Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

     The frosted wind nipped at the few exposed parts of my face. How cold was it again? Maybe 30 -er 40 degrees below zero? I wasn't paying too much attention to the thermostats, it was always below zero in some manner out here. I stood atop a valley of glaciers, looking down into the flat crevice below, dotted with large- very large circular holes. My dark brown and teal streaked hair didn't move much in the wind due to the twin braids that looped behind my head, tied together like the tail of a little fish in a teal ribbon. The attire I wore was your typical cold suit, but I liked to pair it with a fur lined brown coat. I had to wear the dark goggles over my regular glasses, but it didn't hinder my vision too much- if I didn't wear them, I'd go blind in my late twenties. 

     I leaned one arm against my Snowfox while I watched over the land below. The dainty hoverbike drifted alongside me, humming quietly on standby while the reflected snow glow highlighted its teal and pink color combo. I’ve always been a fan of those colors- in fact I've even customized my tools and PDA with the same scheme. It was popular about four centuries ago, but I still like the look of it. I gave the bike’s screen a few taps, checking for any seismic activity and ensuring that it's ready to bolt at any second. I then took a moment to examine my mini-thumper dropper in the back. I had seven of the vibration producing devices back there and at the top of a button, they would plop off and start smashing the ice. 

     Everything seemed to be in working order, except my old scarf, which billowed just right in the wind to smack me in the face. It was an old heirloom that my parents sent with me on my way to this planet, made with a silky white satin that glinted in the sun, never tarnished or stained from its years of use. I wasn't upset with its gesture, simply blaming the wind and rubbing my fingers over its soft texture. It was a gift from my mother to my father back when they were dating and as their only child, it was only fair to pass it to me. Especially for the planet I was to spend the next three years of my time. 

     I was currently stationed on 4546B Sector-0-B which was on the east side of the mountain range that split the Arctic into two parts. The wildlife was similar, but there were some creatures under the water that varied. 4546B was a mostly waterlogged planet, but the Arctic was the largest speck of land and the glacial plains on it added to that value. I’ve only taken to the water a couple times- mainly to observe the aquatic wildlife or gather certain resources. I mostly spent my time on the ice like today or back at my designated base- Site Alpha, writing articles and whatnot. Work is work, pay is pay, I'm not one to complain. I’m currently employed by the Alterra Corporation, which I know they have a bad rep here and there- for a time before I was hired, I even wrote about some of those rumors, but they're shipping us decent food, giving us a happy place to stay- just said that any decorations or installations had to be self supplied, and as I said before, they're paying us to study this planet and mine out its resources. My tasks- I say that with emphasis on the plural form- are quite simple. Tuesdays and Thursdays are spent cataloging and writing about the local wildlife in this sector and occasionally (if I am lucky) I am permitted to write and publish articles about the more . . . interesting aspects of this planet. I should clarify that portion with a small “history lesson”. 4546B was something of a “Bermuda Triangle” several years back where Alterran (and all other) spacecraft mysteriously disappeared following some kind of heavy ionic signature. Out of the many years and hundreds of disappearances, only one survivor recently made it back to civilization with quite the story. Unfortunately, most of it is classified, but the big thing that we learned

is that we’re not alone in the universe.

For years we've only speculated about intelligent life- not just life in general. These aliens were apparently the ones responsible for creating the ion producing weapon that struck down every vessel in the planet’s radius. They were far- FAR more advanced than us, able to exist as data and communicate through a psuedo-hivemind. Unfortunately for us,

they've been extinct for the past thousand years.

Every working chunk of their technology has been left on standby, going about their last commands as if they were given daily- as if the aliens were still present. All we can really deduce about the species lies mainly in their architecture, thus the designation:

Architects.

I couldn't explain much about it other than they were around longer than we currently are, they went extinct due to a highly aggressive disease, and they were a little over twice our average size. How do we know that one? Basic lab tables left behind in their old overgrown facilities. They honestly did a lot of the research for us when it comes down to this planet- apparently, most creatures are of a singular sex, but reproduction has different requirements depending on the species- like some require genetic material from another, others do it asexually, but then the eggs need certain environments or deposits or enzymes- it's a mixed bag that I know enough about to semi-explain it, but not fully, plus I would rather not delve into that topic as that's what my bosses- er the HR community keeps getting on me about. No- no it's nothing major, it just has something to do with what I'm tracking today. I track these creatures at the glacier whenever the mining team is doing their work and something that I recently recorded took HR’s interest. A couple of those beasts had become a mated pair and it was my theory that they were due to have eggs at some point. Eggs we could take, domesticate, and raise them to help aid the miners in their task. Unfortunately, I don't know the exact effects of domestication- in fact, those eggs would be the first raised in captivity. The only problem with acquiring those eggs is the aggression of these beasts.

The Ice Worms.

My Snowfox’s seismic detector trilled the alarm indicating the arrival of one such creature. I felt the rumbling not too long after- thankfully, not up on my glacial shelf, but from down in the flat valley. Judging by the vibrations, this Ice Worm wasn't the one I was looking for, but still enough to alert the mining crews towards the west end of the crevice, if it proves itself a threat. The ice rumbled further and I began to notice the telltale formation of cracks- massive cracks perfectly fit for a leviathan class predator. It smashed its way out of the ice, revealing its gorgeous appearance. I always thought they were majestic creatures- thick black scales coating their hide, soft pale blue underbellies lined with rows of little claws to aid them in their burrowing ventures. They had two horns that raked back from their heads, leading onwards towards the front and its most distinctive feature, the long, flaming, golden horn, dripping with melted ice and capable of roasting more than just frozen water. I’ve seen them strike their snouts into solid metal and burn through it like it was nothing. A terrifying sight, but one that proves their use. 95m long, live drilling machines. If the domestication of the eggs is successful, we could have access to the best mining assets in this sector of the Adriane Arm. Unfortunately the worm down in the valley currently was a younger buck, mature enough to be a powerful driller, but not enough to garner the attention of the females. The main difference between the sexes was the design on their back horns, the females were more smooth while the males had a spiny ridge along the sides. The pair I was looking for always dug tunnels on either side of each other and the male had massive ridges on his horns. I haven't actually seen the female in full, however, she is much more elusive than her mate, staying down a little further than the male and rarely breaching, despite the need to hunt. This has clued me in on a couple possible theories. The female is either being fed by her mate, or she has a more nocturnal behavior pattern. If the former of the two theories was true, then it could indicate that the female was in a brooding state, therefore carrying eggs. The eggs HR has been getting on my butt about acquiring. Unfortunately due to the rabid state of the male, it's a task I couldn't accomplish as a lone infiltrator. Today wasn't the day to seek the eggs, but I've been working on getting a team together for the hunt. Today, it was just me and my normally assigned task.

Watch/study the worms, warn the mining crews if any come too close.

I’ve seen so many unfortunate incidents, but at the same time, I've learned the signs and behaviors to look out for. The Ice Worm below me, for example, wasn't in an active predatory state, simply taking in the sun on its black scales as a means of warming themselves in this frozen landscape. They seemed relaxed and calmed, for the time being, but I know how quickly these beasts can turn. The worms hunt their prey in packs, chasing after the vibrations they create under the ice and breaching in just the right spots to herd them into a kill zone. The unfortunate prey are more than often common wildlife such as Snow Stalkers, which are bear-like wolf-like semi-aquatic predators. The Snow Stalkers normally hang around old flooded Ice Worm tunnels, catching the fish and occasionally Pengwings as a means of sustenance. We use those flooded tunnels for the same purposes, including a way out to sea for minerals and research. Site Alpha was built partially overtop an unnaturally large crater with a specialized double moonpool system. One side is used for dropping and collecting the submersibles that deliver resources to and from while the other hangs over the surface for PRAWN Exosuits and Snowfoxes. Our base is sort of the main shipping and repair shop, but it's a comfy spot to live and visit the diner which is open to all who are willing to part with a few company credits. HR’s site, Site Iota, is a ways to the south and apparently marks itself as a midpoint between sites Theta, Lambda, and Epsilon. Theta is to the east and is a site dedicated to researching the ocean life and it's directly off the coast in the water, Epsilon is towards the North West and is more for land-based research and is where we’ll be raising the Ice Worm eggs, and then Lambda whose location is classified is dedicated to researching the Architects, but we never really see anything come out of it, except the occasional deciphered glyph or “theory”. If they do send that stuff out, I always enjoy writing about it- in fact, I'd love to get in on the proper research. The Architects truly fascinate me as much as the Ice Worms. The proposed biological theories as to how they lived and functioned were incredible as it is- enough to give any biologist the fuzzies if I'm being frank. Unfortunately, it's a job left to the more trusted members of Alterra’s Xenobiology department.

I’m currently a “base level” researcher- I went to college to study alien biology, but my path of study was more focused on wildlife rather than possible sapient encounters. In fact, it was in college when I received the nickname that has usurped my own. I was performing a study on a species of deer-like creatures on a different frozen planet. It was mainly about a disease that was endangering a variety called Pale Eyed Snow Stags. This disease was a bacterial infection that ate away at the deer’s neural tissues and eventually ceased all function. The worst part about it, was that it wasn't a native disease- like that one that wiped out the Architects, however, I was able to propose and put a possible cure in place which involved a fatty diet high in omega3. So far this process has given the Stags in captivity a natural sense of immunity and it appears to be hereditary, as such we released them and after just two years, the population returned back to its original state.

Thus my name:

Doe.

     I’ve been using it long enough for it to just be what everyone refers to me as. Not even Alterra has my actual name on record. 

To them, I'm merely the deer in the snow.

     The Ice Worm below me suddenly reared back and belted a howl across the ice, a sign of soon to be trouble as I have learned. I squeezed the handle on my drifting Snowfox, mildly irritated, but curious to see how this plays out, maybe this lone buck will draw the pair. Of course I'd have to alert the mining teams, but then I needed to chase them. Despite this not being the time to acquire the eggs, I still needed to find where they were attempting to nest for future reference.

     My seismic detector trilled again, indicating the coming of the young Buck's accomplices. The ice below cracked and beveled, the sound and vibration of it all enough to trick someone into thinking an earthquake was coming and judging by the immediate responding cries, the quake was coming to hunt. I have a quick few taps to my Snowfox’s screen, checking the nearby mining sites for activity and one was in full swing- enough to draw the worms’ hungry ire. Unfortunately, it was the same team that a good friend of mine, Jerry, was leading today. With a single click of the button, I fast-called his PDA.

