Soundtrack: Ice Age by Derek and Brandon Fiechter
It had been a day since the Permian rescue as well as Hanna and Nigel's return. Hazel was ticked with her sister about her not telling the truth about her rescuing a Spinosaurus; she specifically told her to go for something a little more manageable. God forbid their mother had some words to say to the youngest Veran child. It was odd for Hazel, but both she and her mother were practically on the same page. Both of them were worried about Hanna. As for Nigel, her mother specifically asked her to pull him into the video conference (she had to text him) so she could scold him for allowing Hanna to do this without her family's consent. Hanna did try to defend herself and it did soften the scolding, even by a minute amount.
Still...the leader-to-be felt a little unnerved during the whole video conference the previous night. Her mother was the same to her when she found out Hazel's double life. Was this how it was to worry about a family member, especially your own blood? Even though Hanna was surrounded by rescue team members and Nigel himself, she still did a dangerous rescue behind her family's back. At least she was accompanied by others, especially since their target for the rescue was a super-predator. Poor Hanna was practically crying during the whole thing. The elder Veran sibling couldn't help but sympathize with her; she was in the same position she was in before. During the whole talk, she held her sister's hand tightly, reassuring her that everything was going to be okay.
She was in Hanna's place once. Her first official rescue involved a huge herd of dinosaurs (plus a small family of lemurs, a lone Pteranodon, and an unknown species of Carnotaurus). Not to mention she did it alone. Had things been different back then where her mother knew about the park, she would have gone ballistic. That kind of conference would have been worse than the one that happened that night. She was more lenient now since she joined the staff ranks, not to mention she finally understood her daughter's vantage point on the Residents and found a calling here.
Beth had threatened Nigel in her own way if he did not at the very least punish Hanna for her risky gallivanting; quitting her job. That hit Nigel hard as finding a Communications Manager is no easy feat. The previous candidates he went through for that didn't meet her skillset. Ever since Beth joined the Park, shipments have gone more efficiently and on schedule, more so than usual. She even helped establish outside connections to marketplaces that handled food that seemed to be of much better quality than the previous ones they had.
In the end, Nigel had to agree. Hanna was suspended from any rescue mission until she "learned the value of communications". That dampened Hanna's spirits, and Hazel understood that. Rescues were part of the fun in Prehistoric Park. By her estimate, this grounding on Hanna would last no more than about two weeks, maybe a month.
In Hazel's mind, it could have been worse. Hanna apologized for the secrecy and promised to give them a full detailed notification on her rescues going forward. As for Nigel, Beth had to pull him in for another private meeting. From what Hazel could glean from her mother afterwards, Nigel was persuaded to not do any other secret rescue missions involving the Veran girls and to give her a notification if any of them would partake in one. Not that Hazel had any trouble with it as she was already doing that in the first place with her mother.
In fact, she was already telling her of the outings she was having with Daniel. Due to her mother's intuition, she knew the two were fond of each other. Poor Hazel had to downplay the whole "dating" game, since they weren't actually dating. She didn't want to deal with her mother being nosy in her relationship business. She and Daniel were not exactly an item…though she hoped that would change soon. Beth didn't have a problem with Hazel going out on missions, given the woman's experience and the fact she wouldn't be alone.
Her mother scrunched her nose on the video feed when Hazel recounted the Eocene debacle. She agreed with her daughter, Daniel needed to make up for it. "One should never jump to conclusions until they get the full story" was what she said. "He is a cute boy. Don't worry, if he is adamant in courting you, he will make up for it. Give him time," was also what she said. Hazel held her tongue as her mother spoke, however these were things she was already aware of. She already had her friend circle prodding her about the two of them, her mother being included in it was just another nuisance. Although it was an innocent one.
When she mentioned she wanted to meet Daniel once her business in the United States was over, Hazel felt a sense of unease. Her mother would no doubt grill the poor guy and talk about embarrassing things. However, that was a bit of a way off. Who knows what would happen until then. If things did fly, Hazel made a note to talk to Daniel regarding her mother meeting him.
The next morning, the park was abuzz with excitement at another event that was occurring; a final test for two recruits. Amanda and Asami were given the green light by their tutors, especially after their trip to the Eocene. Both rookies had recovered from the harrowing boat episode, though Asami had a bit of a limp to her. The test preppers, especially Nigel, tried to convince her to wait a little longer until she was fully recovered, but the recruit was adamant in completing the test. As a result, the actual exam had to be adjusted to accommodate Asami's injury.
Before Hazel made her way to the Marine sector, where the test would take place, she got the chance to meet Hanna's rescue. The Spinosaurus. She was surprised to find her sister literally talking to the super-predator in the Holding Pen as he was dining on a pile of pork. Hanna did the introductions. His name was Sobek. Considering they went to Egypt and he was sort of crocodilian in appearance, Hazel found that name fitting. In her teenage years, she had read up on different mythologies around the world, with Egypt being at the top of the list next to Greek and Roman. Him being named after the Egyptian god of the Nile was a good fit.
Sobek was intrepid in his approach, but showed some decorum to his rescuer's sister. He even commented the two of them were kin because they "smelled alike". The two of them recanted the events of the mission, in which Hazel got the notion the carnivore was a bit of a hothead, not to mention stubborn. That was apparent when he recalled how he got his broken sail (it was covered in gauze and a cast) and that he was sour since that fight. Despite being a super-predator, he was still a teenager. He had some growing to do.
