Chapter 10 IC: Old World, New Frontier
Given the discovery of the maintenance tunnel system in such proximity to the facility below the base camp the logical conclusion is that the two are at least related if not directly connected. After creating a basic map, based on Zelpuz's and Yuu's eidetic memories of the place, then overlaying it with a general area map the full extent of whatever facility they have discovered is shocking, bordering on the unbelievable.
Doctors Vaanhak, Ulaar, Rezam and Hyunzi take particular interest in the script found in those tunnels beyond the cave. That it was in an ancient script marks the area as distinct from the Zhen Halan expedition's facility at the bottom of the lift. While not immediately recognizable to any of them it does follow that it could be something dating to the Phoenix Age or even the late Dark Age. Dr. Rezam will contact their habitat in hopes of finding some hint in their data archives of what language it is and who used it.
In the meantime efforts continue to remove the ward on the large double-doors in the facility, and they hope to have it removed within the next day or two. It would appear that the imperial expedition felt it necessary to lock in or possibly lock out those who would seek the ancient structure below. Given the report of no life, power, or defenses in the tunnels the assembly of researchers hypothesizes that the ward was mostly likely to keep would be thieves, spies, or bandits from disturbing the site. Rather than risking disturbance of any local, potentially hostile fauna further, it is decided to focus the main efforts on gaining access through the Zhen Halan facility. But the alternate entrance presents another opportunity for a smaller team to collect some specific data and dedicated mapping.
The proposal is made to return to the caves the following day. A team lead by Vanyra, Zelpuz, Yuu, and Vashilli (main guide in case you forgot), and including 4 researchers with dedicated sampling and dating equipment, a data terminal, electronic patch kit, and portable power source, will focus on assessing the nether gas phenomenon found in the caves and then attempt to extract any data from the consoles within the maintenance rooms. The mini-expedition will be given a full cycle period in which to complete their task and return, after which rescue efforts will be mobilized.
If the trio of pathfinders have any further suggestions to enhance the safety and speed of the mission the expedition leaders would be glad to hear it.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:59, Mon 22 May 2023.