Nymph-grotto

Star Trek: Odyssey

Aitera / nymph-grotto

Narrator BOT 09-Dec-21 04:39 PM

*In a large opening, sat an iridescent pool of cool water, and in the center sat a small island with a beautiful tree who's branches held vibrant pink flowers. Orbs of light danced in the air like lightning bugs, and high above was what looked like an opening, but was a collection of bright golden orbs that emitted a soft warm light.*

Original message was deleted or could not be loaded.

Lt. Cmdr. T'Pel Kestra 09-Dec-21 04:39 PM

Pinned a message.

Narrator BOT 09-Dec-21 05:33 PM

*By the tree, three unconscious people lay. One in black and red, another in black and blue, the last in black and orange. All bound by the wrists and ankles.*

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Lt. Xander Spica 09-Dec-21 05:43 PM

*Xander was just laying there, looking at the tree and the lake.* "You know, as far as kidnapping things go, they at least have a good taste of residence."

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 09-Dec-21 05:59 PM

*Consciousness, sudden, violent. Serapia coughed up a storm as she came to the land of the awake. The last thing she remembered was being dragged from the surface and into the water by some thing. That same thing probably took Harry as well. Due to the fact the Serapia still drew breath meant this thing had some need of her...and others? Serapia tried moving but she soon realized that she was bound by her hands and wrists, leaving her only allowed to roll around in the dirt and squirm like a Gore-Bore Worm, a creature on her home planet. She heard a voice and attempted to turn her body to face it. It was the science Lieutenant...and she could see Harry laying on the ground as well!* "Lieutenant! Honored Lieutenant Spica! Are you unafflicted?" *She asked in a high whisper.*

Lt. Xander Spica 09-Dec-21 06:03 PM

"Yeah yeah, I'm fine." *He shrugged and leaned back a bit, talking in a normal tone. Knowing he got pulled into a rock, he suspected that the creatures were everywhere and anywhere.* "And it's just Xander, not Honored Lieutenant. What's your name, miss?" *He said with a smile as he looked at her.*

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 09-Dec-21 06:13 PM

*Serapia had a determined look on her face as she responded to the man.* "Apologies Xander, I am Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina. It appears we are in quite a predicament. We must find a way to unbind ourselves, perhaps if you can find a sharp object...my sword! Xander, is my sword on my person, have you seen them take it?" *She asked not being able to reach behind herself.*

PO3 Harry Lynton 09-Dec-21 07:23 PM

*Harry had taken a little bit longer to actually wake up. He had inhaled a good amount of water and he had passed out while being dragged. So he finally began to slowly awake to the sound of voices. Voices had he had heard before, especially the woman’s voice. As consciousness began to become a reality for the crewman, he began to spit out some of the remaining water as his eyes adjusted to the light differences. He didn’t really remember what had happened except for being dragged under the water. His reaction began to turn from confusion to fear. A quick tug would make him realize his arms are tied, and it just make him look down to make the realization of his legs being restrained. His breathing began to become much more noticeable, as a way to show that he was awake. He’d struggle again with more might to remove the restrains in some vain attempt, logic being replaced by animalistic nature.* “Where…are we? Why are we tied up?”

Water Nymph BOT 09-Dec-21 08:11 PM

*A curious creature, this one, who was brave enough to peek ever so little up and out of the water. Just the top of her head and her yellow glowing eyes, as she stared at Harry.*

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 09-Dec-21 08:16 PM

"Crewman Harry, we have been captured by...something. Can you make your way over to me?" *She said flipping her body around to face him.*

PO3 Harry Lynton 09-Dec-21 08:24 PM

*Hearing what the warrant officer was saying, logical thought began to slowly but surely come back, but not before he tried one more time to rip apart the ties to absolutely no avail. He then started to slowly scoot over to Serapia, although it was such a clumsy movement. Maybe they would have the ability to actually help each other and to get out of here. He looked around for a few moments to see what exactly was there. Where they were and transversely a way to get out.* “Yes, yes I can make it there.”

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 09-Dec-21 08:42 PM

"Excellent!" *The woman whispered as she tried to look for any type of sharp object that she could use to cut the bindings, unfortunately there were none in sight. With only one option left Serapia waited for Harry to get closer.* "Crewman Harry Lynton, maneuver yourself so that your wrists are close to my face. I will attempt to chew the restraints off."