“Jerry, we have a hunting party forming to the east of you guys- you know the drill, shut off the machinery and start getting out of there.” I stated with the professional tone I normally use in these situations.

“Hear you loud and clear, deer girl-” He accepted my warning with his naturally husky tone and turned to alert the guys, barking the shutdown commands and initiating the typical evacuation procedures. Attacks like these happen often enough for us to have quick and easy game plans without worry. I hopped up on my Snowfox's seat and booted the hoverpads into action. I always loved the roaring hum of its engines- as if it were to take off and fly, but I’d have to make do with speedy hover traversal. 

     The party grew into a team of four- a typical amount, but it seemed with every arriving worm, the energy only grew. As if they weren't just on a typical hunt, but one that they needed to do to keep surviving. The fires in their horns raged as they balked and snapped at each other. They knew something was coming, something that needs the food too, but has been obsessively hunting, something that I've seen to the south, slaughtering Snow Stalkers and everything else. The male of the Ice Worm pair I had been seeking.

SKREEEEHAAAAWAAA

The wailing roar in the distance immediately silenced the party who all wiped their horns in the direction of the sound. They only did so for a moment, watching cautiously and waiting. I followed their gaze and found nothing as well, that call was distant, but it matched the tone of the male I was seeking. Something to investigate later, but the worms below me calmed down and began their assault westwards. I shot one extra worried glance to the south, and then kicked my bike’s thrusters into gear, darting down the slope I originally came up on. 

     The Snowfox I was using had been heavily modified into a swift and speedy stealth vehicle, capable of keeping up with the worms while not drawing their attention too much. This hunting party was moving with a kind of haste I wasn't anticipating as I shot a tail of snow behind me. They traveled on in shallow tunnels like snakes in the snow, leaving rivers behind them that would freeze back over before the sun rose tomorrow. They barked and squealed to each other, a sure sign of their hunger and plans for their hunt. It's so easy to alert the Ice Worms, even the lightest vibrations at a far distance is enough to invoke their attention. Unfortunately that goes for the worms as well, these ones weren't trying to move about nonchalantly like they normally try to. Probably out of desperation or simply because they wanted to get in and out as soon as possible. The thing is, if all goes well, no one will be having a snack out of that mining team. A small notification appeared on the bike’s screen from Jerry, a simple thumbs up about the success of the evacuation, but he asked if I could still swing by to help him with laying out the thumpers. As always, I obliged by sending him an “OK *thumbs up*”. We’re professionally unprofessional with our emails, but you never have to impress a friend at least. I swung the bike and moved myself towards the left flank of the group, holding onto the inside of the valley’s walls in order to try and get ahead of them. I flipped through my beacons and found the ones for Jerry and his crew to keep track of things. The team was already on their way out of the glacial basin and should be reaching a patch of solid ground- not ice, shortly. The worms can only tunnel through the ice and small patches of metal, anything sand and dirt isn't their forte, but judging by the behavior of these beasts who now trail behind me, they’d be willing to slink out of their channels and slither across it. I can only assume that this is because of the proximity of the male, but he shouldn't be a worry. 

     I continued my path, checking back at the worms to make sure my distance is far enough to make it to Jerry before them, yet close enough not to alert them to me. So far they seemed pretty dead set on their quest. I'm playing my cards well, but I shouldn't get too cocky. A show of hands around leviathans is a method of sure death. Eventually I caught sight of one of the shortcut tunnels- the mining teams dug those out to cross the glacial walls and in situations like this to juke the worms. They would have to go around, but using the shortcut gave me the lead. I darted the bike down into the tunnel, rushing through and out to the other side with ease, Jerry’s pit in view. All the machinery was shut off except for a single PRAWN suit perched on a jutting shard of ice looking out for me.

“You always have great timing-” the operator whose voice I recognized as Jerry's moved the PRAWN’s arm to point to the hover carrier’s paths taken during the typical evacuation, “My guys should be regrouping at our temp site, but you know the drill, those worms are chasing them.”

“I kept telling HR that you guys should upgrade.” I called back to him and I swung the bike to stop it.

“We’re all disposable, Doe, they don't give disposables individual Snowfox bikes.”

“I never liked how they treat you guys,” I snorted and the wind smacked my scarf into my face again, reminding me of our task, “I’ll start dropping the thumpers to lead them back around- you work on shuttling the worms to them.” I directed and the PRAWN shifted forwards to nod at me, revealing the white haired man and his burlier features.

I kicked the bike back into gear and shot off, loud thumping PRAWN steps chasing behind me, engaging its thrusters to leap and ground pound into the snow. I ran the Snowfox towards the mouth of the canyon, the howls of the worms noting their location. I flicked the dropper’s switch as I went, deploying the little smashing devices and drawing a path back around. Once they took the bait, I’d loop them back out and away. Jerry’s PRAWN only enticed the action further and he made sure to ground pound the ice at the in-betweens. Soon the fiery horns came into view and they took our bait like it was free candy. The rumble of the thumpers invoking their attack, smashing their horns, and diving wherever they felt motion. They followed our path like good little feisty ducklings and we began to make the loop back out.

“How’s it going on your end, Shark Boy?” I called out to Jerry.

“They're going wild over it today! I've never seen them latch onto our bait this quickly.” 

“Yeah- it's funky, but I think it's because- 

Trrrreeeee Trrrreeeee

My seismic detector went into full alarm, “Because-” My demeanor immediately changed. The worms suddenly stopped their assault and whipped around to the canyon’s mouth, watching with the kind of unspoken fear on their eyeless faces. The rumbling grew greater- and greater.

“Because of the male!” I panicked and immediately threw my bike into reverse as the ice buckled in front of me and a horn larger than the young bucks’ broke free- this beast has matured into a true leviathan, reaching a solid hundred meters in length. It tore through the ice like it was nothing, revealing its wildly barbed horns and drilling snout, hot enough to turn the ice to instant steam. Jerry yelped in panic and joined me back, despite this beast being the target of my search, its ravenous state obviously made it an extreme danger.

But us little humans weren't its prey.

BAWWKARAAAAAAHAAAA

It lunged and the bucks, stabbing its horn and roasting the meat of one of them who howled in agony as it was dragged away from the party who fled back . . . towards us.

“Uh Doe?!” Jerry squeaked and kept tromping on with me.

“We can take the shortcut back out- they shouldn't follow us, but that male-”

“Wasn't it the one HR told you to track?” 

“Yes, but it's very preoccupied-” Another howling cry proved that statement, “-As much as I'd love to track it back to the nest- this is not the time!”

“Obviously-”

CRASH!

One of the bucks smashed forwards, trying to dig away only for the male to drag it back by the tail, the other bucks trying to help only to be rammed by the greater male’s horn.

“Let's just focus on staying alive okay?” I waved my hand and pointed to the shortcut, scarf billowing behind me.

“Gotcha!”

We dived down into the tunnel and drove through, making our movements as swift as possible. The pained calls from behind us started to die down the further we got until we breached the other side safely. With the worms preoccupied, we could make our way to Site Alpha without worry.

We stopped at the end and stared back down the scrappy hole.

“So, that thing is the male?” Jerry panted, but was working on evening his breath.

“That’s him alright, mighty isn't it?”

“What causes them to get that big, geez?”

“Mating season mutations, basic genetics, I'm not sure either, but I know one thing’s for certain.”

Jerry met my eyes in seriousness.

“The female is bound to be larger.”

He gulped a little and collected himself, “But she's deeper down right?”

“In theory, she either travels under her mate or is back at the nesting site- all deeper down.”

“So we shouldn't see her?”

“As long as we don't invoke her ire, we should be fine,” I huffed and tilted the bike around, “Let's get back to base- my base, and address this there.”

He nodded and followed my lead back out the canyon. Snow kicked up behind us as we got on our way, meeting the drift from the sky, and the slow creep of the golden evening’s approach. A clear, flurry filled night on its way.

Chapter Text

     Sometimes it rains without a cloud in sight, could be that we simply don't see the clouds or that they're so thin, that the rain is the cloud. Same can be said for the snow, a quiet flurry trickled on overhead, but the clouds were too thin to be perceived. It wouldn't last long, but it was enough just to be pretty as Jerry and I made our way to Site Alpha. 

     It wasn't a long trip as the base was built close enough to the mining sites, but far enough away as to not be of any interest to the worms. The golden light of the evening cast itself upon the snow, yet the white glow of our light sticks was a greater beacon and greater still was the light of the three storied base before us. Three large rooms stacked on top of each other, one as a basement, one a ground floor, one an upstairs. The ground floor level had the two moonpools and a greenhouse connected to it, warm light shining from every window.

     I parked my Snowfox on its charging pad and directed Jerry's PRAWN to the moonpool. I haven't actually seen the male worm in full that close, being a full twenty meters larger than the young bucks, large enough to see its own kin as a viable prey source. The thing is, it attacked with such intent on the bucks, but only took one back down the massive tunnel it broke free from. That could heavily indicate that it was planning on sharing that buck with its mate. If it wasn't, I'm pretty sure it would’ve eaten it then and there and abandoned the scraps to the Snow Stalkers. I’d have to run a little investigation on my own to find the nest, but that hole was large enough to where I could run a scan and track it across the glacial surface. If that attack was indeed the male’s mission to acquire food for its mate then that could imply that the female was in a brooding state over their eggs, unable to leave because it’s too busy trying to keep them warm. That buck could only keep the pair sated for a while though, so my investigation, moreover collecting the eggs from them, would have to come soon.

     I embarked through the main bulkhead of the base while Jerry took the moonpool’s entrance. We’d meet over at the dining space and discuss this a bit more in depth- over some tasty snacks of course. 

     I undid the cold suit's zippers and hoods, shedding it off like a layer of dead skin and shaking off the loose snow, but unfortunately not the splattered worm blood. I’d toss it in the wash later, but for now it just felt nice to have my bare arms to the air, unruffling the clothes I wore underneath. I almost always wore those kinds of exercise leggings with the weird climate control wicking fabric. Those things were always comfortable and I swear they're what inspired AEPs. I smoothed out my white shirt, unrolling the light blue cuffs on the sleeves and bottom while checking if my embroidered company emblem came loose. Thankfully it didn't, but that wasn't my concern at the moment. The semi-porky scent of freshly fried Reginald fish hit my nose and drug me away to the diner before I could get a second thought in.

