Standoff in the Crater.
Chapter 2.
Five hours had pass since Team Uno embarked on their exploration to find a source of food
and water, the other 2995 people were anxious and uncertain of what to do and were trying to
find a purpose or some way to contribute, but the majority of people were getting agitated,
complaining among their groups to their lead hand which made up the council about their lost
families and safety.
Among the 30 groups, some people were gathering and piling stones from among the wide
open field, while others were gathering dried twigs and leaves. However, the majority were
paralyzed by indecision and fear, thinking about the surrounding forest that the team of five
ventured into. None of them were currently hungry or thirsty, but they knew it was only a matter
of time. When that time came, would they be forced to go into the forest or just wait for team
Uno, who bravely ventured out to return with essential supplies? Maybe this wasn't an alien
planet, and they might run into other travellers or campers.
As much as they tried not to think about the animals that may or may not be lurking within the
surrounding forest or the fact that they were on an alien planet, they couldn't shake the fact
that they were born anew. The new and somewhat familiar sounds of birds, bugs, and
squabbling animals were so audible despite the dense trees and bushes; looking around at
each other, they could tell that they had gone through a change when they came to this planet.
Some even wondered if they were still human.
Meanwhile, using the new title of General leader, Joe was taking the time to talk to a few of the
working persons trying to be productive within his group when he noticed how unorganized
they were. Looking around at the other groups, he realized that for the last five hours, nothing
noticeable had changed. Calling out to a nearby colleague for help, a fellow council member
who went by Jewel came over to see what the matter was.
Joe's expression tightened with resolve as he turned to Jewel, his gaze intense and
unwavering. "Jewel, we need to talk," he said, his voice carrying the weight of urgency. He
leaned in slightly, his body language conveying a sense of determination. We're wasting
valuable daylight and energy here, and we're not making the most of the resources we have. All
these people. All these feet, hands, brains and muscles, they are not being put to good use."
Jewel's brow furrowed as she listened to Joe's words, her eyes flickering with concern. She
shifted uneasily, her hands clasping and unclasping at her sides, a sign of the internal conflict
raging within her. "I know, Joe. It's a precarious situation we're in. With 3000 people to feed
and shelter, and the uncertainty of Team Uno's return, we can't afford to waste any time or be
reckless by giving persons task just for production sake. With no way to replenish energy we
might as well sit around and wait."
Joe: "Fuck that. They need to be hungry. They need to be tired. They need to be desperate.
They need to worry about their lives some more, so they can awake their primal nature and
instincts. I think we need to gather all 30 groups together for a meeting. We need to discuss
our options and come up with a plan of action. We can't rely solely on Team Uno's return for
food and water scouting. We need to be proactive in a positive way that can reduce the risk,
but reward the effort. In order to build shelter we need the materials from the surround forest,
and material to construct fire for when the sun sets."Jewel: "I understand your concern, Joe, but we also have to consider the risks involved.
Sending people out to scout the edges of the forest could be dangerous. And what if Team
Uno doesn't find anything? God forbids, but what if they don't come back? What then?"
Joe's jaw tightened at her response, but he remained steadfast. "I get that, Jewel. But we can't
just sit around and wait for something to happen. Do you think your God brought us here to
watch us wait around for handouts from him? Are we waiting for miracles? Just from the few
people I've talked to around my group alone, I can tell that they are the best of the best.
Electricians and plumbers are basically useless right now, sadly, but they had architects among
the group, healthcare workers, farmers, construction workers, gym rats, and environmental and
social scientists. We need to take control of our situation. We need to assess our resources,
prioritize our needs, and come up with contingency plans. We have capable individuals among
us who can handle scouting missions much better than Team Uno can. To be honest, we
should have been thinking this way before sending that team into the forest. No weapons, no
information, no chance. It's going to be a big blunder on my part.
Jewel: "You're right, Joe. You fucked up. but you didn't make that decision on your own. We all
did. All 30 of us that make up the council sent that team off to die. We can't afford to make
more mistakes or to be passive. We need to be proactive in our approach. Alright, let's call the
other council members and anyone willing to listen. Let's hear your suggestions for moving
forward."
A brief silence hung between them as they locked eyes, each grappling with the weight of the
decision before them. Then, with a nod of agreement, Joe said, "Us humans, we'll find a way to
weather this storm and emerge stronger on the other side. Let's get to work. Lets call the
council members and anyone willing to listen to our suggestions for moving forward."
After a few minutes of screaming at and for people's attention, 1000 of the 2995 people in the
settlement gathered to hear what Joe had to say.
Watching as they trickled in around him, Joe gaze across the bustling people around him with
a mixture of frustration and determination. He couldn't stand the chaotic way things were
unfolding. But it's to be expected since God level magic teleported them to this new unknown
planet, but its being over five hours, why haven't their instincts kicked in? Doesn't their brains
have a fight or flight reaction to dangerous situations?
With a sigh, Joe straightened up, his mind racing with ideas on how to bring order to the
chaos. He knew they had the opportunity to build something incredible here, to forge a new
society from scratch. But they needed direction. They needed leadership. And with the new
position as General leader, he was the guy to get shit done.
Clearing his throat, Joe stepped forward, his voice ringing out over the crowd. "Alright, listen
up, folks," he began, his tone authoritative yet somehow inviting. "I know we're all a bit lost
right now, but that's no reason to panic. We've got a chance here to do something amazing, to
create a whole new world for ourselves. But it's going to take each and every one of us pulling
our weight."
He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "I'm not just talking about physical
strength here. We need brains, too. People with skills, with experience. We need the builders,
the fighters, the hunters. We need everyone who's willing to step up and make a difference.