Hazel mused at the notion. As she watched her sister and Sobek converse, she couldn't help but see a connection between the two of them. Upon their first meeting, they already became friends. If her sister decided to partake in the Partner Program, she would no doubt choose Sobek. Considering her "advanced studies", Hanna would speed towards her final. That partnership remained to be seen though. A lot of things could happen.
After leaving the two of them for some privacy, the Asian made her way to the infirmary. Flia and Aeros were both sleeping. She watched them sleep peacefully on their cushioned mats. Suzanne told her they just got through the worst of the food poisoning and were merely sleeping it off. They should be better within the next two days. The woman was glad to hear their health was going in the right direction. Despite having Axel be her proxy for Flia during the Permian rescue, she missed her Pteranodon partner. She couldn't wait to fly with her again.
The Marine sector was packed with those wanting to watch the exam. Volunteer staff had to herd them towards designated sectors that were away from the site of the test. Asami and Amanda were already taken to another part of the area within the marsh/pseudo jungle. From what Hazel knew, they had to be blindfolded so they wouldn't get an idea where they were at. The Marine sector didn't just consist of the coast, it also had a sizable jungle and marsh. The idea was for them to start the test blind, as if they were on a mission to begin with.
In the sections where the audience gathered, large screens and projectors were set up so they could see the exam take place. Cameras were set up all around the area to project the event. Separate engineers were stationed to control the womens' whereabouts and select which cameras would be best. Most of the witnesses were on the ground while others, like Hazel, were on the cliffs. Her trick for being there? Arrive there first.
The cliffs overlooked the main portion of the sector, which included the bay and the shallows the seafaring Residents would gather. The boats needed for rescues and going out to sea had to be moved, mostly because of the test taking place. Only one boat was in the shallows, and that was all part of the exam.
Hazel was able to watch the progress via an iPad she was given by an engineer. Those that were on the cliffs were given one iPad per group. At the top of the screen was the preset timer they installed for the test. If there was one thing the cliffside observers and the ground observers needed to adhere to, it was they needed to be quiet. Unlike Daniel's test, this one required complete silence. Any cheering would disrupt the environment and would interfere with the exam in general.
They were in a simulated scenario if they were trying to escape back to the present. In other words, they were as close to the wilds as they could get. Both were tasked with working together (courtesy of Chris' approval) to get to the small islands by sunset. The test began about an hour ago. They had another thirty minutes before their test ended. At the beginning of their test, they were prompted to remove their blindfolds via pagers they were given. Random Residents were stationed in the middle of the marsh/jungle, some of them being carnivores. The candidates also had the "flags" on them so some of the Residents that were stationed there were allowed to chase them (provided they didn't hurt them and just grab the flags). The rookies had the white flags on their arms and legs, with a red flag on their back. If one of the white flags was taken, they're still allowed to keep going, but if the red flag was taken, they're dead and they fail the test. The Residents were allowed to make as much noise as they wanted to get them running or alert. Sure enough, they were quite on edge while they ran towards the shore. They had already lost three white flags each after getting jumped a few times.
Hazel smirked at the similarities of this scenario and what she and her team went through. Nigel and the other team leads may have helped set this test up, but it was mostly Chris who orchestrated it.
Nearby, passed some observers, were Chris and the Protoceratops sisters. Behind them were a few more attendees, a mix of human and dinosaur (those that were able to make the trek to the cliffs). They were all watching the event quietly, but the girls couldn't help but chatter away.
"Try the box over there. That might have something," said Territia.
"No no, they checked there already. Ooh ooh, how about that small door thing? Maybe it might have something?" went Beta.
Prima whined and buried her head against Chris' side. "Daddy, I really want to cheer. I don't like this quiet game."
Hazel made a quiet giggle. Ever since the events of Temporary Park, Chris and the girls have gotten quite close to each other. With him taking care of them and almost constantly being around them, it was no surprise when they started to see him as a parent figure. It didn't take very long for them to start calling him "Dad". The man had taken the title in stride; he was in effect, like a parent to them. Ellis did tease him about it at one point, only for him to get soaked by a soda can that Chris previously tampered with.
Quara huffed proudly. "Heh, too bad for you three. I win."
Chris sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. The girls were indeed testing his patience. "Girls, I told you all to stay quiet. That was the rule. And Quara, the game is still ongoing until I say it's done. Now please, everyone else here is trying to watch. No talking."
"Aw...but Dad..." the one with the single spot on the frill whined. The rest of her sisters followed her example.
Already at the end of his patience stick, the man gave in. "Girls, if we play another round of the quiet game and you all win, you can all choose what you want to eat afterwards. How's that?"
The younglings cheered, running around in circles happily. "Reese cups! Reese cups!" Quara chanted.
"Ice cream!" went Beta.
"Chocolate!" came Prima.
"Okay okay," Chris said, stopping the girls. "The game is starting. No talking."
The children snapped their beaks shut. The four of them glanced at each other, holding in giggles. They looked as if they were underwater and were running out of air. Their tails twitched with excitement. Around them, the bystanders couldn't help but snicker. Chris unfortunately was under the pressure of embarrassment.
