Inside the UN Headquarters in New York, a tense atmosphere filled the room as delegates from around the world gathered to discuss the enigmatic rift in the North Atlantic. The conversation revolved around the unmanned probing missions to the other side of the rift, as no data had been received from the Flying Dutchman or any other manned expeditionary force.
A delegate representing a coastal nation addressed the assembly, his voice measured but tinged with concern. "Ladies and gentlemen, for three years, we've been launching unmanned probes into the rift, and the data we've received has raised more questions than answers. The creatures we've encountered, the shifting landscapes—it's unlike anything we've ever seen."
Another delegate, known for his expertise in deep-sea exploration, added, "Our probes have ventured into the depths of the rift, but we've barely scratched the surface of its mysteries. The geological formations, the unique marine life—it defies explanation."
A scientist from a leading research institution spoke up, her expression a mix of frustration and fascination. "We've identified species of marine life that are entirely new to science and some that shouldn't even exist based on our current understanding of biology. It's as if the world on the other side is a copy of our world, but evolving independently. it is as if convergent evolution is at play here, where different species in isolated environments develop similar traits and adaptations to survive. but we still can't explain it fully. We've discovered sea creatures that bear striking resemblances to familiar animals in our world. For instance, there is a species that looks remarkably like a sea turtle, but upon closer examination, we found distinct genetic and physiological differences. Similarly, we encountered a creature that closely resembles a dolphin, exhibiting similar streamlined bodies and intelligent behavior. everything is completely new to us.
The discussion continued, with delegates debating the allocation of resources for further probing missions. The stakes were high, as the information gathered from these missions could reshape humanity's understanding of the natural world.
Another delegate, representing a nation with a strong focus on global security, voiced concerns. "While we delve into the scientific mysteries of the rift, we must not lose sight of the potential security implications. The presence of predatory creatures, such as the serpents we've encountered, poses a threat not only to marine traffic but potentially to our coastal cities as well."
The delegate continued, his tone reflective. "I must also mention that the rift remains a hot topic of discussion on the internet and in the public sphere. Speculations, theories, and even conspiracy theories abound. It's crucial for us to maintain control over the narrative and ensure that accurate information is broadcast to the public."
"Let's not forget that America and China are watching us closely, waiting for the exact moment to assert their control over the rift and the potential resources it might hold in the special region."
The world was watching, and the decisions made within these walls would undoubtedly have far-reaching implications.
As the debate continued, voices grew louder, and opinions clashed. Some argued for more exploration and understanding, while others urged caution and financial restraint. The room buzzed with tension as they grappled with the mysteries and potential dangers of the rift in the North Atlantic.
Amidst the growing chatter in the UN Headquarters chamber, a person at the back of the room raised their hand, seeking to regain control of the conversation. The noise gradually subsided as all eyes turned to the newcomer.
"I apologize for the interruption," the person began. "But I believe you'll find this information quite intriguing." They proceeded to display the newly received data files on the large digital screen.
A collective gasp rippled through the room as the gathered representatives and experts absorbed the astonishing contents.
The video that played captured the harrowing encounter in all its vivid intensity. As the sea serpent loomed, its colossal form dwarfing the ship, a collective gasp swept through the room. The realistic footage conveyed the sheer scale of the creature, its body coiled in the water, a titanic force of nature.
The serpent's roars reverberated through the video, an otherworldly sound that sent shivers down the spines of those watching. Then, in a moment of brutal reality, they heard the Mk 45 Mod 4 naval gun unleash its devastating power. Rounds of artillery tore through the air, their explosive impact coating the deck of the Flying Dutchman in a gruesome display as the serpent lay lifeless in the water, its massive form now motionless. The room was gripped by intrigue, followed by a quiet atmosphere. The politicians and delegates, seasoned in the art of diplomacy and global affairs, watched the footage with grave expressions. This was no Hollywood action scene; it was a brutal testament to the dangers and uncertainties that the rift posed.
Another video then played, capturing the astonishing sight of a literal walking island that dwarfed their expeditionary ships as it moved away from the vessel. Gasps and murmurs of surprise filled the room as they witnessed this incredible phenomenon.