From here, I can see a few dick heads and pussies in the crowd, but rest assure we need those
people too."
A small smile played at the corners of Joe's lips as he surveyed the faces before him. He could
see the spark of determination flickering in their eyes, the glimmer of hope amidst theuncertainty. "So let's get to work, people. Let's show this planet what we're made of. And who
knows? Maybe one day, we'll look back on this moment as the beginning of something truly
incredible. Be sure to group with people of your same profession and with those that
complement your profession."
Just before they dismissed, Joe made an odd request that everyone should remove and put
away one clean article of clothing. As his heart swelled with pride as the crowd erupted into
cheers, applause and confusion to that last statement. They might be far from home, facing
unknown dangers at every turn, but Joe knew that together, they could conquer anything.
As the other generals listened, Joe went on to mention that he needed a group responsible for
creating the necessary tools for building and survival, such as axes, knives, spears, hammers,
small bowls, and ropes. Once the tools were made, he made it clear that the majority of the
labourers would gather and provide the raw resources needed to construct basic shelters and
fires. Because these tools have a short shelf life, he made sure to have a maintenance group to
replace damaged tools and craft rope.
The last group was the defence team to watch over workers when they went the forest edge to
gathering resources.
When Joe was done, he dismissed the people, and they immediately started gathering all the
stones in the surrounding field, along with any pieces of wood they could find. Before long,
they made enough stone tools to put a factory out of business. The tools weren't perfect at
first, but with every build and personal review, they got better, and so did the labour workers.
Gemski, one of the other generals, noticed that the architect, engineers and contractors were
gathered, talking about a green city that forever lives. Loving the small ideas they had, the 50
engineers formed a team to create a small town layout for the settlement.
This team would be responsible for the placement of structures and common areas along with
defensive walls.
The town had a simple design that the other two generals were quick to approve of, and the
layout was future proof making it easy for them to upgrade when technology got developed or
if it was time to expand into a city.
The location could have been better, especially since there wasn't any access to water, but it
was, for the most part, safe-looking.
While developing the details, it couldn't be helped that these city planners' first instinct was to
plan the roads and routes for lines of electrical wiring, sewage and water.
However, it didn't slip the engineer's minds that these designs were the bare minimum. They
needed to first familiarize themselves with the local climate and environment. The most simple
housing design was inspired by the A-frame house that was built in 1934.
However, Gemski added a few modification to the A-frames design which raised the building
from off the ground onto platforms, this was a last-minute change based on something that
Timmon of the first exploration team mentioned that influenced that choice.
After issuing the estimated amount of material and length that they would need, and the other
settlers where busy cutting down trees, Gemski was starting to wonder what to do next.
Labour was something he should contribute more of a town start up, but his skills was stocked
in laziness.
Looking off into the distance, he started to see a building appear in his mind: a crown for his
masterpiece design, a place where all roads should lead. With all the construction happening,
he was confident the people could pull off constructing a few builds in a month or two. With his
military precision and urban engineering background, he had whipped up a design with his
team for a settlement that was not only sustainable but also environmentally friendly. Wastereduction? Check. Eco-friendly materials? Double check. They were damn near impressive,
seeing that they had no paper or tools to help with anything.
Gemski gathered the council and his top contributing engineers for a brainstorming session
and outlined his vision for the HQ. He knew they needed a central hub where the council could
handle day-to-day tasks and keep things running smoothly. Security was a priority, hence the
select few invited to the meeting.
Meanwhile, Lady Vee had her own plans brewing. Determined to bring a touch of modernity to
their primitive surroundings, she enlisted Gemski's expertise for her research and development
area. Of course, Gemski wasn't one to pass up a chance for a future favour.
With the land surveyed and Lady Vee's building underway, Gemski and his team sprang into
action to not just design the HG layout but also a Research lab.
When all was said and done, they began to use stones and channels to map out the housing
blocks and roads with precision. With the help of some skilled Japanese artisans, they got to
work constructing wooden huts without a single nail in sight.
Nine hours later, a group began to approach where the generals were working, the intense heat
of the sun beating down upon them mercilessly. Gemski, noticing the solemn expressions on
their faces, shaded his eyes with his hand, trying to discern the reason behind their troubled
demeanour. As he glanced around, he could sense a silent undercurrent of worry pervading the
group, a shared apprehension that seemed to hang in the air like a heavy fog.
Without a word spoken, Gemski's heart sank as he realized the gravity of the situation. From
the way they carried themselves and the cautious glances exchanged between them, it was
clear that something was amiss as he met their silent gazes. A sense of foreboding washed
over him, a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach that told him all he needed to know.
Standing in uneasy silence, surrounded by the symphony of nature's song, they couldn't help
but reflect on their shortcomings.
Organization? Lacking. Water? Scarce. Fire? Absent. Food? Elusive. Shelter? Inadequate.
Energy conservation? A foreign concept.
Their prideful ignorance had led to tragedy. Five lives were lost and sent off without a proper
plan or backup. Thirteen hours had passed since their departure, far beyond the intended
eight-hour expedition. And now, they waited in dread, knowing that every passing moment only
increased the likelihood of a grim outcome.
A heavy sense of gloom settled over the crowd, threatening to suffocate them with despair. But
then, as if sensing the despair weighing down their spirits.