PO3 Harry Lynton 09-Dec-21 09:06 PM

*Harry, looking confused for a moment, continued to make his way towards Serapia. He knew that these restraints would probably be difficult to chew, seeing that he was him and to rip it was an impossiblity. But maybe an additional force could do it. Once he scooted over to the warrant officer, he than began to move his hands to Serapia’s mouth region. Hopefully she wouldn’t bite him on accident. That wouldn’t be the end of the world but a pain nonetheless.*

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 09-Dec-21 09:14 PM

*Serapia started chewing on his wrist restraints which in fact wasn't the weirdest thing she had done. There was no doubt in her mind that whoever took them had taken tabs on them and could most likely see their effort. If they decided to reveal themselves it would give more options to them to fight them or escape, but for now. Serapia must chew.*

Narrator BOT 09-Dec-21 09:55 PM

*Serapia would find the restraints no easy task to chew through, made of the most stringy vine. The mass of fibers were like trying to chew through strings of tendons.*

Lt. Xander Spica 10-Dec-21 12:45 AM

*Xander just looked at Serpia and shook his head for a moment before closing his eyes and laying back. Somehow he wasn't all that worried about this all. In his mind, this was all just another day in starfleet.*

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[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 10-Dec-21 06:03 AM

*Serapia would go at it for a few minutes but as she realized she was making no progress she forwent her efforts.* "The bindings are too difficult to cut through..." *She looked around again for another idea. No way she was going to give up and the tree seemed like the best option.* "The tree. We can use one of its branches or its bark...follow me crewman. Xander, watch for anything amiss." *She started shifting towards the tree, face dirt and all.*

Lt. Xander Spica 10-Dec-21 06:07 AM

"Will do." *He opened his eyes and looked around, curious if there was anything out there to begin with.*

PO3 Harry Lynton 10-Dec-21 10:56 AM

*As the crewing process seemed to fail, it was time to start up the next attempt to escape by their own means. Hopefully the crew would have realized they were gone, although there was a chance that they had not realized that the three of them were gone. That thought would be scary, especially since it would equate to them potentially never getting out. But no sort of defeatism could be allowed until all of their options had been expired. So he then started to shift along with the warrant officer, dirt continuing to be pushed on his face.*

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 10-Dec-21 11:08 AM

*Once they have gotten to the tree Serapia would sit up and lean herself against it. Then she would try to rip off a piece of bark with her hands still behind her back and manipulate it in a way where she could start slowly cutting away at her wrist restraints.* "Brother Harry,Do you see any sticks or sharp objects around?"

PO3 Harry Lynton 10-Dec-21 01:42 PM

*As Harry made it to the tree, he’d see that Serapia was starting to actually attempt to cut the restraint. But the realization that it would take a while donned on him, so once Serapia began to speak and asked him for something sharp, he’d look around. Probably couldn’t find anything but he could certainly make himself useful.* “I don’t think so Warrant Officer.”

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 10-Dec-21 01:45 PM

"They have certainly covered their own backs." *Serapia said continuing to try to cut the restraint.* "In the event we fail Brother Harry...if our captors reveal themselves do everything you can to escape. We will not let them overtake us as long as we should live."

PO3 Harry Lynton 10-Dec-21 06:02 PM

"Yes warrant officer." *Harry then moved over to the tree to almost imitate the Warrant Officer to be able to slowly cut the restraints that help his arms together. A renewed sense of urgency started to get towards him, knowing that this individual or group that captured them would probably have some sort of devilish intent that would be placed upon not only them but the rest of the expedition. It was critical, so he pushed with a renewed vigor, feeling the friction between the branch and the restraints. But since they were extremely tough, it would probably take time. If only he had his armor, he had placed a small pocket knife there for different purposes. Of course the knife was apart of his expedition kit, but still it would be extremely helpful. Hell he could even use his commbadge to just communicate with the others and give them some sort of details about the cavern they were in. But what had really captured them? It must be some sort of aquatic figure, and from what he could tell, there were not a significant aquatic population in their major cities, so it must be some sort of unknown individual. Probably looking for its next meal. Although he did remember seeing a flash of hair, but that was to the extent of what he could see before he was pushed into the water. So he began to go quicker, anything to protect the others. He was just a cewmember, small in comparison to a Warrant Officer and the Lieutenant.*

Narrator BOT 10-Dec-21 07:53 PM

*Suddenly, vines shot through the dirt, wrapping around Serapia binding her arms to her torso and her legs together. Almost like a cocoon, holding her in place. More vines did the same to Harry, but lifted him up and held him over the water. For good measure, vines also held Xander down.*

Forest Nymph BOT 10-Dec-21 07:54 PM

*A voice from nowhere, seemingly enough, sounded in a calm but agitated tone,* "How dare you soil the sacred tree with your filthy hands."

