Author: Cirsten Hildebrandt

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The Living Dead

Photo by Javardh on Unsplash

Jarmo Dorak gazed at the barren wasteland of Mercury from the cockpit of his spacecraft, the Wotan. His eyes flickered over the rocky terrain, observing the craters and jagged mountains that dotted the planet’s surface. He felt a familiar thrill of excitement course through him as he considered what secrets lay hidden beneath the ground.

Over the time, he had traveled to all the planets of the solar system in search of lost relics and forgotten technologies. He had braved countless dangers and faced many challenges, but his thirst for discovery had never waned.

This time, Jarmo had returned to Mercury to explore the abandoned city of Pvallas. The city had been built by a long-dead civilization, and Jarmo believed that there were valuable artifacts hidden within its ruins. He had spent weeks preparing for this expedition, studying the planet’s history and geography to pinpoint the most promising areas to search.

As he landed his spacecraft near the outskirts of the city, Jarmo couldn’t shake the feeling that he was being followed. He dismissed it as paranoia and began his exploration. The ancient buildings of Pvallas loomed above him, their smooth surfaces shimmering in the heat. The air was thin and oppressive, but Jarmo pressed on, his eyes scanning the landscape for any signs of treasure.

He had been exploring for hours when he heard a faint rustling sound behind him. He spun around, his hand instinctively reaching for his laser pistol. But there was nothing there, just the endless expanse of the city’s ruins.

Jarmo continued his search, but the feeling of being watched persisted. He quickened his pace, moving deeper into the heart of Pvallas. He ducked into an alleyway, hoping to lose whoever was following him, but the rustling sound grew louder.

Suddenly, a figure stepped out from behind a ruined building, its features obscured by the shadows. Jarmo aimed his laser pistol at the figure, ready to defend himself if necessary.

“Who are you?” he demanded.

The figure stepped forward, revealing herself to be a young woman with short, curly hair and bright blue eyes. She was wearing a suit similar to Jarmo’s, with the emblem of ASTROCOHORS CLUB emblazoned on her chest.

“My name is Leonore Wagner,” she said. “I was sent by the ASTROCOHORS CLUB to find you. We haven’t heard from you in weeks, and we feared you might be dead.”

Jarmo lowered his pistol, his eyes narrowing. “I’m not dead,” he said. “I’ve been busy.”

“Doing what?” Leonore asked.

“Searching for artifacts,” Jarmo said. “This is a crucial find, Leonore. I can’t just abandon it.”

“I understand that,” Leonore said. “But you should have informed the club of your whereabouts. We were worried sick.”

Jarmo sighed. “I’m sorry, Leonore. I’ve been so focused on my work that I didn’t think about the consequences.” It was a lie – he was mourning his relationship. But whatever.

“It’s all right,” Leonore said, smiling. “I’m just glad you’re safe.”

They spent the next few minutes introducing themselves to each other. Leonore was a recent graduate of the ASTROCOHORS CLUB’s training program, and she was eager to prove herself as an adventurer and explorer. Jarmo admired her enthusiasm, and he sensed a kindred spirit in her.

“Listen, Jarmo,” Leonore said. “I know you’re busy with your search, but I’d like to help you. I want to learn from you, to experience the thrill of discovery.”

Jarmo studied Leonore for a moment, weighing the pros and cons of allowing her to join him. On the one hand, she was inexperienced and could be a liability in dangerous situations. On the other hand, he could use a partner to watch his back and assist him in his search.

Finally, he nodded. “All right, Leonore. You can join me. But you need to follow my lead and do exactly as I say. This is no place for amateurs.”

Leonore beamed with excitement. “Thank you, Jarmo! I won’t let you down, I promise.”

Together, they resumed their exploration of the city, moving deeper into the ruins. The sun beat down on them relentlessly, making every step a challenge. But they pressed on, driven by the lure of discovery.

As they explored, Jarmo and Leonore encountered numerous obstacles, from collapsed buildings to hidden traps. But they worked together, using their skills and equipment to overcome each challenge. Jarmo was impressed by Leonore’s resourcefulness and her willingness to learn from him.

Finally, they came across a massive structure at the heart of the city. It was a towering edifice, made of some unknown material that glowed with an otherworldly light. Jarmo’s heart raced with excitement, and he knew that this was the artifact he had been seeking.

“We’ve found it, Leonore,” he said, his voice trembling with awe. “This is it.”

Together, they approached the structure, but their excitement was short-lived. Suddenly, a horde of strange, insect-like creatures emerged from the shadows, screeching and chittering in an alien tongue. Jarmo and Leonore drew their weapons, ready to defend themselves. The creatures were fast and agile, darting around them and attacking from all angles. Jarmo fired his laser pistol, but the creatures were too numerous and too fast. Leonore fought bravely, slashing at them with a laser machete, but she was quickly overwhelmed.

Jarmo realized that they were outnumbered and outmatched – again. He made a split-second decision and activated a device on his wrist, emitting a bright flash of light. The creatures recoiled, shrieking in pain, and Jarmo seized the opportunity to grab Leonore and make a run for it.

They fled through the ruins, the creatures hot on their heels. Jarmo led the way, his senses on high alert, searching for an escape route. They dodged through alleys and side streets, but the creatures were relentless, pursuing them relentlessly.

Finally, they burst out of the city and back into the open air. Jarmo looked around, searching for any sign of their spacecraft. He spotted it in the distance and grabbed Leonore’s hand, pulling her along behind him.

They ran as fast as they could. Jarmo was a seasoned explorer, and he knew how to navigate difficult terrain. He led them through a narrow canyon, using the steep walls to shield them from the creatures’ attacks.

Finally, they reached their spacecraft, and Jarmo quickly opened the hatch, shoving Leonore inside. He followed her, sealing the hatch shut and starting the engines. The creatures pounded on the hull, screeching and chittering in frustration.

Jarmo breathed a sigh of relief as they blasted off into space, leaving the creatures behind. He turned to Leonore, his heart racing with adrenaline.

“You all right?” he asked, panting.

Leonore nodded, her eyes wide with excitement. “That was amazing, Jarmo. I’ve never experienced anything like it.”

Jarmo smiled. “Welcome to the life of an adventurer. It’s never dull, that’s for sure.”

Leonore grinned back at him. “I can’t wait to see what we find next.”

Jarmo chuckled. “Well, let’s take a breather first. We need to regroup and plan our next move.”

They settled into their seats, with Jarmo piloting the spacecraft back towards Earth. They discussed their encounter with the alien creatures, trying to piece together what they had learned.

“They were definitely intelligent,” Jarmo mused. “They were using tactics and working together. And they seemed to be guarding that structure we found.”

Leonore nodded. “It makes you wonder what’s inside that thing. And why it’s so important to them.”

Jarmo stroked his chin, lost in thought. “I don’t know. But I intend to find out.”

They spent the rest of the journey back to Earth planning their next move. They decided to report their findings to the ASTROCOHORS CLUB, but to keep the exact location of the artifact secret. They knew that there were likely other adventurers and treasure hunters out there, and they didn’t want to risk anyone else getting hurt.

When they arrived back on Earth, they headed straight to the ASTROCOHORS CLUB headquarters to report their findings. Jarmo explained the importance of the artifact, and the potential danger posed by the alien creatures guarding it.

The club members were skeptical at first, but Jarmo’s reputation as a seasoned explorer and artifact hunter gave him credibility. They agreed to fund a follow-up mission to study the alien creatures and learn more about the artifact. Jarmo and Leonore were thrilled. They were given a team of scientists and technicians to assist them, and they set out once again towards Mercury.

This time, they were better prepared. They had brought more advanced weaponry and equipment, and they had a team of experts to help them navigate the ruins of Pvallas and study the alien creatures.

As they approached the city, Jarmo felt a familiar sense of excitement and trepidation. But this time, he had a sense of purpose and direction. He and Leonore were working towards a common goal, and he knew that they could accomplish great things together.

They landed their spacecraft on the outskirts of the city and set up a base camp. They spent several days exploring the ruins, taking readings and measurements, and studying the alien creatures from a safe distance.

Finally, they decided to make their move. Jarmo and Leonore led a team of scientists towards the artifact, using their weapons to fend off the creatures that swarmed around them.