"People," Joe's voice cut through the heavy silence, his tone carrying both urgency and
reassurance. "I know the weight of our situation bears down on us like the heat of this
unforgiving sun, but we've come too far to succumb to despair now. Team Uno was a big
mistake this soon into getting here, I know that now, but look around you. We've been facing
challenges since we got here, and we've overcome them. This may be our toughest test yet,
dealing with this lost, but it's not one we can not handle together."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over the faces of those gathered, taking in their weary
expressions and the lingering fear in their eyes. "Let's not sugar-coat it. We're stranded on an
alien planet with no food, no water, and no knowledge of our surroundings, facts that I know to
well have been circulating within your minds. But we're not without resources. We have each
other, and that's something to hold onto. Look at what we have done today alone, and its
basically just midday-ish, we did all this clearing and cleaning on an empty stomach. I was
looking at you people build shit! And even though I saw it, I still didn't believe it. Like? Are you
cutting trees with stones? You people are good as fuck!"Joe's words were measured, and his demeanour was calm yet resolute as he addressed the
group. "We've made mistakes, there's no denying that. Out of all the capable people fit for a
scouting job, no one among us stepped up to the challenge, and we let those who were
insufficient volunteer to take a risk for humanity, and even then, none of us requested to assist
their bravery or tried to stop them. At the time, self-preservation was each and everyone of us
priority, and we abandoned the collective. But we have evolved. Dwelling on our failures won't
get us anywhere. What's done is done. What matters now is how we move forward. We need
to hold ourselves accountable, learn from our missteps, and adapt to our circumstances."
"Right now, our priority is survival. We need to assess our state of being and identify our
immediate needs. Food, water, shelter, you know the vibe, these are the basics. We may not
have the tools or technology we're accustomed to, but we're resourceful. We'll find a way to
make do with what we have."
Joe's voice rose with conviction as he outlined their path forward. "We need to come together,
brainstorm ideas, and craft a plan of action. We can't afford to waste time or make reckless
decisions. Lives are at stake here, and we owe it to ourselves and to Team Uno to do
everything in our power to ensure our safety, and that we don't need to put anyone else in a
position to easily die, but lets hold out our judgments on the fact that they are dead. The truth
of the matter is, we don't know yet. Who are we to count them out so soon, they might be
capable, and more than any must have understood what volunteering meant and the dangers
that followed that choice."
He locked eyes with each member of the group, his gaze unwavering. "I believe in us. I believe
in our resilience, our ingenuity, and our strength. We've faced adversity before people, and
we've emerged stronger for it. Some of you are on a path to gaining skills you would have
never learned, and it's all for the betterment of you and the new human race. Let's not falter
now. Let's rise to the challenge before us and show the universe what we're made of. If you
feel helpless, then do it for Team Uno; if they are on their way back, give them a home to return
to, and if they can't, then give them a world they could be proud of. I'm not a heartless person,
but I am a person who just so happens to have some knowledge of the members of Team Uno.
If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.
Among them is a capable marine veteran, and with that fact alone, I refuse to believe that
they're lost to us, and within a day at that."
With those words, Joe instilled a sense of determination and purpose in the group, sparking a
renewed resolve to overcome the obstacles that lay ahead, and with that, they all dispersed
and went back out to finish up a few things before they rested.
In just two days of non-stop hustle, they managed to erect a whopping 314 huts, rotating
groups of 250 people per building. It was a sight to behold, a testament to what they could
achieve when they put their minds together and worked as a team. Gemski couldn't help but
grin at the thought of what else they could accomplish in the days to come.
After their two days of exhausting work, everyone needed a break, but the scorching heat left
them dehydrated and in need of water.
For the past few days, Joe had persons collecting morning due with the pieces of clean
garments he had them put aside on their first day, along with the crafted mud and leaf bowls to
store the excess water they gathered. However, As their pieces of garments got dirty and it
was getting harder to collect in the morning due to water that collected in pockets of
surrounding leaves and other crevices, the rate at which they could work had to be decreased
to secure their safety as the day went on.It was starting to become a routine for everyone, wake, hydrate, work till midday, and then
relax out of the sun. And just like it would any other day, all the labour workers gathered their
last bits of collected water and took refuge in the cool shade of the constructed buildings and
under the nearby trees in shifts. A few hours passed, and some were crafting while others were
sleeping.
Then, suddenly, a loud screech shattered the tranquillity. A few seconds after the screech
came, the sound of wolves howling in the distance deep within the forest crescendoed as their
united sounds clashed within the centre of the crater's open air. Without warning, everyone
who was now standing in the mildly constructed open field felt a gust of wind. As the wind
pressure cooled their weary bodies, they instinctively and collectively looked up to see a giant
bird-like dinosaur flying overhead, leaving the majority of people terrified.
As the massive creature soared overhead, its long, pointed beak and sharp teeth glistened in
the sun as it scanned the terrain below for prey. Its wings, like a bird's but made of a thin,
leathery membrane stretched out past its wrist. With each beat of its wings, the surrounding
treetops would bend to the point of breaking as the creature slowly and gracefully flew around
in circles above them.
As General Joe watched the giant monstrosity circle the field and then fly off into the forest, he
couldn't help but worry about the safety of team Uno. They weren't given a return deadline, but
they had an expected return period. It had been two days since they left in search of food and
water. Only a few people realized that the days on the planet were longer than Earth's by six
hours.
The world that they were living in was contained and protected by the volcanos crater, but the
appearance of the monstrous flying creature was a reminder that humans were no longer at the
top of the food chain, and unlike ants, they were trapped twice over by the forest with its
inhabitance, and the tall walls of the volcano's crater.
Joe: "No Fucking way, it's not safe out here. We need to run before it sees us!"
Will: "Do you think we can bring it down and kill it for a source of food, sir?"