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 10-Dec-21 07:59 PM

*Serapia attempted to struggle out of it to no avail. It was futile but regardless she would continue to fight, and finally their captures revealed itself. It looked like something that the hive creatures would've spawned back on her home planet, which did not do it any favors.* "You have done that yourself creature! Unhand us at once! We are the the Federation's most faithful and you **will** feel our wrath if you don't return us back to our fellow brothers and sisters." *Serapia said defiantly.*

Lt. Xander Spica 10-Dec-21 08:03 PM

"Warrant officer, calm down." *He said calmly before turning his head to look at the nymph, a slight smile on his face.* "So, what I believe my colleague here was trying to say is that we were quite curious why you brought us here to begin with. It's not that nice to phase someone through a wall, you know?"

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 10-Dec-21 08:06 PM

*Serapia complied with the order but still stared down the creature intently and struggled of course.*

PO3 Harry Lynton 10-Dec-21 08:17 PM

*As the vines starts to grab Harry, he just prepared for the worst. A quick gasp would be released before he realized that he was being lifted up to the water. The hissing from something was extremely confusing, especially since he couldn’t hear what was being said. And hey, it was a positive that he was speaking to a sentient thing. Bad thing was that you know, they had pissed her off.* “Uh…we apologize for this, but we were captured.”

Water Nymph BOT 10-Dec-21 09:29 PM

*Down below Harry there were two yellow eyes peering up at him. Under the water fishy scaled legs and a more feminine body anxiously floated in a circle.*

Forest Nymph BOT 10-Dec-21 09:33 PM

"You are trespassing. So I hardly care. We *creatures*," *She spat at the insolent blonde before returning her gaze back to the calm one,* "Guard this place. We saw you come. We saw homage was paid in the hall of truth only by one. So we took it upon ourselves to study you closer and brought you here."

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 10-Dec-21 09:43 PM

"How are we supposed to know where your territory starts and ends?! We have done nothing to provoke you. All we wanted was to explore this new land as we are not from this place." *She relaxed her tone to try to get her point across.* "Our brothers and sisters are coming for us. If you release us and return our equipment we can ensure that they leave your lands and bother you no more. If you don't...they will keep coming. We have thousands of people, you cannot hope to face them all without being subdued in the process."

"Keep me as a prisoner if you believe I am dishonest, but your lands will be roamed by more trespassers if you do not let us contact our people and release Xander and Brother Harry in goodwill." (edited)

PO3 Harry Lynton 10-Dec-21 10:12 PM

*As the lady spoke, Harry really confirmed his suspicions that they had trespassed. It figured since they had not taken any local guides with them and their maps were probably antiquated. But hearing Serapia almost hardened his determination to actually like do whatever was necessary to get the two out. They had friends and family, and he barely had those things. He’d take a quite gulp before beginning to try and speak, but his voice didn’t come to him at first. But taking a few moments to ready himself, he then waited until Serapia was finished to start talking.* “Please, we apologize for trespassing. What may we do to pay for our transgressions?”

Forest Nymph BOT 11-Dec-21 01:14 AM

*The distain on her face as she glared at the blond was clear as she waved a hand and more vines wrapped around the human's mouth,* "I suggest you be silent or else your threats will get you killed. Your people will find you in pieces...*only to follow your demise.*" *She then turned to Harry and tilted her head, glancing to the watery one still circling under him,* "That has been the most reasonable thing to be said yet. Truth be told, since only one of you entered the hall of truth, the rest of you were unknown to us, and the one who did enter was... volitile. Though the discussion regarding the reason made it a valid emotional truth." "We know you people will try to find you but that process in of itself is a test. As has been to see how you handle yourself here. Which two out of three is better than no successes at all, I suppose."

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 11-Dec-21 03:09 AM

*Serapia felt powerless to do anything, and she absolutely hated that fact. These creatures however were right about one thing, this was a test, a test of faith that her colleagues came and saved the three of them before the aliens decided there was nothing more to study about them. Exhaling she closed her eyes and started reciting her rites of strength and courage, calling on the will of the Federation to get her and her fellow brothers and sisters through this. She spoke in a low whisper.* "From the dying, and the sickness, Federation deliver us. From our hunger, from our ignorance, Federation give us hope. From night and day, against all your foes, lend us your will, lend us your strength so we may protect your most faithful. So we may one day return to your warm embrace. If we may die in glorious service, we die for our children, and their children, for our brothers and sisters, for you. We are the stalwart defenders of the Federation and none shall break us. My faith eternal. I am a tool in your name, I will die in your name, I live in your name, I protect in your name, I die in your name, I will die in your name. I am a tool, I am ever faithful, I am ever loyal, till I die for you, I am a tool, I am nothing..." *This continued for some time. It took her mind off of the aliens giving a chance for the others to say their pieces and hopefully not piss them off.* (edited)