     Several mining groups and some of my basemates sat around the almost restaurant-like space, chatting about the days, how Alterra pays peanuts for this garbage, and how Buddy’s a magician with a spatula. The black haired chef was our base's secondary botanist aside from Tammy, but his story isn't one to tell. Buddy, proper name Maurice, was once a member of Alterra's military services helping to colonize new planets with dangerous wildlife, but he's long retired from that task and now devotes himself to light comedy and dark cooked meats. The long black braid on the left side of his face was apparently a remnant of his time abroad, a memory of a friend who wore the same style. That's where his story becomes one unspoken, as far as I know that friend perished and that's about it. Buddy doesn't talk much about it and would prefer it if it wasn't brought up, as such, I respect his space. 

     Jerry was already at a table alone for the moment over by the window, but quickly waved me over once he noticed me. I smiled and waved back, letting him know I was gonna place an order first. I knocked on the “bar’s” desk and simply stated: “The Regular.” The tender simply understood and nodded, quickly typing an order for some lightly fried Reginald. It's kinda like eating a thick cut of pork with that delightful salty flavor, but with the fluffy fish texture. Weird, but good stuff. The tender handed me a tag reading “Resident Order, #45”.

     Having placed my order I finally made my way back around to Jerry who was busy stirring a cup of tea that honestly looked over-stirred.

“Still a bit frazzled?” I sat down and leaned on my arm, face cupped.

“I've been close to worms, but never one that big and rabid.” He avoided my eyes. Despite being a big guy with the reputation of killing a shark-er-crocodile-like creature called a Cryptosuchus with his bare hands, he got scared easily. Still, he’s great with direction and leadership in times of distress such as that hunting incident earlier.

“I get that, but that male was more than enough to scare me too, don't worry about that part- it's the male itself we gotta focus on.” I started to fidget with my the cubicles of my nails 

“Yeah, so what's your assessment?” He looked up at me through his long white hair. He normally ties it back in a bun, but sometimes likes to just let it dangle around like that.

“I'm thinking the male was less concerned with us and more of that hunting party- it wanted a big meal, something that could be split between it and its mate.” I tapped my finger on the table, but caught a glance at the tender who was wandering over with our food. We stopped to thank him of course, but quickly returned to our conversation, despite the wafting hot fume of my fish trying to drag my attention. I was always food-oriented- tell me about an event? Nah, nope, say there's food included? Yep, yeah.

“So, you're thinking the female is stationary?”

“Mostly, if that was indeed a shared meal, then that could imply that the female is currently at the nest either laying or incubating the eggs.” I held my hand over the dish and addressed its temperature, deeming it too hot for immediate consumption.

“Good thought, but now, you’ve been meaning to gather some eggs for Alterra, how do you plan on going about that knowing this?” He reached down and snatched some of the purple-grey Chinese potato fries sitting alongside what looked like a mock caprese sandwich.

“Well, I'm thinking I'll probably follow the tunnel that the male just made- over the surface of course- and see if there's a spot that could serve as a viable location for the nest- if my suspicions about the worm’s meal being shared, then that tunnel should- key word should- be pretty close or directly connected to the nest,” I fiddled a fork and sliced a chunk out of my fish, “From there, I was thinking about having you and your PRAWN guys join me to physically enter the tunnel and stealthily snatch the eggs.”

He pondered my words, “I wouldn't mind, but let's say all heck breaks loose and the worms go nuts on us, what then?” 

“It won't get to that point unless you guys start smashing the walls and smacking pots together- be quiet, Ice Worms non-the-wiser.”

“Okay, I think I get you, I'll let my two best guys know, but is there anyone else?” 

“I was thinking of calling up Sally- she joins me on my surveys occasionally and I think having some HR representation would be nice on the way out- she could run the numbers concerning the eggs to Site Epsilon.” Sally was a good friend of mine- I met her back when I was doing the research on the Pale Eyed Snow Stags and was the one who recommended my skill to this establishment on 4546B. She normally worked at the HR site doing the typical paperwork, but whenever she was free she liked to go on surveys with me. We've even worked together with diverting worms and her Snowfox has a lot of the same modifications as mine, if something came up we could address it.

“I think she'd like that, so uh, when are we thinking about going on this adventure?” He took another fry.

“Hopefully sooner than later- I don't know how long they'll be satiated, I was thinking maybe we could meet and agree on a plan of attack on Tuesday then venture out on Wednesday.”

“That sounds fine to me, but kinda sudden.”

“As I said, I don't know how long they'll be busy with that dead buck, or how long they'll nap afterwards- it’s gotta be a quick in and out kind of mission.” I stuffed a chunk of the fish in my mouth, trying not to get lost in its delicious flavor while being serious.

“Well, I know my guys are gonna be working anyway both Tuesday and Wednesday so they'll probably come with me, but I’d check in with Sally.”

“I'll call her up later.”

“Gotcha, anyway I only planned to spend a quick second talking with you- Herb can only keep track of my team for so long while I'm away- they made it safely to the rendezvous and temp base, no problems,” He wrapped up his sandwich in some paper and quickly boxed the fries, “Just wanted to talk with you and have a happy bit of a handmade meal.”

“Well, don't let me keep you- say hi to your dudes for me.”

“Gotcha, see ya tomorrow- oh wait, uh what time and where?”

“Gah- sorry about that, just me forgetting the most important part of a meeting- you know how I am?- just here at five for dinner again is fine.” I’ve always been a forgetful person, but forgetting is always an ongoing process . . . so is my fluttery passions . . . and the fact that I usually come up with stuff on the spot . . . and my wild and random mood swings (good thing I kept it together today)- it's hard trying to act neurotypical when you know you aren't. I've been getting better, having more control over it by the simple fact that I kinda need to have it reined in, but there's days when I start seeing squirrels.

“That works, I'll plug it into my calendar- and uh don't apologize, I get you’re probably more focused on those worms, no worries, have a good evening.” He smiled at me and did a little salute crossed with a finger gun before leaving a couple physical credits for his meal and heading out where he came. After a moment I saw his PRAWN appear in the window and shoot one last wave at me, tromping off into the snow and getting swallowed by the flurry.

     The room began emptying overtime as I got around to eating my fish. It's been about an hour since Jerry left- I'm a slow eater, but I savor my food. The Reginald’s flavor reminded me of my home back on Earth- I've always loved a good barbecue grilled ham. It's been two years since I've last been around, so it's easy to miss. I was fortunate enough to grow up in an easy-going household with just enough to get us by and just enough extra for small simple pleasures- like a ham or some ice cream or some fresh fabric for sewing. It was a quiet life, nothing major and to be frank, I never asked for anything more other than a happy paycheck. But times change and so do we. Learning about life on other worlds was an eye opener for me, especially when I heard of 4546B and being recommended to join a research team was really a dream come true. Riding alongside those worms has become a passion, and I dream of the day when the Xenobiologists are able to awaken the Architects. If all theories are true, their extinction could only be temporary. Really fascinating stuff, unfortunately only so much is disclosed, the rest? Behind red tape and corporate exploitation.

Maybe it's better not to dream.

     I finished up my meal and decided to go up to my room to call Sally. The other three members of my base were all that remained in the room, playing cards. I walked past them and let them know I was gonna be busy for a minute, but would be back soon if they were still playing. I never minded hanging out with them in the evenings, they were a good natured sort, besides, I needed some friendly socialization after staring into an icy basin all day.

     My room was up on the base’s second floor, it's kind of our main privacy space with its own kitchenette and comfy lounge room- fit with a TV and extra desk space for any projects. The others mainly shared their rooms, Mary with Tammy, Buddy with Davis, but the room that was mine was originally meant for storage, but I wasn’t complaining, I had the whole thing to myself. The bathroom situation wasn’t too bad either, I had to share it with the girls- and guys to guys- but I never had a hard time with it. Two showers, two toilets, two sinks, three girls- no one ever uses the one tub but me when I’m free enough for it so I’m not gonna complain as long as I get my bubble baths in peace. Is it a pain sharing a shower with someone? No, I’ve long gotten used to it and don’t really care- Tammy doesn’t use it too much anyway. I digress, my room was split into a “work” and “rest” side via my large aquarium- practically a partition, but full of fish. The side where the door accessed was where I kept my work desk and a crafting station covered in a mess of fabric, paints, and freshly folded paper coral flowers. I’ve been working on making decorations themed around this region of ocean nearby that we call The Tree Spires. The volcanic activity in the area pushed up the sediment just right to create branching hydrothermal vents full of a unique bacterial species that this pretty purple and pink coral flower formation feeds off. As they dot the vents, the flowers make them look like smoking trees- really a pretty sight if you're willing to brave the icy waters. I've only gone down a couple of times, never been a fan of the water, no less the predators. Davis has chirped too much about giant red prawn sharks, spectral blue serpents, and real life dragons to keep me out of it, still they do fascinate me. The Ice Worms are among the leviathan class as is all those beasts, kinda makes you wonder how macrofauna evolved on this world- had to come from something, but now that I think about it, there's fossil records for something over a thousand meters- a true super predator, maybe it's best not to imagine something like that alive.

     I made my way over to the restful side of my room, waving to my cute Peeper fish, silly Featherfish, and fluttery Arrowray as I went. I was thinking about getting a fourth fish, maybe a Discus or Spine fish, something unique like that. I sat down on my bed and plucked out my PDA, running the speed dial for Sally and setting it beside me.

“This is Snow Stag contacting yard bird, come in yard bird.” I joked a bit and Sally giggled on the other end.

“Ya don't normally contact me to play games, something’s up and you're playing.” 

“Playing because I'm a little stressed, Sal, you see, we finally caught sight of the male of that Ice Worm pair and they forged a trackable tunnel recently, I was gonna follow it tomorrow morning and try to map a plausible location for a nest, but later at five could you drop by site Alpha? We're thinking that this mission to get the eggs has to be sooner than later, so I'm thinking we'll go acquire them on Wednesday.”

“Wow, that's pretty sudden.” She said with a light lift to her voice, definitely surprised.