The person presenting the data continued, explaining that the expeditionary team that had boarded the island managed to record a video feed inside one of its chambers. The footage showed a room covered in dust with artificial lights glowing mysteriously from an unknown source. In the center of the room stood a large circular marble table, its middle section seemingly illuminated by some kind of holographic light.
Then the video took an unexpected turn. A deep, resonant voice echoed from the halls of the ancient chamber: "A visitor?"
The camera showed Dr. Kyle, the expedition's leader, immediately signaling for his team to take defensive positions. Some team members went prone, while others stood ready. The sound seemed to emanate from the very walls of the chamber. The team remained alert and prepared to defend itself if necessary.
The voice spoke again, its tone enigmatic and ancient: "It seems that I have been sleeping for too long. Who are you, and what brings you to this place?"
Dr. Kyle, though taken aback by the voice, quickly composed himself and replied, "We are a team of archaeologists here to study and learn about this ancient hall. We mean no harm."
The voice responded, revealing a tale of ancient conflict and forgotten history. It spoke of a vessel once powerful, now alone, and of a duel with a demon underling. It hinted at a past where humans from Terra had visited this place, but the voice's purpose had changed over time and was now merely to observe.
As the voice continued its narration, it spoke of whispers from a being named Belarius, seeds of doubt and distrust, and the consequences of their kind's arrogance. It described the closing of the rift by the system lords, an act to right the balance and prevent further chaos.
The video presentation ended, leaving the room in stunned silence. None had heard such a tale before, and the implications were profound. The voice's warnings and ancient knowledge offered a glimpse into a forgotten past.
Dr. Kyle finally broke the silence, addressing the voice and its ancient wisdom. "I apologize for any harm caused by my kind in the past. The opening of what you call a 'rift' was not our doing; somehow it just happened. We don't know who or what caused it. As for my reason for being here, my superiors sent me as an inquisitive explorer to learn about your world and bridge the gap between our cultures. I come in peace, hoping for knowledge about the world and whether or not it poses a threat to my people."
The voice responded with caution, warning of the potential dangers and consequences of seeking knowledge in this world. It urged Dr. Kyle to be cautious and to tread carefully.
Then, as if in response to Dr. Kyle's words, the island began to shake. Panic and confusion spread among the people on board as the ground trembled beneath them. Dr. Kyle's radio beeped urgently, and Commander Decken's voice came through, warning of the island's movement and the need to evacuate immediately.
Dr. Kyle's eyes widened in realization, and he urgently relayed the commander's message to his team. The room that had seemed like a treasure trove of ancient knowledge now felt like a precarious trap. The people in the UN chamber watched in shock as the video's unexpected turn of events left them with mixed reactions, ranging from fascination to concern, as they pondered the mysteries of this world and the rift that connected it to Terra.
The person who had presented the astonishing data continued with a serious tone: "After the incident, Dr. Kyle and his team were extracted safely from the island. It appears that the island itself remained docile after the encounter, showing signs of intelligence and even the ability to communicate."
As these words settled in, the atmosphere in the UN chamber shifted from fascination to concern. The realization that the island possessed both sentience and speech was met with a wave of uneasy reactions.
A concerned delegate spoke up, "Wait a minute, if this...island, or relic, whatever it is, is heading toward the rift for refuge, we have to consider the implications. This is no longer just a matter of scientific curiosity; it's a national security concern."
Murmurs of agreement filled the room as the representatives grappled with the newfound understanding that their world might soon be host to a sentient, ancient entity from another realm. The wonder that initially accompanied the discovery was overshadowed by the complex challenges it posed.
The delegate continued, "We need to address this with utmost caution. The existence of this relic, its history, and its intentions could have far-reaching consequences, not just for our world but for global security. We can't simply ignore the fact that it's heading toward the rift, and we need to decide how to handle this situation."
As the UN members deliberated on the next steps, the enigmatic relic transformed from a mere curiosity into a political enigma, raising questions about sovereignty, diplomacy, and the delicate balance of power on a global scale. The chamber was now filled with a sense of urgency and concern as they grappled with the complexities of this unexpected development.