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Lt. Xander Spica 11-Dec-21 05:33 AM

*He listened carefully to the Nymphs and nodded a little. This was quite interesting to hear. This was all a test for the crew that came here. That was by far the last thing he expected. However, hearing that the rest of the crew was unknown to them gave him a slight idea.* "If all of us apart from one are unknown to you, how about we get acquainted with one another? I am Xander Spica, I'm a scientist."

PO3 Harry Lynton 11-Dec-21 08:46 PM

*Hearing the two different individuals speak from starfleet seemed almost like the wrong thing to do. It didn’t seem like a literal test of faith and to tell them who you were seemed like a security risk. Harry knew that the vines were too difficult to get out of, especially in regards to the individual who is able to control them. So he took a few moments to calm down and thing. Use his brain to actually get out of a situation, not very Tactical of him as a crewman.* “Well what may we do for a transgression to be resolved? A test?”

Forest Nymph BOT 13-Dec-21 06:46 AM

"I do not know what a scientist is, but we have been watching you to learn your intentions. People are also better exposed when put under pressure, so you are bait for the rest to follow. You are all oddly color coordinated. What is the reason for this?"

Lt. Xander Spica 13-Dec-21 06:52 AM

"Well, being a scientist means that I research things. In my case I research how beings like yourself work; how they breathe, digest, think. All those things. And the fact I'm a scientist is shown by the fact that I wear blue. Crewman Lynton is red for tactical and Warrant Officer Albitina is yellow for security. We're colour coded to show what our speciality is."

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[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 13-Dec-21 07:31 AM

*Serapia did not believe it was wise to reveal such information to an hostile enemy, however it was not her place to argue. The fact that they knew her colleagues were falling into a trap and could do nothing to stop it only increased Serapia's furry. If they dare harm any of them she will purge them from this planet. For now she continued her rites.*

PO3 Harry Lynton 14-Dec-21 12:25 AM

*Harry knowing that his question was not to be answered then knew to keep quiet. It’s why he was not in diplomacy but in tactical. Guns out to deal with situations, something he did not have. He tried to wiggle his wrists for a moment to see if he could get any sort of loose spots to actually get some sort weapon or hell, even a loosening on his torso. The tight grip of said vines was starting to make him quite uncomfortable.*

Forest Nymph BOT 18-Dec-21 02:17 AM

*The twiggy and leafy woman narrowed her eyes,* "How do you study?"

Lt. Xander Spica 18-Dec-21 04:07 AM

"We have an academy in which we learn most subjects. Though personal studies aren't uncommon." *He explained simply.*

PO3 Harry Lynton 18-Dec-21 01:06 PM

*Harry heard what the Lieutenant was saying and he was internally shocked. These were their captors and he was telling them the facts of the Federation instead of attempting to escape? Why would he be doing that? Harry attempted to speak but had absolutely no words to actually say, so all that could be heard was a small gasp as the air seemed to fill his mouth but nothing was said. It was certainly not his place to question officers and their motivations, yet Harry himself needed to find a way to actually get out of his restraints and to at least warn the others. Hell, this seemed absolutely like a trap, something that would only lead to calamity to the entire expedition. So he tried to move a little bit more with some more haste to get out of the vine's grasp and to maybe help Serapia to get out and we can fight.*

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Water Nymph BOT 18-Dec-21 04:55 PM

*This one was now staring at the tall green one, eyes batting at her as she touched her index fingers to one another anxiously.* "This one is turning red...perhaps...set him down?"

Forest Nymph BOT 18-Dec-21 04:58 PM

*Her glowing eyes moved to the water child, and she sighed heavily,* "You trust too easily. I will set him down but I will not release him." *With that Harry was placed back on to the ground, still bound. Then she looked back to Xander.* "Academy... institutions? We know of those. But that does not answer my question. *How do you study*?"