Joe: "Stop talking to me before I strangle you. Are you dumb? Did you not see what it's
capable of? It's bigger that a mother fucking plane! The force from the wings of this
pterodactyl-looking monster is altering the life we're trying to build. There's no way we'll be
able to defend against that creature unless we move to the forest or hills and pray that we find
caves."
Will: "But sir, at this point in time, for us to just up and run to the forest after all the work we've
already put in, it doesn't guarantee that we will survive. If the creature is capable of diving
down while we're in the forest, breaking the trees in its path to get to its prey, then what? Plus,
the animals that may lurk within the forest might do more damage to our numbers than the
giant bird might."
Joe: "We are but mere chicken feed to this dinosaur. If we stay and it lands, it will destroy
everything we've managed to construct. Fuck! What if there are more of them? I can only pray
that this isn't some kind of feeding ground for them. We don't have the energy and strength to
fight."
Will: "Well, sir, you got a few options. You and the other generals could have us run to the
dangerous safety of the forest canopy, or you generals could have us hide away within the huts
we've built and avoid the chance of being spotted by other aerial creatures or from the other
random wild animals that could come charging out of the forest at us at any moment, sir."
Joe: "I'm sure no animal would run out here in the open, to be picked off by a predator. Just
like we know to avoid open areas from aerial attacks. These animals probably know best how
to avoid their predators, but going to the forest is definitely not an option for us right now. I canhear the animals surrounding the forest running away from the direction that the monster went.
In case it comes back, we need to come up with a plan, or else push might come to shove."
Feeling uneasy about the situation, General Joe called for the council of 30 to quickly gather to
discuss the issue of a ban on any exploration into the surrounding forest. It wasn't the best
time but, the other Generals agreed with his decision, and they left it up to the council to work
out the details if they survived this encounter.
Joe: We can't just sit here and wait for it to come back. We need a plan of action."
Gemski: "But what options do we have? Our weapons are no match for that... creature. And
going into the forest after it would be suicide."
Lady Vee: "We need to think strategically. Our priority should be to fortify our defenses and
prepare for a potential attack. We'll need barricades, traps—anything to slow it down if it
decides to come back."
Gemski: "And what if it does come back? We can't just rely on primitive tools to fend it off. We
need a contingency plan."
Joe: "Strength in numbers might give us a fighting chance lets put a weapon in everyones
hands."
Gemski: "But what if it's not just one creature? What if there are more out there, waiting to
strike? We can't risk spreading panic among our people, but we need to be prepared for the
worst-case scenario."
Joe: "There is already panic! Theres no way people around here didn't see it. We'll need to
mobilize our forces and establish a perimeter around the settlement. Keep watch day and
night, and be ready to respond at a moment's notice. This is a threat unlike any we've faced
before, and we can't afford to underestimate it."
Gemski "Agreed. Lets put a pause on building construction and get more work done on the
walls and other defences. We may not have the firepower or technology to defeat it outright,
but we can't let fear paralyze us. We must stand united and face this threat head-on, whatever
the cost."
Lady Vee: "Very well. Let's get to work. We have a long day ahead of us, and the safety of our
people depends on our actions."
Before long, word went out that it had been forbidden to enter deep into the woods. There was
a speech sent out about how it was important for the group to prioritize their safety and well-
being, which meant taking precautionary measures to avoid potential dangers. The council
knew that exploration was necessary for survival, and it was equally important to do so
cautiously. It wouldn't be sustainable to restrict the people from the forest's resources, which
led to the council placing a requirement to explore the forest.
Any group seeking permission to hunt or explore needs a minimum of 50 persons. Anything
less would be denied. If this rule was broken, the punishment would be banishment.
A day later, the council presented the new rules to the generals.
Curfew: In order to minimize the risk of encounters with dangerous animals or hostile forces
during the night, a curfew shall be enforced. All residents must return to the safety of the
settlement before nightfall, and anyone found outside without authorization after curfew shall
face consequences.
Escort Requirement: Any individual or group venturing outside the settlement's boundaries
must be accompanied by at least one designated escort trained in wilderness survival and
armed for defence. No one is allowed to travel alone beyond the safety of the settlement.
Resource Management: To ensure the sustainability of the settlement's resources, strict
guidelines shall be established for hunting, fishing, and gathering. Limits on the number andtype of resources that can be harvested in a given period shall be enforced to prevent
overexploitation and environmental degradation.
Emergency Preparedness: Regular drills and training sessions shall be conducted to prepare
residents for emergencies such as animal attacks, natural disasters, or hostile incursions. Each
household shall be required to maintain a designated emergency kit stocked with essential
supplies.
Communication Protocol: A system for signalling distress and communicating urgent
messages shall be established to facilitate coordination and response during emergencies.
Residents must familiarize themselves with the designated signals and procedures for
requesting assistance.
Boundary Marking: Clear markers shall be placed along the perimeter of the settlement to
demarcate the safe zone and deter unauthorized entry. Anyone found attempting to breach the
settlement's boundaries without permission shall be subject to immediate expulsion.
Trade Regulations: All trade and commerce with external parties shall be conducted through
designated channels and subject to approval by the council. Unauthorized trading or bartering
with outsiders shall be considered a punishable offence.
Education and Training: Mandatory education programs shall be implemented to equip
residents with essential survival skills, knowledge of local flora and fauna, and awareness of
potential hazards. Training sessions on weapon use, first aid, and self-defence shall also be
provided to ensure the community's preparedness.
