nothing beats good old oral history. Here, Chakat Elmglen of tells some family history to the newest generations of hir family. Elmglen has been present for the births of all of the children here, and has seen many more in hir 122 years of life.
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Police respond to a hate-motivated attack on a family of humans in Eucla City. At least four individuals are going to have a long stay in pre-trial detention as police have managed to disperse the crowd of gawkers. Now they are penning the holdouts out of reach of their badly injured prey. This group accosted and then battered the humans in an attack meant to scare them from the neighborhood. A Caitian passerby helps the paramedics tend to the very badly wounded and mauled humans. Seconds will count in this case as the eldest and youngest of the group have suffered grave injuries. This particular attack was perpetrated by a group of chakats and morphs who themselves were victims of hatred and bigotry by humans back on Earth, and had come to Chakona to escape that, only to find humans also making a home in what they thought would be a refuge from them. There will be various counselors visiting the community in order to ease tensions. Inter-specific tensions will never be completely removed, but there are great pains taken to help make these events rarer as time passes.
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Many people still work regular shifts, and in families where all adults work, there's a need for creches. They are conveniently located, usually in business districts where parents may drop off children whilst they work. In order to help promote family stability and encourage the safety of the children, daycare is subsidised so as to reflect low out-of-pocket cost to the parents. In this way, unsupervised children are not as much of an issue. The children win by having safe environments to play with other children.
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Many immigrants from Earth have brought along their own cultural traditions to Chakona, such as the customs surrounding Christmas. On Chakona is primarily associated with Christian immigrants. One of the common activities where many Christians gather is door-to-door caroling. While many Christmas traditions are folded into Year's End (the 386th day of the year), many Christians elect to celebrate Christmas a few days earlier, at about the approximate position the day would fall on the Chakonan calendar.
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Berdoovia is the second biggest city on Flinders Continent, but while it is a successful settlement in its own right, it's best known for being the location of the premier educational institute – Dewclaw University. While Dewclaw has some external campuses, the majority of the facilities are located on the one sprawling location on the south-western edge of Berdoovia's suburbs.
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At left is a view of Luck Pond, which fronts onto the Student Center, with the Space Sciences building to the left, and Social Sciences building to the right.
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Not far from the Student Center is the Physics Complex, as seen at left.
Not only does the university have medical facilities to take care of the needs of its students, but it also has a full teaching hospital. At right we see a group of medical students being lectured on the condition of the patient seen on the other side of the glass wall. |
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Dewclaw boasts a library that is second to none. While the vast majority of information is available digitally, and the library is a repository for all that knowledge which the students can access in various ways, it also has a large collection of paper books, art reproductions, and items of great historical value. Dewclaw's computers serve as back-ups for data-centres all over Chakona. It also has processing power to spare for resource-intensive projects, and multiple redundant systems. This means that despite further accomplishments in miniaturisation, the computer complex at the library is very large. |
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Because Dewclaw attracts students from all over Chakona, the dormitory complexes cater for a vast array of species and needs. Rooms are available for singles, doubles, and trios, and with shared or private sleeping quarters. They also cater to those who are prepared to pay a bit more for extras. However, the room seen at left is a very basic one with little more than beds and study centres. They even have to use communal bathing facilities. However, while their level of comfort in the dormitories may vary considerably, the standard of education that they receive is equal to any other.
The university is so big and complex that it qualifies as a small township in its own right. As such, it not only has regular bus routes converging on it, but also its own train station. Students who live in Berdoovia or its suburbs can guarantee to get home in time for supper on this reliable public transport. |
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In a liberal arts classroom, Chakat Merry Thornton conducts a class on literature analysis. In this course, students will construct their own custom narratives and have them reviewed by others. Like many environments on Chakona, this classroom is quite diverse.
The Dewclaw University Law School in Berdoovia is located in the city centre within a stone's throw of the provincial and municipal courthouses. Here, law students become trained in the ways of the law, and depending on specialty, the quirks of the law relevant to that specialty. As a self-contained school, it has its own chancellor and confers degrees. Some students here will go on to become defence attorneys, others prosecutors, and still others will learn how to become judges. An attention to detail, stellar writing and communication ability, and a rock-solid understanding of the constitution(s) and legal framework are necessary to make it at this school. The building itself is a self-contained campus, allowing all major and prerequisite classes to be held here. Four storeys of the complex are above grade with another four below. The building contains several classrooms and lecture halls, as well as mock courtrooms and a massive legal library. The laws themselves can be accessed anywhere with a PADD device. Even though the school is a part of the university, it has its own campus, therefore marking it as an extension college. |
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The Dewclaw University Medical School is the main medical school of Chakona. People from all over travel here to learn medicine, and any and all medical operations. At the left in this picture is Bluekestrel Hall, where numerous classrooms and many of the Emergency Medicine faculty's offices are contained. Immediately neighbouring is the circular Stansted Pavilion, where Pediatric Medicine faculty and classrooms are found. In the very background is one wing of the Dewclaw University Hospital, a major trauma centre and teaching hospital. The hospital serves not only the Dewclaw community but greater Berdoovia as well.
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While there is only one university on Chakona, there are numerous disciplines that do not require a university degree. To that end, most regional centres have one or more colleges that are actually trade schools. At a college, you can learn a practical discipline and skilled trade, such as plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, computer tech, agricultural work or maintenance. In this classroom at Silver Lake College in Silver Lake, Didwana, students get hands on training in working with wiring. This exercise involves rewiring standard residential mains wire, and only connection of the switch ends. Later labs will involve demonstration of safety equipment and operation of systems in a mock-up construction project. These students will go on to become the electricians that service the booming construction industry in Chakona. Silver Lake College is a building with a complex shape; all of the classrooms and offices surround a seven-storey atrium chock-full of plants and vegetation. Natural sunlight filters into every classroom.
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Flinders Continent is blessed with a huge body of freshwater called Silvergleam Lake. Nestled in a the bowl formed by the caldera of a long-extinct super-volcano, Silvergleam stetches for hundreds of kilometres at its longest, and is fed by streams that flow from the bowl formed by the low mountains, with the sole exit being Silvergleam Falls at its northern end. These falls are 418 metres high, and this natural reservoir has been utilised for not only a water supply for a large part of the continent, but also hydro-electric power generation, taking advantage of the enormous head of pressure developed from that height. |
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The facilities are constantly being upgraded to meet the growing needs of the continent.
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At left, Flinders Hydro maintenance workers get ready to insert a RIV (Remote Inspection Vehicle) into the conduit between Silvergleam and Wanganui. As an alternative to high-tension tower pylons, which are quite unsightly, high voltage power transmission can still be achieved via standardised conduits. The conduit sections are tunneled or at least buried in trenches throughout the route, at such an angle that they can be remotely inspected and repaired. The RIV carries inspection tools that ply the high-voltage conductors and check for defects in both the conductors and the conduit lining. Onboard tools for this railed vehicle include spark welding equipment, potentiometers, and telemetry that help pinpoint whether major work has to be done. This inspection entry point also includes a pumping station for the Silvergleam-Wanganui aqueduct, and a small restroom for workers. The inspection vehicle's mother truck is plugged into a recharging station for the ride back to the depot.