Lt. Xander Spica 18-Dec-21 05:00 PM

"Classes? Reading books? I don't know exactly how to answer that. We just... Study." *He explained carefully. At this moment he just didn't want to escalate things further.*

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 18-Dec-21 05:24 PM

*Serapia ordered bound from the superior officer still did not attempt to commune or interact with the Nymphs but she did watch their actions intently. As they moved Harry to the ground she just hoped they didn't harm him, as she was still powerless to do anything. She looked up at the tree branches, down at the ground, everywhere and anywhere, just something she could do to get her fellow crewmembers out of the mercy of the nymphs.*

PO3 Harry Lynton 19-Dec-21 12:53 AM

*As the nymphs spoke, Harry for a moment thought that it was going to be negative, but the moment that the vines started to move to the ground, he was entirely incorrect. Of course he was still in the grasp of the vines, but now he wasn’t over the water, which was a small respite from all of the stress. But for now, he knew to keep his mouth shut and don’t say anything that would provoke them. Let the Lieutenant deal with the diplomacy and he would deal with anything that he was specialized in.*

Forest Nymph BOT 31-Dec-21 12:32 AM

"You do not *take*, and *cut*, and *burn*? Poke and prod and leave to rot?" *There was a flicker of red that shone in her glowing yellow eyes. The hint of some anger.* "How do you study?"

Lt. Xander Spica 31-Dec-21 04:18 AM

"No, we don't do that. That's the opposite of studying for us." *He said calmly, not raising his voice nor showing any signs of anger. If he stayed calm, maybe the situation wouldn't escalate further.* "We scan things, gather data, do research. Our ways are quite different from yours, so it's quite understandable if we don't understand eachothers ways."

Fire Beatles BOT 31-Dec-21 08:47 PM

*Far on the other side of the grotto, the little bugs spilled out of the tunnel slightly, making room for their new found friends to walk. Though they didn't go much further,* "We stop here, your majesty. The Forest Nymph is territorial and we do our best to live in harmony."

Lt. Cmdr. T'Pel Kestra 31-Dec-21 08:48 PM

( @PO3 Kk’kkv )

PO3 Kk’kkv 31-Dec-21 09:01 PM

*Kk'kkv bows to them.* ~kk'XKhrrrrt'cxck'Kt~ [Your help is deeply apricated. I thank you all for your expediency, competency, and respect. You are all wonderful and kind.] *Kk'kkv looks back up, eyeing the other far end of the grove, to where the officers had been kidnapped.* "The officers are held down there, ma'am, along with 2 other figures." (edited)

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Forest Nymph BOT 01-Jan-22 06:56 PM

*The Forest Nymph's eyes darted over to the tall,and very hard to miss bug, but she remained silent in order to see how it played out.*

PO3 Kk’kkv 01-Jan-22 07:06 PM

*The bugs many eyes stared back all the same.*

Lt. Cmdr. T'Pel Kestra 01-Jan-22 07:50 PM

*T'Pel peeked around Kk, using her as a sort of shield. They had been spotted and she could feel the energy of this place moving through every nerve in her body.* *She took a moment to adjust to the strange sensation before walking over to the rocks that provided something of a walkway to the small island in the middle. The rocks were mossy, so she removed her boots and socks as to feel what she was doing as she began to cross.* "You have something of mine..."

Ensign Rorik 01-Jan-22 11:52 PM

*It has been a long swim and a worrisome trip to boot, but coming up from the water and out into the open air of the grotto was a relief like no other. Surfacing not unlike a crocodile with only the top of his head and eyes above the water, Rorik looked cautiously around as he bobbed towards the land mass in the middle. Slowly but surely, more of him became exposed to the warm air that surrounded the grotto, his knife at his side and mostly hidden..but not holstered.*

Forest Nymph BOT 02-Jan-22 12:29 AM

*More visitors arrived and one was now trekking across the rocks.* "It took you sooner than I anticipated. Welcome."

Crewman Rick Reyes 02-Jan-22 12:41 AM

*Rick popped up like a bullet coming out of the gun barrel, his knife too was hidden.* (edited)

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Ensign Rorik 02-Jan-22 12:53 AM

*Spying the nymph on the small island, as well as a slew of missing officers, including the one he'd seen snatched, Rorik slowly holstered his blade and lifted up his hands to show they were free of a weapon. Reaching upwards to peel off the suction of the rebreather, Rorik exposed his face to the Nymphs as the rebreather slipped over his wet, black hair and dangled limply in his hand by the strap.* "We thank you for the warm welcome..but our stay must be short-lived. We only come to retrieve our crew mates." *Rorik stated plainly, keeping eagle eyes on the Nymph ..they were in their territory after all.* (edited)

