POJJ-R2C/2, now simply referred to as Esthar's World was one of the first habitable planets detected through the use of advanced astral probes. Initial probe data indicated a desert environment with potential signs of life. The mission was greenlit to establish contact and gather more detailed information about the planet and its inhabitants.
Departure and Arrival
On the day of the mission, the team gathered at CGHQ and received their briefing from General Edward Caze. They were informed of the probe's findings and the importance of their mission. Equipped with specialized gear and supplies, the team activated the gate and stepped through, arriving in the desert landscape of POJJ-R2C/2.
Exploration
Upon arrival, the team found themselves in a vast desert, with the probe stationed nearby. After reactivating the probe, the team split into two groups: Sunny, Venali, Ostara, Xircinus, Seldzsar, and Lora set out to explore, while the rest remained to establish a base camp.
Encounter with the Ja'ul
The exploration team followed animal tracks to an oasis, where they encountered and defeated two crocodiles. After refreshing themselves, they continued towards a nearby settlement. Upon arrival at a village, they discovered that the inhabitants were canine-like beings. Using magic, they communicated with the inhabitants, who mistook them for divine beings due to their magical abilities, but revealed they called themselves Ja'ul.
The Ja'ul spoke of a missing maiden named Le'la, and the team offered their assistance in finding her. They tracked her to a crevice guarded by lions, defeated the beasts, and rescued Le'la, earning the villagers' gratitude.
Journey to the City
The team learned of a festival in a nearby city dedicated to Esthar, the Ja'ul's god. Accompanied by Le'la, they traveled to the city, where they noticed an old building with dwarven symbols indicating an important location. They proceeded to the temple, where they were introduced to Esthar.
Confrontation with Esthar
Esthar, a parasitic entity inhabiting a Ja'ul host, initially welcomed the team but soon revealed hostile intentions. He demanded Seldzsar as a new host and imprisoned the rest of the team. Despite their attempts to fight back, they were overwhelmed and captured.
While imprisoned, the team learned that Esthar planned to kill them and raze the village. A traitorous Ja'ul guard, disillusioned with Esthar, helped them escape. He revealed that Seldzsar was likely beyond immediate rescue but assured them that he would not be killed. The team made the difficult decision to flee and save the village.
Escape and Return
The team returned to the village, where they coordinated the evacuation of the Ja'ul inhabitants to the portal. As they prepared to leave, Esthar, now controlling Seldzsar's body, confronted them. Esthar swore to find CG1's home world and seize their portal technology. The team managed to escape through the portal, bringing the Ja'ul villagers with them.
Aftermath
Upon returning to CGHQ, the team reported the mission's outcomes to General Caze. The mission was deemed a partial success; they had gathered valuable information and established initial contact, but the loss of Seldzsar to Esthar was a significant blow. The rescued Ja'ul villagers were provided with care and support.
Significance
The mission to POJJ-R2C/2 highlighted the dangers and complexities of interdimensional exploration. The encounter with Esthar underscored the potential threats posed by powerful entities seeking to exploit portal technology. The mission also marked the beginning of CG1's journey, setting the stage for future adventures and challenges.
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