Posted by Commander Oliver Loughty (Executive Officer) in Let the Exploration Begin: Away Team on Planet Surface

Posted by Captain Iphigenia Henao (Commanding Officer) in Let the Exploration Begin: Away Team on Planet Surface

Posted by Lieutenant Dayner Ruuk (Containment Architect) in Let the Exploration Begin: Away Team on Planet Surface
Posted by… suppressed (21) by the Post Ghost! 👻
Iphigenia stood in the brightly lit Pilot’s Lounge, surrounded by the hum of ship systems and the soft glow of holographic star charts. Her fingers danced across the holographic interface, finalizing the coordinates for the away team’s landing on the uncharted planet below. Before the rest of the away team arrived, she took a moment to absorb the quiet before the mission’s storm. Her gaze was fixed on the panoramic views of the celestial views beyond the lounge’s windows. The Leviathan hovered over the planet like a tiny satellite in the vastness of space, ready to gather any new information or data it could collect from the planet below.
A few moments later, Ensign Jackson entered the room. Even though he could stir up trouble and be the primary instigator of conflict aboard the ship, he was a skilled shuttle pilot tasked with transporting the away team to the planet’s surface. Iphigenia acknowledged him with a nod, a silent recognition of the crucial role he played in their upcoming mission.

Henao, CO

Jackson strolled into the lounge, his eyes quickly scanned the room, seeking out Iphigenia. Spotting her at the holographic interface, he approached with a confident stride that mirrored his reputation for being both daring and resourceful.
Iphigenia looked up from the coordinates, a knowing smile playing on her lips as she anticipated the energy Ensign Jackson brought to any mission. “Ensign,” she greeted, her tone a mix of formality and friendliness. “I trust you’ve got our shuttle ready for a smooth descent?”

Henao, CO

Jackson grinned, his eyes reflecting a blend of excitement and readiness. “Captain, you know me—always ready for a joyride. This mission is going to be a piece of cake,” he said, a glint of mischief in his eyes. Despite his propensity for mischief, there was an undeniable skill and confidence in his piloting abilities that the crew had come to rely on.

Ensign Jackson, Security/Pilot

She acknowledged Ensign Jackson with a faint smile, her eyes reflecting a mix of appreciation and trust. “Good work, Ensign. We’ll be delving into uncharted territory today. Keep your wits about you; the away team’s life is in your hands.” The duo shared a moment of silent understanding, the weight of their responsibilities apparent. The captain returned her attention to the holographic display, monitoring the shuttle’s systems and ensuring everything was in order for the take off and decent on the planet.

“She’s right.” James poked in from the hatch and faced the duo, “I adjusted the shield frequency just in case. If the parameters become crazy and can’t read, set the variables to auto. It helps the instruments less affected by the surrounding environment, even in the magnetic storm.” Then he gave a good speed gesture with a big smile, and closed the hatch.

Meylan, Assisiting CE

A voice crackled over the ship’s intercom, announcing the imminent arrival of the away team. Iphigenia stood, her posture radiating authority. “Ensign, it’s time. Let’s get the away team safely to the surface and back.”

Henao, CO

=^=CIC to Away team=^= The calm baritone of the ship’s Intelligence Chief sounded over the comms =^=Shutle is free and clear for takeoff, godspeed=^= the farewell was fairly standard but appropriate for the mission.

CIO

=^= Away team, Science station. I’ll be monitoring the shuttle. =^= Tom patched in from the cadet’s seat. He was told to do that awhile ago by Meylan. While everyone was busy for shuttle preparation, he was analyzing data from Toussaint. At this point, he found nothing particularly abnormal that might endanger his friends life on board.

=^= How’s the checklist? =^= He was sure Jackson knew what to do before ‘diving’, but he just wanted some conversation flow.

Little, Eng

“Checklist?” Jackson asked with a grin to Tom.

As the away team gathered in the shuttle, Iphigenia nodded at Magnusson’s update and responded over the comms, =^=Thank you, Lieutenant Commander Magnusson. Also, good work Ensign Little. Everything’s in order here. Ready for departure.=^=

Turning to Ensign Jackson, she spoke with a tone of assurance, “Ensign, let’s make this descent as smooth as your reputation suggests. The engineering team and the CIO have done their part; now it’s ours to navigate into this uncharted terrain.”