Crewman Rick Reyes 02-Jan-22 12:56 AM

*Rick too lifted his hands to show that he is also clean.*

*By clean he meant like sparkly clean.*

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PO3 Harry Lynton 02-Jan-22 01:06 AM

*As the others began to pop into the situation, the very much scared Harry could finally breathe a sigh of relief. Hopefully this means that this entire disaster of a security failing could be avoided and this expedition could reappear. He was perfectly well aware not to try an escape, even though one could be slightly more realistic than before. Yet he remained still and would allow the officers to do their work. It was the least he could do for having to make everyone do a manhunt for him again.*

Lt. Xander Spica 02-Jan-22 04:40 AM

*He looked up at the group that arrived and let out a sigh of relief, laying back against the tree he was tied up against. Glad he did his job well, he decided to leave this in T'Pels hands. He gave them a nod and a small smile to indicate his thanks for them coming to get them.*

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 02-Jan-22 05:00 AM

*Serapia was elated to see her fellow crewmembers coming out of the shadows to rescue them, but she was still restrained by the creatures so any attempt to celebrates was just relegated to bouts of muffles. The woman started struggling again in an attempt to free herself once more.*

PO3. Richard Hughes 02-Jan-22 02:05 PM

*Hughes had been significantly more heavily armed upon reaching this cave than the rest of his team, so he had a little more work to do, strapping his rifle down to his chest with its sling, in case that - was that a* ***fairy?!*** *- understood the concept of firearms. But the quick release was still close to hand, as he surveyed the cave and spoke quietly to Rorik, rebreather mouthpiece hanging around his neck.* "Sir. Three missing, three captives. They're all here. And so are allies. Another search team, across the cave." *If only they'd noticed the fellow officers a little earlier perhaps the Ensign wouldn't have spoken, and they'd have maintained surprise. But too late.*

Forest Nymph BOT 02-Jan-22 03:55 PM

"And what exactly are you prepared to do to get them back?" *She asked calmly, standing straight and tall. The Nymph was statuesque in a graceful tree-like way, not giving away an ounce of her intentions, but not moving to act either.*

Ensign Rorik 02-Jan-22 04:01 PM

*Rorik nodded at Hughes words, catching sight of the other officers in the distance, seemingly talking to their own Nymph as there were multiple guarding their crewmates. A curious thought went through his mind, wondering why these creatures held such an interest in them, or even what they intended to do with them. Eat them? Who knew..but he did not want to dwell on the thought long.* "We are willing to negotiate reasonable terms, as long as our crewmates are released alive and unharmed. What are you seeking in exchange?"

Crewman Rick Reyes 02-Jan-22 04:07 PM

*Rick walked up next to Rorik preparing to listen to their terms of exchange.*

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 02-Jan-22 04:26 PM

"Negotiate?" *Serapia would attempt to say but all that came out was a vague muffled version of the word. It certainly was not what she would do in this situation but she was bound by her oath(and physically) to support whatever action a superior had decided to do. However, that didn't stop her from wanting to sever **everyone** of her captor's heads for their poor actions.* (edited)

Forest Nymph BOT 02-Jan-22 05:04 PM

"Negotiating is your way then? Promising. However...that is not all of your people's response." *Her yellow eyes darted to the blonde still bound and gaged. Apparently these folk did not work like a cohesive unit.*

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 02-Jan-22 05:24 PM

*Serapia glared at the Nymph once more in response. The creature kidnapped and drugged her just to satisfy its selfish curiosity. As long as she and her fellow starfleet crewmembers stayed at their mercy, she was not going to express anything else other than hostility or contempt.* (edited)

Ensign Rorik 02-Jan-22 05:40 PM

*Rorik's gaze settled on Albitina as the Nymph too looked over at the Human. He imagined she had not made her kidnapping easy, and it only underlined the fact that she, even now, was struggling against her bonds.* "I would think it is not most Human's initial reaction upon their kidnapping to negotiate well. However I am willing to do so as long as it is done at an accelerated rate. What are your terms." *It was framed as much more of a statement than a question, his gaze swerving back to the Nymph in question, locking brown to green in an intense stare down.*

Forest Nymph BOT 02-Jan-22 06:14 PM

"It is most everyone's initial reaction to being taken. However that does not stop predators who end up doing far worse than simply kidnap." *The Nymph then allowed Xander and Harry go,* "I want nothing from you. As I told your compatriot, you trespassed into my domain and did not follow proper procedure. I am willing to believe that the...counsel was not entirely fourth coming in educating you, as you are obviously not from around here, but I needed to *know* you. How you deal with obstacles. Having been lied to...I do not simply trust someone's word. Conversation is preferable to violence. If I had wanted to kill you...*you would have been dead by now*." *The last part was said to the angry human, before the Nymph returned her gaze to the elf looking one.* "I will release this one into you custody if you can assure me that you will keep her harnessed, or else if she tries anything I will end her. Once that is settled, you will be free to go."

