STQK: EP.7 (All roads lead to the Hatch)

13 Jun, 2026

New to the ongoing blog series called STQK "Would you like to know more?"

Hello there,

We continue with the next episode in the Suldokar's Wake system.

(Content Warning: Violence, Gore, Traumatic Events)

Scene 1

As the group approached the temple doors, the markings on the walls, the scrolls that lay on the center alter were evident of one thing, the Watchful Eye. Ashka knew The New Empire used this state religion as a way to control the masses. Spies tend to be hiding everywhere, she thought.

As Ysah helped drag the humanoid with the hurt side to the closest pew. He finally speaks up:

Onfi(∫⋢≬) is my name. In a delusion rant of pain he then starts to mention someone that was scheming; the equipment was not secured; everything is comprised¹.

Even though Nathal(⇟∲⇟) was keeping a mysterious stance with the newly founded companions, he decided to divulge some secrets about themselves¹ of where they came from and what they endured.

Ashka taking charge of the conversation over Ysah, she became the sociable one. The topic at hand turned to political discourse about the current state of affairs of the planet and their fame¹ as local mercenaries.

Pleasantries were finally exchanged, tension between the party had subsided now that everyone knew a little bit of each other. Laying two pews back, a lonely hunter was overhearing their conservation.

Mumbling in a low voice, the hunter asked, "Willing to help another person in need?"

Ysah coming closer to the individual analyzed and knew² exactly what he needed.

Grumbling in the same tone, the hunter stated, ""You have made this poor sinner very happy indeed." He then offered some coordinates of a secret passageway from the station up ahead as a token.

Scene 2

The sun begins to set through the stain glass windows, when suddenly a door from under the main alter swings open. Taking off guard this change of events, everyone became pensive of what came next.

Turning his head and climbing out of the covered basement, the person³ jumps with surprise. "Woo, thought I was the only person here, cool your jets, I don't work for The Watchful Eye. They left this database hub unguarded, so I decided to hack it to see what I can find. Let's just say this religion is in the business of cloning as well."

Realizing what information this hacker has, he decided to relay some helpful advice if by happenstance he gets caught. A residence is forming against the New Empire, Seek out this faction⁴. But be cautious though, this faction politely repulses⁵ anyone that tries to get into their ranks.

Scene 3

The mountain trail up to the station felt like an eternity and it was pitch black when the group finally reached the summit. An unusual salty⁶ smell blew pass Ysah, he knew there was no ocean nearby, but what would give off such a distinct smell?

As the lights reflected from the station and the snow fell to the ground, a laser perimeter⁷ was visible as a drone flew overhead. Ashka lead the group and was able to run pass⁸ the perimeter and the drones that swarmed the station towards the secret passageway given by the hunter.

Every tool they had tried did not budge the hatch, the hunter that relayed the information didn't mention this. Onfi(∫⋢≬) tried the only thing in his arsenal that could work, his molecular disruption mutation. Unfortunately, it did not succeed⁹ and drained him to almost death's door.

As the mutation failed something in the environment interacted with Onfi's(∫⋢≬) body. It was like the planet did not approve of this mutation and fought in kind. Frantically the head of this humanoid starts banging against the metal hatch. He could not fight¹⁰ the urge to stop. Eventually, Nathal(⇟∲⇟) was able to pull him away grabbing his head mid-bash. When suddenly they hear the hum of drones¹¹ make their position.

Previous