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One place that you might visit while on Chakona is the Skunktaur Archipelago, and its capital city, New Bletchley. At left is the administrative building, the seat of government for the province. Unlike the other government buildings, this building was constructed of prefabricated segments, placed together entirely by use of telekinesis. This gives the structure a special cultural meaning. In front, people travel through or relax in Founders' Plaza, which includes lush vegetation and water features.
New Bletchley is one of the more northern cities, and is nestled in mountain ranges at a fairly high altitude. Snow during the winter is quite normal, so come rugged up! At right we see works crews busy plying the streets with snowploughs so that PTVs and all other vehicles can still safely travel. There are mini-snowploughs for sidewalks. Due to the negative effects of road salt on the environment (not to mention the lasting, expensive damage to pavements), the snow is cleared as much as possible and sand is layered over top. The sand, as long as it's appropriate to the area, can be brushed or incorporated into the paving materials when it's time for maintenance. While much of the Skunktaur Archipelago has a mild climate, the higher latitude places are a lot colder, and many areas prone to snow during the height of winter, so roofs are generally sloped here. Even the apartment block in the background has a sloped roof. Passive and active solar arrays are still found on buildings to capture the sunlight and lower energy costs. In the winter, an atrium-like roof, properly insulated, can be worth its weight in gold for keeping you warm. |
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Maybe architecture is your thing? The Bonifacio Provincial Building seen at left is the tallest structure in Eucla City. Meant to evoke capitol buildings found throughout the former United States, the building features a rooftop terrace and a spacious dome. A plaza in front contains water features and the like. The sculpture at the top of the dome is of a taur holding a star torch, tail high. Much like in other Chakonan cities, rooftop vegetation is common.
The main fire station for the city of Haliaeetus on Bosporus Continent has a more of a classical style, but using local pink terra cotta for the exterior. Solar panels and a green roof augment the features on it. The fire brigade headquarters are on the upper two floors while the active station is on the ground floor for quick response. A 'hose tower,' a throwback to ancient days of firefighting, actually conceals a lift to take officials and workers upstairs quickly. Since this is a busy central city station, all the bays are filled with firefighting appliances. There are two pumps, an aerial, a rescue squad and a chief's command vehicle. |
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How about magnificent scenery? At left, Chakat Azimuth stands outside of hir home town of Tallawang on Galilei Continent. Located southeast of Port Kepler, this picturesque town lies in the heart of the highest mountain ranges on Chakona, and even in the summer, cold winds blow through here quite regularly. The mountains have a Spanish name, the Narraba, poetically, "Telling a Story".
The Town Hall of Tallawang reflects the recent growth of the town as a popular destination for tourists and residents alike, drawn to the beauty of the scenic Narraba Range. This building contains all of the municipal administrative offices, as well as regional service centres for Galilei Province. The structure, like many buildings in and around Tallawang, is constructed of local materials except for the structural steel. The special roof simulates old-style Earth mansard architecture, and allows heavy snow to be shed from the roof. Heating elements can be turned on in the roof in order to capture water for use in toilets and other appliances. Tallawang's town square, directly west of the town hall, contains a community flower garden and a small floral clock. It is an often photographed spot for visitors. |
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Tallawang's High Street is the central street for commerce for the town. The transport terminal at right in the image is designed for expansion next to a grassy right-of-way for when maglev service reaches the town. Shops and boutiques line the street, with apartments and offices on upper storeys. Some of the buildings have extensive underground levels that accomodate further residents and offices. Currently, bus rapid transit exists, but there are plans in the works for a tram that goes through the town and connects it to the airport. In the background, a storm forms atop Mount Karres and Puncheon Peak, 6600 and 6400 metres tall respectively.
The small town of Tallawang has a huge temporary increase of population in the winter, when it's time for winter sports. The transportation network must be very flexible and have high capacity to move those tourists around. Here the local tram, connecting the airport, the town centre, and the resort area is under construction, whilst the Tallawang Bus Rapid Transit coasts by on a trip towards the airport. In the background, a funicular railway climbs to a ski resort's upper levels. |
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Different terrains call for different building styles. In Tallawang, Galilei, the home of Chakat Blackspots is a split level structure with a green roof, nestled in the steep foothills of the Narraba range just outside the built-up area of Tallawang. Local stone, largely terra cotta, is used to face the durable exterior in an ashlar treatment. The property features a cathedral ceiling in the den, a loft bedroom plus guest room, two baths, and a full kitchen. Adhering to the usual principles of green buildings, it nevertheless has to allow for the different climate, including snow in the winter months.
Tallawang features a variety of architecture suited to the high altitude, cool climate. Almost every building has a peaked roof. A-frame structures are an especially common solution for the winter. In this picture, a resident tends to the shrubbery along the rock wall. Shrubbery and ferns in this location are well-suited to the cool climate. |
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The courtyard of the Spirit Centre in Tallawang is a great location for people to sit and reflect. The complex contains a few enclosed courtyards, and several galleries. Various paths for spirituality are explored within these walls. Tallawang has a large community of immigrants from Earth, and they bring many Earth philosophical and spiritual traditions.
A resident of rural Galilei gets some small-scale agriculture going in a backyard plot. He was able to create backyard garden boxes using scavenged and recycled lumber, creating an attractive garden plot. Bees nearby will help to pollinate the plants in the area. |
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At left, morning commuters and travelers begin to cross Cahill Street to enter the Riverina Railway Terminal. Riverina is the capital of Pacifis province. This massive station, complete with an atrium-topped great hall, is one of the termini for the Flinders-Pacifis UHS (Ultra High Speed) maglev service, where one can take rapid trains to Amistad, Berdoovia, Eyre or Wanganui. Local and commuter service exists to other points on the island, and there is provision for further maglev service expansion to other cities on Pacifis. The frieze on the cornice of the great hall represents various aspects of the construction of the maglev and some about its operation. The terminal is served by the usual sorts of transit options – there's a tram (not pictured) as well as bus (via Riverina Transit) and PPTV service.
In the view at right, two Pacifis Interail passenger trains load passengers as a UHS maglev service leaves for Amistad via the Chainlink. The standard trains at the right are propelled by a conductor rail attached to the slab track and reach speeds of around 200 km/h. Maglev service of over 700km/h is augmented with an onboard fusion generator that operates the magnetic propulsion and head end power. Light wells funnel natural light down to the platform level. Above this terminal are office buildings that share the lightwells, each of the wells capped with a set of skylights. |
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One of the sailors at the Eucla Lifesaving Station observes as a tropical cyclone makes landfall. Packing windspeeds that will begin to approach 120 km/h, the storm is sure to cause some damage, but structures in this region are built to withstand cyclones. Settlement is done at higher elevations so that the storm surge this storm is driving inland will not cause too much damage to property. As a marker of the storm surge, which is inundating the base of the flagpole, the normal shoreline is about 40-50 metres further out than shown in this picture.
Not strictly on Chakona, but of integral importance to it, is Chakona Gateway Station, also known as the Warp Gate. In geosynchronous orbit above Chakona, it is the first stop of all interstellar traffic, controlling both commercial and passenger starships entering and leaving Chakona's sphere of control. As busy as any of the gateway stations of the founding planets, it caters to every need of the traveller, as well as being home to the Chakonan Defence Force. |
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At left is the Evening Star Restaurant in Silver Lake. Here, casual dining can be acquired for a medium price. Stylish, "mod" decor helps convey a pleasant atmosphere. In this particular design, booths are well-elevated above the aisles, allowing servers plenty of leeway in bringing items to the table. In addition this allows the server to make direct, level eye contact with the seated customers.
