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Chapter 3. Chronicles of Metem: First Win.

  First Win.

  Chapter 3.

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

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

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

  their unwavering commitment to the preservation of their kind.

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

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

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

  vanquished a formidable native predator.

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

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

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

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

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

  appointing two exceptional individuals to lead it:

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

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

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

  and northern forests.

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

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

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

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

  aware of the task at hand.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  foundations of our society.”

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

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

  sustenance and nourishment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  expressions a blend of determination and humility.

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

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

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

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

  existence on this alien land."

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

  renovating chamber of their headquarters.

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

  seat number 12.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  strategies for enhancing our proficiency in these areas.

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

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

  restriction that was placed.

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

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

  acknowledged.

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

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

  business wanting to explore the outside walls.

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

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

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

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

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

  take decisive action to ascertain their fate.

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

  distribution.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

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

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

  deserve answers, and we as a people need closure.

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

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

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

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

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

  Escort Requirement, Resource Management, Emergency Preparedness, Communication

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

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

  the combine support of everyone.

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

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

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

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

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

  strains and came down with alien sickness.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  hearts of the people.

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

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

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

  and reassess the feasibility of a limited search operation.

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

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

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

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

  we face."

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

  understanding.

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

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

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

  the serpents of fate."

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

  implications.

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

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

  way amidst nature's chaotic tapestry."

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

  thoughts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  leaving little chance for survival without immediate medical aid.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  ensure the safety of all involved.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  of Healthcare.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  burnout within their personal pursuits.

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

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

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

  can create incentives and boost productivity.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  all necessary factors for its success.

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

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

  can do work together.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  properly address these challenges.”

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

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

  some time.

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

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

  provide some insight into this?

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

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

  significantly, and.

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

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

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

  topic of Resource Gathering for another occasion.

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

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

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

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

  meeting.

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

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

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

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

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

  possess unusual properties related to energy transfer and molecular reactivity.

  Joe: What the fuck does that mean?

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

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

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

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

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

  potential applications in materials science.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Preliminary examinations indicate that the root possesses a remarkable heat transfer

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

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

  biological mechanisms unknown to us.

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

  dangers that might follow this discovery.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  advantage in safeguarding our perimeter.”

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

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

  health, defence, and overall resilience of their settlement.

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