In the dense canopy of Drumheller Prime’s forest, the survivors of the *Nereus* expedition huddled together, their temporary shelters swaying gently in the sea breeze. The trauma of Dr. Lucas’s horrific death still hung heavily in the air. Summer Knight, her eyes red from crying, was inconsolable, clutching at the makeshift bracelet Lucas had given her weeks before. Maya Preston sat beside her, providing quiet comfort, her own eyes betraying a deep sadness.
Silvio Bartlet, however, was focused on the necessities of survival. His recent success in constructing a network of bridges between the trees had significantly boosted his spirits. He had even managed to catch some wild Salmon Tailed Chicken and gather mangoes from a nearby tree, which provided a welcome distraction from the grim mood.
“I’ve got dinner sorted then!” Silvio announced cheerfully, trying to lighten the atmosphere as he displayed the fruits of his labor.
Jayson Powell, meanwhile, was resolute in his determination to prevent any more losses. He fiddled with the broadcast equipment, cursing under his breath about Captain Murphy’s absence. “If he’d been sober, maybe none of this would’ve happened,” he muttered, his frustration palpable.
Dr. Oscar Allan, who had taken on the role of the group’s medic in addition to his biological research, attended to Summer. “I’m sorry for what Lucas did. It wasn’t right. If you want to pursue action against the university, I’d understand,” he said softly.
“Lucas always had a way of leaving chaos in his wake,” Dr. Allan added, a hint of bitterness in his tone. “It’s not the first time his recklessness has caused trouble.”
That evening, as Jayson tested broadcast frequencies, Maya approached him with a plate of food. “You’ve done so much for us, Jayson,” she said, admiration in her voice. “Without you, who knows where we’d be.”
Jayson, ever modest, shrugged off the praise, but he was visibly moved. Maya then brought up the kiss they shared on the boat. “Did it mean anything to you?” she asked softly, stepping closer.
“It did, but… I’ve never been lucky with women,” Jayson confessed, his voice low.
“That’s because you haven’t been with me,” Maya teased gently, her fingers running through his hair. “That kiss meant something to me, too.”
As they leaned into a passionate embrace, the tension between them transformed into something more intimate. Clothes began to slip off, and just as they were about to further explore their newfound connection, a voice crackled over the radio.
“This is Commander Spacedawg Pauly
Birth Name: PaulyCurrent Alias: Spacedawg PaulySpecies: Human-Canine HybridDate of Birth: February 22, 1973Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States, Earth, Sol SystemOccupations: Former Chef, Brewer, Distiller, Garden Worker, Apprentice Cobbler; Current First Mate on the Mandoleer's Folly, Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC) Overview Spacedawg Pauly is a unique entity whose life story spans both Earth and the... of the Mandoleer’s Folly. Do you need assistance?”
Jayson leapt up, scrambling to respond. “Uh, yes, this is Nerus Expedition Zero Two, we are in need of assistance.”
“We’ll be there shortly. Gather your people in one place, and we’ll come get you,” Commander Pauly replied.
Jayson turned to Maya, his breath still fast from the interruption. “Raincheck?” he asked, a playful yet apologetic smile on his face.
“More than enough time later,” Maya replied, kissing him quickly. “Let’s go tell the others.”
Their announcement that rescue was imminent brought cheers from the group. As they made their way to the designated pick-up location, the *Mandoleer’s Folly* descended gracefully, its cargo ramp opening to reveal Ed Alvis
Biographical Information Also Known As: Captain Ed Alvis, Dr. Ed AlvisProfessions: Scientist, Musician, AdventurerAlma Mater: University of MarylandNotable Achievements: Ph.D. in Physics, Expertise in Structural Engineering Overview Ed Alvis is a renowned figure in both the scientific and musical communities, celebrated for his dual expertise as a physicist and a musician. His remarkable journey spans academic achievements, a profound musical... and The Alchemist, who helped them onboard.
“We’re missing Dr. Lucas,” Ed noted as he checked off names.
“He got taken by a Leviathan Tentacle Whale,” Jayson explained grimly.
“That’s one less suspect to scratch off the list,” Ed muttered, almost to himself.
Dr. Allan, overhearing this, raised an eyebrow. “What was that about?”
“You didn’t know? Dr. Carter is dead,” Ed revealed, leading to another wave of shock.
As they settled into the common area of the Mandoleer’s Folly, refreshed and dressed in new clothes, Commander Spacedawg PaulyBirth Name: PaulyCurrent Alias: Spacedawg PaulySpecies: Human-Canine HybridDate of Birth: February 22, 1973Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States, Earth, Sol SystemOccupations: Former Chef, Brewer, Distiller, Garden Worker, Apprentice Cobbler; Current First Mate on the Mandoleer's Folly, Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC) Overview Spacedawg Pauly is a unique entity whose life story spans both Earth and the... entered. Recognized instantly from the ads for Henry Weedmonger’s cannabis strain, he had a certain celebrity status.
“We’ll be taking you to the local RCSC office for a debriefing,” he announced, his voice calm but authoritative.
Despite the ordeal they had endured, the survivors felt a collective relief. They were safe, they were going home, and the mysterious ties that bound their fates were slowly unraveling, ready to be explored in the safety of civilization.
