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Chronicles of Metem. A battle for survival.
Chapter 3. Chronicles of Metem: First Win.

Chapter 3. Chronicles of Metem: First Win.

First Win.

Chapter 3.

With each passing day, since the arrival of humankind upon this foreign soil, they have

engaged in a relentless struggle against the relentless odds that threatened to engulf them.

Relentlessly. Yet, in the face of ceaseless uncertainty, they have endured, seeking solace in

their unwavering commitment to the preservation of their kind.

In the wake of their recent triumph, the human settlement blossomed with newfound life,

having survived the first true trial hurled at them by this unforgiving planet. They had secured

shelter, established order, procured sustenance and Drinkable fluids, and now they had

vanquished a formidable native predator.

In the halls of governance, the Council of Thirty convened, their minds burdened by the weight

of responsibility. Over the course of four gruelling days, they painstakingly gathered information

and reports, assessing the unfolding events with utmost seriousness. The time had come for a

momentous meeting, one that would shape the destiny of this fledgling society.

Fuelled by the influx of food resources, the council forged the Essential Services Department,

appointing two exceptional individuals to lead it:

Hambone, seat number 17, the head of agriculture, and Issa, seat number 8, the Head Chef.

Both had demonstrated remarkable skills, unfathomable knowledge, and unyielding bravery

throughout the perilous 50-group team expedition into the uncharted depths of the western

and northern forests.

As the council members took their seats, the room echoed with the gravity of their purpose.

This was not a gathering for idle discourse or inconsequential matters; this was a symposium

of statesmanship, a congregation of leaders bound by their shared commitment to the survival

and prosperity of their people. The council members exchanged sombre glances, each acutely

aware of the task at hand.

Council Member Aki, seat number 20, head of data collection, rose from his newly crafted

chair, his voice steady and resonant, carrying the weight of experience and wisdom.

"Esteemed council members, today we stand at a pivotal juncture in our collective history, I’m

going to do things in a formal way, because when the history books are made, I want it to be

known that we did that shit right.” he began, his words piercing the silence. "The trials we have

faced thus far have tested our mettle and resilience, but it is now time to solidify the

foundations of our society.”

He gestured toward Hambone and Issa, the stalwart figures flanking him. "The Essential

Services Department, born out of our recent triumph, shall become the vanguard of our

sustenance and nourishment.

Head Farmer Hambone and Head Chef Issa have proven themselves invaluable through their

unwavering dedication. It is upon their capable shoulders that we entrust the vital task of

ensuring our survival in this untamed realm by filling our belly with delicious food.

Shit! We had pleasure to taste that launch bird they have been cooking none stop and I can’t

believe the quality of food and flavour they are managing to pull in this primitive landscape!”The council members nodded in solemn agreement, recognizing the significance of this

appointment. The weight of responsibility settled on Hambone and Issa's shoulders, their

expressions a blend of determination and humility.

"The challenges ahead may be formidable," Aki continued, his voice unwavering. "We stand

united, facing an uncertain future with unwavering resolve. Let us summon the spirit of

camaraderie that has carried us through our darkest hours and forge a society that will endure

the test of time. May our actions today pave the path to a prosperous and harmonious

existence on this alien land."

With these words, the Council member concluded his address, his voice echoing in the still

renovating chamber of their headquarters.

Vladimir: Welcome, esteemed members, to the M three O meeting. I am Vladimir, occupying

seat number 12.

Before we go on, I would like to thank Aki for providing the information we will be discussing

today. To be mindful of everyone's time, let us delve into the critical matters at hand.

First on the agenda is the distressing disappearance of Team Uno and the subsequent rescue

efforts. We cannot ignore this unfortunate incident. Following that, we will briefly touch on the

boom in Labour work and craft projects. Believe it or not, these are crucial aspects that require

our attention. Additionally, we must discuss the establishment of a marketplace for resource

acquisition and bartering, including the consideration of a currency system.

Next is the combat and survival knowledge, it remains paramount, and we must address

strategies for enhancing our proficiency in these areas.

Since team Uno's disappearance, resource gathering has been an ongoing concern and has

slowed down development due to the lack of exploration. We must find a way to recorrect the

restriction that was placed.

The main topics we need to address at this meeting of 30 are the discovery found at the HQ

Foundation, as well as the advancements made in the West and North forest, which should be

acknowledged.

Furthermore, we need to discuss our plans to expand deeper into the forest and determine the

direction of our overall strategy. If we can't overcome this crater ecosystem, then we have no

business wanting to explore the outside walls.