Henao, CO

Jackson, with a twinkle in his eye, nodded, “Captain, you’ll see, it’s going to be a ride to remember.” The hatch sealed shut, then the shuttle’s engines hummed to life encapsulating the away team in the shuttle’s controlled environment. Jackson engaged the thrusters, and the shuttle gracefully detached from the Leviathan, hurtling toward the planet.

Jackson, Security/Pilot

Iphigenia drew in a deep breath, feeling the weight of their exploration settle upon her shoulders. Turning to Ensign Jackson, her gaze remained unwavering. “Ensure a smooth descent, Ensign.” Despite her extensive experience in space over the years, she couldn’t shake the unease that accompanied flying in a small shuttle, especially with a less-than-serious Ensign at the helm.

Henao, CO

Ruuk shared the Captain’s sentiment. As he sat aboard the shuttle Ruuk felt a strange mixture of excitement and nervousness. He had done very little away missions in his career, so he was excited to be involved and to be getting out there. However, his inexperience brought with it anxiety which he would have to carefully manage. In his head, this was Ruuk opportunity to show his capability at his job and that he belonged on the Leviathan .

Lieutenant Dayner Ruuk - Containment Architect

As the shuttle descended through the planet’s atmosphere, the hull shivered and shook a little too much for Iphigenia, causing her to grip the armrests of her chair. Jackson, seemingly undeterred, navigated skillfully through the turbulence.
After a moment of closing her eyes to compose racing heart rate she couldn’t help but shoot a stern look his way.”Jackson, I said smooth,” she reminded. The shuttle rumbled, jolting with the unpredictable currents of the alien atmosphere.They continued their descent, piercing through thick clouds that obscured the planet’s surface. Jackson’s hands moved deftly over the controls, it was the first time Iphigenia had ever seen a serious look on his face as he concentrated on his task. Soon enough, they emerged into a breathtaking landscape. The planet revealed a mesmerizing fusion of vibrant colors, exotic flora, and greenish or teal rivers. The shuttle glided smoothly toward the chosen landing site, a clearing surrounded by towering alien trees. As the shuttle safely tapped down on the surface, Iphigenia was relieved and said, “Well done, Ensign,” giving Jackson a nod of approval.

Henao, CO

Iphigenia checked to ensure that every member of the away team was securely in exo-suits before giving a nod to Jackson, who had now assumed the role of security, to open the shuttle hatch. A diligent science Ensign stood right behind him, tricorder in hand, poised to gather crucial data. Iphigenia, positioned next in line, felt the anticipation building as she prepared to step onto the alien soil.

With a cautious glance, Jackson took the lead, peeking his head out of the shuttle’s exit before waving his hand, and signaling clearance for everyone to disembark. As the team stepped onto the unfamiliar terrain, Iphigenia took a moment to survey their surroundings before addressing her crew.

“Okay, here’s the plan,” she began, her voice carrying authority and determination. “We’ll break up into two teams. One team will stay with the shuttle and set up camp, while the other will accompany me. We’ll explore approximately 16 kilometers from the shuttle, then return to analyze any data and samples we collect upon our return to camp. Any questions?” When no one immediately responded, she said, “Good. This should be a fairly routine mission. Let’s get started.” She looked at the science Ensign and said, “You have anything to report?”

A science officer focused on his tricorder readings, looked up and reported, “Besides a few small copper particles and some traces of methane, the air seems quite breathable, Captain.”

“Noted,” responded Iphigenia. “Let’s keep our suits on for a bit longer. Inform me of anything else, no matter how small.” The officer nodded in confirmation.

Iphigenia activated her comm badge and established contact with the Leviathan, saying, =^=Leviathan, this is Captain Henao. We have landed on the planet. Can you confirm our location and verify that you are receiving this transmission? =^=

Henao, CO

=^= Captain Henao, this is Leviathan. Location confirmed, and we’re receiving your transmission loud and clear. Keep us posted on your progress, and stay vigilant. Leviathan out. =^=

J. Ynuchausti, Comm. Officer

As the away team ventured further into the alien landscape, the vibrant colors and peculiar flora began to captivate their attention. The towering alien trees emitted a soft glow, casting an otherworldly ambiance. Unbeknownst to them, subtle vibrations beneath the ground hinted at the presence of an unseen danger.