Waste Disposal: Strict guidelines shall be enforced for the disposal of waste and sewage to
prevent contamination of water sources and the spread of disease. Residents must adhere to
designated waste disposal areas and follow proper sanitation practices at all times.
Conflict Resolution: A formal process for resolving disputes and conflicts within the settlement
shall be established, emphasizing mediation, negotiation, and consensus-building. Violence
and aggression shall not be tolerated, and offenders shall be subject to disciplinary action.
Expedition Minimum Requirement: Any group seeking permission to hunt or explore beyond
the settlement's boundaries must consist of a minimum of 50 persons. This requirement
ensures the safety and security of the expedition, as smaller groups may be more vulnerable to
dangers lurking in the forest. Failure to meet this requirement will result in denial of permission,
and if this rule is broken, the punishment would be banishment.
On day 4, Generals Joe and Lady Vee knew that their people wouldn't be able to function in
the heat, especially since they were super dehydrated.
Forming two groups of 50 for a 2-hour exploration, Joe took one group to the north to hunt for
meat while Lady Vee went to the west looking for research material.
Both groups collected similar information about the bugs and small edible plants in the forest,
but a unique discovery was made by a scientist named Bulb Crain, who visited the western
part of the forest. While inspecting a few fallen old trees, he noticed that they naturally
contained carbon fibre. These trees also have a natural resistance to flames, but the most
intriguing aspect of them was that after measuring eight different fallen trees, Bulb found that
once the pit within the trunk reaches a diameter of 12 inches, the tree clips itself at the base
and falls.Bulb was aware that after the harvesting process, they would be able to craft superior hand
tools and weapons. The intention was to construct a storage unit upon their return to
accommodate these items along with other mineral materials.
As the other Generals were away attending to other matters, Gemski took charge of overseeing
a small group of labour workers on the headquarters construction project. Recognizing the
importance of maintaining morale and ensuring the well-being of the main labour force, Gemski
granted them a well-deserved break until the search party returned.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of construction, the settlement's perimeter walls steadily rosed
over the two days, log by log, marking the gradual expansion of their safe haven. The relentless
sound of axes echoed through the air as trees fell, one by one, pushing back the encroaching
forest on all sides. With each tree felled, the settlement's boundaries expanded, creating a
buffer zone between the safety of their homes and the dangers lurking beyond.
Gemski's watchful eye ensured that progress continued smoothly; there was no way he was
going to let things go as badly as before. That way of doing things got people killed. With the
weight of responsibility heavy on his shoulders and the fate of the settlement resting in his
hands, he resolved to leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and prosperity of his
people. Alone or not, Gemski was determined to uphold his duty and see his plans for the
settlement's sustenance through to fruition. The stakes were too high, and failure was not an
option.
Gemski: Will! Where the hell are you? Get over here and give me a hand to prepare these
material!
Will: Right here, sir. I'm coming. What's up, sir?
Gemski: Why the stiff demeanour? You're like a robot on autopilot. Lighten up, man. I almost
mistook you for a drive-through attendant. I almost ordered a happy meal. Your energy reminds
me of a drive-through.
Will: HAHA. Sorry, sir. Not funny, but I'll try to tone it down and be an average dick.
Gemski: Wooo, Willy Will. That's the spirit! But keep that Big Will energy in your pants. But
seriously, let's have a chat as we work. Can you imagine that only five days ago, we were on
Earth welcoming the New Year, the dawn of hope, they say? Yet, as the sands of time flow ever
onward, we find ourselves standing, all 3000 of us, amidst the echoes of memories. I've been
thinking about what it means to leave behind the old and embrace the new."
Will: Yeah, it's got me reflecting too. Especially with our family and loved ones who are no
longer here to celebrate with us.
Gemski: Exactly. It's like we're caught between two worlds—the past with all its memories and
the future filled with unknown possibilities.
Will: Sometimes it feels like we're carrying the weight of the old world on our shoulders, you
know? But at the same time, there's this longing to start fresh, to leave it all behind and begin
anew.
Gemski: That's the paradox of it all, isn't it? We're drawn to the familiarity of the past, yet we
yearn for the promise of the future. It's like we're the only ones able to love in a loveless world,
carrying the torch of hope and renewal.Will: Yeah, it's like we're the guardians of something sacred, preserving the essence of love and
connection amidst the chaos of change. I've heard Lady Vee talk about her God being
responsible for brining us here and I'm starting to believe that. Because technology like this
has to be the biggest change in our understanding to evolve.
Gemski: Precisely. And as we step into the unknown, we carry with us the wisdom of our
experiences and the strength of our resilience. In letting go of the old, we create space for new
beginnings and the possibility of greater fulfilment. But at the end of it all, I'm still disappointed
at life, this distance from home. Why? Because the only memories that are constantly in my
head are from the late hours of New Year. The way I was getting my dick sucked by two crazy
high-on LSD demons that were swelling the mushroom of my dick across all the colours
among the spectrum. My toes were curling; my mouth was watering, and that space between
my balls and my asshole was quivering right till the moment my glan erupted with their
skincare!
Will: Sir!
Gemski: Sorry, you're right! Let me get serious and get to the point. Could you do me a favour,
Will? I am getting a feeling about something, and I need your help.
Will: Anything, sir, once it's not illegal. Plus, why are you moving your lips like that, sir?
Gemski was being cautious. As a skilled lip reader, he knew all too well the dangers of letting
slip even the slightest hint of information. He was acutely aware that he wasn't the only one
with this talent, and one of the other Generals possessed an uncanny sense of hearing, and
there were probably others among the 3000 with the skill. Despite the risk, Gemski was
prepared to contort his lips and twist his words if it meant slowing the spread of information,
even if it made him appear foolish in the process.