Now about Team Uno's disappearance. Regrettably, our naivety led to their deployment into

the wilds of an alien planet. A pointless sacrifice and a failure of responsibility on our part.

If we expect others to sacrifice their lives for humanity, should we not put forth every effort to

protect humanity itself? It has been a week since their vanishing, and while public discussions

on the matter may be constrained, emotions are reaching dangerous levels in private. We must

take decisive action to ascertain their fate.

Tara: Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Tara, seat number 5, head of Education and its

distribution.

To add my voice to this concern, Vladimir speaks the truth. The people's frustration is growing

exponentially due to the lack of progress in locating our missing comrades. While they

comprehend the risks and challenges, they find it difficult to accept the situation. The

measures in place to prevent further casualties are necessary but are simultaneously hindering

our ability to function efficiently or conduct comprehensive search and rescue operations.Joe: Do we have time for this? This could have been the last thing we talked about. I share

your apprehensions. The disappearance of Team Uno is a grave matter that demands

immediate attention. However, we must exercise caution and avoid hasty rescue attempts that

may place more lives in jeopardy. The lives of each individual on this planet are our most

valuable resource—more precious than anything else. Never forget that.

Lady Vee: All lives matter, even God's loving creatures. Never forget that!

Vladimir: Generals, we understand the risks involved, but we cannot simply stand by and wait.

Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author's consent. Report any sightings.

We propose organizing a well-equipped search team to venture into the jungle and gather any

possible evidence of Team Uno's status. When we find a way back to Earth, their families will

deserve answers, and we as a people need closure.

Tara: With all due respect, sir! after extensive evaluations, we have capable individuals who are

willing to volunteer for the search mission. What happened with Team Uno will not happen

again. While they may lack specific skills and knowledge of jungle survival on this planet, their

determination and loyalty can compensate for that. The skill must be transferable at the end of

the day. We can't afford to let fear and uncertainty paralyze us. The rule only cover - Curfew,

Escort Requirement, Resource Management, Emergency Preparedness, Communication

Protocol, Boundary Marking, Education and Training, Waste Disposal, Expedition Minimum

Requirement. If we follow the rules we could be out their by his afternoon, but we would need

the combine support of everyone.

Lady Vee: We appreciate your concern for the missing team, but we cannot ignore the reality of

our limitations. Sending ill-prepared personnel into the treacherous jungle without proper

training would be a grave mistake. We must approach this with caution and prioritize the safety

of our people. Outside of Team Uno, only two groups have entered into the forest since, and

we managed to suffer no deaths, but several persons were injured, while others had mental

strains and came down with alien sickness.

Tara: Sir, we understand the risks involved, but we firmly believe that with the right guidance

and support, we can mount a successful search operation. We request the assistance of

experienced trackers and survival experts to accompany our team. Their expertise will ensure

our safety and increase the chances of locating any trace of Team Uno.

Gemski: With the extensive evaluations you've done, didn't you find any qualified persons?

Tara: WE DID, SIR! But they will not commit without the accompany of the three Generals.

Gemski: Listen, this is a topic we must get back to at a later date. The skills it would take to

launch a successful retrieval of team Uno is impossible right now. We have no information to

build on. How far does the forest stretch back to the mountains in the distance? Which

direction did the team go or wonder off if they are lost?

Vladimir: Generals, we hear what you are saying and we are not asking you to send a team out

today by reconsider giving this some more thought. The group of 100 people I govern over are

suffering, and the morale is deteriorating rapidly. Taking action will not only provide closure but

also restore faith in our leadership. We cannot afford to let doubt and anxiety linger within the

hearts of the people.

Joe: I can comprehend this situation's emotional toll on the people. But get a better grip of

them. If the have time to cry and be sad that means they are not working hard enough! We

don’t have time for this! I have Training to plan! We will take your concerns into consideration

and reassess the feasibility of a limited search operation.

However, I must stress that the safety and well-being of our personnel are paramount.

But first, I need you to comprehend the gravely perilous nature of the forest around us. If we

could compare it to the Amazon forest, this is a realm of untamed wilderness where survivalteeters on the edge of a knife. The risks involved in organizing a team to rescue team Uno are

daunting, and I must impress upon you the dire statistics that underscore the harrowing reality

we face."

He paused, his eyes panning across the 27 people before him, searching for a flicker of

understanding.

"Think of the surrounding forest as if it was the Amazon. The Amazon forest is a merciless

adversary. Within its depths, over 2,000 species of venomous snakes alone slither, waiting to

deliver deadly strikes around every tree, bush, and rock. Every step is a gamble, a dance with

the serpents of fate."

The General's voice grew sombre. His words weighed down with the weight of their

implications.