They approached the structure cautiously, studying it from every angle. They found a hidden entrance, and Jarmo used his knowledge of ancient languages to decipher the inscription above the door.

“It says ‘Enter at your own risk’,” he said, frowning.

Leonore smiled. “Sounds like an invitation to me.”

Jarmo nodded, his heart racing with excitement. They stepped through the door and into a vast, dark chamber. The walls glowed with an otherworldly light, casting strange shadows across the floor. In the center of the chamber stood the artifact. It was a massive crystal, pulsing with an otherworldly energy. Jarmo approached it cautiously, his hands shaking with excitement. As he reached out to touch the crystal, there was a blinding flash of light. Jarmo was thrown backwards, his body wracked with pain. He cried out, but the sound was drowned out by a deafening roar.

When he opened his eyes, he was no longer in the chamber. He was surrounded by a swirling vortex of light and sound, hurtling through space at incredible speeds. He tried to call out to Leonore, but his voice was lost in the chaos around him. He felt a sense of panic rising within him as he spun out of control, not knowing where he was or what was happening to him.

But then, just as suddenly as it had started, the vortex vanished. Jarmo found himself standing on a rocky planet, surrounded by strange, alien foliage. He looked around, trying to get his bearings, but everything was unfamiliar.

“Jarmo!” a voice called out, and he turned to see Leonore running towards him. “Are you okay?”

Jarmo shook his head, still trying to make sense of what had just happened. “I don’t know what happened. I touched the crystal, and then… everything went crazy.”

Leonore frowned. “We need to find out where we are. Let’s see if we can get a signal to our spacecraft and figure out what happened.”

They made their way through the alien landscape, scanning the skies for any sign of their spacecraft. But there was nothing, just a desolate, rocky wasteland stretching out as far as the eye could see. As they walked, Jarmo felt a growing sense of unease. Everything around him seemed alien and hostile. But he knew that he couldn’t give in to fear. He had to stay focused and figure out what was going on.

They finally managed to get a signal to their spacecraft, and Jarmo was able to access the ship’s logs. He quickly found the record of their journey, and his heart sank as he read what had happened.

“We were transported through some kind of wormhole,” he said, showing the logs to Leonore. “It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen before. And there’s no way to go back.”

Leonore looked at him, her face full of concern. “What do we do now?”

Jarmo thought for a moment, weighing their options. “We explore. We gather data. We try to find a way home. And we stay alive.”

They spent the next few days exploring the alien planet, gathering samples and data. They encountered strange creatures and bizarre landscapes, and every day brought new challenges and dangers. But they also discovered things that filled them with wonder and awe. They found ancient ruins, full of strange technologies and alien artifacts. They witnessed a supernova, blazing across the sky in a display of otherworldly beauty.

As they explored, Jarmo and Leonore grew closer. They relied on each other for support and comfort, sharing the experience of being lost in a strange and alien world. And as they worked together, they began to develop a plan for getting back home.

They used the data they had gathered to try to locate the wormhole that had transported them to this strange new world. They scoured the planet, scanning for any sign of the anomaly that had brought them there.

And finally, after weeks of searching, they found it. Just like that. A massive, swirling vortex of light and energy, just like the one that had taken them from Mercury. Jarmo and Leonore stood at the edge of the vortex, looking out at the unknown expanse beyond. They knew that there was no guarantee that they would make it back home, but they also knew that they had to try.

Jarmo took Leonore’s hand, and together they stepped through the vortex. They felt a sense of weightlessness, a dizzying sense of motion as they hurtled through space and time. And then, suddenly, they were back on Mercury. Everything seemed to be “just like that”. They stumbled out of the structure, dazed and disoriented. They were met by a team of ASTROCOHORS CLUB members, who rushed to their side.

“What happened?” one of them asked, looking at Jarmo and Leonore with concern.

Jarmo took a deep breath, trying to process everything that had happened. “We found something incredible,” he said, holding up a small, glowing crystal. “It’s a piece of technology from an ancient civilization, far beyond anything we’ve ever seen before.”

The ASTROCOHORS CLUB members looked at the crystal with wonder and amazement, and Jarmo could see the excitement in their eyes. “We have to study this,” one of them said. “We have to figure out what it is and how it works.”

Jarmo nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. He had completed his mission, and he had survived an incredible journey to an alien world. And now, he had a new partner in Leonore, someone he could trust and rely on in even the most dire circumstances.

As they left the site, Jarmo and Leonore walked side by side, looking out at the night sky. “It’s incredible, isn’t it?” Leonore said, pointing up at the stars.

Jarmo smiled, feeling a sense of wonder and awe. “It’s a big universe out there,” he said. “And we’ve only just scratched the surface.”

They walked on, their minds filled with the endless possibilities of what lay beyond. Together, they would continue their quest to explore the mysteries of the universe, knowing that whatever dangers they might face, they had each other to rely on.

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Trapped in the Turret

Jarmo and Tashana were finally taking a break from their demanding work schedules. They had been on the go for months, working on various missions, and their bodies and minds were in need of a break. After the last holiday on Uranus had been rudely interrupted, they tried again to find some peace. So, they decided to take a much-needed vacation to a small, picturesque village on the outskirts of Saturn. It was a beautiful place, with crystal clear waters and stunning views.

On this particular evening, the two decided to treat themselves to something special. They had heard about a unique feature in the village called “the turret.” It was a tall, cylindrical building that housed luxurious spa rooms. Jarmo and Tashana booked a room for themselves, which had a hot tub.

The room was everything they had hoped for and more. The hot tub was large enough for the two of them to soak in comfortably, and the room had a panoramic view of the sea. They had brought a bottle of champagne with them, and they sat in the tub, sipping on the bubbly liquid, and enjoying the breathtaking view.

Picture: Storyblocks

As they relaxed, they lost track of time, and before they knew it, it was late in the night. When they tried to leave the room, they realized that the door was locked, and they were trapped. They searched for a way out, but there was none.

At first, they were both flustered, but they soon calmed down and tried to make the best of the situation. Jarmo suggested that they continue to enjoy the spa and the beautiful view. So, they continued to soak in the hot tub and enjoy each other’s company.

Tashana looked at Jarmo, and a soft smile spread across her face. “This is nice, isn’t it?” she said, taking a sip of the champagne.

Jarmo smiled back at her. “Yeah, it is. It’s nice to finally have some time to ourselves,” he replied.

Tashana nodded in agreement. “It’s been a while since we’ve been able to just relax and not think about work.”

As Jarmo and Tashana lay in the hot tub, enjoying the warmth of the water and the soft glow of the stars above, they knew that something special was happening between them. Jarmo took Tashana’s hand and looked into her eyes.

“Tashana, there’s something I need to tell you,” he said softly. “I’ve been searching for the Temple of the Windharp for a long time now. It’s a sacred place, said to hold great power and wisdom. And I always thought that finding it was my greatest dream.”

“But being here with you now, I realize that there’s something even more important to me than that,” Jarmo continued. “It’s you, Tashana. I never knew that I could feel this way about someone. I never knew that love could be so powerful.”

Tashana smiled at him, her eyes shining with emotion. “Jarmo, I feel the same way. You are the most amazing person I have ever met. And I have to tell you about my adventures in the oceans of Neptun.”

Tashana then told Jarmo about the wonders of the underwater world, the strange and beautiful creatures she had encountered, and the mysteries of the deep. Jarmo listened with rapt attention, marveling at her tales.

“And do you know what the best part is, Jarmo?” Tashana asked, her voice soft and tender. “The best part is being here with you now, sharing this moment. I never imagined that I could feel so complete, so happy.”

Jarmo smiled at her, feeling his heart swell with love. “Tashana, I want you to know that I will always be here for you. No matter what happens, no matter where our paths may lead, I will always love you.”

And with that, Jarmo leaned in and kissed Tashana. The kiss was soft and gentle at first, but soon grew more passionate as they lost themselves in each other. As they pulled away, they knew that this was just the beginning of something special.

“I dream of a future with you, Tashana,” Jarmo said, his voice full of hope. “A future where we can explore the wonders of the universe together, where we can face any challenge side by side.”

“I share that dream, Jarmo,” Tashana replied, her eyes shining with love. “And I know that no matter what comes our way, we will face it together. Because that’s what love is all about.”