“Yeah, I'm sorry, but I don't wanna risk the rage of those two when they're hungry- they just got a giant meal today and I'm hoping it'll keep them sated while we go about our task.”

“Well, you're the closest to an expert we have.”

“I know a lot, but there's always uncertainties, however, I’m pretty sure those two will be in a cannibal’s food coma long enough for us to do our stuff right quick.”

“Gotcha, gotcha, I’ll be over tomorrow and I'm available all of Wednesday- I’d consider this a priority mission- especially with my bosses asking me about your egg progress.”

“Eugene biting you too?” 

“Yeah, but that's not important, I gotta finish a report, but I'll see you soon.”

“See ya.” I hung up and placed my PDA on its charger, taking a small stretch and getting ready to make my way back to the dining space. Before I left my little haven completely, I made sure to give my fish their daily treats and favorite little ping-pong ball. It's got just the right density to stay submerged and be easily patted around by the little critters. It keeps them happy and entertained to play with something.

     A part of me wanted to crash in my room for the rest of the day and sew or fold flowers like a nut, but I knew I was well overdue for some socializing. A quick hop back down the steps and a stroll down the hall later, the others were right where they were before, tossing their cards back and forth.

“Whatcha playing?” I crossed my arms and leaned over, totally not looking at their hands- mainly Davis’s and Tammy’s.

“Just some Uno- I can deal you in if you’d like.” Mary shot me a smile and I sat down beside her, accepting a dose of cards. Mary was my direct colleague when it came to writing articles, we’d bounce our stuff back and forth for editing, but I wouldn't be available tomorrow for it.

“I’m gonna be doing a quick survey tomorrow of a tunnel- trying to track that worm pair HR’s been getting on my butt about.” I sorted my cards absentmindedly.

“Well, I'm a head in work anyway so it's no biggie, you do what you need.” Mary reached her hand back and ran it through her long fiery hair, coming back down to rub her freckled face and emerald eyes.

“Yeah, the actual egg gathering is on Wednesday.”

“Ooh, I've been curious about that,” Tammy’s amber gaze lit up at the mention of the eggs, “They're kinda scary when they’re big like that so I'm excited to see the little babies when they're ready,” She scratched her blue turtleneck- the sweater she wore often and brushed one of her loose black, caramel, and pink braids out of her dark face. Tammy was the base’s botanical gossip, but actually a pretty good news source. In some cases, yes it is just rumors, but we have to keep ourselves entertained one way or another. She also was the one with the most pets on site- I know I have some fish, but apparently she's got a whole school and has been raising some of the planet's more “intelligent” plants in the greenhouse. She's most proud of her aquatic Tiger Plant- it's like a striped sea sponge, but they can spit their thorns and any passersby. Feisty plant that thing.

“I'm not sure how big the babies will be, but my hope is that they’ll grow fast enough to please HR.”

“Well, lemme know when they're at Epsilon will ya? I’d love to see them.” She shared a giddy smile with me. We both have the same kind of mentality, bouncing this one brain cell back and forth often. She actually was the one who helped me to figure out my own neurodivergence- I’ve been try to be “normal” for so long that it's really held me back and made me think that there was something horribly wrong with me and that I couldn't do anything that anyone else could do normally- mainly having motivation, keeping their mentality together, and being able to move on. It really was a blessing for me to meet with her, it helped a lot and I've been doing much better accepting myself rather than trying to be someone else for the people above me. 

“Despite the fact that they’re aliens, I’d like to see them too.” Davis’s gruff voice cut over the table and his icy eyes met mine. 

“Really? You’re entertained by this too?” Mary looked up from her hand with wide eyes. Davis was normally not interested in this sort of thing- especially with me involved. So there's a story with that, on my first day here I was so fluttery and nervous that I did everything I could to try to impress them, helping out and trying to engage wherever possible. Unfortunately this mindset led to me investigating Davis’s prized laser cutter PRAWN arm- which he designed and planned on pitching to Alterra for production and as a fragile prototype, it fell apart quickly and he uh, let's just say me and him don't get along too well. We can tolerate each other's presence enough to work as a group, but I'm permanently banned from his workspace. 

“Well, as much as I'd prefer a mechanical substitute for drilling beasts, I'll give those death worms one thing; they're efficient.” He waggled a finger, shaking his short white-blonde hair ever so slightly. The guy almost looks like a ghost with his pale on pale combo, but he doesn't mind, “the genetic lottery does what it wants” according to him.

“Well if the possible cuteness of the baby worms entertains you enough to be interested- you may look but don't touch.” I teased a little- I tend to tease out of endearment, it's nothing mean really.

“I meant that I was interested in their drilling capacity, not their ‘cuteness’.” He rolled his eyes and tossed an eight on the discard pile, letting me toss the same in a different color.

Tammy squirmed a little in her chair, “Think their horns would be stubby? Would they be chonky or like thin spaghetti strips?” 

“I'm not sure how they'll turn out- this is gonna be the first time any are raised in captivity, but domestication shouldn't be too hard- feed them, they’ll love you.” I smiled back.

“Could you guys keep it on blue?” Davis mumbled and I immediately changed it to green.

“This is a competitive game, not a kindergarten class.” I giggled, noting how he turned away and covered his face like a distressed poet.

“Ah, this is my downfall- or rather yours- I was bluffing.” With a cheeky grin he dumped his last card on green. Mary immediately rolled her eyes and Tammy just snorted, I shrugged tossing my cards on the table, “Well I'll keep an eye next time.”

“Probably should.” He snickered and started pulling the cards together and returning them to their box.

“So uh, I'll be off then, I plan on going out early tomorrow, so I'll see you guys later on ‘kay?”

“That's all good, just don't get skewered Deer Girl.” Mary gave me a little salute.

“I've gotten pretty good at avoiding skewers, anyways I'll be in my room- if you need anything, I'm busy making more flowers.”

“Oh yeah, thinking the first chain will be ready soon?” Tammy leaned on one of her arms.

“Pretty soon! I'm looking forward to getting this place looking pretty- okay so I'll be going now, uh, I don't want this to drag too long.”

“We won't hold ya, go work on your flowers and take a snooze.” Her caramel braids bounced behind her and she hopped up out of her seat and strolled back to the greenhouse. I honestly believe she sleeps there sometimes, but I can't blame her- I've taken a nap there twice myself. Mary and Davis collectively decided to go to the moonpool's workspace. For Davis, I knew it was probably work related, but Mary? I think the fact that they're holding hands says it.

. . .

     About two hours later in the day I had finished up my first chain of purple and pink coral flowers. I had made some cutouts of the tree spires earlier, but those just had the flowers on their own. They kinda reminded me of a personal favorite flower back home, something called wisteria. They're said to represent longing, but I never knew what for. Still I always found their aroma soothing and the soft purple reminded me of the violet glint of the coral. Despite wisteria being my favorite I also enjoyed roses, lavender, and jasmine. They all have such a pleasant scent and a cute palette. I'm not normally the cutesy flowery girl, but I enjoy painting them if I find them at greenhouses back on Earth.

It may be a post-MAD world, but poison never lingers forever. 

Life always returns.

Perhaps the same could be said for the lost Architects.

I’d be going to bed soon, but for now I’d call it quits for the day. I got a beast of a worm to track, and I’d need to be at my sharpest.

The tunnels could collapse.

Chapter Text

    I always hated the sound of my alarm in the mornings, but we collectively agreed to go out early. It was currently Wednesday and we talked over a viable game plan Tuesday after I had tracked the male worm’s path. 

     I estimated the tunnel’s length to be about twelve miles, traveling east towards a flat area of the glacier called “the hunting grounds”. That region was known for Ice Worm and Snow Stalkers attacks, but my scanner reached far enough for me to avoid it- plus, today's mission involved us traveling under it. 

     The tunnel proved to be a perfectly carved route to the nest connecting directly to its main chamber- moreover, I could physically see the two worms’ fiery horns on the scan, curled up together like a couple of cute murder monsters. Even better still, I caught a glimpse of roughly five- maybe more glistening eggs in the center of their coils- and as a bonus, I can absolutely guarantee that they're in a food coma from the amount of bones surrounding them. Unfortunately the image was a little blurry from some interference, likely from their horns, but I might run another scan physically in the nest. Not for the worms, but because I wanted to try and get a better look at a deeper tunnel I saw. The glacier only takes up so much landmass and the Ice Worms can only burrow through, well, ice. This second tunnel was extremely blurry on the original scan but it definitely scrapped the land underneath. If it was another worm, then why would they travel so far down? The nest was deep enough to just pass overhead, why go to such lengths? Or maybe it was a natural tunnel- in which case it could probably serve as easy access to the true surface minerals- the miners would love that. That was just a side interest to my current agenda, however.

     I slapped off my alarm and stretched out, accepting the morning light through my blinds. I had told everyone to come again for breakfast today and I'm proud to say that I was able to weasel some croissants and hash browns from Buddy. He didn't mind, it was just the use of residential benefits. Still, they were going to arrive in the next hour, so I wanted to freshen up and look like I did not have a hard time sleeping. 

     I won't lie and say that I've been pacing a little last night. I know this whole event is required of me and its dates were my doing, but at the same time I still worried. Holding that old satin scarf helped a bit- according to my parents, it represented luck and assurance, promising that all was going to go easy and smoothly, yet I wasn't sure if I truly believed that superstition. I always tend to imagine the worst case scenarios, putting myself in a mild frenzy of uncertainty- but how else do you plan for them? And thus I spent an hour drawing up possible solutions should anything arise, but one required confirmation of the existence of that deeper tunnel. Oddly enough, making those plans helped me get some peace of mind and finally pass out for the night- I noted the process down should I get another worrying fit.

     After the application of a shirt and slacks, I made my way over to our bathroom for the rest of the process. My hair was never the most cooperative, long and frizzy, but at least the dark brunette hue bleached easily enough for me to put these pretty streaks of teal in. Braid one side, big and thick, do the same with the other, any hair in the back, group together with a small tie, bring the two big braids together in the back, use the bright teal poofy hair tie to connect all three. My personal favorite braided fishtail look. Unfortunately I have to take it out every night and it's always such a pain to put it back up in the mornings, but it's a small price for keeping it out of my face. Same can't be said for the satin scarf as I tried it around my neck, knowing that one good whip of wind will send it flying straight into my face. It's kind of a pain, but it does keep my neck warm where my cold suit doesn't reach. Speaking of which, I had slipped it on a moment ago and had just tied the scarf on it, moving to finalize the set by sliding on my fur cuffed, brown leather jacket. I couldn't go for long without having something over my arms- I don't know why, I just always wear jackets even in the boiling heat of summer.