The person at the front of the room, still in charge of the presentation, tapped a few keys on their device. The massive screen flickered to life once more, displaying a UAV image that left everyone in the room in awe-struck silence.
Before them stretched a city, but it was unlike any city they had ever encountered, even in the written records of history. It was a metropolis built on water, an architectural marvel that defied explanation. Wide waterways and canals crisscrossed through the city, their depths allowing for the passage of ships of all sizes, with the widest being 205 meters (673 feet) wide. Superstructures of grandeur loomed over the cityscape, their intricate designs more elegant than those of the ancient city of Rome.
The gathered representatives and experts leaned forward in their seats, their eyes locked on the astonishing image. This was a city that seemed to have been plucked from the pages of myth and legend. It bore the characteristics of a bygone era beyond anything they had ever imagined.
The report accompanying the image revealed the city's name: the Kingdom of Eranelu. It was described as the epicenter of all trade in the special region, a place where commerce flowed like the tides in its intricate canal system. The significance of this revelation hung heavy in the air as its implications rippled through the room.
The person continued, "In response to this remarkable discovery, we have already taken steps to establish a presence in the region. We have initiated the construction of the planned temporary base known as the 'Alpha Site,' which is currently located a few miles from the Kingdom of Eranelu. This will serve as our foothold for further exploration and research."
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As the presentation concluded, the person added, "To further our understanding and ensure a diplomatic approach, Commander Decken has authorized the deployment of a small, specialized team. Their mission is to probe and observe the city of Eranelu while strictly adhering to established protocols." The presentation in the UN Headquarters continued with the person at the front of the room taking a moment to gather their thoughts before proceeding. The image on the massive screen changed, displaying a series of photographs and documents.
"As part of our ongoing efforts in the special region," the presenter began, "we've encountered various individuals who have provided valuable insights into this enigmatic world.
One such encounter involved a pirate captain known as Captain Tempest."
A photograph of Captain Tempest, a rugged and weathered figure with a distinctive tricorn hat, appeared on the screen. He had a reputation as a skilled and cunning pirate, known for his daring raids and knowledge of the treacherous waters in the special region.
The presenter continued, "During an encounter with our expeditionary force, Captain Tempest and his crew attempted to seize control of our ship, the Flying Dutchman. However, due to the combined efforts of Commander Decken and our team, we were able to apprehend him and his crew."
Images of the dramatic confrontation and the subsequent capture of Captain Tempest and his crew flashed across the screen, capturing the attention of those in the room.
The presenter went on to explain, "Captain Tempest, while initially resistant, eventually provided us with valuable information about the region, its challenges, and the various factions that operate within it. His insights have proven invaluable in navigating the complex dynamics of the special region."
The screen then displayed a document with Captain Tempest's signature, signifying his cooperation with the expeditionary force.
The room was filled with murmurs and exchanged glances among the delegates. The idea that a notorious pirate had become an informant for the UN expedition added a layer of complexity to the situation.
But the presentation wasn't finished. The screen shifted to reveal a photograph of an elf, Yaned, sitting in the cafeteria of their research ship, enjoying a plate full of delicious sweets. Her features were sharp and distinctly elven, and she held an air of both curiosity and caution.
"In addition to our encounter with Captain Tempest," the presenter continued, "we also had the opportunity to rescue an elf named Yaned from a perilous situation. She had been facing threats from creatures native to the region and was in dire need of assistance." Images of the rescue mission, including the moment Yaned was brought aboard the Flying Dutchman, were displayed, showing the delicate operation to save her.
"After her rescue," the presenter explained, Yaned was understandably disoriented and confused. As the elf regained consciousness in her state of confusion, a bit of scuffle took place as she tried to make sense of her surroundings. However, it was quickly resolved with the help of Commander Decken. With his help, both curiosity and caution guided her actions as she cautiously observed her surroundings and interacted with the few crew members on board the ship.
"Yaned has been a valuable source of information about the special region, drawing on her knowledge of its geography, inhabitants, and the challenges faced by its denizens."
The room fell into a contemplative silence as the delegates processed the information. One delegate, a diplomat with a discerning eye, raised an eyebrow and then spoke thoughtfully: "Commander Decken has quite the adventure on his hands. From apprehending pirates to rescuing elves, it seems he's navigating a world of intrigue and complexity."