Gemski: Willy, my Boy. Everything here is legal until we establish those rules, and for now, only
the council's nine rules stand. It's a glaring oversight that needs to be corrected soon, but
within that mistake lies the potential for humanity's awakening. Just as in the garden, where
disobedience birthed sin, and a brother became human before he became a man. But I want
you to keep an eye on the group of star-watching scientists. I didn't personally hear it, but
rumours suggest they know something about our whereabouts.
Will: Sir? What do you mean they know something? If they did, then they would have said
something. This would have been a piece of cake if we still had our implants. Forced mind
reads would clear those secrets right up, especially if it wouldn't be illegal here.
How advanced are the creatures that brought us here? The implants at our age have fused with
our minds, so to remove them means death of the body and mind, but yet here we are. Some
of my childhood injuries are gone, and yet I feel like I'm losing my identity because of these
changes. It feels too good to be my body. I get turned on from time to time, thinking about
mirrors to see my body. This feeling is so. It's so. I can't find the simple word to best describe
it.
Gemski: Almost as if your mind is trying to reject your body in a slow and slivering way?
Will: Yeah, and these long days are starting to feel like short days as if my mind is tapping into
the wavelength of the rotation of the planet. Is this what they call adapting, sir? Its weird to see
and hear of people saying the got new bodies, fit bodies and others with big bodies saying
they could do more.Their conversation preceded throughout the day as they worked and as the conversation was
begin to come to its end and the work was slowing that and before Gemski could reply, the two
Generals' emerged from the northwest part of the forest carrying baskets and branches of
fruits and things resembling meat.
Just as they cleared the forest canopy, the sound of birds in the air screeching had quickly
silenced that section of the crater, and then came a distant wind which steadily grew stronger
the closer the screeches came to the settlement. Frightened and panicked, everyone rushed
towards the huts for shelter. However, this time, only the three Generals remained unaffected
by the bird's cry.
They knew what time it was, and they were well aware of the situation at hand. as the leaders
of this new world, they couldn't afford to be scared. Initially, they referred to the pterodactyl-
looking dinosaur as the "Big Monster Bird," but that name just didn't have the right ring to it.
Ever so often the the birds would dive into the forest canopy and some hunters with trying to
factoring some stats and dater. After receiving reports on its its estimated size, the council
settled on the name "Launch Bird when all was said and done."
As chaos ensued, some fled in a frantic panic while a few stood their ground, steering off in the
direction of the screeching as the figure in the distance emerged from the treetops over and
over again, almost as if it was swimming the butterfly stroke. The creature bore a striking
resemblance to a phoenix, with flames dancing on its body. But what caught their attention
even more was the colossal object it held in its grasp.
As it flitted through the air of the open field, the creature would occasionally collide with the
surrounding trees abruptly. And thats when General Vee, who was closely observing its actions
closely, realized that it was attempting to extinguish the flames on its body rather than creating
them.
The strength of the creature's attacker in the forest was evident. Judging by the object it was
carrying, it must be valuable enough for it to risk its life to attain. Despite being engulfed in
flames, the launch bird was fortunate enough to have its flames extinguished by slamming
itself through the trees. But what could have caused a native animal to react and be that
damaged? This forest was certainly not nice. And was definitely unruly.
Suddenly, a group of nine smaller birds emerged from the nearby trees and launched an attack
on the gigantic launch bird. "Were these tiny birds the cause of all this mayhem to the large
bird? General Vee thought. She found it perplexing that the giant bird didn't retaliate or attempt
to fly higher, and she needed clarification on this matter.
As the battle unfolded, these animals fought tooth and nail. With its massive wingspan, the
launch bird took to the skies to shake off the smaller birds that had launched an attack. With a
powerful flap of its wings, it created a gust of wind that blew the smaller birds away. But just as
the giant bird thought it had gained the upper hand, some of the relentless birds locked their
talons onto its skin and wings, causing it to falter mid-flight.
The launch bird's eyes widened with alarm as it struggled to maintain altitude, with the smaller
birds clinging onto its body. With each flap of its wings, it strained to break free from their grip.
But the smaller birds were determined to succeed in their attack and held on tight, causing the
launch bird to fly erratically above the open field.
The sounds of screeching and flapping filled the air as these birds battled it out. The launch
bird's massive form contrasted with the smaller birds' nimble movements as they darted
around it, trying to find the perfect angle to strike. It was a battle of strength and endurance,
and only time would tell who would come out victorious in the end.Out of nowhere, three birds broke away from the tangle of fighting birds and hovered a few feet
away, biding their time. Without warning, they dived down with incredible speed, their sharp
talons aimed at the six birds still clinging onto the launch bird.
The sudden attack caught everyone off guard, everyone but the smaller birds that were
attacked. The launch bird was struggling, frantically trying to evade the incoming assault. But it
was too late. The three diving birds which delivered the devastating blows left the birds
maimed.
As if it was a strike of a match, the six birds exploded on their target with an intense fire, which
caused the air to shimmer. As the fire burned and spread along the body of the launch bird, the
few who watched from below stood in amazement.
Now that the smoke from the remains of the smaller birds was out of the way, the three
attacking birds extended their wings and created some distance, and their attention was never
wavering from the launch bird.
Without any hesitation, the three birds flew back in for the attack, their talons primed and ready
to strike.
As the Birds continued their intense battle, the object that the launch bird was clutching
slipped from its grip and plummeted to the ground below.
BOOM!