The diligent science Ensign, engrossed in tricorder readings, suddenly paused. “Captain, I’m detecting irregular seismic activity beneath the surface. It’s subtle, but persistent. Could be geological, but it’s worth investigating.”

Iphigenia furrowed her brow, considering the information. “Proceed with caution. We don’t want any surprises. Jackson, keep a close eye on our surroundings.”

Henao, CO

“Proceed with caution.” She said as she tapped her comm badge, “Commander Loughty, we’re encountering geological movement on the planet even though prior scans of the planet showed no signs of significant tectonic plates. Are you picking up anything unusual up there?”

Henao, CO

Ruuk gingerly stepped out of the shuttlecraft. His movements were shy and cautious for a few moments, until he became comfortable on his feet and he began to move more freely.
After listening to the captain communication Ruuk took out his Tricorder and began taking initial readings.

Lieutenant Dayner Ruuk - Containment Architect

As Iphigenia waited for communication from the Levi, the away team continued to advance on. The tricorders of the Containment Architect and the Science Officer unveiled a notable absence of traditional surface-dwelling biological life forms. However, the data revealed distinct life signs indicative of a subterranean species. Compelling evidence of extensive subterranean tunneling and manipulation of the planet’s structure was present. While geological factors cannot be entirely ruled out.

Captain Iphigenia Henao
(Commanding Officer)

Larz scanned the landscape with a suspicious eye. He quickly approached the Captain, “Captain, considering the seismic activity there could be circumstances we are not yet aware of. I recommend a defensive formation.

Jackson, Security

Iphigenia nodded, “Jackson is right. Something feels…off. Lieutenant Ruuk, stay close to me. Science NE Moore keep that tricorder ready and continue to monitor the geological activity until we hear beack from the Leviathan. Jackson, tighten the formation, and everyone, stay alert.”

“Aye, Ma’am” Ruuk moved into formation next to the Captain, keeping a close eye on his Tricorder all the while. His mind was already wondering what they might be dealing with and how they would look to contain aboard the Ship. If they were dealing with a being that is subterranean, containment conditions might be slightly more challenging, but not impossible.

Lieutenant Dayner Ruuk - Containment Architect

Captain Iphigenia Henao
(Commanding Officer)

=^= “Leviathan to Captain Henao. We’ve analyzed the geological activity on the planet. It’s likely caused by some biological underground presence. The movement we detected seems to align with an unknown subterranean species that evolved thousands of years ago. How they are causing the tremors in the planet, we are uncertain but Commander Loughty has directed us to focus on whether their activity is hollowing out the planet or causing it to be unstable in some other way.”=^=

• Toussaint, Science (Crosspost)

As they searched deeper into the mysterious terrain, the communication came from the Levi, and like clockwork, subtle signs of danger began to escalate. The ground emitted low rumbles and strange echoes that reverberated through the air. The science officer picked up faint heat signatures on the tricorder.

“Captain, there’s something moving beneath us… and it’s sizable. But it’s not registering on visual scanners,” said NE Moore.
Iphigenia’s eyes scanned the terrain, a sense of unease settling within her as the crew tightened their formation. Trusting her instincts, she ordered, “Everyone, back to the shuttle immediately. Double time!”

The team hurriedly retraced their steps, the ground beneath them pulsating with an eerie rhythm. Suddenly, the ground shifted, and a roar echoed. Iphigenia’s head snapped towards the sound, her phaser now in her hand. “What was that?” she whispered as she scanned in all directions. “Something’s here. Everyone, hurry back to the shuttle.” As the team continued toward their destination, the ground seemingly exploded, and a colossal, wormlike creature slightly smaller than the Leviathan burst through the grassy surface, sending shards of stones and ground scattering. A gasp escaped from Science NE Moore as he stumbled, then fell, the tricorder slipping from his grasp. Time seemed to slow as she assessed the situation.

Iphigenia stepped over the fallen tricorder and quickly pulled the NE science officer to his feet. The creature loomed, its tendrils surrounding its mouth extending towards the team. “Evacuate now!” she shouted, as she aimed her phaser at the creature.

“Captain! Get to safety,” Jackson shouted.

