A thousand light years from home. Within the Orion Spur, exists a system, colloquially known as the Far Far Range. Known as one of the furthest planets from Sol to be colonized, though that term is used roughly. The planet is home to no more than a few hundred humans at any given time, most of them operating within the trading station that orbits high above the thick atmosphere of the planet. The human presence on this planet is due to it’s interesting, and thought to be impossible biosphere. In other words, it has cool, interesting, and never before seen animals, Slimes. Indeed, the primary population of the planet is groups of animals, who seem to be in their own kingdom.

This planet is my new home for the foreseeable future. Ever since I was a child, exploring and understanding the universe was something I always aspired to do. As I grew up, I educated myself, and my parents helped me save money. Eventually I built my own gear, and after a few years of working a dead-end job after college I caved. I bought the ticket, one which would put me in stasis for six months to reach this new frontier.

So, long story short, here I am, having safely landed on this alien world, it’s time to make myself a home, and study this world to learn more about it, and why we didn’t end up like it did. Due to rather interesting circumstances, none of my equipment arrived with me, but thankfully I was prepared! A local rancher, Beatrix LeBeau, has offered me a place to stay until my equipment arrives. Though it’s not without its cost, I have to assist her on her ranch. Perhaps this was for the best, it will allow me to learn from a veteran rancher, as well as learning how to handle slimes in a more controlled environment.

With all this introductory logging out of the way, it’s time to remind myself, and anyone else who is interested enough to read this, why I’m creating this diary. Many scientific papers may come out of this adventure, but there are things that can’t be put into those papers. Personal experiences, simple field notes, memories. This is for reference, to be able to remember these wonderful times once the moment is over.

Camped out and waiting for the sun to rise to meet my sponsor, the calm, cool breeze of an immense sea. It’s all so peaceful and relaxing. After six months in stasis, you’d think I wouldn’t want more sleep. But the gentle waves and songs of the pillars seems to put me at ease. I will stop and rest for the night, thankfully, I brought a tent with me. Even in this first day, this place has stunned me with an amazing view. The moon rising, with glints of glowing slimes in the distance.

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So.. I did an art. Despite having issues with the lines being butts. This was done on sketchbook, and was the first time I ever worked in it, so a lot of experimenting. Anyway, enjoy the moon rising above the Far Far Range.

Slime Rancher © Monomi Park
Art © Me,  msgtfrank