Re: The Temple
There was a series of chambers and a connecting corridor between the elevators and stairwells and the surface exit, which was constructed to deflect a blast from coming in (and thus debris shooting out). Still, there was always a chance of a further collapse of the level they were on so it was a risky idea!
Making it out onto the wooded hillside, Blake trekked counter-clockwise around the flank of the hill. The vegetation was moss, ferns and pine/coniferous analogue trees. A layer of needles and pinecones carpeted the ground. The trees were only moderately dense, allowing some bushes and grasses to flourish in places. After about fifteen minute walk of around a klick and a half he came out on the northern flank of the hill within view of the massive, ancient dome.
Using his Scout-issue PRISS viewers he was clearly able to see several helicopters had set down by the structure. The design was clearly Daeskhe, the Hegemony had arrived! If the carrier had stayed nearby it was captured so likely Hanno and Dumaer had taken off.