Nods of agreement rippled through the room. The delegates recognized the immense responsibility that Commander Decken had taken on, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of his mission. They understood that his journey would require not only bravery and skill but also a deep understanding of the intricate web of relationships and dynamics within the region.
Meanwhile, in the special region, Yaned continued to observe these modern people and their activities; she noticed a flurry of movement to the side of the clearing. Tents were being set up with remarkable efficiency, their forms taking shape against the backdrop of the beaming noon sky. As the sun reached its highest point, the expandable modular tents stood tall and proud, providing shelter and comfort to the weary travelers. The innovative design allowed for easy assembly, with each section seamlessly fitting into place like puzzle pieces. With their durable materials and reinforced construction, these tents were able to withstand the harsh elements of her world.
These were not the kinds of tents Yaned was accustomed to in her world. The material they used was different—something they called "aluminum." It was lightweight yet incredibly strong, and other materials are made of unknown elements called "plastic." The plastic components of the tents provided added flexibility and resistance to wear and tear.
Men and women moved back and forth between the tents, carrying tools and supplies. Noises of chatter filled the air as she continued to observe. Amidst the organized chaos of the camp, she noticed Commander Decken standing on a small hill that offered a clear view of the recently cleared patch of land. He was engaged in a conversation with a person who stood out wearing a bright yellow hard hat and high-visibility vest. The person held a printed map in one hand and pointed with the other, gesturing towards the landscape and then to various points on the map.
Yaned couldn't hear their conversation from her vantage point, but their body language spoke of intense discussion and careful planning. As Yaned continued to watch the interactions between Commander Decken and the architect, she became aware of someone approaching from behind. Turning her head slightly, she saw a person clad in a high-visibility vest, camera in hand, heading her way. The person glanced at her briefly as they passed by, completely ignoring her. The person then began to point his camera at Commander Decken and the architect, capturing their animated gestures and focused expressions. Yaned couldn't help but wonder if this mysterious person was a scribe tasked with documenting their meeting.
Intrigued, she decided to discreetly follow the person, her curiosity a growing flame within her. With each step, her senses heightened. The distant hum of activity around the camp, the smell of earth and grass all merged into a sensory backdrop to this unfolding mystery.
As she trailed behind the person, she noticed him becoming increasingly aware of her presence. His pace quickened, clearly indicating his desire not to be followed. Finally, he stopped abruptly, and his gaze fixed on Yaned. His expression remained inscrutable, neither irritated nor surprised. Then, with a deliberate motion, he pointed his camera directly at Yaned. Flashes of light momentarily blinded her as he captured her image.
"What do you want?" asked the mysterious person, his voice low and steady.
Yaned, her curiosity piqued, asked, "I was wondering what you're doing with that thing." Yaned then pointed to the camera in the stranger's hand. "I know how your people use those things to capture moments and memories to the point where it feels like they come alive on a painting shown on a luminous glass canvas."
The stranger, with a friendly smile on his face, responded to Yaned's curiosity. "You are observant," he acknowledged, his German accent adding an intriguing layer to the conversation. "I am a photojournalist. My job is to capture moments, just as you've described—moments that tell stories, convey emotions, and freeze time within the confines of a photograph."
Yaned's curiosity deepened as she listened to his explanation. She had heard of these "photographs" and their ability to preserve moments, but this was her first encounter with someone who practiced this art. "Stories within images," she mused. "That sounds like a powerful form of magic."
The photojournalist chuckled softly. "In a way, it is. We use our devices to capture the essence of a moment, and when we share these images, they can transport people back to that specific time and place, even if they've never been there themselves."
Yaned nodded, beginning to grasp the concept. "So, you're documenting this meeting between Sir Decken and the person wearing a funny hat?"
"Yes," the photojournalist confirmed. "I'm here to document their discussions and the decisions they make. It's a way for people in our world to understand what's happening here, in your world."
Yaned thought for a moment.
The photojournalist smiled again, seeing her reaction. His camera was hanging from a strap around his neck, and he began to speak, "Well, if you're interested, you're welcome to observe. Just be mindful not to disturb the subjects; we try to capture their natural interactions."