     I let out another yawn, wandering off to the main dining space. Jerry was already posted at his favorite table by the window with two men I didn't recognize. They likely were the PRAWN guys he mentioned earlier. One was older with a black stubble coated chin and unkept hair, fiddling with a toothpick in his mouth over a missing tooth. The other kept himself orderly, like a soldier waiting for a command, a mirror opposite of the first with a clean face and even cleaner blonde hair, dark tan skin as if he laid out in the sun just right.

     I shyly waved at the group, “Morning, did Sally arrive yet?”

“Yeah, she's just using this floor’s bathroom- need anything?” Jerry looked up from his PDA, likely playing a swipe/match puzzle game.

“No, just getting a head count- those your PRAWN guys?” I gestured to the two men sitting with him, of which glanced over at me.

“Yep, these are my best guys- Maynard,” The dark haired man waved, “And Rob.” The other shot me an equally shy smile.

“Sorry we couldn't make it yesterday.” Rob folded his hands on the table fiddling with the empty plate. 

“Oh, it's all good- priorities are priorities, did Jerry give you guys the rundown?” I made my way over to the counter and tapped in my ID, letting whoever was checking things over this morning to send over our breakfast. I honestly should've done this before everyone got here, but better late than never.

“Yep, gather eggs, move stray chunks of ice or worm, aid in defensive measures should anything arise- and enjoy a good hearty breakfast.” Maynard waved a fork at me and Rob quietly nodded.

“Cool, cool, and the breakfast will make this all worthwhile.” I glanced over at the counter where a couple plates of croissants and hash browns sat ready for consumption. I always had a preference for a savory breakfast- made any later treats all the better.

“Plus there was mention of a hefty paycheck.” Maynard leaned forward, narrowing his eyes.

“Yep, a bit over five thousand credits for each of us- if it was just me it’d be a solid twenty five.” I chuckled then realized that maybe I should've just kept it between Jerry, Sally, and me, but we needed the extra PRAWNs, just in case. 

“Nice of them to split it, plus five thousand will help to keep anyone going for a couple years outside this frozen puddle.” Jerry grinned at me, but also the steaming snacks behind me.

I chuckled after noticing that, “I'll let you guys enjoy breakfast, but I wanted to bring something up with Sally-”

“Ya need me?” The poofy blonde came up behind me without much notice, causing me to jump a bit, but she quickly apologized.

“Hi, Sal- uh yeah I wanted to bring something up I noticed on my scan of the tunnel to you.”

“Biz stuff?” She tilted her head, pale blue eyes meeting mine.

“Kinda,” I shrugged and grabbed a plate for myself, passing another to her, “I’ll pull up the images, but do help yourself- eating good this morning.”

“Why not mention sometin’ ‘bout it during the meeting yesterday?” She took a couple croissants and followed me to a separate table from the guys.

“I just wanted to run through a personal assessment first, but I have reason to believe that there might be surface access underneath the Ice Worms’ nest.” I started shaking some salt onto my hash.

“Reckon one of them did it?” She brushed one of the giant curls out of her face, revealing the splotchy vitiligo patches underneath. She's always been sensitive about them, but I thought they were cute.

“I can't be certain, Sal, this could be a natural tunnel or it's a worm tunnel. My scan picked up some interference so I couldn't make out the shape that well.” I shrugged, still pouring salt on my hash.

“Hm, not sure where the interference came from but . . . no- nah, it's not that- probably just the worms’ horns- what did it bounce back?” She shook her head.

“I looked at the scan, but not the signal graphics- I was more intrigued by the fact that it could serve as access to surface minerals- the good stuff.” I finally accepted the salt content of my meal and took a fork to it.

“Could ya pull the signal graphics up?” 

“Yeah,” I gave my PDA a few taps, trying to find the information from yesterday when . . . nothing came back, “Huh, well I don't remember deleting it- but that doesn't matter, we can check again in the nest.” I went in to take a bite of my croissant as she hummed again, confusion marred with worry in her eyes.

“Whatsa matter?” I asked.

“Oh, nothin’ this just- that's just off- because there shouldn't be- it has to have just been the worms, it doesn't make sense otherwise.”

“What is it?” 

“We're just gonna have ta take another scan, but after we look at the graphs, I’ll take over about that tunnel.” She scratched her forehead.

“It's kinda weird huh?”

“Very, but for now let's focus on the eggs . . . and I thought you were happy with the amount of salt on that.”

“There can never be too much salt on potato snacks.” I shook a bit more on the hash. 

She rolled her eyes with a smile, going back to her own meal.

     I will admit, there's nothing like freshly fried hash browns in the morning- it's a special treat for days like this. The mission was undoubtedly dangerous, but as long as we were patient and quiet, everything should go over just fine. Even better still that blooming paycheck- it's gonna be enough to get me on my feet returning back to Earth to get my own home. Materials don't cost as much as a full house- plus they just give you a habitat builder and tell you to do what you want with it as long as it stays on its own plot. Of course I'd still be working- I'm not retiring, except from this planet, maybe I could take a job studying shark evolution or do some aquarium work- something fun just to supply me with enough money for utilities, groceries, and treats. Getting the habitat isn’t as hard or expensive as it used to be- again thank the fabricators and builder tools. But it’ll be another three years til then and all my credits from this mission are going straight to my savings as with most of my other earnings. So far I have a happy thirty thousand, and by the end of this five year stint, I'd be set for the next fifteen years on its own- it's rare to do that well in Alterra space, but they pay high on danger, as long as they don’t see you as disposable. It took years to prove myself vital in behavioral analysis- moreover the dough I’ve saved them in Ice Worm attack damages.

    The guys finished up their meals nice and quick, but I've always been a slow eater. Mainly because I savor things, but when stuff tastes good you just gotta. The others here typically describe me as a “foodie” because of that and also my crazy dream to someday try every variety of cheese- so far I’ve only had half of all Earth’s cheeses and some from this planet. If you don't have provolone on speed dial, you make it yourself and try not to lose a limb. 

     Anyway, I finished out my hash and checked back with everyone to see if they were ready. According to them they have been for a while, but I was too- just had to hop on the Snowfox and go.

“Everyone got the cords?” I swiped a hand over my PDA.

A unanimous yes followed and as a group we exited out the base into the freezing air blowing wild.

     The weather predictions around here are not really the best due to ocean effect storms, but today was supposed to be clear skies and calm. The dark clouds and whipping wind claimed otherwise. A blizzard was sure to follow, but the pressure wasn't quite right to craft it yet. As long as we were swift in our quest, it shouldn't be an issue. 

Sally wiped a bit of snow from her purple bike's dash, “If a blizzard don't do it- the wind’ll bury us in the floof.” 

“As someone who once stood in the same spot outside for five hours, I can confirm your assessment,” I shrugged, wiping the snow off mine as well, “It shouldn't be an issue once we enter the tunnel.”

“Hopefully- do you wanna run the scan as we trek underground or?”

“I’ll just do it in the nest- plus I could make a 3D model while I'm at it.” I mounted the bike’s saddle and kicked off from its charging pad. Sally did the same and leaned on her hand,

“That’d be nice to put in one of your articles- plus it might help with raising the beasties- give ‘em the right environment,” She took a quick peek at her PDA, “But I still worry about that interference- ya know I'm the curious type.”

“Well, we’ll see- but I'm more concerned about the surface access- think our bosses would be too- anyway, the PRAWN guys are coming, we should get on the trail.” I waved the exosuit operators over and directed them to follow me. 

. . .

     The wind continued to harass us with scattered snow, yet it wasn’t too much of a pain. My main worry was having a blizzard wave in if the worms grew feisty, still I chose to ignore the weather, trying to keep focus on our plan. It didn’t take long to return back to the gapping tunnel from Monday, the corpse of one of the smaller bucks still remained forgotten by the male. Interestingly, no lesser predators came to claim it. Sally asked about it and my simplified synopsis was that it wasn’t meant to be taken by another. When an Ice Worm dies, it feeds the protozoans and bacterial organisms, as if by choice, and the other predators seem to respect it. Either that, or those protozoans and bacterial organisms get to the corpse first and make it inedible with toxins- they tend to do that around here, it’s why fish spoil so quickly unless salt-cured. 

     In any case, we began the descent into the tunnel’s icy maw, and the trek down its length. In a way, it reminded me of walking through the shed skin of some massive serpent from how it twisted and curved under the glacial ice. Course I always marvel at such forces of nature, but the others of my group weren’t as interested in that- I need to maintain my focus as well. 

      I timed my run through the tunnel on Tuesday to be about half an hour, but with the PRAWNs we had to add another thirty minutes. At least no one asked me “are we there yet?”- I’m tense enough, I didn’t need someone playing toddler on top of that. However; my worries were proven to be quite the opposite as the tunnel began to open up and reveal the nest, the song of the alpha worms’ peaceful snores reminding us to stay silent. Moreover they were massive- especially the female, roughly fifteen meters larger than her mate. Steam rose from their blazing horns as they coiled around each other, warmth filling the nest, ice melting above. Within their knotted forms rested the clutch they carefully guarded, approximately seven black eggs, adorned with glowing points of fire between the cabbage-like layers- heck the eggs themselves looked like charred cabbage. 

     Keeping my excitement at bay I gestured to Sally to follow me further and perform a mini reconnaissance mission. The PRAWNs understood why they had to remain still of course. The two of us parked our bikes at the “entrance” and we immediately began taking our scans and documentation. 

“First time seeing an Ice Worm nest.” I whispered to her as she swiped to her PDA’s note taker.

“I gotta sketch those eggs later, but that’s a later thing- keep it together deer girl- I’m gonna run a scan here.” I set up a tripod for my PDA

“How big would you say this is?” She tilted her head.

“It’s not the average size, I can tell you that much, probably double the size of a normal nest, but I’d have to see one for myself.” 

“Scans drawing anything? The lower tunnel?”

“Ah- lemme just-“

. . . - - - . . .