Hazel made a small snicker. Chris has surely come far from the rookie that saw the girls as Residents that needed to be trained. Her attention returned to the small screen before her. Asami and Amanda were both on the boat, trying to get the broken vessel operational. The boat was already in the bay, but the cameras allowed them all to see what was really happening inside. Truthfully, this was all part of the test. They needed to figure out how to start the boat as it was "broken". The outer exterior of the boat was fine, it was the control panel and various components that were lying about that needed to be repaired. With part of their training being from Ellis in terms of mechanics and with Chris on seafaring/exploration, this really tested their knowledge.
Things weren't progressing well though. They appeared to be frustrated and only twenty minutes remained on the clock. The one thing those rookies didn't realize was that the boat was already broken from the start and was missing valuable parts. It was placed there to test their judgment.
Hazel was about to give up on them when she noticed one of them grabbing the handle of one of the cupboards. Her eyes went wide. That was the one that had a sign saying "Emergencies Only". One tug, and no luck. Amanda threw her hands up in frustration. It had a built-in lock. Asami went over and worked out the combination. Amanda then opened it and inside was a single item; a whistle. There was a piece of paper there, showing instructions on what to do.
They ran outside. The camera feed in the boat had transitioned to that of a camera drone that hovered several yards from their position. The device was focused on the rookies that waited on the beach. Hazel nodded.
"Good, they figured out that one," she muttered in approval.
The faint sound of a whistle. Hazel perked her head up. She could see two human figures next to the boat, facing the ocean. The one who had the whistle was Amanda. The day may be cloudy, but Hazel could make out a large, gray figure making its way towards the shore. It was round with a slim line at the front. When it got near, it surfaced, revealing the form of a plesiosaur.
Sedna had volunteered to participate in the exam. She wanted to do something exciting, so the team leaders obliged by giving her this task of being the candidates' carrier to the next part of the test. There were some exchange conversations between the three of them before it came to a conclusion. They boarded Sedna's back and rode off towards the sea, more specifically, the small island chain with their own marshes.
This part of the test was crucial. Both Amanda and Asami needed to stay on Sedna, no matter what. If any of them fall off, they fail the test. The radios of the staff members had flared to life, an announcement coming in saying the silence could now be broken, since they were far enough away from the shore. The attendees let out sighs of relief and they began to cheer on the candidates as they made their way towards the islands. The cheers were replaced by gasps and screams when a large gray shape came swimming towards them. The object broke the surface, revealing a slim, toothed whale.
Like Sedna, Tethys volunteered to partake in this exam. She was simulating the "predator" in this part of the test. Despite being close to her due date and a lot of objections to it, Tethys wanted to partake in this event. Her reason was she could go for a bit of exercise. In the end, they had to agree. It would make the exam more interesting. As long as she didn't exert herself too much, she could participate.
Being slim has its advantages. Tethys had speed on her side and was more nimble than her modern descendants. In no time flat, she had already caught up to the trio. She jumped, ready to chomp on Sedna. The plesiosaur saw this and weaved to the right, just barely missing the teeth. Tethys made a sharp turn and went for another jump. The Muraenosaurus sped up, the Eocene whale's body curving over the marine reptile, and the screaming candidates.
There was a rocky arch up ahead. The water met the bottom of the top curve. Sedna glanced back at the riders before making a dive. The audience exclaimed, saying the test said they weren't allowed to go in the water. Much of them argued Sedna made an error and the whole test was thrown off. Hazel had to settle the dispute and explain Asami and Amanda needed to stay on Sedna until they reached the islands. She glanced back at her screen and saw the trio surface at the other end of the arch. She showed them her screen and solidified her explanation; they both did not fall off, therefore they were still within bounds.
The audience relented, Hazel's explanation reaching their ears. Taking a look at her screen, she saw that Tethys had to go around the rock formation. Sedna's little stunt had bought them more time, at most a minute. That was enough as they had managed to reach the outer edge of the island cluster. Those around her cheered as the candidates disembarked towards the mini jungle.
Hazel wished Daniel was here to see this. It wasn't every day the park got these events. However, he could not as he had some personal things to take care of. Hazel tried to pry the answer from him, only for him to tell her they were personal errands and she need not concern herself with them. That put a damper on her spirits, but she obliged nonetheless. Perhaps they were family matters or minor things he needed to take care of. Whatever the case, she would find him later to fill him in on the events of today.
The woman frowned. Maybe he needed some alone time regarding the two of them in general. Was he having second thoughts about them? But, she gave him an opportunity to make up for it. He just needed to prove himself. Was that too much to ask? She won't deny he had all the right marks for her expectations, it was just that one little blemish that turned out to be a misunderstanding.
She shook her head. Perhaps she was overthinking it. Later today, she will check on him. Besides, she still needed to let him know whether these two succeeded in their test or not.
Ten minutes left on the clock. Asami and Amanda needed to reach the middle of the jungle in that island's clearing. In the middle were two tall posts that had their own ball-shaped bells. Once again, it was a throwback to Hazel and her Crew's own test. They just needed to get to the bells before the timer ran out. They were really cutting it close.
Too bad Daniel wasn't here to see this. If it wasn't for the cheering and the hollers of those around her, the exam had really turned up to eleven.