General Joe, who had been closely monitoring the situation, immediately sprang into action.
He signalled to the other two generals. "Get the hunters and some men together and prepare
to retrieve the fallen object, and be at the ready to fight that thing if it gets to close the
settlement buildings." The animals were too preoccupied with their fight to notice the humans'
movements, providing an opportune moment for the retrieval team.
Lady Vee, who had been closely watching the birds and the many fearless people standing in
the fields with sticks, stones and spears at the ready, devised a plan of her own. She wanted to
take part in the Lords game but she also needed to study these creatures so she would do
what it took for the specimens.
Gemski called on capable men and women to help secure the object. Lady Vee could only
think of one place for it to fit. And it was in the basement that wasn't yet covered over. With
preparation almost over, Vee directed the teams to take the object to the military headquarters,
where they could study it in detail and figure out why the birds were so intent on obtaining it.
If they could manage to get the object to the headquarters, then she could have the object
hidden deep within the foundation of the headquarters and carefully covered to avoid detection
by any curious birds.
With the object safely in their possession, Lady Vee could now focus on uncovering its secrets
and using that knowledge to gain an advantage in their battle for survival.
The retrieval team hurried over to the fallen object, which appeared to be a colossal jelly-like
sack filled with fluid. However, upon trying to lift it, they quickly realized the futility of their
efforts. It was simply too massive and bulky to move, even with a large group of people.
Faced with this dilemma, they decided to take a different approach and attempted to drag the
base of the plant back to their campsite.
A few minutes into dragging the plant base, they discovered a new problem: numerous thin
roots had grown off the base and were now entangling their feet and making it difficult to
move.Amidst the grunts and groans of the workers, complaints started to arise about the tangled
roots causing additional complications. But they persevered, inching the massive sack along
the ground, leaving a trail of crushed vegetation in their wake. It was slow, arduous work, but
they were determined to get the object back to their base and unlock its secrets. And the birds
were too distracted with the enemy at hand.
As the retrieval team dragged the massive sack closer to their headquarters, they suddenly
started to notice something strange happening. People were collapsing, some even passing
out, and the air was thick with the acrid smell of decay. It was clear that something was
seriously wrong.
In a panic, people came out of their huts to help drag the fallen back to safety and cover.
Rushing to the aid of their fallen comrades, they discovered that the thin roots of the plant were
tightly wrapped around their limbs, breaking their skin and draining the water from their bodies.
It was as if the plant was actively trying to absorb their life force.
Quickly, those who had not yet been affected by the roots sprang into action, cutting the roots
free from the injured and attempting to keep them awake.
General Vee surveyed the situation. The birds were still fighting intensely, but the sack of jelly
was driving her intuition crazy.
In a display of quick thinking and leadership, General Vee instructed everyone hiding within the
huts to construct large baskets capable of holding water and be ready to make an assault. "If
the birds are gone by sunset, take the empty baskets along with the weak and sick to the large
jelly sack and await instructions. If it's fluids in truth, then those are the people who would need
it most, then the labor workers after."
As the launch bird crashed to the ground with fiery breath and wounds in its wings and belly,
General Joe saw an opportunity to feed the settlement for days to come. "Get him, boys!"
With a stone hammer in one hand and a carbon fibre spear in the other, he charged towards
the weakened bird, followed by others wielding makeshift weapons. They were like stones to a
giant's shoes.
It was no easy task striking at the gigantic bird, which was burning and flailing around like a
fish out of water. But they felt it necessary to take down the creature to sustain their
community.
"The tons of meat that would come from the launch bird would probably be 450 tons, including
the bones," Joe shouted. "Meat alone, if preserved well, could last 600 days if needs be, at 0.5
pounds per day and all 3000 people could eat. But realistically, this food could only last 3
months, and we can't leave the flesh exposed. The wall isn't completed, and animals will be
drawn to the smell if not already."
"Load the traps, the nets, the bows, and aim where it is already hurting," Joe commanded.
"The rest of us will hit it in the sensitive areas. The small birds are smart enough to let us help
without attacking us, so it's clear to see and recognize their intelligence."
"We need to attack in groups at different areas! Avoid the tail and make sure the damaged wing
is unusable," Joe strategized. "Bring the blockades and place them to prevent the tail from
swinging back on the wing!"
"Hurry and get the rope over it and pull! Let's create an opening for the hunters to clip the
arteries and tendons to limit its mobility," Lady Vee directed.
A voice chimed in, "Sirs, the bird's attacks are indiscriminately damaging the rope! We can only
effectively keep it still for a few seconds at most.""That's more than enough time!" Joe exclaimed. "The small birds are doing more damage than
our weapons, so let's try to get at the neck and eyes."
"Don't be dumb, Joe!" Gemski interjected. "Ranged attack at the head only. Don't you dear get
close to that attack area. Leave that to the birds, they are faster and stronger. If we get any
closer to the head, we will get eaten or worst injured. Life is our greatest resource, remember!"
"Men! Pull!" Joe commanded. "The birds seem to be easing up their attacks. We might be
doing this alone, so get ready to be focused on! We can't let it squirm its way to the living
quarters. Just watch out for the tail and head and open this son of a bitch up! This is the
reward for all your hard work these past 5 days! PULL! PULL! PULL!"
As they pulled on the ropes from either side and the hunters scaled its body, the men
responsible for the blockade endured a beating that would undoubtedly result in CTE.
The launch bird stood and spun around, the men holding onto the rope now grasping for dear
life. The hunters clung to their carbon weapons, impaled within the beast's flesh.