The picture at right shows part of the hamlet of East Fedders, an area of rolling hills that also hosts good farmland. Most of the people in this community have agricultural-relevant professions. Green roofs are also popular here in order to save on energy. In addition, drainage is frequently captured and recycled in order to minimize potential pollutants that occur from agriculture. Many driveway pavements are constructed of field-fabricated pavers (field stone with some soil interwoven in) - this does result in a bit of a bumpy ride but it's more cohesive and much more durable than a gravel road. Cobblestone from building sites can also be used as a paving material. |
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A Department of Environment expedition led by Chakat Greyglen, seen at left, documents the vicinity of River 4W on the continent of Bosporus. Chakona is still very much a frontier world, and numerous places are unexplored. While the entire planet was photographed by satellite technology to scope out ideal locations for cities, much is unknown about the resources available on the planet. There is much information to gather; new species of flora and fauna, new features to discover, perhaps even new resources. The expeditions consist of scientists of diverse disciplines as well as two support members that help protect the team and the environment in turn. Each team generally consists of at least one botanist, zoologist, and geologist. The expedition leader normally has a background in geography and will often have an assistant whose role is to enter the data that all of the scientists find onto the map. Many of the team carry specialised instruments to measure conditions where they travel. Expeditions may last for many months at a time, therefore it is important that the support members convey survival techniques such as food preparation. The benefits of modern technology do allow the explorers to be in contact with the developed world at all times, so if things get way too sticky, help can be brought in or members in trouble can be removed from the situation. Chakats are an ideal exploring species, but in this case Greyglen also has the benefit of a couple of Stellar Foxtaurs on hir team who are in their ideal element.
At right, a storm kicks up in the high latitudes as a Department of Environment expedition raises the tent to hunker down for the night...and maybe the next day. Blizzard conditions are getting ready to hit the group, who are out in the open. Fortunately all their devices and locators are protected from the fierce elements. The expedition mission is a study of the thickness of glacial ice, and what, if any, fauna exists in this extreme climate. Some of the all-Polari Stellar Foxtaur team are raising the tent while other members are kicking up snowbanks that will help deflect wind and protect the tent from blowing away. Once the weather clears up, the group will be able to move on. Fortunately there's plenty of food, and once the tent is up, plenty of warmth from the teammates. |
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New New York is a prominent city in the northern part of Bonifacio. It has numerous examples of traditional New York (Earth) architecture, though smaller in scale. While New New York will never have the narrow streets and congestion of its namesake, it will still be a lovely and vibrant place to live. The city features an airport and rapid transit just like its namesake, though with a fraction of its population. Wide sidewalks and ample greenery help encourage pedestrian activity like in other Chakona cities. With skyscrapers being banned on Chakona, buildings have many storeys built underground in the same manner as other cities. For example, the bank buildings to the right have eight storeys below grade. In order to avoid the "concrete canyon" effect, many of the buildings have terraces that set back upper, above grade storeys. This allows more opportunity for scenic balconies and green roofs.
At right, a Stellar Foxtaur mother and daughter relax alongside a pond in New New York's Glade Park. Much like the other parks in the city, it's built to include elements designed by ancient Earth designer Frederick Law Olmsted. While very tall structures are not generally allowed on Chakona, there are some exceptions. For example: telecommunications in cities with a flat elevation. Because of the complex geometry and attenuation that results from buildings, certain signals like cellular signals can be elevated significantly above the skyline. However, a normal functional telecom tower is generally unsightly. The local council here has instead created a telecom tower that is not only functional but is a piece of cultural sculpture. The 170-metre tall New New York Observation Tower is designed to evoke the old Empire State Building on Earth. Inside the spire are numerous cellular antennas that help facilitate communication. A transciever for the transportation system, weather station and satellite reception are also included in the building. The uppermost storeys of the building contain a gigantic observation deck, complete with outdoor terrace, shops and tourist trap attractions. The rest of the building down to just above street level is chock-full of telecommunication equipment. Other space in this highly technical-oriented building includes server farms and the BonifacioBroadcasting-NNY television studio. Transparent aluminium lifts have views of the surroundings as they whisk visitors up to the intermediate level where the attractions begin. Accordingly, the building is actually 10 storeys tall, but each storey is massively elongated such to fit the equipment or attractions. |
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The Lovers' Lane Park in Tycho, Galilei is a popular gathering place for residents of the city. It's a peaceful park just about visually isolated from the city, the gentle headlands of the continent rising in the background.
Harrn'tuk'harr township is a Caitian settlement located on the northern coast of Flinders Continent. The tropical savanna climate means many fewer trees, so tree planting is encouraged where possible. Houses are roomy and designed with shutters to allow as many breezes as possible through. Otherwise, there are the usual Chakonan design principles in mind. In the background is the domed temple to the Caitian Goddess. This community was not established as a normal colony but specifically for Caitians who wanted to create a new society that was not bound by the old traditions. The translation of the town’s name means Golden Destiny, and there you will find Caitians openly in lesbian and homosexual relationships, monogamous matings, and inter-species relationships, all without the negative social repercussions of their home world. The community is still relatively young and feeling its way socially, but new traditions are slowly being established, especially some needed to deal with the fact that they still breed females disproportionately. This community alone accounts for a huge proportion of the Terran-alien hybrids in the Federation. |
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Two chakats enjoy a midday picnic in New Auckland's Bramble Park. The park is situated on a large outcrop of a hill in the city centre. In the background, the Aotearoa Provincial Legislature 'dominates' the skyline with its domed clock tower and orange barrel roofs. Luxury condominiums and offices line the scenic waterfront.
At right, a Knightsport Metro train arrives at Gaffney Station, before it continues on to the Knightsport Regional Airport. The Metro was established due to rapid growth of the city and suburbs. Like the Amistad Metro, the Knightsport system is underground in the city centre and contained within elevated covered embankments or cuttings elsewhere. The lines are therefore unaffected by any heavy snowfalls that the town is occasionally prone to getting. This system, due to the screen doors, is also fully automated along with passenger information system. However, staff can be deployed to a train in case of an issue. |
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While Amistad is the political centre for all of Chakona, the actual capital of Flinders Continent is Berdoovia. The capitol building housing the provincial legislature and premier, is seen at right. Berdoovia was chosen for this function due to its relatively central location in the continent; it's easy to reach the city and it gives the city another special distinction... aside from being the home of Dewclaw University. The building features glazed panels and tinted glass, as well as green roofs. Much of the legislative and executive activity takes place in the frontmost structure, while the rear structure contains departmental activities.