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Ensign Rorik 02-Jan-22 06:20 PM

"Agreeable. Warrant Officer Albitina." *His gaze whipped back to the blonde quickly, eager to get all of the crew back to the campsite and off this rock before they caused any more disturbances.* "I am ordering you to fall silently in line upon your release. Not a word nor gestures to the contrary, am I understood?"

Lt. Xander Spica 02-Jan-22 06:22 PM

*He got up and massaged his wrists as he made his way over to T'Pel's group with a slight sigh of relief and a smile.* "You have no idea how glad I am to see you, T'Pel. That was pretty stressful." *He said in a lowered tone of voice to make sure he didn't disturb the negotiations.* "Thanks for coming."

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 02-Jan-22 06:37 PM

*Serapia headed the Ensign's words and nodded. While her opinion of the situation would never be changed her actions were forever bound by the orders of her superiors. The woman stopped struggling and waited for the release, if it may come.*

Lt. Cmdr. T'Pel Kestra 02-Jan-22 06:52 PM

*T'Pel moved Harry and Xander behind her, content to let Ensign Rorik handle it. Currently, diplomacy was not exactly her strong suit.*

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Forest Nymph BOT 02-Jan-22 07:05 PM

*With his word, she waved her hand and the vines slowly untangled from the Human, but they hung in the air ready for an attack anyway.* "You are free to go. The rest of your people have also left to return back to your ship."

Crewman Rick Reyes 02-Jan-22 07:08 PM

*Rick double-checked with his data padd on hand and he nodded to confirm the order.*

Ensign Rorik 02-Jan-22 07:21 PM

"We are obliged for your generosity." *Rorik replied back once Serapia was released from the vines. A quick gesture for her to come over towards Hughes, Reyes and himself shortly followed.* "We will take our leave now..preferably the way the other crew has." *His gaze flicked to Sa'val and T'Pel quickly.* "Goodbye."

[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 02-Jan-22 07:33 PM

*Once they released her Serapia coughed a storm and breathed in, feeling the unrestricted air fill her lungs. As she walked away she eyed the floating vines that had just constrained her, predicting an attack that she mentally prepared for. If nothing happened she would walk to Reyes and Hughes, her pride slightly bruised as she wasn't able to put the creatures in their places. If she had her power sword...the woman with surprise on her face checked for her weapon briefly and then looked at Rorik. Complying with his orders the woman would not speak but would g mouth the words.* "They have our gear". *To him after getting his attention. In no way she would leave her sacred weapon and the advanced technologies of starfleet in the hands of these creatures unless told directly so.*

Ensign Rorik 02-Jan-22 07:37 PM

"However." *Rorik stated, having lip-read Albitinas plea, he outstretched a hand to keep any of them from moving on before they had everything they'd come with.* "I would also have the weapons and gear our crewmates had with them upon their capture."

Forest Nymph BOT 02-Jan-22 07:44 PM

*The Nymph tilted her head confused,* "I have no such gear or weapons. When they arrived here, they had nothing unless it was in their clothing."

Ensign Rorik 02-Jan-22 07:46 PM

"I see." *He looked to Albitina with a raised brow but said nothing to her. He looked back to the Nymph and gave her a curt nod.* "Very well. Goodbye." *And with that, he gestured for his troop to follow him as they crossed the grotto and joined the group on the other side.*

Fire Beatles BOT 02-Jan-22 07:55 PM

*As the group began to leave, the little fire bugs followed Kk, their exalted Queen, happily clicking as the went.* "The queen made peace. Much glory to her Majesty! So wise and Noble!"

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[Sec] Warrant Officer Serapia Albitina BOT 02-Jan-22 08:18 PM

*Serapia contained her anger for the moment. An obvious lie she thought. That weapon meant more to her than just a killing tool, an item. It was an extension of herself, a powered technologically advanced blade meant for only the elite of officers and she suffered a lot to be rewarded with it. The woman put her heart and soul into it's maintenance and functionality. Losing it was akin to losing your family heirloom, but for now, to stay true to her agreement and for the others she was contained her anger and walked off behind Rorik.*

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PO3 Kk’kkv 02-Jan-22 10:51 PM

*Kk'kkv looked down upon the collective. Kk'kkv looked down upon them with endearment, squatting.* ~Kkkk'k'kxccxcC'kr'Tx~ [It was not I who made the peace, but the bipedal behind me.] *Kk'kkv looked at Ensign Rorik, then back to the collective of bugs.*

Fire Beatles BOT 03-Jan-22 12:46 AM

"Oh, but you travel with this one. You choose your consorts well, wise and Nobel Queen. We will follow and serve!"