"Did I miss anything good?"
"Agh!" Hazel yelped and turned around. She fumbled the iPad in her hands which almost dropped off the cliff. Thankfully, her quick reflexes had caught it and it remained secure in her grasp.
She was about to retort at whoever jumped her when she found it to be a man with black hair in a Prehistoric Park uniform. The clear-cut muscles and the handsome features made her heart leap.
"Daniel!"
The man took his place next to her and sat down, his legs hanging off the cliff. He sat a little too close, causing her to blush completely red. The smell of sun and Old Spice invaded her nostrils.
"What are you-I thought you were busy!"
He shrugged. "I was. Had to take care of a few organizational errands. I got done earlier than expected. What's happening?"
"Asami and Amanda are at the tail end of their test. They just need to get to the middle of the island to get the bells. Two things though, they have less than ten minutes to get them and Tethys is stalking the perimeter."
Daniel smirked. "They're cutting it close."
"Right," she looked back at the screen. "Look! They just left the jungle and are in the middle of the island!"
Sure enough, the camera feed showed the rookies breaking out of the jungle line. There were noticeable scratch marks on their arms and legs along with a tear or two on their clothing. They must have gotten caught in some stray branches along the way. Amanda was in the lead, holding onto Asami's hand tightly. Hazel could clearly see them struggling, especially Asami. She was clutching her stomach and looking pained.
The woman started to worry. Asami was pushing herself too hard. She wanted to stop the test for her sake. Then her eyes glanced at the middle of the island. The posts were there, and dangling on them were the bells. It was already high tide and the water was barely touching them. However, the clearing also had a sizable channel surrounding it that connected to the ocean. This was the largest island in the chain, with the smaller ones a short swim away. The plants here were hardy enough to survive in oceanic environments, hence why it was the perfect place for Residents like Yuuto and Bana.
Such a channel also posed a problem. That problem revealed itself when it broke the surface. Tethys had returned. Her arrival made the rookies scramble towards the middle of the island and down to the channel. They had to swim to get to the sandbar.
Due to her girth and the circumstances of the tide, the whale had beached herself. Her stomach was practically hugging the sand. She flailed about, flipping up sand as she struggled. Asami and Amanda, still holding on to each other, swam for dear life.
With another tug, Tethys was nearly halfway in. Both rookies sped closer to the sandbar. Hazel could practically feel the knot in her stomach. The audience around her exclaimed and yelled as they urged the girls to keep moving. Glancing at Daniel, she saw him watching silently, but she could tell he was interested to see how it would end.
Tethys had given her word she would not harm them. All she needed to do was touch them and that was it. It was basically a game of tag on steroids. That was the other part of the rule concerning this test. Once they got to the ocean, they needed to make it to the island in one piece. If they were touched by the predator that was stalking them in the ocean, in this case Tethys, that counted as a fail on the test.
The Basilosaurus roared and pushed forward. A few lunges in and her body was in the channel. The whale sped towards the two girls who were a hair's breadth from shore. She launched forward, her head ready to touch them.
Luck was on the rookies' side as they just made it to the shore. A short sprint and the whale's mouth barely missed them. The two of them rushed up to the nearly submerged poles.
Two minutes left. Hazel gripped the iPad tighter. They just needed to wade through the sand and touch the bells.
"Come on you two…just a little more," Hazel watched the screen, praying for their victory. "They're right there for the taking."
Asami tripped. A splash followed by a ripple went around her. The rookie struggled to get up. Her hands were on her left knee. The audience gasped and made even more exclamations. Hazel grit her teeth. She must have injured herself.
Less than a minute left. Amanda came back for her. The two of them struggled through the sand and water.
Both of them outstretched a hand at the poles. They reached for their targets, the silver bells. They were right there, a hand's reach away. Amanda was the next one to trip. Something caused her to lose balance, whether it was a rock or a piece of wood. Asami tripped as well. The two of them lay face flat on the water before submerging.
The audience gasped. They stared at the screen, hoping for the best. However, the two of them breached the surface, raising one hand up. In their palms was a roped string with a silver object dangling.
The alarm in the iPads beeped. Time was up. They have done it.
The bystanders cheered. Hazel joined in, happy about the outcome. Daniel merely smiled and nodded in satisfaction, as well as clapped a bit too. The Park's rescue team has two more members to add.
With the test now over, the overseers of the event gathered at the main hub of the sector where the facilities were. Asami and Amanda arrive, no doubt hitching a ride on either Sedna or Tethys to get there. Both of them were limping, their legs showing scrapes and scratches. They were supporting each other as they walked. The two of them were soon surrounded by those who congratulated them.
Chris and Ellis, who saw the event in another area, came towards them. They showed their form of approval by patting their heads gently and telling them they officially passed. They were now able to choose their partners and to be fully inducted into the Park's rescue teams.
As the cheering went on, Hazel couldn't help but glance over at Daniel, who had joined in the celebration. Not long ago, he too was in this position. Like the girls, he had come far from being the rookie that knew nothing about this place. He was able to befriend the only other male Pteranodon in the park and learn how to fly. Her teachings had reached him. His success, along with today's victory, showed that anyone could pass this program. They could be on the same level as Hazel and her Crew. Perhaps they could form their own team if they wanted to.
