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Short Story

The Prime Directive

A short story about ethics and the Final Frontier, by Alister Browne.

The Starlight Lounge is a home-away-fromhome for members of Starfleet Command. There, in an atmosphere of conviviality unmatched in the galaxy, Cadets, Admirals, secretaries, and bureaucrats democratically gather to seek refuge and refreshment. Cadet Rostov paused as he entered, waiting for his eyes to adjust to the subdued light. From the corner, someone called his name.

“Over here,” the voice said, “join us.

…