As they lay back in the hot tub, watching the stars above, Jarmo and Tashana knew that they had found something special in each other. They knew that their love was like the universe itself, vast and infinite, and that no matter where their paths may lead, they would always find their way back to each other.

As the night wore on, Jarmo and Tashana talked about their hopes and dreams, sharing their deepest thoughts and feelings with each other. They talked about their fears and their insecurities, but also about the strength they found in each other’s love.

Tashana spoke of her past, of the struggles she had faced as an amphibinoid trying to find her place in the world. She told Jarmo about the discrimination she had faced from some humans, but also about the kindness and acceptance she had found in others.

Jarmo listened attentively, holding her hand and stroking her hair. He could feel the pain and the joy in her words, and he knew that he loved her even more for sharing them with him.

They continued talking about the adventures they would have together, the places they would go, and the people they would meet. They talked about building a life together, about growing old together, and about the love that would carry them through it all.

As the night drew to a close, they both realized that being trapped in the turret had been a blessing in disguise. It had allowed them to open up to each other and finally confess their feelings. They fell asleep in each other’s arms, the warm water lulling them into a peaceful slumber.

The next morning, they were woken up by the sound of the door unlocking. They got dressed and stepped out of the room, feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. They knew that their lives were going to change from that moment on, but they were excited about the future and all the possibilities that it held.

Together, they left the turret and walked out into the bright light of day, ready to face whatever the future had in store for them. But they knew that no matter what happened, they had each other, and that was all that mattered.

As Jarmo and Tashana stepped out of the turret, they were met with the refreshing sea breeze of Saturn’s beautiful vacation village. They decided to take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the rest of their day, hand in hand.

As they walked along the shoreline, Jarmo couldn’t help but reflect on how much their relationship had grown since they first met. He had never felt this way about anyone before, and he knew that he would do anything to make Tashana happy.

Tashana, on the other hand, couldn’t help but feel grateful for Jarmo’s unwavering love and support. She had faced many challenges in her life, but with Jarmo by her side, she knew that she could overcome anything.

As they walked, they noticed a commotion near the water. They hurried towards the crowd and found a group of scientists who had made a fascinating discovery: a new species of sea creature that had never been seen before.

Tashana’s eyes lit up with excitement as she looked at the creature, her amphibinoid instincts kicking in. She spoke to the scientists and offered to help them study the creature, drawing on her expertise as an amphibinoid.

Jarmo watched in amazement as Tashana effortlessly communicated with the creature, her body language and vocalizations causing it to respond. He had always known that Tashana was unique, but seeing her in her element was truly a sight to behold.

After spending the day with the scientists, Jarmo and Tashana retired to their cozy cottage by the sea. They cuddled up together, watching the waves crash against the shore, and talked about their day.

Tashana was still buzzing with excitement about the sea creature, and Jarmo could see the passion in her eyes. “You know,” he said, “I’ve never seen anyone so alive as you are when you’re in the water.”

Tashana smiled at him, snuggling closer. “I’ve always felt most at home in the water,” she said. “It’s where I feel most connected to the world.”

Jarmo stroked her hair, his heart swelling with love. “And I’ve always felt most at home with you,” he said. “You make me feel alive, Tashana. You make me feel like anything is possible.”

They lay there in silence for a while, just enjoying each other’s company. And as the night wore on, they both knew that they had found what they had been searching for all along: love, acceptance, and the promise of a bright future together.

Over the next few days, Jarmo and Tashana explored the rest of the village and its surroundings. They went on nature walks, tried local foods, and even took a tour of Saturn’s famous rings.

As they sat on the observation deck, looking out at the breathtaking expanse of space, Jarmo couldn’t help but feel a sense of longing. “You know,” he said, “there’s still so much out there that we haven’t seen. So much we haven’t experienced.”

Tashana turned to him, a soft smile on her face. “And yet, we’ve experienced so much already,” she said. “Together.”

Jarmo took her hand, feeling a rush of emotion. “I know,” he said. “And I wouldn’t trade a single moment of it.”

They sat in silence for a while, lost in thought. But then Tashana spoke up, her voice soft but determined. “You know, Jarmo, there’s something I’ve been thinking about lately.”

“What’s that?” Jarmo asked, curious.

“I’ve been thinking about the future,” Tashana said. “About what we want to do with our lives. Where we want to go. What we want to see.”

Jarmo nodded, intrigued. “And what have you come up with?”

Tashana smiled. “I want to explore more of the oceans of Neptun,” she said. “There’s so much we still don’t know about the creatures that live there. And I think I could make a real difference, with my knowledge and experience.”

Jarmo’s heart swelled with pride. “I have no doubt you could,” he said. “And what about me? What do you see for my future?”

Tashana turned to him, her eyes sparkling. “I see you finding the Temple of the Windharp,” she said. “I see you unlocking its secrets, and bringing its music to the rest of the galaxy.”

Jarmo felt a thrill of excitement at her words. “And what about us?” he asked. “What do you see for us?”

Tashana leaned in, her lips hovering over his. “I see us traveling the galaxy together,” she whispered. “Exploring new worlds, discovering new cultures, and falling even more deeply in love with each other every day.”

And with that, they shared another kiss, lost in the promise of a future filled with adventure and love.

As their lips parted, Jarmo felt a sense of clarity wash over him. “You know, Tashana,” he said, “I think I finally understand what you’ve been telling me all along.”

“What do you mean?” Tashana asked, curiosity piqued.

“I mean that the journey is just as important as the destination,” Jarmo said. “I’ve been so focused on finding the Temple of the Windharp that I’ve forgotten to appreciate the experiences and moments that lead me there.”

Tashana nodded, understanding in her eyes. “It’s easy to get lost in the pursuit of a goal,” she said. “But it’s the journey that shapes us and makes us who we are.”

Jarmo smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude for Tashana and their conversations. “Thank you for reminding me of that,” he said. “And for always being there to support me.”

Tashana smiled back, her eyes shining. “Of course, Jarmo. That’s what partners do. We support each other, and help each other grow.”

They sat in silence for a while, lost in thought. But then Jarmo spoke up, a new idea forming in his mind. “You know, Tashana, I think I have an idea for our next adventure.”

“What’s that?” Tashana asked, curiosity piqued.

“Well,” Jarmo said, “what if we went on a journey together, with no real destination in mind? We could travel from planet to planet, explore new worlds, and see where the journey takes us.”

Tashana’s eyes widened with excitement. “I love that idea,” she said. “It’s like a true adventure, with no set path or expectations. Just the two of us, exploring the galaxy.”

Jarmo grinned, feeling a sense of excitement and freedom wash over him. “Then it’s settled,” he said. “Our next adventure will be a journey of discovery, with no set destination.”

And with that, they both leaned in for another kiss, feeling the thrill of anticipation for the journey ahead.

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In the Claws of the Tiger

Jarmo Dorak and Tashana Oyan had been through a lot since they first met during the Tournament of Death. They had fought together in various battles, faced many dangerous situations, and had become more than just friends. They had become a couple, and now they were taking some time off to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

They had chosen Uranus as their vacation destination, a planet known for its breathtaking scenery and peaceful atmosphere. They had rented a small cottage close to a beautiful lake and were spending their days swimming, hiking, and exploring the area. They had never been happier.

Picture: Storyblocks

But their peace was short-lived. One day, while they were enjoying a romantic picnic by the lake, they noticed some strange-looking people approaching them. They were humanoid, but their skin was a sickly shade of green, and their eyes were yellow and slitted like those of a cat. Jarmo and Tashana were immediately on guard, but the strangers seemed friendly enough.

“Hello there,” one of them said, smiling. “I hope we’re not disturbing you. We’re new to the area and were just looking for some friendly faces.”

Jarmo and Tashana exchanged a look. They had been in enough dangerous situations to know that things were never as simple as they seemed. Still, they didn’t want to be rude, so they invited the strangers to join them for lunch.

As they chatted, Jarmo and Tashana couldn’t help but notice that the strangers seemed to be sizing them up. They were asking a lot of questions about the area, the local security, and even about Jarmo’s and Tashana’s combat abilities. Jarmo and Tashana started to feel uneasy, and they decided to cut the lunch short and return to their cottage.

That night, they heard strange noises outside. They went to investigate and found that their cottage was being raided by the same group of strangers they had met earlier. They were not friendly anymore; they were armed and dangerous.