Yaned nodded appreciatively. "Thank you for your offer, but before we begin, may I kindly ask for your name?"
"My name is Ivan Schönberg; it means 'beautiful mountain' in German, he replied."
Yaned's eyes widened in fascination. "That's an interesting name," she remarked, intrigued by the meaning behind it.
The conversation continued with a somewhat awkward atmosphere surrounding the two. Ivan couldn't help but feel a mixture of nervousness as he observed Yaned's scurious gaze. As the tension grew, Ivan nervously cleared his throat, desperately searching for something to break the awkward silence that hung in the air. Finally, as if a gift from the skies, he spotted an approaching aircraft in the distance.
Ivan's eyes lit up with genuine enthusiasm as he pointed towards the aircraft. "Look there!" he exclaimed, "it seems we have some progress coming our way!"
Yaned followed his gaze, her curiosity piqued once again. As she looked toward the approaching aircraft, a Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion, she noticed a large object suspended from its hoist. It was a mobile generator, a piece of machinery that was alien to her.
"What is that?" Yaned inquired, her curiosity now shifting from Ivan to the intriguing contraption dangling from the helicopter.
"That," Ivan replied with a grin, "is a mobile generator. It seems we will have power for tonight after all!" Yaned gazed at the mobile generator with a puzzled expression.
The term "power" held a different meaning in her world, usually associated with magical energy or the strength of one's abilities. She turned to Ivan, her brow furrowed, and asked, "Power? What kind of power are you referring to?"
Ivan chuckled softly, realizing the gap in understanding. "Ah, I see what you mean. In our world, 'power' often refers to the energy that makes our machines work. It's not like the magical power you might be familiar with. This energy flows through wires and cables, giving life to our devices, but it doesn't possess any magical properties."
He then went on to explain further: "Most of our equipment, like cameras, lights, and even our communication devices, rely on this energy. It's a fascinating concept that has revolutionized the way we live and work. However, without this energy, many of our modern devices wouldn't be able to function properly.
We acquire this power through various means. One common method is by burning fuel, like gasoline or diesel, in engines to generate electricity. It's a practical way to ensure we have a stable source of energy."
He gestured toward the mobile generator. "That there runs on fuel, just like those helicopters. It converts the energy from burning fuel, which is a flammable liquid, into electricity, which we can then use for different purposes."
Ivan's tone became more animated as he went on. "But we're not limited to just that. We can also harness the power of the sun using solar panels. They capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, which is a cleaner and more sustainable way to get power. And then there's wind power, where we use the force of the wind to turn gears and generate electricity. It's all about finding the right source of energy for the task at hand."
As Ivan continued to speak about the various methods of generating their own kind of power, their ability to harness different sources of energy seemed like a form of advanced mastery, akin to the arcane ways of master cultivation and alchemy in her world.
However, a sense of confusion lingered in her mind. It was a puzzling thought for her—a world that didn't rely on magic. In her world, magic was not just a mystical force; it was the lifeblood of society. Everything from daily tasks to grand feats of architecture and transportation was accomplished through magic. The idea of a world that survived without magic was both interesting and strange to her.
And then it got her. Yaned's eyes gleamed with recognition as Ivan described their methods of harnessing natural forces. "We have similar concepts in my world," she said, her voice filled with excitement. "Dwarves in the high mountains use watermills for smithy work and how they feed air to their mighty forges. And in the golden fields of Nul, they build windmills to grind grain into flour."
Ivan listened to Yaned's descriptions of her world and smiled before he spoke. "I would love to capture those concepts through my lens," he said. He knew that capturing the beauty and ingenuity of these parallels would make for stunning photographs. Ivan could already envision the images he would capture, showcasing the watermills in the high mountains and the elegance of windmills in the wheat plains, and he dreamed of visiting these wonders himself.