The Galleria of Berdoovia is built within an old limestone cavern. The original surface was sealed and protected with shotcrete, while the floor was evened out. The wall to the left in this image is part of the original walls. On the lowest level are shops and services, while upper levels built against the cavern walls contain offices and residences. A natural streambed flows through it, now plied by gondolas that can be rented (though to prevent flooding, the excess water is diverted). LED light trails in the floor provide a little bit of kinetic art in that they are triggered by footfalls and change their pattern when stepped upon. This is a private development. Scenic natural portions of the cavern are preserved elsewhere and available for public viewing from galleries. The commercial spaces are somewhat prized due to the unique setting. The hot temperatures mixed with the white sands and warm water make Equatoria one of the best destinations for tourists. Many resorts are perched on the rocky areas above the expansive beaches. Here, no development is allowed on the beaches themselves, allowing the sand to be naturally managed and replenished. Equatoria is also the capital of Cook Island which is also a province. The city is located directly on the equator on the north shore of the island. In this picture, bathers line a narrow bay, partially ringed by vacation resorts. |
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The skylit atrium of Esperanta City Hall. Esperanta is the capital of Vaasa province. Here, the curving walls and balconies of the atrium draw the viewer's eye and allows communication of natural light to all of the interior offices. The atrium roof is shaped much like waves.
Located in Berdoovia, the Art Institute of Chakona is the primary art museum of Chakona, containing thousands of the best works of art indigenous of Chakona. Since Chakona is a new world, a great deal of inventory of the cultures comprising it has been taken. The immigrants from numerous places contribute elements of their upbringing to the cultural mosaic. One such way this is presented is within the themes covered in art. The Institute collection includes numerous paintings, sculptures and curios such as pottery and special clothing. The Institute galleries themselves are large buildings with plenty of space to grow. Spacious, sun-lit galleries also include polarizing filters to avoid damaging the paintings with ultraviolet radiation. |
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An apartment complex in a neighborhood of Amarok, Pacifis. This area is noted as the "Green Hills District," so named for the rolling hills. The developers made a pact to use as much vegetation as possible and hide as many signs of structures as possible. The Starmeadow apartment complex is one such strategy; the apartments are actually entirely underground, accessed by a stairwell. Natural light is provided by a lightwell that functions as an oculus, bringing light down to the living spaces. Many of these apartments have two stories, normally with the sleeping quarters at the bottom level.
The train shed of the Berdoovia Railway Terminal receives travelers not only from distant cities but the suburbs as well. Red-coloured regional trains often bring in commuters,while the intercity Flinders-Pacifis Ultra High Speed maglev system offers service to the other major centres of Flinders and Pacifis continents. A train heading for Eyre (and eventually Riverina and Adele) arrives at left, while one suburban train gets ready to depart. At right, a #6 route train for Brambleside pulls in, getting ready to discharge a late night group of travelers. The hall features multicoloured tinted glass for the railway and transit offices. Interleaved into the curtain wall for the offices is a stone bas relief panelof three chakats of different ages. |
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It's just about sunset time at Whateley Town on the continent of Pacifis, as some residents start to go home. This settlement in the township has its own tram stop, post office and package store, and is entirely constructed of monolithic form buildings. Some of the buildings are formed into other shapes than the normal monolithic domes. Even the tram stop is a thin shell monolithic structure. A drainage system is constructed underneath the development to funnel water into the potable supply or a storm sewer. PTV parking is accessible in a garage underneath the community building at upper left. The views of the rocky seashore are prized here in the buildings arranged along the hillslope and headlands. Paths out of view in this image connect the settlement with the beach where bathers and surfers may go.
At right are just a few of the numerous creatures found in the ocean of Chakona, and is not representative of all species. These creatures are arranged on a grid to show their relative sizes. Almost all of these creatures are omnivorous, especially as their size increases. a) Chakat b) Sea chicken - almost spherical in form, known for basking. c) Darter - this long fish is somewhat eel-like. d) Mudfish - a generic mud-burrowing fish. e) Greater Malley's Eel - this long lamprey-like fish draws small fish into its large, toothy mouth. f) Eel shark - This is a relatively small, narrow and fast shark. g) Aqua ferret - This swimming mustelid catches fish, is known for some tool usage. h) Marine beaver- This amphibious rodent is found near beaches and tends to use its tail to paddle, or to stun its prey. i) Buff shark - This shark also feeds on many species of smaller fish. j) Stonecloud's tuna - This large, savory fish swims in large schools in the open water, and eats zooplankton. k) Tiger dolphin - This predator, a smart mammal, eats many smaller mammals and fish. l) Platefish - this fish is wider than it is thick; its eyes are on the top of its head. It tends to live on the muddy bottoms on continental shelves. m) Gray whale - This is among the larger types of whale; from nose to tail many specimens reach 9 metres. |
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Chakona is a world that's still largely frontier. Sapient beings like chakats, various and sundry taurs, morphs and humans have not settled much of the land and that has let many of the megafauna thrive without outside influence to their habitats. The cooler temperatures mean that there are not many significant reptilian megafauna; here mammals dominate. Most of the mammals are vegetarian but a few are carnivores and several are omnivorous. This diagram is a selection of various megafauna, drawn to scale against a chakat of average height.
a) Goodell's Hawk - This bird of prey is omnivorous and has a 2.5 metre wingspan. b) Great Striped Roo - Among the largest of all land mammals, this marsupial stands almost five metres tall if one excludes the ears. GSRs are vegetarian but can scavenge if necessary. c) Altaic Horse - Far too large to be an effective mount, this vegetarian equine stands three metres tall at the shoulders, and has a four-metre height at the head. d) Labroha (Large Brown Hare) - This enormous rabbit-like creature is a vegetarian and roams plains and thick brush. It is capable of reaching speeds of 100 km/h over a short distance. Some hares, if properly contained, may be raised for meat. e) Obsidian Squirrel - This is the largest of all rodents, and is omnivorous. f) Three-striped Wolverine - This large mustelid has a bushy, long tail. They are primarily carnivorous. g) Chakat h) Scimitar Cat - Largest of any known feline species, are obligate and ferocious carnivores. Weight of a scimitar cat is one tonne and up, and it has a running speed of around 70 km/h. i) Cobaltsong's Dog - Similar to a dhole, these canines are carnivorous but are also known to scavenge kills. j) Leviathan - This bovid is found in large herds on plains. It is raised by Chakona farmers for its meat and milk. k) Dire rat - The second largest of all rodents, this omnivore can be speedy when escaping danger, reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h. l) Obsidian lynx - This cat has a long leap and can be found in trees. It ambushes its prey by leaping from branches above. |
| At right, a Department of Transportation crew surveying a new road in the wilds of Pacifis encounter a scimitar cat! When working in the wild, each work crew includes at least one member that is well-versed in dealing with wildlife. The wrangler makes sure to marshal the crew to stand up to the cat and not panic. Some assurance is given by the stun guns they carry, designed to deliver a warding, nonlethal shock to the attacking creature, and hopefully give it a fear of chakats and other beings. In an emergency though, the guns can be set to lethal level. Where possible, the wrangler is a high E-rating chakat, and shi uses hir ability to instil an instinctive fear in the predator, making it permanently avoid chakats and any other species in the group. This is far more effective in the long run as the animals tend to teach their young to avoid them also. This is an integral part of the plan to develop Chakona with minimal impact on the environment and the native fauna. |
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Aotearoa is one of the geologically active areas on Chakona, and one way in which this manifests itself is through hot springs. Ashokan Hot Springs are among the cooler of the volcanic hot springs. One of the auxiliary pools spills down into intermediate pools that allow for cooling. It is the final pool stages where water temperatures range from around 24 to 42 degrees Celsius, and therefore where the bathers are found. In the distance in the image is one of the slightly hotter springs, venting barely visible wisps of steam at this distance. Ashokan Hot Springs feature a lodge and numerous guest rooms, a therapeutic spa and plenty of recreation options for the traveler looking for rest and relaxation.