Jarmo and Tashana didn’t hesitate. They grabbed their weapons and prepared to fight. They managed to hold off the attackers for a while, but there were too many of them. They were outnumbered and outgunned.

Just as they were about to be overwhelmed, they heard a voice calling out orders to the attackers. It was a deep, menacing voice, and it seemed to be coming from a communicator.

“Stop!” the voice commanded. “Stand down. I want to see these two.”

The attackers hesitated for a moment but then backed off, leaving Jarmo and Tashana standing in the middle of the ruined cottage, weapons at the ready.

And then he appeared. The Tiger. He was tall and muscular, with a mane of red hair and a prominent scar running down his left cheek. He was dressed in black leather, and he had a cold, calculating look in his eyes.

“Well, well, well,” he said, looking at Jarmo and Tashana. “You two put up quite a fight. I’m impressed.”

“What do you want?” Jarmo demanded, keeping his weapon trained on the Tiger.

“I want you, of course,” the Tiger said with a grin. “You’re the only ones on this planet who tried to stop me, and I can’t have that. So, I’m giving you a choice. Join me, or die.”

Jarmo and Tashana exchanged a look. They knew what the right choice was, but they also knew that it would be a tough road ahead.

“We’ll never join you,” Tashana said, her voice firm.

“Very well,” the Tiger said with a shrug. “You leave me no choice.”

The Tiger signaled to his henchmen, and they charged towards Jarmo and Tashana. The couple didn’t flinch, and they stood their ground, ready for a fight. Jarmo drew his energy sword, while Tashana pulled out her plasma rifle.

The fight was intense. Jarmo and Tashana fought with all their might, taking down henchmen one by one. The Tiger was watching the fight from a distance, studying their moves, and planning his next move.

Jarmo noticed that the henchmen were fighting more aggressively than usual. They seemed to be enhanced with some kind of cybernetic implants. It made them faster, stronger, and more durable than normal human beings. Jarmo and Tashana had to be more careful and precise in their attacks, but they were still holding their ground.

The Tiger was impressed with their fighting skills. He had seen many warriors in his time, but none like Jarmo and Tashana. He knew that he had to take them seriously if he wanted to defeat them.

The fight went on for several minutes, and Jarmo and Tashana were starting to tire. They had taken down many henchmen, but there were still more to go. Suddenly, the Tiger stepped forward, drawing his own sword.

“Now, it’s my turn,” he said with a grin.

Jarmo and Tashana braced themselves for the fight of their lives. The Tiger charged towards them, swinging his sword with incredible force. Jarmo and Tashana dodged his attacks, but they could tell that he was a formidable opponent. He was fast, agile, and his attacks were deadly.

The three of them fought in a fierce battle, clashing their swords against each other’s. Jarmo and Tashana had to use all their skills and experience to keep up with the Tiger. He was a worthy adversary, and they could tell that he had been trained in combat since he was a child.

The fight went on for what seemed like hours, but in reality, it was only a few minutes. Jarmo and Tashana were tiring, and they could tell that the Tiger was still going strong. Suddenly, the Tiger made a fatal mistake. He left himself open, and Jarmo seized the opportunity. He charged towards the Tiger, thrusting his sword towards his chest.

The Tiger was quick, and he dodged Jarmo’s attack. But he didn’t see Tashana coming from behind. She fired her plasma rifle, hitting the Tiger in the back. The Tiger roared in pain, but he didn’t go down. He turned around, facing Tashana, and charged towards her.

Tashana fired her plasma rifle again, but it was too late. The Tiger was upon her, swinging his sword towards her head. Jarmo saw what was happening, and he leaped towards the Tiger, intercepting his attack. The two swords clashed together, and there was a blinding flash of light.

When the light cleared, the Tiger was lying on the ground, his sword broken in two. Jarmo and Tashana were standing over him, their swords drawn and ready for the final blow. The Tiger looked up at them, his eyes filled with respect.

“You are worthy opponents,” he said with a smile. “I respect you, but I still can’t let you live. I have too much at stake.”

Jarmo and Tashana exchanged a look. They knew what they had to do. They raised their swords, ready to strike the final blow. But then, they heard a voice calling out to them.

“Stop!” the voice said. “Don’t do it.”

Jarmo and Tashana turned around, their swords still at the ready. They saw a figure approaching them from the shadows. It was a tall, lean man, dressed in a long, black coat. He had a face that was covered by a hood, and his eyes glinted with a strange light.

“Who are you?” Jarmo asked, lowering his sword slightly.

“I am the Oracle,” the man said. “I have been watching your fight, and I know what you are capable of.”

“The Oracle?” Tashana repeated. “What do you want?”

“I want to offer you a choice,” the Oracle said. “You can kill the Tiger and his men, and leave this planet. Or you can spare their lives and bring them to justice.”

“Why should we listen to you?” Jarmo asked. “Who are you to make such a decision?”

“I am the one who sees all,” the Oracle said. “I have been gifted with the power of foresight, and I know what will happen if you kill the Tiger. It will lead to a chain of events that will have dire consequences for the entire universe.”

“What kind of consequences?” Tashana asked.

“The Tiger is not just a mere gangster,” the Oracle said. “He is part of a larger organization, one that seeks to overthrow the Solar Council and take control of the planets. If you kill him, it will only serve to strengthen their resolve.”

Jarmo and Tashana looked at each other. They knew that the Oracle was telling the truth, somehow. They had seen the evidence of the Tiger’s connection to a larger organization, and they knew that it would be a mistake to underestimate their power.

“What do you suggest we do?” Jarmo asked.

“You must spare the Tiger’s life and capture him and his men,” the Oracle said. “You must bring them to the Council and let justice be served.”

“And what about you?” Tashana asked. “What’s in it for you?”

“I have no stake in this matter,” the Oracle said. “I am merely an observer, a guardian of the universe. It is my duty to ensure that the balance is maintained.”

Jarmo and Tashana looked at each other. They knew that the Oracle was right. They had to spare the Tiger’s life and bring him to justice. They lowered their swords and approached the Tiger, who was still lying on the ground, wounded and defeated.

“We spare your life,” Jarmo said. “But you must come with us to face the Council and stand trial for your crimes.”

The Tiger looked up at them, his eyes filled with hatred and defiance. But he knew that he had been defeated, and he had no choice but to comply.

“Very well,” he said. “I will go with you. But mark my words, Jarmo and Tashana. This is not over. You have made a powerful enemy today, and I will not forget this.”

Jarmo and Tashana didn’t flinch. They knew that they had done the right thing, and they were prepared to face the consequences of their actions.

The Oracle watched them as they left the scene, the Tiger and his men in tow. He knew that their journey was far from over, and that they would face many challenges and obstacles in the future. But he also knew that they were strong and resilient, and that they would prevail in the end.

The Oracle disappeared into the shadows, his job done. He had fulfilled his duty as a guardian of the universe, and he knew that he would be called upon again in the future. But for now, he was content to watch and wait, knowing that the fate of the universe was in good hands.

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The Unseen Peril

Jarmo and Tashana, two explorers of the ancient cultures of the Solar System, had been on a roll lately. They had just defeated a Fire Dragon on Mars and acquired a valuable artifact. Their thirst for adventure and knowledge was still unquenched, and they had set their sights on Pluto, the dwarf planet farthest from the sun.

Pluto was a frozen wasteland, completely covered in ice and snow, just like Antarctica on Earth. But unlike Antarctica, Pluto was devoid of any known life forms. However, Jarmo and Tashana were not looking for life on Pluto. They were in search of an ancient artifact that could shed light on the lost civilizations of the Solar System.

Their journey to Pluto was fraught with dangers, but they had braved them all. The two had arrived on the frozen planet safely and had begun their search. They had been exploring the planet for a week now, but they hadn’t found any significant artifacts yet.

Picture: Storyblocks

One day, while wandering in a seemingly endless expanse of snow, they saw a glimmer in the distance. It was a faint light, but it was enough to catch their attention. They made their way towards it and found themselves standing in front of a massive structure.

The structure was unlike anything they had ever seen before. It was made of a black material that seemed to absorb light. It was perfectly symmetrical and seemed to have been built by an advanced civilization. The entrance to the structure was a massive doorway that was closed shut.