It was only a matter of time.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
By the time the next day rolled around, things in the park had calmed. Like with Daniel's victory, a party was held to celebrate Asami and Amanda completing the program. Unlike with the previous party, this one was held in the Marine sector so the Residents there could partake in the event. It was mostly an outdoor gathering and multiple torches were lit to illuminate the area. Wooden tables were set up for the humans to sit and dine. There was much dancing and music playing. Most of the human food was seafood, with some generic selections. The drinks were varied as well. As for the Residents, the Park kept with the needed variation to adhere to specific diets. To Hazel, it was almost like a luau; a prehistoric ocean-themed luau.
Hazel received word on the status of the other candidates. Anneli was to have hers within the next two weeks. The rest were still to be determined. Alongside their usual studies, they had to train with Nero on a series of workouts. Hazel couldn't help but notice the former rival of Aladar being more enthusiastic in his training regimes. He was more spirited, just as forceful as he was on his first run, and a little more creative in his tactics (provided they were dulled down for humans). It was almost like he was enjoying it.
The young adventurer was exhausted that morning. That was mostly her fault; she didn't stay too long at the party, but she ate a little too much. So much that she fell into a food coma. Thankfully, Daniel was there to help bring her back. He too stayed for a while, mostly because the table selections looked appetizing. That and Chris had pulled him into a little competition involving numerous games to see who could top the other. Those games included arm-wrestling, volleyball, a foot race from one end of the bay to the other, and a break dance competition. Chris won the arm-wrestling and break dance, but it was Daniel who won the volleyball and foot race. It was a tie, but it was still an enjoyable one. In fact, Hazel found it enjoyable to see Daniel having fun. She had never seen him partake in fun events.
Hazel was glad Daniel was there. She may have been almost half-asleep, but even she remembered he volunteered to bring her home. The woman passed out on the drive back to the main hub, however, she could have sworn she felt the trickle of fingers stroke her forehead and cheek. They were warm, soft, and gentle. They felt good.
By the time she woke up, it was already well past dawn. She was already in her room, still in the T-shirt and shorts she used the previous day. She didn't have to think too hard on how she got there. That brought a smile to her face. It was a significant step in the right direction. However, he still needed to prove himself a little more in her eyes.
Hazel was the only one in the Cabin, everyone else having gone to work for the day. After she cleaned herself and had breakfast, Hazel received a text from Daisy. The message said "When you have time, please meet me in the infirmary. I need your help on something." She was going to help feed the Residents today as well as do check up on the herds in the Socialization Fields. After the feeding seemed like a good time.
The first half of the day was rather busy. Get a few wheelbarrows ready with small stones and bring them to the sauropods. Prepare and hand over the meat for the carnivores. Get a wheelbarrow of fruits and some leaves ready for the lemurs. Get various grubs ready for Twitch and Scorpio (and vegetation for Ben) at the Bug House. Get some duck feed ready for Ornith and her troupe. It was very busy, but she got it done with the other employees she was with.
On her way to lunch, Hazel made a quick stop with the botanists and their greenhouse. Thanks to Nigel's approval, and Hazel's suggestion, they started working on the Cave Aloe she and Daniel found during Lilith and the Dracorex Knights' rescue. Since they grew in nutrient poor conditions (in this case, a cave), they created a little den for the plants to grow using various rocks and bits of soil. Large lamps were placed at an angle facing the entrance so they could get a little bit of sunlight. Because they grew in a shaded environment, they didn't need too much light. The lamps would be frequently moved to make sure they don't hit the plants as they expand. They only needed water every two weeks. As far as Hazel noticed, the plants were doing quite well. Once they outgrow their temporary home, they would need to be moved to a more suitable spot where they could expand, without messing with the local vegetation.
A few of the aloe were reserved for experimental uses. The botanists were working with some of the vets to study how the plant operates and their effect on individuals. They got some testimony from Plio and the other lemurs regarding it. They just want to see how it operates in action, as well as study its biology. The goal was to not only cultivate it, but to use it in the park's medical procedures. Perhaps they could create a serum or an ointment where they wouldn't need to rely on too many topical substances.
After checking on the Cave Aloe and the botanists' status, Hazel went straight for the bistro. The bistro was practically packed, but Hazel managed to find a table that was empty next to a window. Lunch was broiled fish with seasoning (technically leftovers from the night before), brown rice, mashed potatoes, green beans, and a cup of orange juice. She scarfed the whole meal down. Hard work can rile up a person's appetite.
With her meal done, she checked her phone and saw it was 1:00. She had about forty-five minutes before she needed to make her way to the Socialization Fields. She could stop by Daisy and see what she needed in the meantime. Wanting to walk off her meal, she made her way towards one end of the park, where Kerato resided. It had been a while since she passed by his enclosure. Other than coming by the Crew's Cabin, he would also have his meals in his enclosure.
"Alright that's enough! Get out! GROAAAAAH!"
The outburst brought Hazel running towards Kerato's enclosure. For as long as she's known him, the Elasmotherium was always ornery. He was never a fan of particular individuals coming to his enclosure unless they needed to be, like Daisy looking after him or a vet doing a checkup. He only tolerated keepers cleaning his place as long as they didn't linger beyond their allotted time, per his expectations. After he met Daisy, his orneriness seemed to have taken a damper by a miniscule percentage.