“I can’t!” said Iphigenia as she continued to point her phaser at the creature. “Not without the whole team.” Said Iphigenia. Jackson gave a nod to a Vulcan security officer who promptly picked up the Captain and began running toward the shuttle with her. “Unhand me!” Iphigenia shouted as she struggled to break loose from the officer, “That’s an order!” she said.
“I cannot, Captain. I was ordered to guard you while here on the planet,” the Vulcan man replied.
Iphigenia looked toward Jackson and Davis as they retreated. She witnessed them standing their ground and firing off several shots from their phasers at the creature. This incensed the creature, and it promptly spat a green goo on NE Davis before swallowing him whole. “Davis!” exclaimed Jackson with wide eyes.
“Davis!” yelled Iphigenia as she was being carried away. Jackson took off running toward a wooded area. The creature dove back underground, giving chase to him. “Jackson!” she yelled.

When he was sure they were out of reach of the creature, the security officer released Iphigenia. “Damn you!” she pointed at him. “Who do you think you are? I gave you an order to release me!” The Vulcan man placed his hands behind his back, lowered, and nodded his head at the same time. “Yes, Captain, but as I said, I was told to specifically ensure your safety on this mission. I was also told you might not willingly retreat when faced with danger, so I employed the necessary measures to ensure your safety.”

Iphigenia couldn’t be mad at him; she knew who had given him the order. She shook her head, rolled her eyes as she walked toward the shuttle and declared to him “I do not need a bodyguard. I am a trained Tactical & Security Officer! I can take care of myself!” As the shuttle came into view, Iphigenia frustratedly hit her comm badge and said, =^=Levi, this is Henao. There are some creatures here on the planet. Large. Wormlike. We were attacked. NE Davis is gone. The away team has gotten split up; we need immediate evacuation for those who are not with us. Are the transporters operational?=^=

Just as her communication ended, the creature burst through the ground, taking out the shuttle and the three crew members waiting there with it. The man-eating species loomed before them. An NE Xenobiologist passed out right there on the ground. Without thinking, Iphigenia quickly bent down, threw her over her shoulder—an arduous task since she weighed just as much as Iphigenia did—and huffed through the weight of the woman on her shoulder, “We need to get out of here,”. The Vulcan security officer pulled his phaser and began firing at the creature as they retreated. There was no time to contact the Levi and inform them the shuttle was gone, and she lacked the strength to activate her comm badge since she was carrying a passed-out NE.

Captain Henao
(Commanding Officer)

=^=CIC to Away team, transporters are unable to meet Starfleet Emergency beaming regulations, the USS Archaeutus will be diverting to your location with a security and medical detail, and another team will be waiting to transport to the surface. We are comming. Oliver out.=^=

• Loughty, XO

Iphigenia gritted her teeth under the weight of Xenobiologist, as the Vulcan security officer continued firing, creating a diversion for their escape. They moved through a forested area, the towering creature roared and then dove underground. “It has submerged itself in the landscape,” said the security officer. Iphigenia carried the unconscious NE Xenobiologist through the uneven terrain, desperately seeking cover. The ground beneath them shuddered with the creature’s movements.
“Captain, we should find a defensible position,” said the security officer. He pointed to a rocky outcrop, “we should move towards that ridge, It might provide a better vantage point for defense.” he suggested with a stoic face, pointing to a rocky formation in the distance.

Iphigenia nodded and moved as fast as she could to the area. When it was time to climb the steep rocks she handed the Xenobiologist off to the security officer and took his phaser. “Keep moving,” she said, “let’s get higher. I doubt they can burrow through boulders.” Iphigenia glanced back to see the creature hesitate momentarily. It seemed reluctant to follow them into the rocky terrain.

Iphigenia maintained a vigilant stance, scanning their surroundings. The creature had followed them and was burrowing around the rocky encampment they had sought refuge on. Now able to contact the Leviathan, she tapped her comm badge again, =^=Oliver, we’ve lost the shuttle. The away team is broken into three groups. Jackson is by himself, some others ran in the opposite direction when the creature attacked and we headed for the shuttle where we encountered another attack. We lost three additional officers when the shuttle was capsized by the creature. Engineering must find a way to get the teleporters operational. Our lives depend on it. I would not advise sending any other crew to the surface. It’s just too dangerous. We need immediate extraction. The creature is still on our tail, and we have an injured crew member.=^=

Captain Henao
(Commanding Officer)