Jarmo and Tashana were excited at the prospect of exploring the structure, but they knew that it wouldn’t be easy. They had to find a way to open the doorway, and they had to be prepared for any danger that lay inside. They started searching the area for clues and soon found a small inscription on the side of the structure. It was written in a language they couldn’t understand, but Jarmo recognized it as an ancient script from the lost civilization of the Kuiper Belt.

Jarmo and Tashana worked together to decipher the inscription, and it read, “Only those who can see the unseen can enter.” They were puzzled by the message, but they knew that it was a clue to opening the doorway.

They searched the area around the structure and found a strange-looking plant that they had never seen before. The plant was covered in a thick layer of snow, and its leaves were black, almost as black as the structure. They brushed away the snow and examined the plant closely. They soon realized that the plant was not black, but it was transparent.

Jarmo and Tashana were amazed by the discovery. They had never seen a plant that was transparent before. They knew that the plant was the key to opening the doorway, but they didn’t know how to use it.

They spent the next few days studying the plant and trying to figure out how to use it. They soon discovered that the plant had the ability to make objects invisible. They experimented with the plant and soon found out that it could make them invisible as well.

Jarmo and Tashana were amazed by the discovery. They knew that the plant was the key to opening the doorway, but they also knew that it was dangerous. They didn’t know how long the invisibility would last or what other effects it would have on them.

Despite the danger, Jarmo and Tashana decided to use the plant to open the doorway. They knew that it was the only way to explore the structure and find the artifact they were looking for.

They ingested the plant, and within seconds, they disappeared. They walked towards the doorway, and to their amazement, it opened without any resistance. They had entered the structure.

Jarmo and Tashana cautiously stepped into the structure, their bodies still invisible. They walked through a long hallway that was dimly lit. The walls were made of the same black material as the doorway. They couldn’t see anything else, and they relied on their other senses to guide them.

After walking for what felt like an eternity, they came across a room. It was a massive chamber, with high ceilings and walls covered in strange markings. The room was lit up by a dim glow coming from the ceiling. In the center of the room, there was a pedestal with a glowing cylinder.

Jarmo and Tashana were amazed by the sight. They suspected that the cylinder was the artifact they had been looking for. They approached the pedestal, and as they did, the invisibility began to wear off. They could feel their bodies becoming visible again.

They reached for the cylinder, but as soon as they touched it, they were thrown back by an invisible force. They got up, bewildered, and tried to approach the cylinder again, but the same thing happened. They were being kept away from the artifact.

As they tried to get closer to the cylinder, they noticed a strange figure lurking in the shadows. It was humanoid, but its body was made of a black substance that seemed to absorb light. The figure had glowing red eyes that seemed to stare right through Jarmo and Tashana.

The figure spoke, but its voice was not like anything they had ever heard before. It was deep and resonating, and it sent chills down their spines.

“Who are you?” it asked. “What are you doing here?”

Jarmo and Tashana hesitated before responding. They were unsure if they should trust the figure or not.

“We are explorers,” Jarmo said. “We are here to uncover the secrets of this structure.”

The figure seemed to consider their words for a moment before responding.

“You have no right to be here,” it said. “This cylinder belongs to my people. It is not meant for outsiders.”

Jarmo and Tashana realized that they were in a precarious situation. They had come all this way, but they were being prevented from getting the artifact they had been looking for.

“We mean no harm,” Tashana said. “We just want to learn more about your people.”

The figure seemed to relax a little, but it was still cautious.

“If that is the case, then I can show you what you seek,” it said. “But you must be prepared for the unseen peril that lies ahead.”

Jarmo and Tashana nodded in agreement, knowing that they had come too far to turn back now. The figure led them through a door that was hidden in the shadows. They walked through a long hallway that was even darker than the previous one. The walls were covered in strange markings, and the air was thick with an eerie silence.

After walking for what felt like hours, they came across a chamber. It was a massive room, much larger than the previous one. The walls were covered in strange symbols, and the room was lit up by a dim glow coming from the ceiling.

In the center of the room, there was a massive statue. It was humanoid in shape, but it had six arms and two heads. One of the heads was looking towards the ceiling, and the other was looking down at the ground.

The figure walked towards the statue and touched one of the arms. As soon as it did, the room began to shake. The ground beneath their feet started to crack, and Jarmo and Tashana realized that they were in danger.

They tried to make their way back to the entrance, but the door was now blocked by debris. They were trapped. Jarmo and Tashana looked around frantically, searching for a way out. The room continued to shake, and they could hear the sound of crumbling rock and ice all around them.

“We need to find another way out!” Jarmo yelled over the noise.

Tashana nodded in agreement, and they both began to scan the room for any possible exits. As they looked around, Jarmo noticed something strange about the statue.

“Look!” he shouted. “The heads are facing different directions! Maybe we need to turn them both towards the ceiling!”

Tashana quickly caught on and ran to the other side of the statue. They both grabbed onto the heads and pushed with all their might. The statue resisted at first, but as they pushed harder, it began to turn.

As soon as the heads were facing the ceiling, the shaking stopped. The room fell silent, and the debris blocking the entrance began to move on its own, revealing a passageway.

Jarmo and Tashana quickly made their way towards the exit, with the figure following closely behind. As they emerged from the structure, they could see that the snow and ice around them had been disturbed. The ground was cracked, and there were rocks and debris scattered everywhere.

But the most shocking thing was the sky. The once clear and pristine sky was now filled with a thick fog, and strange shapes could be seen moving in the distance.

“What is that?” Tashana asked, pointing towards the shapes.

The figure stepped forward and looked towards the sky. It let out a deep sigh before speaking.

“The unseen peril,” it said. “It is a creature that we have been trying to keep at bay for centuries. But it seems that your presence has awoken it.”

Jarmo and Tashana exchanged worried glances. They had come all this way to find the artifact they were searching for, but they had inadvertently caused a catastrophe.

“What can we do?” Jarmo asked.

“We must act quickly,” the figure said. “The creature will not stop until it has destroyed everything in its path. We need to find a way to contain it.”

Jarmo and Tashana nodded in agreement, and they all set off towards a nearby structure. As they walked, they could hear the sounds of destruction getting closer and closer.

When they reached the structure, the figure led them through a long hallway that was lined with strange devices. The walls were covered in symbols that Jarmo and Tashana couldn’t understand. As they walked, the figure explained that the devices were designed to contain the creature. But they needed to be activated in a specific sequence, or else they would not work.

Jarmo and Tashana quickly set to work, activating the devices one by one. As they worked, they could feel the ground shaking beneath their feet, and they could hear the sound of the creature getting closer.

Finally, they activated the last device, and the ground beneath them began to shake violently. But this time, it was different. They could feel the ground stabilizing, and the sound of destruction began to fade away.

When they emerged from the structure, they could see that the fog had lifted, and the sky was clear once again. The snow and ice around them had been restored, and there was no sign of the creature.

“You did it,” the figure said, smiling at Jarmo and Tashana. “You saved our world.”

Jarmo and Tashana smiled back, feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment. They had come all this way to find an artifact, but they had ended up saving a planet.

As they made their way back to their ship, Jarmo and Tashana couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief. They had faced incredible danger and uncertainty, but they had come out on the other side. They had made a difference, and that was something that they could be proud of.

But their adventure was far from over. They still had to find the artifact they had come for, and they had to do it quickly. The longer they stayed on Pluto, the more danger they would face. The experiences in the cave had been a nice adventure, but probably had nothing to do with the artifact itself. It was always unbelievable how many different mysteries the solar system held ready.

They spent the next few days scouring the planet, searching for any signs of the artifact. They braved treacherous terrain and harsh weather, determined to complete their mission. Finally, they came across a strange structure that stood out from the rest. It was made of a dark, metallic material and was covered in strange symbols.

“This must be it,” Jarmo said, excitement evident in his voice.

They quickly made their way inside, searching for any clues that could lead them to the artifact. They found themselves in a large room, filled with strange devices and machinery.

As they searched, they heard a faint humming sound. They followed the sound to a small alcove in the corner of the room, where they found a strange, glowing orb.

“That must be it,” Tashana said, her eyes wide with excitement.

Jarmo approached the orb, but as he reached out to touch it, he was suddenly knocked back by a blast of energy.