Though that wouldn't explain what Hazel was seeing. His enclosure was a total mess. Rocks and trees were broken down as a result of him constantly ramming them. Circles of dirt were everywhere as he kicked them up from his charging. Parts of his enclosure barrier were worn down. Keepers were retreating to the nearest exits as he chased them all out.
"Hey we're not even close to done yet!" one employee remarked horridly.
"Your place is still a mess!" another said.
"Don't care! I want to be alone!" Kerato snorted, moving his head upwards as if the horn were slicing through air.
"Geez you could have said that earlier! Come on guys, we'll need to let Daisy and Bob know. We'll try again tomorrow," said the first keeper. The group groaned and spoke with each other on how to proceed going about Kerato's cranky mood, the lot of them passing by the bystanding Hazel.
Hazel stared at Kerato, the wooly rhino marching back towards a trough full of hay. Usually, she would consider this normal, but there was something off about him. His gait was slower than usual, his expression almost...angrier? Did he not sleep well? He couldn't be sick, she would have heard about it from Daisy or Suzanne or any other vet. Why would he become destructive? He can't be that cranky...
Shaking her head, she planned her next move. Hazel cut her walk short and made her way straight to the infirmary. Daisy should know about this.
Sure enough, the Grecian was there, organizing some files in one corner of the building. It was a couple of makeshift cubicles that contained small office spaces. They looked like small offices too. These were where vets did their data entries as well as organized files about the patients. The rest of the work was done in the inner parts of the infirmary. There weren't too many vets or patients present, so it wasn't crowded.
In one particular part of the infirmary were Flia and Aeros, having been moved to make room for a Pachyrhinosaurus that was suffering from a headache. Both of them were sound asleep, but they snuggled close to each other. The sight amused Hazel, despite her friend's denial of the two of them being together. Hazel knew it would happen, it was just a matter of time. The two of them touching beaks was adorable. Asking a nearby vet about their condition, she received word they would be discharged later today. That was good news for Hazel, one less thing to worry about.
She approached Daisy and the two of them began their impromptu meeting, the vet having finished her inventory and filing.
"Thank you for coming, Hazel. I wouldn't have called you if it wasn't serious," the soft spoken woman said.
Hazel shrugged. "No problem. So, what's going on?"
"I...I need your help on something. A rescue," she replied quickly.
The Asian blinked. "A rescue? You're planning to go on one?"
"Well...yes, I suppose," she gestured to walk with her outside the infirmary.
"Oh, a rescue. What's so dire about it?"
Daisy shifted in her step, her expression looking uneasy. "Oh, it's just I don't really have anybody else to come with me. None of my students are fully ready, Chris and Ellis are busy teaching or preparing their students for their tests, and the other rescue teams are either recovering from their last trips or they are helping everyone here with the new arrivals. Then, there are those that are rather...against my idea, so to speak. Besides, I'd much rather go with a small team, more specifically, with 'oi filoi' (friends). Are...are you and Daniel busy, by any chance?"
She shook her head. "Not really. We don't have anything going on right now. I did have something in mind for a rescue, but I'm willing to delay it for a while."
"Oh, I didn't mean to intrude-"
Hazel waved dismissively. "Nah, don't worry about it. What time period are you planning on going to?"
Daisy gulped. "Well...I want to go back to the Ice Age."
The leader-in-training cringed. Memories of their time in Temporary Park resurfaced in her mind. The intense cold, the icy desert, the bitter wind chills, and the problems that came with it ran like a fast-paced movie. She now understood what Daisy meant when people were against her request. This reminded them too much of their most recent trial. Neither of them wanted to experience it again, or not for a long while. It was a sore topic, one she could sympathize with.
"I see...I guess that explains why there are some that don't want to go."
Daisy nodded. "Naí (yes)...but it's been a while since I've gone on a rescue and I need to...get some fresh air, if you want to put it that way. I ran it by Suzanne and she told me to take my usual cautions. In other words, she's okay with it as long as I have others to go with."
Hazel thought for a moment, slowly sighing. Daisy is her friend. No one else wants to go with her for obvious reasons. While this is a frigid environment, at least it isn't Temporary Park. Daisy can't go off alone. Nodding, she made up her mind.
"Well, Daniel and I can go, but Flia and Aeros are still benched," she briefly glanced at the sleeping pterosaurs. "In any case, I doubt they'll be peachy keen on going to a cold climate right now."
"That's alright. Kerato will come with us."
"What's your rescue target?"
"Targets," she corrected. "A herd of Megaloceros."
Hazel raised a brow. "You mean the deer you encountered on your last trip?"
"Naí, those. I...am interested in them. I am sure the Park won't be against having some either."
She thought for a moment. "Hm...they'll need to have frequent haircuts like Martha and Kerato then. Okay. I'll let Daniel know the plan then. When do you plan on executing the mission?"
"Tomorrow, if that is alright with you?"
"That's fine. That'll give us time to get ready. Did you let Nigel know?"
"I will," Daisy replied. "I just wanted to run it by you first."
Hazel gave her a schooling frown. "Typically, it's usually better to ask the higher-ups for permission to do it first before asking friends or teammates to come along."