We both stopped and stared dead at the worms who shuffled only slightly, “ . . . I- I didn’t do that.” I held my hands free from the tripod.

“Probably just the water from the ceiling,” Sally awkwardly smiled, “Just uh, don’t do it again.”

“I didn’t- nevermind, but uh I am definitely picking up a lot of interference-“

. . . - - - . . .

“Okay that has to be one of the PRAWN guys- I swear I’m not doing that,” I paused and switched the scan over to the signal graphics, Sally approached me to examine them as well, “It- it’s just a mess in here- it wasn’t this bad yesterday.”

“Wait, Doe,” Sally tilted the screen closer to herself, watching the lines gradually form and vanish, “Can you play it again?”

“Sally I didn’t-“

“I know you didn’t, but I’m just testing if it was the guys-“

. . . - - - . . .

“Ah there! Look!” She pointed to a region on the scan that looked like some string of . . . letters? “I don’t think that’s a tunnel beneath us- it’s something much more artificial- this graph proves it!” She smiled at me, trying to contain her own excitement, “You might’ve discovered something very- very special here, but one mission before another, think the PRAWNs can complete their task?”

“Uh, yeah, but what now?” I shook my head at her.

“Sector 0 overall is a hotspot for this sort of thing, but I’ve never seen a signal this strong before- especially that it’s playing through your PDA- I’ll explain it to you later, but just know you’re in for more than five thousand credits.” She playfully smacked my back as the strange call played again.

“Uh- I’m- I’m not sure how to react to that but, one thing at a time alright.” I awkwardly smiled at her and waved over the guys.

Jerry bent down to me and lowered his PRAWN’s visor, “How many?”

“Seven, but they’re big- each of you can take two and I’ll handle the last, I brought my bike’s trailer for that.”

“And another thing,” Maynard joined, “What’s this about a raised paycheck?”

“Only something between the deer and I,” Sally snorted, “Classified via HR protocols.”

“Geez, what did I find?” I gaped at her.

“I’ll explain it when we get back to base- but I’d recommend you finish running the scan image of the nest.” She patted my back again and let me return back to running my scan.

Jerry led the stealthy charge to gathering the eggs, cautiously leaning his PRAWN over the worms’ coils and gently plucking the first egg. 

. . . - - - . . . again the tone played.

My scan reached 30%

The guys collected the next two eggs, leaving four left.

50%

Another egg.

. . . - - - . . . the tone sang out, stronger this time.

I shuffled in place, taking note of the signal graphic’s sudden rise in activity.

“When you guys are full up you’re free to make way for Epsilon- Doe and I will investigate things a little further here.” Sally directed and shot me a glance to make sure it was okay- I obliged.

70%

. . . - - - . . . louder.

Jerry had taken the second to last egg and was getting ready to fish out the final one for me, “So, how long do you think it’ll take for them to hatch?”

“Not sure, it could require an enzyme of some sort or just time.” I shrugged, 

90%

“Could I get clued in on that noise now that Rob and Maynard are gone?” 

“I don’t know what it is either, but I honestly think we should just go after this.” I looked over at Sally who had her eyes locked on the glacial floor, staring down into it- no through it.

“. . . I’m gonna need to contact site Lambda for this- you gotta see this.” She looked back up at me.

“Lambda?” I walked over to her- Jerry following, meeting her gaze down the glassy segment of ice.

A green light.

“Detecting an unknown broadcast. Linguistic analysis cannot be made.”

My PDA suddenly blared and one of the worms chirped, raising its head. The three of us immediately jumped back, Jerry drawing his PRAWN in front. A low growl built in its gullet- massive leviathan- teeth bared.

“Uh- Doe?!” The burly man squeaked.

“Just don’t make a sound-“

“Playing partially translated broadcast: ~\_\_~\_~_[…^<…<HERE^…^<…[>[>\[>>]\.”

SKREEEHAAAWWWAAA!

Immediately the worm howled and its mate arose- tails rapidly uncoiling and smashing against the walls of the nest. Jerry drew back one of the PRAWN’s arms preparing to fight- yet was smashed away by one of the tails!

“JERRY!” I screamed and grabbed onto Sally who cried out in tune. We immediately began to bolt for our bikes- only for a flaming horn to smash into the ice in front of me- separating us, “SALLY- JUST KEEP GOING!” I yelled as a second horn slammed down beside me! 

KAAAAWWWWAAAAA!

The walls began crumbling- ice melting above- Jerry bolted over to me- PRAWN leaping over the wild tails, "GIVE ME YOUR HAND!”

I heard a Snowfox roar to life- Sally was able to escape- She had the final egg in hand- fear in her eyes- I raised my hand out to Jerry-

SKRRRAAAAAWWWAAAAA!

A horn smashed deep into the ice in front of me- breaking away and missing the claw of the PRAWN. My seismic detector went wild, the floor losing stability and shattering.

The howls grew distant,

Time slowed,

I saw the panic in his eyes as they rose beyond my range,

I fell through.

Chapter Text

     Cold water lapped against my legs and side, amplifying the pain along my back. I didn't know how far I fell, the roars were so distant, but the worms were still in a frenzy. Another sway of water, this time stroking my face. I grunted and tried to get up- immediately worsening the pain. My right leg was definitely not in the best state, but if I bit down hard enough, maybe I could at least get out of the water. 

Your environment is no longer safe, syncing PDA to AEP . . .

“Damn right it ain't- gah- shoulda said that earlier, but better now than never I guess.” I dragged myself out of the pool and finally examined my surroundings. The icy ceiling stretched far above me, but I could see the hole where I fell in, definitely too far to climb back out of, however, there was an odd light shining on the water that I didn't pay much mind to- assuming it to simply be from above, moreover the strange, black rocks littered about.

Detecting an unknown energy signature- cannot perform environmental scan.

“Course you bug out on me when I need you- can you send a message at least?” I plucked the device off my hip, immediately cringing at the nasty crack in its center.

Searching . . . No known channels detected, one unknown channel available, do you still wish to send a message?

“In a moment,” I braced myself on one of the odd black rocks and rose to my feet, grunting a little as I finally took note of how the ground was much more metallic past the stray sand, “Are you sure you can't scan here?” I furrowed my brow and brushed a bit of dust off the rock, noting how it looked far too angular to be natural, having a clear slate on top of it.

Attempting scan . . . I am able to read your direct vicinity, would you like an assessment?

“Yes- there's just something off about this.” I started to cast my eyes around the room, noticing more of the same odd black rocks- those ones slightly shorter and containing bioluminescent plants, strangely resembling common pot planters.

In combination with prior scan data, you are currently in an unexplored cave system on the surface beneath the glacier, however, it is mostly comprised of a large artificial structure, detecting an increase in interference, cannot scan further.

Again I furrowed my brow, “Uh, any idea on how to get out of here at least- and what do you mean artificial structure?”

There is a large energy signature nearby.

“And what's that supposed to-”

Unable to identify the technology used, hand performed scan required.

“What do you mean undefined- tech . . . -nology?” I turned around to the wall of the cave where a blazing green light met my vision. Carved into the stone under the ice resided a gateway in a black metal I've never seen before. The rocks I saw must've been the same material- it wasn't rocks- this wasn't natural- someone was here before me.

“Uh, PDA?”

Known channel available, designation; HR Sally R. would you like to contact this channel?

“Ah uh yes-yes absolutely- yeah,” I stuttered, unable to take my eyes off the green gateway, “Where the hell am I.” I whispered into the thin air.

“Doe?-Doe!” Sally's voice cut through the quiet hum of the gate’s energy.

“I'm here! Alive for now!- Just relieved to hear another human.” I tilted the screen to me and initiated its video call feature, revealing the rightfully shaken up HR secretary on the other side, but thankfully back at an Alterran base.

“I'm glad you're still here too! But uh, where is here?”

“I was just about to ask you the same thing- I don't know how I'm gonna get outta here- ceiling’s too high,” I tilted the screen up to show her, “But uh, there's something you really- REALLY- need to see.” I turned the screen back to the strange gateway, immediately striking a gasp from Sally.

“OH MY- uh Doe- I- I- you're standing in an- an alien base right now!”

“Alien?- wait, you mean like Architects?!” I almost dropped my PDA in shock.

“Exactly! And knowing them- there's probably a way out through the base- but I must ask that you exercise EXTREME caution as you do- just use the open doorways and don't touch anything! Mainly for your safety, but also to not disturb the site too much,” She gestured back to the gate, “Do you see a terminal port? Or rather a weird looking table with a slanted top?”

“Uh,” I wandered closer, noting the warmth produced by the glistening forcefield, “Yeah there's a weird looking rock here that matches your description.” 

“Perfect! It's just that some bases don't have them- if you approach it, the top should open up revealing a symbol of some sort.” She guided as I crept over to the “terminal”, limping still from the fall. Then, exactly as she stated, the top opened up, shaking off the crust of sediment and shone a bright purple symbol- something like a “U”.

“It opened up alright- uh I'm assuming you wanna know what it has- a purple U.” I hovered my hand over the glinting mark.

“Good- good- U keys were the most common for the Architects- the one that was there originally must've been removed- it's probably laying around somewhere in your current position- it'll look like a black tablet with a similar U symbol.” She instructed precisely, and I simply nodded in response.

     This segment of the alien base looked like it was intended to be some sort of garden. It couldn't have served as an entrance due to the extent of the glacier above it so it must've been a leisure space, especially considering the strange flowers growing from the black pots. The pond I had landed in was boarded by a platform of more of the black metal creating something better comparable to a wading pool, but sure enough, a glint of purple resided along its shores. Thankfully it was left easily accessible, just a couple limps to the other side was all I needed. The pink flowers in the pots caught my eyes the most, angularly shaped with rhombus-like petals. If it were up to me, I would've taken one back for Tammy- she's always interested in new flora, but with mostly everything here being unknown to me, I had to treat it like it was poisoned. Still, I took a quick photo of it, absentmindedly leaning down to grab the tablet. It was kinda heavy, but not by much, kinda stuck on something, but nothing a good few tugs couldn't handle. I brushed off the sand from the screen, presenting the glittering purple U that supposedly led to my way out of here. I smirked at it and began to limp my way back over to the terminal, completely missing the odd coppery bone where the forgotten key laid. 