Tashana rushed to his side, helping him up. “Are you okay?” she asked, concern etched on her face.

Jarmo nodded, his eyes fixed on the orb. “We need to find a way to get that thing out of here,” he said.

As they pondered their next move, they suddenly heard a strange noise coming from outside the structure. It sounded like something large was moving in their direction. They quickly realized that they had been followed. The danger they had faced before was nothing compared to what they were about to face.

“Well,” said Jarmo, “so much for the myth that there is no life on Pluto.”

Jarmo and Tashana quickly grabbed the orb effortless this time and made their way towards the exit. As they emerged from the structure, they were met by a massive, towering creature.

It was unlike anything they had ever seen before. Its body was covered in shimmering scales, and it had long, razor-sharp claws. Its eyes glowed with a fierce, fiery intensity, and it let out a deafening roar. Jarmo and Tashana stood frozen, unsure of what to do. They had never faced anything like this before.

But then, they remembered the lessons they had learned on their previous adventures. They remembered the strength and courage they had found within themselves. And they knew that they could not give up.

They stood their ground, ready to face whatever came their way. The creature charged towards them, its claws poised to strike.

Jarmo and Tashana braced themselves for impact, but at the last moment, the creature was knocked back by a blast of energy. The figure they had met earlier had arrived, and it was wielding a powerful weapon.

Together, the three of them fought the creature with all their might. They dodged its attacks, and they struck back with all their strength.

The battle was long and grueling, but in the end, they emerged victorious. The creature lay defeated, and Jarmo and Tashana stood panting, their bodies aching from the exertion.

The figure approached them, smiling. “You have done well,” it said. “You have proven yourselves to be true adventurers and heroes. So you shall receive the orb as a gift.”

Jarmo and Tashana smiled back, feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment. They had faced incredible danger and uncertainty, but they had come out on top. They had found the artifact they were searching for, and they had saved a planet in the process.

As they made their way back to their ship, Jarmo and Tashana couldn’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. They had accomplished their mission and had discovered something that would help shed light on the ancient cultures of the Solar System.

As they traveled through space, they couldn’t stop talking about their adventure on Pluto. They discussed the dangers they had faced, the creatures they had encountered, and the thrill of the battle. And they finally had discovered yet another artifact!

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Fighting the Fire Dragon

One month had passed since Jarmo Dorak and Tashana Oyan had fought for their lives in the Tournament of Death. They had emerged victorious and had become instant heroes, but they had no time to celebrate their triumph as they had other pressing matters to attend to. Jarmo had his birthday coming up, and Tashana had promised him a well-deserved break, a chance to relax and rejuvenate after the grueling tournament. She had arranged for them to take a vacation on the shore of the ocean on Planet Mars, a place Jarmo had visited several months ago.

As they arrived on the planet, they were taken aback by the stunning beauty of the ocean. It was vast and deep, and the waves were calm and soothing. They set up a small tent on the beach where they would stay for the next few days. Jarmo was thrilled at the prospect of being away from his work as a special agent for the ASTROCOHORS CLUB, and he looked forward to spending some quality time with Tashana.

The first few days of their vacation were peaceful and relaxing. They spent their time exploring the surroundings, walking on the beach, and swimming in the ocean. Jarmo was grateful for the respite and felt recharged with energy. However, on the morning of his birthday, their vacation took an unexpected turn.

Jarmo woke up to the sound of something roaring in the distance. He got up from his bed and went out to investigate, with Tashana following close behind. As they walked along the beach, they saw a massive fire dragon, soaring high in the sky, and breathing flames that scorched everything in their path. It was headed straight for their tent.

Jarmo and Tashana quickly realized that their vacation had taken an unwelcome turn, and they needed to act fast to save themselves. Tashana remembered that the planet Mars had a history of frequent dragon sightings, and she had come prepared. She had brought along a special weapon, a particle thrower that could extinguish the fire dragon’s flames.

Photo by David Clode on Unsplash

Jarmo grabbed the particle thrower from Tashana and aimed it at the fire dragon. He pulled the trigger, and the particles coming from the weapon engulfed the dragon, extinguishing the fire that it breathed. However, the dragon was not going down without a fight. It swooped down towards Jarmo and Tashana, its massive claws aimed straight at them.

Jarmo and Tashana were skilled fighters, and they knew how to protect themselves. They dodged the dragon’s attacks and counter-attacked with their weapons, striking the dragon in its weak spots. However, the dragon was persistent, and it kept coming back, determined to defeat them.

Jarmo and Tashana realized that they were not going to win this battle alone, and they needed help. They called for backup, and within minutes, a team of ASTROCOHORS agents arrived on the scene. They brought along a more powerful weapon, a laser gun, capable of piercing the dragon’s tough scales.

Jarmo and Tashana fought alongside the agents, taking turns to attack the dragon and defend themselves against its attacks. They coordinated their efforts, each one covering the other’s back. The dragon was fierce, but they were relentless, and they kept fighting, determined not to let it defeat them.

As the battle waged on, Jarmo and Tashana’s bond grew stronger. They trusted each other implicitly, knowing that they could count on each other in times of need. They fought as a team, each one relying on the other’s skills and expertise. They were united in their goal, to defeat the fire dragon and save themselves.

Finally, after what seemed like hours of intense fighting, the fire dragon began to weaken. Its attacks became less frequent and less powerful, and its flames started to flicker and die out. Jarmo, Tashana, and the agents took advantage of the dragon’s weakness and intensified their attacks, using their weapons to pierce its scales and strike it in its vital spots.

The dragon let out a final roar before collapsing on the ground, defeated. Jarmo, Tashana, and the agents cautiously approached it, ready to defend themselves against any last-ditch attacks. But the dragon was truly defeated, its breathing shallow, and its flames extinguished.

Jarmo and Tashana breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that they had triumphed against all odds. They turned to each other, and in that moment, they both knew that their bond had grown even stronger. They had fought side by side, facing danger together, and they had emerged victorious. Now the agents would take over and take care of the dragon’s body.

As they made their way back to their tent, Jarmo and Tashana were just happy to be alive and to have each other. The rest of their vacation was uneventful, and they spent their time recuperating from the battle with the fire dragon. They swam in the ocean, watched the sunset, and talked about their future together. Jarmo realized that he had developed deep feelings for Tashana, feelings that went beyond friendship or camaraderie. He knew that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her, facing whatever dangers or adventures lay ahead.

On their last night on the planet Mars, Jarmo took Tashana out for a walk on the beach. The stars were shining bright in the sky, and the waves lapped gently at their feet. Jarmo turned to Tashana and said, “Tashana, I know we’ve been through a lot together, and I know that we’re both fighters. But there’s something else I want to fight for. I want to fight for you. I want to be with you, always, no matter what.”

Tashana looked at Jarmo, and her heart skipped a beat. She had always felt a deep connection with Jarmo, a connection that went beyond mere friendship. She realized, in that moment, that she too had fallen in love with him. She took his hand in hers and said, “Jarmo, I don’t want to fight for anything else, but I want to fight for you too. I want to be with you, always, no matter what.”

They embraced each other, their hearts filled with love and hope. They knew that the road ahead would be long and treacherous, but they also knew that they could face anything together. They walked back to their tent, hand in hand, ready to face whatever the future held, together.

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Tournament of Death

Jarmo Dorak and Tashana Oyan sat in a dark cell, deep in the heart of the X’tarec city on Venus. It had been one month since they discovered the sunken palace on Neptune, but they had no idea how they ended up here. Tashana was an amphibionid, a race of beings that lived in the depths of the oceans on various planets, including Neptune, but Jarmo was just an ordinary human.

Jarmo could hear the sounds of the jungle outside the cell. It was a strange world with strange creatures. The X’tarec were humanoid, but they were also alien. They looked like humans, but their skin was scaly, and their eyes were a bright green.

Suddenly, the door to the cell opened, and two X’tarec guards entered. They ordered Jarmo and Tashana to follow them. They took them through a maze of corridors until they reached a large courtroom.

The courtroom was filled with X’tarec dignitaries, including the Great Ruler himself. They were all dressed in elaborate robes and headdresses. In the center of the room was a raised platform, and on it stood a High Priest of the X’tarec.

The High Priest looked at Jarmo and Tashana with disdain. “You have been accused of helping thieves steal treasures from the Sunken Palace on Neptune,” he said in a deep voice. “What do you have to say for yourselves?”

