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Marcel passes through a hole in the walls of dead coral that hang from the ice above. The submarine enters into a vast cavern-like space where the coral bursts into life. On all sides, above and below, there is a jungle of plant-like organisms in vivid reds, purples, and oranges. The water is thick with clouds of fine particles. Across the colony, those watching this unfold live all stare in wonder at the bizarre creatures here.
A mass of spindly legs spins rapidly past in a bubble. A creature like three slugs twisted together trails a line of webbing behind it. Hoisting themselves along older lines that stretch across the grotto are what look like scaly, disembodied hands.
"We have to bring back these creatures for study!" Professor Li insists over the comms.
"Perhaps we should study them in their habitat first before we start disrupting it," Marcel responds. "Who knows how delicate their ecosystem might be."
You have two spaces left for samples. You still have enough fuel for the return journey. Fuel is running low. The submarine will have to start making the return journey soon.