Ivan leaned in slightly, his voice tinged with excitement. "Right now, I'm capturing the progress of our expedition through photographs. Every step of this journey, from the moment we set foot in this special region to the discoveries we make along the way, I may be amitious but I want to document it all through my lens. Photography has always been my passion, and I believe it has the power to bring the beauty of these landscapes to life for others to see. Every click of the shutter is a chance to freeze a moment in time, capturing the essence of these breathtaking sights and sharing it with the world. Whether it's the rugged grandeur of the watermills or the gentle grace of windmills against golden fields, I hope my photographs can guide others to this enchanting place and inspire them to explore its wonders themselves. He then turned to Yaned, a spark of curiosity in his eyes. "Would you be interested in joining me in this endeavor? Your unique perspective and keen observations could add a whole new perspective to the story we're telling through these photographs."
"Ivan, your dedication is truly admirable," Yaned replied with a warm smile, sensing the passion and love Ivan had for his craft. "I would be honored," Yaned said.
Ivan smiled gratefully, appreciating Yaned's willingness to join. An elf willing to join him was completely alien to him. Ivan couldn't believe his luck. Both of them explored the camp, and their steps occasionally slowed to capture moments that piqued Ivan's interest. frequently telling Yaned why he is interested in capturing the scene. It was a hive of activity, with researchers diligently moving equipment into the newly assembled tents. While some were taking notes and measurements, others were eating in one section of the camp and engaging in lively conversations.
They finally approached the area where the aircraft had landed. Both of them noticed a group of soldiers had gathered, enjoying a brief respite from their duties. Yaned recognized one of them as the soldier who had taken down the goblins with remarkable precision just hours ago, now sitting on the grass and behaving like a carefree youth. They sat on the grass, eating with their silver-wrapped packages (MREs) in hand. Nearby, individuals in high-visibility vests worked diligently on the helicopter, conducting maintenance to ensure its continued reliability.
Yaned and Ivan were engrossed in their observations when a soldier with distinct African American features approached them. Yaned saw that his visage bore similarities to the formidable warrior monks and proud warrior mercenaries of the southern lands of Yaned's world. He began to speak, accompanied by a pensive expression. His demeanor carried a sense of urgency that immediately caught Yaned's attention. He spoke with a deep, resonant voice, addressing the elf.
"Excuse me," he began, his eyes locking onto Yaned's. "Commander Decken requests your assistance...." He paused for a second, as if carefully choosing his words. "Um, you see, we've encountered a group of individuals who claim to be Knights of the Emerald Shores."
As the soldier mentioned the "Knights of the Emerald Shores," Yaned's eyes widened with recognition. The Knights of the Emerald Shores were not unfamiliar to her. They were an order of disciplined warriors who had risen from the depths of poverty and enslavement. Their queen herself had liberated them, personally guiding their training and education. This deep-rooted debt of gratitude forged an unbreakable bond of loyalty between them and their queen, making them her unwavering personal guard. They were not the generic, traditional knights of her world. They are warriors who have been taught the ways of magic by their queen herself, a distinction that sets them apart as a formidable and enigmatic force. Yaned understood that their training encompassed not only martial skills but also the intricate art of magic, making them a truly exceptional order. Yaned felt a surge of urgency as she realized the significance of encountering the Knights of the Emerald Shores. Their presence meant that their queen, who rarely left the safety of her castle, had deemed this mission of utmost importance.
And then it struck her, like a lightning bolt of realization. The queen possessed foresight, a gift of vision that extended beyond the boundaries of their world. The appearance of the modern people was not a mere accident. The queen knew about them and probably had been observing them in secret.
Lost in her own thoughts and surrounded by the expeditionary force of these modern people, Yaned began to see the grand design at play. She wasn't sent outside the trade routes as a sacrificial pawn to be devoured by sea serpents; no, she was a representative of their world, a bridge to these enigmatic visitors.
Her ship's destruction and her miraculous rescue by The Flying Dutchman had all been part of a carefully orchestrated plan. She had been chosen to meet these modern people, to establish a connection, to be a beacon of diplomacy between their worlds. The queen, with her foresight, had foreseen this moment.
Glancing at Ivan in the midst of this new situation, she noticed his grin of interest as he touched his camera, recognizing the potential significance of this encounter to his documentation. eager to capture the unfolding scene. With her decision made, Yaned turned back to the soldier and spoke firmly, "Lead the way."