About 250 km northwest of New Auckland is the Tarawa Basin Geothermal Plant, producing 2600 MW of base load electricity for a large portion of the continent. This station draws superheated volcanic steam from numerous wells. The steam then travels through conduits where it is used to drive turbines some distance away from the wells. The turbines are hardier than normal steam-electric turbines; they are designed to cope with the various chemicals and other materials found in geothermal steam, not to mention the extremely high temperatures. After the energy is extracted from the steam, it is returned to the well in a recirculatory loop. Due to the heavy metals and other elements present in this type of steam, it is not able to be used as either potable or process water. However, by returning it to the wells, the steam can be recharged by the immense volcanic heat. Since there is an extant volcanic threat due to the nature by which the steam is produced, the facility includes a shelter room and provisions for the entire crew to await rescue from a volcanic event. In the control room, the crew ensure systems are normal. The technician at left is also able to interface with a SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) robot that can interact with the generating systems. It can also beam back telemetry to the base station. From the control room, the path of electricity through the grid can be adjusted, to provide load balancing in case of station outages. This facility interties with other geothermal plants on the continent. |
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At left a small group of students works out a system of curvilinear equations at Agouti Agoura School in Accipiter. This class is part of one secondary level option for students. Since the population of Chakona is very diverse, immigrants arrive with vastly different educational levels and standards. Accordingly, there is not a rigid grade level cohort system on the planet, and students can select different packages of coursework dependent upon their foundational education.
At right, a large thunderstorm starts blowing in as citizens of the coastal city of Berdoovia go about their business, getting ready for the rain and wind. In the centre of the image is the city hall. Out of frame to the right is the courthouse building. |
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Haliaeetus is the capital of Bosporus province of Chakona. Here at the Forum, a large public square, an artisans' fair is being held. The Forum is the site of several public events and is a gathering point for people in the city centre of Haliaeetus. The Forum is bordered by several buildings designed in an antique Roman style, though with much more glass. The domed building in the background centre is the Bosporous Provincial Capitol; at the left is the Hall of Justice containing courtrooms, and at the right is the Haliaeetus City Hall. In the left background is the Rae Building, an office building that is seven storeys above grade and seven below.
The game's over and the Johnston Chakker Club has been victorious, as some happy fans walk down Carderock Street...mingled with some dejected New Auckland fans taking the "walk of shame." Johnston Civic Stadium seats over 35,000 spectators in a mixed-use development in the city centre. The site includes numerous stores and services on the ground storey, interspersed with entrances for the stadium. Upper storeys include offices and boutique hotel; the hotel has windows that can be unblocked to allow guests to see the games. The stadium also features a Johnston Transit tram stop underneath the street so that fans using transit can be protected from the elements. The stadium itself has a retractable roof that allows the natural grass playing surface to be exposed to sunlight, and allows the games to be played in more or less outdoor conditions. As is the case with most stadiums on Chakona, especially municipally developed stadiums like this one, multiple sports (aside from Chakker) are accommodated, such as baseball and field hockey. |
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At left is the main hall of New New York's Central Station, fitted with pink and green stone walls. This late night finds a little bit of foot traffic as passengers go to and from the platforms, with two trains boarding. While New New York is one of the major human settlements on Chakona, they are nevertheless well integrated with the morph and taur population. In fact many humans chose to emmigrate to Chakona to escape the growing friction between the humans and morphs, although they still tend to move into other large human-populated areas like NNY.
At right we see an outside view of another rail station, this time of the main station of the industrial city of Eyre, Flinders. The station features local commuter rail transport as well as Flinders-Pacifis Ultra High Speed maglev service to all of the other major centres. Atop the train shed and platforms is the Bowl restaurant and nightclub, featuring live music and fine continental cuisine. |
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The mountainous regions of central Nova Belarus provide ample opportunity for hydropower. At Whitevixen Falls, a 2.5GW hydro installation is built into the side of the lower gorge, powered by a 160 m head. At left, two workers inspect distribution machinery in the rooftop electrical conduits. These help send the electricity through underground conduits going to the major population centres on the continent. Despite being an industrial complex, the facility is quite picturesque, and is lauded as a perfect example of clean energy generation in harmony with nature.
On the right, pedestrians stroll dry and comfortable through Letras Plaza in Wanganui during the tropical rainy season. The lushly vegetated plaza is surrounded by a glass-roofed arcade that connects the office blocks around it. |
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The Baillie Creek Apartments in Harper are predominately single and studio efficiencies that cater to single individuals, or even a couple that may be able to afford close quarters. Housing options for various income levels are a feature of many cities on Chakona. Not even Chakona is a utopia, and there are people who less well off than others. The difference is that even on the low end of the scale, housing is still a lot better than that found on Earth for a similar demographic. For example, the apartments still have the green roofs, and usually feature courtyards with community gardens. The structures have to meet the high standards required of all buildings on Chakona - construction savings are made mostly on size and efficiency of design. There is a limit to the number of apartments in each complex to prevent overcrowding and the social problems that come with it. These apartments are popular with singles immigrating to Chakona who need to establish themselves before moving on to better things, but there are many who actually prefer the simple, close-knit communities.
Immigrants to Chakona generally tend to bring elements of their culture with them, such as religion. Some immigrants from Earth have formed a small Christian community in Marysville, centred on the Gregoire Park Church. This church was established through donations by members in the community, and is a community and worship centre. The church contains a rectory, baptismal font, several meeting rooms and of course the sanctuary. Its pink stone exterior is sourced from local material. |
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New New York hosts the largest human population on Chakona. Humans of many Earth cultures are represented here in a very cosmopolitan set of neighborhoods. While still conforming to the strict Chakonan building and environment standards, the inhabitants of this city nevertheless have put their unique stamp on the architecture. While this particular neighborhood is primarily human, some morphs still circulate freely among the population.
Dell, like many smaller cities and towns on Chakona, is lightly developed and designed in such a way to make transport efficient. In this case, the town was laid out with a tram line reservation next to the main street. Along this tram line are all of the stores. The tram line connects industrial areas at either end of the central development, with room for expansion should more development be necessary. Due to the layout of the town, a bus service is not necessary since development clusters close to the tram line. The tram also connects with regional rail service to Riverina and other cities in the province. This particular neighbourhood is one that caters to new arrivals and those of primarily lower incomes, though there are some upscale units available. Shopping and other services are available nearby, and there are some detached houses dotted in between some of the larger buildings, which help prevent creation of slums. This is one of the most important directives of the governments in Chakona, to prevent the creation of slums, as they tend to facilitate many ills that can cause widespread pain in a society. Immigration controls do ensure that new arrivals to Chakona have enough money to support themselves. For those who are already there, other strategies such as temporary assistance and an aggressive employment security program help combat poverty. Finally, Chakonans exhibit proactive urban planning with an eye towards aesthetics in the environment. Even when reducing costs by keeping designs simple, these steps go a long way to preventing tenements, shantytowns and squatters' camps from becoming a feature of Chakonan society. |
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The Toledo Bridge is one of the rare Y-shaped bridges on Chakona, crossing the River Gata in Esperanta, the capital of Vaasa province. This pedestrian-only structure has three pillars on the banks of the river, and supports the centre portion via cantilevering. Many pedestrians use this bridge to travel between the civic centre on the north bank and the shopping district on the south. In the background on the left is the Vaasa Legislative Assembly, while on the right is Esperanta's City Hall.