"The density of the foliage engulfs all who enter, a labyrinth of towering trees and impenetrable

undergrowth. Even the most experienced navigators find themselves disoriented, losing their

way amidst nature's chaotic tapestry."

His gaze turned distant as if he could see the shadows of the forest encroaching upon his

thoughts.

"And then there are the apex predators. On Earth, we had to deal with predators such as

Jaguars, pumas, and cunning hunters that roam freely. But in case you forgot! The native

predators are aliens never seen by us before. They could be invisible. They could be rocks.

They could even be trees! How would we ever know what is what before it's too late? The

predators in the Amazon have claimed the lives of many who ventured too far into their realm.

Their hunger knows no bounds, and you want to take going into the forest lightly? We made a

mistake the first time, sending the five men who made up team Uno to their deaths

unprepared, but we will not make that mistake again!”

A shudder ran through the General's body as he contemplated the dangers that awaited.

"Let us not forget the silent assassins that lurk in the shadows, invisible yet deadly. Malaria,

dengue fever, and a host of other diseases haunt the Amazon, striking swiftly and mercilessly,

leaving little chance for survival without immediate medical aid.”

Tara: General, it’s not that I don’t see the danger or i’m just ignoring what you’ve said so far.

The people need to know that we would put our lives on the line if they went out into the forest

and didn’t come back. If the managed to survive in the forest, how long should they persevere

know that help was on the way sir. I’m not going to keep trying to get you to understand his

simple fact! But since I said my piece and you your. Thank you for your understanding and

willingness to reconsider the situation. We truly appreciate your future support to the rescue of

Team Uno. However, we must approach this mission with caution and thorough preparation to

ensure the safety of all involved.

Joe: Safety must be our top priority throughout the entire process. Team Uno is either dead or

alive. If they are dead, let the dead burry the dead. If they are not then they are the heroes of

humanity. We cannot afford to take unnecessary risks that may endanger more lives. We have

food, water, fire, shelter. We are stacked like the avatar, possessing these survival elements. Let

us proceed with the utmost care and caution, keeping the well-being of our people at the

forefront of our actions. The only reason we would need to venture into the forest it studying

and identify the inhabitance or said forest and how to navigate it.

Harry: Fuck it! Lets moving on to the next important topic, I'm Harry, seat number 9, and head

of Healthcare.

As our settlement grows, we need to address the labour situation. Within four days, we

constructed over three hundred wooden homes while running on empty. The extended days

and nights have been greatly affecting the psyche of the people who are trying to do their part

and not get ostracized in the process.Since the restrictions and the abandonment of team Uno, the people have been trying to give it

their all, and after filling their bellies with food for these two days, the people have all shifted

their outlook. Recently, there has been a noticeable decline in maximum output as people are

starting to focus more on personal pursuits. Some indulge in sexual activities wherever and

whenever possible, while others take up craft projects during their free time. This is

understandable, but it also means that we need to find a balance and prevent them from

burnout within their personal pursuits.

I propose the next venture should be establishing a marketplace where people can exchange

their goods, skills, and knowledge, providing an alternative way for them to contribute to the

settlement without overexerting themselves. Additionally, if we introduce a currency system, it

can create incentives and boost productivity.

Gemski: I'm confident in my team of engineers, and we have already been working on plans for

a marketplace with "Bee one forty-five", seat number 7, head of trade and bartering. Our goal

is to create a designated area in the northern part of the settlement where individuals can

showcase their crafts and skills. The collaboration will also depend on the council members of

Seat 4, head of Toolmaking. Seat 5, head of Education. Seat 6, head of Crafting. Seat 8, head

of Food Production. Seat 11, head of Animal Domestication. Seat 12, head of Resource

Exploration. Seat 14, head of Metallurgy. Seat 17, head of Agriculture, and seat 19, head of

Discovery Development. Also, Lady Vee, with your personal research department, we value

your input. We will love to work closely with you to make this marketplace a reality, considering

all necessary factors for its success.

Lady Vee: I understand, General Gemski. However, it would be best for the development team

to remain on the south side of the field where my research is conducted. If that's okay, then we

can do work together.

Harry: Understood. We will ensure that the development team coordinates with you

accordingly. But before we move on, I need to address a pressing issue."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over the gathered individuals, before continuing with a sense of

gravity. "The number of sick and injured among us is steadily increasing," he stated, his voice

tinged with sombreness. "In a primitive world such as ours, sickness is akin to death. We must

be vigilant with everything and everyone we come in contact with.”