     The rest of the process was as simple as placing the tablet in the terminal and the gate was lowered, “So I got it open, but uh-” The dark expanse on the other side occasionally flickered with an emerald green light in the walls, a state of low power and disrepair, “-You sure the way out is through?- looks pretty uh, imposing.”

“Doe, you play with ninety-five meter long death worms on a daily basis- the old Architect bases are relatively safe- nothing to eat you at least.”

“Very reassuring- can your scans see anything- like a path through I mean?” A warm breeze brushed against me from within, carrying a strange scent with it.

My PDA began producing an odd clicking sound, “Unfortunately I can't reach it from here- moreover- t-there is- a- a- sp-ike - in t-the-e-e inter-feeerrr-eeenn-ce-”

. . . - - - . . . 

Bold and present, the signal from earlier forcing itself through my device’s speakers.

“Sally?- everything alright? Can you still?-”

“Y-you’re- bbb-brea-king up- on- mmmmyyyy- en-d- I'm- goonnn-naaa- haaavv-e to- let you- go,” She might've sighed on the other end, but I couldn't tell through the rising static, “Th-ere- is- . . . - - - . . . some-thing- PDA- detecting- . . . - - - . . . be- ca-reful- co-mmmeeeeee ba-cckk . . . - - - . . . alive.” 

Connection Terminated

“. . . Well, I guess it's just us then, PDA.” I shrugged and returned the broken device to my hip- going to search my bag for anything useful. The fall had definitely damaged some of my equipment, but at least I had the necessities on hand. A couple salt cured jerky Peepers, two bottles of water- oh, the little bag of fruit snacks was a welcome treat, I could use a little sugar- and surprisingly, my Propulsion Canon fared much better than my Stasis Rifle. The battery was just as charged as it was this morning, none of the prongs were damaged, plus it could come in handy if I found any collapsed sections of the alien base. My flashlight was still in working order too- perfect for glowing up the dark base in front of me.

     Upon activating my light, a seemingly endless hallway stretched on before me- faint flickers of green awakening with my presence. Definitely too dark otherwise, but it was the smell that really caught me off guard. Semi-sterile like bleach, but there was this undertone that reminded me of . . . decay? It was too faint to truly make out. The green lights grew brighter as I continued on, the occasional cream of black metal pillars rising and lowering along the edges of the hall. One of which had a brighter green light atop of it. Curiosity being my driving force, I approached it, finding a glistening green cube at its source. 

“Hey, PDA? What do you make of this?” My voice echoed off the walls, bouncing back: . . . - - - . . . quiet and faint.

This green mineral substance has no entry on the periodic table and seems to store immense amounts of energy within it- equivalent to five kilotons of TNT, however, it is in an extremely stabilized state, it could have applications as a power source through an advanced fabrication process- it is recommended that you bring such materials directly to upper personnel.

“Uh, cool- is it safe to touch?” I hovered a hand over the crackling green crystal.

Yes, it produces a weak heat and may help with staying warm, it is perfectly harmless in this state.

“Thanks.” I shrugged and gently plucked the cube from its pedestal, noting how it made my fingers tingle warmly. The other pedestals in the hallway must've had some too, but they weren't present.

     I proceeded onwards until I finally came across a massive central chamber, opening huge and wide like the rumored Containment Facility at the bottom of the explored Crater territory. I gaped in awe, a soundless wow passing my lips. Intricate designs layered the walls and floors, the strange rocks from outside revealed themselves to serve as lanterns in this space, the upper balcony looked down upon me as what I was; an accidental visitor to this forgotten temple. From where I entered, there were six off-shooting paths from the room’s center and a seventh in the back leading to a vertical hallway filled with green light- the upper deck having the same orientation. However; what caught my attention the most was a massive hexagonal tank in the center of the room, filled with a vibrant blue fluid. A terminal sat quietly in front of it, yet every nerve in my body knew not to even look at it- just something about it felt . . . imposing- not really dangerous, but just imposing. 

     I quickly averted my eyes and moved to examine the doorways- maybe one of them led to an exit, but I didn’t know if those aliens used exit signage. Maybe they did, but I just couldn’t tell. Going through the first doorway on the bottom left revealed a large hexagonal sub-chamber with a central platform covered in angular metallic debris, no lights shone in this room. There were several large- very large- benches along the walls adorned in what looked like velvety pillows, occasionally broken up by tables and overgrown potted plants. It looked like it was meant to be some kind of rest space. It was heavily implied in most of the discovered artifacts and bases that Architects didn't prioritize such things during their time on 4546B at least, all it did was beg the question as to what this place was further. I backed out and moved to the next room which contained a similar sight, dark, scattered debris, cushy setup surrounding it- almost a mirror image, but I wasn't sure how the debris was laid out so similarly.

     I then went to check the third room on the left, an eerie, weak green glow flickering from within. My PDA droned the same sound as before, clicking with static the closer I got until-

The light went out.

Cr- cr- CRASH

I jumped back, but in the shadows of the fading light, I saw something collapse. Upon poking my head in, the lights still weakly flickered, yet the debris pile was much more recent.

“What happened-”

Detecting an Alien Broadcast, attempting translation:

{°{×==§==✓}= PO °°{✓}}✓§✓ CRIT=}°=}{§

Again I jumped, “Can you stop initiating random scans and procedures for five seconds?!” I groaned then turned back away, shooting a glance back just to see the faint lights embedded in the angular debris fade to black. Something was definitely wrong about this place- so many of the old remnants of technology have survived on full power for thousands of years and yet- it felt like this place was dying. I shuttered and noticed a room on the other side beginning to flicker as well- as if the power loss was happening one by one, yet curiously, this one had only just started to flicker. 

     My PDA droned the odd signal again, but it felt much more clear than the previous calls. I cautiously approached the glowing entrance from the black metal door frame, turning to peer inside where I was nearly blinded. In the very center of the room, towering far above me was this massive floating cube, forged of the same chunks of debris from the other rooms, green light channeling through its core, holding it suspended over a central platform.

“. . . Architects . . . You never cease to amaze me.” I mouthed and approached closer. Was this facility some sort of storage? An archive of information? 

“. . . Can you run a scan, PDA?”

Attempting scan . . . ERROR, object you are attempting to scan is <ERROR>

I didn’t react to its faulty assessment, too drawn by the cube’s angler’s light. Despite seeming immotile in its suspended state, I swear it was . . . watching me. I tilted my head and the cube seemed to do the same. I coyly waved at it, testing if it would react and strangely, a small chunk of the black metal shuttered to mimic me. I drew in closer still, mouth hanging slightly agate, standing on my toes, and stretching an arm towards the structure . . . a chunk of glowing black metal doing the same.

“. . . Hello?”

My other hand reached forwards to brace on-

{[^^[{{{TRANSFERING ]{} [{]{}[^_VESSEL ]<![7{[\[>>\[[]][^LOW

“Ah- I didn’t mean-“ The terminal immediately in front of me lit up with a bright green symbol I had yet to see:

}> 

“Uh PDA, I may have screwed up-“

A loud siren wailed over head and the green light of the cube flashed in an unknown pattern before several black cables rose to connect into it, fanning the long chunks of metal open and revealing a central light brighter than the sun- I screamed and ducked down, covering my head- too bright- what’s happening!? What did I do?! It was an accident! I’m sorry I’m sorry- I’m-

Cr- Cr- 

Oh . . . Oh no- no no-

I bolted out of the room- chunks of black metal crashing down after me and I practically fell over onto the hard floor just outside the door, still covering my head- “Stupid-stupid-stupid-“ I groaned and raised my head, only to see a vibrant green channel flare to life beneath me- I jumped back only to watch as it slowly shifted to a soft hue of pale pink the closer it got . . . to the central tank.

“. . . I am so fired-“ I scrambled to my feet and quickly got to the terminal in front of the device which carried the same }> symbol, the siren blared again overhead as the “standby” lights of the tank erupted in the same pink light-

<][]{]<>{[[]>> COMMENCING STORAGE [{{><[^]}}><[[]{ FABRICATION- WARNING []{}[[{}}!<[\{}}{ LOW

Several black cables extended from the sides of the tank and began to extrude a mixture of a purple and blue material that I best could describe as a biological slurry into the center of the tank, other directed the flow, fusing the cells together and creating glowing meshes of tissue. I could do nothing but watch the process- more slurry filled the tank, some kind of lung-shaped structure forming connected to other large sacs and odd feathery tendons as if it was building some kind of organ system- wait. A thicker coppery mixture joined in and began weaving a honeycomb rib cage around the base formation, leading downwards into a long spine with a second lower ribcage- four legs stretching from the hips and towards the upper segment a set of clawed hands and arms took shape, heavy metal gauntlets fusing to the forearms- the body being formed gradually curling in on itself like an alien fetus. Skin began to mold over the coppery bone frame, building heart shape-scales down the back and forming thin fibrous tissue around the shoulders and thighs, twitching and shuddering as if the fur produced was another form of muscle. The skin and feathery tendons stretched up and over the skull, weaving through the grate formed by separations in the bone. A clear membrane formed directly the front, filling the space behind it with various muscle tissues, flickering with light to create what looked like a face, mouth slowly drooping open, revealing its glowing blue insides. A pair of shimmering chest pieces were gently attached around the open segments of its chest, filled with wires and an unknown mesh of organs, protecting them with care. The last bits of metal fused to the body’s head, forming a metal crest where a thin black cord was pulled free and stretched back into a port by one of the open fabricator arms, pink light filling its length and traveling into the body. Again the lights coating the body flared to life, relaxing to the pale pink glow that traveled further up its body and into the membrane, faintly revealing tightly shut eyes, a weak black fluid forming around the edges.

I dropped my flashlight at the sight, the shadow cast from the creature over me dwarfed me like some kind of alien god . . .

I could only breathe my words in awe, “. . . What are you?”

Two of the arms that fed it the bioslurry gently grasped its sides holding it aloft as the tank split down the middle- blue fluid spilling free into small drainage vents around its base. They carefully set the body down as its gills wheezed with the open air, revealing its true size to be no bigger than a small dog- like a newly born colt.

     Despite the arms placing it on its hooves, the small creature immediately collapsed onto its side, making a quiet groan through its warbling vocal cords- or was it an internal vocalizer?

     I very- VERY cautiously crept over to it, staying on all fours in a crawl as I neared it, drawing my knife as if it would save me, but . . . what did I even do?