Jarmo stood up and tried to explain why they were searching through the palace, but the High Priest was not interested in his explanations. “Silence!” he boomed. “You will be judged in the Tournament of Death.”

Jarmo and Tashana looked at each other in horror. The Tournament of Death was a brutal competition where teams played a game called Ulohmy, a ball sport, where the losing team would be sentenced to death. The X’tarec had adapted the game to their own culture, making it more violent and dangerous. Jarmo and Tashana had no choice but to participate.

They were separated into different teams, and Jarmo found himself playing against Tashana. The game was played on a field surrounded by a high wall, and the ball was made of a heavy but also bouncy material.

Jarmo’s team quickly took the lead, but Tashana’s team fought back fiercely. The game was brutal, with players tackling each other to get the ball. Jarmo was a good player, but he was no match for Tashana. She was fast and agile, and she moved like she was underwater. Jarmo watched in amazement as she scored goal after goal for her team.

The game was neck and neck, but in the end, Tashana scored the winning point, securing her team’s victory. The X’tarec spectators cheered and applauded.

The Great Ruler himself came down from his throne to congratulate Tashana. “You have earned my respect,” he said. “And the respect of my people. That’s why we’re doing something that we never do otherwise: You and your companion are free to go.”

Jarmo and Tashana left the X’tarec city, relieved to be alive. They had learned a valuable lesson about exploring strange planets and cultures. They knew that they had to be careful in the future and that they could never let their guard down.

As they walked back to their ship, Jarmo couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude towards Tashana. He had never met anyone like her, and he knew that he could trust her with his life. They may have been from different worlds, but they were united in their love of exploration and discovery. And that was all that mattered to them.

As they lifted off from Venus, Tashana turned to Jarmo and said, “That was close. I’m glad we made it out alive.”

“Me too,” Jarmo replied. “But I have to admit, you were amazing out there. I had no idea you were such a great athlete.”

Tashana grinned. “It’s in my blood. Amphibionids have always been known for our agility and speed. We can swim like fish and run like cheetahs.”

“I can see that now,” Jarmo said with a chuckle.

They flew back to one of the island on Neptune and spent the next few days on their ship, resting and recuperating from their ordeal. Jarmo spent a lot of time studying the data they had collected from the sunken palace. He was fascinated by the technology and architecture of the ancient civilization that had built it. They had come to Venus because there was a hint to a jungle planet and the cultures of Venus and Neptune overlapped. Jarmo had assumed that the beings who built Oogramosh’s Palace were somehow related to the X’tarec. That was probably not the case.

Tashana, on the other hand, spent her time exploring the depths of the nearby oceans. She would disappear for hours at a time, using her amphibious abilities to swim and explore the underwater world.

One day, while Tashana was out exploring, Jarmo received a message from an unknown source. It was an invitation to visit a planet called Tarsus. The message was vague and mysterious, but Jarmo had a feeling that it was important. He decided to take the risk and accept the invitation. He knew that Tashana would be hesitant, but he also knew that she trusted him. He would have to convince her to go along with him.

When Tashana returned to the ship, Jarmo told her about the message he had received. She was understandably wary. “Who sent this message?” she asked.

“I don’t know,” Jarmo admitted. “But I have a feeling it’s important. We have to go.”

Tashana thought about it for a moment. She knew that Jarmo was a skilled explorer and that he had a knack for discovering new and exciting things. She trusted him, but she was also cautious. “Okay,” she said finally. “But we need to be careful. We don’t know what we’re walking into.”

Jarmo nodded in agreement. They set a course for Tarsus, a planet that was known for its lush forests and exotic wildlife. As they flew closer, they could see that the planet was covered in a thick layer of mist. It was eerie and foreboding, but Jarmo was determined to press on. As they landed their ship on the surface, they were greeted by a group of beings that looked like giant insects. They were friendly and welcoming, and they led Jarmo and Tashana to a large temple.

Inside the temple, they were met by a group of scholars who were studying an ancient artifact. It was a glowing crystal that pulsed with energy. Jarmo was immediately intrigued. He had never seen anything like it before. The scholars explained that the crystal was a key to an ancient technology that had been lost for centuries. They believed that Jarmo and Tashana were the ones who could unlock its secrets.

Jarmo and Tashana spent the next few days studying the crystal and deciphering its code. They worked tirelessly, trying to unravel its secrets.

Finally, after days of work, they were able to unlock the crystal’s power. The scholars were ecstatic. They thanked Jarmo and Tashana for their help and rewarded them with a small token of their appreciation.

As they left the temple and headed back to their ship, Jarmo couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. He had discovered something new and exciting.

Together, they boarded their ship and took off from Tarsus. Jarmo couldn’t wait to explore the secrets of the crystal. He knew that their work would revolutionize the way people thought about ancient technology.

As they traveled through space, Tashana turned to Jarmo and said, “I’m glad we came here. It was risky, but it was worth it.”

Jarmo smiled. “I agree. It’s always worth taking a risk when there’s a chance for discovery.”

Photo by JJ Jordan on Unsplash
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Shattering Doom

Jarmo Dorak had survived the strange experiences and the escape from the strange organization injured. Marion had delivered him to an ASTROCOHORS hospital in good time. He was able to recover, but as soon as he felt better, he became restless. Marion had been called to another mission. And he was still searching for the Temple of the Wind Harp. He had a new lead he was dying to pursue.

Photo by Kal Visuals on Unsplash

Jarmo had been on the planet Neptun for three weeks now. His mission was to find a space ship that had crashed on the planet two years ago. The ship carried a slab with a map that lead to the sunken palace of Oogramosh, located somewhere in the depth of the oceans of Neptun. It was said that the palace contained treasures beyond anyone’s imagination – and a hint to the Temple of the Wind Harp, the slab with the map. Jarmo, being an adventurer at heart, hoped that the temple was finally at hand.

Neptun was a water planet with only small islands dotting its vast ocean. Jarmo had to use dive gear to breathe under water, which made his search for the sunken space ship even more difficult. He had been diving for days, covering a large area of the ocean floor, but he had yet to find any trace of the ship.

On the fourth day, as Jarmo was diving near a small island, he saw a figure swimming towards him. It was a woman, about his age, with long blonde hair and green eyes. She looked human, but something about her was different. As she approached, Jarmo noticed that her skin was slightly shimmering, almost like it was coated with a thin layer of water.

“Hello,” she said in a soft voice as she came closer. “My name is Tashana Oyan. Are you lost?”

Jarmo was surprised by her sudden appearance, but he was glad to see another person on this desolate planet. “No, I’m not lost,” he replied, trying to sound friendly. “I’m looking for a sunken space ship. Have you seen anything like that around here?”

Tashana nodded. “Yes, I have. I can help you find it, but you have to promise me something in return.”

Jarmo raised an eyebrow. “What do you want?”

“I want to come with you,” Tashana said with a smile. “I’ve been watching you. You are very goal oriented. Something drives you. You want to find something that you have been looking for for a long time. And believe me, I also know these longings. So, will you take me with you?”

Jarmo thought about it for a moment. He didn’t know much about Tashana (he knew nothing about her, to be exact), but he could use all the help he could get in finding the ship. “Okay,” he finally agreed. “You can come with me. But be warned, it’s going to be a dangerous journey.”

Tashana smiled. “I can handle danger. I’m an amphibionid, which means I can breathe under water. Can you?”

Jarmo shook his head. “No, I have to use dive gear. But let’s not waste any more time. Show me where you saw the ship.”

Tashana led the way, swimming effortlessly through the water. Jarmo followed closely behind, feeling a little envious of her ability to move so gracefully. They swam for hours, until they finally came across a small group of looters who were trying to pry open the door of the sunken space ship.

Jarmo and Tashana quickly swam towards them, their dive gear making a loud hissing noise as they moved through the water. The looters turned around, startled by their sudden appearance.T hey also wore scuba gear. Jarmo could see that their helmets were equipped with a communications unit and he wondered if he would be able to talk to them.

“What do you want?” one of them growled, brandishing a harpoon. Jarmo could hear his voice clearly in his comm unit. So he was hooked into their system.

“We’re here to find a simple slab,” Jarmo said, trying to sound confident. “We don’t want any trouble.”