Harry's expression tightened as he delved into the specifics of their predicament. "The jell plant

itself was unique in its ability to invade the body of its host to absorb water," he explained, his

words laden with concern. "But what if we encounter another type of jell plant that absorbs

iron, calcium, or sodium? That could put us in a compromising situation."

He recounted the symptoms plaguing their community, his voice tinged with frustration. "We

have individuals hallucinating, experiencing blackouts, memory loss, and becoming

emotionally unstable," he listed, his tone growing increasingly urgent. "And there is no

explanation as to why. Ayforce mentioned picking up some vibe from some of them, but mystic

beliefs hold no weight here. Furthermore, there have been incidents where individuals have

been petrified, yet the facts surrounding these occurrences remain elusive.”

Harry's words hung in the air, a stark reminder of the harsh realities they faced. "I need you all

to understand," he emphasized, his voice firm. "In this environment, a simple cut could be as

dire as needing surgery. A mere cold could result in the loss of an eye. Even an allergic reaction

could be as severe as internal bleeding, simply because we lack the tools and equipment to

properly address these challenges.”

Joe: Well, thats a lot but a little sweat and training could burn some of those ailments away, I’m

pretty sure I was hallucinating after getting back from the expedition, and all I did was meditateand focus and I was back in training shape. But let's get on with it. We've been here for quite

some time.

Raven: General Joe, I'm Raven, seat number 15, head of Legal Services.

I've heard rumours about your work on combat defence and survival knowledge. Can you

provide some insight into this?

Joe: Yes, indeed! I've been working on a program along with London, seat 10, the head of

Survival training. This program has the potential to enhance our survival capabilities

significantly, and.

Before Joe could elaborate further, Raven interjected, cutting him off.

Raven: I just realize this could be a conversation we could have at the end of the important

topics. To save time, we will postpone the discussion of Joe's little wrestling program and any

topic of Resource Gathering for another occasion.

Joe: But why can't we discuss it now?

Raven: General, as you have expressed earlier, this meeting is affecting your ability to attend to

other more pressing matters. As the council, we will find a way to address your concerns if

there is any time. However, let us prioritize the remaining crucial topics before concluding this

meeting.

Tara: Indeed, sirs. During the excavation of the pit beneath the HQ, we encountered a peculiar

gas at a depth of 11 feet. The gas exhibited unique characteristics that warrant further

investigation. It was nearly imperceptible, lacking discernible toxicity or flammability, and

devoid of any discernible odour. However, it emitted a distinct red-tinted luminescence within

the surrounding shadows. Our initial expertise and visual analysis suggest that this gas may

possess unusual properties related to energy transfer and molecular reactivity.

Joe: What the fuck does that mean?

Lady Vee: Our researchers, despite limited resources, diligently studied the gas's behaviour.

We observed intriguing phenomena associated with exposure to the gas. Withdrawal from the

gas resulted in a curious three-hour period of skin calcification, rendering the outer layer as

dense and resilient as a brick before gradually deteriorating into a brittle state. This process

appears to involve unique molecular transformations and could provide valuable insights into

potential applications in materials science.

Vest: That's a pretty interesting find. I'm interested.

Joe: So, are you going to introduce yourself, sir?

Vest: Nope, No need for that. Please carry on.

Tara: Furthermore, following the gas discovery, we continued the excavation till our workers

encountered a large enigmatic root that produced a warmth upon touch. In their reports, they

claimed to have heard audible sounds akin to fluid flow emanating from within the root itself.

Preliminary examinations indicate that the root possesses a remarkable heat transfer

mechanism and may serve as a conduit for the transport of fluids or other substances.

However, this raises an intriguing question regarding the existence of subterranean networks or

biological mechanisms unknown to us.

This topic in particular stirred up quite a fuss among the 30 who wanted to know more, and the

dangers that might follow this discovery.

"In terms of health," Tara suggested, "we could explore the potential medicinal properties of

the gas and root. Perhaps the unique molecular transformations observed in the gas could be

harnessed to develop new treatments for common ailments or injuries."

Lady Vee nodded in agreement. "Additionally," she added, "we could investigate the root's

heat transfer mechanisms to improve our heating systems during colder seasons. This could

enhance the comfort and well-being of our community while reducing energy consumption."Vest chimed in, his mind already racing with possibilities. "From a defensive standpoint," he

proposed, "we could use the gas to create non-lethal deterrents to repel potential threats. Its

unique properties could disorient or incapacitate intruders, providing us with a strategic

advantage in safeguarding our perimeter.”

With a shared sense of purpose, the settlers began brainstorming practical ways to implement

these ideas. They recognized the importance of capitalizing on their discoveries to improve the

health, defence, and overall resilience of their settlement.