The woman stammered, her nervous demeanor ever present. "I...I know. I'm sorry. I've just been...busy lately. But I'm sure Nigel will say yes."
"Hm...okay then. Well, let me know what he says before I go and tell Daniel."
Daisy clasped her hands together, her face beaming. "Okay. Thank you. Um...if it's alright with you, can you please help me with some of these tasks? I'm a little overwhelmed at the moment."
Hazel stayed and helped Daisy with working in the infirmary. As she helped her with her tasks, she couldn't help but think about their whole conversation. Call it an eagerness to go out, but something about Daisy felt off to her. She's normally not one to call a rescue out of the blue. Much less suggest one. She's too shy for that. Not to mention this sounded a little "too" urgent.
She mentioned Kerato's cranky mood. Daisy promptly dismissed it, saying that he didn't sleep well and will talk to him later about allowing people to clean his place, despite his mood. Hazel accepted the answer, but couldn't help but feel there was something more to it. Perhaps this trip to the Ice Age will bring him around.
Later that day, while she was relaxing at their cabin, Hazel got a message from Daisy saying Nigel agreed on the mission. She promptly alerted Daniel the news and they planned for the rescue the next day.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
The next day...
The small group of four got their supplies ready for the trip to the Ice Age. Before then, Hazel and Daniel paid a visit to Flia and Aeros as they had just been discharged from the infirmary. They ran the plan with them, letting them know they would be gone for about a day or two. The two pterosaurs were wary of their friends going off without anyone to look out for them. And since their last visit to prehistoric Alaska, neither of them were suited for cold environments. Flia suggested they bring Martha or the Sabers along. Hazel had to tell her the mammoth was busy with looking after Mikiya and her friends (not to mention make sure she keeps the calf out of trouble) and the Sabers weren't up to going to a cold environment for a while. The human reassured them they would be fine since Kerato was coming along. The two flyers had to agree.
Hazel was dressed in the winter garb she used for Temporary Park; her blue coat, earmuffs, gloves, and snow boots. The only difference was she added ski pants in addition to her ensemble to make sure she was bundled up. Daniel had to borrow some from the storage; a thick, red coat, black ski pants, snow boots, and thick gloves. Daisy was wearing a pink, long thick coat with pink ski pants and matching snow boots. Her mittens are also matching, but she also wore a matching pink hat.
They hurriedly got their things together as they were practically baking in the African sun. The introductions for the revamped show and installing their on-person cameras had to be done quickly as well. Thanks to some help from the other staff, two snowmobiles were already set up in their desired destination. The portal shimmered ahead revealing a frigid landscape, the cold air leaking into the African valley. Their supplies now ready, they breached the temporal distortion into the Ice Age. Their way back had closed behind them as soon as they stepped through.
They had arrived in the Pleistocene in Europe, 42,000 years ago.
Except for their time in Temporary Park, Hazel had never truly been to cold environments in prehistory for a rescue. This was practically her first time. Looking around, the environment was akin to the areas of northern Russia, especially in winter. It was a boreal forest, consisting of trees that were hardy enough to withstand cold temperatures. Any low lying vegetation was covered by ice and snow. It was cloudy, a gray sheen covering the sky. Bits of the sun's rays peeked through the blanket of clouds, only to disappear shortly after. A bitter wind chill met Hazel's skin, as if a ghost had passed through her. Despite the layers she had on, the cold still bit her body.
"Phew...wow. This is southern Poland 42,000 years ago?" Daniel commented, having recovered from the wind.
"Yup, we're in Poland," Hazel confirmed.
"Huh...well scratch this off my bucket list of visiting Poland, though I didn't expect it to be the distant past."
She eyed him curiously. "Bucket list? I wonder what else is on it."
He shrugged, a bit of humor in his expression. "Eh, it's kind of extensive. Though riding on these snowmobiles is one of them."
"Megaloceros prefer open plains to roam around in," Daisy said, interrupting their conversation. "Trees will hinder them. I say we ride ahead until we get to a clearing."
"Sounds like a plan," Hazel agreed, not taking Daisy's interruption personally.
"Kerato can you-" the Grecian started but was then cut off by the wooly rhino she rode on.
"Yeah yeah, I know Flower," he sniffed the air. "I smell grass up ahead. It's faint, but it's in that direction."
"Then that is where we need to go," she answered.
"Let's be careful though," Hazel warned. "Lots of trees-holy shit!"
Kerato bellowed and charged ahead, leaving the two humans and their snowmobiles behind. There was a tree in front of him that he mowed down easily, the bark and branches having broken long before they collapsed on the snowy earth. His rider gripped on tightly as the megafauna charged his way forward.
Daniel looked at Hazel, his reaction quite stunned. "Not much of a talker right now?"
She frowned. "Or I talk too much."
It could be that. Or it could be Kerato still not being in a good mood. He didn't speak at all during their quick meeting back at the park several minutes ago. He just stared off at the portal, not giving any regard to those around him. She didn't bother asking in fear of getting on his bad side. She and Kerato may not be close, but she didn't want their acquaintance relationship to be strained. Whatever was going on with Kerato, she figured Daisy would help him. She would be the person to do that.