The looters looked at each other, unsure of what to do. But before they could make a move, a large water creature appeared out of nowhere and attacked them. Jarmo and Tashana watched in horror as the creature devoured the looters one by one, leaving only scraps of flesh and torn pieces of cloth floating in the water.

Jarmo and Tashana quickly swam away, not wanting to become the next meal for the creature. They swam for a while longer, until they found the entrance to the sunken space ship. It was partially buried in the sand, and the door was almost completely covered. Jarmo and Tashana used their strength to push the sand away, revealing the door.

Jarmo opened the door, and they swam inside. The ship was dark and damp, with water dripping from the ceiling. Jarmo turned on his flashlight, illuminating the interior of the ship. They searched through the debris, trying to find the slab with the map. After a few minutes of searching, Tashana finally found it. It was lying on the floor, covered in dust and sand. She picked it up, and they both swam back to the surface.

“Now that we have the map, we can finally find the target – the sunken palace,” Jarmo said, looking at Tashana. “Are you still up for the adventure?”

“Of course,” Tashana replied, her eyes gleaming with excitement. “Lead the way.”

Jarmo placed the slab in the sand and studied it for a few minutes. The map was carved into its surface. It was written in a language he didn’t understand, but there were some symbols that he recognized. He pointed to one of the symbols, which looked like a seashell that was native to Neptune. “I think this is where we need to go,” he said.

Jarmo got new scuba tanks and they both went back into the water. They swam towards the region that was marked on the map with the seashell symbol, which led them deeper into the ocean. As they swam, they saw more and more strange creatures, some of which were bigger than they were. Jarmo and Tashana had to be careful not to disturb them, as they didn’t want to get attacked.

Finally, after a few hours of swimming, they saw something in the distance. It was a large structure, made of white marble and adorned with intricate carvings. Jarmo and Tashana swam towards it, their hearts beating fast with excitement.

As they got closer, they saw that the structure was indeed a palace, and it was completely submerged in water. But what was even more amazing was that there were lights shining from inside the palace. It seemed that someone was still living there.

Jarmo and Tashana swam towards the entrance of the palace, which was guarded by two large creatures that looked like sea serpents. Jarmo pulled out his harpoon, ready to defend himself. But the creatures didn’t attack them. Instead, they simply watched as Jarmo and Tashana swam inside the palace.

The interior of the palace was just as magnificent as the exterior. There were marble pillars lining the walls, and the floor was made of polished white stone. But what really caught their attention were the treasures scattered throughout the palace. There were jewels, gold coins, and precious artifacts, all of which were worth a fortune.

As they were admiring the treasures, they heard a noise coming from one of the rooms. Jarmo and Tashana cautiously swam towards the room, their harpoons at the ready. They entered the room, and saw a figure sitting on a throne. It was a woman, with long dark hair and piercing blue eyes. She was dressed in a white robe, and had a regal bearing that made Jarmo and Tashana feel small and insignificant. Apparently she too was an amphibionid. When she spoke, her voice could be heard through the water.

“Who are you?” the woman asked in a commanding voice.

Jarmo stepped forward. “My name is Jarmo Dorak. I’m an adventurer, and I’ve come to explore this palace.”

The woman raised an eyebrow. “And who is your companion?”

“This is Tashana Oyan,” Jarmo said, gesturing towards Tashana.

The woman studied Tashana for a moment, her piercing blue eyes scanning over her features. Tashana felt a chill run down her spine as the woman’s gaze lingered on her for a moment longer than necessary.

“What brings you here?” the woman asked, her voice still cold and commanding.

“We’re searching for something,” Jarmo said, taking out the slab with the map. “This map led us here.”

The woman’s eyes widened slightly as she saw the map. “I see,” she said. “And what is it that you’re looking for?”

Jarmo hesitated for a moment, not sure if he should reveal his true intentions. But then he decided that he had come too far to back down now. “We’re looking for the sunken treasure of Oogramosh,” he said. “Legend has it that it’s hidden somewhere in these waters.”

The woman’s expression changed at the mention of Oogramosh. Her eyes became distant, and she seemed lost in thought for a moment.

“Oogramosh,” she repeated. “I haven’t heard that name in a long time.”

“What do you know about Oogramosh?” Jarmo asked, getting a little bit closer to the woman.

The woman looked up at him, her eyes filled with a mix of sadness and determination. “I know more than you can imagine,” she said. “But before I can help you, I need to know that you’re worthy of this knowledge.”

“What do you mean?” Tashana asked, confused.

“I mean that you must prove your worthiness,” the woman said, swimming towards them. “If you want to learn the secrets of Oogramosh, you must complete a task for me.”

Jarmo and Tashana exchanged a glance, both of them unsure of what the woman was asking for. But they were determined to find the treasure of Oogramosh, no matter what it took.

“What kind of task?” Jarmo asked.

“I need you to retrieve a necklace for me,” the woman said, gesturing towards a chest at the other end of the room. “It was stolen from me many years ago, and I’ve been searching for it ever since. It was brought back to me in this chest, but there’s a magical curse on it. So far no one was able to take the necklace out of the chest. If you can retrieve it for me, then I’ll help you find the treasure of Oogramosh. Perhaps you are worthy.”

Jarmo and Tashana swam towards the chest, their hearts beating fast with anticipation. Jarmo opened the chest, and inside he found a beautiful necklace made of pearls and gold. As he reached out to grab the necklace, he heard a noise behind him. He turned around, and saw that the woman had disappeared. In her place was a group of armed guards, their weapons pointed at Jarmo and Tashana.

“What’s going on?” Jarmo demanded, his harpoon at the ready.

“You have stolen from the queen,” one of the guards said, his voice cold and emotionless. “You will be punished for your crime.”

Jarmo and Tashana backed away, realizing that they were outnumbered and outmatched. And they have been tricked. But then Jarmo had an idea. He took out the slab with the map, and showed it to the guards.

“We’re not thieves,” he said. “We’re explorers, searching for the treasure of Oogramosh. The queen promised to help us if we completed this task for her.”

The guards looked at the map, their eyes widening as they realized what it was. “The map of Oogramosh,” one of them said in awe. “It’s real.”

Jarmo and Tashana saw their chance. While the guards were distracted, they swam towards the entrance of the palace, determined to make their escape. They swam as fast as they could, their hearts racing with adrenaline as they dodged the guards’ attacks. Tashana led the way, using her amphibionid abilities to navigate the underwater terrain with ease.

Finally, they made it to the surface, gasping for breath as they emerged from the water. They looked back towards the palace, seeing the guards still standing at the entrance, their weapons raised in anger.

“That was a weird experience,” Jarmo said, grabbing Tashana’s hand. “We have the map, but we still need to find the treasure.”

Tashana nodded, her eyes filled with determination. “Maybe we try if there’s another entrance to the palace,” she said. “Let’s go!”

They swam back towards the location marked on the map, navigating through the treacherous waters with caution. The sunken palace of Oogramosh was a sight to behold. It was located deep in the ocean’s abyss, surrounded by shimmering schools of fish and brightly colored coral reefs. Jarmo and Tashana swam around the palace, their hearts racing with excitement. No guards were in sight. What was all this about? They found a small hole in the wall.

As they entered the palace, they saw that it was filled with treasure beyond their wildest dreams. There were gold coins and jewels scattered everywhere, along with ancient artifacts and valuable works of art. So was the encounter they had before just a distraction? Strange things were going on here.

Andthe true treasure of Oogramosh was something else entirely. It was a scroll in a sealed bottle, written in an ancient language that neither Jarmo nor Tashana could read. But they knew that it was important, and that it held the key to unlocking the secrets that Jarmo wanted to find.

They took the bottle, along with some of the other treasures, and swam back to the surface. As they emerged from the water, they saw that the sun was starting to set, casting a golden glow across the sky.

“We did it,” Tashana said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “We found the treasure of Oogramosh.”

Jarmo nodded, a smile spreading across his face. “And we have the scroll,” he said. “Who knows what kind of knowledge it holds.”

They hugged each other, their hearts filled with a sense of accomplishment and adventure. They knew that their journey was far from over, and that there were many more mysteries waiting to be discovered. But for now, they were content to bask in the glory of their victory, and to dream of the wonders that lay ahead.

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