"Aim for the eyes now! I have a bad feeling about this! Throw your spears at it!" Lady Vee
shouted over the chaos.
"Get off its back! Release the ropes! NOW!" Joe's voice boomed.
The giant launch bird, despite its injuries, jumped into the air and landed on its back, killing
three hunters. It quickly got up and swiped at the blockade. Though they handled the first
attack, the tail swipe proved too much for them. As their formation started to break down, Joe
charged towards the head of the launch bird, and Lady Vee followed his lead by running toward
its tangled legs.
Gemski, observing from a distance, noticed that the skin which made up its wings was
completely gone. Not from the damage done to it, but almost as if it shed the skin that made
up its wing. Watching carefully as Vee attacked the legs, throwing the bird's attack timing off
and creating an opening for Joe's axe to land on its face. However, the launch bird was acting
differently. Its wings now resembled long arms, gripping the ground, as were the talons on its
feet.
Because they were so close to Launch Bird, Joe and Vee weren't aware of the transformation
that was taking place. But if they tried to retreat now, they wouldn't be able to avoid any
attacks without a proper distraction. And nothing was going to distract it from focusing on the
creatures injuring it.
"Gen's something big is coming, and you can't avoid it. Everyone move back! Get your spears
ready! We might not survive this! Even the birds are leaving after watching all this time,"
Gemski warned.
There was a chill followed by a low whistle. As the abdomen of the launch bird inflated, the
skin-like feathers on its body stood at attention, and it gave a loud screech. The sound and
force of air from its mouth were like a high-pressure wind cutter, leaving everyone stunned
except Lady Vee and Joe.
With his spear, Joe aimed for the neck once again, and Vee aimed for the dangling jewels. That
last strike being the icing on the cake.
Luckily, the launch bird's head wasn't aimed at the settlement. With Joe's spear restricting the
airflow to its throat and Vee's strike compounding its injuries, the launch bird used up all its
energy and couldn't find the strength to move, let alone breathe.
The giant bird collapsed to the ground, its massive form quivering with the last vestiges of life.
The settlers stood around it, panting and exhausted from the intense battle. Joe and Vee
approached cautiously, their weapons still at the ready in case the bird made one last
desperate attack.Gemski, observing from a distance, approached slowly, his eyes scanning the creature for any
signs of movement. But it was clear that the launch bird had breathed its last.
As the settlers caught their breath and tended to their wounded, Gemski couldn't shake the
feeling of unease. There was something unnatural about the transformation the launch bird had
undergone, and he feared it was just the beginning of their troubles.
"Everyone, be on high alert," Gemski announced, his voice carrying across the settlement.
"We've defeated one enemy today, but there may be more lurking in the shadows. Stay vigilant
and watchful. Our survival depends on it. Most of his words fell on deaf ears due to the launch
birds final attack, most of people that took part in the battle temporally lost their hearing."
After a gruelling fight, they finally managed to halt the bird's activities, in which case General
Joe didn't hesitate to call for the hunters and chefs to help clean, butcher, and prepare it as
food. With that, the settlers began the grim task of butchering the launch bird, harvesting its
meat and bones to sustain them in the days to come. It was a bittersweet victory, tinged with
the knowledge that their struggle was far from over.
But as they worked together to divide the spoils of their hard-fought battle, there was a sense
of camaraderie and unity among them. They had faced a formidable foe and emerged
victorious, proving that they were capable of overcoming even the greatest of challenges.
This resource is a gift from Lady Vee's God, so we better make sure we use every part of it.
The burns on the launch bird are pretty extensive, so as we process it further, take the
opportunity to study its makeup. I suggest finding a way to age the meat, but I'll defer to the
skilled chiefs and hunters in this field."
His gaze swept over the assembly, his expression serious. "There's no need to baby you," he
continued, his tone matter-of-fact. "You're capable humans who might know more than me.
Cut a piece off for yourselves as much as you need and leave the rest to be prepared and
stored."
Joe's eyes hardened as he addressed the disposal of the remaining meat. "We can't eat it all,
and we need to dispose of it properly," he emphasized. "Far away from the settlement, or at
most toward the farthest corner of the field. Perhaps we can use this meat to observe any
other native animals within the forest and help create a database. But we can't risk this place
becoming a feeding ground. We have to get the wall completed!
Joe's voice softened slightly as he reviewed the battle in his head, his words carrying a weight
of solemnity and gratitude. "Eat, fuck, and sleep, my friends," he said, his tone reflecting a
blend of exhaustion and reverence. "You've done good today. But as we celebrate our victory,
let us not forget the three hunters who gave their lives for our cause. Tomorrow, and every day
thereafter, let us live with gratitude, honouring the sacrifice they made to ensure our survival
and the continuation of humanity."
With those words, Joe concluded, leaving the settlers to carry out their tasks with a renewed
sense of purpose and gratitude.
Later that evening, the scientists tasked with examining the fluid-filled jelly sack made a
significant discovery. Contrary to their initial concerns, the jelly contained no traces of poison.
Instead, it was comprised of 80% water, with the remaining 20% containing essential vitamins
and protein. While their assessment was primarily based on taste and texture, the tangy yet
bitter flavour provided enough indication of its nutritional value.
Upon receiving this news, Lady Vee wasted no time in granting the settlers permission to
collect the jelly fluid. With a sense of urgency, she instructed them to fill their crafted baskets
and bowls, emphasizing the importance of hydration and survival. As the settlers eagerlygathered the precious fluid, Lady Vee's directive echoed in their minds, serving as a reminder
of the harsh reality they faced and the necessity of resourcefulness in their struggle to endure.