Hazel and Daniel mounted their snowmobiles and rode off. The trees and the snow zipped passed them, the cold wind brushing against them like a freezing coat. They followed the path of destruction Kerato left behind until they caught up to him. Both humans flanked him on both sides.
"Whoa! Easy there, big guy! No need to be so reckless!" Daniel called out.
"Shut it, ant!" he roared.
"What?" the rookie barked in defense.
"Sorry!" Daisy gave him an apologetic look. "He's uh...grumpy! More so than usual."
"Yeah, we can see that!" went Hazel. "Are you okay, Kerato?"
"Trying to concentrate!" The Elasmotherium knocked down another tree, the humans having to sidewind just to avoid the crashing timber.
The trek had gone on for several more minutes. Suddenly, the forest gave way to open snow plains. Bits of brown grass and vegetation peeked out from beneath the frosty blanket. Hills and depressions stretched for miles, with mountains and more forests that arced around the plains towards the right. The wind had died down again, giving the humans some respite from the cold, albeit small. A couple animal species roamed the plains; musk oxen and giant steppe bison grazed in separate portions of the grassland. All of them had fur in brown shades. Hazel could have sworn she saw a family of white-furred foxes going over one of the hills. She could also see there were other animals present, but couldn't quite make them out due to the distance. However, there was no sign of the Irish Elk.
"Wow...this looks like Yellowstone in winter," Daniel commented.
"Or when we were in Temporary Park..." Daisy added with a hint of edge in her tone.
"Yeah, I agree with you both, though I haven't been to Yellowstone. Any sign of the deer?" Hazel asked.
"Ochi."
"Nope."
Kerato sniffed the air. "Yes."
All the humans eyed him incredulously. All Elasmotherium like Kerato, as well as rhino relatives, can't see. Their vision is quite poor. To combat this, they have to rely on their smell and hearing to scan their surroundings.
"Wait, they are?" Hazel scanned her surroundings, only to find no sign of the horned megafauna.
"They're here. You just need to look," he offhandedly replied.
"Okay, let's get looking."
Kerato snorted, his body pointing towards the mountains. "You two go on ahead. We're going this way." Daisy stammered at that but ultimately fell quiet.
"What? Whatever for?" inquired Daniel.
The wooly rhino snapped, an angry groan escaping his throat. "None of your business!"
The man was taken aback by the outburst. The appalled Hazel stepped in to defend the man she wanted to be romantically involved with. "Hey! It was just a simple question! What's gotten into you? Why are you so-?"
"Look, I'm not in the mood right now," he softened when he heard Hazel's voice. Whether it was because he knew her or for another reason, she didn't know. "There's something I need to check over there."
Daisy stroked his side gently. "Kerato..." she gazed at the other two humans. "I'll stay with him. You two go look for the Megaloceros."
Kerato sighed, his demeanor relaxed a little. "We'll meet back here at sunset. Flower will let you know if we find any trouble."
Hazel understood that. They each had a specialized radio on them so if anything happened, they'd let each other know. She hoped Daisy would help Kerato out with whatever problem he had.
Kerato charged towards the mountains, leaving the confused humans behind to continue the search for the Megaloceros.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Daisy leaned forward, keeping balance with her partner as they charged through the Pleistocene forest. Having already left their friends for this detour, she hoped this would be quick. And she hoped it would go well.
Unknown to Hazel, Daisy was aware of Kerato's increased orneriness. He may not realize it immediately, but she knew what was going on. That was why she requested this mission in the first place. True, she wanted to rescue some Megaloceros for the Park, but that was only a side mission in her book. Kerato needed a way to get back to the Ice Age, and this was the best way to do so without raising suspicions, especially since the only ones that could go with her were Hazel and Daniel.
Daisy was already aware of the status between the two, thanks to prodding the rest of her Crew. She feared bringing them along may make things a little awkward, but at the same time, they needed some alone time together. Mainly, this was for Kerato, but this could be a plus for those two. At least Kerato gave them some space to go off to...wherever they were going.
So...help Kerato and Hazel and Daniel with their relationship. Two conflicts in one board. She just needed to worry about her end.
"Kerato, did you have to be so harsh with them?" she inquired her friend.
"Hruff...sorry. Not in a social mood right now."
"Even with me?" she gently asked.
"No, not you. I just need to be away for a while."
"Okay then..." she replied, still holding onto her concern. "What's over here?"
"I'm not sure. I picked up a scent, but I need to check to make sure it's not something we need to worry about. Are you really into rescuing those giant horned things?"
Daisy went stiff. She stammered as she replied. "Wha-what? Ye-yes! I am! Why?"
He snorted. "Not sure. Something's telling me we're here for another reason. If you are keen on doing that rescue thing, you could have stayed with the others."
"No, I'd rather be with you," she defended. "Someone needs to be here in case you get hurt. That...and those two need some alone time, if you know what I mean."
Kerato rolled his eyes. "Oh, right. Their little 'mating game'."
Knowing Kerato, he didn't want to have any part in helping them, not unless Daisy asked nicely. She scanned the woods, hoping to find a sign of what she's really after. She could have sworn she saw movement in the trees, but it was small. Too small to be considered her target.
She heard something to her right. Daisy looked, but saw nothing. The now uneasy vet continued to help Kerato as they ran through the forest, the base of the mountains getting ever closer.
Little do they know they were being followed.