“Uh- don’t move! I- I can defend myself.” I tried to hold a commanding tone.

The creature weakly raised its head to me, black liquid pouring from its “eyes”.

“I’m- I’m not scared of you-“

^]]{{[]{}}}{<[[{}}? . . . ^]{{[^]}{{?! It squeaked at me in some garbled mess of robotic, deer-like chirps.

I cleared my throat, but noticed the sudden shift from pink to yellow in its glowing stripes, “. . .” I lowered my knife, “. . . Are . . . you more scared of me?” 

It squeaked again in the same manner, pawing with its weird claw hands.

“. . . I don’t know what’s happening either, little thing.”

It growled at that, but shrunk further back from me.

“Look- we’re both scared, but I think it would help if we’re somewhere safer- maybe back at my base or- . . . -You're talking to some animal again, Doe, it can’t understand you- can’t go talking to fish, or penguins, or seals- they can’t respond back,” I sighed and smacked my face, “I’m- I’m gonna try picking you up, it’s just not safe here-“ I stretched my arms out to the small creature towards the back half and before I could even touch it-

SKREAHH!

It smashed a hoof into my side, sending me back and rapidly rose to its feet- with not even a blink it was practically gone.

I grunted and scrambled back to my feet, rubbing at my side where it’d likely bruise in the morning “What the actual- wait!” I called after it . . . wherever it went. However; a trail of thick blue fluids from its creation could lead the way for me. I forced the pain of my limp down and began to track it towards the seventh entrance in the room which had the vertical hallway, but a more horizontal path made itself visible beyond it.

“Okay that’s a door I guess- how did you?- Nevermind- just please come back!” Under my breath: “What did I get myself into?” 

I chased it down its path of blue, noting how it kept poking into doorways and coming back out, in and out, in and out, like it was looking for the same thing I was- a way out. The trail finally led me close enough to hear the patter of hooves in one of the larger rooms. With the knowledge that the creature could fight back, I quietly snuck up to the entrance, peering in to see it pacing around. 

“[[}[\]\[}[]]{}\ . . . Trr . . . [\[∆{]\]\]\]?” It chirped and whined uncomfortably, colors rapidly shifting between red, blue, and yellow- then it spotted me staring at it.

“TRR CHIRP CHIRP }[\]\]]\=§{∆]?!?!?” It squealed and shrunk back, rapidly shifting its head around.

“Hey, hey, hey- I'm sorry I scared you- I’m scared too- but it's not safe here- I just wanna help you-”

“TRR! [][{}}°{}[[[]{\\! CLICK TR!” It rapidly shot towards a section of the room out of my view and before I could even react it bolted past me fast enough to knock me down! 

“What in the-?!” I couldn't describe the speed at which that little creature flew out of the room and down the hallway- I wasn't too stunned this time and I immediately gave chase. Running down after it, a sudden green flash erupted from the room the colt was in- I gasped- “Wait- no- no no- please don't make things worse-” I staggered into the room to see it staring into a blazing archway, shivering like it was scared of whatever the “portal” was, yet- it turned its head back to see me- made a noise- and jumped in without a second thought.

“Wait!” I cried and in the same manner I jumped in after it- only to be pulled in further by a force I couldn't comprehend. I couldn't scream- couldn't cry out- engulfed by light- too bright too bright too bright! Swirled, tossed, and thrown like a canoe in an ocean storm- growing faster and faster- roaring energy in my ears- 

Then it stopped.

And placed me gently down on a metal platform, light warbling from behind me. “So . . . that was a portal-” I collapsed on the ground, gonna be sick after this I know it, I groaned and fully spread myself out in a heap. Muffled grumbles of regret passed through me as I desperately fought the nausea from that portal, yet I was quickly stilled by the sensation of something poking my side- 

“. . . Tr?” The little creature was perfectly fine after traversing the glowing gate, however, its reaction to me not having fared so well was definitely intriguing. I didn’t move, scared I’d break the moment, but it genuinely seemed worried about me, despite its reasonable fears- wait. I noticed the opening this presented to me and I quietly apologized under my breath before shuffling my body just enough to lunge for it- then I flung myself forward!- and immediately flopped back on the cold ground. Shoulda guessed it would’ve darted off the moment I breathed, but the sound that followed chilled me to my core, nothing loud or intense, just a simple:

Splash

I quickly rose to my knees to examine the environment I was in, some underground cavern leading forth to another gateway holding back the ocean from spilling in. The ocean- the ocean on this planet. My heart sank and I scrambled to my feet to continue the creature’s insistent game of cat and mouse- but this isn’t the kind of place to do this! At least that facility was mostly enclosed but that godforsaken ocean- I swallowed and frantically rustled through my bag for a rebreather and thankfully for me it was broken- I just wouldn’t have more than seventy five seconds in the water, hopefully you didn’t flee too far- can you even breathe in there?

     I shed off my jacket down to just my cold suit- and dove in, propulsion cannon at my hip. The surface was too far to swim to, but just close enough to reveal the tall scraggly thermal vents and black sooty sands on the uneven terrain below. It vaguely reminded me of the Tree Spires, but this place just felt more . . . dead. I didn’t see any preyfish, just bleached flora and a seemingly endless horizon beyond. I retrieved myself from the vastness of it all and began paddling around my immediate vicinity. So many spots to hide, but just please- please don’t get yourself hurt. Then I noticed the creature’s dead giveaway- the glittering yellow lights on its body shining from a lower cavern, cornering itself. I slowly made my way down and to its hiding spot where it just flared brighter at me, but it didn’t fight back, just whining and shrinking back further.

I kept my voice soft, seating myself on the silty ground beside its crevice, “. . . Hey uh, I’m sorry- I don’t know what I did back there, but it built you- didn’t know how to react to that- I just never seen anything like it before.”

It turned its head to me, but remained in place, a single streak of green running down its scaly flank.

“Can- I know it’s a dumb question, but- can you understand me?” 

It nodded, but still squeezed itself further in the nook.

“I’m sorry if I scared you, but it really- REALLY isn’t safe in this planet’s oceans, could you . . . come out of there?” I shot a glance down at my air, having to push my drifting scarf away, a little under a minute remained.

It refused.

“. . . I know everything is very uncertain right now,” I bent in closer, “but I promise, I’m not gonna hurt you,” I held out my hand, drawing more green across its body, “You can trust me.”

Water flushed in through the slits on its neck and bubbled out the ones on the sides of its flank.

I didn’t see the shadow overhead.

“It’s okay.” I smiled at it and it tilted its head curiously, uncertain of the gesture, but it began to come closer to me, revealing its navy purple hide and uniquely centauric form.

“That’s it . . .” It held out its little claw to me, 

“Everything is going to be alright . . .” I offered my hand to it, when . . . 

I finally saw the shadow.

GRAAAAHHHHH!

The dark shape bolted out towards us! A howling mess of tusks and teeth ramming into the wall in a confused rage- turning back to roar again and pounce! I screamed and cowered down- sharp scales rushed by me.

Everything was such a blur in the attack until-

“TRR CHIRP- CHRIP!” The creature squealed and the beast roared again- tail smashing me back against the cavern wall- I struggled to get back up-my mask broken- air leaking faster- I needed to get-

“TRRR-CHIRR-CHIRP CHIRP!” Teeth smashed down- a flash of yellow- I watched in terror as the beast pinned down the small centaur and flesh tore-

Ripping a fur tufted leg from the creature’s body.

“CHRREEEAAAAHHH!!” It screamed- strong enough to have to cover my ears- bright neon blue staining the water.

The beast reared back to tear further into it- bladed teeth glinting in the yellow blaze of fear- 

Propulsion Cannon, on standby-

I shot up into the water- Cannon drawn and a boulder caught in its gravity beam- “YOU LEAVE IT ALONE!” I hauled the rock and slammed it into the beast, trapping it against the wall, a growling hissing mess. 

Warning, thirty seconds of oxygen remaining-

I returned my Cannon to my hip and scrambled to the creature’s side, “Nononononono-“ It whined underneath me, crying from the pain and the constant flow of blue clouding the water- what do I do?-

GRAAAAWWWWHHH!

The beast threw off the boulder and I immediately scooped up the centaur- bolting out of there before it had a chance to strike again! Frantically paddling my feet- the meniscus gateway just in front of me-

GRAMP CHRAMP CRA- GRAHRAAA-!

Teeth snapped behind me- gaining faster and faster- the creature cried again- blood fogging the water behind me-

Bweep Bewwep- Oxygen!

I crashed through into the air, immediately taking a greedy gulp once I crashed on the ground- the beast hissing and circling outside.

I panted watching it for a second until a soft whimper drew my attention back, “Oh- oh- oh my-“ Blood poured from the gapping sore- coppery stub of a bone surrounded by torn tendons- a body just crafted, just mutilated.

I quickly got to its side, mind racing- “Hey, shshshshsh- I uh- just breath-“

“Trrweehhh gah-Chr-Irrrmm-“ It groaned and squirmed- each cry growing weaker from blood loss- WAIT- the blood! How do I stop the-

My scarf, wet from the salty drag, yet strong and sturdy- I just needed- ah! that busted segment of my Rifle!

“I- I’m sorry- this is gonna hurt, but I need to stop that bleeding-“ The creature immediately squealed and thrashed the moment I set a hand on it- soon having to put my body weight over its upper half just to get it to stay still as I wrapped the scarf around its flank and over the wound- tighter, tighter, and tighter still- it howled and thrashed beneath me- I tightened it to its max and pulled it into a taunt knot with the Rifle’s barrel. 

A makeshift tourniquet, but it should hold until I get back to base.

Once the last knot was tied, I slowly took my weight off it, the creature stiff from the sensation- overstimulated maybe, but at least stable.

“. . . I’m- I’m sorry, but it just needed to stop bleeding.” I panted and finally sat back, the weight of the ordeal- everything that happened today- finally taking hold.

The centaur slowly raised its head to me, yellow and gray lights on max,

“T-trill?”

“It’ll hold . . . for now . . . just . . . you can breathe now, we’re safe,” I slouched back, “You’re safe . . .”

. . . Amidst the swirling fear and pain in its lights, faintly for just a moment; a warm shade of pink bloomed . . . then shut off, and it fell to its side, limp.