PO3 Kk’kkv 03-Jan-22 01:26 AM

*They were very eager bugs aswell. Kk'kkv tilted her head, before standing back up.*

PO3 Harry Lynton 04-Jan-22 11:58 PM

*Finally being let down from the restraint, Harry’s first action was to assertain his surroundings to ensure that there are no more threats to the rescue team. His eyes began to peer from each side of the grotto to the other, mind you he may look weird just from a first glance. Especially since he was on one knee. Damnit, he’d ensure that there were not anyone more dangerous, or anymore of these individuals who had just taken Harry, Serapia, and Xander. It was the only thing he could do as to actually give something back for such a failure of his perception. He’d look around to see if his armor or anything was visible, as a way to get back on the road so to speak.*

Lt. Cmdr. T'Pel Kestra 05-Jan-22 03:49 PM

(( @PO3 Kk’kkv you can continue here)

PO3 Kk’kkv 05-Jan-22 03:51 PM

*Kk'kkv looks up, internally saddened for what must come next. She'd then look at T'pel.* "They cannot follow us back into the ship, can't they?" *Kk'kkv refers to the collective of fire bugs.* (edited)

Lt. Cmdr. T'Pel Kestra 05-Jan-22 04:25 PM

*T'Pel shook her head,* "This is their home. It would be breaking the prime directive if we brought them with us."

PO3 Kk’kkv 05-Jan-22 04:46 PM

"Understood." *Kk'kkv would squat down, back towards the collective of bugs. Kk'kkv paused for a moment, collecting her thoughts, before she'd then speak* ~Khhr'tk'tKkxkxkxkr'~ [I am sorry, as you cannot follow me further.] *There was another pause, then Kk'kkv resumed speaking in her clicking language* ~X'kkrt'Ktrrtksk'kxxcKchkt'zzktrtk'k~ [As such I can no longer be your queen. I am sorry that I could not of done more for you all. You are all so great and kind, all collectively wonderful. You have served me the best you possibly could, and thank you for making me so happy.]

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Fire Beatles BOT 05-Jan-22 05:33 PM

*The little fire bugs gave a titter of cries,* "But your majesty! We will continue to serve you! Have we displeased you? We can fix! Yes! We can be good servants!"

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PO3 Kk’kkv 05-Jan-22 05:39 PM

*Despite Kk'kkv expecting this it did not diminish now devastating it was. She didn't want to make these bugs sad.* ~x'kchu'xxkkxk'Kr'kkxc~ [You have already served me, and you are already good servents, and are wonderful. I am not mad at you, you have done everything and then some so well and correct. But I must go, as it is out of my control.] (edited)

Fire Beatles BOT 05-Jan-22 07:52 PM

*There was a sad little chitter that spread through their numbers,* "May we at least escort you to your destination?"

PO3 Kk’kkv 05-Jan-22 08:26 PM

*Kk'kkv looks up, back to T'pel. The sadness Kk'kkv felt was beginning to get unbearable.* "They ask to escort me back to ship, would that be alright? Can I explain to them why they may not come with me?" (edited)

Lt. Cmdr. T'Pel Kestra 05-Jan-22 08:39 PM

*T'Pel thought a moment,* "I do not see why they can not escort you, but yes. Explain why we can not bring them with us. They belong here."

PO3 Kk’kkv 05-Jan-22 09:39 PM

*Kk'kkv then looked back down to the collective of fire bugs.* ~Chh'xxkt'ttttk'TtrkkrxxCkcxxk~ [You may escort me yes . . . I come from an entirely different world then here, and as much as it pains me, you belong here, I cannot bring you with me there, as that is against the directive from the world I exist in.] (edited)

Fire Beatles BOT 06-Jan-22 12:28 AM

*There came a little hum as their little butts lit up,* "The we shall escort you and light your way, your majesty." *They surrounded the whole party as they started to lead everyone out, all the way back to the ship where they sang and clicked a song for Kk.*

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Narrator BOT 06-Jan-22 12:28 AM

*~Fin~*

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