Due to its greatly different geography and climate, Chakona does not have much in the way of true deserts, but nevertheless there are some such regions, and these are the ideal habitats of the Desert Breed Stellar Foxtaur. Two such foxtaurs begin their relaxing dip in Samu Oasis on Didwana continent as dusk rapidly approaches. A hamlet of the same name almost completely encircles the deep lake, and both locales are protected by palm-like trees. The residents of the village primarily quarry sand and stone from terrain nearby. Many of the structures have basements and other subterranean locations that residents can retreat to in the heat of the day. From time to time, new connecting passageways are built beneath the streets that not only house conduits but a cool path from place to place. Temperatures can reach around 40 degrees Celsius very easily here. Due to its isolation, the hamlet must be basically self-sufficient. To that end, electricity is provided by wind and solar energy, both of which are very common here. There are backup fusion generators that will power the water filtration and essential services should that become necessary. |
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Due to its location and highly varied topography, Didwana Continent provides just about every type of climate, and thus a great number of ecosystems, which is why it became the destination of choice for pioneering foxtaurs of all breeds. While not all foxtaurs settle there, if seeing their varied lifestyles and cultures is of interest, you cannot go past this country.
Tekwa village at left is home to about 70 Forester Stellar Foxtaurs. Some on Chakona seek an even more harmonious relationship with the natural environment, and shape their lives around this principle. These villages have minimal impact on the surroundings, and the people within them tend to live off the land. While the life here is simple, as the routine involves the basic work to get food to eat and to take care of the surroundings, there is still modern technology. Rain can be collected into rainbarrels and provide easy potable water, and there is a community bath nearby to ensure proper sanitation. One of the foxtaurs is carrying a roll of solar paper, which charges heaters for the rare nights in which it gets cold. Otherwise this tropical forest is quite warm and comfortable (if not muggy at times). At right, a tribal Red Fox breed foxtaur from the Two Rivers settlement readies a medium shot for some game across a river. The meat brought back by the hunting party can be processed and even taken to a market to trade for durable and dry goods, such as this advanced bow. This band of foxtaurs uses some outside technology transfers to allow for more stability in maintaining their culture and lifestyle. By increasing the efficiency of hunting, more time is created in order to make handcrafted goods that can also be brought to market. In addition, some members of the band will make improvements upon shelter and tools. |
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The population of Chakona increases by two as this young couple exits Immigration at the Chakona Gateway. They are off to Nova Belarus to begin their lives, real estate and job listings in hand. Friends and family are living in Knightsport already, meaning that they are almost certainly relocating there. Millions of feet (and thousands of wheels) have traversed this hallway as the migrants begin to make their home on the frontier world.
West of Accipiter, Bosporus, a small hydroelectric station takes in some flow from the Arcadia River as it goes over the 20m Thessalon Falls. This 100MW station provides energy for the nearby hamlet of Thessalon and the farms and businesses nearby. Bosporus Hydro exploits a great deal of hydroelectric potential in the central mountain range of the continent, powering all of the cities in that province with ease. Small stations like this provide backup for the power grid. Advances in generating technology mean that small stations like this are largely uncrewed, and technicians like this one will periodically come in to perform routine maintenance on the equipment. The technicians have remote monitoring tools and SCADA (Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition) robots to play the station's local network and collect data. Most of the interface with the system can also be done by "jacking in" to the control panel. The management of small stations is normally done remotely in a central control room for an electric power agency's coverage area. |
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With Chakona's growing population, construction is a very common occupation. New buildings have to be built all the time to house more and more families. This apartment complex in Eucla City, Bonifacio, will tend to cater to chakat clans, allowing for suite units that can hold up to 16 people each. Here, masons stack concrete masonry units (blocks) on reinforcements to form the major walls between units. Interior partition walls will be drywall on metal stud.
In some fast-growing communities on Chakona, it's of utmost importance to have more homes, shops and offices available for occupancy immediately. One method of constructing multistorey buildings quickly is through the use of pre-formed hollow core concrete slabs. With a cohesive structural system (in this case, perforated steel box beams), multistorey buildings can be constructed with smaller crews and less time. This building in Matanui is going to be one of the tallest in this relatively small community, at a modest four storeys above grade and two below. |
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Even small towns have inviting and grand public spaces. The Martins Arcade in Ghenna connects two office and retail buildings in the town centre, allowing the population a lovely place to shop and do work, especially in the winter months. Rainwater is collected and used for plumbing fixtures in the building, and leafy vegetation is found throughout, indoors and outdoors. The only portion of the building's roof not covered by vegetation is the large arched skylight.
Curtisport, Skunktaur Archipelago is sited at a beautiful natural harbour. This prime location also places Curtisport directly in the middle of prime fishing grounds. To that end, several fisheries are located in the harbour. The harbour is bustling at many times of day, and delivery trucks ply the streets back and forth, delivering fresh fish to plants, restaurants and even end consumers. Telekinetic skunktaurs use their talents occasionally to move the parcels of fish back and forth. Their empathetic and telekinetic talents are also useful for deterring unwanted fish species from being caught, making them a vital asset to a fishing team. |
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A rice farmer in Bonifacio Province harvests hir fields as a BEELine maglev passes through on an elevated viaduct on the way to New New York. The province of Bonifacio hosts many plains areas that are great for agriculture, but this terrain of rolling hills and valleys is suitable as well.
Harrn'tuk'harr, the Caitian-founded township on Flinders Continent, has a modern civic centre that hosts public space and transportation facilities. At left in this picture is the Town Hall, home to the local council. The Town Hall is a monolithic concrete structure with some large window panels that direct large amounts of light into the structure, such that all offices receive natural light. The council chamber in the centre of the building is surrounded by the municipal offices. To the right is Ginna'mai Station, offering Ultra-High Speed maglev access to Amistad and other cities on Chakona. The station platforms are entirely underground, and air rights are developed above the station so as to provide an uninterrupted public space. As it is the dry season, vegetation is looking a little more brown, but nevertheless there are many water conservation features that will help ensure vegetation remains. Greywater is recycled constantly to feed the plants in the planters, and where possible green roofs are available. |
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At the northern portion of Nova Belarus lies the township of Ghenna which lays claim to being the hometown of the majority of Chakona's cold-climate species, including a small population of Polar Caitians. Unlike the most common Caitians, Polar Caitians are all-white and have thicker fur. Ghenna is an ideal locale for them as the temperatures are relatively cool all year round, and there is ample snow to boot. Industries in this town include fishing and lumber, but the biggest is seasonal, catering to winter sports tourists. An excellent variety of slopes caters to virtually all snow sports, from amateur to professional. Specialty shops serve the local populace, and in this picture they are just opening for the day's business.
