[sb118-ops] Ensign S'zurak - Ready Player Two?

[Alex Leatherman]

((Holodeck 2, Starbase 118))

S’zurak: That is the target of the Great Hunt.

Madison performed a timeout signal with her hands.

Marsh: Alright, timeout Ensign S’zurak. First off, what world are we on?

S’zurak: My homeworld. These are the jungless of Gornar. Or Tau Lacertae IX, as it is known in your records. There are many namess for this world. Even among our own kind.

Marsh: Give me the abbreviated version of the Great Hunt and its significance to you. 

S’zurak turned to face her fully. He did not object to questions, particularly when they pertained to Gorn tradition.

S’zurak: The Great Hunt hass two meanings. One is physical. It is an annual event among my clan, not unlike Terra’s Olympicss. Each year the format changes: a real hunt, ritual combat, or endurance trialss. The ssecond meaning is spiritual. The Hunt is what one chasess in life. Their purpose. Their path. For me, the Hunt led here… to Sstarfleet.

She pointed over at the creature that stood before them.

Marsh: What is this species? I’m assuming thats our ‘prey’ right?

S’zurak: That iss known as a T’karrak. The program hass selected ritual combat. Direct confrontation with a formidable adversary. ::He paused, noting her tension:: Do not be concerned. The holodeck ssafeties are active.

S’zurak turned to study the T’karrak. The unmoving creature stood nearly twenty meters away, as if awaiting a cue to begin. It was a quadrupedal reptile, armed with hooked talons, powerful jaws, and an array of sharp edges throughout its design. Its body also shielded in green scale plating.

Marsh: Response

S’zurak: Thesse weaponss before uss are traditional Gorn weaponss. The larger is called the Vss'Nok. I will take it. The ssmaller, Slish’Kot, iss lighter, more agile… and more forgiving for the untrained.

The Vss’Nok resembled an elongated sabre. Heavier, broader, and demanding brute strength to wield effectively. Its hilt was adorned with dull-cut gems, ornamental, yet clearly worn from use. A weapon of power and presence.

The Slish’Kot was shorter, with a wide, slightly curved blade built for speed and close-quarters combat. To the untrained, its weight would already be taxing in the holodeck’s enhanced gravity.

Marsh: Response

S’zurak: You may withdraw if you prefer. There iss no dishonor in that.

If you wish to proceed, and are ready, pick up your weapon.

Marsh: Response

TAG/TBC

Ensign S'zurak

Tactical Officer

Starbase 118 Ops

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