Late night at Eucla's Central Terminal is the best time to clean the floors. By the time the morning rush begins, this sole custodian will have cleaned all of the floor of the common area and interior halls. Aiding him are two self-propelled wash/buff machines. The smaller of the two machines will zero in on tougher stains automatically and wear them down or otherwise destroy them. It will automatically sense when a person is nearby to avoid colliding with them or any other objects. The durable terrazzo floor will last for generations and includes artwork with it to add to the aesthetics of the public space. Another pair of custodians are responsible for cleaning the platforms, and collecting any litter that may have found its way onto the tracks. |
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The Didwana Province House is the seat of government for Didwana Province. Located in the centre of the beautiful city of Silver Lake, the House is surrounded by public gardens and parks. The building itself has an ashlar face specially designed to anchor hanging vines and ivy to give the building a weathered appearance. Green-tinted windows are insulated and can be opened for additional ventilation. The "jewel box" atrium at the top of the stepped pyramid-like structure is an observation gallery and cafeteria where visitors and employees alike can lounge and eat.
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Impressed by shipping? The Port of Wanganui is the busiest on the planet! Even in the future, when it comes to moving many tonnes of freight, the most efficient way for all that bulk is by boat (and then rail). Massive container ships can carry numerous containers of freight between continents. The standardised containers contain just about anything, any sort of consumer goods, parts, you name it. Here at Wanganui's Benton Quay, an intermodal setup helps quickly load maglev freight trains for their eventual destinations to other cities on the Flinders-Pacifis maglev network. The M/V Sunning Turtle has made call and is almost emptied of its load of multicoloured shipping containers. In the background, a tug is getting ready to assist another vessel as the M/V Curtis Star gets ready to depart with a full load. Massive, green gantry cranes roll along permanent tracks. These are double-ended to allow for two ships and four sets of trains to be loaded and unloaded with ease. There are even intermodal chassis that allow containers to be hauled by a road truck for local delivery to Wanganui and environs. This is a round-the-clock operation, which helps to keep the equipment in top working order by constantly moving. And when the freight keeps moving, Chakona's industry keeps moving.
The Province House in Knightsport is the seat of Nova Belarus' provincial government. The glass-walled building, complete with numerous atriums, is the centrepiece of a great deal of public space in the city, including Redfern Square, a busy crossing area for pedestrians. |
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A popular place to socialise is The Cat's Eye Pub located in Marpletown, Flinders Continent. Built to a traditional design but with regard to Chakonan building practices, it retains the charm of an older era on Earth. While alcohol is of course served, it nevertheless has family-friendly facilities also, being a mix between a restaurant, bar, and stopping point for travellers. This family-owned business fast became popular because you can relax inside at the bar, get good high-quality food, or if you wish you can use the terrace behind the pub to enjoy the view over the little lake that it backs onto. With a lot of effort by the owners Chakats Midsnow and Blacktail, the little business has grown into a popular point to begin a hike through the nearby woods or end a hike and share a delicious meal with friends. |
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From behind the bar at The Cat's Eye Pub, you can see directly into the Festival Hall, a popular venue for many functions held in the Marpletown area.
The edifice at right is the City Hall of Eucla City, a semicircular structure around the circular Revelstoke Plaza. The concrete building features a green roof. All offices in the building have a window either facing the plaza or Brambley Street. |
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The centre of Chicago Lake, the jewel of Bonifacio's Inland Empire, is a busy place indeed. The highlight of this is the Public Square with its fountains, and the central railway station featuring BeeLine service between New New York and Eucla City. Unlike the stations in either city, the Chicago Lake station is one that emphasizes fast motion. A car park is located above the station, and functions as a stable for PTVs serving the surrounding office and residential blocks.
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The two largest continents on Chakona are Pacifis and Flinders. While Pacifis is bigger, Flinders Continent was chosen as the site of First Landing for its greater advantages. However, colonising Pacifis followed not too long after. For a long time, all travel between these two continents was done either by ship or air despite the fact that the two were separated by less than eighty kilometres by the Chainlink Strait, named after the series of islands that are the remains of an ancient land bridge that used to connect the continents. Virtually invisible on the large scale maps, as you zoom in, a plethora of islands varying from several kilometres wide to mere metres is revealed. Only eighteen Chakonan years ago, an important piece of infrastructure was completed – The Trans-Chainlink Highway – an island-hopping series of bridges and tunnels that united the two land masses. The upper deck caters to vehicular traffic, while a lower deck has a maglev track. Nowadays it is not only a heavily trafficked and vital transport link, but also a boon to tourism. The large island that is midway on the highway initially had a rest stop, but that grew into a major holiday resort that caters mainly to various water sports and other recreational activities that are popular in the area. |
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On the central, most populated island of the Chainlink, there are a few resorts and a highway rest area on the middle of the Trans-Chainlink Highway. Travelers here can take a bite to eat or even explore the island and its lovely beaches. A permanent population staffs the island's services and amenities, which include hotels, resorts, a cruise port (in the background), hospital, a maglev station on the UHS system, and ample outdoor activities like fishing, diving, hiking and camping. The highway, when it traverses a bridge, carries maglev tracks beneath it. Bridges are normally high enough for navigation. Development is set back considerably from the coast itself, allowing for a natural barrier of marshes, tall grass and other thick vegetation. This protects fragile sand dunes and allows the beaches to have more of an 'unspoiled' look. This setback also protects developments from storm surge and other wave action.
Fourth Pass in the Chainlink is a very popular route for boats to traverse, and that includes the regular cruise excursions, making the view here quite a common sight. The Merryweather, a fully appointed cruise ship with room for over 3000 passengers, makes one of its routine transits through the Fourth Pass above the Chainlink's Fourth Pass Bridge/Tunnel. The combination tunnel/bridge, like the others in the Chainlink, carries both a motorway and the Flinders-Pacifis Ultra-High Speed maglev line across the Chainlink between Flinders and Pacifis continents. |
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At left, two cadets of the Chakona Defence Force are on routine patrol through corridors on the Gateway. The CDF is responsible for protecting Chakona from the numerous dangers of space, whether they be bolides or hostile raiders. At their disposal they have the latest in energy weapons, numerous nimble attack and pursuit ships, as well as a heavy complement of service vehicles. The CDF's sphere of authority extends to 100 million kilometres outward from Chakastra's outermost planet, and all the way to the surface of Chakona. As a combined national guard/coast guard organisation, they are responsible for security at spaceports, rescue missions both in space and on the surface, and other emergency activities beyond the scope of the police force.
At right is Captain Chakat Dana Harwell is second in command of the Chakonan Defence Force's 10th Flight Squad. This company's mission is to eliminate space hazards and keep the routes clear to and from Chakona in its local space. They team up with the Space Reconnaissance Command that monitors near space for rogue bodies or distress signals. Harwell's command is based out of the Chakona gateway. At left, Chakona Defence Force Space Reconnaissance has detected a derelict private starship with an activated rescue beacon, drifting into the sector. The automated message has broadcast the characteristics of the vessel; 200 souls aboard, undergone attack, lost propulsion. A rescue task force of the 11th Division scrambles in their hangar on the Chakona Gateway. The complement includes a tow ship (in the background of this image) with maintenance equipment on board that may be able to either grasp the ship and take it to safety, or dispatch maintenance to get its systems into working order. A command ship, hospital ship and one squadron of escort fighters will accompany the fleet as they head for a rendezvous. Already, telemetry is being calculated for flight computers that will allow the squad to come up behind the stricken vessel on its current path. They can then get the vessel under control and, if possible, save the occupants. Typically a fast fighter will scout the area before the rest of the ships arrive in order to assess the situation, and to ensure that there isn't any danger to the rescuers, whether it be due to the condition or the possiblity of a trap laid by pirates. Because they have VTOL capability, many of the ships are fitted with skids which enable them to land on planets and their moons in order to effect rescues where there aren't runways, but the skids have retractable wheels for taxiing purposes. |
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A Chakonan Defence Force patrol pilot cruises in the perimeter of the gargantuan Chakona Gateway as normal traffic goes to and from the docks. The Chakona Gateway is a spoke-and-hub-type space station, dual powered with solar and fusion energy. It is here that all interstellar travelers must arrive to be processed for their journey to the planetary surface. Full-sized starships are received at the eight docks on the spoke. A "sterile" pathway leads from each to the customs and immigration facilities towards the centre cluster of the gateway. Preliminary screening is done at the gates, and then depending on the destination, the travelers may be sent to different portions of the Gateway. Once the traveler has been cleared to spend time on Chakona, they may remain in the ship itself or at the numerous hotels for hire on board. Their journey to the planetary surface is accomplished by going to one of the circumferential docks. People movers whisk travelers to different portions of the Gateway so as to reduce foot traffic and congestion, where possible. Because of the large amount of starship and shuttle traffic, controllers are positioned at a "tower" below the forward power mast (at left in the image). They sequence the shuttles and starships with the aid of computers. The Gateway is also home to the main offices of the Chakonan Defence Force. They are the top security authority on the station and within the Chakastran system, ceding its authority to Star Fleet only for Federation-level matters. They are stationed throughout and the main barracks are aft of the civilian accomodations, in the core cluster. Those that work on the Gateway also tend to live there; their accomodations are in numerous locations such as the spokes and rim. Finally, the aft section and stem of the Gateway contain most of the electrical power and life support systems, though for redundancy, extra life support and power systems are located throughout the station.
At right, a squadron of the 5th Fighter-Interceptor Group is sent to interdict some pirates currently attacking a merchant vessel at the outskirts of the Chakastra system. Star Fleet has also been notified just in case, but these seasoned pilots will be able to take care of the situation. The pilots get to their fighters while the prep crew (in yellow suits) helps them get ready and perform rapid pre-flight checks on the flightline. The fighters then taxi to one of the pressurised hangar locks where they then fly to the mission location. A sizable number of the CDF's fighter pilots are female Caitians, owing to their compact size and great multitasking ability. Their smaller bodies provide more resistance to the high G-forces encountered when dealing with evasive manouevres of enemy ships. |
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At left a Stellar Foxtaur tug pilot moves containers into blocks so that they can be placed in the hold of an AY-53 "Stingray" glider. These reusable ships can be crewed or uncrewed, and travel back and forth between orbit and the surface, dropping off materials mined from either moon of Chakona. Due to advances in computer and navigation technology, the gliders can follow programmed flight paths that automatically compensate for gravitation and temperature. Meanwhile, the insulated hull keeps the cargo containers safe until it's time to unload them at the freight facility. Each will land at the Spaceport's freight facility where materials can be distributed via the intermodal maglev system to ports or other cities. Occasionally, when a cargo is highly valuable, a guard crew will ride along on the glider. Otherwise, monitoring and piloting are done from a remote location.
At right you can see Chakona's Orbital Space Hangar and Dock Station as it orbits in the vicinity of the Gateway. Here, major frame service and maintenance are performed on starships and other large craft. Some bays are reserved for starship construction as well, though a shipbuilding industry has not been established as of yet. The Station is roughly 7 kilometres long. The matching exterior hangars accept the largest starships, and are able to be pressurised to allow for varying levels of work. Some of the hangars also receive parts and raw materials. Futher pressurised hangars are found towards the interior of the ship, accepting smaller starships. They are accessed through the centre gallery of each end of the station. If the work required is exterior cleaning work, it can be done in an unpressurised hangar or at the Chakona Gateway, and is almost always done by robots. The Chakonan Defence Force bases the majority of its vessels here, and all the personnel who aren't stationed on Chakona Gateway. In the picture, Lieutenant Commander Chakat Gardenwell gets ready to return to quarters after a long patrol circuit. At the top of the image, a tow ship prepares to bring a starship in for service. |
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At left, Rayne Hadley, an elementary science teacher for Rodgers Base One on the moon Ka'turna, looks over some of the food crops in bin 15A. 15A contains a classroom-maintained hydroponic environment that her students help care for. The hydroponic facility, part of a network, helps ensure that the nutrition needs of the base's workers and families are met. Many operations to extract precious ores and transport them to Chakona are present on this moon. Assisting Ms. Hadley is a roving botanic computer, which also contains storage for seeds and helps the farmers manage the crops for maximum yield. The low gravity also allows the plants to grow much bigger than they would on Chakona. Oxygen is supported by alternate fallow plots where plants are allowed to grow wild and maintain the atmosphere. The dome is hermetically sealed to the outdoors, but communication is achieved through ground-level passages. In the background, Chakona "rises" above the horizon.
At right, it's party time as some pirates decided to cause some trouble. A CDF squadron has been dispatched and there's a few boarding ships. This boarding ship has secured an airlock and begins their raid by inserting a "Conning Turtle" drone. This drone rolls about on quiet wheels usually, but is designed to be low-profile so that it can readily expose any countermeasures that pirates or other neer'do'wells may have, either by recording them or by drawing their fire. Normally the boarding sequence begins with securement of the boarding ship to the exterior of the target vessel, scanning for life support and securement of that, then insertion of the drone, and then finally as the doors are forced open, the group goes in and begins to engage any combatants in order to bring them into custody. The boarding party carries reserve oxygen on their persons in case of any sort of issue with the airlock. Normally the missions are timed such that they can have control of the target vessel and secure its control systems within a half hour. |
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One of the moons of Chakona, Cha'turna, has numerous pure iron deposits as well as numerous other precious and rare metals. Without any natural life to disturb, the surface can be plied for these materials. Large crawler/excavators do the bulk of the mining, breaking the precious ores down into manageable blocks that can be taken up into space containers for the relatively short trip to the surface of Chakona. Mining is an inherently polluting activity so much of it is done away from Chakona. The tradeoff, however, is very pure ores and therefore less processing time. Ores meant for consumption as parts for spacecraft can even be refined and processed on the moon and then spacecraft/structures constructed there. In this picture, mechanics travel to Crawler 23N in Brembley Crater. There is a skeletal crew on board that operates and troubleshoots operations along with a fleet of droid robots, but sometimes extra service and parts have to be brought in from the base station.
Flutterkitties are another historic experiment in genetic engineering, essentially creating small winged cats. The wings are not big enough compared to their mass for flight similar to that of a bird, but the tiny cats are able to glide short distances. They have become a not-uncommon pet on Chakona as well. On Chakona's moon Ka'Turna, an office worker at one of the mining settlements is working on records whilst two pet flutterkitties come down off a perch for a meal. In the lower gravity, they are capable of much greater feats of flight. |
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Chakats and Chakona are the creation of Bernard "Goldfur" Doove, and remain my intellectual property.
The Chakat Universe is also the creation of Bernard Doove. However, I wish to acknowledge the huge contributions that Seth Triggs has put into this pictorial article.
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